Seattle is a city that shifts with the seasons. Known for its coffee shops, seafood, and waterfront views, it also has a reputation for endless rain. In reality, Seattle’s weather is more nuanced. Summers are warm and dry, spring and autumn bring a mix of showers and sunshine, and winters are mild compared to most of the United States. The best time to visit depends on whether you want lively festivals, outdoor adventures, or a quieter city break with lower costs.
This guide takes you through Seattle season by season and month by month. You will learn what the weather is like, which events happen, and how the city feels at different times of year. That way, you can match your trip to the experience you want.
Quick Answer
The most popular time to visit Seattle is from June to September, when the weather is sunny, dry, and perfect for sightseeing or day trips. Spring and autumn are less crowded and still pleasant, while winter is good for budget travelers or those interested in a cozy city atmosphere.
Seattle by Season
Spring (March to May)
Spring feels fresh and optimistic in Seattle. Rain is still frequent, but the city starts to bloom. Temperatures rise from the low 40s in March to the mid-60s by May. Pack a light rain jacket, but you will also get bright, clear days that are perfect for exploring on foot.
What to see and do in spring:
- The University of Washington cherry blossoms are a highlight, usually peaking in late March or early April. The campus fills with locals and visitors taking photos under the trees.
- The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival runs through April just north of Seattle. It draws visitors from around the world to see fields of colorful tulips.
- Whale-watching season begins, with gray whales migrating through Puget Sound. Tours run from Edmonds, Everett, and the San Juan Islands.
Crowds are smaller than in summer, which means more relaxed visits to attractions like the Space Needle or Chihuly Garden and Glass. Prices for hotels are moderate, especially compared to July and August.
Summer (June to September)
Summer is Seattle at its best. Days are long, with sunset after 9 pm in June and July. Rainfall drops sharply, and temperatures sit comfortably between 65 and 80°F. It is the season for outdoor events, farmers’ markets, and waterfront life.
What to see and do in summer:
- Pike Place Market is at its liveliest, full of flowers, berries, seafood, and local crafts.
- Seafair, a city-wide festival in July and August, includes hydroplane races, parades, and the famous Blue Angels air show.
- Bumbershoot, a music and arts festival held over Labor Day weekend, brings big acts and local performers.
- Ferries run frequently to Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, and the San Juan Islands, making day trips easy.
- Hiking trails near Mount Rainier and in the Cascades are snow-free and accessible.
This is also when the crowds are biggest. Hotels sell out months in advance, especially downtown and around major festivals. If you want both good weather and slightly fewer tourists, September is often the sweet spot.
Autumn (October to November)
Autumn comes quickly. By October, the days are shorter, rain returns, and temperatures drop into the 50s. Even so, this is a beautiful time for those who enjoy crisp air and fall colors.
What to see and do in autumn:
- Seattle’s parks turn shades of red and gold. The Washington Park Arboretum is one of the best spots for fall foliage.
- Discovery Park offers coastal trails with colorful leaves and views of Puget Sound.
- Fremont Oktoberfest in September is a big neighborhood beer festival.
- The Earshot Jazz Festival in October and November brings international and local musicians to venues across the city.
By late autumn, rain is frequent, but the tradeoff is quieter attractions and lower hotel rates. Indoor activities like visiting museums, bookstores, and cafés are perfect for this season.
Winter (December to February)
Seattle winters are mild but gray. Snow is rare in the city, though nearby mountains get plenty, making this a good time for skiing or snowboarding day trips. Temperatures range from the mid-30s to mid-40s, and rain is common.
What to see and do in winter:
- Holiday lights brighten Seattle Center, Woodland Park Zoo, and downtown streets.
- On New Year’s Eve, the Space Needle fireworks show is a major event.
- The Seattle Boat Show in January is one of the largest in the country.
- Ski resorts at Snoqualmie Pass, Stevens Pass, and Crystal Mountain are close enough for a day trip.
This is the quietest season for tourism. Hotels are cheaper, lines are short, and you will find fewer crowds at Pike Place Market or museums. If you do not mind rain and enjoy cozy indoor time, winter has its own appeal.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
- March: Rainy but warming, cherry blossoms begin.
- April: Tulip Festival in Skagit Valley, moderate rain, daytime highs in the 50s.
- May: Pleasant, less rain, outdoor dining starts to reopen.
- June: Start of summer festivals, days get long, still some showers.
- July: Dry and warm, peak tourist season. Great for hiking and outdoor concerts.
- August: Similar to July, with major Seafair events.
- September: Warm days, fewer tourists, harvest season at markets.
- October: Cool, colorful leaves, rain begins to return.
- November: Gray skies, more rain, fewer crowds.
- December: Holiday lights, cold but rarely snowy.
- January: Quiet and budget-friendly, ski season in full swing nearby.
- February: Similar to January, but days start to lengthen.
Events Worth Planning Around
Seattle has a busy calendar, and timing your trip with an event can make it more memorable.
- Seattle International Film Festival (May–June): One of the largest film festivals in North America.
- Seafair (July–August): Neighborhood parades, air shows, and water events.
- Bumbershoot (September): Long-running music and arts festival.
- Earshot Jazz Festival (October–November): Celebrated international jazz event.
- Christmas Ship Festival (December): Decorated boats cruise Puget Sound with carolers on board.
Travel Tips for Seattle Weather
- Always pack layers. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be cool.
- Rain is usually light, more of a mist or drizzle. Locals wear jackets instead of using umbrellas.
- Summer is busiest. If you want fewer tourists, spring and autumn are better.
- Bring comfortable shoes. Seattle has hills and a lot of walking opportunities.
- Consider day trips. The city is a gateway to mountains, islands, and national parks.
Final Thoughts
Seattle is a city that offers something in every season. Summer is ideal if you want sunny days, festivals, and outdoor adventures. Spring and autumn are quieter, with blossoms or fall colors and fewer crowds. Winter is best for budget travelers and those who do not mind gray skies.
No matter when you go, Seattle has its own rhythm. A rainy morning might be followed by a clear afternoon with mountain views. A summer evening can stretch on with golden light long past dinner. If you match your trip to the season that fits your style, you will find Seattle rewarding year-round.
