Visiting the Seattle Center with kids? Here’s some of the best family-friendly things to do

Seattle Center is one of the most popular places to visit in Seattle, especially for families looking for several things to do in one area.

Kids can explore hands-on science exhibits, experiment with music, see colorful glass art, ride the Monorail, and take in views of Seattle from the Space Needle.

With several of the city’s major attractions within walking distance of each other, the 74-acre campus makes it easy to spend a few hours or an entire day exploring with kids.

Here are some of the best family-friendly things to do at Seattle Center.

Start with a ride on the Seattle Center Monorail

Families coming from downtown can reach Seattle Center aboard the Seattle Center Monorail, which travels between Westlake Center and the campus in about two minutes.

The monorail offers an easy alternative to driving and parking, and riders can enjoy views of the streets below. It drops visitors off close to the Space Needle, museums, and other Seattle Center attractions.

Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the monorail can also be considered a Seattle attraction itself, giving families a chance to ride a piece of the city’s history before arriving near the Space Needle, museums, and other Seattle Center attractions.

Ticket prices begin at $4 one-way, and $8 roundtrip.

Take in the views from the Space Needle

For a view from above, families can visit the Space Needle, a 605-foot-tall landmark built for the 1962 World’s Fair.

Its upper observation level sits 520 feet above the ground, with indoor viewing areas and an open-air deck where visitors can take in the city.

Those comfortable with heights can also explore The Loupe, a revolving glass floor on the level below that offers a look down at the tower’s structure and surrounding grounds.

Admission tickets to the Space Needle range from $35 to $55 per person.

Explore Pacific Science Center

The Pacific Science Center features two popular exhibits for families, including the Tropical Butterfly House and live planetarium presentations.

The science center gives families a chance to learn about the human body, outer space, engineering, and more.

The Tropical Butterfly House features hundreds of butterflies flying among tropical plants. Visitors can use identification guides to learn more about the different species and their habitat.

Families can also catch a live planetarium presentation exploring space and astronomy. Planetarium shows are included with general admission but require timed tickets. Reservations are recommended because seating is limited.

General admission prices range from $23 to $31, depending on the date.

Discounted admission is available for youth ages 3 to 17 and seniors ages 65 and older. Children under 3 are free. Washington residents also receive discounted admission, with proof of residency required when entering.

Visit Seattle Children’s Museum

For families with younger children, the Seattle Children’s Museum offers spaces for imaginative play, building and exploring.

Its neighborhood exhibits let children pretend to shop at a market, care for animals at a veterinary clinic, or work at a fire station.

Other areas include a construction zone and theater, giving children several ways to create their own activities.

Make time for Artists at Play

Families looking for an outdoor stop can visit Artists at Play, a free playground between the Museum of Pop Culture and Seattle Center Armory.

The play area includes a 30-foot climbing tower recommended for children ages 5 to 12, along with musical instruments, listening stations, swings, and an accessible, human-powered carousel.

The focus on sound gives children a chance to make music and explore how different parts of the playground respond to movement and play.

Stop at the International Fountain

Families visiting Seattle Center when the weather is warmer can check out the International Fountain. The fountain offers another place for families to spend time outdoors, with water jets that spray in patterns set to music.

Children can play in the fountain bowl when it is operating, while families looking for a break can relax on the surrounding lawn.

The fountain dates back to the World’s Fair, though it was rebuilt in 1995 to make the dome and surrounding area more accessible for play.

Make music at the Museum of Pop Culture

Families interested in music can explore Sound Lab at the Museum of Pop Culture, also known as MOPOP.

Visitors can play guitars, drums, and keyboards while learning how music is recorded and mixed. Families can make music together or take part in guided activities that introduce them to different instruments.

Sound Lab is included with general admission.

Tickets to MoPOP generally cost around $35 to $45, although prices vary by date.

Explore Chihuly Garden and Glass

Near the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass offers families a chance to see the work of glass artist Dale Chihuly.

Visitors can explore indoor galleries, a garden with glass sculptures among the plants and a Glasshouse featuring a suspended, 100-foot-long sculpture in red, orange and yellow.

Families curious about how the pieces are made can also watch live glassblowing demonstrations.

Admission to Chihuly Garden and Glass cost between $40 and $45 for adults. Visitors can also purchase a combo ticket that includes admission to the Space Needle, starting at $74.

Grab a bite at the Armory

Families looking for lunch or a snack can stop at Seattle Center Armory Food & Event Hall.

Food choices include pizza, tacos, sandwiches, and seafood, making it an option for groups with different tastes.

Visitors can also check Seattle Center’s event calendar for cultural festivals and other activities happening during their visit.