The April rain is gone, and spring is in full bloom! May is a good time to visit Seattle because the city is buzzing with life. Visiting Seattle in May 2025 allows you to enjoy events, festivals, flowers, food, and whatnot. Seattle could be one of the few major US cities where you might see the Northern Lights, right from the city.
Ultimate Guide to Visiting Seattle in May 2025
Seattle’s May calendar is full of fun! This guide covers the absolutely best things to do in Seattle in May 2025, including family-friendly picks and outdoorsy stuff. But first, let’s quickly talk about the weather, what to pack, and how to get around.
What is Seattle Like in May: Weather, Packing, and Getting Around
Seattle in May is bright, pleasant, and warm. The city leaves cold days behind and welcomes sunny skies. You get about 8 hours of sunshine daily. Rain is rare in May, so you can enjoy fresh air and fun. Some clouds may appear, but May feels cheerful and lively.
Weather in Seattle in May 2025
Seattle has mild and comfortable weather in May. The average temperature is around 64°F (18°C) during the day, and it cools down to 46°F (8°C) at night. Expect about 8 hours of sunshine daily, with 11 days of rain totaling 46 mm of precipitation. While the weather is generally pleasant, there could be occasional showers in Seattle.
Best Time to Visit Seattle in May 2025
May is a great time to visit Seattle because the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller than in summer. The city’s spring atmosphere is at its best, with blooming flowers and lush green forests.
May is a part of Seattle’s transitional period (April-May), which avoids the peak summer tourist crowds and high hotel prices.
What to Wear in Seattle in May
- Long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and light jackets
- A lightweight, waterproof jacket, waterproof shoes (for rain)
- Casual, practical clothing, with darker colors or spring hues
Layering is key for Seattle in May. While taking care of your body, you might want to step it up by choosing VisitorsCoverage travel insurance for safely visiting Seattle.
Getting Around Seattle in May 2025
Getting around Seattle in May is easy, thanks to efficient public transit options. The Link Light Rail’s new 2 Line extension opens on May 10, improving access to Redmond and Marymoor Village.
Bus service frequencies have increased, with adjustments to key routes. The Seattle Streetcar is also a convenient option for short trips within the city.
For a more scenic experience, the free Seattle Waterfront Shuttle is available, though some stops are temporarily suspended. You can also go for RentalCars in Seattle to hit the road by yourself!
But first, you need to get there. So, check out Seattle flights in May right here:
The Most Exciting Things to Do in Seattle in May 2025
May is one of the best times to visit Seattle. There’s so much to do! Start with the top places to visit in Seattle in May. Take in the views on one of the many Seattle cruises. Celebrate Mother’s Day on May 11 with flowers or a meal.
Don’t miss the Seattle May events, festivals, and concerts for absolute fun! Go on a spring hike near the city, or enjoy water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Taste the season with the best of Seattle’s spring food scene. On May 1, enjoy free museum entry on First Thursday.
Catch a Mariners game at T-Mobile Park, or unwind in one of Seattle’s spas and saunas. Honor the holiday during Memorial Day ceremonies on May 26. Stroll through Seattle’s waterfront and parks, or enjoy more outdoor activities around the city. Finally, take time for a day trip to nearby spots.
1/ Visit Places to Visit in Seattle in May 2025
If you’re visiting Seattle in May, the CityPASS is a great way to explore the city’s top 5 attractions at a discounted price. It gives you access to five must-see spots.
Seattle CityPASS (Up to 49% Discount)
- Space Needle; includes two visits (must occur within 24 hours)
- Seattle Aquarium
Plus, choose 3 more Seattle attractions of your choice from:
- Chihuly Garden and Glass
- Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour
- Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
- Woodland Park Zoo
- Pacific Science Center
The CityPASS lets you experience Seattle’s best in one convenient package.
Here’s what else to see in Seattle in May:
- Future of Flight Aviation Center
- Olympic Sculpture Park
- Volunteer Park Conservatory
- Seattle Center
- Pioneer Square
- The Underground Tour
- Seattle Great Wheel
- Fremont Troll
- Georgetown for Street Art and Breweries
2/ Enjoy the Best of Seattle Cruises in May 2025
May is a great time to cruise in Seattle. You can experience Seattle’s marine life by taking this half-day whale watching cruise departing from the city.
But you can also cruise from Seattle to Alaska, the Caribbean, Hawaii, the Bahamas, and even Europe. Alaska cruises are key May attractions in the city (more popular than others).
Seattle Roundtrip Cruises in May 2025:
- 7-Night Alaskan Explorer by Holland America Line – $944
- 7-Night Alaska Dawes Glacier by Celebrity Cruises – $11,630
- 7-Night Alaska Experience by Royal Caribbean – $1,669
- 7-Night Alaskan Explorer by Holland America Line – $1,064,
- 7-Night Alaska Inside Passage by Princess Cruises – $899
- 7-Night Alaska Experience by Royal Caribbean – $1,307
- 7-Night Alaska Dawes Glacier, Juneau & Ketchikan by Norwegian Cruise Line – $499
- 7-Night Alaska Inside Passage With Glacier Bay National Park by Princess Cruises – $799
- 7-Night Alaskan Explorer by Holland America Line – $679
- 7-Night Alaska Adventure by Royal Caribbean – $822
- 7-Night Alaska Round-Trip Seattle: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau by Norwegian Cruise Line – $549
- 9-Night Alaska Round-Trip Seattle: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau by Norwegian Cruise Line – $678
3/ Go Dine With Your Mom Or Get Flowers on Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day in May is the perfect time to show love and appreciation for your mom. You can take your mom out for a cozy meal or Mother’s Day tea, dinner, or brunch in Seattle. Surprise her with fresh flowers at the 17th Pike Place Market Flower Festival on May 10 and May 11, 2025.
Or as a tourist visiting Seattle in May, you should also check out many other Mother’s Day events and activities in the city.
4/ Participate in Vibrant Events, Festivals, and Concerts
There’s a diverse range of events and festivals in Seattle in May, from music and culture to unique community gatherings.
Let me share just a handful of events happening in the city this May.
- Celebrate Star Wars Day at MoPOP
- Start Your Hunt On West Seattle Garage Sale Day
- Enjoy Seattle Beer Week (May 9–17)
- Attend the Annual Northwest Folklife Festival
- Witness the Spirit of Africa Festival (May 10)
- Attend one of Seattle’s Candlelight Concerts
- Watch the 2025 Opening Day boat parade and crew races (May 3)
- Experience the annual Seattle International Film Festival
- Sip on brews at Seattle Beer Week
- Attend a free Seattle honeybee festival
- Have a blast at the U District Street Fair
- Enjoy outdoor concerts at The Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery
Joining any of these concerts is also one of the exciting things to do in Seattle in May 2025:
| SEATTLE CONCERTS IN MAY 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| DATE (MAY 2025) | CONCERT | VENUE |
| May 9 – 10 | Terror Fest (metal) | Neumos |
| May 9 – 11 | Spyro Gyra | Jazz Alley |
| May 10 | Max Richter | Benaroya |
| May 16 | J Balvin | Climate Pledge |
| May 17 | Simple Minds | Climate Pledge |
| May 17 | Kendrick Lamar & Sza | Lumen Field |
| May 17 – 18 | Zoé | Moore |
| May 19 – 20 | Jack White | Paramount |
| May 24 | Stray Kids | T-Mobile Park |
| May 25 | Massive Monkees | Neptune |
| May 25 | Willie Nelson & Dylan | Gorge |
| May 25 – 26 | James Taylor | Chateau Ste. M. |
| May 27 | Khruangbin | WaMu |
| May 30 | Brand New | WaMu |
| May 30 – 31 | Leon Bridges | Remlinger |
5/ Witness the Seattle Aurora on May 10, 11, 12
Many witnessed the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, in Seattle on May 10-11, 2024, due to a strong geomagnetic storm. This is an unusual occurrence!
But a G1 geomagnetic storm is expected on the night of May 9th, 2025, which could make the Northern Lights visible in the northern parts of Washington.
The aurora is most likely to be seen after sunset, between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. PDT. Keep an eye out on May 10, 11, and 12 for this rare sighting!
6/ Go for a Scenic Spring Hike Near the City
Spring is a great time to explore the trails around Seattle. As the snow melts, the region’s hiking spots come alive with vibrant greenery and stunning views. If you’re looking for the best Seattle hikes in May, multiple options offer challenge and beauty.
- Mount Storm King – A tough but rewarding hike with a lookout point over Lake Crescent
- Hurricane Ridge and Sunrise Point – Short, scenic hikes with beautiful panoramic views
- Lake 22 – A serene alpine lake surrounded by lush forest and accessible via a well-maintained trail.
7/ Try Water Activities in Seattle in May 2025
May is also a perfect time for enjoying calm water activities in Seattle. The mild temperatures and clear skies make kayaking and paddleboarding on Lake Union or Lake Washington ideal activities. The best news? There are many rentals available at Agua Verde, Moss Bay, or REI Boathouse.
8/ Enjoy Seattle’s Spring Food Scene in May 2025
May is an exciting time for food lovers in Seattle, too. The city’s food scene comes alive with fresh, seasonal ingredients and local specialties. Explore Seattle’s iconic Pike Place Market with this chef-guided food tour to sample local delicacies.
Or you can also explore the Fremont Sunday Market for fresh produce, local crafts, and unique food trucks. Ballard Farmers Market is also a great place to explore fresh, seasonal produce and artisanal foods from local vendors
What to Taste in May in Seattle:
Seattle offers a rich culinary landscape with everything from fresh seafood to world-class coffee. Be sure to sample iconic Seattle dishes like clam chowder, Dungeness crab, and, of course, a cup of Seattle’s renowned coffee.
9/ Leverage “First Thursday” Free Museum Entry (May 1)
May 1 is a fantastic day to explore Seattle’s world-class museums for free. Several museums open their doors with no admission fee on the first Thursday of each month. It allows you to experience art, history, and culture without spending a dime.
You can start with these museums:
- Seattle Art Museum (SAM)
- Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI)
- Seattle Asian Art Museum
- Frye Art Museum
10/ Catch a Seattle Mariners Game at T-Mobile Park in May
There are many exciting Seattle Mariners games scheduled at T-Mobile Park in May 2025. The Mariners have a series of games against the Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, Washington Nationals, and Minnesota Twins scheduled at T-Mobile Park throughout May.
Seattle Mariners May 2025 Schedule:
- May 9-11 vs. Toronto Blue Jays
- May 12-14 vs. New York Yankees
- May 27-29 vs. Washington Nationals
- May 30-31 vs. Minnesota Twins
Or you could cheer at Sounders matches taking place in Lumen Field this May! Wherever you go, don’t forget to get tickets from Ticketmaster here.
11/ Relax in Seattle’s Spas and Saunas as the Weather Warms
May is a great time to unwind at one of Seattle’s many spas and saunas. Treat yourself to a day of relaxation with soothing treatments and rejuvenating experiences in May in Seattle.
- Banya 5
- The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel
- Aveda Institute Seattle
- Float Seattle
12/ Join Memorial Day Ceremonies on May 26, 2025
Seattle honors Memorial Day with a variety of ceremonies that recognize and celebrate the service of fallen soldiers. Participate in the city’s events to show respect and learn more about Seattle’s military history. These are some of the Memorial Day ceremonies in Seattle:
- Seattle Center Memorial Day Ceremony
- Veterans Memorial Park
- Korean War Memorial
- Lakeview Cemetery Memorial Day Service
13/ Explore Waterfront, Gardens, and Parks to Enjoy May in Seattle
May is a great time to explore Seattle’s lush parks and beautiful waterfront. You’ll enjoy the warm weather and stunning scenery. These parks and waterfront spots are perfect for outdoor activities, picnics, and enjoying the spring air.
- Seattle Waterfront
- Discovery Park
- Gas Works Park
- Volunteer Park
- Kerry Park
- Warren G. Magnuson Park
- Lincoln Park
- Green Lake Park
- Olympic Sculpture Park
- Washington Park Arboretum
14/ Enjoy Spring-friendly Outdoor Activities in the City
May is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities in Seattle. The weather is mild, flowers are blooming, and the days are longer. Try kayaking on Lake Union and see the city from the water.
You can also go whale watching in Puget Sound. Ride a bike on the Burke-Gilman Trail and enjoy the fresh air. You can also take a boat tour to spot whales in Puget Sound.
And while you are in the city in May, why not bike the Burke-Gilman Trail, hike at Discovery Park, walk through the Seattle Japanese Garden, or picnic at Volunteer Park!
15/ Take a Day Trip to Nearby Destinations
Seattle is close to many fun places. In May, the views are clear and the weather is nice. Visit Kerry Park for a great photo of the city and Mount Rainier. Head to Gas Works Park for a walk or a picnic. Alki Beach is perfect for a sunset stroll. You can also drive to waterfalls or take the ferry to Bainbridge Island. You can also go see Snoqualmie Falls just outside the city.
