January: Rainy and Cold
Weather in Seattle, Washington: January is characterized by chilly temperatures, usually ranging from 36°F to 47°F (2°C to 8°C). The days are short, grey, and rainy, with about 18 days of precipitation on average. Snow is rare but can occasionally occur.
Activities:
- Indoor Adventures: Escape the cold by visiting indoor attractions like the Museum of Pop Culture, Seattle Art Museum, or catch a show at McCaw Hall.
- Winter Escapes: Take a trip to the Cascade Mountains for skiing or snowboarding at Snoqualmie Pass or Crystal Mountain.
Essential Gear:
- Waterproof jacket
- Insulated boots
- Warm layers (thermal shirts, wool sweaters)
- Waterproof gloves and a beanie
February: Chilly with Frequent Rain
Weather in Seattle, Washington: February remains cold, with temperatures hovering between 36°F and 50°F (2°C to 10°C). Rain continues to dominate, but daylight hours begin to stretch slightly longer.
Activities:
- Rainy Day Fun: Visit the Seattle Aquarium or explore the wonders of the Pacific Science Center.
- Outdoor Strolls: On dry days, bundle up and take a walk through Discovery Park or Kubota Garden, which offer some winter beauty even in the rain.
Essential Gear:
- Waterproof shoes
- Umbrella or rain poncho
- Fleece layers for added warmth
- Waterproof bag to protect electronics
March: Slightly Warmer with Persistent Rain
Weather in Seattle, Washington: March brings a gradual rise in temperature, ranging from 40°F to 54°F (4°C to 12°C). Rain showers are still frequent, but early signs of spring begin to appear.
Activities:
- Cherry Blossom Season: Head to the University of Washington to see the cherry blossoms in bloom, typically peaking late in the month.
- Museum Visits: Enjoy cultural stops at the Burke Museum of Natural History or the Frye Art Museum.
Essential Gear:
- Light waterproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Portable umbrella
- Waterproof backpack
April: Spring Showers and Mild Temperatures
Weather in Seattle, Washington: April’s temperatures range from 45°F to 60°F (7°C to 16°C). The city experiences less rain, though drizzles and overcast skies remain common. Flowers begin to bloom, brightening the cityscape.
Activities:
- Tulip Festival: Visit Skagit Valley to witness the spectacular Tulip Festival.
- Spring Hikes: Explore low-elevation hikes like Rattlesnake Ledge or Twin Falls.
Essential Gear:
- Waterproof outerwear
- Light hiking boots
- Quick-dry clothing
- Sunglasses (just in case the sun comes out)
May: Milder Days with Occasional Rain
Weather in Seattle, Washington: May sees temperatures rise to a comfortable range of 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C). Rain tapers off, though you’ll still want to be prepared for the occasional shower.
Activities:
- Seattle by Foot: Take advantage of clearer skies with a visit to Pike Place Market, Gas Works Park, or the Seattle Great Wheel.
- Kayaking and Boating: Head out onto Lake Union for kayaking or paddleboarding.
Essential Gear:
- Water-resistant jacket
- Lightweight layers
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen and hat for sunny breaks
June: Warmer and Sunnier
Weather in Seattle, Washington: June is often pleasantly mild, with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C). Sunny days are more frequent, though you may still encounter some rain.
Activities:
- Hiking Season: Embark on popular trails like Mount Si or Snoqualmie Falls.
- Outdoor Markets: Explore the local farmers’ markets, such as the Ballard Farmers Market.
Essential Gear:
- Light jacket for cooler mornings
- Hiking boots
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle
July: Sunny and Warm
Weather in Seattle, Washington: July marks the arrival of summer, with average temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (16°C to 24°C). The skies are mostly clear, and rain is rare.
Activities:
- Outdoor Festivals: Enjoy Seafair, Bite of Seattle, and other outdoor festivals.
- Beach Day: Visit Alki Beach or Golden Gardens for swimming, volleyball, or a bonfire.
Essential Gear:
- Shorts and t-shirts
- Sunscreen and hat
- Beach towel and sandals
- Sunglasses
August: Warm and Dry
Weather in Seattle, Washington: August is Seattle’s warmest month, with highs of 62°F to 78°F (17°C to 26°C). Clear skies dominate, and outdoor activities thrive in the mild heat.
Activities:
- Whale Watching: Go on a whale-watching tour to see orcas and humpback whales around the San Juan Islands.
- Camping and Hiking: Explore Mount Rainier National Park or camp at Deception Pass State Park.
Essential Gear:
- Light clothing (shorts, tank tops)
- Hiking shoes
- Sunscreen and hat
- Reusable water bottle for hydration
September: Transition to Fall
Weather in Seattle, Washington: September remains warm, with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C). However, the first signs of fall begin to appear, and rain slowly returns later in the month.
Activities:
- Fall Hikes: Witness the autumn colors by hiking in Mount Baker or Leavenworth.
- Harvest Festivals: Attend fall harvest festivals in the surrounding areas.
Essential Gear:
- Light layers
- Water-resistant jacket
- Hiking boots
- Camera to capture fall foliage
October: Cool and Wet
Weather in Seattle, Washington: October brings cooler weather, with temperatures ranging from 48°F to 60°F (9°C to 15°C). Rain becomes more frequent, with about 15 days of precipitation.
Activities:
- Pumpkin Patches: Visit pumpkin patches near Seattle, like Bob’s Corn or Craven Farm.
- Halloween Events: Check out Georgetown Morgue or Seattle’s Haunted Houses.
Essential Gear:
- Waterproof jacket
- Comfortable rain boots
- Umbrella and waterproof bag
November: Rainy and Cooler
Weather in Seattle, Washington: Temperatures in November range from 43°F to 53°F (6°C to 12°C), with frequent rain and foggy mornings. The days grow shorter, and winter feels just around the corner.
Activities:
- Holiday Shopping: Explore the festive atmosphere at Pike Place Market or the Seattle Holiday Market.
- Indoor Attractions: Visit the Seattle Aquarium or catch a show at the Paramount Theatre.
Essential Gear:
- Waterproof coat
- Warm layers (fleece, sweaters)
- Umbrella and waterproof shoes
December: Cold and Wet with Festive Cheer
Weather in Seattle, Washington: December is cold and wet, with temperatures between 37°F and 48°F (3°C to 9°C). Snow is rare but can happen, especially in the surrounding mountains.
Activities:
- Holiday Lights: Visit Leavenworth for the Christmas Festival or the Wildlights at Woodland Park Zoo.
- Ice Skating: Skate at Seattle Center’s Winterfest or Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink.
Essential Gear:
- Insulated jacket
- Waterproof gloves and hat
- Warm boots
- Scarf for extra warmth
