Top Instagrammable Spots in Seattle
Unless you’re on Instagram solely to see pictures of your friends, chances are you’re sharing photos for the likes. While playing the hashtag game is essential, nailing awesome angles is crucial. Therefore, you need to seek out locations that are popular enough to attract interest, yet unique enough to showcase an angle that hasn’t been widely shared. Look for different viewpoints of iconic spots like the Great Wheel, hidden gems on the carousel at Miner’s Landing, or finer details that might go unnoticed at first glance.
Fortunately, Seattle is rich in such locations. Although the major tourist attractions are well-known, this list focuses on less obvious spots. Capture your snaps of Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, but don’t stop there. From breathtaking views to unexpected perspectives of city landmarks, here are 10 of the most Instagrammable spots in Seattle.
Viewpoints
Pictures with great views are always a winner on Instagram, and Seattle offers multiple spots for expansive cityscapes. The top of the Space Needle provides an excellent vantage point for breathtaking shots of the city below, Lake Union, the Puget Sound, Mt. Rainier, and other stunning scenery. On clear days, this viewpoint is especially rewarding. Additionally, consider visiting the Columbia Tower or the water tower at Volunteer Park for alternative perspectives.
The Seattle Skyline
Seattle boasts a stunning skyline, prominently featuring the Space Needle, impressive skyscrapers, and twin stadiums. Capturing this skyline can significantly boost your Instagram likes. Alki Beach provides one of the most picturesque aspects of Seattle’s skyline, especially lovely in late afternoon or evening light. Alternatively, Kerry Park presents a different view that showcases the Space Needle in front of the city and Mt. Rainier at a distance, creating a dramatic composition.
Flying into Seattle
As flights approach Sea-Tac International Airport, they often provide great aerial views of downtown Seattle. Depending on your flight path, you may capture stunning shots from the right side of the plane, featuring notable skyscrapers and sports stadiums. Many flights also pass by Mt. Rainier, offering an unforgettable photographic opportunity that can enhance your Instagram feed.
Waterfall Garden
Discover an unexpected waterfall right in the heart of downtown at Pioneer Square’s Waterfall Garden. This peaceful spot invites Instagram photos that capture the waterfall from various angles—whether up close, at a distance, or using interesting photography techniques. Additionally, using the hashtag #PioneerSquare can help introduce others to this hidden gem while earning you likes.
Cherry Blossoms
Seattle shines in the spring with its beautiful cherry blossoms. If you’re fortunate to have clear weather during cherry blossom season, capturing these fleeting blooms is a must. Parks, neighborhoods, and streets fill with cherry blossoms, but the Quad at the University of Washington is an exceptional choice. This location boasts Seattle’s largest cherry blossom stand, providing a colorful backdrop for both macro and landscape photos.
Seattle Art Museum Lobby
Even without entry to the museum, the Seattle Art Museum’s lobby offers a perfect backdrop for artistic photos. Visitors can often find intriguing exhibits on display, allowing for a culturally rich and visually appealing Instagram shot.
Seattle Library
The Seattle Central Library is an architectural treasure. With its jagged, angular exterior and creative interior features, it’s brimming with photo opportunities. The unique color palette and design create interesting backdrops—from the glass-and-metal entryway to bright red hallways and lively escalators, making every shot captivating.
Gasworks Park
Gasworks Park is a must-visit for Instagram enthusiasts. With its rusty relics from the former Seattle Gas Light Company and the picturesque backdrop of Lake Union and downtown Seattle, the park offers numerous unique photo opportunities. Look for surprising close-up angles as you explore the park’s fascinating structures.
Fremont Troll
The Fremont Troll is an iconic Seattle landmark and a favorite for Instagrammers. Capturing this whimsical troll grasping a Volkswagen Beetle offers a unique addition to any feed. Explore different angles, focusing on the troll’s expressive features, to create memorable images.
Garden and Glass
Garden and Glass is a renowned tourist attraction filled with a stunning array of vibrant art and captivating angles featuring the Space Needle. Local artist Dale Chihuly’s glass installations provide a fantastic backdrop for eye-catching Instagram photos. Remember to pay attention to your photo’s contrast and colors to enhance the stunning visuals.