Traveling with teenagers, parents, and grandparents can be a tough sell— but Seattle Southside surprised us. From Tukwila, SeaTac, and Des Moines, we uncovered crave-worthy eats, unexpected attractions, and experiences that kept the whole family engaged. Whether a short weekend trip or a longer visit, Seattle Southside has something for everyone in the family.
Stay
Looking for a convenient base camp that’s close to all the action? The Embassy Suites Hilton in Tukwila is perfectly positioned to meet all counts. Spacious two-room suites comfortably accommodate everyone while still granting enough privacy for families to spread out during downtime. Perks like the indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and an evening reception make this an easy stay.
Play
Become a contestant on your very own gameshow at the Great Big Game Show, new at Westfield Southcenter Mall. This memorably good time pits you against family, friends, and even strangers. Step right up and press your buzzer to play games on what feels like a T.V. game show set, complete with all the flashing lights, hoopla, and your very own host.
Afterwards, uncover one of Washington’s strangest stories at the nearby UFO pop-up exhibit—inspired by the 1947 Maury Island Incident. Situated across from LensCrafters, the free exhibit brings this unusual chapter of history to life through interactive displays.
Not far from the mall, Dimension XR is a virtual reality playground that gets the whole family involved in a range of full-body games–fighting zombies, solving puzzles, and teaming up for unforgettable adventures.
Nothing could be more thrilling than indoor skydiving at iFLY. Whether you’re watching or suiting up to learn from the experts as you hover in the air, it’s an experience no one will forget.
A quick drive brings you to Waterland Arcade in Des Moines, where the classic charm of an old-school arcade meets modern favorites, with over 50 games to choose from–including pinball, air hockey, and more.
Dine
Breakfast at Tukwila’s Neighborhood Cafe appeals to all ages. Generous portions, welcoming vibes, and the recent addition of a pastry program–including cookies, matcha loaves, muffins, and sweet-savory Filipino pandesal, just to name a few. Combined with hearty menu favorites like breakfast plates, longanisa, lumpia, and ube pancakes, this place is a standout any time of the day.
Close by, Dong Thap Noodles serves up fresh Vietnamese fare with house-made noodles and rich broths for lunch or dinner—guaranteed to satisfy the appetites of everyone in your party.
A family-friendly dinner calls for Sharps RoastHouse, a SeaTac institution. Prime rib, smoked ribs, and rotisserie chicken are all prepared in full view on the dining room’s 25-foot roasting works. Recently updated inside, the restaurant also is known for its house-made sourdough pasta (watch as its being crafted on the custom-built Seattle sourdough pasta engine).
Another family-wide dinner option is Tandoori Slice in Des Moines. This family-owned spot serves specialty and Indian-inspired pizzas, salads, and appetizers like wings and paneer pakora—a sure hit for diners across generations. Plan your trip at Explore Seattle Southside.
By – Emily Molina