Indie music hub, foodie destination and outdoor-lovers’ paradise, Seattle, Washington has many draws. Its perch on Puget Sound, surrounding mountains and instantly recognizable skyline are stunning from above. Book an airplane tour in Seattle for an ideal way to soak in the area’s many sights in a short amount of time.

Here's all you need to know about airplane tours, one of the most exhilarating and comprehensive outdoor activities in Seattle.

What are the best airplane tours in Seattle?

Whether you want to see Seattle’s landmarks from the sky or view the many peaks in the area without lacing up your hiking boots, airplane tours in Seattle can meet your needs.

Greater Seattle airplane tours

Let a pilot and guide introduce you to the “Emerald City” on a short flight over the Seattle area. Hear the story behind the view as you soar over Pike Place Market, the Space Needle and the Alki Beach Boardwalk. Your guide won’t forget to point out natural beauty like the islands and inlets of Puget Sound, forested lakes and the mountains at Seattle’s edges.

Mountain airplane tours

Many of the Pacific Northwest’s most famous peaks are easily seen on a half-day trip from Seattle. View Mount Rainier, Mount Hood or Mount Saint Helens from the sky as a guide tells you about these superlative mountains.

San Juan Island tours

Located between mainland Washington and Vancouver, Canada, the San Juan Islands make up an archipelago in the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Take in sights of the pine-covered islands and search for whales from above.

How much do airplane tours in Seattle cost?

Greater Seattle airplane tours cost $105 per person for flights in a standard plane and $120 per person for seaplane tours.
Mountain tours cost from $325 per person for trips to Mount Rainier. Trips to Mount St Helens cost $570 per person, and longer tours to the Olympic Mountains cost $930 per person.
San Juan Island tours cost $550 per person.

What will you see on an airplane tour in Seattle?

With mountains on three sides and water on the other, the Seattle area’s attractions are some of the most beautiful in the US. However, no visit to the “Emerald City” would be complete without seeing its quintessential sites.

Space needle

Constructed for the 1962 World’s Fair, Seattle’s Space Needle is one of the most recognizable landmarks on the West Coast. Reaching almost 200 meters above the town, the structure is an integral part of the city’s skyline. Snap photos from above as you see the Needle from a novel perspective.

Puget Sound

The body of water that surrounds Seattle is a network of channels, islands and inlets fed by meltwater from the Cascade and Olympic Mountains. Puget Sound’s islands welcome wildlife and humans alike. Absorb views of waterside homes and breaching whales.

Lake Washington

Seattle’s University of Washington sits along the shores of Lake Washington, the state’s second-largest lake. See the university’s Husky Stadium and brick buildings from above, and take in the lake’s sandy beaches and sparkling waters.

The Olympic and Cascade Mountains

Two mountain ranges are visible from Seattle. Stretching from Oregon to beyond the Canadian border are the Cascades, and the sun sets over the Olympics. The most noteworthy peaks are Mounts Rainier, Hood and St Helens.

What is included?

Your airplane tour from Seattle includes commentary from a guide with the aid of noise-canceling headsets. Mountain and island tours also include aerial visits to Seattle sites.

Where does it start?

Tours in standard airplanes begin at King City Airport. A majority of the tours are in a seaplane. There are two points of departure for seaplane flights, both located on Lake Washington.

How long does it last?

Greater Seattle tours last 20 minutes. Mountain tours last from 1.5 hours to 3 hours, depending on which mountains are included in your tour. San Juan Islands tours last 2.5 hours.

When is the best time for an airplane tour in Seattle?

You can enjoy spectacular views on an airplane tour at any time of year in Seattle. The best weather is from May to September, and that’s also the high tourist season. To avoid crowds and take advantage of good weather, book your airplane tour for September or October.

Is it safe to take an airplane tour in Seattle?

Yes, airplane tours in Seattle are safe, as they provide an expert pilot and safety equipment. These excursions are not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with heart conditions or other serious medical concerns. If in doubt, check with the tour provider before booking.

Are children allowed on an airplane tour in Seattle?

Airplane tours in Seattle have no age limit, as long as children travel with an accompanying adult. Most tours allow children aged 2 and below to sit on an adult's lap and travel free of charge.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Seattle?

What happens in case of bad weather?

Airplane tours in Seattle require good weather. In case of weather causing poor visibility or dangerous conditions, tour providers will offer a chance to reschedule your flight or give a full refund.

Travel tips

If you suffer from motion sickness, take medication 1 hour before your tour.
Tours do not include drinks or snacks, so you may want to pack some for longer tours.
Make sure your camera or smartphone is charged so that you can capture lots of photos.

Airplane Tours in Seattle