Seattle in January offers a unique blend of experiences and advantages:
- Low tourist crowds: Compared to peak season, January offers a more tranquil and intimate atmosphere, allowing visitors to explore popular attractions without long queues.
- Cultural immersion: Experience the vibrant arts and culture scene with fewer crowds at museums, theaters, and galleries.
- Unique events: Seattle hosts several special events in January, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration and the Seattle Art Fair.
- Affordable travel: January typically has lower airfare and hotel rates than other months, making it a budget-friendly time to visit.
- Seasonal attractions: While the weather may be less predictable, visitors can enjoy activities such as ice skating at the iconic Olympic Sculpture Park or exploring the winter wonderland of the nearby Cascade Mountains.
Weather In Seattle During January
Temperature:
- Average high: 46°F (8°C)
- Average low: 36°F (2°C)
Precipitation:
- Average rainfall: 5.1 inches (130 mm)
- Average snowfall: 0.8 inches (2 cm)
Other:
- Days with measurable rain: 16
- Days with measurable snow: 1
- Average humidity: 81%
- Wind speed: 6-11 mph (9-18 km/h)
Summary:
Seattle’s weather in January is typically cool and wet, with frequent drizzle and occasional rain. Snowfall is rare, but it can occur during the month. The days are short, with an average of 8.5 hours of daylight.
Things To Do In Seattle In January
Festivals and Celebrations in January in Seattle
- Seattle Winter Brewfest: Held annually at the Lumen Field Event Center, this festival showcases over 400 beers from local and international breweries. (Mid-January)
- Emerald City Comic Con: A three-day convention featuring comic books, films, TV shows, and gaming. (End of January)
- Lunar New Year Festival: Celebrate the Chinese New Year with traditional performances, lion dances, and festive food in the Seattle Chinatown-International District. (End of January/Early February)
Unique Attractions and Activities in January
- Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing: Escape the city for a winter adventure at Mount Si or Snoqualmie Pass.
- Ice Skating at the Seattle Center: Enjoy a scenic skate around the iconic ice rink at the Seattle Center.
- Visit the Seattle Art Museum (SAM): Explore renowned exhibitions and permanent collections ranging from ancient art to contemporary works.
- Attend a Seattle Symphony Concert: Experience the world-class Seattle Symphony Orchestra perform at Benaroya Hall.
- Explore the Seattle Aquarium: Discover diverse marine life from the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
- Visit the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP): Immerse yourself in the world of popular culture, including music, movies, video games, and science fiction.
- Shop for Unique Gifts at Pike Place Market: Browse a vibrant variety of goods, including fresh produce, seafood, crafts, and local souvenirs.
- Take a Ferry to Bainbridge Island: Enjoy a scenic ferry ride and explore the charming town of Bainbridge Island, just across Puget Sound.
Tourism In Seattle, United States During January
During January, Seattle’s tourism scene offers a blend of cultural immersions and urban adventures. The annual Seattle Restaurant Week showcases culinary delights from local establishments, attracting food enthusiasts. The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) presents captivating exhibits on music, movies, and video games, while the Seattle Art Museum offers a diverse collection of renowned artworks. For literary enthusiasts, the Seattle Public Library holds book clubs and literary events. The city’s vibrant waterfront hosts the lively Pike Place Market, where visitors can browse local produce, crafts, and seafood. The iconic Space Needle provides breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscape and Puget Sound. Additionally, Seattle’s thriving music scene offers diverse performances at venues such as the Neptune Theatre and the Showbox.