Waterfront

Explore

Say hello to sea otters, wave at harbor seals, and watch jellyfish float by at the Seattle Aquarium (1483 Alaskan Way), which works to preserve and protect local marine life through education and conservation, and don’t miss the aquarium’s spectacular new Ocean Pavilion, which is slated to open by late summer. Then ride The Seattle Great Wheel (1301 Alaskan Way) to heights of 175 feet for a seagull’s-eye view of the Sound, the downtown skyline, and the Olympic Mountains in the distance. From the neighborhood’s bustling piers, you can embark on a thrilling excursion around scenic Puget Sound—consider a sunset sail with Sailing Seattle (1201 Alaskan Way) or a narrated catamaran tour with Salish Sea Tours (1301 Alaskan Way).

Eat and Drink

It’s appropriate that Seattle’s colorful waterfront boasts several acclaimed seafood restaurants, among them Elliott’s Oyster House (1201 Alaskan Way), a fixture on Pier 56 for more than half a century; Anthony’s Pier 66 (2201 Alaskan Way), which is acclaimed for its Dungeness crab-and-corn chowder and flavorful king salmon entrees; and sophisticated Six Seven Restaurant (2411 Alaskan Way, Pier 67), with its dazzling views. For a hearty breakfast, head to airy Café Opla (2200 Alaskan Way), which specializes in Vietnamese, Hawaiian, and Filipino breakfast skillets. On Pier 54, the Seattle-based chainlet Great State Burger (1001 Alaskan Way) serves up juicy cheeseburgers and vegan patties along with organic malted milkshakes.

Shop

Pick up the perfect local souvenir at Simply Seattle (1001 Alaskan Way), where shelves are stocked with everything from Seattle-themed sweaters and totes to mugs and sports gear. You’ll find a whimsical array of novelties and toys at Pirate’s Plunder (Pier 57, 1301 Alaskan Way), which is part of the family-friendly Miner’s Landing amusement center. Seattle Shop at 56 (1201 Alaskan Way) carries vintage sports jerseys and Grey’s Anatomy apparel along with colorful magnets, stickers, and postcards.