Seattle Center Tours and Activities

Seattle Center featuring modern architecture
Seattle Center featuring modern architecture
Seattle Center which includes modern architecture, signage and a city
Seattle Center which includes night scenes and modern architecture
Seattle Center which includes street scenes, a square or plaza and a fountain


A product of the 1962 World Fair, this cultural precinct is where sports, theatre, film and fine dining come together in Seattle.

Seattle’s famous cultural and entertainment precinct is a must for any visitor to the city. The Seattle Centre is home to many local major sporting teams, and some of the key performing arts institutions are also based within the large complex. Throw in some of Seattle’s major cultural institutions, a range of upscale restaurants and bars and a choreographed water show, and you’ll see why its easy to keep coming back to the Seattle Centre.

Covering more than 74 acres (30 hectares) of the popular Lower Queen Anne neighbourhood, the Seattle Centre was originally built for the 1962 World Fair. The centre is immediately recognizable from afar because it features the 605-foot- (182-metre-) tall Space Needle, a tower which has become a symbol of the city.

Catch an ice hockey match or watch a Women’s National Basketball Association game at KeyArena. The 17,000-person-capacity venue also hosts boxing and music concerts and is one of the largest arenas in the state. Learn about the local history at the Pacific Science Centre, watch a movie at one of two IMAX theatres or see 20 spurts of water perform in time with a musical show at the International Fountain.

The centre is home to the Seattle Shakespeare Company, the Pacific Northwest Ballet and the Seattle Opera, who use the many theatres and halls in the complex each week. Learn about the best contemporary pop culture has to offer at the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), or take the elevator to the top of the Space Needle for amazing views across Seattle. Ground level dining is available at the lively Seattle Centre Armoury, along with a number of bars offering attractive discounts during their Happy Hour.

The Seattle Centre is located just north of the city centre and can be reached on foot, by bus, monorail or car. Ample parking is available in the area for a small fee. The Seattle Centre is open daily and entry is free. Note that many organizations and shows housed in the centre do charge admission fees.

Plan a trip to see Seattle Center

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Sleep Inn - SeaTac Airport
1 Hotel Seattle
Lotte Hotel Seattle

Tours & day trips

See all 177 activities

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 38 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 38 activities

Cruises & boat tours

See all 20 activities

Classes & workshops

See all 8 activities

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Seattle Center

Mediterranean Inn

Mediterranean Inn

3 out of 5
425 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle, WA
Mediterranean Inn
Hyatt Regency Seattle

Hyatt Regency Seattle

4 out of 5
808 Howell St, Seattle, WA
Hyatt Regency Seattle
The Belltown Inn

The Belltown Inn

2.5 out of 5
2301 Third Avenue, Seattle, WA
The Belltown Inn
The Paramount Hotel

The Paramount Hotel

3.5 out of 5
724 Pine St, Seattle, WA
The Paramount Hotel
Coast Seattle Downtown Hotel by APA

Coast Seattle Downtown Hotel by APA

4 out of 5
1301 6th Avenue, Seattle, WA
Coast Seattle Downtown Hotel by APA
Executive Hotel Pacific

Executive Hotel Pacific

3 out of 5
400 Spring St, Seattle, WA
Executive Hotel Pacific
Mayflower Park Hotel

Mayflower Park Hotel

4 out of 5
405 Olive Way, Seattle, WA
Mayflower Park Hotel
citizenM Seattle South Lake Union

citizenM Seattle South Lake Union

4 out of 5
201 Westlake Avenue North, Seattle, WA
citizenM Seattle South Lake Union
Hyatt House Seattle/Downtown

Hyatt House Seattle/Downtown

3 out of 5
201 Fifth Avenue North, Seattle, WA
Hyatt House Seattle/Downtown
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Seattle Center

At Seattle Center, visitors can immerse themselves in a vibrant mix of art, theatre, and shopping. For the adventurous, there's the thrill of skydiving and the scenic beauty of kayak tours, offering unique ways to explore the stunning surroundings. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences or outdoor excitement, Seattle Center has something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

Pike Place Market, a vibrant public market 1.4km from Seattle Center, offers a unique shopping experience with local crafts and fresh produce. Westlake Center, also 1.4km away, features various shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, check out Nordstrom, located 1.6km away, for upscale fashion.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at T-Mobile Park, where you can enjoy a lively sporting event. For music lovers, Showbox SoDo offers fantastic concerts that elevate your spirits. For a tranquil escape, head to Seward Park, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature.

Adventure

At the UW Waterfront Activities Center, indulge in exhilarating water sports, located 4.8km from Seattle Center, offering a vibrant outdoor atmosphere. Camp Long, situated 8.0km away, immerses you in nature with its adventurous outdoor vibes. For skiing enthusiasts, Mini Mountain, 14.5km from the center, provides a thrilling indoor ski experience.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Paramount Theatre, just 1.6km away, offering a romantic cultural atmosphere. For adventure, ride the Seattle Great Wheel, also 1.6km away. Don’t miss The Crocodile, half 1.6km away, where you can enjoy live music and a lively city vibe.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Seattle Center

Seattle Center offers a vibrant mix of attractions, including urban parks, art museums, and historic churches, perfect for culture enthusiasts and families alike. Visitors can explore the heart of Seattle while enjoying nearby points of interest like the Seattle Stadium and Convention Center. Whether you're seeking art, green spaces, or family-friendly experiences, Seattle Center is an ideal destination for a memorable vacation.

  • Space Needle: Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Seattle from this iconic 605-foot modern tower. Just 161m from Seattle Center, the Space Needle offers a unique blend of contemporary architecture and vibrant city energy, perfect for capturing stunning photos and enjoying the skyline.
  • Seattle Waterfront: Located 1.6km from Seattle Center, the Seattle Waterfront invites you to explore its beautiful beaches and scenic views. Stroll along the promenade, indulge in fresh seafood, or take a ferry ride to experience the charm of this bustling harbor.
  • Seattle Convention Center Arch Building: Situated 1.6km from Seattle Center, this striking event venue showcases impressive architecture and a professional atmosphere. Ideal for business gatherings and conferences, the Arch Building reflects Seattle's dynamic corporate culture.

Best time to go to Seattle Center

The best time to visit Seattle Center is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.3°F (4.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March43.9°F (6.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July67.1°F (19.5°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August67.5°F (19.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November44.2°F (6.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December39.2°F (4.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Seattle Center

When planning your visit to Seattle Center, consider traveling between December and February for the lowest accommodation rates, with Mondays being the most affordable days to stay. Avoid peak summer months from June to August when prices rise. To save further, use Expedia to compare hotel options, focusing on eco-certified accommodations, and sort results by price to find the best deals. Additionally, booking package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities can lead to significant savings. Keep an eye out for exclusive discounts to maximize your budget while enjoying the city.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Seattle Center are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Seattle Center is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Seattle Center is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Seattle Centre with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia