✓ Updated December 2025

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Seattle, USA: May or Jun 2025

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:

Summer, specifically July and August, is when Seattle truly shines, offering the most reliably pleasant weather for exploring its lively waterfront and iconic sights. Imagine crisp, sunny days perfect for ferry rides across Puget Sound, with the morning mist giving way to clear skies that frame the majestic Olympic Mountains. This period also buzzes with outdoor festivals and the vibrant energy of Pike Place Market, making it a fantastic time to soak in the city's lively atmosphere. While late spring offers fewer crowds and blooming flowers, and early autumn brings a cozy charm with colorful foliage, the consistent sunshine of summer makes it the prime choice for an unforgettable Seattle adventure.

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 awaken. Arrive before 9 AM to see fishmongers setting up their vibrant displays and bakers pulling fresh pastries from the oven, all without the midday hustle. Grab a coffee from the original Starbucks and savor the authentic market buzz.

Chihuly Garden and Glass After Dark

Experience the dazzling glass art of Dale Chihuly transformed by the evening light. Wander through the illuminated garden and galleries, where the vibrant colors and intricate forms seem to float in the darkness, creating a truly magical and intimate atmosphere.

Discovery Park's Coastal Trails

Escape the city bustle in Seattle's largest urban park. Hike down to the West Point Lighthouse for stunning Puget Sound views, keeping an eye out for seals and eagles. The trails offer a refreshing dose of Pacific Northwest nature, especially vibrant with wildflowers in spring.

Fremont Troll's Underbelly Adventure

Seek out this quirky, beloved local sculpture lurking beneath the Aurora Bridge. It's a fun, slightly surreal photo opportunity and a great starting point to explore the eclectic Fremont neighborhood, known for its independent spirit and quirky shops.

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

food

Don't sleep on the happy hour deals! Many of Seattle's best restaurants, from upscale seafood spots to trendy gastropubs, offer fantastic happy hour menus with discounted drinks and appetizers. Check out places like Matt's in the Market or The Walrus and the Carpenter for incredible deals that make fine dining more accessible.

transport

Embrace public transit, especially the Link Light Rail. It's a super efficient and affordable way to get from Sea-Tac Airport directly into downtown and Capitol Hill, avoiding traffic. For getting around the city, the bus system is extensive, and you can use the Transit GO Ticket app to buy fares on the go.

packing

Pack layers, always. Seattle's weather is famously fickle, and you can experience sunshine, rain, and wind all in one day. A waterproof and windproof jacket is non-negotiable, and having a few versatile layers you can add or remove will keep you comfortable whether you're exploring Pike Place Market or hiking in Discovery Park.

culture

Be prepared for a coffee culture that's serious business. Seattleites take their coffee seriously, and you'll find independent cafes on almost every corner. Don't be afraid to ask your barista for recommendations; they're usually passionate about their brews and can guide you to the perfect cup, whether you prefer a pour-over or a fancy latte.

money

Consider a CityPASS if you plan on hitting multiple major attractions. It bundles admission to places like the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) at a significant discount. It's a great way to save money if you're a tourist looking to experience the highlights.

safety

Be aware of your surroundings, especially in certain downtown areas after dark. While Seattle is generally safe, like any major city, it's wise to stick to well-lit streets and avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas. Keep your valuables secure and be mindful of petty theft, particularly in crowded tourist spots.

💡 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

10 days

May

8 days

Jun

6 days

Jul

5 days

Aug

5 days

Sep

7 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	38°F	90mm	13 days	12h
Apr	14°C	5°C	57°F	41°F	60mm	10 days	13.5h
May	17°C	7°C	63°F	45°F	50mm	8 days	15h
Jun	20°C	10°C	68°F	50°F	40mm	6 days	16h
Jul	23°C	12°C	73°F	54°F	30mm	5 days	15.5h
Aug	23°C	12°C	73°F	54°F	30mm	5 days	14h
Sep	20°C	10°C	68°F	50°F	50mm	7 days	12.5h
Oct	15°C	7°C	59°F	45°F	80mm	11 days	11h
Nov	10°C	4°C	50°F	39°F	120mm	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 • 120mmmm

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, but especially magical on clear evenings

Discovery Park's Coastal Trails

nature

Best time: Apr-Oct

Fremont Troll's Underbelly Adventure

activity

Ballard Locks' Salmon Ladder Spectacle

activity

Witness nature's incredible journey at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. From late spring through fall, you can watch salmon navigate the fish ladder through underwater viewing windows – a fascinating glimpse into the life cycle of these iconic Pacific Northwest inhabitants.

Best time: Jun-Sep

Georgetown's Industrial Art Scene

cultural

Explore Seattle's oldest neighborhood, now a hub for artists and makers. Wander through industrial warehouses transformed into studios and galleries, and discover unique street art. Catch live music at a local venue for a taste of Seattle's gritty, authentic nightlife.

Book Labyrinth at the Seattle Public Library

attraction

Get lost (in a good way) in the architectural marvel that is the Seattle Central Library. Seek out the 'Book Labyrinth' on the 10th floor, a circular room filled with books, offering a quiet, contemplative space and unique city views. It's a book lover's paradise and a photographer's dream.

Capitol Hill's Independent Boutiques

shopping

Dive into the vibrant and diverse shopping scene of Capitol Hill. Beyond the mainstream, you'll find unique vintage clothing stores, artisan craft shops, and independent bookstores brimming with local finds and quirky treasures.

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Getting Around Seattle, USA

Link Light Rail

This is Seattle's primary public transit spine, connecting Sea-Tac Airport to Northgate in the north, with stops in downtown, Capitol Hill, and the University District. It's efficient for avoiding traffic on I-5 and getting to major hubs.

Cost:$2.25 - $3.50 per ride, depending on distance.

Tip:Download the 'Transit GO Ticket' app to purchase tickets and avoid fumbling for cash at the station. Don't be surprised if it gets crowded during rush hour; be ready to stand. Avoid trying to board with large luggage during peak times, as it can be difficult to navigate.

King County Metro Buses

An extensive network of buses covers virtually every corner of Seattle and surrounding King County. They are crucial for reaching neighborhoods not served by the light rail, like Ballard or Fremont.

Cost:$2.75 per ride, with transfers included within a certain timeframe.

Tip:Use the 'OneBusAway' app for real-time bus tracking – it's a lifesaver. Be aware of 'RapidRide' lines, which are faster and have fewer stops. Locals often wait a bit past the posted stop time, as buses can be a few minutes behind schedule, especially in traffic.

Seattle Streetcar

Two distinct streetcar lines, the South Lake Union and First Hill lines, offer convenient, albeit limited, service within specific downtown and South Lake Union areas. They're great for short hops between attractions in those zones.

Cost:$2.00 per ride.

Tip:You can pay with cash or use the 'Transit GO Ticket' app. The streetcars are often slower than walking for very short distances, so consider that. Don't expect it to be a primary mode for extensive travel across the city.

Ferries (Washington State Ferries)

For a truly iconic Seattle experience and access to islands like Bainbridge or Bremerton, the ferries are unparalleled. They offer stunning views of the skyline and Puget Sound.

Cost:Vehicle and passenger fares vary; walk-on passengers are typically around $9-$10 round trip to Bainbridge Island.

Tip:Check the ferry schedule online or via their app before heading to the terminal, especially for return trips. Arrive early, particularly on weekends or holidays, as lines for vehicles can be very long. Enjoy the view – it's the best part!

Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft)

Ubiquitous and convenient, Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Seattle for door-to-door service. They are a good option when public transit routes are inconvenient or late at night.

Cost:Varies significantly based on demand, time of day, and distance. Expect $15-$40 for typical city trips.

Tip:Be aware of surge pricing during peak hours or major events. Always double-check the license plate and car model against what's shown in the app before getting in. If you're traveling from the airport, designated ride-share pickup zones can be confusing; follow the signs carefully.

Biking (Public & Private Rentals)

Seattle has a growing network of bike lanes and paths, making cycling a viable option for exploring certain neighborhoods. Companies like Lime and JUMP offer dockless electric bikes.

Cost:Varies by provider, typically $1 to unlock and $0.15-$0.30 per minute.

Tip:Seattle is hilly! Be prepared for inclines, especially if you're not used to them. Stick to designated bike lanes and be mindful of streetcar tracks, which can be hazardous for bikes. Always wear a helmet and lock your bike securely if leaving it unattended.

💡 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 rain?

Hands down, aim for July or August. Seattle's reputation for rain is well-earned, but those two months offer the driest and sunniest weather, with average temperatures in the comfortable mid-70s. You'll find the city buzzing with outdoor festivals and people enjoying the waterfront, making it a fantastic time to explore.

Beyond Pike Place Market, what's a local favorite spot for fresh seafood?

While Pike Place is iconic, for a truly local experience, head to the Ballard Farmers Market on Sundays. You'll find incredible vendors selling freshly caught salmon, oysters, and Dungeness crab, often prepared for immediate enjoyment. It's a more laid-back vibe than the market and a great way to sample the best of the Pacific Northwest's bounty.

How do I get around Seattle without a car, especially to neighborhoods outside downtown?

Seattle has a decent public transit system, but for exploring beyond the immediate downtown core, the Link light rail is your best friend for reaching areas like Capitol Hill or the University District. For other neighborhoods, the bus system is extensive, though it can be a bit slow during peak hours. Consider a day pass for unlimited rides, and don't underestimate walking – many of Seattle's neighborhoods are incredibly walkable once you're there.

I've heard Seattle is very coffee-centric. What's a good way to experience this beyond the big chains?

Absolutely! Seattle's coffee culture runs deep. Skip the Starbucks Reserve Roastery for a moment and seek out local roasters like Victrola Coffee Roasters or Caffe Vita. They offer a more intimate atmosphere and often have baristas who are true artisans, happy to discuss bean origins and brewing methods. It's where you'll find the real Seattle coffee soul.

What's a unique Seattle experience that most tourists miss?

Take a ferry to Bainbridge Island! It's a ridiculously affordable and scenic way to get out on the water and see the city skyline from a different perspective. Once on the island, you can stroll through the charming town of Winslow, grab lunch, and enjoy the peaceful island atmosphere before heading back. It's a perfect half-day escape.

Are there any local customs or etiquette I should be aware of?

Seattleites are generally pretty laid-back, but you'll notice a strong emphasis on environmental consciousness and politeness. Be prepared for people to queue patiently, and don't be surprised if you hear a lot of 'sorry' – it's often used as a polite acknowledgment even when it's not strictly an apology. Also, recycling and composting are taken very seriously, so pay attention to the bins!

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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