Exploring Seattle & South Lake Union
Welcome to Summer@Cornish! You’re in for an exciting four weeks of arts, creativity, and making new friends. When you’re not working on your artwork or performing, Seattle is packed with fun places to explore, delicious food to try, and plenty of cool spots to hang out. Here’s your guide to the best eats, parks, and more in Seattle—perfect for students looking to make the most of their time in Seattle!
Food markets, trucks and more you’ll love!
For the perfect Seattle coffee shop, Monorail Coffee on is a go-to for grabbing the true Seattle coffee half a block from campus! Try their pastries, smoothies, or a hot chocolate if coffee isn’t your thing.
Seattle is home to some of the best food trucks in the country! Right next to the Cornish campus are an ever changing army of food trucks daily and you can find any and all trucks around the city by the map and schedule where they will appear!
In the mood for burgers? Shake Shack in SLU serves up amazing burgers, fries, and shakes. It’s a classic hangout for a quick and tasty bite, perfect for refueling after a day of classes.
Just a short walk from Cornish, Asean is an Asian market offering a variety of Asian street food type restaurants all located indoors in one location. Crab fried rice, mochi and flying noodles!
South Lake Union Saturday Market
Every Saturday, Seattle is full of markets around each neighborhood. South Lake Union, a block from the Cornish campus, has a large market with music, food trucks, events and artists!
One of the most unique ice cream shops in the country! Try the favorite Strawberry Honey Balsamic Black Pepper ice cream, Salty Doughnut Guava, Pear and Blue cheese, or Panther Coffee Chocolate… you think you won't like them and then you do!
Not even a block from the Cornish campus, H-District is a combination of a Vietnamese bakery, food windows and a grocery store for snacks, lunch or exploring! A daily lunch spot for anyone who loves to explore new food!
Outdoor Fun and Parks
Seattle’s new waterfront is the city’s newest water and ferry viewpoint spot, where you can stroll right along the Puget Sound with stunning views of the water and the skyline. It’s got everything: a huge boardwalk, cool public art, fun places to eat, and spots to just kick back and watch ferries go by. Perfect for a sunset walk, people-watching, or snapping pics, the waterfront is where city vibes meet nature in the heart of Seattle.
Golden Gardens State Park (Beach!!)
Golden Gardens in Seattle is the ultimate beach spot, with amazing views of the Puget Sound, sandy beaches, and epic sunsets over the Olympic Mountains. It's perfect for a beach day with friends, whether you’re into beach volleyball, picnicking, or just relaxing by the water.
Lake Union Park is right by the water, perfect for picnics or just relaxing in the sun. You can also walk along the dock, rent kayaks, or even watch float planes take off!
Seattle’s oldest park, Denny Park, is a great spot for stretching your legs. It’s peaceful, with lots of trees and grassy areas where you can hang out, play games, or sketch.
While technically just outside SLU, Seattle Center is home to iconic spots like the Space Needle, the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), and the International Fountain. Perfect for spending an afternoon exploring.
The Seattle Streetcar is a fun way to see the neighborhood. It runs from SLU to Capitol Hill, and it’s easy to hop on and off while exploring local shops, cafes, and galleries.
Seattle's Waterfall Garden Park is a hidden gem in the city—a little oasis where you can escape the hustle and just vibe to the sound of a 22-foot waterfall. Tucked away in the Pioneer Square area, it’s the perfect place to chill with friends, grab a coffee.
Cultural Spots and Cool Walks
The Frye Art Museum in Seattle is a cool spot where you can check out both classic and edgy new art—for free! It was started by a couple who wanted everyone to experience art, so they opened this place packed with everything from dramatic paintings to modern, mind-bending installations.
One of the most iconic Seattle attractions, filled with food, vendors, crafts and locals. Experience the most traveled and famous market in Seattle with a 15 minute walk from campus! Go watch them throw a fish and see the Gum Wall!
The Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)
Located right in Lake Union Park, MOHAI is a great place to dive into Seattle’s past, from its technology boom to the city’s vibrant maritime history. Plus, students get discounted entry!
If you’re into hands-on experiences, the Center for Wooden Boats lets you learn about traditional boat building and even go for a sail on Lake Union. It’s a fun mix of history and adventure.
South Lake Union Discovery Center
For those interested in architecture and city planning, the South Lake Union Discovery Center showcases how the area transformed into the vibrant, tech-filled community it is today.
While this is over near Seattle Center, it’s an absolute must for art lovers. The colorful glass sculptures of artist Dale Chihuly will blow your mind and might just inspire your next project.
If you want to stay local, explore the outdoor murals and public art installations scattered around the neighborhood. It’s an inspiring way to see how art can change and beautify public spaces.
Wrap-Up
South Lake Union is packed with fun, culture, and tasty treats—all within walking distance of Cornish College. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite, exploring Seattle’s art scene, or chilling by the lake, there’s always something to do. Make sure to take breaks from your studies and enjoy the energy of the city around you!
