15 Top Things to Do in Fremont, Seattle

kayakers on the river, , one of the top things to do in Fremont, Seattle

The fact that I used to live in Fremont makes it easy for me to put together a list of the top things to do in Fremont, Seattle. This bohemian neighborhood is full of eclectic street art, interesting architecture, quirky stores, and a vibrant food scene. Plus it’s right on a gorgeous lake only 10 minutes from downtown, making it the perfect pit stop when visiting Seattle.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, friends, or family, there’s a little bit of everything for everyone in Fremont. Use this guide to explore one of the artsiest neighborhoods in Seattle like a local.

15 Top Things to do in Fremont, Seattle

Save this to Pinterest for later because I’ll add more to this list of the top things to do in Fremont, Seattle as I discover new ideas!

Do a self-guided food tour

website | various locations around Fremont | best for: foodies

The first time I set foot in Fremont, I felt overwhelmed by how many drool-worthy restaurants and hole-in-the-wall spots there were. But as I ate my way through Fremont over the years, I put together a no-nonsense self-guided food tour to help you find the BEST spots.

I managed to narrow it down to 8 of my all-time favorite eateries, but there are 12 additional “worthy mentions” that will help you customize your experience. And the best part? You’ll be supporting small businesses and be able to explore Fremont like a true-blue local!

You can expect info like the type of ambiance to expect at each spot, tricks for getting your food quickly, and the best items on the menu to try out. There’s no guesswork – just a one-way ticket to foodie heaven.

Kayak Lake Union

website | 2100 Westlake Ave N Suite #1 (Northwest Outdoor Center) (get directions) | best for: adventure lovers and water babies

There’s nothing I like doing more than kayaking on Lake Union. It’s of the more unique things to do in Fremont, Seattle and gives you unmatched views of Lake Union and the city skyline.

Renting a kayak couldn’t be easier either. I usually head to Northwest Outdoor Center as they have a ton of equipment and are right by the water’s edge. But Moss Bay and Agua Verde Paddle Club are also reliable picks for boats, paddles, gear, and lessons. The weather in Seattle can turn on a dime. So, I recommend wearing light layers and bringing a backpack with sunscreen and a hat to protect your skin.

While I’m on the water, I love taking photos, observing sea planes taking off, and snooping in the house boats. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might want to head northwest to the Ship Canal to watch the tugboats bringing in their catch of the day. Whatever you do, start your day early and keep close to the shoreline to avoid any tour boats.

Want to ride a boat instead of a kayak? You can rent a hot tub boat or electric boat that you drive yourself, or take a private tour.

view of Interbay in Seattle from a kayak

Visit Gas Works Park

website | 2101 N Northlake Way (get directions) | best for: panoramas of Seattle’s skyline

Gas Works Park is one of Seattle’s most popular green spaces. But what makes it slightly different is the fact that it’s built around a historic gasification plant. Because of the setting, it’s one of the weirdest and most wonderful things to do in Fremont, Seattle by a mile. And don’t worry – there’s dedicated parking onsite to make things easy for day-trippers!

If you’re traveling with little ones or want to embrace your inner child, fly a kite over the grassy knolls or head to the large play barn. I’d say the biggest draw of Gas Works Park is the views. When it’s not raining, you’ll get amazing vistas of downtown Seattle and the glittering waters of Lake Union.

Gas Works machinery in Gas Works Park on Lake Union in Seattle

Explore Fremont shops and boutiques

I used to wonder why Fremont was called the “Center of the Universe,” but as soon as I properly explored this charming neighborhood’s boutiques and stores, it all made sense.

The Fremont Vintage Mall has been one of my favorite spots to grab vintage clothing in Seattle for years. It’s packed with weird bric-a-brac and old-school silhouettes which I can spend hours sifting through.

If you’re a music fan, you can’t beat Jive Time Records for pristine vinyl. Want to bring home locally-made gifts? Portage Bay Goods and Sfingiday are must stops. Fashionistas should peruse Les Amis and Pipe & Row. Basically, there’s a store for everyone in downtown Fremont!

Take a chocolate factory tour

website | 3400 Phinney Ave N (get directions) | best for: chocoholics visiting Seattle for the first time

When I first moved to the Emerald City, I knew I had to check out the Theo Factory Experience. Maybe because I lived only a few blocks away and could smell chocolate at all times.

The tour takes you inside Theo Chocolate and is a complete slam dunk for anyone with a sweet tooth. The tour lasts around an hour and is a fully interactive look into the chocolate-making process.

Not only will you uncover how chocolate is made, but the team will teach you about their fair-trade sourcing methods. Oh, and don’t forget the all-important tastings. On the way out, you’ll have the chance to snag as many bars as you want before checking out the Fremont Rocket down the street.

It’s super easy to book your tour online and it’s only around $14 per person. Their weekend and holiday slots tend to fill up quickly, so it’s important to book before heading down. And sadly, kiddos under 5 won’t be permitted on the factory tour.

person holding chocolate confections from the best chocolate made in Seattle

Walk or bike the Burke-Gilman

website | get directions | best for: avid walkers and bikers

The Burke-Gilman Trail is one of my favorite ways to get to Gas Works Park from the center of Fremont. It’s a simple paved trail that boasts some of the best Seattle viewpoints around. If you’re feeling brave, you can tackle the whole 27-mile trail by bike. It spans from Ballard to Kenmore and is a gorgeous way to get a hit of activity into your day.

If you decide to peddle the trail, it’s worth heading west and checking out Ballard. You can go all the way to the Ballard Locks, stopping at one of the many amazing Ballard breweries for a quick sip along the way. You can also stop in downtown Ballard for more shopping and to do my self-guided Ballard food tour.

person biking along the Burke-Gilman Trail, one of the top things to do in Fremont, Seattle

Snap a photo with the Fremont Troll

N 36^th St (get directions) | best for: artistic types who love photography

You can’t visit Seattle without checking out our very own troll under the bridge. It’s a truly unique piece of art that showcases Seattle’s quirky side. This enormous sculpture was constructed by Steve Badanes after it won a Fremont Arts Council competition back in 1990.

I always suggest getting here as early as possible because this attraction gets more crowded as the day wears on. This way, you’ll be able to snap photos without other tourists ruining your shots. If you have time, explore the artsy Fremont Murals that are dotted around near 46^th Street and Bridge Way.

Fremont Troll sculpture, one of top things to do in Fremont, Seattle

Check out the Fremont Sunday Market

website | 3410 Evanston Ave N. (get directions) | best for: antique knickknacks and incredible views

Fremont Sunday Market is one of my go-to farmers markets in Seattle for independent crafts, artisan goods, and knickknacks. There’s some fresh produce lying around, but the focus is on fashion and gifts for the most part. The location is killer as it’s perched right by the water for next-level views. Just be warned that they move under the Aurora Bridge during the winter months.

This is one of my top things to do in Fremont, Seattle as there’s just so much going on. From the parking garage packed with vintage clothing to the rows of food trucks, you’re unlikely to walk away with nothing.

The market is open between 10 am and 4 pm every Sunday regardless of the weather. You can probably cover it in an hour or so, but I’d leave two to be safe.

Visit Woodland Park Zoo

website | 5500 Phinney Ave N (get directions) | best for: fascinating exhibits and visiting endangered wildlife species

Woodland Park Zoo is a 92-acre wildlife conservation area right on the edge of Fremont near Phinney Ridge. It’s home to over 900 animals and they have an amazing wildlife conservation program that protects endangered species. I would know, as I used to be a photo intern there!

The “We Are Living Northwest”, “Forests For All”, and Humboldt Penguin exhibits are always worth visiting. But don’t be disappointed if you find the Butterfly Garden closed. It’s only open during the warmer months!

As things can get quite busy at the gates, you’ll want to book a ticket in advance. It’s also best to visit as early as possible after opening at 9:30 am. The gates close at 4 pm on Mondays and 3 pm for the rest of the week which doesn’t give you tons of time. I’d say you’ll want at least 2.5 hours to cover the entire zoo and the vintage carousel. But a full day is best if you’re visiting with kids who want to check out the play space.

Sample local beers

If you’re a beer lover, then you’ll want to stop by a few of Fremont’s breweries and beer bars during your trip. It’s one of my favorite things to do in Fremont, Seattle during those lazy summer days.

Fremont Brewing is crowded, but it’s known for having a stunning beer garden. If you’re feeling something more low-key, Aslan Brewing and Outlander Brewery and Pub are great options. Aslan is on the intimate side and serves rich craft beers, while Outlander is tiny and known for its foreign brews.

Want a truly local gem? Head to Brouwer’s Cafe. It’s a huge square building covered in corrugated metal, no windows at street level, and a tiny door given it’s size. But inside you’ll find a two-story atrium where you can get some of the best beer in the world. There are a ton of local beers on tap, but they also have rare brews that would impress even the biggest beer snob.

beer from one of the best beer bars, one of the top things to do in Fremont, Seattle

Go on a distillery tour

website | 132 N Canal St (get directions) | best for: spirit tasting and delicious small plates

Whether you’re a cocktail lover or can’t get enough of straight whiskey, you’re going to appreciate a distillery tour. Fremont Mischief offers one of the best tours around and is one of the top things to do in Fremont, Seattle by a mile. You’ll learn about the barrel and bottling process and even get to try a few craft cocktails and Pacific Northwest small plates along the way.

The tasting room experience lets you try four whiskeys and four clear spirits which is awesome. And your expert guide will talk you through the aging process and tasting notes of each pour. The tasting room is open Wednesday to Sunday between 11 am and 6 pm. So, don’t miss your shot (literally!). It’s also right by Theo Chocolate which makes it easy to kill two birds with one stone.

Do a coffee crawl

It’s no secret that Seattle is known for its coffee. If you want to stay away from the Reserve Roastery or the Original Starbucks, try the independent roasteries in this part of town.

Milstead & Co is unbeatable when it comes to atmosphere and taste. The ambiance is minimalist and the baristas serve the smoothest coffee. If you’re looking for other options, Lighthouse Roasters and Caffe Ladro are all reliable picks.

See live music

Catching live music is one of the top things to do in Fremont, Seattle. I’ve spent tons of time in The Showbox and Neumos around Capitol Hill over the years, but Fremont has a cool vibe and is ideal for up-and-coming gig musicians. Fremont Abbey Arts Center is a cozy spot with top-notch acoustics, while spots like High Dive are ideal for late-night acts and great drinks. Fancy a full-blown meal while you rock out? You can’t beat Red Star Taco Bar for Mexican food or Shawn O’Donnell’s for pub grub while you enjoy traditional Irish music.

If you want to hear something different every weekend, Nectar Lounge hosts everything from tribute bands to local artists and well-known groups. As the drinks at these venues can be pricey, you’ll probably want to pre-drink!

Try your hand at skating

website | 3500 Stone Way N (get directions) | best for: active travelers looking to blow off steam

I’m not the most coordinated person in the world, but I think it’s so cool that the 6,900 square-foot All Together Skatepark is hidden underneath Evo. It’s suitable for first-timers thanks to classes, camps, and private lessons. Sure, there’ll be the odd wannabe pro skating around, but the ledges, rails, and stairs are great for trying tricks without completely wrecking yourself.

Take a cooking class

To slow things down and boost your skillset, why not take a cooking class? There are tons of great options, but I have a soft spot for Book Larder on Fremont Avenue. It’s a community bookstore dedicated to selling cookbooks and they run regular cooking classes in the morning and evening.

Don’t have time for a cooking class? Book Larder is a great stop for cookbook lovers if only to browse their shelves!