Some people think of Seattle as a dangerous, dirty city. That might be because of national politics or stereotypes about the city. As someone who lives in Seattle, I don’t think the perception could be further from the truth.
So yes, to answer immediately, Seattle is safe to visit and travel to.
Now, like every large metro area, there are unhoused individuals and those with undiagnosed and untreated mental illness. But it doesn’t feel overwhelming, nor should you be overly concerned while exploring downtown Seattle or the Greater Seattle area.
But since Seattle is safe, you can do so many fun and interesting things around the city! We’re incredibly diverse, smart, and active, making for an incredible community to be around. Plus, due to our diversity, our food scene is rock solid!
How to Explore Around Seattle
Is Seattle Safe?
Yes, Seattle is safe. If you’re worried about walking around in the middle of the day or in the evening after drinks, you’ll be just as safe and secure as in any other big city. In my three years of living in Seattle, I’ve had zero incidents, and I doubt I ever will.
Crime has fallen for a few years, and the trend should continue. The last thing you should worry about is “Is Seattle safe.” Instead, worry about, “How am I going to see all the cool things in Seattle!“
After steadily rising for most of the past decade, incidents of violent crime downtown fell for a second consecutive year in 2023. Counter to perceptions, downtown Seattle has made significant progress dealing with violent crime. From a peak in 2021, violent crime downtown has declined to the lowest point since 2018 (excluding the pandemic impact of 2020). Notably, the downtown core saw even steeper declines in the amount of violent crime than downtown as a whole.
According to a Gallup poll conducted in July 2023 with a random sample of adults in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, respondents considered Seattle the third-safest city in the country. However, their overall perception of Seattle’s safety declined from the previous survey. The perceptions of downtown as unsafe do not reflect current-day reality but do highlight the challenge of getting more visitors and office workers to return.
Now that we have that out of the way, let’s talk about all the fun things you can do around Seattle!
1. Take a Ferry Ride or Habor Cruise
Escape the city’s hustle and hop on a ferry. Whether you’re heading to Bainbridge Island or Bremerton, you’ll soak up stunning views of Seattle’s skyline, the Olympic Mountains, and Puget Sound.
2. Watch Sunset at Kerry Park
Kerry Park offers one of the best sunset spots in the city. Watch the colors paint the sky as they reflect off the city skyline with Mount Rainier in the distance — perfect for that iconic Seattle photo.
3. Go to the Aquarium
Explore the vibrant marine life of the Pacific Northwest at the Seattle Aquarium. From playful otters to colorful jellyfish, this waterfront spot brings you closer to the beauty beneath the surface.
4. Walk around the Washington Arboretum
Wander through the Washington Park Arboretum for a serene break from city life. The trails lead you through a variety of gardens, and each season offers something new—spring blooms or autumn’s colorful leaves.
5. Check out the Woodland Park Zoo
Take a journey around the world at the Woodland Park Zoo. From African savannas to tropical rainforests, this zoo’s naturalistic habitats make it a great spot for all ages. Get your ticket here.
6. Get a Drink at the Space Needle
Sip on your drink while enjoying 360-degree views of Seattle from the top of the Space Needle. It’s an iconic way to experience the city from new heights — literally.
7. Go to a Sporting Event (Sounders, Mariners, Seahawks, Storm)
Seattle’s sports culture is electric! Whether it’s a Sounders soccer game, Mariners baseball, or a Seahawks NFL showdown, you’ll feel the pulse of the city cheering along with thousands of fans.
8. Get Yummy Sushi
Seattle’s proximity to the Pacific means fresh sushi is everywhere. Don’t miss out on a sushi experience while you’re here—whether it’s a sushi-go-round or an upscale spot, the flavors will not disappoint.
9. Go Wine Tasting or to a Brewery
Seattle’s wine scene is popping, with nearby wineries offering the best from Washington’s wine country. Or, hit one of the city’s many breweries and enjoy local craft beer—there’s always something new on tap.
10. Kayak on Lake Washington or Lake Union
Get on the water and experience Seattle from a different angle by kayaking on Lake Washington or Lake Union. Paddle by houseboats, spot wildlife, and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
11. Hop in a Floatplane for an Aerial View
For the ultimate adventure, hop on a floatplane for an aerial view of Seattle. From above, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the city, Mount Rainier, and the sprawling waters of Puget Sound.
12. See the Seattle Glassblowing Studio
Watch live glassblowing demonstrations at the Seattle Glassblowing Studio, where local artists turn molten glass into stunning works of art. It’s an up-close look at a fascinating craft.
13. Go Whale Watching
Seattle’s a prime spot for whale watching! Head out on a boat and keep your eyes peeled for orcas, humpbacks, and gray whales — especially in the summer months when they’re more active.
14. Spend time at Alki Beach or Golden Gardens
Relax by the water at Alki Beach or Golden Gardens. Whether you’re watching the sunset, having a bonfire, or just soaking up the coastal vibes, it’s a peaceful escape within the city.
15. Rent a car and go to one of the National Parks
I’ll be honest with ya’ll. I’m not living in Seattle to do any of the above. I live in Seattle because it’s a great home base from which to explore the outdoors.
With three national parks — Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic — plus a never-ending array of hiking in beautiful scenery, it’s easily one of the most stunning places to hike and camp in the United States.
16. Pike Place Market
It’s a tourist trap, if we’re being honest, but still, it’s a cool place to walk around if you’re in the area. I wouldn’t say you need to do it or you’re missing out on anything substantial, though.