Looking for the best Seattle tours to explore the best of Emerald City? Well, you’re in the right place!
The thing is: picking the right day trip that agrees with your schedule and satisfies your desires is not a walk in the park, especially when there are a myriad of packages laid out on the internet waiting to steal your attention.
Here, we selected the most applauded organized tours that take you from the dazzling sunset of Seattle’s waters with a feast for the palate to the Bavarian Village of Leavenworth and the cascading current of Snoqualmie Falls.
Let’s get started!
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1. 3-Hour Seattle City Tour by Bus
Seattle is famous for its bustling waterfront, historic neighborhoods, and numerous green spaces. This 3-Hour City Tour by Bus is a fantastic way to see Seattle’s top attractions, which is pretty ideal for first-time visitors, families, and those who prefer not to walk!
Iconic landmarks like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the historic Pioneer Square are included in the city tour.
Sit back and enjoy the scenery while your guide shares interesting facts and stories about Seattle’s history and culture.
2. Mt. Rainier Day Tour from Seattle
Undoubtedly one of the most incredible outdoor pursuits for nature worshippers, Mt. Rainier has you amazed at the height of 14,410 feet, making it the highest volcanic peak in all of the States.
If chasing the lush meadows and rugged mountain peaks is what your heart desires, then Mt. Rainier Day Tour from Seattle is a must-do.
This full-day tour takes you to the stunning Mt. Rainier National Park, where you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of waterfalls, meadows, and mountain vistas.
The tour also includes a visit to the Longmire Visitor Center and Museum, where you can dive into the park’s history. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the Paradise Jackson Visitor Center offers panoramic views of Mt. Rainier and the Tatoosh mountain range.
Though a self-guided trip to Mt. Rainier Park is totally doable, there’s no better way to reveal the majestic geological and biological sides of Mt. Rainier than an organized tour with a guide who knows about his land better than anyone else.
3. Pike Place Market Tasting Tour
The famous Pike Place Market is packed with locals and tourists alike, who come to browse stalls of fresh seafood, produce, flowers, artisanal products, and local art.
If you wish to explore this place’s culinary scene to the fullest, this Pike Place Market Tasting Tour is having your back!
You’ll get to sample a variety of foods, from fresh produce to artisanal treats, and learn about the market’s rich history and culture. The tour also includes exclusive discounts at select vendors, so you can take some of the deliciousness home with you.
It’s a must-do for foodies visiting Seattle!
🍩 Are you a foodie? Check out these 10 food tours in Seattle!
4. Seattle’s Only Underground Donut Tour
Who isn’t a fan of sweet treats?
This Seattle’s Only Underground Donut Tour is definitely made for you!
This tour takes you on a delicious journey through some of Seattle’s best donut shops near the Monorail, Belltown, and Pike Place Market and you’ll be trying all the best donuts Seattle has to offer.
From classic glazed to innovative flavors, they have them all here.
Did we say that you’ll have your chance to learn about the city’s donut history too? This is definitely a fun and tasty way to explore Seattle, and it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!
5. 3-Hour Seattle City Bike Tour
If cycling through the heart of Seattle sounds nice to you, then you’re going to love this 3-Hour Emerald City Bike Tour.
Get ready to pedal your way through 8 neighborhoods in Seattle to explore some of Seattle’s top sights, stopping to listen to insightful commentary along the way.
You’ll be visiting the Queen Anne neighborhood and passing through the Seattle Center. Get close up with the Space Needle, MoPop, the Pacific Science Center, and the brand new Climate Pledge Arena before you pass through South Lake Union before heading North.
All the equipment you need is provided, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own bike or helmet. Just make sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and get ready for a fun-filled day of exploration!
6. Evening Colors Sunset Sail Tour in Seattle
Looking for a sweet spot to marvel at Seattle’s sunset? Come over to Bell Harbor Marina at 7:30 pm and let the game begin!
Spend two memorable hours with Evening Colors Sunset Tour and reward yourself with stunning sunsets over shimmering waters. Couples and families specifically adore this organized trip which transports them through Seattle’s beautiful waterways, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding mountains on a beautiful, classic yacht.
As you sail along, iconic landmarks like the Space Needle, Mt. Rainier, and Olympic National Park slowly appear to accommodate your unique perspective. As the sun beams down, the sky transforms into a canvas of colors, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your sailing adventure.
7. Leavenworth Tour from Seattle
Dubbed as one of the most popular day trips from Seattle, the Bavarian-style village of Leavenworth needs no more than a two and a half hours drive from Seattle downtown. Steeped in a whimsical feel where Bavarian buildings leaning against the dramatic mountainous backdrop make a statement, Leavenworth is a real treat for the eyes that you can complete within nine hours.
The journey begins with a scenic drive through the Cascade Mountains, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of the East Seattle landscape. Right here, Lake Washington, Bellevue, Sammamish River Valley, and Gold Bar are the biggest hooks.
As you dive further into the Northwest scenery, Leavenworth embraces you with its quaint shops, delicious eateries, and plenty of photo opportunities. Don’t explore with an empty stomach! The guide is more than happy to introduce classic German cuisine here with traditional staples like sausages, spätzle, and Munich beer.
8. Half-Day Guided Tour of Seattle City and Snoqualmie Falls
If you’re short on time but still want to see the best of Seattle, the Half-Day Guided Tour of Seattle City and Snoqualmie Falls is a top call. Four hours on the road, not too short, not too long, just decent to cover the finest highlights in Seattle’s backyard.
The tour begins with a drive through Seattle’s most notorious neighborhoods, where you get picked up at the iconic Place Market before traversing through the bustling Pioneer Square to immerse in the heritage feel of art walks and delicious lunch spots.
As you drive through CenturyLink Field and T-Mobile Park, the local guide will blow your mind with untold stories and fun facts about country-renowned sports teams with heavyweights like NFL, MLB, and MLS.
The second part of the tour takes you to Snoqualmie Falls, a spectacular 268-foot waterfall located just outside the city. Spend 90 good minutes roaming free and marveling at the incredible cascades of the famous Twin Peaks of the Pacific Northwest.
On the way back, it’s time to discover Seattle’s lesser-known gems such as the quirky statue of Fremont Troll, Fishermen’s Terminal, and watch migrating salmon at Hiram M. Chittenden Locks.
9. Terrors And Ghosts Guided Walking Tour
Step into the eerie past of Seattle with the Seattle: Terrors and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour. This is the best call for those whose hearts are not fond of jump scares or a long-haul walk full of wandering souls watching over them.
All you need is less than two hours on the road, starting out from the very heart of Seattle – the Four Seasons Hotel at 99 Union Street. From there, the guide takes you on a spine-tingling journey through the city’s haunted history, from the old Suquamish burial grounds to the Northwest’s first mortuary.
When you finally step into the bustling core of Pike Place Market, try looking for the ghost of Princess Angeline. Most known as Chief Seattle’s daughter, she lived in a house just a few blocks away from the market. Though buried at Lake View Cemetery on Capitol Hill, her silhouette is reported to survey this 116-year-old market long after she passed away. Other than the princess, spirits of barbers, psychics, and children have left sights at this busy hub.
Leaving Pike Place behind, follow the steps of the undertakers who capitalized on Seattle’s high death tolls, 100 Boston undercover women who came to balance the male-to-female ratio in the city, and catch a glimpse of Kurt Cobain standing outside of the Moore Hotel with a white bag in hand.
This tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, making it a unique way to learn about the city’s history. The tour lasts for 1.5 hours and takes place rain or shine, so be sure to dress appropriately! An umbrella will come in handy.
👻 Looking for something spooky? Check out these ghost tours in Seattle!
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, these tours will provide a fresh perspective on the city and its rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
Now comes the next biggest question: “What are you gonna do tonight?”
Call it a day by hitting one of those coolest speakeasies and secret bars in Seattle for a good time!