Weather in Seattle in November
While hotel deals run rampant, Seattle in November is gloomy, rainy, and not suitable for outdoor sightseeing. With temperatures dropping to 50 degrees F, the sea is too cold for activities and roads are difficult to drive. However, if you love winter sports, Mount Rainier has amazing skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The best option is to stay indoors and explore the city’s coffee shops, comedy clubs, museums, and restaurants. Don’t let the weather deter you from an amazing sightseeing experience in Seattle in November.
12 Best Things to do in Seattle in November
1. City Coffee Tour for a Caffeine Rush
There’s nothing like a hot cup of coffee to warm you up on a cold November morning! The city is teeming with coffee shops with at least one in every block. Check out the first Starbucks in Pike Place Market, La Marzocco, Elm Coffee Roasters, and Watson's Counter for some of the country’s finest roasted coffee! Fancy spending some alone time, grab a book from Elliot bookstore and spend the morning in a cosy cafe.
2. Restaurants for a Lip-Smacking Meal
Seattle’s cuisine is as diverse as its population. Vietnamese, Japanese, Italian, Seafood, fresh produce, and chocolates make up most of the city’s popular dining palate. Munch on some delicious oysters in Kamonegi, try some pho at Mekong Village, and the iconic Seattle Dog at food stands downtown. Some other popular restaurants are Stateside, Little Neon Taco, Bar del Corso, The Walrus, and the Carpenter. Escape the weather and enjoy a hot meal indoors in Seattle in November!
3. Markets to Shop till You Drop!
Shopping is another refuge when it’s pouring rain outside. Seattle has a bustling shopping scene from local businesses, boutiques, and big retailers. Pike Place Market is the quintessential Seattle experience. It has everything from the famous clam chowder, fish, and fresh produce from the farmer’s markets. For quieter and offbeat shopping, check out Chophouse Row. You can also find shops at Pacific Place, Westlake Center, University district, and Bravern.
4. Take a stroll in Downtown Seattle
Easily accessible, Downtown Seattle has enough spots to fill up your day. The Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibition and Space Needle are Seattle icons and cannot be missed! Visit the Seattle Public Library for a quiet afternoon read or take the kids to the Seattle Aquarium! For a taste of culture, visit the Marion Oliver McCaw Hall and buy tickets to the ballet or opera.
5. Ferry Trips for Magical views of the Pacific Northwest
Enjoy the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Bremerton is a popular one day trip by ferry! It is very affordable and is a Naval town! Visit the naval shipyard and permanently docked ships like USS Turner Joy. Stroll around this quaint town or spend a day by the water! Bainbridge Island is another one-day getaway. With stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, you can explore the town’s cafes, galleries, parks, and restaurants by car or bicycle.
6. Earshot Jazz Festival- Music to your Ears!
Every November, the Earshot Jazz Festival puts up a vibrant and lively Jazz music festival with jazz musicians and enthusiasts from the greater Seattle area to continue the legacy and history of jazz music. The 33-day event is a celebration of African-American roots and presents nearly 100 concerts a year. Support local artists, keep this art form alive, and enjoy a night of jazz at various theatres around Seattle.
7. Seattle International Comedy Competition
Held every year since 1980, the Seattle International Comedy Competition is America’s largest touring comedy festival. It is held at various venues throughout Washington State and features comedians from the U.S., Canada, UK, and Japan. Laugh your guts out every night throughout November and root for your favourite comedian!
8. Skiing and Snowboarding for the Adrenaline Rush
Winter sports are prevalent in Seattle in November. Beginners and experts alike flock to the mountains for an adventure on snowy slopes. Snoqualmie Pass, Stevens Pass, Crystal Mountain, and Mount Baker ski area are the most popular ski resorts that offer Mount Rainier and the Cascade Mountains’ stunning views. Gear is available to rent, and other facilities like snowshoeing, trekking, and restaurants are available in most resorts too. Enjoy a day out on the slopes!
9. Museums for a Lesson in History
Seattle has a rich history and a diverse community of Asians, Europeans, and Native Americans. The Museums in Seattle reflect this heritage. Visit Nordic Heritage Museum, Museum of Pop Culture, Seattle Art Museum, and Wing Luke Museum. While Seattle in November is cold and wet, spend a day immersed in history indoors at these museums.
10. Watch the Seahawks Home Games Live!
11. Holiday Wine Fest
Celebrate the World of Wine, Beer & Spirits at the Holiday Wine Fest. Stay indoors in Seattle in November and sip on wines from all over the world from Bainbridge to New Zealand. Finish your Christmas Wine Shopping or spend a day away from the stress of daily life! Try a range of international wines, regions, beer, cider, and artisanal spirits.
12. The Northwest Chocolate Festival
For Children and Children at heart, the Northwest Chocolate Festival is an amazing event in Seattle in November. With world-class education workshops, 20+ countries of global exhibitors, and indulgent chocolate tastes! This festival is a delight to chocolate aficionados. Taste chocolate from across the world, meet cocoa farmers and pastry chefs!
Seattle in November is a wonderful time to visit the city. With cheap airline fares and affordable hotel options, there are many exciting indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy!