The Seattle climate can be overwhelming for visitors. The rain falls almost every day for several
months out of the year, but that’s part of the beauty. In Seattle the rain invites discovery, so we
wanted to share with you the top five places we would recommend for you to explore on a rainy day.

1. Pike Place Market
Whether this is your first time to Seattle or you come on a regular basis, Pike Place Market is
always a town favorite. The storefronts are lined with street performers, providing their talent for
a donation. People are gathered, shoulders together, as they look at the hundreds of handmade
items, fresh grown flowers, and chocolate pasta samples. Stand in line for a warm cup of coffee
at the iconic flagship Starbucks location. Put on your hood and rain boots and stroll over to the
grass area on the North side of the market to get a great view of the water. Grab a bite to eat in
the multi-level market with restaurants, food stands, and fresh produce tables. The Market is a
great place to visit on a rainy day because it is covered and is big enough to spend a significant
amount of time walking through.

2. Space Needle
Standing 605 feet up in the air, the Space Needle is a cherished piece of art in the Downtown
Seattle Skyline. In addition to its Observation Deck, which allows you to see a panoramic view
of the entire city, the Needle’s restaurant, SkyCity, cannot be matched. If you’re looking for a
warm place to be on a rainy Seattle night, this is it. Each restaurant reservation includes a free
trip to the Observation Deck, which is the best bang for your buck. Bringing your kids along?
They have a great selection of American cuisine that is sure to please even the pickiest of kids.
If brunch is your weekly highlight, their malted buttermilk waffle or classic benny will make your
mouth water. Looking for the perfect date night? Pair a glass of your favorite wine (they have
quite the selection!) with a vanilla bean creme brulee. You won’t regret it. Whether you are
staring out while enjoying a fantastic meal, or making your rounds on the Observation Deck, you
will not find a better view of the city anywhere else in Seattle.

3. Chihuly Garden and Glass
If you’ve been to Vegas, there is a good chance that you’ve seen Chihuly’s work. The iconic
ceiling display, “Fiori Di Como”, in the front lobby at the Bellagio, is one of his most famous
pieces, causing passer-by’s to stare in awe. In 2012, the Seattle Center was privileged with the
opportunity to open a long-standing exhibit featuring the masterpieces of Dale Chihuly. If you’re
visiting Seattle, this needs to be on your short list. The glasshouse displays are breathtaking,
with colors changing based on the natural light. The outdoor garden combines the natural with
the created, inviting your mind to escape into its whimsy. Interested in learning a little more
about the pieces? The museum offers an audio tour. And there’s even a cafe with art adorning
the ceiling and walls, but don’t forget to make a reservation!

4. Experience Music Project Museum/Museum of Pop Culture
The Experience Music Project Museum, or EMP as it is often referred to, recently changed its
name to MoPOP-Museum of Pop Culture. It is a one-of-a-kind museum that the whole family
can enjoy. It features interesting music and pop culture history, phenomenal exhibitions, and
fascinating educational opportunities. The building itself is a visual representation of what you
can expect to find inside. With its various textures and colors, the steel frame portrays the
energy and fluidity of music. MoPOP is different than other museums, because their intention is
that you experience music and culture, not just observe it. If you’re looking for an experience
that will cause you to pause and engage with music and pop culture in a new way, look no
further.

5. Museum of Flight
Create a field trip for you and your family with a planned visit to the Museum of Flight. They offer
a wide variety of classes on aviation, space, robots, and more. The Museum originally was
located in the Red Barn that served as the birthplace of the Boeing Company in 1975. It has
taken on many new shapes since then, but is currently the largest independent non-profit air
and space program in the world. The museum contains over 175 air and spacecrafts, articles,
photographs, and ongoing exhibits that are sure to teach you something new. Take the time to
explore the history of aircraft that has significantly transformed our culture, communication, and
ability to travel all around the world.

So on your next visit to Seattle, let the rain be an invitation to rub shoulders with other visitors at
Pike Place Market, eat a great meal while looking at the Skyline at the Space Needle, be
amazed by the combination of glass and light at Chihuly Garden and Glass, experience the
intricacies of music and pop culture at MoPOP, and learn the rich history of travel at the
Museum of Flight.