Romance

5 min read

25 Romantic Things To Do In Seattle (Date Night or Weekend Getaway)

Explore top romantic activities in Seattle! From breathtaking day trips, unique dining experiences, to cozy hotel getaways, find the perfect date idea or weekend escape.

Tobi Miles
July 8, 2022
25 Romantic Things To Do In Seattle (Date Night or Weekend Getaway)

Seattle has a lot to offer if you know where to look. From day trips hiking to fabulous eateries, there’s always something to do and somewhere to go. If you’re looking for romantic ideas, you’ve come to the right place!

Any one of these ideas is sure to be a fantastic experience, depending on what you and your date like to do. Sometimes it’s fun to get out of our comfort zones, as well, and take a chance at something new.

We’ve listed several fantastic dining experiences, quite a few tours, and even the two best hotels for a romantic getaway.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas for an ideal weekend, or pick and choose for 25 dates throughout the year. From private plane rides to an island dinner to a picnic along the waterfront to watch the sunset along Puget Sound, you’re sure to wow your date with the perfect romantic gesture.

Plan Your Perfect Romantic Weekend in Seattle

1. Mt. Rainier Day Trip

Whether you head out to Mt. Rainier on your own or prefer to have a guide, the breathtaking views are worth the trip. Many guided tours are available, with one in particular that has rave reviews.

The Mt. Rainier Day Tour from Seattle with Tours Northwest will pick you up from four locations and take you for a lovely ride and hike in Mt. Rainier National Park.

You’ll see both Christine and Narada Falls on your trek, with ample time to have a picnic within the park midday. This is an early-to-rise excursion that leaves at 7 am, but you won’t regret it!

Website: To book a tour of Mt. Rainier, click here.

Things to Know: Sensible shoes recommended, bring or buy lunch

Viator Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

2. Seattle’s Original Harbor Cruise

Credit: Argosy Cruises / Facebook

Departing from Pier 55 and taking you on an hour-long tour of the Harbor, Seattle's Original Harbor Cruise is a great way to spend the afternoon before heading out to wine and dine.

You’ll hear all about Seattle from a local guide while seeing the Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound, the Space Needle, and more.

There is a full-service bar that offers cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages on board, as well as snacks, and the vessel is climate controlled for ultimate comfort. Cruises run daily and tend to book quickly for the weekends.

Address: Pier 55, 1101 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101

Website: https://www.argosycruises.com/argosy-cruises/harbor-cruise/

Things to Know: Rain or shine, reservations required

Viator Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

3. The Pink Door

Credit: The Pink Door / Facebook

The Pink Door is an Italian restaurant in Seattle that takes entertainment to the next level. Alongside a fabulous drink selection and delectable food, you’ll find burlesque shows and trapeze artists. It’s been open since 1981 and has rave reviews across the board, so you can be sure you and your date will have a fantastic time.

If you prefer to dine outside, call ahead and make a reservation for terrace seating so you can see the breathtaking sunset view along Elliot Bay. You can also enjoy live music when it’s scheduled. Check their website for performance times.

Address: 1919 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101

Phone Number: (206) 443-3241

Website: https://www.thepinkdoor.net/

Things to Know: Reservations recommended for terrace seating

OpenTable Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Related Read: 30 Top Black-Owned Restaurants In Seattle, WA

4. Show Me Seattle City Tour

Whether you’re a tourist or local, the Show Me Seattle City Tour is a great date idea. It’s three hours long and will show you all the best places to see and eat. It’s recommended to start your trip to Seattle with something along these lines, so you know where to spend the rest of your stay.

You’ll tour the Downtown Area, Pioneer Square, and Stadium District, International District and Waterfront, Seattle Center and Queen Anne Viewpoint, and Ballard Locks and Fremont Neighborhood. They have three departure options daily, 9 am, 10 am, and 2 pm.

Address: 8110 7th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98108

Phone Number: (206) 633-2489

Website: https://showmeseattle.com

Things to Know: Sightseeing only, plan for lunch elsewhere

TripAdvisor Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

5. Show Me Seattle Pike Place Market Tour

Credit: Show Me Seattle Tours / Facebook

Pike Place is a well-known market in Seattle, but you’ll be remiss if you don’t have an excellent guide to help you traverse the narrow alleys and numerous storefronts. The Pike Place Market Tour offers that and more, with eight tastings over two hours and enlightening information along the way.

This is the perfect way to learn all about the amazing people that brought Pike’s Place to fruition, and it’s the ideal opportunity to stroll hand in hand with your date for a few hours and not have to think about a thing but each other and following along.

Address: 8110 7th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98108

Phone Number: (206) 633-2489

Website: https://showmeseattle.com

Things to Know: Sensible shoes recommended for the walking tour

Viator Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

6. Altura

Credit: Altura / Facebook

Altura is a high-end Italian restaurant with a smart casual dress code, perfect for a romantic evening or an impromptu lunch. The opulent and warm decor is perfect for a rainy day, and the food is exceptional.

They serve tapas, so you’ll have ample opportunities to flirt in between servings, as well as room for more than one entree. They’re well known for serving mouth-watering combinations that can’t be found elsewhere, and they have a full wine menu to choose from.

Each dish is as aesthetic as it is delicious, so don’t be afraid to dive right in and order whatever you’d like for your date.

Address: 617 Broadway E, Seattle, WA 98102

Phone Number: (206) 402-6749

Website: https://alturarestaurant.com

Things to Know: Reservations recommended for dinner

OpenTable Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

7. Olympic National Park

While hitting up a tour is fun and carefree, just heading out to Olympic National Park with your loved one for a day date can be romantic and intimate.

If you time it right, you might be able to see one of the salmon or trout runs while you picnic along the banks of the water. Just be sure to wear sensible clothes and decent shoes. If you’ve never been, be prepared to be amazed.

Unlike most national parks, Olympic has a very diverse ecosystem, with some parts that remind you of a moody coastline and others that are lush and vibrant. Be sure to prepare for rain, as certain portions of the park get over 150 inches annually.

Address: 3002 Mount Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362

Phone Number: (360) 565-3130

Website: https://www.nps.gov/olym/index.htm

Things to Know: Best time to visit - July through August

Viator Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Related Read: 15 BEST Water Parks in Washington State

8. IL Bistro

Credit: IL Bistro / Facebook

Romantic dining is a specialty at IL Bistro, where Italian food meets an intimate decor. You’ll feel like you’ve traveled to Tuscany as you sit down at a table and drink wine while eating warm bread and waiting on your order.

The dimly lit interior, flavorful food, and superior service will ensure your date night is everything you want it to be. They offer the classics, such as lasagna, gnocchi, and chicken Parmesan.

Looking for something more more daring, the Cioppino and Luigini Di Mare are highly recommended. You might also be interested in their charcuterie boards. Whatever you choose, you’ll be delighted.

Address: 93 Pike Street, Unit A, Seattle, WA 98101

Phone Number: (206) 682-3049

Website: https://www.ilbistro.net

Things to Know: Reservations recommended

OpenTable Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

9. Snoqualmie Falls

Nestled between Snoqualmie and Fall City is a 268-foot waterfall. It’s a 1.4-mile hike there and back, but entirely worth it to see this famous water feature that was in the cult-classic Twin Peaks. Be sure to pack snacks and plenty of water for the trip, and wear appropriate clothing and shoes.

If you’d like a bit of privacy, try heading out on a weekday or in the early morning. This is a trendy attraction for locals and tourists alike, and it’s very busy in the afternoon and on weekends.

Address: 6501 Railroad Ave, Snoqualmie, WA 98065

Phone Number: (425) 326-2563

Website: https://www.snoqualmiefalls.com

Things to Know: Hike takes a little under an hour on average

Google Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Related Read: 25 Best Waterfalls in Washington State

10. Canlis

Credit: Canlis / Facebook

With reservations required and sports coats suggested, Canlis is a fine dining Pacific NW experience you don’t want to miss.

The chef is world-renowned Aisha Ibrahim, a Filipino woman who has taken the coveted spot and brought Canlis to a new level. The pride she takes in her menu is evident in every dish.

From steak tartar to Dungeness crab and Muscovy duck to Wagyu beef, this is the restaurant for having that once-in-a-lifetime meal. You’ll also find vegan and vegetarian-friendly dishes, as well as an impressive wine list.

Address: 2576 Aurora Bridge, Seattle, WA 98109

Phone Number: (206) 283-3313

Website: https://canlis.com

Things to Know: Reservations required, dress code enforced for window seating

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

11. Leavenworth

Credit: Visit Leavenworth / Facebook

Leavenworth is a wholly charming town with Bulgarian influence. It’s like walking into a different country, as each shop and dining experience will take you to the colorful and outstanding streets reminiscent of Bulgaria. You’ll see performances, costumes, and more.

For something a bit more planned and memorable, you can attend a tasting of Leavenworth’s Wine Valley from 18 different vineyards nearby before heading into town for lunch or take a horseback ride through the rolling hills in the summer.

You’ll also find ample opportunities for festivals in the area, especially in September through October and April through June.

Address: Leavenworth, WA 98826

Phone Number: (509) 548-5807

Website: https://leavenworth.org

Things to Know: Perfect for an entire weekend away

Google Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

12. Bateau

Credit: Bateau Seattle / Facebook

Bateau is a delectable steakhouse that serves classic whole animal food in a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. The meat is served by cut and weight alongside mouth-watering sides such as mashed potatoes and frites.

The only downside is they’re very popular and have a limited amount of meat daily, as they want to remain sustainable and respect their footprint. If you go, try to get there early so you can have exactly what you’d like. Otherwise, be prepared to choose what they have left from their chalkboard menu.

That said, you won’t be disappointed either way because they know what they’re doing when it comes to beef. You’ll have a choice of which compound butter tops your steak, too, with many options available.

Address: 1040 E Union St, Seattle, WA 98122

Phone Number: (206) 900-8699

Website: https://restaurantbateau.com

Things to Know: First come, first serve on meat cuts

OpenTable Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

13. Sailing Seattle

Credit: Sailing Seattle / Facebook

If you’d like to sail downtown Seattle with a private charter, Sailing Seattle is the perfect way to do so. Open since the 80s, this company has been on a mission to allow anyone the chance to partake in high-performance yacht racing or just relax along the open waters.

You can also join one of their public charters for a 2-hour sunset sail for a very reasonable price. If you’d like something a bit more hands-on, they also offer sailing lessons, which are a great way to spend time with your date.

The classes are 15 hours broken up over a few weeks, with three hours in a classroom and 12 more on the water. It’s not your average date, but who wants to be average?

Address: 7001 Seaview Avenue NW, Suite 130, Seattle, WA 98117

Phone Number: (286) 782-5100

Website: https://sailingseattle.com/

Things to Know: Perfect for a special occasion

Google Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

14. Woodinville Wineries

Credit: Woodinville Wine Country / Facebook

Woodinville has over 100 wineries in four winemaking districts, with a charming small-town backdrop and tourist-friendly accessibility.

What stands out about Woodinville, however, is that the wineries have come together to offer people the chance to taste wine at their own pace with a Passport to Taste app.

You can create custom tours, set up tastings, and get special access and discounts, all while working your way through one of the most famous wine countries near Seattle. You can find a link to the app on their website. Just drink responsibly and have some fun!

Website: https://woodinvillewinecountry.com

Things to Know: Perfect for an entire weekend away

Google Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

15. Cascina Spinasse

Credit: Cascina Spinasse / Facebook

Cascina Spinasse is a high-end, open kitchen concept restaurant serving Italian fare. They specialize in handmade pasta and offer it in a communal setting, making for a dining experience you won’t forget.

Their focus is the northern sector of Italy, Piemontese, and their dishes have been perfected over the years, so you can rest assured you’re getting authentic northern Italian, including the wine.

If you’d like something a bit more private, they offer the option of a personal dining experience for a reasonable price. However, half the fun is getting to know people you’ve never met before while eating delectable food.

Address: 1531 14th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122

Phone Number: (206) 251-7673

Website: http://spinasse.com

Things to Know: Reservations recommended

OpenTable Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

16. Puget Sound Sunset - Great Wheel

With abundant dinner options and a lovely walking sector, Puget Sound is the perfect backdrop for an after-dinner sunset stroll in the summer or a pre-dinner perusal in the winter.

For an extra bit of fun, head to The Seattle Great Wheel or, if heights make you wary, watch it from Waterfront Park. Another excellent option is to head to Sunset Park and have a picnic.

Regardless of where you choose to go, you can make it as romantic as you’d like with just a blanket, bottle of wine, and picnic basket. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and set up alternate plans if it’s too cloudy.

Address: 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101

Phone Number: (206) 623-8607

Website: https://seattlegreatwheel.com

Things to Know: Pre-purchase tickets for a guaranteed time slot

TripAdvisor Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

17. Lake Washington

If you and your date love to stroll along the water and catch fish, Lake Washington is the perfect destination. With several types of salmon, trout, and even some bass, you’ll find ample opportunities to catch your own dinner or just have some fun. On warm days, you can even swim there!

Even better, if you know a thing or two about boating, you can easily rent a boat and take it out on the water for a full-day date experience. In other words, there is so much to do, you can’t go wrong by heading to Seattle’s second-largest lake.

Address: King County, WA

Phone Number: (206) 461-5800

Website: https://kingcounty.gov/services/environment/water-and-land/lakes/lakes-of-king-county/lake-washington.aspx

Things to Know: Check the weather before heading out

TripAdvisor Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Related Read: 30 Top Treehouse Rentals in Washington

18. Eden Hill Restaurant

Credit: Eden Hill / Facebook

Nestled in a beautiful little storefront atop Queen Anne Hill, the Eden Hill Restaurant offers New American food with a twist. The restaurant is very small, with only 24 seats, and has a menu that might surprise you.

From smoked black cod mousse to fiddlehead fern, veal sweetbread, and crispy pig head “sweet bar”, take a chance and try something out of your comfort zone. You’ll be shocked at how much you like it.

You might be interested in trying the Chef’s tasting selection of the evening for the full experience, and don’t forget the wine or cocktails. Keep in mind that with such a small venue, it’s imperative you make reservations well in advance.

Address: 2209 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109

Phone Number: (206) 708-6836

Website: http://www.edenhillrestaurant.com

Things to Know: Reservations recommended, vegan friendly

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

19. Seattle Seaplanes

For another original date idea, look into Seattle Seaplanes. They offer everything from twenty-minute tours to romantic dinner getaways on neighboring islands. If you do the twenty-minute tour, you’ll see Ballard Locks, the Space Needle, and much of downtown Seattle.

For the dinner flight, you have a choice of flying to Poulsbo, Port Ludlow, Port Hadlock, Alderbrook, Port Townsend, Whidbey Island, San Juan Island, Orcas Island, or Victoria, BC. They’ll fly you there, wait while you have a fantastic dinner, and then fly you back.

You can also take flight lessons, which can be a fun way to spend time together learning something new. All you need to do is contact them, sign up, and show up!

Address: 1325 Fairview Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102

Phone Number: (206) 329-9638

Website: https://www.seattleseaplanes.com

Things to Know: Reservations required

Viator Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

20. Club Comedy Seattle

Credit: Club Comedy Seattle / Facebook

Located on iconic Capitol Hill, Club Comedy Seattle is a highly recommended comedy club with excellent service and a fantastic atmosphere. Not only will you have a great time laughing the evening away, but they offer classy drinks and delicious food as well.

Wednesdays are their open mike night, and they have excellent regional, local, and national headliners every other night of the week. Check the schedule and buy tickets on their website. Who knows, you might end up seeing one of your favorite comedians in this intimate setting!

Address: 328 15th Ave E, Seattle WA 98112

Phone Number: (206) 743-8175

Website: http://clubcomedyseattle.com

Things to Know: Reservations/Tickets recommended for most shows

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

21. Seattle Underground Donut Tour

Credit: Ron Long / Unsplash

Seattle is known for many things, and donuts are one of them. Join the Seattle Underground Donut Tour and get your sugary fix with your sweetheart.

You’ll tour four iconic donut shops as you walk from Belltown to Pike’s Place Market. It’s the perfect way to see the sights while having fun and learning about local history.

Even better, they have a deal with one of the top donut places in the city, Daily Dozen Doughnuts at Pike’s Place. You’ll get to skip the line and order whatever you’d like before you head home. That alone is worth it!

Phone Number: (866) 261-2215

Website: To book, click here.

Things to Know: Sensible walking shoes recommended for the walking tour

TripAdvisor Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

22. The Capital Grille

Credit: The Capital Grille Seattle / Facebook

Located in the Cobb, The Capital Grille is a chain-esque club-type setting with excellent steak and a fantastic vibe. It’s perfect for a romantic date night that feels upscale and classy.

If you give them a call and explain why you’re dining in, they’ll decorate the table with rose petals and create the ultimate wine service. You’ll find everything from steak to sea bass and even The Capital Grille Cheesecake that is served on a plate announcing your celebration.

It’s perfect for romantic birthday dinners, anniversaries, marriage proposals, and more. Make your reservation and let them take care of the rest.

Address: 1401 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101

Phone Number: (206) 382-0900

Website: https://m.thecapitalgrille.com/locations/wa/seattle/seattle/8030

Things to Know: Reservations recommended for optimal seating

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

23. Haunted Seattle Pub Crawl - Nightly Spirits

Credit: Nightly Spirits / Facebook

If you’re from Seattle, this will come as no surprise, but if you’re just visiting, you might not know that Seattle has over a dozen haunted pubs that have made headlines for years.

This 2.5-hour tour will take you walking through Seattle’s most haunted district while stopping at pubs and having a drink or two. Be prepared to learn the nitty-gritty underbelly of Haunted Seattle with Nightly Spirits.

They offer one-mile tours Thursday from Sunday that hit three local pubs near Pike’s Place, but you’ll learn about the entire area as your guide regales you with the local history.

Phone Number: 1-8-Ghost-Tour

Website: https://nightlyspirits.com/seattle-tours/

Things to Know: Sensible walking shoes recommended, 21+ only

Google Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

24. The Edgewater Hotel

The Edgewater Hotel is a four-star accommodation with waterfront and Mountain View rooms and suites. It’s next door to Olympic Sculpture Park at Pier 67 and has a cabin-esque feel.

Each room has a fireplace and pine furniture with a European-style bathroom. Even better, you’ll find Six Seven, the on-site restaurant that serves Pacific Northwest cuisine right on the waters of Elliot Bay.

Since it’s built on the pier, you’ll be able to walk right out the front door and explore Seattle at your leisure. This is considered the most romantic hotel in Seattle proper for a reason, so take a chance and find out why!

Address: 2411 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98121

Phone Number: (206) 792-5959

Website: https://www.edgewaterhotel.com

Things to Know: Pet friendly, smoke free, WiFi included

Booking.com Rating: 8.6

25. Lotte Hotel Seattle

Credit: Lotte Hotels / Facebook

The Lotte Hotel is another excellent option for a romantic stay in Emerald City. It’s a short walk from Pike’s Place Market, CenturyLink Field, and Westland and Columbia Center.

The rooms are aesthetically modern, with hints of leather and calming colors, and each one has floor-to-ceiling windows with amazing views. It’s class meets sophistication and has a wonderful spa for ultimate relaxation.

Recent guests adored the staff, some claiming it was the best hospitality they’d ever encountered. Couple that with the reputation for being one of the top spa hotels in Seattle, and you just might find this your favorite hotel on the West Coast.

Address: 809 5th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104

Phone Number: (800) 930-5813

Website: https://www.lottehotel.com/seattle-hotel/en.html

Things to Know: Pet friendly, smoke free, WiFi included

Booking.com Rating: 9.2

Tobi Miles
Article updated:
March 28, 2024
A nomadic wordsmith savoring the world's flavors and penning stories that turn every journey into an epic.
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