Are you looking for the best things to do in Capitol Hill, Seattle? If so, keep reading!
So you’re looking for things to do in Capitol Hill, Seattle? Well, hopefully, this list will give you plenty of ideas, as well as places to eat too!
Because eating amazing food is also what I class a fun!
Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood is amongst the city’s most popular, and it is not difficult to see why – especially with so many things to do there.
This neighborhood has personality and packs a punch, and we love it.
With stunning gardens, a hopping night scene, and some of the area’s most popular attractions, it’s an absolute must-visit if you’re planning a trip to Washington’s Emerald City, and there are so many things to do in Capitol Hill, Seattle.
Perhaps the most wonderful thing about Capitol Hill is that you needn’t stray far to find something to do.
Should you grow peckish on your travels, never fear, for we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to eat in Capitol Hill too!
So, without further ado, let’s dive right into it…
Things to do in Capitol Hill, Seattle…
Volunteer Park
First on my list of things to do in Capitol Hill, it’s Volunteer Park. Volunteer Park is by far one of the most stunning parks in Seattle, and absolutely deserves a place on our list!
If you decide to pay this park a visit, then be sure to visit the massive on-site conservatory that’s home to several unique cacti and ferns.
However, unique trees and succulents are not the only sights on offer here. With various sculptures and wading pools on offer at Volunteer Park, you’ll find yourself easily able to spend an entire afternoon exploring here.
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Grab cake at The Wandering Goose
Next on my list of things to do in Capitol Hill, Seattle, it’s grabbing some sweet treats from The Wandering Goose.
The Wandering Goose is an amazing restaurant located in Captiol Hill, but alongside their entrees, they also have the most amazing selection of desserts and cake you’ve ever seen!
If you’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth, then I highly recommend stopping by and grabbing a slice of something nice!
Seattle Asian Art Museum
Located in the midst of Volunteer Park in Capitol Hill is the Seattle Asian Art Museum. Though it’s not a huge museum, it’s got some truly unique exhibits that are not to be missed.
We highly recommend checking out the coloured vase exhibit by the artist Ai Weiwei. This is a really great option for things to do in Capitol Hill.
Though there are several great permanent collections to check out here, be sure to check in with the museum for the latest temporary exhibits too!
Go thrift shopping
I don’t know about you, but I love shopping at goodwill stores and thrift stores, and Capitol Hill has lots of great little thrift stores to explore!
You can find so much great stuff at a thrift store, or at goodwill, and it’s always worth taking your time and spending a few hours searching for the hidden gems!
Goodwill stores are great for the environment (secondhand helps save waste!) but also, they’re just really fun.
I love seeing what treasures you can find hidden away on some random shelf or rack! If you’re looking for quirky things to do in Capitol Hill, this ticks the boxes!
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Japanese Garden
Japanese Gardens are next on my list of things to do in Capitol Hill. They are all the rage in U.S. cities, and Seattle’s Japanese Garden is amongst the most beautiful.
If you’re looking for something to do in Capitol Hill that will calm your nerves and impart some zen, then this is the place to be.
Spanning over 3 acres, this sprawling garden is the perfect place to sit and relax with a book.
Such a beautiful way to spend the day!
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Grab ice cream at Dick’s Drive-In
Next on my list of things to do in Capitol Hill, it’s grabbing ice cream (or anything to be honest!) from Dock’s Drive-In.
I kid you not, the strawberry ice cream from Dick’s is some of the best I’ve ever had! So I 100% recommend checking it out!
It’s also a great choice because it’s quirky, cute and unique. I love the retro-style drive-through and decor too!
Twice Sold Tales
Next up on my list, it’s the AMAZING Twice Sold Tales.
If you haven’t heard of Twice Sold Tales, prepare to fall in love, because this is definitely one of the best things to do in Capitol Hill.
This cosy second-hand bookstore is one of the most charming and beautiful stores in the city.
Why? Because there are cats! Yes you read that right. This is a secondhand book store with a twist! Because inside the bookstore, are lots of cats waiting to get cuddles.
Lakeview Cemetery
It’s a bit of a weird one to include a cemetery on our list of things to do in Capitol Hill, but If you’re a fan of Bruce and Brandon Lee, then be sure to pay a visit to the Lakeview Cemetery.
Though this is undoubtedly one of the Capitol Hill area’s more sombre spots, it’s a lovely spot in which to pay tribute to two of the world’s most beloved talents.
Though Bruce and Brandon Lee are only two of the may buried here, it’s a stunning cemetery that is extremely peaceful to walk through if you’re looking for a quiet afternoon in Seattle.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Next up on my list of things to do in Capitol Hill, it’s coffee! Of course!
Seattle is famous for its coffee, and if you didn’t already know, Starbucks actually started here! So, if you’re a fan of the famous coffee company, then why not pay a visit to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery on Capitol Hill?
In this particular location, you’ll be able to watch coffee beans be processed and ready for use by baristas. Though it doesn’t quite meld with the phrase ‘farm to table’, it’s the same concept for coffee lovers!
How could I write a list like this, and now mention this amazing place?
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Hit some of the local bars
For some, Capitol Hill is truly at its best during the night, so hitting up a few local bars had to make my list of things to do in Capitol Hill.
With numerous bars open here during all hours of the night, it’s a bar-hopper’s dream.
We highly suggest checking out McMenamin’s; deemed one of the most popular places to visit in Capitol Hill for craft beer lovers, you’d be foolish to miss this place off your list of bars to try out in Seattle.
If you’re after a more kitsch and unusual nightspot, then why not try out Sam’s? With unicorn heads mounted on the wall, you’ll certainly feel transported to a whole new (albeit strange) world.
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Put on your dancing shoes
As I’ve already mentioned, Capitol Hill is the place to be for nightlife in Seattle. So, why not put on your dancing shoes and try out the Havana Lounge?
Playing hip-hop and salsa classics, it’s the perfect place in which to dance the night away with some truly amazing drinks.
If you love a dance, then this needs to make your list!
Visit Spin Cycle
Next on our list, it’s Spin Cycle!
You can’t visit Capitol Hill without paying this unique store a visit – it’s totally ‘Seattle’ and we think you’ll love it.
This place sells vinyls, cassette tapes, games and movies – so perfect for anyone obsessed with retro and vintage media!
Get brunch at Oddfellows Cafe
One of my favorite things to do in Capitol Hill, especially on a weekend morning, is grabbing brunch from Oddfellows.
This adorable little cafe is so cozy and cute (the vibes are spot on!). And it’s a real favorite amongst locals and residents of Capitol Hill.
The food is also delicious here, and I can’t fault anything I’ve ever tried. The stand is probably this blueberry french toast – which was crazy good.
Visit The Elliott Bay Book Company
Next on my list of fun things to do in Capitol Hill, it’s visiting the Elliott Bay Book Company.
In my opinion, this is one of the most charming bookstores in the city. The wooden ceiling, the beams, the endless shelves of masterpieces – it’s amazing.
I love just taking my time browsing the books here, the staff never rush you, and they’re always happy to help with recommendations too.
There’s also a cafes in the back too – so if you’re looking for somewhere to re-caffeinate, this is a great spot.
Visit the Capitol Hill Wishing Tree
This is one of the lesser-known ideas on my list.
The Capitol Hill Wishing Tree is one of those quirky and unique things to do in Capitol Hill, that we know you’ll love.
Located at this address (2099 E Galer St, Seattle, WA 98112, United States) this is a tree with (supposedly) magical powers, to grant any wish you make.
Now, we can’t vouch for it’s legitimacy, but it’s a really fun place to visit!
Enjoy some live music
Next up on my list of fun things to do in Capitol Hill, Seattle, it’s catching some live music.
The nightlife in Capitol Hill is well known, and the live music is pretty famous!
Catch a show at one of the many live music venues in the neighborhood, such as Neumos or The Crocodile, you’ll love it!
Check out the street art
If you didn’t know, Capitol Hill is known for its vibrant street art scene, so there’s always great art to admire and enjoy as you walk around the neighborhood.
So keep an eye out for murals and graffiti when you’re exploring Capitol Hill – although it won’t be hard to miss!
I also recommend searching out the famous rainbow crosswalks in Capitol HIll too!
Sidewalk Dance Steps on Broadway
Our next suggestion for things to do in Capitol Hill, Seattle, it’s finding the adorable sidewalk dance steps.
Now, I’ve never quite figured out how to do the dancing part, but I do love trying!
Find them on Broadway, and see if you can do better than me!
Go shopping
There are loads of gorgeous independent stores in Capitol Hill, so shopping there definitely had to make our list of things to do in Capitol Hill, Seattle.
Find some of the independent stores and spend the morning having a browse around some of the lovely stuff!
I love browsing around the many stores in Capitol Hill and seeing what gorgeous things I can find!
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Places to eat in Capitol Hill, Seattle
After checking off all of these fun things to do in Capitol Hill, you might want to grab some food! Seattle is a foodie’s idea of heaven… and lots of the best places are in Capitol Hill.
This amazing little suburb of the big city has so many amazing eateries to enjoy. Here are just a few!
If you’re more of a foodie than an explorer, then why not try out one of these awesome eateries located in Capitol Hill?
The Wandering Goose
First on my list of places to eat in Capitol Hill, it’s Wandering Goose. I discovered this place on my most recent trip to Seattle, The Wandering Goose is such a cute little foodie find.
It looks pretty unassuming from the outside… but inside you’ll find some of the best fried chicken in town. Literally, the fried chicken here is second to none – it’s so so delicious!
And don’t even get me started on the sweet kale they serve up as a side dish… YUM!!! Add this to your list of things to do in Capitol Hill, because it’s epic.
Plum Bistro
Next on my list of places to eat in Capitol Hill, it’s Plum Bistro. If you’re a vegan, then be sure to check out the Plum Bistro.
Though you may think you’re in store for some grain salads, you’d be wrong, for Plum Bistro is all about elevating veganism.
With an excellent range for all palettes, you’re sure to find something that you’ll love on this rich and wholesome menu.
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Tacos Chukis
How could I write a list of the best places to eat in Capitol Hill, and not include tacos! If you’re after a cheap and cheerful place to stop for a meal, why not try Tacos Chukis?
Though these guys don’t charge extortionate prices, their food is top notch. If you decide to pay these guys a visit, then be sure to try their signature sandwich.
Though the combination of guacamole, meat, and pineapple may sound bizarre, it’s a flavour sensation that you’ve probably got to sample to believe.
Altura
Providing a Northwest focus to Italian cuisine, Altura is a unique place in which to sample some Italian favourites with a twist.
Amongst the favourites are the Hokkaido scallops; served lightly seared and perfectly seasoned, diners find themselves returning time and time again for these little nuggets of goodness.
One great thing about this Capitol Hill restaurant is that they have some great beverage pairing options. Whether you like wine or cocktails, the staff are on hand to guide you toward that perfect combination! Such a great location for places to eat in Capitol Hill!
Dino’s Tomato Pie
Dino’s has long been hailed as Seattle’s best pizza, so we absolutely had to include it on our list of places to eat in Capitol Hill.
With thick crusts that epitomise the pizza pie trend, you’ll find yourself lost in the deliciousness here. Toppings tend to be local, so you’re guaranteed the freshest of pies every time you visit. We just had to include this pizza place on our list of places to eat in Capitol Hill.
Crumble and Flake Patisserie
If you’re more of a pastry or dessert person, then look no further than Crumble and Flake Patisserie for some great eats in Capitol Hill. Though this place is small, it’s mighty, and it tends to be busy most of the time.
Whether you fancy a pastry, cookies, or something else to hit that sweet craving, you’ll find all you need and more at Crumble and Flake Patisserie.
Bar Melusine
The final place on our list of places to eat in Capitol Hill is Bar Melusine. One of the best picks on our list for fresh food, this delicious restaurant serves some of Seattle’s finest seafood. Such a great option for places to eat in Capitol Hill!
Whether you’re after fresh oysters or some creative cocktails, you’ll find all that you need and more at Bar Melusine.
I hope that this list of things to do in Capitol Hill and where to eat in Capitol Hill, Seattle has proved useful in planning your next trip!
Though this list isn’t exhaustive, there is plenty on here with which to get started. So, whet your appetite, establish that sense of adventure and get booking!
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