18 Things To Do In Everett That Will Change Your Life Forever - Karta.com

18 Things To Do In Everett That Will Change Your Life Forever

Trip Ideas Mar 25, 2025

Everett, WA sits about 25 miles north of Seattle, where Port Gardner Bay meets the Snohomish River. This vibrant city—once called the “City of Smokestacks”—began as home to the Snohomish people before loggers and East Coast investors plotted its future in the 1890s. Incorporated in 1893 and named for Everett Colby, it soon became a hub for lumber and shipping. By the 1920s, Everett’s mills and port made it a regional powerhouse, though the city later played center stage in historical moments like the tragic Everett Massacre of 1916.

Everett’s transformation continued throughout the 20th century. Boeing’s aircraft factory at Paine Field in 1967 shifted the city toward aerospace, and since early 2019, Paine Field has offered passenger flights—connecting Everett to destinations across the West Coast. Today, this county seat is home to roughly 111,000 people, making it Washington’s seventh-largest city.

Visitors are drawn here by a blend of industrial heritage and regional charm. Everett’s historic downtown brims with art galleries, breweries, boutique shops, and the distinctive Funko Pop headquarters. For travelers planning a visit, exploring the many things to do in Everett, WA means uncovering waterfront trails, Jetty Island’s sandy shores, and Naval Station Everett. It’s a multifaceted escape on Puget Sound—lively, storied, and undeniably local.

1. Everett Waterfront at Marina Village

📍 Location: 1720 W Marine View Dr, Everett, WA 98201

🎯 Fun Fact:

Everett's working waterfront is also home to over 2,300 slips, making it the largest public marina on the West Coast—and it still hosts classic fish markets, cafes, and seasonal events like Sail-In Cinema (movies on the water!).

Everett Waterfront at Marina Village anchors the city’s shoreline with a dynamic mix of history, recreation, and everyday charm. Stretching along Port Gardner Bay, the Port of Everett manages over 3,000 acres of waterfront property, with more than half open for public use. A nearly four-mile trail weaves along the marina, passing picnic shelters, plazas, and Boxcar Park—a favorite venue for sail-in movies, live music, art festivals, and summer splash fountains.

Marina Village, developed in the 1980s, is home to restaurants, shops, and offices, along with more than 2,300 boat slips, making it the largest public marina on the West Coast. Boaters are welcomed with full-service amenities and easy access to nearby Fisherman’s Harbor and local hotels. Onshore, visitors kayak, paddleboard, fish off Jetty Landing, or board the seasonal ferry to Jetty Island’s sandy beaches.

Interpretive signs along the Millwright Loop trace Everett’s maritime past—once driven by mills, boatbuilding, and commercial fishing. Today, the waterfront still hums with life. From Food Truck Fridays to Music at the Marina, it’s a place where families picnic, cyclists glide, and sea breezes carry the sounds of community.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Hours: Open daily
  • Parking: Free and paid lots
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible paths, shops, and restrooms

2. Jetty Island Ferry & Beach Escape

📍 Departure: 10th Street Boat Launch, 10th St & W Marine View Dr

🎯 Fun Fact:

Jetty Island is a man-made sandy island created from dredged river material in the 1890s—but now it’s a wild refuge with warm, shallow swimming, bald eagles, and driftwood forts.

For locals, Jetty Island is a summer tradition. For visitors, it’s one of those places that makes you stop and say—wait, there’s a beach like this in Everett?

Just a short ferry ride from the marina, Jetty Island is a two-mile stretch of sandy shoreline surrounded by shallow warm waters and open sky. No cars, no buildings—just wind, sand, water, and a whole lot of space to spread out. It's easily one of the most fun things to do in Everett, especially if you’re visiting in the warmer months.

Jetty Island Ferry Taking Passengers Accross for the day | Flickr

The Jetty Island Ferry runs seasonally, typically from late June through early September. It’s a quick ride, just a few minutes across the channel, but it feels like you're slipping away from the city entirely. Families bring beach chairs and coolers. Kiteboarders ride the wind. Kids dig in the sand. And the sunsets? Ridiculous—in the best way.

There's no food or shops on the island, so pack what you need before hopping on the ferry. But that’s part of the charm. It’s quiet, it’s natural, and it’s different from most beach spots you’ll find near a city. Not overdeveloped—just peaceful and easy.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Seasonal Ferry: July–Labor Day
  • Fee: $3 (free for kids under 2)
  • Accessibility: Not ADA accessible due to beach terrain
  • Tip: Book ferry spots online in advance—they fill fast

3. Imagine Children’s Museum

📍 Location: 1502 Wall St, Everett, WA 98201

🎯 Fun Fact:

Imagine isn’t just play—it’s learning by stealth, with exhibits like a real dental clinic, rooftop garden, airplane cockpit, and STEM lab. Their philosophy? Let kids take the lead.

Imagine Children’s Museum in Everett is a hands-on learning space that invites children to explore, create, and play with purpose. Originally opened in 1993, the museum underwent a major expansion in 2022, now boasting over 60,000 square feet of interactive exhibits across three stories. Designed for children up to age 12, it offers immersive environments that blend education with excitement.

The first floor features the Woodlands Adventure, where kids can climb rope bridges, navigate treehouses, and discover forest-themed play zones. In the Puget Sound ecosystem gallery, children encounter real marine life, sand tables, microscopes, and the bones of an actual gray whale—an engaging dive into the natural sciences. Upstairs, the Worldwide Distribution Center mimics a logistics hub, where children sort packages on conveyors and cranes, learning physics and engineering as they go.

The Tinker Shop lets young builders craft projects with real tools under guidance, while the rooftop playground adds fresh air and fossil-themed exploration to the experience. A small café and gift shop offer refreshments and keepsakes, while family-friendly amenities—accessible restrooms, stroller parking, and sensory-friendly design—ensure comfort for all.

Open Tuesday through Sunday, Imagine Children’s Museum is more than a rainy-day refuge—it’s a space where learning comes to life through laughter, movement, and endless curiosity.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Hours: Tues–Sun, 9am–4pm
  • Admission: $17 adults/kids; babies under 12 months free
  • Parking: Paid street and nearby lots
  • Accessibility: Fully ADA compliant

4. Get a Little Artsy at Schack Art Center

📍 Location: 2921 Hoyt Ave, Everett, WA 98201

🎯 Fun Fact:

Named for benefactors John and Idamae Schack, this glassblowing and visual arts center lets you watch artists shape molten glass up close. And yes—there are classes for beginners too.

Schack Art Center is the creative heart of Everett’s arts district, located along Hoyt Avenue. Originally founded in 1974 as the Arts Council of Snohomish County, it reemerged in 2011 as a 19,000-square-foot facility honoring arts patrons John and Idamae Schack. The modern building features two galleries, artist studios, classrooms, and the only public glassblowing hot shop in the region.

File:Everett, WA - Schack Art Center 01.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Visitors can explore rotating exhibitions showcasing Pacific Northwest artists working in a range of media including glass, oil, jewelry, ceramics, printmaking, and textiles. Admission is always free, and the Center’s gallery store features handcrafted pieces by more than 200 local artists. The space is also a community classroom, offering workshops, summer camps, and hands-on instruction in everything from silversmithing and printmaking to basket weaving and painting.

Signature annual events like Schacktoberfest and the H’Arts fundraiser support its mission to make art accessible for all. Beyond its programming, the center also serves as a venue for private events and meetings, extending its reach beyond the traditional gallery model.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Hours: Mon–Sat: 10am–5pm, Sun: 12pm–5pm
  • Admission: Free (some events/classes extra)
  • Parking: Free lot and nearby street parking
  • Accessibility: ADA accessible

5. Catch a Show at Historic Everett Theatre

📍 Location: 2911 Colby Ave, Everett, WA 98201

🎯 Fun Fact:

Built in 1901, it’s one of the oldest operating theaters in Washington. Charlie Chaplin and Lillian Gish once lit up its stage. Now it hosts music, comedy, and indie film fests.

The Historic Everett Theatre is a cultural cornerstone of downtown, offering over a century of performance history. Originally opened in 1901 as the Everett Opera House, it hosted vaudeville stars like Al Jolson and George M. Cohan before a fire in 1923 led to a grand reconstruction. Reopened in 1924, it was renamed the New Everett Theatre and continued its legacy with a new Kimball pipe organ and a lineup of films, plays, and musical performances.

File:Everett, WA - Everett Theatre 02.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

The theatre transitioned into the film era in 1929 under Fox ownership and underwent several updates, including a striking space-age marquee added in 1952. A 1979 triplex conversion and years of decline followed, leading to its closure in 1989. Local preservationists rallied to restore the theater’s former glory, bringing back classic touches like red velvet seating and ornate ceiling details.

Today, the venue seats 846 and serves as Everett’s only remaining historic downtown theater. It hosts an eclectic mix of programming—live concerts, stage productions, indie films, and community events—while preserving the elegant charm of early 20th-century design. The Historic Everett Theatre is not just a building—it’s a living piece of Everett’s artistic and architectural heritage, still vibrant and welcoming generations of new audiences.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Hours: Events only
  • Tickets: $10–$40 depending on show
  • Parking: Street and nearby paid lots
  • Accessibility: Limited ADA seating—reserve in advance

6. Tanks, Planes, and Wow—Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum

📍 Location: 3407 109th St SW, Everett, WA 98204 (Temporarily closed; reopening TBA)

🎯 Fun Fact:

Founded by the late Paul Allen (co-founder of Microsoft), this museum houses fully operational WWII aircraft and tanks—not replicas. They even take flight during summer events.

Built around the impressive collection of late aviation pioneer Paul G. Allen, the Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum in Everett offers a powerful journey through 20th-century military history. Since opening in 2004, the museum has housed meticulously restored aircraft, tanks, and vehicles from World War II to the Cold War era. From P-51 Mustangs and Spitfires in the "Collection of Historical Aircraft" to Sherman tanks and Soviet armor, each machine tells a story of conflict, innovation, and remembrance.

File:Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum (51647888654).jpg - Wikimedia  Commons

Exhibits balance technical detail with human context: pilots and crew are honored alongside the hardware, with multimedia presentations recounting missions and personal sacrifice. Visitors can explore the roar of a restored P-47 engine, stand beside a hulking German Panther tank, or learn about the strategic impact of aerial campaigns. The museum’s restoration hangars are open for behind-the-scenes viewing, allowing guests to see the careful craftsmanship preserving these warbirds and war machines for future generations.

Educational outreach includes school-group programs, flight simulators, and curated lectures that connect past lessons to present-day innovation. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a military buff, or simply curious, the Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum delivers a vivid, hands-on encounter with pivotal moments in global history. It’s a tribute to bravery and engineering that moves both heart and mind.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Status: Temporarily closed (check website)
  • Accessibility: Fully ADA when open

7. Behind-the-Scenes Cool: Museum of Flight Restoration Center

📍 Location: 2909 100th St SW, Everett, WA 98204

🎯 Fun Fact:

This is where aircraft go to be reborn. Volunteers painstakingly restore vintage planes, and you can walk the hangar floor and talk to them as they work.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to bring an old airplane back to life, this place gives you a front-row seat.

The Museum of Flight Restoration Center in Everett embodies the art and science of aircraft preservation. Opened in 2012, this working facility represents the behind-the-scenes world of aerospace conservation. Unlike traditional museums, it welcomes visitors into massive hangars where planes, helicopters, and spacecraft undergo careful restoration—wings are painted, engines tuned, and panels riveted back into place.

Museum of Flight Restoration Center | The museum maintains a… | Flickr

Highlights include multi-year projects like the full reassembly of vintage Boeing prototypes and classic military and civilian aircraft. Docents and restoration experts enthusiastically explain each step, from corrosion repair and fabric patching to wiring, cockpit instrumentation, and historical documentation. Walking through the hangars, you’ll witness everything from metal skins stripped to their bare structure, to gleaming airframes ready for display or even flight.

The facility also serves as an educational space, offering hands-on workshops, tours for students, and volunteer opportunities for skilled enthusiasts. With its roaring tools, aerospace chatter, and flutter of progress, the Restoration Center brings aviation history to life in real time. For anyone fascinated by flight and engineering, it’s a rare chance to go inside the process—and witness the rebirth of aircraft legends destined to soar again.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Hours: Wed–Sat: 9am–4pm
  • Admission: $10 adults, $5 kids
  • Accessibility: ADA accessible

8. Stretch Your Legs at Japanese Gulch Trails

📍 Location: Trailheads near 44th Ave W & SR 526 (Mukilteo side)

🎯 Fun Fact:

Named for Japanese mill workers who settled nearby in the early 1900s, this 140-acre wooded area has lush ferns, old rail beds, and views of Puget Sound—a quiet gem loved by hikers and bikers.

If you’re craving a bit of green space and dirt under your shoes, Japanese Gulch is one of the best spots for Everett outdoor activities. It’s just minutes from the city center, but once you’re on the trails, it feels like you’ve stepped way off the grid.

The trail system winds through thick forests, old-growth trees, and mossy ravines, with just the right mix of peaceful and wild. You’ll hear birds, the crunch of gravel underfoot, maybe the distant rumble of a train—but not much else. It’s quiet in the best way.

There’s something for every pace here—easy loops for a casual stroll or more rugged terrain if you’re in the mood for a little climb. Mountain bikers also love it for the challenging singletrack trails that cut through the woods. The elevation changes are just enough to make your legs burn a little without feeling like a full-on hike.

It’s one of those places locals return to again and again. No frills, no crowds—just nature doing its thing. Bring a water bottle, wear good shoes, and take your time. You might even spot deer slipping through the trees if you’re lucky.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Hours: Sunrise to dusk
  • Fees: Free
  • Parking: Street and lot options
  • Accessibility: Natural terrain—limited access

9. Slow It Down at Spencer Island Park

📍 Location: Trailheads near 44th Ave W & SR 526 (Mukilteo side)

🎯 Fun Fact:

Named for Japanese mill workers who settled nearby in the early 1900s, this 140-acre wooded area has lush ferns, old rail beds, and views of Puget Sound—a quiet gem loved by hikers and bikers.

Spencer Island Park offers a quiet, wild escape just east of Everett, nestled in the Snohomish River estuary. Once used for cattle grazing in the early 1900s, the 412-acre island has since been transformed into one of the region’s most significant wetland restoration sites. Jointly managed by Snohomish County and the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife, it now thrives with native vegetation, estuarine channels, and a rich diversity of bird and animal life.

File:Spencer Beach Park Big Island.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

A one-mile dike trail leads visitors through open grasslands and marshes, making it an ideal spot for walking, photography, and birdwatching. Species like blue herons, osprey, bald eagles, and swans can be spotted year-round, with seasonal migrations adding even more variety. In spring and summer, the sounds of birdsong and the sight of vibrant wildflowers turn the island into a living canvas.

Leashed dogs are welcome on the southern county-managed half, while the northern WDFW side remains reserved for habitat protection and seasonal hunting. A Discover Pass is required for access to the state-managed areas.

Spencer Island Park combines quiet beauty with ecological importance. Its serene trails and expansive wetland views offer a glimpse into the power of thoughtful restoration—and the timeless draw of the natural world.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Hours: Sunrise to dusk
  • Fees: Free
  • Parking: Street and lot options
  • Accessibility: Natural terrain—limited access

10. Escape to the Beach at Howarth Park

📍 Location: 5033 4th St SE, Everett, WA 98205

🎯 Fun Fact:

A reclaimed estuary in the Snohomish River Delta, Spencer Island is a birder’s paradise—herons, eagles, and ducks galore. It's flat, peaceful, and great for slow strolls.

Howarth Park feels like one of those spots you only find if a local tips you off—and honestly, that’s part of the charm. Tucked at the edge of a quiet neighborhood, this beach-meets-forest escape is hands-down one of the best hidden gems in Everett WA.

There’s a trail that winds down through tall evergreens and ferns before opening up to a driftwood-strewn beach along Possession Sound. The view hits you fast—Puget Sound stretching out in front, Olympic Mountains in the distance, ferries cruising by like slow-moving postcards.

Trees 02 at Howarth Park | Santa Rosa, California | Flickr

It’s not a big beach, and that’s exactly why people love it. You can sit on a log, dig your feet into the sand, and just watch the water roll in without crowds or noise. Bring a blanket, bring a book, or bring nothing at all—it’s that kind of place.

There’s also a little off-leash dog area up top if you’ve got a furry friend with you, plus picnic tables and benches where you can post up for a low-key lunch.

It’s quiet, low-profile, and one of those places that makes Everett feel a little more magical the moment you find it.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Hours: Dawn to dusk
  • Fees: Free
  • Accessibility: Gravel/dirt trails; not wheelchair friendly
  • Parking: Small gravel lot

11. Catch a Game at Funko Field with the Everett AquaSox

📍 Location: 3900 Broadway, Everett, WA 98201

🎯 Fun Fact:

Funko Field is named after the Everett-born toy brand, and the AquaSox are a Seattle Mariners affiliate, offering up-close views of future MLB stars.

Funko Field, located at Everett Memorial Stadium, is a local treasure and home to the Everett AquaSox, the High-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. Originally built in 1947, the stadium has been updated over the decades, with its baseball field rebranded as Funko Field in 2019 thanks to a partnership with Everett-based pop culture giant Funko.

The ballpark offers an intimate fan experience with seating for just over 3,600. Families and baseball fans enjoy themed game nights like Funko Fridays, fireworks Saturdays, and giveaways that tie into the collectible brand’s playful energy. The stadium's classic, hand-operated scoreboard and cozy layout create a nostalgic atmosphere, while modern turf ensures games go on rain or shine.

Everett Aquasox - August 2009 | Picture from behind the scre… | Flickr

More than a baseball venue, Funko Field also hosts Everett Community College baseball, the semi-pro Everett Merchants, high school football, and community events. A commemorative plaque near the outfield marks where Ken Griffey Jr. hit his first professional home run in 1987—a moment that adds to the field’s enduring legacy.

With affordable tickets, quirky mascots, and that small-town stadium charm, Funko Field remains a lively hub of sports, community, and summer memories in Everett, all powered by a deep love of the game.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Season: April–September
  • Tickets: ~$10–$20
  • Accessibility: ADA seating and family-friendly amenities

12. Sip Something Local at Everett Breweries

If you want to get a real taste of the city—literally—start with the local taprooms. The Everett breweries scene is small but mighty, with just enough variety to keep your pint glass interesting. No corporate vibes here—just good beer, friendly bartenders, and a little bit of that unpolished charm Everett does so well.

Start at Scuttlebutt Brewing Co., one of the OGs in town. Their waterfront location near the marina is a great place to kick back with a Homeport Blonde Ale or Porter while watching boats cruise by. It’s casual, spacious, and the food menu is solid, too.

Head over to Crucible Brewing – Everett Foundry if you're into bold IPAs and creative small-batch brews. The industrial vibe fits Everett perfectly, and they host trivia nights, live music, and plenty of community events.

At Large Brewing is another local favorite with a cool taproom and standout seasonal beers—try whatever’s on their rotating board, it rarely misses. And if you’re into something a little more old-school, check out Lazy Boy Brewing, a chill spot with classic ales and an unpretentious, locals-welcome feel.

Everett’s beer scene isn’t trying to be trendy—it’s just good, honest craft brewing with personality.

13. Explore American Legion Memorial Park

Legion Park, officially American Legion Memorial Park, anchors Everett’s downtown waterfront with sweeping views of Port Gardner Bay and Whidbey Island. This 4‑acre urban park offers tennis and basketball courts, a playground, picnic shelters, sports fields and restrooms—plus a memorial and gazebo where community events are often held. Interpretive signs tell the story of Hibulb Village, once a thriving Snohomish settlement at the base of the park’s bluff.

Adjacent to the park, Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens unfolds across 2.4 acres. A series of themed plantings—including Japanese maples, rock gardens, fern groves and a white-flower border—invites quiet reflection amid rich green textures. The gardens connect via looping trails to Grand Avenue Park, creating a gentle urban oasis perfect for a morning stroll or family outing.

A short drive away, Angel of the Winds Arena stands as Snohomish County’s premier venue. Opened in 2003 and seating up to 10,000 guests, it hosts everything from Everett Silvertips hockey to concerts, ice shows, conventions and trade fairs. Guests can skate on its NHL‑sized rink, attend big-name sporting events, or enjoy public sessions in the Edward D. Hansen Conference Center.

Legion Park, the arboretum, and Evergreen Gardens together create a green thread through Everett’s core, while Angel of the Winds Arena adds a pulse of culture and community energy just steps away.

14. Angel of the Winds Arena

📍 Location: 2000 Hewitt Ave, Everett, WA 98201

🎯 Fun Fact:

Home of the Everett Silvertips (WHL hockey) and host to concerts, rodeos, wrestling, ice skating, and more. Taylor Swift once opened here on her first tour.

Angel of the Winds Arena brings a bold contrast to Everett’s quiet natural spaces. Located in the heart of downtown, it opened in 2003 as a state-of-the-art multi-use venue and has since become the cultural and entertainment heartbeat of the city. With seating capacity for up to 10,000, the arena hosts a wide array of events—from thrilling Everett Silvertips hockey games to live concerts, comedy shows, rodeos, and national touring acts.

What sets the arena apart is its flexibility. Beyond the main rink and performance area, it houses the Edward D. Hansen Conference Center, which features over 11,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space. This makes it a preferred destination for conventions, expos, and trade fairs. Families and fans also flock here for ice shows and public skating sessions, giving the venue a community feel even in its grand scale.

Its downtown location means you’re never far from dining, shopping, or nearby attractions like the waterfront or Grand Avenue Park. The arena brings national entertainment to a local audience and injects year-round energy into the city’s social calendar. It stands as more than just a place to watch a game—it’s where Everett gathers, celebrates, and stays connected through shared experiences.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Events: Vary year-round
  • Tickets: Varies by event
  • Accessibility: Fully ADA compliant

15. Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens

📍 Location: 2000 Hewitt Ave, Everett, WA 98201

🎯 Fun Fact:

Home of the Everett Silvertips (WHL hockey) and host to concerts, rodeos, wrestling, ice skating, and more. Taylor Swift once opened here on her first tour.

Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens is one of Everett’s most serene treasures—a peaceful retreat tucked alongside Legion Park. Founded in 1963, the arboretum spans 2.4 acres and features themed gardens that change with the seasons, making each visit unique. From the vibrant colors of Japanese maples to the structured calm of a conifer garden and the softness of a fern alley, every path reveals a new textural story.

The space is maintained by volunteers and supported by the nonprofit Evergreen Arboretum Foundation, which has shaped it into both a community classroom and a place for quiet reflection. Informational signs accompany many plantings, turning a casual walk into a light botanical lesson. Art installations from local sculptors punctuate the garden beds, enhancing the natural beauty with creative energy.

Visitors can explore the white-flower border, rock gardens, and native plant areas, or simply sit and enjoy the sound of wind moving through the trees. The arboretum also serves as a connector—its trails link to Grand Avenue Park and overlook the waters of Port Gardner Bay.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Events: Vary year-round
  • Tickets: Varies by event
  • Accessibility: Fully ADA compliant

16. Celebrate Like a Local: Everett Events & Festivals

📍 Location: Various (Waterfront Place, Downtown, Arena)

🎯 Fun Fact:

Signature events include Sorticulture (garden & art fair), Fisherman’s Village Music Fest, and Salty Sea Days—many rooted in Everett’s maritime and maker culture.

There’s always something happening in this city—music, art, food, quirky community gatherings—you name it.

One of the most loved events is Sorticulture, a garden arts festival that takes over downtown every June. It’s part art show, part plant sale, part local hangout—with live music, artisan vendors, and creative landscaping ideas you didn’t know you needed.

20170610-DSC_3503 | Sorticulture, Everett Washington, June 2… | Cindy  Shebley | Flickr

Come July, the Everett 4th of July Parade & Fireworks Show lights up the waterfront with a mix of hometown pride and big sky booms. It’s classic Americana with a Northwest twist—food trucks, live bands, and families lining the streets in lawn chairs.

Sundays are for the Everett Farmers Market, set up right by the marina. You’ll find everything from fresh produce and handmade soaps to local honey and wood-fired pizza. It’s not just shopping—it’s a scene.

And if you’re into live music, the Everett Music Initiative keeps the rhythm going year-round with pop-up concerts, indie bands, and unexpected venues that keep the city’s creative pulse alive.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Seasonal: Most in spring–summer
  • Fees: Mostly free or low-cost
  • Parking: Varies; some free shuttle services offered

17. Dive into Pop Culture at Funko HQ

📍 Location: Various (Waterfront Place, Downtown, Arena)

🎯 Fun Fact:

Signature events include Sorticulture (garden & art fair), Fisherman’s Village Music Fest, and Salty Sea Days—many rooted in Everett’s maritime and maker culture.

Funko HQ is one of the most unexpectedly fun places in town. Located right in downtown Everett, this pop culture playground is part retail store, part photo op, part immersive experience—and totally worth a visit.

The building itself is hard to miss. Massive superhero figures tower above the entrance, and once you step inside, it’s like walking into a life-sized comic book. There are themed sections for Star Wars, Marvel, Disney, Harry Potter, and more—each packed with oversized displays, custom decor, and of course, rows and rows of those iconic Pop! Vinyl figures.

Funko HQ | Funko Headquarters. Everett, Washington. | jpellgen (@1105_jp) |  Flickr

But even if you’re not buying anything, it’s still a blast to walk through. Snap a selfie with a giant Batman, peek into the fantasy forest room, or explore the diorama-like scenes tucked throughout the store. It’s playful, colorful, and weird in all the right ways.

If you’re visiting with kids, it’s an easy win. If you’re a grown-up with a soft spot for nostalgia and collectibles? Even better. Funko HQ isn’t just a store—it’s one of Everett’s most playful attractions.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Seasonal: Most in spring–summer
  • Fees: Mostly free or low-cost
  • Parking: Varies; some free shuttle services offered

18. Day Trip to Mukilteo Lighthouse Park

📍 Location: 609 Front St, Mukilteo, WA 98275 (~10 mins from Everett)

🎯 Fun Fact:

The working lighthouse has stood since 1906 and is still operated by the Coast Guard. It's a favorite spot for ferry-watching, wedding pics, and quiet beach picnics.

If you’ve got a few extra hours—or just need a quick change of scenery—Mukilteo Lighthouse Park is one of the best things to do near Everett WA. It’s only about a 15-minute drive from downtown, but it feels like a whole different world. Slower pace, saltier air, and a postcard-perfect view of ferries gliding across Puget Sound.

The centerpiece is the historic Mukilteo Lighthouse, a whitewashed beauty that’s been standing here since 1906. You can tour the lighthouse during the warmer months, climb the narrow stairs, and get a killer view from the top. Even if you’re just walking the beach, the place oozes charm.

File:Mukilteo LightHouse in Mukilteo , Washington.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Locals come here to picnic, skip rocks, fish off the pier, or just sit and watch the ferries roll in from Whidbey Island. There’s a big grassy lawn, fire pits, picnic shelters, and plenty of benches facing the water—perfect for catching your breath after a packed day in Everett.

Stick around for sunset if you can. The light hits the water just right, and the sky over the Sound puts on a show that’s hard to forget

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Hours: Dawn to dusk
  • Fees: Free
  • Parking: Paid onsite
  • Accessibility: Lighthouse may have limited access; park is ADA accessible

19. The Space Needle

📍 Location: 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109 (~40 mins south of Everett)

🎯 Fun Fact:

Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the Needle was inspired by a flying saucer on a pedestal, and today features a rotating glass floor 500 feet up.

The Space Needle rises 605 feet into the Seattle sky, a striking symbol of innovation and aspiration since its debut at the 1962 World’s Fair. Originally conceived as a vision of the future, it remains one of the most recognized landmarks in the Pacific Northwest, drawing over a million visitors each year.

A trip to the top begins with a 41-second elevator ride that lifts guests to the observation deck. From there, panoramic views stretch across the city: Mount Rainier to the south, Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains to the west, and Lake Union flanked by the Cascade Range to the east. The recently updated viewing platform now includes floor-to-ceiling glass walls and an outdoor open-air deck, letting you feel the breeze and take in the expanse without barriers.

What sets the experience apart is “The Loupe”—the world’s first and only rotating glass floor. It gives visitors the sensation of floating above the cityscape, offering an unforgettable way to see Seattle’s streets, rooftops, and bustling foot traffic from a truly unique perspective.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Hours: Daily, 10am–10pm
  • Tickets: ~$25–$35
  • Accessibility: Fully ADA compliant

20. Chihuly Garden and Glass

📍 Location: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109

🎯 Fun Fact:

World-famous artist Dale Chihuly grew up in nearby Tacoma. His museum offers jaw-dropping blown-glass art that blends seamlessly with indoor gardens and natural light.

Chihuly Garden and Glass stands as a captivating fusion of art and nature, nestled beside the iconic Space Needle. Opened in 2012, this 12,000-square-foot exhibition celebrates the legendary Seattle glass artist Dale Chihuly, showcasing an extraordinary display of hand-blown sculptures set amid lush indoor gardens and in a sunlit outdoor pavilion. Each installation is an intricate dance of color, light, and organic form—towering glass columns echoing tree trunks, delicate neon-like tendrils recalling sea critters, and bold hanging chandeliers shimmering above.

Wandering through the galleries, visitors encounter immersive pieces like the Glasshouse’s 100-foot-long central sculpture, glowing with ever-shifting hues beneath a glass roof. Indoors, gallery rooms highlight thematic collections—a crisp whites exhibition, a palette of sea gourds, and even luminous glass orbs floating among foliage.

The thoughtful integration of garden plantings and glass installations gives the space a seamless indoor-outdoor character. Benches and pathways invite leisurely viewing and reflection. A cafe and gift shop on site offer art-inspired treats and keepsakes, a fitting end to an otherworldly visit.

Chihuly Garden and Glass offers more than a visual feast—it invites you into another world, one where light becomes matter and nature resonates through molten glass. It’s an essential stop for anyone drawn to color, craftsmanship, and the unexpected whisper of art in a city skyline.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Hours: 11am–6pm daily
  • Tickets: ~$32
  • Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible

21. Grand Avenue Park

📍 Location: 1800 Grand Ave, Everett, WA 98201

🎯 Fun Fact:

This bluff-top park offers panoramic views of the marina, Olympic Mountains, and Puget Sound—and connects via a dramatic pedestrian bridge to the waterfront below.

Grand Avenue Park stretches like a scenic balcony above Everett’s historic waterfront, offering some of the most captivating views in the city. Perched along a bluff that once formed part of the city’s original design, the park overlooks the Port of Everett, the Puget Sound, and the Olympic Mountains in the distance. It’s a favorite place for locals to catch a sunset, stroll under towering shade trees, or enjoy the simple quiet of watching ferries and tugboats move across the water.

Wide, paved walkways lined with benches and classic lampposts give the park a timeless elegance. A recent pedestrian bridge now connects the bluff to the waterfront below, turning what was once a visual destination into a physical one. The bridge descends past train tracks and a marina to the promenade at the Port of Everett, expanding access while preserving the park’s peaceful character.

Art installations, manicured lawns, and seasonal flowers give Grand Avenue Park more than just a good view—it offers atmosphere. People come here to walk, think, picnic, or meet friends before exploring nearby neighborhoods.

ℹ️ Important Info:

  • Hours: 6am–10pm
  • Fees: Free
  • Accessibility: Elevator in pedestrian bridge is ADA friendly

Conclusion

Everett isn’t a city that tries to impress with flash—it wins you over with its personality. From waterfront walks and funky art spaces to beach escapes, breweries, and hidden parks, there’s a wide mix of things to see, do, taste, and explore. And the best part? It all feels real. No tourist traps, no forced charm—just honest-to-goodness places that locals love and visitors remember.

So if you’ve been wondering how to fill your time here, this list should give you a solid start. From outdoor adventures to food spots, from family fun to quiet trails, you’ll find no shortage of things to do in Everett WA. And chances are, you’ll discover a few surprises of your own along the way.

Planning to visit? Karta has some amazing deals on Everett vacation rentals for you.

FAQ

1. How far is Everett WA from Seattle?

Everett is about 25 to 30 miles north of Seattle, depending on your starting point. It usually takes 35 to 45 minutes by car via I-5, though traffic during peak hours can stretch that a bit. It’s an easy drive, which makes Everett a popular weekend escape for Seattleites.

2. What is Everett WA known for?

Everett is known for its working waterfront, aerospace heritage, and Funko Headquarters. It’s also home to Paine Field, a hub for aviation lovers, as well as Jetty Island, Schack Art Center, and a lively arts and music scene. The city blends history, creativity, and nature in a way that feels uniquely Northwest.

3. Is Everett WA worth visiting?

Definitely. Everett offers a laid-back, local experience with a surprising range of activities. From beach escapes to historic theaters, craft breweries, and forest trails, there’s something for every traveler. It’s a place where you can explore without crowds and still find memorable things to do.

4. What’s the best time to visit Everett WA?

The best time to visit is late spring through early fall (May to September). This is when Jetty Island ferry service runs, events and festivals are in full swing, and the weather is at its best. Fall is also beautiful, with crisp air and autumn colors, while winter offers a quieter, cozy feel.

5. What is the weather like in Everett WA?

Everett has a mild, maritime climate. Summers are warm and dry with average highs around 75°F (24°C), while winters are cool and rainy, typically hovering in the 40s°F (5–9°C). It’s rarely extreme, but you’ll want layers—especially in fall and spring.

6. Are there things to do in Everett WA when it rains?

Yes—plenty. Imagine Children’s Museum, Schack Art Center, Funko HQ, and the Historic Everett Theatre are all great rainy-day picks. You can also check out local breweries, catch a show, or browse vintage shops downtown without needing sunshine.

7. Where should I stay during a weekend in Everett?

You’ll find hotels near the waterfront and downtown, but for a more local, flexible stay, check out vacation rentals on Karta.com. It’s a great way to get extra space, kitchen access, and a home base close to all the action.

8. What are some things to do near Everett WA?

There are great day trips nearby. Mukilteo Lighthouse Park is just 15 minutes away, or head to Snohomish wine country for tastings and farm visits. You’re also close to hiking in the Cascades, ferry rides to Whidbey Island, and even a quick hop down to Seattle if you want more urban energy.

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Paul Williams

A seasoned travel blogger who has lived in both the United Kingdom and the United States. Contributed to various publications, websites, and digital platforms focused on travel.