Summers in Seattle are simply glorious. The city of Seattle is a gateway to lush forests dripping with ferns, famous volcanoes with dramatic views, beaches and rivers to keep cool, innovative eats for foodies, and a hip music scene. If you are looking to experience Seattle beyond the tourist hot spots, keep reading for five ways to experience summer in Seattle like a local.
Float Away on a WA State Ferry
The Washington State Ferry (WSF) system is one of the best ways to experience Seattle and the surrounding Puget Sound region during the summertime. Named one of the most scenic ferry rides by Smithsonian Magazine, Washington State Ferries offers what many consider the best views of the Seattle skyline as well as the Pacific Northwest’s majestic mountains. As the largest public ferry system in the United States, WSF offers ten or more ferry routes to choose from around the Seattle area. Board the Seattle to Bainbridge Island ferry for sweeping views of the Seattle waterfront and skyline, the Vashon Island ferry route to snap a photo of Mount Rainier, and the San Juan Island ferry route to enjoy a commanding view of Mount Baker. If you are looking for a fun and unique way to spend a summer day in Seattle, riding the ferry is a must.
Behold The Wonder of Waterfalls
If you’re looking for a breathtaking natural wonder to explore during the summer months, look no further than Seattle’s very own waterfalls. Get ready to explore some of Seattle’s best waterfalls with our top three Seattle waterfall recommendations!
The most accessible waterfall in the Seattle area is the well-known, roaring Snoqualmie Falls which can be viewed from a roadside parking area. It is also one of the tallest waterfalls in the Seattle area at 268 feet. Franklin Falls is well-loved by local families as the 2.0 mile round-trip scenic trail follows along the south fork of the Snoqualmie River until it reaches the 135 foot waterfall. For an easy going half-day excursion from Seattle, a 2.6 miles round-trip hike through a quintessential Pacific Northwest forest ends with a view of the stunning 135 foot Twin Falls.
If you are seeking the ultimate waterfall experience, be sure to check out our beginner-friendly Seattle Canyoneering Trips where you can experience the magic of rappelling under a waterfall.
Savor Fresh Fruits, Vegetables and More at Seattle Farmers Markets
If you catch a glimpse of someone carrying a bouquet of wildflowers wrapped in white paper, you will know that you are near one of Seattle’s farmer’s markets. If you’re looking for the best farmers markets to visit in Seattle during the summer, look no further than the Seattle farmer’s markets on our list. These markets are all located in distinctive Seattle neighborhoods and offer a wide variety of fresh, local produce.
For the hippest Seattle’s Farmers Market, look no further than the beloved Capitol Hill Farmers Market which offers a wide selection of fare to nosh on after a night out in Seattle. Located in one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the US, the Columbia City Farmers Market offers a unique selection of produce and food vendors. The West Seattle Farmers Market pairs well with a weekend visit to Alki Beach where stunning views of the Olympic Mountains await.
So, if you’re looking for the best farmers markets to visit in Seattle during the summer, be sure to check out one of the farmer’s markets listed above. You’re sure to find everything you’re looking for, and you might even discover some new favorite foods or locally made product!
Soak Up The Sounds of Summer At An Seattle Outdoor Concert Series
During the summer, Seattle comes alive with a variety of outdoor concert series. From the big names such as Sarah McLachlan, Bonnie Raitt, and Josh Groban, to local up-and-comers – think Macklemore and Brandi Carlisle in the early 2000’s – there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These concerts are a great way to experience live music in a relaxed setting, and they’re a perfect way to enjoy the summer weather.
Pack a picnic and enjoy a more relaxed vibe at Woodland Park Zoo’s ZooTunes, Chateau St. Michelle Winery’s Summer Concerts, or Marymoor Park Concert Series. For a more traditional concert experience, check out the White River Amphitheater. Last but not least, Seattleites make the 2.5 hour trek east to the Gorge Amphitheater to jam out while watching the sun set over the Columbia River.
Whether you’re a fan of rock, pop, hip-hop, or anything in between, you’ll be able to find a concert series that’s perfect for you. And, with so many shows to choose from, you’re sure to find one that fits into your busy summer schedule. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy the music!
Elevate Your Ice Cream Game
There’s no better way to cool down on a hot summer day than with a delicious scoop of ice cream. And in Seattle, there are plenty of great places to get your fix. Whether you’re looking for classic or unique flavors, dairy-based or vegan, there’s a Seattle ice cream shop for you.
Some of the best ice cream shops in Seattle include Full Tilt Ice Cream which offers pinball, arcade games, dairy and vegan traditional and creative ice cream flavors, Sweet Alchemy Ice Creamery for their small batch, organic, and locally sourced gourmet ice cream, Molly Moon’s mouth-watering flavors and convenient locations and Frankie & Jo’s for their 100% vegan, plant-based, and gluten-free ice cream. Whatever your taste, you’re sure to find the perfect ice cream in Seattle this summer.
We hope these suggestions provide you with inspiration for your time in Seattle, whether you are a local or you are visiting Seattle. Summer is a vibrant season in Seattle and well worth experiencing. We hope to see you on your visit to Seattle soon!
Learn more about Seattle Waterfall Canyoneering Trips offered by Get In The Wild.