Looking for something offbeat to do near Seattle? Look no further! From quirky art installations to spooky ghost tours, the Emerald City has plenty of weird and wacky attractions to explore. Whether you’re a local looking to mix up your routine or a visitor seeking unique experiences, these eight oddball destinations are sure to surprise and delight.
1. The Gum Wall
Seattle’s famous gum-covered alleyway located in Post Alley is one of the weirdest attractions in the city. Visitors are encouraged to add their own piece of gum to the wall and take photos in front of the colorful and sticky masterpiece.
2. Seattle’s Mystery Soda Machine
A vintage soda machine located in Capitol Hill has been dispensing random and obscure sodas since the 1990s. Nobody knows who restocks the machine or where the sodas come from, making it a truly mysterious attraction.
3. The Fremont Troll
Underneath the Aurora Bridge in the Fremont neighborhood lies a giant troll sculpture that appears to be crushing a Volkswagen Beetle. The sculpture was created in 1990 and has become a popular spot for tourists to take photos.
4. The Center for Wooden Boats
Located on Lake Union, the Center for Wooden Boats is a museum that celebrates the art of boat-making. Visitors can take free boat rides on the lake and even learn how to build their own boat. The Center for Wooden Boats (CWB) is a unique museum and boathouse located on the southern shore of Lake Union. The CWB’s mission is to preserve and share the maritime heritage of the Pacific Northwest, and they do so by displaying a collection of more than 100 classic wooden boats, including sailboats, rowboats, canoes, and kayaks. Visitors can also rent boats to paddle around Lake Union, attend workshops and classes on wooden boatbuilding, or take sailing lessons. The CWB is a great place to learn about Seattle’s maritime history and get out on the water for a fun and educational experience.
5. Marsh Island Bridge in Everett
This unique bridge, also known as the Trestle Bridge, spans over the Snohomish River delta and is a popular spot for bird watching and fishing. It may not be the most conventional tourist destination, but the views of the surrounding wetlands and wildlife make it a worthwhile visit. Plus, the bridge is open to pedestrians and cyclists, so it’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. Just be sure to bring a camera and binoculars to fully appreciate the beauty of this hidden gem.
6. The World’s Largest Shoe Museum
Located in nearby Seattle suburb of Lynnwood, the museum houses over 15,000 shoes and footwear-related artifacts. Visitors can see shoes worn by celebrities and historical figures, as well as bizarre and unusual footwear.
7. The Fremont Solstice Parade
A summer solstice parade that takes place in the Fremont neighborhood, featuring naked bicyclists, body-painted participants, and elaborate floats. The parade is a celebration of art, culture, and the human body.
8. The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
Also known as the Ballard Locks, this attraction is a set of locks that allows boats to pass between the saltwater of Puget Sound and the freshwater of Lake Union. Visitors can watch boats pass through the locks and visit the fish ladder to see salmon migrate upstream.
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