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Seattle, Washington Family Weekend Vacation
22
items Planning for a short trip to Seattle, Washington? We are! Check out this list for some options based on several favorites for fun and food for families, especially those traveling with a teen.
Map
Sections
3
Space Needle Area
Pike Place
Everett Area
Space Needle Area
The Space Needle is certainly striking against the Seattle skyline, and fortunately it is also surrounded by quite a few family-friendly attractions that might be perfect for your visit.
The iconic Space Needle is a must-visit for first timers and families visiting Seattle. Built in 1962, the needle offers 360-degree views of the diverse Seattle area.
Space Needle
The Museum of Pop Culture (MOPOP) features a myriad of pop culture artifacts including various music genres, fantasy, science fiction, gaming, fashion and more. With over 140,000 square feet to explore, the museum's FAQ recommends allotting at least ...
Museum of Pop Culture
If you have younger children or are more interested in science than pop culture, your family may prefer the Pacific Science Center (there is also a children's museum in the area, so be sure to check that one out and compare if it fits your family's n...
The museum features a butterfly exhibit, planetarium, IMAX theater, dinosaur exhibit and much more.
The museum features a butterfly exhibit, planetarium, IMAX theater, dinosaur exhibit and much more.
Pacific Science Center
Pike Place
I had heard of the Pike Place Fish Market and the “original” Starbucks, but until I began researching for our trip, I had never heard of the overall Public Market Center. Wow. 😮 This section certainly won't cover the HUNDREDS of offerings at the Mar...
I had heard of the Pike Place Fish Market and the “original” Starbucks, but until I began researching for our trip, I had never heard of the overall Public Market Center. Wow. 😮 A farmer’s market/craft market/eatery/shopping extravaganza with entert...
Pike Place Market
Chocolate covered cherries may be my favorite candy of all time, so when browsing the market’s offerings, this was the first shop I knew was a definite stop for me!
Locally sourced cherries and so many offerings make this store promising, too, for s...
Chukar Cherries - Pike Place Market
We are exceptionally lucky to have a great candy shop in our hometown, but I can never resist these places. Plus, I cannot tell you the last time I had a Slush Puppie, but I absolutely *need* one now!
If only vacation were tomorrow…
Old Fashioned Candy Store - Pike Place Market
I saw the sign, read the name, and just had to see what “Ugly Baby” is all about. I read the name aloud and laughed, and both my husband and teen son were like, “what?!”
So I read aloud again from their “About Us” page:
“Rosalie & Douglas Gale ...
Ugly Baby - Pike Place Market
Ever since he was little, my son has been obsessed with maps. Even if he weren’t, this shop is just niche enough that I have to check it out!
Just read the description at the attached link; it sounds way too fun.
Metsker Maps - Pike Place Market
A used book store that specializes in vintage and out-of-print books? Sounds like a spot we could easily get stuck in for quite some time.
Are there too many book shops on this list? Absolutely not!
Lamplight Books - Pike Place Market
Comics, and board games, and movie scripts?! Oh my!
This shop’s description tells readers it is the oldest comic shop in the WORLD?!
These geeks are adding it to the not-to-be-missed list.
Golden Age Collectables - Pike Place Market
I mean, it’s a record shop. In Seattle.
And they specialize in rare LPs and 45s?
Heck, yes!
Holy Cow Records - Pike Place Market
This place sounds absolutely AMAZING!
When I was little, we had an awesome novelty/party shop called Yankee Trader in my hometown of Columbus, Ohio, and I can’t TELL you how bummed I was when it went out of business.
And as someone who remembers s...
Orange Dracula - Pike Place Market
As the third oldest magic shop in the United States, magicians and magic enthusiasts have been visiting and shopping at Market Magic shop since 1973.
In addition to memorabilia of famous musicians and quite a few magic and gag items, the shop also features Tarot cards, yo-yos and juggling equipment.
I could use a new set of juggling bean bags to brush up on my skills, and I know my son will love checking out the gags he may like to purchase to fool friends and family members back home.
Grandparents, consider yourselves WARNED!
In addition to memorabilia of famous musicians and quite a few magic and gag items, the shop also features Tarot cards, yo-yos and juggling equipment.
I could use a new set of juggling bean bags to brush up on my skills, and I know my son will love checking out the gags he may like to purchase to fool friends and family members back home.
Grandparents, consider yourselves WARNED!
Market Magic Shop - Pike Place Market
Fish flying through the air definitely sounds a spectacle to behold! I imagine my camera will be snapping more than a few shots at this famous location.
Perhaps I will need to make a “shots of Seattle” photo list when we return…
Seattle Fish Market | Fresh Seafood Delivery | Pike Place Fish
I have mixed thoughts on this, but it's a popular spot. :D
So gross. So cool.
I think my son will be grossed out, but seems like a thing we might regret skipping.
Have you been?
The Gum Wall - Pike Place Market
Technically, the original Starbucks opened a bit down the street in 1971; however, in 1975 it moved to its current locale and is still going strong. So strong, in fact, it sounds like there’s a long line to get in throughout the entire day unless you...
Will we line up to order a coffee or purchase some swag? Maybe?
Judging by all the other places I’d like to visit at the market, however, it may just be a walk by and take a photo sort of situation.
Besides, Seattle has NO shortage of great coffee options, so I'm leaning toward a special drink I can't get at home.
I *have* heard great things about the Starbucks Reserve that it isn't too far away, and if we have extra time when we're there, I think we might just stop there instead.
You can find the information about that option here: https://www.starbucksreserve.com/locations/seattle-roastery .
Will we line up to order a coffee or purchase some swag? Maybe?
Judging by all the other places I’d like to visit at the market, however, it may just be a walk by and take a photo sort of situation.
Besides, Seattle has NO shortage of great coffee options, so I'm leaning toward a special drink I can't get at home.
I *have* heard great things about the Starbucks Reserve that it isn't too far away, and if we have extra time when we're there, I think we might just stop there instead.
You can find the information about that option here: https://www.starbucksreserve.com/locations/seattle-roastery .
The First Starbucks - Pike Place Market
I think this might be my chosen spot for coffee in Seattle. Unique, local, and just way more hip.
My son doesn’t drink coffee or relayed drinks, but if yours does, I think you’d score big parent points for this stop!
Ghost Alley Espresso
If you truly want to celebrate the history of the market, and you're a supporter of women-owned businesses, Three Girls Bakery is a stop you must make on your visit to Pike Place.
Founded in 1912, it is the oldest “commercial business” in the market, according to Pike Place Market's own site. Not only this, but also they were the first women-owned licensed business in Seattle!
Sweet treats include various pastries and cookies they make nearby, and they also feature a variety of breads from bakeries around the city.
Finally, they donate their leftovers each day.
If we're going to stand in line for a Seattle first at Pike Place, I think it will likely be this one!
Founded in 1912, it is the oldest “commercial business” in the market, according to Pike Place Market's own site. Not only this, but also they were the first women-owned licensed business in Seattle!
Sweet treats include various pastries and cookies they make nearby, and they also feature a variety of breads from bakeries around the city.
Finally, they donate their leftovers each day.
If we're going to stand in line for a Seattle first at Pike Place, I think it will likely be this one!
Three Girls Bakery - Pike Place Market
With its combination of history, waterfront views from tables on three separate floors of the market, and the availability of pancakes (one of the food items our son actually loves), if we choose a more “sit down” restaurant affair when we visit, it ...
Apparently they also have seating overlooking the marketplace, and the restaurant has been called the best “people-watching spot in Seattle.”
Definitely sounds like fun.
Apparently they also have seating overlooking the marketplace, and the restaurant has been called the best “people-watching spot in Seattle.”
Definitely sounds like fun.
Almost Classy Since 1957
Everett Area
About one hour north of the city, Everett has several stops that may just make it a must-visit experience for our time in Seattle.
Our son is a military vehicles buff, so this may be a must-see for our family. Many of the machines are actually in working order, which makes this museum an interactive experience unlike many others. Trip Advisor suggests allotting 1-2 hours for thi...
Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum, Everett
Huge Funko shop at the location of the original headquarters (the warehouse has now moved out of state).
Funko HQ Store (2025) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Reviews)
Will add info.
Your Guide to Everett's Jetty Island | Everett Tourism, WA