With the iconic Space Needle tower, the famous Pike Place Market, and unique landmarks such as the Science Fiction Hall of Fame, there are no shortage of unique activities in the city of Seattle, the northernmost major metropolitan area in the continental United States. For those traveling with kids, Seattle is also home to a few family-friendly attractions.
One of the more popular attractions in Seattle, the Seattle Aquarium is also a great place to visit with children. From fascinating creatures like jellyfish to local wildlife like orca whales and sea otters, the aquarium is brimming with a variety of marine life. The museum also offers a range of educational programs and exhibits, from learning about the up-river journey of salmon to scuba exhibits in the aquarium's Underwater Dome. Programs geared for children include Toddler Time, which runs from October through March. Participants in Toddler Time take part in a range of fun activities, from painting to puppet shows. The facility also houses a cafe and gift shop. The aquarium closes at 5 p.m. daily.
Seattle Aquarium
1483 Alaskan Way
Seattle, WA 98101-2015
206-386-4300
seattleaquarium.org
The Olympic Sculpture Park offers a unique experience. Open year-round, the park consists of a sculpture park as well as an adjacent beach. Operated by the Seattle Art Museum, the sculptures throughout the park were built by visual artists, and include installations such as "Wandering Rocks," "Eagle" and "Seattle Cloud Cover." For children, these sculptures are sure to stir the imagination, and the park offers ample space to let loose. An added bonus--the park is free, helping ease the strain on mom and dad's collective wallet. Free guided tours are available, and a museum shop and cafe are located on the premises.
Olympic Sculpture Park
2901 Western Avenue
Seattle, WA 98121
206-654-3100
seattleartmuseum.org
Sure to be a favorite among the youngsters is the local Children's Museum. The museum, perfect for parties and educational field trips, features a range of kid-friendly exhibits. From the re-creation of an African village in the country of Ghana, to the popular Imagination Studio, to an aquarium-style Discover Bay, there's plenty to enjoy. The museum is also home to numerous programs, including the Lil' Green Thumbs Garden, in which kids can try their hand at gardening, to temporary programs such as the Adventures with Clifford The Big Red Dog exhibit and breakfast program. The museum is also conveniently located adjacent to the Space Needle, one of Seattle's most iconic landmarks.
The Children's Museum
305 Harrison St
Seattle, WA 98109-4623
206-441-1768
thechildrensmuseum.org
