Explore Seattle in Wintertime
Cozy Spots, Outdoor Adventures, and Seasonal Delights
Winter is a magical time to explore Seattle whether you’re huddling up in cozy cafes, taking in breathtaking outdoor views, or diving into the city’s cultural scene. Here’s a guide to the best ways to experience Seattle during the winter months, with something for everyone to make the most of a visit to the Emerald City!
Warm Up at Seattle’s Cozy Coffee Shops
Seattle is known for its coffee, and there’s no better time to indulge in the local scene than during winter. Here are a few popular spots near Mayflower Park Hotel:
Storyville Coffee at Pike Place
Perched above the bustling Pike Place Market, Storyville Coffee is a cozy haven with a crackling fireplace and views of the market. Pair a warm mocha with one of their delicious cinnamon rolls for a sweet winter treat.
Elm Coffee Roasters
Located in the nearby Pioneer Square neighborhood, Elm Coffee Roasters offers a minimalist vibe and a focus on single-origin coffee beans. The perfect spot for warming up on a drizzly Seattle day, Elm’s precise coffee-making and clean aesthetic make it a local gem.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Located on Capitol Hill, this expansive, beautifully designed space takes coffee brewing to new heights. Visitors can explore the artistry behind small-lot Reserve coffees from around the world. In addition to classic espresso drinks, the Roastery offers unique, experimental beverages you won’t find at regular Starbucks stores, like nitro cold brews and barrel-aged creations. The ambiance is as warm and inviting as the coffee, with copper fixtures, oak wood accents, and a cozy library area.
Monorail Espresso
Looking for a cup to go? Just a short walk from the hotel, Monorail Espresso is famous for its rich espresso drinks and signature caramel lattes. As Seattle’s first espresso cart, established in 1980, it’s a local favorite with a standing-room setup that makes grabbing a quick cup before you explore easy and fun.
Explore Seattle’s Many Museums
For a day of indoor exploring, Seattle’s museums offer fascinating exhibits and unique cultural insights. From pop culture to fine art, here’s a list of must-see spots:
Seattle Art Museum (SAM)
Discover global art collections and rotating exhibits that make each visit unique. SAM is a fantastic way to explore the art world while staying warm.
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
Explore everything from sci-fi to rock ‘n’ roll at this colorful, interactive museum celebrating pop culture. It’s a fun, immersive experience perfect for all ages.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Marvel at Dale Chihuly’s glass sculptures, which take on an almost magical quality against a winter sky. The garden and indoor exhibits are mesmerizing and make for beautiful photos.
Seattle Asian Art Museum (SAAM)
Located in Volunteer Park, SAAM provides a serene setting to explore Asian art collections. It’s a lovely way to spend a quiet winter afternoon.
Nordic Museum
Head to Ballard for a dive into Scandinavian culture and history. This museum offers interactive exhibits perfect for exploring on a chilly day.
Embrace Outdoor Winter Adventures
With its mild winter weather, Seattle is a great place to enjoy the outdoors year-round. Winter brings a special beauty to nearby natural landmarks and iconic sites:
Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens Volcano Tour
Join a guided tour to these majestic volcanoes, snow-covered and breathtaking in winter. The tours offer stunning scenery and a chance to learn about the geology of the Pacific Northwest.
Drive to Snoqualmie Falls
This impressive waterfall is just a short drive from Seattle and looks even more magical in winter, especially with a touch of snow.
Ferry Ride to Bainbridge Island
Bundle up and take the iconic ferry to Bainbridge Island for a peaceful day trip. Enjoy small-town charm, cozy cafes, and the wintery waterfront.
Kubota Garden
This Japanese-inspired garden transforms into a serene winter wonderland. The winding paths and beautifully designed landscapes offer a peaceful, outdoor retreat.
Explore Seattle's Theater & Music Scene
Seattle’s arts and culture scene shines in winter with a lineup of concerts, plays, and special performances to enjoy indoors:
Concerts at Benaroya Hall
Benaroya Hall hosts a variety of winter performances by the Seattle Philharmonic Orchestra and the Seattle Symphony. The Seattle Chamber Music Society’s Winter Festival also offers a free recital before each show.
Marion Oliver McCaw Hall
McCaw Hall’s winter schedule is packed with beloved ballets and operas, including The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, Beauty and the Beast, and The Magic Flute. A perfect winter evening awaits!
Shows at The Paramount Theatre
The Paramount’s winter lineup includes hit musicals like Wicked, Back to the Future, Kimberly Akimbo, and Hamilton. This historic theater offers free tours on the first Saturday of each month, providing a great way to explore its storied past.
Annual Winter Events & Festivals
Seattle comes alive with seasonal events and festivities, making winter an enchanting time to visit:
Seattle Center Winterfest (Nov. 29–Dec. 31)
Winterfest at Seattle Center brings ice sculptures, live performances, and a charming outdoor ice rink near the Space Needle.
Seattle Marathon (Dec. 1)
The Seattle Marathon is a scenic race through the city’s iconic spots, perfect for runners or spectators cheering from the sidelines. This year, the marathon will be held on December 1st.
New Year’s Celebrations at the Space Needle (Dec. 31)
Ring in the New Year with a dazzling fireworks display from the Space Needle, lighting up the Seattle skyline.
Lunar New Year Celebrations (Jan. 29)
The Lunar New Year marks the new year on the lunar calendar. Celebrated widely across Asia, 2025 will usher in the Year of the Snake on January 29th. In Seattle, neighborhoods and organizations host events featuring food, cultural dances, ceremonies, and fireworks—some even starting before January 29th.
Seattle Boat Show (Jan. 31–Feb. 8)
Boating enthusiasts will love the Seattle Boat Show, featuring exhibits, seminars, and all things maritime.
Northwest Flower and Garden Festival (Feb. 19–23)
The Seattle Convention Center transforms into a floral oasis during the Northwest Flower and Garden Festival. Enjoy inspiring displays, gardening workshops, and artisanal goods.
Seattle has something for everyone during the winter season. From cozy coffee shops to thrilling winter adventures, it’s the perfect place to soak up the season’s magic. So grab your warmest coat and a hot drink, and come explore the Emerald City!
