Life, as of Late

Traveling with kids can be challenging, but it doesn’t always have to be. When your kids are toddlers like mine, practically anywhere you go and anything you do can be enjoyable in their eyes, which is one of my favorite parts about being a Mom. Their perspectives tend to completely shift mine in the most meaningful and beautiful ways.

When we visited Seattle earlier this summer, we originally planned to take them to a children’s museum or park of some sort, but our trip was cut short. So we found alternative ideas that not only my kids enjoyed, but my husband and I did also. If you’re visiting the Emerald City, keep reading for a few places you and the entire family will equally love.

1. Visit Alki Beach

Located in West Seattle, Alki Beach is a popular sandy waterfront beach that stretches approximately 2 miles long. It offers incredible views of Seattle’s skyline as well as an array of activities everyone in your family is sure to enjoy!

My little ones loved playing in the sand, which is perfect for building sandcastles. You can, of course, also wade in the water or dip your feet in. There are several playgrounds along the beach, allowing your kiddos to play and explore.

It’s a great spot to have a picnic, as tables and barbecue pits are available for public use. When we visited in May, several beachgoers were playing sand volleyball which looked like an absolute blast!

There are also various dining options available nearby, making it an all-around great option to satisfy everyone’s needs.

2. Take the Ferry to Bainbridge Island

The experience of taking the ferry to Bainbridge Island is such a unique and exciting experience that you have to do at least once when visiting Seattle. The ferry ride lasts approximately 30 minutes one-way across the Puget Sound from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island.

The views are absolutely breathtaking. It offers stunning views of the Seattle skyline and Mount Rainer on clearer days. In my opinion, it’s the best way to view the city’s skyline, and looks even more incredible at night.

We drove our car onto the ferry, but you have the option to walk or ride a bike on as well. You can take in the views from the seating area on the upper levels, the open decks, or the comfort of your vehicle.

Onboard, there are concessions available, including snacks and alcoholic beverages. Kids can spot wildlife from the observation deck, such as seals or sea birds.

Bainbridge Island offers several attractions for adults and kids alike, such as the Museum of Art, Kids Discovery Museum, and their local Farmers Market. I couldn’t recommend this activity more, whether you’re visiting with kids or not.

3. Catch the Sunset at Gas Works Park

It’s no secret that Seattle is an incredibly beautiful city with stunning views of not only the landscape, but of the city as well. There’s no place more ideal or picturesque to take in the sunset while viewing the city skyline, Lake Union, and the gorgeous Olympic Mountains, than at Gas Works Park.

The park itself is situated on a former gasification plant, which has since been transformed into the park we know and see today. There’s a vast open and grassy area, perfect for picnicking and enjoying the view. The on-site playground makes it perfect for children to play and burn off energy.

You’ll find people on boats on the lake, flying kites in the grass, playing catch, or simply relaxing and enjoying the sunset. The park has several paths for both biking and walking. On the night that we visited, there was even a group performing throwback hits on makeshift instruments. My two older kids got a real kick out of this and spent the night dancing away.

I truly felt like I was experiencing Seattle in such a raw and authentic way.

I can’t wait to visit again. I hope this short list of ideas helps you create a memorable itinerary for you and your loved ones!