The small town of Edmonds is ripe for exploring, thanks to its prime location along Puget Sound. Just 20 miles north of Seattle, it’s a great little community, which makes for a fantastic day or weekend trip from Seattle and a welcome respite from the bustle of the Emerald City.
Edmonds is surrounded by the natural wonders of the PNW, with forests to the east and amazing views of the Olympic Mountain range to the west. It has plenty of beachside attractions, as well as great hikes in the surrounding areas. It’s one of the best small towns near Seattle.
I live about 20 minutes away from Edmonds and have been here many times. It’s the perfect Seattle suburb that is close enough for a getaway, yet far away enough to escape the fabulous chaos that Seattle can be.
With quaint local shops and restaurants, downtown Edmonds is a really nice way to spend an afternoon. The shops are fun, with unusual gifts and goodies. Main Street and Fifth Avenue holds antique stores, jewelers, clothing boutiques, art galleries, and more. Here is just a taste of what you’ll find (all are locally owned and operated).
Beyond its waterfront parks, downtown shops, and hiking trails, Edmonds has several experiences you will not find in every small town near Seattle. From diving beneath Puget Sound to exploring Northwest art, these are some of the most unique things to do in Edmonds.
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Explore Edmonds Underwater Park
You may see divers disappearing beneath the water at Brackett’s Landing North, and no, they have not accidentally fallen off the ferry.
Edmonds Underwater Park is a marine sanctuary and designated scuba-diving area beside the ferry terminal. Beneath the surface, divers can follow underwater trails past sunken structures and habitats filled with marine life.
You do not need to be a diver to enjoy the setting. Brackett’s Landing is also a lovely place to walk, watch the ferries, look for wildlife, and take in views across Puget Sound toward the Olympic Mountains.
Keep in mind that watercraft, including paddleboards and kayaks, are not permitted inside the dive park because of diver safety.
Look for Birds at Edmonds Marsh
Edmonds Marsh feels surprisingly wild considering how close it is to the waterfront, marina, restaurants, and downtown streets.
This rare urban estuary contains both fresh- and saltwater vegetation and provides habitat for dozens of bird species throughout the year. Follow the interpretive walkway and boardwalk through the marsh while keeping an eye out for herons, ducks, hawks, shorebirds, and other local wildlife.
The walk is short and relatively easy, making it a pleasant addition to a waterfront afternoon. Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens if birdwatching is part of your plan.
Discover Northwest Artists at Cascadia Art Museum
Cascadia Art Museum is one of Edmonds’ most interesting cultural attractions. Instead of focusing on nationally famous artists you may have already seen elsewhere, the museum highlights art and design from the Pacific Northwest, particularly work created between the late 1800s and the 1970s.
Its rotating exhibitions frequently bring attention to regional artists whose contributions were overlooked in traditional art history, including women and minority artists.
The museum is compact enough to enjoy without committing an entire day, so it works well between a waterfront walk and lunch or dinner. Check the current exhibition schedule and opening hours before visiting.
Follow the Public Art Around Downtown
Edmonds was Washington’s first Certified Creative District, and art appears throughout the downtown area in galleries, businesses, parks, plazas, and public spaces.
As you walk around town, look for sculptures, murals, decorative benches, installations, and rotating artwork. The public art makes downtown Edmonds especially fun to explore on foot because you are likely to notice something new around nearly every corner.
For a more organized experience, visit during Art Walk Edmonds. On the third Thursday of each month, participating galleries, shops, restaurants, and other businesses host art displays and special events during the evening.
Ride the Ferry to Kingston Without Bringing a Car
You do not have to plan a full Olympic Peninsula road trip to enjoy the Edmonds–Kingston ferry. Walking aboard makes for a wonderfully simple Puget Sound excursion.
Spend some time on the outdoor deck watching Edmonds recede behind you while the Olympic Mountains come into view. After arriving in Kingston, walk around the small waterfront area, grab lunch or a treat, and then return to Edmonds later in the day.
The ferry is transportation rather than a sightseeing cruise, but the scenery can be every bit as memorable. Check the sailing schedule before leaving, especially during busy summer weekends.
Visit the Edmonds Museum Summer Market
When you visit on a Saturday during the market season, add the Edmonds Museum Summer Market to your itinerary.
The downtown market brings together local farmers, food producers, artists, craftspeople, and other vendors. It is a good place to pick up picnic supplies, shop for locally made gifts, or simply experience Edmonds at its liveliest.
Because market dates and hours can change from year to year, confirm the current schedule before planning your trip.
Sample Washington Wines at Arista Wine Cellars
Wine lovers should make time for a stop at Arista Wine Cellars, a family-owned wine shop that has been part of the Edmonds community since 1997.
The shop carries an extensive selection of Washington wines, along with bottles from more than a dozen countries. You will find everything from approachable everyday wines to harder-to-find labels and collectible bottles. The knowledgeable staff can also help you choose a wine for dinner, a special occasion, or a gift without making the experience feel intimidating.
Arista hosts complimentary wine tastings on Saturdays, typically from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. These tastings are a fun way to sample something new before buying a bottle, although it is always wise to confirm the current schedule before visiting.
In addition to wine, the shop sells decanters, stemware, wine tools, and other wine-related gifts. Arista also offers a monthly wine club for visitors who want to continue discovering new bottles after their Edmonds trip.
Best for: Wine lovers, couples, gift shopping, and rainy-day visits
Good to know: Saturday tastings are popular, so expect the shop to be livelier in the afternoon
Location: 320 Fifth Avenue South in downtown Edmonds
Watch the Sunset from Edmonds Fishing Pier
Few activities are more classically Pacific Northwest than standing beside Puget Sound as the sun sinks behind the Olympic Mountains.
The Edmonds Fishing Pier offers an unobstructed place to watch the changing light, passing boats, seabirds, and ferries. On a clear evening, the mountains across the water create a particularly dramatic backdrop.
Bring an extra layer even during summer. Once the sun begins to set, the breeze coming off the water can make the pier feel considerably cooler than downtown.
Where to Eat in Edmonds
Edmonds has developed an impressive dining scene for a relatively small city. You will find waterfront seafood, sourdough pizza, neighborhood pubs, cocktails, and several restaurants within walking distance of downtown.
Here are a few good places to begin.
Niles Peacock Kitchen & Bar
For pizza and cocktails near the Edmonds waterfront, head to Niles Peacock Kitchen & Bar.
The restaurant makes its pizza crust with a long-running sourdough starter and offers both New York-style and Detroit-style pies. The menu includes familiar combinations alongside more creative options featuring ingredients such as roasted dates, gorgonzola, prosciutto, and balsamic glaze.
Niles Peacock himself is a well-known, trained chef with a warm heart and a larger-than-life personality.
He has created a wonderful atmosphere in his restaurant, known for its craft cocktails, making it a fun choice for a relaxed dinner or an evening out. Its waterfront location is convenient after visiting Cascadia Art Museum, Edmonds Marsh, or the fishing pier.
The place can become busy, particularly on weekends, so check current hours and reservation options before arriving.
Check out my cocktail during my last visit there.
Rory’s of Edmonds
Rory’s of Edmonds is a casual neighborhood bar and grill that nearly always feels lively. It serves satisfying pub food alongside wine, craft beer, and strong cocktails.
This is a good choice when you want burgers, sandwiches, and an informal atmosphere rather than a quiet or elaborate meal. Sports are often playing on the televisions, and the restaurant tends to attract a mixture of locals and visitors.
Anthony’s HomePort Edmonds
Anthony’s HomePort sits beside the marina and specializes in seafood accompanied by views of Puget Sound.
The menu emphasizes Northwest ingredients, with seafood dishes that can be paired with regional wines and local beer. Its setting makes it particularly appealing for a celebratory dinner, date night, or sunset meal.
Request a table with a view when possible, although waterfront tables are naturally the most popular.
Demetris Woodstone Taverna
Demetris Woodstone Taverna combines a waterfront location with shareable plates, cocktails, and an energetic atmosphere.
The Mediterranean-inspired menu makes this a good place to order several dishes for the table rather than choosing a single entrée. It works especially well for couples or groups of friends who want a social dinner near the water.
Make a Meal Part of Your Edmonds Itinerary
For an easy day in Edmonds, have lunch downtown after shopping, spend the afternoon near the waterfront, and then return for pizza, seafood, or cocktails in the evening.
During sunny weekends and special events, popular restaurants may have a wait. Make reservations when available or plan to dine slightly earlier than the usual dinner rush.
Where to Stay in Edmonds
Although Edmonds is an easy day trip from Seattle, staying overnight gives you time to experience the waterfront at sunset, enjoy dinner without rushing, and explore downtown the following morning.
Edmonds has a relatively small lodging selection, so it is worth reserving early if you are visiting during summer, a festival weekend, or another popular local event.
Best Western Plus Edmonds Harbor Inn
Best Western Plus Edmonds Harbor Inn is the most convenient traditional hotel for visitors who want to explore central Edmonds.
Its location near the marina and downtown makes it possible to reach the waterfront, restaurants, Cascadia Art Museum, Edmonds Marsh, and many local shops without spending your entire visit in the car. The hotel offers guest rooms, complimentary breakfast, and free Wi-Fi.
This is my top practical recommendation for a first visit because the location allows you to enjoy Edmonds as a walkable waterfront destination.
Best for: First-time visitors, couples, ferry travelers, and weekend trips
Why stay here: Convenient access to downtown and the waterfront
Good to know: Ask about room location if you are sensitive to traffic or railway noise
Check rates and availability at Best Western Plus Edmonds Harbor Inn
Vacation Rentals in Edmonds
A vacation rental may be a better fit when you want more space, a kitchen, laundry facilities, or a residential neighborhood experience.
Look for rentals near downtown Edmonds, the Bowl, or the waterfront if walkability is important. Properties farther inland may offer more space or lower prices, but you will probably need to drive to the main attractions.
Always check the map carefully before booking. Some properties advertised as being in the Edmonds area may be several miles from downtown.
Best for: Families, friends traveling together, and longer stays
Why stay here: Additional space and home-style amenities
Good to know: Prioritize location if you want to walk to restaurants and the waterfront
Browse vacation rentals in Edmonds.
Is Edmonds Worth an Overnight Stay?
Edmonds is certainly manageable as a day trip, but an overnight stay creates a more relaxed experience.
Stay overnight if you want to watch the sunset from the fishing pier, have dinner and cocktails near the waterfront, visit the Saturday market, or catch an early ferry to Kingston the following morning. A one-night stay is usually enough for a first visit, although two nights would allow time for hiking, beachcombing, shopping, and a ferry excursion.
With its walkable downtown, mountain views, independent restaurants, beaches, art, and easy access from Seattle, Edmonds makes an inviting Pacific Northwest weekend getaway without requiring a long drive.
On nice days, it is worth the few dollars to take the ferry across Puget Sound to Kingston. Ferries are scheduled roughly every 40 minutes and it’s a great way to see some magnificent scenery. Once you disembark at Kingston, you’ll be right on Main Street, with some great shops and eateries.
Hiking in Edmonds
Meadowdale Beach Park has beach access within its 108 acres of natural beauty. Forest hikes and nature trails await you, with places to picnic along the way. Then there is Southwest County Olympic View Park, the largest in town, at 120 acres. Here you’ll find pristine woodlands, ravines, and wetlands. This is a great place to hike, with wonderful views.
This article is also featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Edmonds.