Jul 10, 2024
The Best Time to Visit Seattle: A Seasonal Guide
Deciding when to visit the vibrant Emerald City, Seattle? Your decision depends on what you're looking for during your trip. Seattle offers something unique each season, though your trip's perfect timing would vary depending on your interests. This guide will help provide insight into Seattle's seasonal charms.
Best vs Worst Weather to Visit Seattle
Best Weather: Seattle generally experiences the best weather between late June to early September, offering warm, sunny days and mild nights.
Worst Weather: The months from November to early February can be overcast and rainy with a high chance of heavy precipitations, although snow is rare.
Cheapest Time to go to Seattle vs. Most Expensive Time to travel to Seattle
Cheapest Time to Visit: The most budget-friendly time to visit Seattle is during the late fall and winter months, excluding holidays, when there's higher rainfall.
Most Expensive Time to Visit: Accommodation rates peak during the summer (July to Early September), which coincides with the best weather.
Average hotel prices:
- Winter: $70-$100 per night
- Summer: $150-$200 per night
Busiest Time to see Seattle vs. Least Busy Time to Visit Seattle
Busiest Time to Visit: The summer is the most popular time to visit Seattle, with tourists flocking to the city to enjoy outdoor activities.
Least Busy Time to Visit: The city sees fewer tourists during the rainy season, from November to early February.
Special Events Worth Seeing in Seattle
Seattle is known for its vibrant events:
- Bumbershoot (Labor Day Weekend): An international music and arts festival.
- Seattle International Film Festival (May-June): One of the top film festivals in North America.
- Pike Place Market’s Street Festival (August): Celebrating the city's rich culture with food, music, and crafts.
Recommended time of year to go to Seattle
- High Season: July to September
- Shoulder Season: April to June and September to October
- Low Season: November to March
High Season in Seattle (July to September)
Weather: Expect warm weather, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F.
Events: Numerous music and art festivals occur during these months.
Things to Do: This is an excellent time for outdoor activities like hiking, boating, or attending outdoor concerts.
Prices: Due to the influx of tourists, expect higher prices for flights and accommodations during this period.
Shoulder Season in Seattle (April to June and September to October)
Weather: These months offer moderate temperatures, with a mix of rainy and sunny days.
Events: The Seattle International Film Festival takes place during late May to June.
Things to Do: Explore city's landmarks, museums, and Pike Place Market.
Prices: You can find reasonable prices for flights and accommodations during this period.
Low Season (November to March)
Weather: Unless you're a fan of rain, these months can be quite chilly and rainy.
Events: Fewer events take place in Seattle during these months, but it can be a good time for indoor activities and enjoying Seattle's coffee culture.
Prices: Due to the low tourist influx, you can score great deals on accommodations and flights.
Conclusion Regarding the Perfect Time to Travel to Seattle
For outdoor enthusiasts and festival-goers, plan your visit from July to September when the weather is most outdoor-friendly.
Budget travelers should aim for November through March when the prices are much lower, keeping in mind that these months are rainier.
For a balanced experience, consider visiting during the shoulder season from April to June or September to October when the weather is comfortable and the city is less crowded.
Seattle, being a city that is bustling all year round, will surely welcome you regardless of when you choose to visit.
You can visit closer places in the state of Washington, here is a guide with the best information!
