Top Washington Arts & Design in 2026

Spend less time waiting in line at the Museum of Flight, and spend more time learning about the history—and future—of aviation. This pre-booked admission ticket grants you access to the world's largest private air and space museum, home to more than 160 air and spacecrafts, from the Boeing 787 Dreamliner to the Supersonic Concord, as well as interactive exhibits and tens of thousands of artifacts.

Discover a world where reality bends at Museum of Illusions Seattle. With over 50 interactive exhibits, guests can challenge their perceptions and engage their sense of wonder. Experience gravity-defying installations, life-size kaleidoscopes, and mind-bending holograms that play tricks on your senses. This unique attraction is perfect for families, friends, and couples looking for a memorable outing. Conveniently located in downtown Seattle, just minutes from Pike Place Market, the Seattle Art Museum, Seattle Aquarium and more!

Get up close with the killer whales of Anacortes, the home port to the San Juan Islands, on this whale-watching cruise led by naturalist guides. Climb aboard a Blackfish fleet vessel and travel through some of the most picturesque scenery in the Pacific Northwest searching for orca, humpback, and gray whales. Along the way, see ocean wildlife in their natural environment, like seals, porpoises, sea lions and otters—plus a wide variety of birds and more.

Discover Seattle’s original neighborhood, Pioneer Square, on this guided walking tour that is great for locals and tourists alike who want to learn more about this city. Explore the underground pathways that were built in the southwest corner of the Emerald City more than 120 years ago. Learn about Seattle’s history and the events that transformed this once-small Indigenous dwelling place into one of the most popular and thriving cities in the United States.

Get up close with the orca whales off the San Juan Islands near Seattle on this half-day whale-watching cruise. San Juan Island is where the southern resident killer whales live about six months out of the year, from mid-April to October. It’s also considered one of the best places to view orca whales.

This walking tour of Seattle is a great way to acquaint yourself with the city in just a few hours. Leave with a solid overview of the different neighborhoods, the city's history, and its major sites, even if you're short on time. Unlike other walking tours, you'll also enjoy a scenic ride on Seattle's historic monorail.

Seattle is famous for its bustling waterfront, numerous green spaces, and historic neighborhoods. Ideal for first-time visitors, this sightseeing tour provides an overview of top attractions such as Pioneer Square, the Space Needle, and Pike Place market. Sit back and relax while your guide provides historical and cultural background for each destination, and enjoy stops to walk and take photos.

The most instagrammable space in the nation with over 30 installations and all necessary equipment to create amazing pictures and priceless memories.

- Only long-term Exhibition that showcases artist Dale Chihuly’s work - Located at Seattle Center - Free digital photos - Free audio tour - Unique space with a garden & glasshouse - Live glass demonstrations year-round - Everything included in the ticket – no upcharges for smartphone audio tour, gallery talks, live glass demonstrations. - Garden is vibrant during all four seasons – spring and fall are particularly unique times in the ever-changing Garden.

Delve into the dark world of criminal psychology at the Mind of a Serial Killer Exhibition in New York City. This immersive experience blends true crime storytelling with forensic science, offering a unique look at the motivations and methods behind infamous criminal cases. Navigate through themed environments filled with multimedia exhibits and interactive displays, while gaining insights into criminal profiling and investigative techniques. Designed for mature audiences, this exhibition presents sensitive subjects in a respectful manner, making it both an educational and thought-provoking visit for those intrigued by the complexities of criminal behavior.

Come See The Fun Side of Seattle! The Henry Immersive Experience is a truly unique sightseeing tour. Hop aboard the most colorful tour bus you have ever been on and get ready to explore Seattle through the eyes of artists. As we visit over 20 colorful murals painted by Henry we will learn more about the artist, the development of several of Seattle's most iconic neighborhoods and how art is central to the vibrancy of our city. Our dedicated tour guide will provide an entertaining and slightly educational adventure that will be fun for the whole family. Along the way we will visit the "Hidden Wizard Gallery" to view a collection of Henry's most creative canvas paintings, see two more murals and browse through a selection of Henry merchandise. There will be a couple of stops along the way to grab a tasty beverage, take a break if needed and get up and close with some of Henry's art for that photo that will keep you smiling all year long. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Experience the food and culture at one of Seattle’s most famous landmarks, Pike Place Market, on this 2-hour, chef-guided food tour. See where chefs shop and locals hang out and enjoy diverse tastings at several different stops — places such as Beecher's ‘World's Best’ Mac and Cheese, Pike Place Chowder, local artisan chocolate shops and more. Feel like a market insider on this behind-the-scenes adventure to savor the flavors, as well as the sights and sounds, of this historic attraction.

Discover Seattle's vibrant cultural district on a private walking tour with a local guide. Explore the area surrounding the iconic Space Needle as you uncover city's history, architecture, art, and music. See landmarks including the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the International Fountain while learning the stories that shaped the city. Then ascend 520 feet to the top of the Space Needle with included admission and enjoy spectacular 360-degree views of Seattle, Puget Sound, and Mount Rainier. With a private guide and personalized experience, this tour is the perfect introduction to one of Seattle's most iconic neighborhoods. Highlights - Private walking tour of Seattle Center and Uptown - Enjoy 360-degree views of Seattle and Puget Sound - See MoPOP, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the International Fountain - Learn about Seattle's history, culture, and music scene - Personalized experience with a local guide

Unlock clues on your phone and solve unique challenges while learning about the innovators who helped shape this unique Pacific Northwest city. Challenges will take place at well known landmarks, as well as little known gems throughout the city. As challenges are solved, you will be guided to your next destination. No guide is needed, this tour can be done on your own time, at your own pace. Enjoy the adventure!

Experience the natural beauty of Mt. Rainier with the help of a guide to lead the way on this full-day group tour from Seattle. Enjoy a scenic, narrated journey past lakes, waterfalls, historic towns, and Mt. Rainier. Take in spectacular views from Narada Falls, considered the most popular waterfall in Mt. Rainier National Park, and the aptly named Paradise. Includes pickup and drop-off from select downtown Seattle and airport hotels for your convenience.

On this two-in-one Snoqualmie Falls and Washington State wineries tour, experience highlights beyond Seattle that many other visitors miss. With round-trip transit included, getting out into nature—and visiting beauty spots including the mighty falls—is made simple. Along the way, visit at least two top-rated estate wineries, where you can enjoy guided tastings (own expense).

Now On View: Nordic Journeys, our core exhibition, which takes visitors on a journey through 12,000 years of Nordic history The Vikings Begin, a stunning exhibition of original artifacts that tells the story of the Vikings of early Scandinavia Eyesound, a Danish/Icelandic exhibition of photography and poetry, celebrating 100 years of Icelandic sovereignty No bags, large purses, or backpacks are allowed in the galleries. Paid parking is available on the south side of the Museum. Day-of tickets can also be purchased at the Admissions Desk.

NOTE: MIN OF 4 REQUIRED TO BOOK TOUR. Explore Street Hues: Seattle Urban Art Tour, a small group walking experience created in partnership with 206 Zulu and Global Family Travels. You’ll learn about the roots and evolution of street art culture in Seattle, discover the stories behind iconic murals and community-driven art, and gain a deeper understanding of street art as a tool for social change. From “sticker bombs” and stencil art to massive collaborative murals, this tour celebrates the creativity of the artists who shape Seattle’s evolving visual landscape.

See Seattle the way locals do on this private, fully narrated driving tour that blends iconic landmarks, neighborhood character, and the stories that bring the city to life. Designed as a relaxed, small-group experience, this tour goes beyond the typical checklist. Cruise through historic districts like Pioneer Square and the International District, follow the waterfront, and pass Lake Union and the Amazon Spheres while your guide connects Seattle’s past, present, and everyday local life. Enjoy photo stops at the Space Needle and Kerry Park, watch boats move between lakes and sea at the Ballard Locks, and snap a fun photo with the city’s famously quirky Fremont Troll. The experience naturally concludes near Pike Place Market, where you can explore the market’s food, shops, and lively atmosphere at your own pace. If you prefer, return drop-off to local hotels, Sea-Tac Airport, or cruise ship terminals is available instead.

Make your arrival at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport totally hassle-free with this prebooked transfer service. Skip the taxis and shuttles, and travel with confidence, aboard a private vehicle. Choose from a 3-person sedan, a 5-passenger van, or a 6-person SUV to fit your group's needs. Then, sit back and relax en route to your Seattle, Bellevue, or Kirkland accommodation.

Experience Bainbridge Island the way locals do. This tour combines a scenic Washington State Ferry crossing, charming waterfront streets, fascinating World War II history, beautiful parks, and Thomas Dambo’s famous wooden troll. With hotel pickup, round-trip ferry tickets included, and a knowledgeable local driver-guide, you’ll enjoy a relaxed, authentic Pacific Northwest experience beyond Seattle.

Step into Seattle’s pop culture universe at MoPOP, home to iconic music legends, sci-fi memorabilia, and interactive exhibits. From Jimi Hendrix to Marvel heroes, skip the line and immerse yourself in the stories that shaped modern culture. Highlights: - Explore the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) with a 5-Star Licensed Guide - Skip the line and dive into interactive exhibits on music, film, and video games - Learn about pop culture icons like Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, and cinematic universes - Discover the history and impact of music, film, and video games on society - Enjoy expert commentary on MoPOP’s iconic exhibits and collections This star-studded experience with Rosotravel takes you to the heart of Seattle’s creative scene. Enjoy Skip-the-Line Tickets and a Private Licensed Guide on an unforgettable journey through the pop culture universe at MoPOP. Dive into the stories behind the icons—book your tour today and let your imagination run wild!

Explore Seattle in a unique way, following clues and solving puzzles as you learn about the city's history and event surrounding the Klondike Gold Rush, the Seattle Underground and Great Seattle Fire. As you solve each challenge, you'll be brought to many exciting and historic locations throughout downtown. No map, GPS or tour guide needed, and the game is done on your desired time and at your own pace (typical completion time is about 1.5 hours.)