Seattle, the Emerald City, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, thriving tech scene, and vibrant culture. As a trusted broker, Stephanie Stanford understands the importance of showcasing the unique features that make Seattle such an attractive place to live. While many visitors flock to the area’s iconic landmarks like the Space Needle or Pike Place Market, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. In this blog, we'll delve into the lesser-known treasures of Seattle, unveiling a side of the city that might just surprise you.
FREMONT TROLL
North 36th Street, Troll Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
Tucked away beneath the Aurora Bridge lies the whimsical Fremont Troll, a quirky sculpture that has become an emblem of the neighborhood. Created by local artists, this gigantic troll clutching a Volkswagen Beetle in its hand is truly a sight to behold. It's the perfect spot for a unique photo opportunity that will leave your friends amazed.
GAS WORKS PARK
2101 N Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103
Situated on the shores of Lake Union, Gas Works Park is one of the best secret spots in Seattle. Gas Works Park combines industrial history with natural beauty. Once an oil gasification plant, this urban park now offers stunning views of the city skyline, along with remnants of the old machinery. Pack a picnic and enjoy the open spaces, kite-flying, or a relaxing walk along the shoreline.
DISCOVERY PARK
Seattle, WA 98199
Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Seattle with a visit to Discovery Park. Spanning over 500 acres, this natural oasis boasts numerous hiking trails, gorgeous meadows, and panoramic vistas of Puget Sound. Stroll through the forests, spot amazing wildlife, and take a moment to appreciate the tranquility and serenity of this hidden gem.
GEORGETOWN ART ATTACK
Various venues throughout Seattle
For art enthusiasts, Georgetown Art Attack is a must-visit. On the second Saturday of every month, the neighborhood comes alive with a vibrant arts scene at several unique venues throughout the area. Explore the galleries, artist studios, and eclectic boutiques while enjoying live music, food trucks, and a lively atmosphere that showcases Seattle's artistic spirit.
KLONDIKE GOLD RUSH NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK
319 2nd Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104
Delve into Seattle's rich history with a trip to the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, another favorite secret spot in Seattle. Located in the historic Pioneer Square neighborhood, this unique park offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's role in the gold rush of the late 1800s. Explore specialized exhibits, watch informative films, and join a guided tour to fully immerse yourself in this captivating era.
CHIHULY GARDEN AND GLASS
305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
Nestled next to the iconic Space Needle, the museum at Chihuly Garden and Glass is a true visual feast. Displaying the awe-inspiring glass art of renowned artist Dale Chihuly, this exciting museum showcases his vibrant and intricate sculptures against the backdrop of a stunning outdoor garden. Prepare to be enchanted by the magical interplay of light, color, and form and feel inspired. Watch a live glass demonstration or Q&A session, catch a craft cocktail at The Bar, explore the bookstore, or take an audio tour of the fantastic exhibits on display.
VOLUNTEER PARK CONSERVATORY
1400 E Galer St, Seattle, WA 98112
Escape to a tropical paradise within the city at Volunteer Park Conservatory. This Victorian-era greenhouse highlights a diverse collection of plants from around the world, offering a tranquil oasis even on those rainy Seattle days. Marvel at the exotic blooms, explore the various themed rooms, and immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of this hidden gem in Seattle.
WATERFALL GARDEN PARK
219 2nd Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104
Tucked away in Pioneer Square, Waterfall Garden Park is a peaceful retreat that might go unnoticed by passersby. Step inside to discover a hidden oasis, complete with a 22-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Take a moment to unwind, listen to the soothing sound of the cascading water, and enjoy a moment of respite from the city's hustle and bustle.
KERRY PARK
211 W Highland Dr, Seattle, WA 98119
For breathtaking panoramic views of Seattle's skyline, head to Kerry Park in the Queen Anne neighborhood. This small but notable park offers a picture-perfect vantage point, especially during sunset when the city lights come alive. Capture unforgettable photographs of the Space Needle, the distant Mount Rainier, and the downtown skyline in all its glory.
THE CENTER FOR WOODEN BOATS
1010 Valley St, Seattle, WA 98109
Immerse yourself in Seattle's maritime history at The Center for Wooden Boats, located on the shores of Lake Union. This living museum showcases a collection of beautifully crafted wooden boats, and visitors can even take a guided tour or rent a boat to explore the lake. Learn about traditional boat-building techniques and the vital role of boating in Seattle's past and present.
SEATTLE PINBALL MUSEUM
508 Maynard Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104
Indulge your inner child and embrace nostalgia at the Seattle Pinball Museum. Located in the International District, this interactive museum features over 50 classic pinball machines and arcade games from various eras. Pay a flat fee to enjoy unlimited play, reliving the excitement of arcade gaming while discovering the evolution of pinball machines.
ALKI BEACH
2665 Alki Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116
Escape to a beach paradise right within the city at Alki Beach in West Seattle. With stunning views of the downtown skyline and the Olympic Mountains, this sandy shoreline is perfect for a leisurely stroll, sunbathing, or picnicking with friends and family. Grab a bike to explore the paved path or indulge in water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding.
READY TO GET STARTED?
Seattle is a city full of surprises, offering much more than meets the eye. By exploring these hidden gems in Seattle, you can unlock a whole new perspective on the Emerald City. From whimsical sculptures to enchanting parks, Seattle's lesser-known treasures are waiting to be discovered. So, whether you're a resident hoping to uncover new adventures in your city or a visitor seeking an authentic Seattle experience, don't skip these secret spots. If you’re jumping into Seattle real estate, look to expert brokers Stephanie and Matt Stanford of Stanford Group for top-tier guidance at every point.
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock