Just south of the Pier 66 cruise dock on Seattle's spectacular waterfront there is a special place reserved for boaters, such as you. When you snuggle into your slip at Bell Harbor Marina outside of the summer months, you’ll have the place practically all to yourself.
With the city at your doorstep, now is the time to make your cozy boating getaway for a weekend of Seattle arts, entertainment, and waterfront walks under the cover of city lights. With too many choices to count we’ve put together a weekend outing with ideas and recommendations so you can ‘do Seattle’ like only a boater can.
Arrival and Waterfront Adventure
On Friday afternoon, check in to your premiere guest slip at Bell Harbor Marina, Seattle only downtown recreational marina. Our friendly staff will be eager to greet you.
Pro tips: Call the marina office when you are on the way, and they will give you your slip assignment ahead of time! Once you’re settled, check in to the marina office to get the security gate and shower codes to use during your stay.
Dawn your comfy walking shoes and begin your waterfront adventure heading south from the marina. Your first stop is Seattle’s newest pier destination, Waterfront Park at Pier 62, where you can admire stunning views if Elliot Bay and the urban skyline, and discover an eclectic range of artworks that respond to the history of the shoreline, its ecology, and communities. Here, you’ll find casual food and beverage options plus if you plan ahead, you can join a walking tour or wildlife talk.
Next, continue your stroll down the waterfront where you’ll begin to see how the city waterfront will transform in the coming year. When you get to Minor’s Landing you can thrill to two of the waterfronts most unique adventures – the Seattle Great Wheel and Wings Over Washington. While your there, it’s always worth a peek inside Ye Olde Curiosity Shop for a look at the fun and kitschy tourist souvenirs.
The Seattle Great Wheel is the tallest Ferris wheel on the west coast known for its famous LED light displays and scenic views casting over Elliot Bay and the Seattle cityscape. Enjoy a 10–15-minute ride for a special view of the city.
Now, take a virtual ride in the state-of-the-art flying theater, Wings Over Washington. The experience will transport you on an aerial adventure where you will see amazing sights (and smells!) of Washington including areal plunges down the seaside cliffs of the Olympic National Forest, Mt, Rainier, and the San Juan Islands.
To end the evening, take your pick and enjoy local Pacific Northwest seafood fares at Ivar’s at Pier 54, the Crab Pot home to the famous Seafeast for two or more, Pier 56 Elliott’s Oyster House, or the Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar.
Market Morning, Museums, and Menus
Saturday morning wake up with your crew and take a 10-minute walk up to Pike Place Market for some coffee and French pastries at Le Panier. If you want to build an epic Pike Place Market day, use the planning your morning trip guide for great options for different experiences.
After your market fun, get ready to discover your next favorite museum! February is Seattle Museum Month where over 30 participating museums. To help you find the one’s just right for you, your friends at Visit Seattle have provided a great resource to match your interests:
- Uniquely Northwest: Found only here in the Seattle region.
- Calling all History Lovers: Stories behind the people and places of the Northwest.
- The Arts & Culture-Lovers Tour: Top picks for art lovers.
- Fun for the Whole Family: For those with kids in the mix
You are bound to find a museum or two that fit your interests and we always recommend purchasing your tickets online ahead of your visit to ensure your spot.
After a full day of fun, you’ll be ready for a relaxing and special dining treat. It’s best to head back to the waterfront for dinner near your boat at Bell Harbor where you have three perfect options. Your very special upscale option is a short walk to Pier 70 to Aqua by El Gaucho where you’ll find the most exceptional service, seafood, and Elliot Bay views. Another equally spectacular choice on the waterfront just North of the marina is Six Seven Restaurant at The Edgewater Hotel. Your other perfect dining option is right at your marina where Anthony’s Pier 66 provides a wonderful range of Northwest inspired and Seafood options and provides a classic view of the waterfront overlooking Bell Harbor Marina.
Say Goodbye to Your Cozy Slip on The Waterfront
You will have discovered enough over the past days to collect a few places for your Sunday list. Maybe you’ll pick up flowers from Pike Place Market or take in the waterfront walk in the morning light.
