Quick verdict
Peak season: Jun–Sep. Shoulder: May, Oct. Low: Jan–Apr, Nov–Dec.
Seattle has a temperate oceanic climate — mild year-round with a pronounced wet season from October through April.
What's the weather like in Seattle by month?
Each month classified as peak (best balance of weather and value), shoulder (a step in either direction), or low season.
Why visit Seattle during Jun–Sep?
The glorious secret of Seattle — warm, sunny, and remarkably dry. Low humidity, long daylight hours (sunset near 10pm in June), and countless outdoor festivals.
Shoulder season (May, Oct) trades a small weather concession for noticeably smaller crowds and softer prices — often the sweet spot for travelers who want flexibility.
Low season (Jan–Apr, Nov–Dec) is when prices fall hardest. Expect weather extremes (heat, humidity, cold, or rain depending on the destination) and reduced hours at some seasonal businesses, but the trade-off can be worth it if budget or solitude matters more than perfect conditions.
What festivals and events happen in Seattle?
- SeafairJuly - August
A month of Seattle summer celebration with hydroplane races, the Blue Angels airshow over Lake Washington, parades, and a torchlight run through downtown.
- BumbershootEarly September
A three-day music and arts festival at Seattle Center over Labor Day weekend. Headliners across rock, pop, hip-hop, and indie on multiple stages.
- Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF)May
One of the largest and longest film festivals in North America — 25 days, 400+ films from 80+ countries at theaters across the city.
- Bite of SeattleJuly
Three-day food festival at Seattle Center featuring 60+ local restaurants, food trucks, breweries, and live music. Free admission.
Cooler & warmer in North America this June
If Seattle's June weather isn't your match, here are the closest North America alternatives at different temperatures. Distances are from Seattle.
Cooler
See the full ranked list: All North America destinations in June →
Frequently asked
When is the best time to visit Seattle?
The best time to visit Seattle is Jun–Sep. Seattle has a temperate oceanic climate — mild year-round with a pronounced wet season from October through April. These months balance comfortable weather, manageable crowds, and prices that haven't yet hit peak-season highs.
When is the cheapest time to visit Seattle?
Low-season months in Seattle run Jan–Apr, Nov–Dec. Flights and hotels typically run 20-40% cheaper than peak. The trade-off is weather (which is why these months are off-peak) and some businesses operating shorter hours, especially in smaller seasonal destinations.
What's the weather like in Seattle year-round?
Summer averages around 22°C (72°F) and winter averages around 5°C (41°F) in Seattle. Seattle has a temperate oceanic climate — mild year-round with a pronounced wet season from October through April. Summers are dry, sunny, and cool. The famous rain is usually a fine drizzle ("Seattle mist") rather than downpours. Snow at sea level is rare.
What festivals or events are happening in Seattle?
Notable events in Seattle: Seafair (July - August); Bumbershoot (Early September); Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) (May). A month of Seattle summer celebration with hydroplane races, the Blue Angels airshow over Lake Washington, parades, and a torchlight run through downtown.
How many days do I need in Seattle?
Most travelers spend 3-5 days in Seattle, which covers the main neighborhoods, top attractions, and a half-day day trip. Add a day if you're visiting during peak season when crowds slow you down, or if you're combining Seattle with nearby destinations.
More peak-season picks for Seattle's best months
See every destination at its peak in each of Seattle's best months.
Full guide
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