✓ Updated February 2026

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Seattle, USA: May or Jun 2026

Seattle, USA travel destination - scenic view of Pike Place Market's Dawn Patrol during ideal visiting season — Image: Seattle Center as night falls.jpg viaWikimedia Commons

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Quick Answer:

For an elegant Seattle experience, aim for the summer months of July and August, when the city truly shines. Imagine crisp mornings giving way to sun-drenched afternoons, perfect for exploring Pike Place Market's vibrant stalls or enjoying a leisurely ferry ride across Puget Sound with stunning mountain vistas. The late spring, particularly June, also offers a delightful prelude with blooming gardens and fewer crowds. While the fall brings a cozy charm with its misty mornings and rich, earthy colors, and the winter months offer a quiet, introspective beauty, the peak of sunshine and outdoor enjoyment is undeniably in summer.

Best Months to Visit:

MayJunJulAugSepOct

Airport Code

SEA

Coordinates

47.61°, -122.33°

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Top Things to Do

Pike Place Market's Dawn Patrol

Beat the crowds and witness the market's vibrant energy come alive as vendors set up their stalls. Grab a coffee from the original Starbucks and watch the fishmongers toss their wares, a true Seattle spectacle, before the midday rush.

Chihuly Garden and Glass After Dark

Experience the dazzling glass sculptures of Dale Chihuly illuminated under the Seattle night sky. The vibrant colors and intricate forms are even more magical when bathed in soft, dramatic lighting, offering a unique perspective on this artistic marvel.

Discovery Park's Coastal Trails

Escape the city bustle in Seattle's largest urban park, offering miles of hiking trails through forests and meadows leading to dramatic bluffs overlooking Puget Sound. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and seals, especially during the quieter weekday mornings.

Fremont Troll's Underbelly Adventure

Seek out this quirky, beloved public art installation lurking beneath the Aurora Bridge. It's a fun, slightly eerie photo opportunity, and the surrounding Fremont neighborhood offers unique shops and cafes for further exploration.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

packing

Pack layers, seriously! Seattle weather is famously fickle. Think a waterproof jacket with a hood (essential for those misty mornings and sudden drizzles), a fleece or sweater, and comfortable walking shoes. You can go from a sunny Pike Place Market stroll to a chilly ferry ride in a matter of hours.

transport

Embrace public transit and walking. The Link Light Rail is fantastic for getting from Sea-Tac Airport to downtown and beyond, and buses cover the city extensively. Consider a ORCA card for easy tap-and-go payment on all King County Metro and Sound Transit services – it's way simpler than fumbling for cash.

food

Don't just stick to the tourist traps at Pike Place Market. Venture into neighborhoods like Ballard or Capitol Hill for incredible, more authentic food experiences. Try the amazing seafood at The Walrus and the Carpenter in Ballard, or explore the diverse culinary scene on Pike/Pine streets in Capitol Hill.

money

Look for happy hour deals! Seattleites love their happy hour, and many fantastic restaurants offer significant discounts on food and drinks from late afternoon into the early evening. It's a great way to sample upscale cuisine without the full dinner price tag.

culture

Be prepared for a 'Seattle Freeze' if you're not used to it. While generally friendly, locals can sometimes seem reserved initially. Don't take it personally; strike up conversations at coffee shops or breweries, and you'll find people warm up quickly. Showing genuine interest in the city goes a long way.

safety

Be aware of your surroundings, especially in certain downtown areas after dark. While Seattle is generally safe, areas around Pioneer Square can sometimes attract petty crime. Stick to well-lit streets, keep valuables secure, and don't hesitate to use ride-sharing services if you feel uncomfortable walking.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan

15 days

Feb

12 days

Mar

13 days

Apr

11 days

May

9 days

Jun

7 days

Jul

5 days

Aug

6 days

Sep

8 days

Oct

11 days

Nov

14 days

Dec

15 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

Month	High (°C)	Low (°C)	High (°F)	Low (°F)	Rainfall (mm)	Rain Days	Daylight (h)
Jan	7°C	1°C	45°F	34°F	130mm	15 days	9.5h
Feb	9°C	2°C	48°F	36°F	100mm	12 days	10.5h
Mar	11°C	3°C	52°F	37°F	95mm	13 days	12h
Apr	14°C	5°C	57°F	41°F	70mm	11 days	13.5h
May	17°C	7°C	63°F	45°F	55mm	9 days	15h
Jun	20°C	9°C	68°F	48°F	40mm	7 days	16h
Jul	23°C	11°C	73°F	52°F	30mm	5 days	15.5h
Aug	23°C	11°C	73°F	52°F	35mm	6 days	14h
Sep	20°C	9°C	68°F	48°F	50mm	8 days	12.5h
Oct	15°C	6°C	59°F	43°F	90mm	11 days	11h
Nov	10°C	3°C	50°F	37°F	130mm	14 days	9.5h
Dec	7°C	1°C	45°F	34°F	140mm	15 days	9h

Weather

10°C°C / 50°F°F

14 days rainy days • 130mmmm

What to Expect

Late fall, cooler weather. Off-season begins, significant discounts available.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Nov sees significant rainfall. Bring waterproof gear.

Dec in Seattle, USA

Weather

7°C°C / 45°F°F

15 days rainy days • 140mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec is cooler. Pack warm clothing and layers.

All Things to Do in Seattle, USA

Pike Place Market's Dawn Patrol

food

Best time: Apr-Oct

Chihuly Garden and Glass After Dark

cultural

Best time: Year-round

Discovery Park's Coastal Trails

nature

Best time: May-Oct

Fremont Troll's Underbelly Adventure

activity

Best time: Year-round

Ballard Locks' Salmon Ladder Spectacle

nature

Witness the incredible journey of salmon migrating upstream at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. The fish ladder viewing windows offer a fascinating, up-close look at nature's resilience, particularly during the peak salmon run.

Best time: Jun-Sep

Bookworm's Paradise at Elliott Bay Book Company

shopping

Lose yourself in the labyrinthine aisles of this independent bookstore, a Seattle institution beloved by locals. Browse new releases and hidden literary gems, and often catch readings by local authors in its cozy atmosphere.

Best time: Year-round

Sunset Views from Kerry Park

attraction

For that quintessential Seattle postcard view, head to Kerry Park. As the sun dips below the horizon, the city skyline, including the Space Needle, is bathed in a warm glow, creating a truly unforgettable panorama.

Best time: Apr-Oct

Georgetown's Industrial Art Scene

cultural

Explore the gritty charm of Georgetown, Seattle's oldest neighborhood, now a hub for artists and craft breweries. Wander through converted warehouses housing studios, galleries, and unique eateries, especially vibrant during the monthly 'Georgetown Art Attack'.

Best time: Year-round

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Getting Around Seattle, USA

Link Light Rail

This is Seattle's primary public transit spine, connecting the airport (SEA) to Northgate in the north, passing through downtown and Capitol Hill. It's incredibly efficient for avoiding traffic, especially between the airport and the city center.

Cost:$2.75 - $3.50 per trip depending on zone, $15 for a day pass.

Tip:Download the 'Transit GO Ticket' app to purchase tickets and passes digitally. Avoid buying tickets from the machines if you're in a rush, as they can sometimes have queues. The light rail is generally quiet; keep conversations low and be mindful of others' personal space, especially during peak hours.

King County Metro Buses

Seattle has an extensive bus network that reaches almost every corner of the city and surrounding areas. It's the most comprehensive way to get around if your destination isn't directly on the light rail line.

Cost:$2.75 per trip, with a $0.50 surcharge for express routes. Day passes are $8.

Tip:Use the 'OneBusAway' app for real-time bus tracking – it's a lifesaver. Many buses have bike racks, which is a great option for multi-modal travel. Don't be afraid to ask the driver if you're unsure about your stop; most are happy to help. Be aware that some routes are less frequent on weekends.

Seattle Streetcar

Two distinct streetcar lines, the South Lake Union line and the First Hill line, offer convenient service within specific urban neighborhoods. They are perfect for short hops between attractions in these areas, like visiting MOHAI or navigating Capitol Hill.

Cost:$1.00 per ride, or included with a Link Light Rail day pass.

Tip:You can pay onboard with cash or use the Transit GO Ticket app. The streetcar can be slow due to traffic, so it's not ideal for time-sensitive travel across town. Etiquette is similar to buses: keep noise levels down and offer seats to those who need them.

Ferry System (Washington State Ferries)

While technically a commuter service, the ferries to Bainbridge Island and Bremerton are a must-do for tourists. They offer unparalleled views of the Seattle skyline and Puget Sound, acting as both transport and a scenic tour.

Cost:$9.70 for a round-trip passenger ticket to Bainbridge Island (paid on the return trip from the island).

Tip:Walk on to save money and avoid parking hassles. Arrive at least 20-30 minutes before departure, especially on weekends, to secure a good spot on deck. The best photo opportunities are from the port side of the ferry as you depart Seattle. Don't miss the chance to explore Winslow on Bainbridge Island after your ride.

Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft)

Widely available throughout Seattle, these services offer door-to-door convenience for getting around. They are a good option for late-night travel or when public transit routes are inconvenient.

Cost:Variable, typically $15-$40 for rides within the city, depending on distance and surge pricing.

Tip:Be aware of surge pricing during peak hours or major events – public transit might be significantly cheaper. Always double-check the license plate and car model in the app before getting in. Seattle has designated pick-up zones in busy areas like Pike Place Market to help manage traffic.

Biking (Public Bike Share & Personal Bikes)

Seattle has a growing network of bike lanes and several bike-sharing programs (like Lime and Wheels). It's a fantastic way to explore neighborhoods like Fremont, Ballard, or along the waterfront, especially on a nice day.

Cost:$1 to unlock, then $0.30-$0.40 per minute for most services.

Tip:Download the respective bike-share apps. Be prepared for Seattle's hills; some areas are quite challenging! Always wear a helmet and be aware of traffic laws. A common mistake is assuming all streets are bike-friendly; stick to designated lanes and paths when possible.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When's the absolute best time to visit Seattle if I want to maximize sunshine and minimize crowds?

Hands down, aim for July or August. Seattle's summers are legendary for their crisp, sunny days and comfortable temperatures, making it perfect for exploring Pike Place Market or taking a ferry. While it's peak season, the crowds are manageable, and the weather is a delightful reward for planning ahead.

I'm planning to rely on public transport in Seattle. How easy is it to get around without a car?

Seattle's public transit system, King County Metro, is quite good, especially within the city center and to popular neighborhoods like Ballard or Fremont. The Link light rail is a lifesaver for getting from Sea-Tac Airport directly downtown, and buses cover most areas. Just be aware that Seattle is quite hilly, so factor that into your walking plans between stops!

What's the deal with Seattle's 'rainy season'? Should I really pack a raincoat year-round?

Ah, the Seattle drizzle! While it's true that Seattle gets its fair share of gray days, especially from October through May, it's rarely a torrential downpour. Think more of a persistent mist. Packing a good waterproof jacket with a hood is essential, but don't let the forecast deter you; many of Seattle's best experiences, like cozying up in a coffee shop or visiting a museum, are perfect for a damp day.

Beyond the Space Needle and Pike Place, what's a local favorite spot you'd recommend?

You absolutely must explore the Ballard Locks (Hiram M. Chittenden Locks). It's a fascinating place where you can watch boats transition between the Puget Sound and the freshwater of Lake Union and Lake Washington, and there's even a fish ladder to observe salmon runs during certain times of the year. It offers a unique glimpse into Seattle's maritime life without the usual tourist hustle.

I've heard Seattle is a coffee town. Any tips for finding the best local brews?

You've heard right! While Starbucks originated here, the real magic is in the independent shops. Wander into neighborhoods like Capitol Hill or Fremont and you'll find incredible roasters like Victrola Coffee Roasters or Milstead & Co. Don't be afraid to ask the baristas for their recommendations; they're passionate about their craft and can guide you to your perfect cup.

What's a common local custom or etiquette I should be aware of in Seattle?

Seattleites tend to be pretty laid-back and value personal space, especially in public. You'll notice people are generally polite but might not engage in extensive small talk with strangers. Also, tipping is customary for service industry workers, just like in most of the US, so factor that into your budget for restaurants and cafes.

How many days do you need in Seattle, USA?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Seattle, USA to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

Is Seattle, USA expensive to visit?

Seattle, USA can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during May and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Seattle, USA famous for?

Seattle, USA is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during May or Jun for the best experience.

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