Get yourself ready for a fun spring and summer in Seattle. Whether you are visiting from another state or some city across Washington, here are 5 secret places you’ve got to try on your next trip. (That’s presuming you haven’t been there before or it’s been a while since your visit.)

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1 . Smith Tower

506 N 2nd Ave, Downtown

Observatory inside Smith Tower in Seattle
Smith Tower via Google Maps
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Ceiling inside Smith Tower in Seattle
Smith Tower via Google Maps
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Smith Tower 506 N 2nd Ave in Seattle
Smith Tower via Google Maps
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What is the Smith Tower? It is a huge skyscraper that is a throwback to the mid 1920s. Closed on Mondays but open 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. every other day, which means you can go have breathtaking views of the city (should it be a clear day or night, that is). It costs $19 to go up to the observatory on the 35th floor. (Note: On Saturdays, they are open until 10 o’clock at night.) There’s even a swanky little bar you can take your out-of-town friends to, or treat yourself. Peek at the menu here.

2 . Secret Beach

6321 Seaview Ave NW

You won’t see any big signs for this hidden beach so you’ll have to rely on your GPS to *hopefully* lead you to the right spot. Locals like to go there for light kayaking, sunbathing, and just hanging out and having fun.

 

3 . Schmitz Preserve Park

5551 SW Admiral Way

Schmitz Preserve Park in Seattle
Schmitz Preserve park via Google Streetview
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Overgrown Forest in Schmitz Preserve Park
Schmitz Preserve park via Google Streetview
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Schmitz Preserve Park
Schmitz Preserve park via Google Streetview
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Ask any AI machine about secret places in Seattle and this place will likely pop up (that’s what I did). I’ve never heard of it but it’s part of the Washington state trails. The property is known for having belonged to an affluent businessman and former Seattle City Councilman, Ferdinand Schmitz. He and his wife, Emma bought property after making great wealth after the Great Fire, then later generously donated most of it to the City. Enjoy “overgrown” forests, hiking trails, and a little beach for a treat.

4 . Seattle Asian Art Museum 

1400 E Prospect St

Seattle Asian Art Museum
Seattle Asian Art Museum via Google Maps
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Art Display inside Seattle Asian Art Museum
Seattle Asian Art Museum via Google Maps
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This spectacular museum is only open Fridays thru Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., so plan accordingly. I visited there with my daughter when she was 2 years old and I remember it being such a pleasant experience and I can’t wait to go back for a visit some ten years later. The architecture alone is worth the visit but while you’re there, enjoy some of the exhibits from many Asian cultures. To see some of the current exhibits in house, click here.

5 . Ohana Belltown 

54106 Mountain Hwy E

Inside Ohana Belltown
Ohana Belltown via Google Street View
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Ohana Belltown
Ohana Belltown via Google Street View
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Ohana Belltown
Ohana Belltown via Google Street View
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If your kids love sushi and you love Hawaiian food, check out Ohana’s in Belltown. The vibe inside is very tiki and fun. You’ll swear you stepped into a portal that leads to Hawaii on the other side of it. The booths, lighting, decor, and food are seasoned with beachy vibes and good times. Don’t want to go with the kids? They have a peppy happy hour, case closed! Tempt your taste buds by looking at the menu here.

Want some more hidden gems in Seattle? Check out this bar that is so secret, they have to buzz you in!

RELATED: This Secret Hideaway Seattle Bar Is So Cool, They Buzz You In

 

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