The Perfect Weekend in Seattle, WA for Outdoorsy Craft Beer Lovers
Seattle, Washington is a vibrant city with a thriving outdoor scene and a burgeoning craft beer industry. For those looking to spend a perfect weekend in Seattle, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy. In this post, we will explore the best outdoorsy/active things to do in Seattle, as well as the top craft breweries to visit in town.
We've also organized the breweries by neighborhood to make it easy to plan your weekend brewery crawl!
Our Favorite Outdoor Activities in Seattle
Seattle is a city that is surrounded by natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From the rugged peaks of the Cascade and Olympic Mountains to the serene waters of Puget Sound, Seattle offers a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy. The city itself is also home to many parks and green spaces, making it easy to find a place to hike, bike, or simply relax in nature. Some of the most popular outdoor activities in Seattle include hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, skiing, and snowboarding. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor adventurer or a beginner looking to try something new, there's something for everyone in Seattle.
Hike in Discovery Park
Discovery Park is a 534-acre natural area park located on the shores of Puget Sound. With over 11 miles of hiking trails, it's the perfect place to explore the natural beauty of Seattle.
Kayak on Lake Union
Rent a kayak and paddle around Lake Union to see the Seattle skyline from a different perspective. Kayaks can be rented at several locations around the lake.
Bike the Burke-Gilman Trail
This 27-mile trail follows the shoreline of Lake Washington and the Ship Canal, offering beautiful views of the water and cityscape. Bikes can be rented at several locations in the city.
Visit Pike Place Market
No visit to Seattle is complete without a trip to Pike Place Market. Wander through the stalls of fresh produce, seafood, and handmade crafts while enjoying the sights and sounds of this iconic market. Oh, and you can even enjoy a brew at The Pike Place Brewing Company.
Hang in the Sunshine at Alki Beach
Alki Beach is a beautiful stretch of sandy beach located in West Seattle that offers a variety of outdoor activities. With stunning views of the Seattle skyline and the Olympic Mountains, Alki Beach is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the waterfront. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and beach volleyball. Additionally, there are several restaurants and cafes along the beach, making it a great spot to grab a bite to eat while enjoying the scenery.
Check Out the Historic Gasworks Park
Gasworks Park is a unique and picturesque park located in the Fremont neighborhood of Seattle. The park sits on the site of a former gasification plant, and remnants of the plant's structures remain, providing an industrial backdrop to the park's green spaces. From the top of Kite Hill, visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Seattle's skyline and Lake Union. The park's amenities include a large play area for children, picnic tables, and grills. It's also a popular spot for kite flying, as well as watching seaplanes take off and land on the lake. With its interesting history and beautiful views, Gasworks Park is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Seattle.
The Best Craft Breweries in Seattle
Seattle is a city that takes its craft beer seriously. With more than 200 breweries in the state of Washington and counting, it's no surprise that Seattle boasts a thriving craft brewing scene. From traditional German-style beers to experimental brews made with locally sourced ingredients, there's a beer for every taste in Seattle. The city's neighborhoods are home to numerous craft breweries, each with its own unique style and atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned beer enthusiast or just looking to try something new, Seattle's craft beer scene is sure to impress.
Ballard Neighborhood Breweries
Located in the northwestern part of the city, Ballard is known for its Scandinavian heritage and thriving food and drink scene. It's also a hub for craft beer, with numerous breweries located within walking distance of each other, and some of our favorites include:
Fremont Neighborhood Breweries
Fremont is located just north of downtown Seattle and is known for its quirky art installations and independent spirit. The neighborhood also boasts a lively craft beer scene, with several breweries to choose from. Here are a few of our favorite spots we recommend:
As a bonus, we love Botanicale (a plant shop and bottle shop), as well as Mr. B’s (an urban meadery!).
Capitol Hill Neighborhood Breweries
Capitol Hill is a vibrant neighborhood just east of downtown Seattle that is home to a diverse mix of residents, restaurants, and bars. It's also a great place to find craft beer, with numerous breweries scattered throughout the neighborhood, including:
A bit on the outskirts of Cap Hill, you can find one of our top black-owned breweries, Metier Brewing Co.
Georgetown Neighborhood Breweries
Georgetown is a historic neighborhood located in the southern part of the city. It's known for its industrial charm and eclectic mix of businesses, including several great breweries, such as:
By exploring the outdoor activities and craft beer scene in Seattle, you'll be able to experience the best of what the city has to offer. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's always something new and exciting to discover in Seattle.
Cheers to exploring the PNW!