10 Best Things to Do for Couples in Seattle

The views of Lake Washington from Louisa Boren Park are stunning at any time of day. But making the effort to hike up to the lookout at the break of dawn will truly be worth your while. The early start might have you grumpy, but the sunrise over Lake Washington and the Cascade Mountain Range is sure to cure those morning blues.

Bring along a blanket and a thermos of coffee to cosy up next to your partner as the city wakes up. The park is conveniently located in Capitol Hill and has lots of free parking spaces (a rarity in Seattle).

As one of the most visited spots in Seattle, the historical Pike Place Market holds such a lively and exciting atmosphere that it's not to be missed by any traveller. The lively chatter and the clatter of dishes and glasses, combined with the rich aroma of delicious food from the stalls and restaurants, create a sensory feast.

Strolling through the market, you'll find rows of bustling gift shops and stalls brimming with freshly cut flowers. A standout spot within the market is The Pink Door, an Italian-American restaurant known for its moody ambiance and unique nightly entertainment, including tarot readings and trapeze artists.

Amid the hustle and bustle of Seattle, the Washington Park Arboretum offers a serene escape for you and your special someone. With expansive gardens, duck ponds, walking trails and picnic tables, the park provides an ideal setting for a peaceful afternoon or day out enjoying each other's company.

In late summer and autumn, the foliage on the towering trees bursts into a vibrant display of colour, although the park's beauty shines year-round. A stroll through the Japanese Garden or along the shores of Lake Washington is particularly romantic. If you're visiting in the spring, be sure to explore The Quad on the University of Washington's campus, where the square is beautifully lined with blossoming trees.

Waterfall Garden Park is perhaps best enjoyed with a salumi sandwich and your significant other. Before heading to the park, pop into Seattle’s most famous sandwich shop, Salumi, on the busy Pioneer Square. The shop is known for their giant, messy beasts such as the Porchetta or the grilled lamb. And if you’re feeling indulgent, don't forget to add some extra meatballs to your order.

Head over to Waterfall Garden Park and sit on a bench amid cool, streaming waterfalls. The park is a quiet place to have lunch or a snack and its isolation makes you forget you’re in the middle of the city.

Spending an afternoon at Alki Beach is a delightful way to enjoy time with your loved one. You can take a water taxi from Downtown Seattle to West Seattle, but once you arrive, Alki Beach itself is free to visit. Many people spend hours relaxing on the sandy shores or exploring the area by bike.

The beach offers a quaint and lively atmosphere where visitors can grab fish on the pier, kayak, people-watch from the benches or play volleyball. The view along the water towards the city is phenomenal. Visit Spud’s for some great fish and chips, which you can enjoy on the beach, but be careful of those pesky seagulls.

Located in the enchanting neighbourhood of Ballard, Golden Gardens Park is an ideal place to spend a day on the grass with a picnic. With views of the glorious waters of Puget Sound and the majestic Olympic Mountains, the park is an excellent place for you and your partner to enjoy some of Seattle’s most breathtaking nature.

The park also holds wetlands, playgrounds, hiking trails, beaches and picnic tables, as well as spots to go fishing. If you’re planning to spend part of the evening there, bring firewood to build a fire and get cosy under the night sky.

Discovery Beach Park, found in Magnolia neighbourhood, has countless walking trails that take you off the beaten track to golden, sandy beaches. Here, you can lounge on the beach until the sun leaves the horizon, but it’s best to leave before it gets fully dark.

The most popular of the trails is South Beach trail, which is approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) long and brings you down to the beach, which features a small but pretty lighthouse. The park is truly a gem within the city as it offers tranquillity in the bustle of Seattle. Bring appropriate footwear for the trails as some can be steep.

The Space Needle is, needless to say, the icon of Seattle. The view from the top is magnificent as the sky darkens and the city lights up. As the Needle towers over other buildings, the observation deck truly does offer the best vistas of the city. Seattle appears as a sea of twinkling lights, mesmerising and magical.

The Needle’s restaurant allows you to enjoy the view while dining. Make a reservation online and select one of the exciting multi-course food towers. You’ll also have access to the observation deck, where you can stay up until the turn of day. 

The 5th Avenue Theatre, found in Downtown Seattle, attracts hundreds of eager visitors with its exciting showcases of musical favourites and touring Broadway productions. A trip to the theatre is a good way to liven up the night with some fabulous singing and dancing.

The golden décor of the theatre itself is splendidly grand, making you feel as if you were transported to some sumptuous Renaissance ball. Book tickets beforehand if you’re aiming for an evening show as it’s the city’s most famous venue for musicals and Broadway productions.

Belltown, considered the trendy neighbourhood of the city, is home to impressive restaurants, stylish shops and happening bars. Located on the waterfront, the area particularly comes alive from the early evenings towards the end of the night, when locals and tourists flock to one of the pretty cocktail bars overlooking Elliott Bay.

If you prefer avoiding the typical happy hour wine, there are several delightful wine bars in the area offering a selection of exquisite wines. Pick up a bottle to share and enjoy it in the cool of the early evening on one of the cosy patios and watch Belltown go by.