Sometimes, there is a giant orb in the sky that makes people in Seattle want to go outside. That being said, break out the shades for the best bars and outdoor space in Seattle.
Sitting pretty atop the Thompson Seattle, The Nest offers panoramic views of Puget Sound, expertly crafted cocktails, and a scene that shifts from chill to electric as the sun sets. With its recent revamp, the rooftop is louder, livelier, and ready for summer — starting with the Summer Solstice Party on June 28. Arrive early, stay late, and soak up the skyline.
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Photo by Elsom Cellars
When the sun is shining in Seattle Elsom Cellar's patio is the perfect spot to sip on a glass of wine and enjoy some snacks. Their tasting room is open Saturday and Sunday 1-5pm with Thursday hours coming soon!
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Photo by Matt McDonald
We recently enjoyed the outdoor area of Reuben's Brews Taproom in Ballard. We brought along the pup and enjoyed a couple of refreshing beers at this local taproom.
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In addition to having a beautiful interior bar, Westward's patio skirts right up to the edge of Lake Union. The Adirondack chairs are moveable and low-key, so don't worry about grabbing chairs to circle around the fire or bring right up to the edge of the deck.
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Nestled on Melrose Ave, take advantage of a First Hill rooftop view with fantastic, award-winning food from chef Tamara Murphy. Terra Plata is THE summer spot with an almost rotating view of the Capitol Hill neighborhood.
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Photo courtesy of Marination Mai Kai's Facebook
Marination Mai Kai in West Seattle has the most breathtaking view of the skyline and a plethora of delicious food items.
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Photo courtesy of Little Water Catina's Facebook
Little Water's patio overlooks the Northeast corner of Lake Union. The Seattle Times says Little Water Cantina offers picture-perfect food in a picturesque setting and we have to agree.
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Photo Courtesy of Jake Hanson
Magnuson Brewery is a family-friendly restaurant on the northern shoreline of Magnuson Park. It offers hand-crafted food and 16 beers on tap. The restaurant has a large outdoor deck with multiple levels that overlook Lake Washington.
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Look at all that sky! Who wouldn’t want to kick back with a beer out here? Not to mention, King’s Hardware has a host of arcade games, $9 pitchers during happy hour, and more taxidermy animals than your average Ballard hunting lodge.
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The beer garden at this Fremont staple is always sunny, and it’s easy to see why Fremont Brewery is a popular choice for spring and summer drinking festivities. Grab a bowl of pretzels to go with your flight and take advantage of the brewery prices.
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You won't want to miss Ivar's happy hour with $2 oyster/shrimp shooters! The terrace has enough tables to seat you and all of your wine-loving friends and panoramic views of the city.
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Once you’ve gotten inside T-Mobile Park, you’ll likely want a beer with those CrackerJacks. Get to the game early enough to score one of the best-standing spots in the park.
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We recommend setting up a reservation for this date-night favorite in Wallingford. Even after the sun sets, you can warm up by the stone fire pit in the heart of the patio and enjoy some excellent food right here at Joule.
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Photo by Austin Santiago
Before you know it, Alki Beach will be crowded with hundreds of people with the same idea you had. We picked this El Chupacabra spot for its proximity to the beach and killer views of the water. Get outside and enjoy El Chupacabra’s front porch while spring hasn’t quite sprung and enjoy some delicious food.
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Should you find yourself in need of not only a delicious and cheap burger but of shade as well, Loretta's Northwestern is the place to go. There's a silver-clad Airstream that you can lounge in to avoid the sun, but there's plenty of seating outside, including a fireplace for the cooler nights.
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Photo by Matt McDonald
Sugar Hill is a vinyl-fueled eatery/bar for craft cocktails, Thai street food & late-night DJs plus a great outdoor seating area along Pine St.
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Mbar is a great rooftop bar and restaurant with stunning views of Lake Union and Seattle. It's definitely worth the visit.
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The Cloud Room is tucked away above 11th and Pike, with an expansive west-facing sun deck, cozy conversational nooks, and an in-house library, our bar is the perfect location for an intimate night of conversation or celebration.
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Photo by Matt McDonald
Open for late nights during the week, Lost Lake is a go-to spot for drinks and grub on the hill. The parklet/patio outside of Lost Lake is a great spot to talk with friends, enjoy libations, and partake in some people-watching.
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Photo by Matt McDonald
Captain Blacks, the neighborhood bar in Capitol Hill, has two decks with space heaters to make your early spring or late fall drinking hour even more comfortable. In the summer, this place gets packed, but it is oh-so worth it!
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Photo by Matt McDonald
When the sunshine comes out, the circular drive in the Hotel Sorrento courtyard transforms into a patio for your enjoyment. The tables and orange umbrellas offer a large area for people to sit, stand, and enjoy a beverage and some food. We love the vibes this kinda European-style patio gives and the availability to dine at Stella. If you are looking for an outdoor bar/patio on First Hill, this is our go-to spot.
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Photo Courtesy of Frolik Kitchen + Cocktails Facebook
This downtown rooftop spot is perfect for a post-work cocktail and great happy hour specials. If you want one of the best views of the city, look no further than Frolik!
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Did we miss a spot? Something new open up? Feel free to contact us at [email protected] and we will add it to the list.
*Updated MAY 12 2025
