5 Family-Friendly Things to Do on an Overcast Seattle Day
Planning a family trip to Seattle, but nervous about the weather? On average, it rains about 150 days per year in the Emerald City, so it’s crucial to add in some rainy day activities to your plans. Luckily, Seattle has many things to do that are fun for both kids and adults. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, there are still plenty of safe, rain-proof activities for the whole family. You might even consider adding in some of these family-friendly options when the weather is nice. Here’s what to do if your outdoor plans are foiled by a signature dreary Seattle day.
Get Lost in a Bookstore
When the weather changes from sunny to stormy in an instant, it’s a great time to duck into a local bookstore. Endless books and reading nooks will keep everyone happy and occupied until the sun reappears. In Seattle, there are plenty of independent bookstores that even specialize in children’s books. Check out this list to keep a bank of bookstores in mind for whatever side of town you might be exploring.
A trip to the aquarium brings out the inner child in all of us. The Seattle Aquarium is located in the downtown area on Pier 59. Notably, their kid-favorite Giant Pacific Octopus can be seen through the aquarium’s transparent tube exhibit. Other incredible creatures to see here include harbor seals, tufted puffins, and sea otters, to name a few. During the pandemic, the Seattle Aquarium has shifted to timed ticketing and limited attendance to guarantee the safety of all patrons. Everyone in the family will love gawking at the sea creatures swimming around this aquarium.
If your family has some energy to burn off on a stormy Seattle day, Elevated Sportz is the place to go. Located about 30 minutes north of the city, Elevated Sportz is the ultimate kid’s play zone. Your child will have a hard time choosing between the trampoline courts, ninja course, and play castle. Luckily, adults can join in on the bouncing fun too!
Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture is a nonprofit museum with exhibits that feature exactly what it says - contemporary popular culture. MoPOP is centrally located right next to the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum. Interactive exhibits, scenic backdrops for photos, and intriguing installations immediately enthrall both kids and adults. As of writing, MoPOP is open Friday through Sunday with significantly reduced capacity. Check out the weather forecast before your trip to snag tickets in advance and guarantee your spot.
Pike Place Market is on every tourist’s list of places to go in Seattle, and for good reason. This covered market is a perfect place to hide from the rain and features countless vendors to keep your family entertained. Be sure to find Market Magic and the Giant Shoe Museum - two fantastical spots that always wow the kids. Plus, you can surprise the family by letting them add a piece of gum to the gum wall right around the corner.
Even a gloomy Seattle day can turn into a fun family memory by visiting any of these attractions. Make sure to double check with the venues directly before visiting to review their latest COVID-19 policies. Rest and relax after a long day of sightseeing in front of the fireplace at Shafer Baillie Mansion. Kids get a kick out of exploring the Tudor-style mansion’s many intricate common rooms, and parents love the gorgeous suites and close proximity to Seattle’s most noteworthy attractions. Planning a getaway on short notice? Shafer Baillie also offers a great discount for last minute travelers.
