This Quiet Washington City Is An Underrated Gem For Nature Lovers

Washington is one of America's most beautiful states, and the region opens up many opportunities for nature enthusiasts. The Olympic Mountains offer soaring heights and trails, while the San Juan Islands are a coastal retreat perfect for waterfront activities. Many cities and towns in the state are ideal for accessing these activities, such as Leavenworth with its ski resorts and Port Townsend along the Olympic Peninsula. That said, unbeknownst to many, the metropolis of Seattle is also a charming natural destination, often overlooked due to its urban vibe.

Home to over 750,000 residents and the most populous city in Washington, Seattle is a bustling economic and tourism hub in the state. Most people are drawn to the nightlife, great food, and artificial landmarks like the Space Needle and Seattle Great Wheel. While these are undoubtedly iconic places to visit, Seattle is also a natural charmer home to many quiet and serene attractions. From its various waterfront areas to its quaint parks that present a reprieve of solace among busy streets, there is much nature to explore.

Seattle's Natural Charm: An Overlooked Side

As one of the most populous areas in the United States, Seattle is known for its thriving economy and array of urban landmarks. Due to this, the natural side of this metropolis often goes overlooked. The lively city rests between the Puget Sound and Lake Washington, opening up endless waterfront scenery. Moreover, it is within driving distance of many major mountain ranges, including the Olympic Mountains and Cascade Ranges, offering majestic sights and plenty of other benefits. For example, Seattle's location between the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains frequently brings in moist air and rain, warranting the nickname "Rain City."

In addition to the rain, Seattle lies in an oceanic climate (Csb) according to the Koppen Climate Classification. This climate zone is defined by cool, wet winters and mild summers, promoting flora and fauna in the region. To this end, elk, marmots, mountain goats, and black bears thrive in the surrounding mountains. In the nearby waters of Puget Sound, visitors can spot orcas, sea lions, and even harbor seals. With such biodiversity, many natural areas in and around Seattle shine, showcasing the hidden charm of this outdoor retreat in Washington State.

Natural Attractions and Activities

Hidden between the paved streets and businesses of Seattle are plenty of quiet natural gems. These activities and attractions showcase the city's strong connection with Mother Nature, opening up all kinds of outdoor experiences. From walking trails among beautiful foliage during the fall to a lively zoo where you can meet many friendly animals, the possibilities are endless. The following areas are some of the best options when it comes to nature in and around Seattle.

Kerry Park

Located in the heart of Queen Anne Hill in Seattle, Kerry Park is a breath of fresh air amidst the suburban jungle. While it is just over one acre in size, this small park is full of life, from its quaint walking trails to its playground, perfect for kids. If you want to relax, there are several benches with city views for a mix of rural and urban scenery. In the center of the park is Changing Form, an iconic sculpture that is over 15 feet tall, making for a fantastic photo spot. If this is not enough, visitors can also use the connected stairway to reach Bayview Kinnear Park, a larger option with landscaping paths, gathering areas, and tons of foliage.

Woodland Park Zoo

Animal lovers rejoice at the Woodland Park Zoo is a magnificent zoological garden with diverse wildlife. The zoo is a wildlife conservation organization that spans over 90 acres and has 250 species of animals. Visitors can choose between many exhibits, such as the Tropical Rainforest, home to colobus monkeys and ring-tailed lemurs in a habitat similar to Africa’s jungles. The Trails of Adaptation building is another hotspot with Komodo dragons, while Tropical Asia houses the infamous Indian rhinoceros and Malayan tiger. In addition to the regular exhibits, the zoo also hosts events like the OktoBEARfest, a celebration of beer and bears in October.

Seattle Aquarium

Swapping out the land for water, the Seattle Aquarium is just as vibrant an attraction. Opened in 1977, this public aquarium is a hit with tourists, seeing over 800,000 visitors annually. It is also divided into three sections: Pier 59, Pier 60, and the Ocean Pavillion. Pier 59 consists of various sections, housing animals like moon jellies, sea stars, and even the Giant Pacific octopus, a fan favorite. Meanwhile, Pier 60 is a massive 400,000 US-gallon tank that offers an Underwater Dome experience with 360-degree views of marine life. One can spot large species such as salmon, sharks, seals, and more in this exhibit. Last but not least, Ocean Pavillion continues the large animals, with sharks and sting rays stealing the show, so you will meet hundreds of marine animals in this wonderful destination.

Alki Beach Park

If the marine life's watery habitat seemed comfortable, Alki Beach Park should be on your list. This 135-acre park features an expansive stretch of land along Elliott Bay, perfect for waterfront activities. Most people can be seen sunbathing along the coast as the waves crash in for a picture-perfect experience. One can also head into the water to swim in the cool waters straight from the Pacific Ocean. With the city views on one side and the water on the other, this attraction is a gem rarely found elsewhere.

Wilderness and Boating Tours

Aside from the attractions within Seattle, there are also plenty of things to see and do nearby. Plenty of tour companies host amazing tours of everything from the nearby mountains to the Pacific coastline. Evergreen Escapes is a great tour operator to consider. Their four-day San Juan Islands Hiking and Kayaking Tour is a world of fun with beaches, tidepools, kayaking, food, and more. Or, opt for their three-day Olympic National Park ‘Vanishing Silence’ Tour. This trip showcases old-growth forests, waterfalls, and lakes, with accommodation at the Kalaloch Lodge. On the other hand, the nearby Savor the Wild Tours is another great tour operator with neat experiences like mushroom foraging, outdoor cooking, and seafood gathering.

Travel Tips

To make the most of your time in Seattle, consider visiting during late spring or early fall when the weather is mild, and the city's parks and waterfront areas are at their most vibrant and quiet. Summer is also a popular time to visit, especially for outdoor activities like kayaking in Puget Sound or relaxing at Alki Beach Park. However, pack layers regardless of the season, as Seattle's weather can be unpredictable, with sudden drizzles even in warmer months.

Public transportation is efficient and widely used in Seattle, with buses, light rail, and ferries making it easy to navigate the city and its surroundings. However, if you plan to explore areas outside the city, like the Olympic National Park or the Cascade Mountains, renting a car is recommended for greater flexibility. Lastly, Seattle is a popular tourist destination, so consider booking accommodations and any tours in advance, especially during summer or major events like the Seattle International Film Festival.

Experience Washington's Natural Side in Seattle

While Seattle is often celebrated for its urban landmarks and lively cultural scene, its quiet natural beauty offers an equally compelling reason to visit. From the serene trails of Kerry Park to the diverse wildlife at the Woodland Park Zoo and the stunning marine life at the Seattle Aquarium, the city seamlessly blends urban charm with nature’s wonders. Whether you are kayaking the Puget Sound, exploring lush green parks, or taking in breathtaking mountain views, Seattle reveals a side that is often overshadowed by its skyline.