Welcome to July, Seattle! It’s summer and that means it’s time to get out there and see what’s happening around the city. Seattle has plenty to do this month between live music, performances, food & drink events, and more. Without further ado, here are 45 of the best things to do in and around Seattle this July.
Music
Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Too $hort & More – H.S. Reunion Tour 2023
Snoop Dogg is coming to Washington with a whole crew. As one of the most recognizable figures in hip-hop, his performance alone is set to be a big one. The additional performances of Wiz Khalifa, Too $hort and others are sure to make the concert even more fun.
When: Sunday, July 9th, 2023
Where: White River, Amphitheatre, 40601 Auburn Enumclaw Rd SE, Auburn, WA
Cost: $59+
Have a blast from the 2010’s past with Portland’s STRFKR. The semi-local band is known for its genre-blending music fusing infectious indie pop with electronic and psychedelic elements.
When: Wednesday, July 12th, 2023
Where: The Crocodile,2505 1st Ave
Cost: $39.50+
An Evening With Cowboy Junkies
Cowboy Junkies are a Canadian alternative country and folk rock band. Through their nearly 4 decades-long careers, Cowboy Junkies have become enduring icons in the alternative music landscape.
When: Friday, July 14th, 2023
Where: Neptune Theatre, 1303 NE 45th St
Cost: $37.50
Panda Bear aka Noah Lennox, is an influential American musician and founding member of the experimental pop band Animal Collective. Panda Bear creates a sonic world that merges elements of psychedelic, electronic, and folk music. He’ll also be joined by Sonic Boom.
When: Sunday, July 16th, 2023
Where: Neptune Theatre, 1303 NE 45th St
Cost: $31
This one-day house music festival features artists Chris Lake, MK B2B Green Velvet, Dombresky, TokiMonsta, Cassian, Miane, Friendly Fire, and Tony H. It all takes place at scenic Myrtle Edwards Park.
When: Sunday, July 16th, 2023
Where: Myrtle Edwards Waterfront
Cost: $79.99+
The Chateau Saint Michelle concert series is a popular one and as such, Sheryl Crow’s concert tickets are all resale prices. Now if you’re a big fan you might just find that it’s worth it to pay the price and see Ms. Crow in the flesh.
When: Thursday, July 20th, 2023
Where: Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, 14111 NE 145th St, Woodinville, WA
Cost: $312+
A name you might not be familiar with unless you use TikTok, d4vd has risen in popularity among users of the app. That being said both his songs “Romantic Homicide” and “Here With Me” have experienced international chart success so you’ll probably be hearing more of him in the future.
When: Friday, July 21st, 2023
Where: Showbox at the Market, 1426 1st Ave
Cost: $44+
The 2023 Capitol Hill Block Party will see A-List headliners like Sofi Tukker, Denzel Curry, Louis the Child, Pinkpantheress, Goth Babe, and Madeon. Alongside will be much-loved local talent including Acid Tongue, DJ/producer Samurai Del, Sea Lemon, Talaya, and many more.
When: Friday, July 21st-Sunday, July 23rd, 2023
Where: 1122 E Pike Street, Seattle, WA
Cost: $95-$550
Paramore is one of the early 2000s most iconic rock bands, perhaps most recognizable for the band’s powerful vocalist Hayley Williams. Known for their energetic performances and dynamic sound, Paramore seamlessly blends elements of pop punk, alternative rock, and emo influences.
When: Monday, July 24th, 2023
Where: Climate Pledge Arena, 334 1st Ave N
Cost: $123+
Everybody wants to rule the world… and it’s safe to say Tears for Fears does. The influential British band has been at it since the 80s and is recognized for pioneering the new wave and synth-pop genres. You also probably know at least a few of their infectious tunes.
When: Thursday, July 27th, 2023
Where: Climate Pledge Arena, 334 1st Ave N
Cost: $29.50+
Arts & Culture
Dancing ‘til Dusk is back for its 16th year, bringing Seattle Parks and Recreation and partners together for 14 glorious nights of outdoor dancing. The event happens across parks in Seattle and begins with a dance lesson for the first hour. No experience is needed but keep in mind the class rotates partners. If you’d prefer not to, you can bring a partner to the lesson.
When: Tuesday, July 11th-Thursday, August 31st
Where: Parks around Seattle
Cost: Free/Varies
It’s time to get outdoors! If you’re hesitant to hike but happy to take your indoor activities outside, checking out an outdoor movie is a great choice. There are several places you can catch flicks outdoor this month and some are even free!
Queer folk artist Joey Veltkamp has a selection of works on view at Greg Kucera currently. You can check out “soft paintings” – amazing quilts with a variety of images as well as text.
When: Until July 1st
Where: 212 Third Ave S
Cost: Free
On the first Thursday of each month, Seattleites can check out the Moth StorySLAM. For this event guests are asked to prepare a five-minute story about being proud.
When: First Thursday of every month
Where: 4272 Fremont Ave N
Cost: $15
A digital map allows you to pick and choose where you stop on the Capitol Hill Art Walk. Stop by small galleries, local businesses, and more on this monthly art walk.
When: Second Thursday of every month
Where: Capitol Hill
Cost: Free
Free Public Tours of Washington Park Arboretum
The Arboretum is one of Seattle’s best spots for getting outdoors, especially in the summer. While you can walk it by yourself at any time, you can also enjoy free tours on the first Thursday of each month from 11:30 am-1 pm.
When: First Thursday of every month
Where: 2300 Arboretum Drive E
Cost: Free
SAM is hosting a ton of different free events this summer. Expect activities and performances that combine visual art, music, and community. There will also be evening concerts with food trucks and art making, daytime movement classes, tours, and community partner activities. So much to do!
When: July 13th-August 12th, 2023
Where: 2901 Western Ave
Cost: Free
Silent Reading Party: In-Person
The beloved Silent Reading Party is back in person if you’d like to have the experience of reading amongst strangers inside the beautiful Hotel Sorrento. Keep in mind there is a $20 food and drink minimum on top of your ticket price.
When: First Wednesday of each month
Where: 900 Madison St
Cost: $8-$40
Guests will be able to enjoy live music, food and check out hundreds of vendors at the festival’s street fair. You can also choose to take a farm tour to see how it’s all grown, pick your own lavender to take home, and even watch on-farm demonstrations. If you miss the festival you can always check out Pelindaba Lavender which is always free to visit.
When: July 21st-23rd
Where: Sequim, WA
Cost: Free/Varies
Stranger Things: The Experience (Seattle)
Your immersive Stranger Things experience is comprised of two parts. The first is the Hawkins Lab where you’ll volunteer as a test subject and embark on an interactive journey full of strange surprises. The second part is Mix-Tape – an 80’s themed hangout where you can explore nostalgic shops and iconic locations from the show, nosh on themed food & cocktails from the Stranger Things Bar, and enjoy plenty of photo ops.
When: Until August 6th
Where: 1750 Occidental Ave, Seattle WA
Cost: $29+
Food & Drink
Scooped! All You Can Eat Ice Cream Festival
This all-you-can-eat ice cream festival features over 75 of the best local and national ice cream brands. The festival features live music, a diverse variety of food vendors, giant games, and more.
When: July 8th & 9th
Where: 305 Harrison St
Cost: $35-$75 per day
This annual festival brings together the best of Ballard and beyond. You’ll find live music, fun for all, local restaurants and vendors, and a large craft beer showcase.
When: July 14th-16th
Where: Ballard
Cost: Free/Varies
Three Sacks Full Dinner Pop-Up
This local pop-up restaurant features a menu largely based on vegetables and grains. Every two weeks you can try an original menu with organic produce grown on the pop-up’s farm in the Snoqualmie Valley. Other ingredients not grown on the farm are always sourced from farms across Washington and Oregon.
When: Every two weeks
Where: Varies by pick-up date
Cost: Varies by dish
The festival promises more than 200 vendors this year as well as more than 50 musical guests including headliner Sir-Mix-A-Lot. Some of the featured vendors include Chang Thai, Big Island Poke, Sugar + Spoon and more to be announced.
When: July 21st-23rd
Where: Seattle Center
Cost: Free-$75/Varies
Food Truck Fest invites you to spice up your lunch with a mini food court of options. On the last Wednesday of each month, five local trucks will take over the park. Beyond eats, you can enjoy free live music and games for the perfect lunchtime break.
When: Until August 30th
Where: Westlake Park
Cost: Varies
As we face colder temperatures, it’s time to head indoors and start your weekends off right with a tasty brunch. From classic offerings to experimental fusion dishes, these spots are worth a try. We’ve compiled a list of the best brunch spots to check out in Seattle this winter.
Grab a drink at a beautiful lobby bar
If you’re looking for a new place to grab drinks in Seattle this weekend, heading to a local hotel is a great choice. Many of our city’s hotels have beautiful bars that also happen to be available to the public. Here are 5 of the swankiest hotel bars you can grab a drink at in Seattle.
Local natural wine shop and bar La Dive actually offers a monthly wine subscription! When you sign up you can choose between three different subscription options. The first option is two bottles a month for $42, then four for $84, or six for $120.
Comfort food is an easy choice when you’re hungry and looking for something to eat. It just so happens that Seattle has a ton of options scattered around the city with most of them being pretty affordable. From sweet to savory, we have some spots for you.
Outdoors & Adventure
If you’re looking for somewhere to swim laps, take lessons, or just want to see what Seattle public pools are like, you’re in luck because they are officially open. Or you can always opt to rent a private pool if that’s more up your alley.
Sure Washington may not seem like the likely place for sand dunes but it turns out that we do have a few. Whether you’re looking for an otherworldly oasis or a place to try out UTV’s, there’s a dune for you.
Love the idea of camping but don’t want to deal with all the nitty-gritty details? Glamping might just be for you. Think small cabins, some more rustic than others, or yurts and canvas tents.
See if you know all of Seattle’s secret beaches
We all know Seattle’s popular beaches like Alki and Golden Gardens. But it turns out there are a ton of secret beaches, 140 of them to be exact. What’s more there might be one closer to you than you think. We have of course detailed how you can find out this *highly* secretive information thanks to a handy map.
Try one of Washington’s best hikes
If you’ve ever wondered what the best hikes in Washington are, we have your answer. We took a look at AllTrails rankings and have compiled 10 of the state’s most popular hikes for you to enjoy.
Why go to a city pool when you can go to one in nature? Washington has several swimming holes scattered around the state and you should check them out this summer. What’s more, many are closer to Seattle than you might think.
Now that the days are getting warmer and longer you might be looking for ways to cool off. What’s a more memorable way to do that than by hiking to and enjoying a local waterfall? Washington state has many, with several closer to the city than you might think.
Walking tours are cool and all but why not experience Seattle from a birds-eye view? Don’t worry, you don’t have to have a pilot’s license, instead, you can choose from one of several plane tours offered in and around the Seattle area.
With summer well underway, there are tons of places to catch glimpses of wildflowers. Whether you want to partake in a long and challenging hike or something on the easier side, we have options for you.
Have you ever sat on the shores of Lake Washington or Puget Sound and thought “dang I wish I could be out there?” Well, you can be, Seattle actually has an online boat rental service that’s similar to your favorite vacation rental getaway sites. From simple hour excursions to whole day trips, captain-guided tours and more, it’s all available.
Misc
The Fremont Market is truly a classic Seattle shopping experience and it happens year-round, rain or shine. It’s a great place to find antiques, vintage clothing, and much more.
When: Every Sunday
Where: Evanston Ave N & 34th St
You may or may not know but Seattle actually has 5 museums that you can always visit for free. We’ve listed them out and given you some details so you can take yourself on the perfect adventure.
The Northwest Tune-Up Festival “is a bike, beer, and music festival held in celebration of PNW culture.” It takes place in Bellingham with live biking, plenty of brews, and 20+ artists on the waterfront stages.
When: Friday, July 14th-Sunday July 16th, 2023
Where: Bellingham, WA
Cost: $74+
Check out Washington State Parks
You can literally check Washington State Parks out of the Seattle Public Library. Well almost, you can check out a Discover Pass which allows you to visit Washington State Parks for free. Keep in mind if you plan on camping you will still have to pay for your spot.
Mindfulness Meditation at the Frye
Need to take some time to get back in touch with yourself? You’re in luck because The Frye has a free, mindfulness meditation that you can attend on the first Wednesday of the month. It’s one of the most relaxing things to do in Seattle for sure.
Get some work done in a new space
Next, a trio of some “regular”, but still fun, options around the city. If working from home is getting a little old, then maybe check out our roundup of some of the best cafes in the city to get some work done.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Look at all the things to do in Seattle! Have a great June.
