✓ Updated February 2026

Weather data and travel information verified current

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

Seattle, Washington, 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:

July and August are truly special in Seattle, offering the city's most dramatic, sun-drenched days perfect for exploring. Imagine the crisp air carrying the scent of pine as you wander through Pike Place Market, its stalls bursting with vibrant produce and the dramatic calls of fishmongers. The long daylight hours paint the sky with golden sunsets over Puget Sound, ideal for ferry rides and soaking in the city's stunning skyline. While September still offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds, the winter months bring a cozy, dramatic charm with their misty mornings and the allure of indoor cafes and museums.

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 to Pike Place Market by arriving just as the vendors are setting up. Witness the vibrant chaos unfold as fishmongers toss salmon, flower stalls burst with color, and the aroma of freshly baked pastries fills the air. Grab a coffee from the original Starbucks and savor the market's energy before it becomes a tourist thoroughfare.

Chihuly Garden and Glass Illumination

Experience the dazzling world of Dale Chihuly's glass art after dark. The illuminated Glasshouse and outdoor garden create a magical, otherworldly atmosphere, with vibrant colors and intricate forms glowing against the Seattle skyline. It's a truly mesmerizing visual feast, especially on a clear evening.

Discovery Park's Coastal Trails

Escape the urban bustle in Seattle's largest city park. Hike the trails leading to the West Point Lighthouse and the Puget Sound shoreline for stunning views of the Olympic Mountains. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and seals, and pack a picnic to enjoy the wild, rugged beauty.

Fremont Troll's Underbelly Adventure

Venture beneath the Aurora Bridge to find the iconic Fremont Troll, a massive sculpture emerging from the earth. This quirky, beloved local landmark is a fantastic photo opportunity and a symbol of Seattle's eccentric spirit. Explore the surrounding Fremont neighborhood, known for its independent shops and vibrant street art.

See all 7 things to do →

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

Essential Travel Tips

packing

Seattle's weather is famously fickle, so layers are your best friend! Even in summer, pack a waterproof jacket with a hood and comfortable, broken-in walking shoes. You might experience sunshine, drizzle, and wind all in one afternoon, so being prepared means you can actually enjoy exploring the Pike Place Market or Discovery Park without getting soaked or chilly.

money

Take advantage of happy hour deals for fantastic food and drinks without breaking the bank. Many of Seattle's best restaurants, from Capitol Hill bistros to downtown seafood spots, offer significant discounts on appetizers and beverages between 3-6 PM on weekdays. It's a great way to sample local cuisine like oysters or artisanal cocktails for a fraction of the regular price.

transport

Embrace public transit and walking – it's often the most efficient way to get around, especially downtown. The Link Light Rail connects Sea-Tac Airport directly to the city center, and buses cover most neighborhoods. Consider getting an ORCA card for easy tap-and-go payments; it's much simpler than fumbling for cash on the bus.

culture

Don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with locals; Seattleites are generally friendly and happy to share their favorite spots. Whether you're waiting in line for coffee or browsing a bookstore in Ballard, a simple 'What's good around here?' can lead you to hidden gems like a fantastic independent record store or the best place for a view of Puget Sound.

food

Beyond the famous fish throwing at Pike Place Market, explore the diverse culinary scene in neighborhoods like the International District or Fremont. You'll find incredible pho, authentic dim sum, and innovative fusion cuisine that reflects Seattle's multicultural population. Don't stick to just one area; venture out to truly taste the city.

safety

Be aware of your surroundings, especially in certain downtown areas after dark, but don't let it deter you from exploring. Stick to well-lit streets and consider using ride-sharing services or public transport if you're out late. Most neighborhoods are very safe and welcoming for tourists.

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

Weather Details

Jan

14 days

Feb

11 days

Mar

12 days

Apr

10 days

May

8 days

Jun

6 days

Jul

5 days

Aug

5 days

Sep

7 days

Oct

10 days

Nov

13 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	140mm	14 days	9.5h
Feb	9°C	2°C	48°F	36°F	100mm	11 days	10.5h
Mar	11°C	3°C	52°F	38°F	95mm	12 days	12h
Apr	14°C	5°C	57°F	41°F	65mm	10 days	13.5h
May	17°C	7°C	63°F	45°F	50mm	8 days	14.5h
Jun	20°C	10°C	68°F	50°F	40mm	6 days	15.5h
Jul	23°C	12°C	73°F	54°F	30mm	5 days	15h
Aug	23°C	12°C	74°F	54°F	35mm	5 days	14h
Sep	20°C	10°C	68°F	50°F	55mm	7 days	12.5h
Oct	15°C	7°C	59°F	45°F	90mm	10 days	11h
Nov	10°C	4°C	50°F	39°F	130mm	13 days	9.5h
Dec	7°C	2°C	45°F	36°F	150mm	15 days	9h

Weather

10°C°C / 50°F°F

13 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, Washington, USA

Weather

7°C°C / 45°F°F

15 days rainy days • 150mmmm

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, Washington, USA

Pike Place Market's Dawn Patrol

food

Best time: Apr-Oct

Chihuly Garden and Glass Illumination

cultural

Best time: Year-round

Discovery Park's Coastal Trails

nature

Best time: May-Oct

Fremont Troll's Underbelly Adventure

attraction

Best time: Year-round

Ballard Locks and Fish Ladder

activity

Witness the fascinating engineering of the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, where boats transition between saltwater and freshwater. During salmon season, head to the fish ladder viewing area to observe the incredible journey of migrating sockeye and coho salmon. It's a unique blend of maritime activity and natural spectacle.

Best time: Jun-Sep

Georgetown's Industrial Art Scene

cultural

Explore the gritty, artistic heart of Georgetown, Seattle's oldest neighborhood. Wander through converted warehouses housing independent art galleries, studios, and breweries. Catch live music at a local venue or enjoy a craft beer in this authentic, off-the-beaten-path district.

Best time: Year-round

Sunset Views from Kerry Park

attraction

For that quintessential Seattle postcard view, head to Kerry Park on Queen Anne Hill. As the sun dips below the horizon, the city skyline, Elliott Bay, and the majestic Mount Rainier (on a clear day) are bathed in a warm, golden light. Arrive a bit early to snag a prime spot on the wall.

Best time: Year-round

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Getting Around Seattle, Washington, USA

Link Light Rail

This is Seattle's backbone for getting around, connecting Sea-Tac Airport, downtown, Capitol Hill, and extending north to Northgate. It's efficient, clean, and a lifesaver during rush hour when surface streets get gridlocked.

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

Tip:Download the Transit GO Ticket app to purchase tickets and avoid fumbling for cash at the station. Don't be that person holding up the line! Also, be aware that while the light rail is frequent, it doesn't run 24/7, so check the schedule if you're out late. Avoid sitting in the priority seating if you're able-bodied; locals are quick to point this out.

King County Metro Buses

Seattle's bus system is extensive and can get you almost anywhere the light rail doesn't reach, including neighborhoods like Ballard or Fremont. Many routes are frequent and have dedicated lanes to bypass traffic.

Cost:$2.75 per trip, with a $0.50 transfer credit within 2 hours.

Tip:Use the OneBusAway app for real-time bus tracking – it's a lifesaver and far more accurate than station signs. If you're paying cash, have exact change ready; drivers don't carry change. A common mistake is assuming buses are always on time; always factor in a buffer, especially during peak hours.

Seattle Streetcar

There are two distinct streetcar lines: the South Lake Union line and the First Hill line. They offer a charming, albeit slower, way to navigate specific urban corridors, connecting key areas like South Lake Union's tech hub and Capitol Hill.

Cost:$2.00 per ride.

Tip:You can buy tickets at station kiosks or via the Transit GO Ticket app. While convenient for short hops within their service areas, don't rely on them for cross-city travel or if you're on a tight schedule. Be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists; streetcars are quiet and can surprise them.

Ferry System (Washington State Ferries)

For a truly iconic Seattle experience and a fantastic way to see the skyline and Puget Sound, take a ferry. The routes to Bainbridge Island and Bremerton are popular day trips and offer stunning views.

Cost:Walk-on passenger fares are around $9-$10 round trip for adults to Bainbridge Island. Vehicle fares are significantly higher.

Tip:Buy your tickets online in advance, especially if traveling on a weekend or holiday, to save time. Arrive early for vehicle boarding. Don't just stay on the car deck; go up to the passenger areas for the best views. It's a great way to escape the city for a few hours without a long journey.

Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft)

These are readily available throughout Seattle and are convenient for direct, door-to-door service, especially when traveling with luggage or to areas not well-served by public transit. They are a good option for late-night travel when public transit is less frequent.

Cost:Variable, typically $15-$40+ depending on distance and demand.

Tip:Be aware of surge pricing during peak hours or major events. The biggest mistake travelers make is not comparing prices between Uber and Lyft. Also, confirm your driver and car details before getting in – a simple but crucial safety step. Parking downtown can be expensive, so ride-sharing can sometimes be cheaper than parking your own car.

Biking and E-Scooters

Companies like Lime and Bird offer e-scooters and bikes scattered throughout the city, providing a fun and flexible way to cover short distances. They're great for exploring neighborhoods like Fremont or along the waterfront.

Cost:Typically a small unlock fee ($1-$2) plus per-minute charges ($0.30-$0.50/minute).

Tip:Download the respective apps (Lime, Bird) and set up your account beforehand. Always check the scooter/bike for damage before riding. Be extremely cautious of Seattle's hills and unpredictable weather; wet streets can be very slippery. Obey traffic laws and park responsibly in designated areas to avoid fines and annoyance from locals.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the absolute best time to visit Seattle to catch those iconic sunny days?

If you're chasing the sun, aim for July or August. Seattle truly shines then, with long daylight hours and a much lower chance of rain than you might expect. Just be aware that this is also peak tourist season, so book accommodations and popular attractions well in advance.

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

While Pike Place is a must-see, for a more local vibe and equally delicious seafood, head to the Ballard Farmers Market on Sundays. You'll find fantastic vendors selling oysters, salmon, and Dungeness crab, often with chefs preparing fresh samples. It's a great way to experience Seattle's culinary scene outside the main tourist hubs.

How do I get around Seattle without a car?

Seattle's public transit is pretty solid, especially if you're staying downtown or in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill or Fremont. The Link Light Rail is fantastic for getting from the airport to downtown and connects to many key areas. Buses are extensive, and ride-sharing services are readily available for those times you need a direct route.

What's the deal with Seattle's 'rainy season' – is it always pouring?

Seattle's reputation for rain is a bit overblown, especially outside of the fall and winter months. While we get a lot of overcast days and drizzle from October through April, it's rarely a torrential downpour. Many locals embrace it by carrying a compact umbrella or simply wearing a waterproof jacket and enjoying the lush green scenery.

Are there any unique Seattle neighborhoods I should explore that aren't on the typical tourist trail?

Absolutely! Take a trip over to West Seattle for stunning views of the city skyline from Alki Beach, and explore the charming shops and restaurants in the Junction. Another gem is Fremont, known for its quirky public art like the Fremont Troll and its vibrant Sunday market – it has a wonderfully independent spirit.

What's a good way to experience Seattle's coffee culture like a local?

Skip the big chains and seek out the independent coffee shops scattered throughout the city. Neighborhoods like Ballard, Capitol Hill, and Fremont are brimming with excellent roasters and baristas who take their craft seriously. Strike up a conversation with the barista; they often have the best recommendations for local pastries and hidden city gems.

How many days do you need in Seattle, Washington, USA?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Seattle, Washington, 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, Washington, USA expensive to visit?

Seattle, Washington, 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, Washington, USA famous for?

Seattle, Washington, 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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