12 Best Things to Do in Capitol Hill to Make the Most of Your Trip

Nestled atop Seattle's diverse landscape, Capitol Hill is a vibrant neighborhood celebrated as the city's creative heart. With its bohemian vibe, varied community, and stunning views, this district truly embodies Seattle's unique spirit. From boutique shopping and enjoying coffee shops to experiencing its lively nightlife, exploring parks, and uncovering history, Capitol Hill offers a range of activities that capture the city's progressive vibe.

This guide will lead you to the best things to do in Capitol Hill, making sure your exploration is filled with authentic encounters, artistic discoveries, and plenty of charm.

• Best for literary enthusiasts - The Elliott Bay Book Company
• Best for art and culture lovers - Seattle Asian Art Museum
• Best for coffee connoisseurs - Starbucks Reserve Roastery

• Best for botanical admirers - Volunteer Park Conservatory
• Best for social butterflies - Garage

• Best for relaxation seekers - Volunteer Park
• Best for families with children - Washington Park Arboretum

• Best for shoppers looking for a deal - Late Night Vintage Market
• Best for fans of live music - Neumos

• Best for nature lovers - Interlaken Park
• Best for dreamers and creative souls - Capitol Hill Wishing Tree
• Best for people looking for community - Cal Anderson

If you’re visiting Seattle, there are a few things you must do in Capitol Hill. From uncovering the neighborhood's history to immersing yourself in its lively activities, these carefully selected attractions and tours offer a genuine taste of what makes this neighborhood truly special. Here are the top attractions and activities in Capitol Hill.

• ‌Perfect For:‌ Literary enthusiasts
• ‌Website:‌ www.elliottbaybook.com
• ‌If You Go:‌ Get a cup of coffee at Little Oddfellows, a quaint cafe located inside the bookstore.

Immerse yourself in the literary haven of Capitol Hill by paying a visit to The Elliott Bay Book Company, an iconic independent bookstore that has been a cherished part of the community since it was first opened in 1973. Its sprawling collection covers everything from fiction to non-fiction, including a dedicated section for local authors and an assortment of art books.

Whether you're a bookworm or an art enthusiast, The Elliott Bay Book Company offers an enriching experience that beautifully captures the essence of Capitol Hill's literary and cultural pulse. Once you’ve had your fill of books, get your fill of ice cream at Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream, located just north of the bookstore.

• ‌Perfect For:‌ Art and culture lovers
• ‌Website:‌ www.seattleartmuseum.org/visit/seattle-asian-art-museum
• ‌If You Go:‌ Visit between Friday and Sunday, as the museum is closed during the rest of the week.

Experience the captivating allure of Asian art right in the heart of Capitol Hill at the Seattle Asian Art Museum. This meticulously curated museum showcases a diverse range of artistic treasures from across Asia, offering visitors an immersive journey through the region's rich cultural heritage.

Found within the beautiful surroundings of Volunteer Park, the museum itself is a work of art, blending historic architecture with modern design. With a collection spanning centuries, from ancient artifacts to contemporary creations, it’s one of the best art galleries in the city, and provides a window into the intricate stories and traditions of Asia, making it one of the best places to visit in Capitol Hill.

• ‌Perfect For:‌ Coffee connoisseurs
• ‌Website:‌ www.starbucksreserve.com/en-us/locations/seattle
• ‌If You Go:‌ Don't miss the chance to witness the coffee roasting process up close and enjoy exclusive coffee blends only available here.

Immerse yourself in the ultimate coffee experience at the heart of the Capitol Hill neighborhood: the Starbucks Reserve Roastery. This haven caters to coffee enthusiasts and foodies alike, offering an unmatched journey into the realm of premium coffee. Just a short walk from Pike Place Market, the Roastery's carefully designed interior showcases the artistry of coffee-making with its gleaming copper pipes and diverse brewing methods.

Even if you consider Starbucks “basic,” keep in mind that there are only six Reserve Roastery locations in the entire world and only three in America, making a visit something you must do in Capitol Hill. As a local, it’s a great spot to hit up in the morning but is also a solid choice for brunch.

Capitol Hill is known for its nightlife, but there’s still plenty to do during the day. Filled with beautiful parks, charming stores, and family-friendly spots, this neighborhood is just as lively during the day as it is after dark. Here are some of the best things to do in Capitol Hill during the day.

• ‌Perfect For:‌ Botanical admirers
• ‌Website:‌ www.volunteerparkconservatory.org
• ‌If You Go:‌ Visit on the first Thursday or Saturday of each month, when admission is free.

Step into a world of enchanting greenery at the Volunteer Park Conservatory, a haven perfect for nature enthusiasts and those who appreciate the beauty of meticulously curated gardens. Nestled within the picturesque Volunteer Park, this botanical gem houses a stunning collection of plants from various climates, housed in distinct glasshouses that replicate their native environments.

From lush tropical foliage to delicate blooms, the conservatory offers a tranquil escape where you can marvel at the intricate details of nature's wonders.

• ‌Perfect For:‌ Social butterflies
• ‌Website:‌ www.bowlero.com/location/garage
• ‌If You Go:‌ Keep in mind that all guests must be at least 21 years old to enter Garage.

Discover the unexpected blend of hip and swank at Garage, where Capitol Hill's premier bowling and billiards experience awaits your visit. With 20 bowling lanes and 25 pool tables in a spacious ex-car dealership, Garage offers a lively social scene set against murals, funky art, and retro lighting. Perfect for a fun afternoon, arrive early to secure your spot and enjoy one of the most entertaining activities in Capitol Hill.

Capitol Hill is celebrated for its lively bar and restaurant scene, but it has a lot to offer outside as well. Filled with inviting parks, this neighborhood is a great place to head outdoors. Here are some of the best places to visit in Capitol Hill if you want some fresh air and sunshine.

• ‌Perfect For:‌ Relaxation
• ‌Website:‌ www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/volunteer-park
• ‌If You Go:‌ Don’t forget to check out the grave sites of martial artist Bruce Lee and his son, Brandon Lee.

When it comes to finding inner peace amidst the urban bustle, Volunteer Park is your sanctuary. This 48.3-acre park situated in the heart of Capitol Hill is a hub of tranquility and relaxation that is sure to enchant anyone who visits. With its lush landscapes, beautiful conservatory, and the iconic Seattle Asian Art Museum, Volunteer Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

• ‌Perfect For:‌ Families with children
• ‌Website:‌ botanicgardens.uw.edu/washington-park-arboretum
• ‌If You Go:‌ While the majority of the Washington Park Arboretum is free to explore, the Japanese Garden does charge a fee to enter.

Washington Park Arboretum is the ideal spot for nature enthusiasts, picnic lovers, and families with kids. A sprawling green space full of beautiful flora, it's a wonderful location to escape city life. This 230-acre lush garden is a part of the University of Washington Botanic Gardens.

Visitors can explore various plant collections, including North American pines, Japanese maples, and magnolias. There's also a waterfront gazebo, a charming spot for a picnic or to simply enjoy the serene view of the lake.

As the sun dips below the horizon, Capitol Hill undergoes a captivating transformation, revealing a dynamic nightlife that's just as inviting as its daytime charm. Known for its bustling streets, wine bars, and music venues, this Seattle neighborhood comes alive in the evening.

Here are the best nighttime activities in Capitol Hill, where the neighborhood's electric spirit takes center stage under the city lights.

• ‌Perfect For:‌ Shoppers looking for a deal
• ‌Website:‌ www.instagram.com/latenightvintagemarket
• ‌If You Go:‌ Check the market’s Instagram account before you go for information about sales, events, and performers.

Discover the Late Night Vintage Market, a unique and vibrant addition to the neighborhood's retail scene. Open on weekends from noon to midnight and Wednesday through Friday from 3:00 p.m. to midnight, this market encapsulates the spirit of Capitol Hill's culture with its mass culture subversion, one-of-a-kind experiences, and the vibrant late-night hours that the area is known for.

Whether you're a vintage enthusiast or simply seeking a unique shopping adventure, the Late Night Vintage Market brings a touch of the neighborhood's spirit to your evening explorations.

• ‌Perfect For:‌ Fans of live music
• ‌Website:‌ www.neumos.com
• ‌If You Go:‌ There is limited seating available at Neumos on a first-come, first-serve basis, so contact the venue in advance if you want somewhere to sit.

For an unforgettable night of live music and vibrant energy, look no further than Neumos. This iconic venue has solidified its reputation as a hub for music enthusiasts and nightlife lovers alike.

Hosting an eclectic array of performances by both local talents and renowned national artists, Neumos offers an electrifying atmosphere where music genres seamlessly blend to create an unforgettable experience. Be sure to plan ahead by checking the event schedule on their website to catch your favorite artists in action.

If you’re wondering what to do in Capitol Hill when you’re on a budget, look no further. This neighborhood has lots to offer for free, and you can definitely enjoy the neighborhood's artsy and lively atmosphere without spending money.

From walking in pretty parks to exploring local art, there are many things to do that won't cost you a thing. Check out some of the best things to do in Capitol Hill for free and enjoy the neighborhood's unique vibe without worrying about your wallet.

• ‌Perfect For:‌ Nature lovers
• ‌Website:‌ www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/interlaken-park
• ‌If You Go:‌ This is a popular spot for biking, so be aware of your surroundings as you enjoy the trails.

Nestled amidst the urban landscape, Interlaken Park offers an idyllic retreat for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts in Capitol Hill. A haven of lush greenery and winding trails, this park provides a tranquil oasis where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city. As you wander along its paths, you'll discover the serenity of nature while enjoying sweeping vistas of both the city skyline and the serene waters of Lake Union.

• ‌Perfect For:‌ Dreamers and creative souls
• ‌Website:‌ www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069194646801
• ‌If You Go:‌ Visit the Capitol Hill Wishing Tree and Interlaken Park in the same day — the tree is located just three blocks from the south entrance of the park.

Tap into the whimsical and artistic spirit of Capitol Hill by paying a visit to the enchanting Capitol Hill Wishing Tree. Nestled within a neighborhood, this tree has transformed into a vibrant canvas of dreams and aspirations, adorned with colorful ribbons and fabric.

A reflection of the community's creative essence, the tree invites passersby to contribute their own wishes and dreams. It's a heartwarming and inspiring experience that embodies the neighborhood's unique blend of artistic expression and community connection. You can find it at 2451 Delmar Drive East.

• ‌Perfect For:‌ Finding community
• ‌Website:‌ www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/cal-anderson-park
• ‌If You Go:‌ Join in local events and activities that often take place in this lively park, from outdoor concerts to yoga sessions.

At the heart of Capitol Hill lies the bustling and vibrant Cal Anderson Park, a hub of recreation and community engagement. Located not far from Broadway Street, this urban oasis offers a diverse range of activities for everyone, from picnicking and people-watching to skateboarding and organized sports.

Join in the local events and gatherings that frequently animate the park, immersing yourself in the neighborhood's dynamic spirit. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely stroll, soaking in the sun, or participating in various happenings, Cal Anderson Park embodies the lively essence of Capitol Hill and stands as a welcoming space for both residents and visitors alike.

Not far from downtown Seattle, Capitol Hill is a lively part of the city that shows off the city's creative side. It has a unique feel, diverse people, and great views, all of which make it a real Seattle experience. Whether you're shopping, visiting a museum, checking out the nightlife, or relaxing in parks, Capitol Hill has lots of fun things to do. This travel guide shares the best things to do there, so you can have a great time and experience the neighborhood's charm, whether you're new to the area or you live nearby.