10 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Seattle

Seattle has become synonymous with the Pacific Northwest, and it’s rightfully earned a spot among the best cities to visit in the country. Every major city has its nuances, however, and Seattle is no exception. If it’s your first time visiting Seattle, there are a few things you should know that will help you be more prepared for what to expect. Wondering how to get around in Seattle? How about what to pack for the rainy weather? Want to know whether the Space Needle is worth it? You’ll find answers to these and so much more on this list.

These are 10 things you should know before visiting Seattle.

10 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Seattle

Walking through the Olympic Sculpture Park in front of the Space Needle

1. Locals don’t use umbrellas

Want to stick out like a sore thumb? Bring an umbrella to Seattle. While there’s nothing wrong with looking like a tourist (you are one, after all), an umbrella isn’t actually the most practical tool during the rainy season here. Since the rain in Seattle is really more of a mist, you’ll be much better off with a good raincoat and some waterproof shoes.

2. Rideshare apps are going to cost you

Since 2020, the prices on rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have skyrocketed in Seattle. Surge pricing is common, meaning a trip to or from the airport can cost you upwards of $90. There are plenty of public transit options in Seattle that are much more cost-effective (including the Link Light Rail, which will get you from the airport to downtown Seattle for just a few dollars).

A Seattle street under the Fremont Bridge

3. The streets are steep

Seattle is a city built on top of a city. After the original town was all but destroyed in a fire (the remnants of which you can still visit on the Seattle Underground Tour), Seattle was rebuilt overtop of the ruins. As a result, the streets of the city center are remarkably steep in some areas. While much of Seattle is pretty walkable, exploring downtown on foot will leave your calves burning, so plan accordingly.

4. Maybe skip the Space Needle

A trip to the top of the Space Needle is, unabashedly, a tourist trap. If experiencing the rotating observation deck is a bucket list item for you, by all means, go for it! If not, there are a couple of other observation decks in Seattle that are less touristy and less expensive. Head to the Smith Tower Observatory in Seattle’s oldest skyscraper for panoramic views, a speakeasy-style bar, and an open-air observation deck. Alternatively, hit up the Sky View Observatory for views from Seattle’s tallest skyscraper. Don’t want to pay to go to the top? There’s also a Starbucks on the 40th floor that will only cost you the price of your coffee.

5. Speaking of things to skip, add the original Starbucks to that list

The original Starbucks at Pike Place Market will always have a line of tourists out the door. Unless you’re a major fan of Starbucks, the wait isn’t really worth your time. This location isn’t any different than a regular Starbucks. If you still want to do something Starbucks-themed on your visit, hit up the Reserve Roastery. It’s a much more unique and immersive experience.

If you want a more authentic sampling of a Seattle roast, I recommend visiting any of the numerous independent coffee shops instead. Seattle runs on coffee, so you’re likely to find some pretty much anywhere you are, and many are open late.

6. Eco-friendliness is ultra important

Seattle is a pretty progressive city, and this certainly applies to its stance on environmentalism. The city basically shuts down when it snows because they refuse to salt the roads (they don’t want that rubbish running into the Sound). The city has also banned plastic bags, and compostable goods are becoming the norm. Also, don’t be surprised if your AirBnB has strict recycling guidelines – these are set by the city as well.

Sitting on the Freemont Troll in Seattle

7. The Seattle Freeze is real

While being environmentally friendly is a big deal in Seattle, that friendliness doesn’t necessarily translate to the social norm here. Don’t get it twisted – Seattlites typically aren’t rude. They just don’t want to be your new best friend. This social iciness has become known as the Seattle Freeze, so don’t be offended if the locals seem like they would rather just keep to themselves.

8. Homelessness is prevalent in many areas

The number of people in Seattle who don’t have homes is a devastating issue. Unfortunately, the impacts of COVID-19 have only made things worse. This is something you’ll see in some of the areas you’re likely to visit during your trip, particularly in neighborhoods like Downtown, Pioneer Square, and Belltown.

9. Not every building has AC

The Pacific Northwest is known for its idyllic summers, so many homes don’t come standard equipped with air conditioning. Even many small businesses don’t have it, so they’ll just shut down if it gets too hot. If you’re booking an AirBnB in the summer, this is definitely something you’ll want to take note of as heatwaves have become more common in Seattle.

Olympic Mountains from Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park

10. The real magic of Seattle is outside the city

One of the things locals love most about Seattle is its proximity to some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. Seattle abounds with day trip and weekend road trip opportunities! The outdoor and adventure culture thrives in Seattle, and just a short drive outside of the city will show you why. If you have the time, be sure to explore some of the other areas Washington has to offer. The San Juan Islands, mountain towns like Leavenworth, or any of Washington’s three national parks are all great places to start.

Even in a city as widely known as Seattle, there can be some surprises. Having this info in your back pocket will help set you up for an amazing trip to the PNW. Seattle truly is something special!

Have questions about this list? Let me know in the comments below!