Seattle Joins Jersey City, Boston, Washington D.C., and Newark as the Most Walkable Destinations in 2025

Published on December 10, 2025

Seattle has officially joined Jersey City, Boston, Washington D.C., and Newark as one of the most walkable destinations in the United States for 2025. This recognition highlights the city’s commitment to pedestrian-friendly design, which makes exploring Seattle on foot not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. With its high Walkability Score, Seattle offers an accessible urban environment where key attractions, from the Space Needle to Pike Place Market, are just a short stroll away. The city’s walkable neighborhoods, scenic routes, and seamless integration of green spaces have earned it a spot alongside other renowned cities for walking, like Boston and Washington D.C. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Seattle’s walkability ensures a delightful and hassle-free experience for anyone looking to explore this Pacific Northwest gem without the need for a car.

FitFlop, the popular footwear brand, used an index to evaluate cities based on their walkability for both locals and visitors. Walkability is a major concern for city dwellers, but it’s becoming increasingly important for travelers as well. Websites like Walk Score have made it easier to see which cities are best for walking, ranking them based on proximity to essential services and attractions. What’s surprising is that even a city with top-notch public transportation, such as Washington, D.C., may not necessarily top these walkability rankings.

In recent years, there’s been a growing shift in travel attitudes. Many Americans are now seeking vacation experiences that allow them to embrace a slower, more leisurely pace, much like the walking culture found in Europe. According to recent data from FitFlop, there’s been a 29% increase in Google searches for “walking vacation,” indicating a growing trend for vacationers to embrace walking as part of their travel experience. FitFlop’s walkability index measures factors such as the proximity of attractions and the city’s layout, and the results have led to a top five list dominated by cities in the Northeast — Jersey City, Boston, Washington, D.C., and Newark. Seattle, however, stands out as the only West Coast city in the top five, with an impressive Walkability Score of 90, offering travelers the perfect opportunity to explore on foot.

Why Seattle is a Walkable Haven
Seattle, also known as the Emerald City, offers an ideal combination of outdoor beauty and vibrant urban life. Its scenic waterfront, surrounded by the majestic Mount Rainier, makes it a city that begs to be explored on foot. Unlike other major U.S. cities, Seattle has been designed with pedestrians in mind, making it easy to visit key attractions without relying on a car. After arriving at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, you can hop on a quick 45-minute tram ride into the city center, where the adventure begins.

A central location, such as a stay at Hotel Max, puts you within walking distance of several major attractions, allowing you to cover a variety of must-see spots without needing a car. Within just a 3.2-mile radius, you can easily visit a number of iconic Seattle landmarks, all at a leisurely pace.

Begin your walk by heading to the Space Needle, one of Seattle’s most famous landmarks. Just a 20-minute walk from the hotel, this towering structure offers stunning views of the city and surrounding areas. After taking in the panoramic sights, take a quick 4-minute stroll to the Pacific Science Center, where visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits and educational displays. If you’re feeling adventurous, continue your walk to the Olympic Sculpture Park, just a 7-minute detour from the Science Center. This waterfront park features incredible sculptures and scenic views, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.

From the Olympic Sculpture Park, continue along the waterfront for 15 minutes, and you’ll arrive at Pike Place Market. Known as the “Soul of Seattle,” Pike Place is a bustling, vibrant market where you can enjoy fresh seafood, artisanal goods, and local produce. After spending time at the market, you can easily walk to the Seattle Aquarium and the Seattle Art Museum in just 15 minutes, both offering unique cultural experiences.

To round off your day, take a short 10-minute walk to Beneath the Streets, an underground tour that unveils the hidden history of Seattle. This fascinating attraction offers a glimpse into the city’s past, from its early days to the present. With all these amazing attractions within walking distance, it’s possible to cover a lot of ground in just over an hour of walking, making Seattle a wonderfully efficient and enjoyable city to explore on foot.

Seattle joins Jersey City, Boston, Washington D.C., and Newark as one of the most walkable destinations in 2025, thanks to its pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods, scenic routes, and easy access to top attractions.

Seattle’s compact layout, walkable neighborhoods, and variety of attractions make it a prime destination for those who want to experience the city without relying on a car. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, the ease of getting around on foot allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and natural beauty, making for an unforgettable trip.