You’re taking in the sights of Seattle, Washington’s Emerald City, and visiting all the must-see spots. Seeing all the amazing sites, eating all the delicious food, and experiencing the chill atmosphere of the Pacific Northwest must be a blast. It’s easy to get wrapped up in seeing the sights and trying the local coffee that you forget an essential part of any trip: bringing back souvenirs from Seattle that will remind you of your time here. After all, you don’t want to head home empty-handed, right?
Lucky for you, that’s where I come in! I’ve lived in Seattle for over three decades, and in that time, I’ve explored the city extensively, finding and recommending hidden gems to friends, family, and countless tourists. There is nothing more rewarding than helping someone find that one unique item that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Seattle, and I have played personal shopper for dozens of people looking for the perfect Seattle souvenir.
Let’s face it – anyone can pick up a Seattle t-shirt or a keychain. But we’re not just anyone, are we? We want something unique, something that screams “Seattle” in all its quirky glory. Whether you’re here for a fleeting one day visit or an extended PNW road trip, I’ve got your back. I’m about to drive you away from the cliché and toward the uniquely memorable.
In this guide, I’ll share my all-time favorite souvenirs from Seattle, whether you’re a tourist or a local looking to shop for someone else. These aren’t your typical souvenirs; rather, they capture the spirit of our hometown in unique ways. I’ll also clue you in on where to shop for these finds around town. So, get ready to uncover a treasure trove of souvenirs that are quintessentially Seattle and make your travel experience even more unforgettable.
This post was first written in 2021 and last updated in 2023.
Looking for the ultimate Seattle travel guide written by a local that tells you all the best places to go and what to see? My new ebook is now live, so click here to buy your copy!
1. Glass-Blown Souvenirs
Where to Buy: Chihuly Museum, Garden and Glass, or Seattle Glassblowing Studio
A popular Seattle gift idea that I’ve always gotten an enthusiastic reaction to is authentic hand-blown glass art, which you can find at various places throughout the city. Home to the world-renowned glassmaker Dale Chihuly, Seattle has become an epicenter for glass blowing. Today, the artist’s work is showcased in the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum (a perfect place to spend a rainy day in Seattle).
While authentic Chihuly pieces will cost you thousands of dollars, the famous artist’s original style still shines through the glass art found throughout the city. Affordable pieces, like ornaments, figurines, and small globes, are made by other local artists and can be purchased for as little as $20.
For glassblowing enthusiasts – enroll in the Seattle Glassblowing Studios glass-blowing classes and bring back a truly authentic Seattle souvenir idea that you made with your own two hands!
If you’re interested in a guided tour of the Chihuly Garden and Glass and the rest of Seattle, check out this private half-day tour. You’ll love this activity if you’re spending 4 days in Seattle.
Make sure to buy a CityPass if you’re visiting Chihuly Garden and Glass, as you’ll save money visiting these and other popular attractions in the city!
2. Smoked Salmon
Where to buy: Alaska Smokehouse or Pike Place Market
Wild-caught Pacific Northwest salmon is a classic and affordable Seattle gift idea that dates back centuries. While you can purchase salmon almost anywhere in the world, Seattle’s is most certainly among the best. Soft, rich, and tasty, you cannot go wrong with one of the most popular Seattle gift ideas, and this is a treat that I never grow sick of, even as a local.
Smoked salmon is a popular option as it doesn’t need to be refrigerated and has a shelf-life of up to 5 years. Sold both fresh (packed in airline-approved coolers) and in shelf-stable boxes, salmon products can be easily delivered throughout the country.
For the perfect Washington State souvenir, the Alaska Smokehouse offers lovely wooden gift boxes. Each box contains a treasure of mouth-watering salmon – sustainably caught off the coast of Alaska, hand-filleted, marinated, and slow-smoked over proper alder wood fires. The classic, uniquely designed cedar boxes also make for lovely keepsakes, so make sure to pick this up when spending a weekend in Seattle.
If you’re visiting during summer in Seattle, make sure to check out fresh salmon at the local seafood restaurants as well! The Crab Pot and Ivar’s are two of my favorite ones to visit when I’m by the waterfront.
You can buy online from companies like Goldbelly or Amazon.
3. Starbucks Pike Place Market Coffee Mug
Where to buy: Original Starbucks store at Pike Place Market
I used to be addicted to collecting Starbucks mugs from wherever I traveled, especially when I was traveling all over the world when I started this website eight years ago. However, the Seattle Pike Place Market mug is easily one of the most special ones that I have in my collection.
This is not just any Seattle coffee mug, but one from the city’s very first Starbucks store. Established in 1971 at the ever-popular Pike Place Market, the original store has managed to uphold its classic and authentic appearance. For any Starbucks lover, there is no better Seattle souvenir than this, especially if you have already collected these mugs.
While Starbucks branded mugs can be found at pretty much any regional store, you can only buy this mug at this one location. The classic Pike Place Market mug is as authentic as it gets (and it’s just fun to drink coffee out of).
Just be aware that there will be a long line to get in, as it’s a popular tourist attraction. Take my locals tip and go right when it opens to avoid waiting, and then get coffee somewhere else to support a local cafe.
You can also buy this online if you can’t make it to the store in person.
Before you visit, make sure to understand how to get from the Seattle airport to downtown.
4. Local Coffee Beans
Where to buy: Any local coffee shop that’s not Starbucks
Seattle and coffee are said to go hand-in-hand. With its deep, rich coffee culture, there is no shortage of small, independent coffee roasters and shops in this city. Most coffee shops and cafés offer their own gift items and special Seattle coffee blends, so pick your favorite one and bring home some freshly roasted beans.
I’ve gone to dozens of Seattle coffee shops over the years, and it’s impossible for me to name my favorite one. However, for an authentic Seattle coffee gift, Fonté Café is among the best. Committed to producing the highest quality coffee, their local roasters earned the reputation as the “best micro-roasters in the Northwest” by Northwest Palate Magazine.
At this lovely café, you’ll find a rich selection of single-origin, signature blends, hand-roasted, and freshly roasted coffee beans. You can purchase bags of these high-quality, sustainably produced beans for as little as $14.
However, it’s hard to pick just one coffee roaster with how many amazing ones we have in Seattle, so you can’t go wrong with most local shops (just don’t pick up beans from Starbucks, as there’s nothing original about them!).
Here is a list of some of my favorite local coffee shops:
- Herkimer Coffee
- Zoka Coffee Roaster
- Caffe Ladro
- Fulcrum Cafe
- Victrola Cafe
If you can’t visit in person, you can order from a variety of local roasters online at Seattle Coffee Gear.
While you’re in Seattle, take a look at these unique things to do in the Pacific Northwest.
5. Theo’s Chocolate
Where to buy: Theo Chocolate Factory at 3400 Phinney Avenue North
Of all the things to buy in Seattle, chocolate is among the best. Theo’s Chocolate is one of the city’s chocolate darlings and is the first organic, fair-trade chocolatier in America. Their sustainably produced chocolates boast a deep, rich flavor and are a local favorite. I buy at least one bar a month when I’m at the grocery store, plus they always make unique gifts from Seattle
Beautifully packaged, with its hip and creative logo on the front, Theo’s Chocolates has become a trendy souvenir from Seattle. You can purchase Theo’s wide range of light, dark, and flavored chocolates for as low as $2 a bar or $8 and up for a gift pack. I love the huge range of chocolates they have, such as unique ones like bread and chocolate bars and dark chocolate-covered marshmallows.
While these delicious, award-winning chocolates can be purchased at most local stores, it is best to get them from the source – Theo’s Chocolate Factory. Book a one-hour tour as a cheap activity in Seattle and get an up-close look at how the tasty chocolate treats are produced (no Golden Ticket required!).
Theo’s is available online as well if you aren’t able to find them in person.
6. Fran’s Caramel Sauce
Where to buy: Fran’s Chocolate Outlet or any Whole Foods
Another one of Seattle’s chocolate darlings is Fran’s, which is well-known for its decadent, creamy taste. Their most outstanding offering, however, is a rich caramel sauce. Slow-cooked caramelized sugar and cream create a topping that will have your taste buds dancing.
Warm it up and use it as a dressing for pancakes, waffles, and other desserts or dip for various snacks. Spoon it straight from the jar or add it to your coffee. No matter how you choose to use it, it is sure to be delicious and one of the easiest things to buy from Seattle.
You can also buy this online if it’s more convenient.
7. Marionberry Jam
Where to buy: Many Seattle gift shops or via the Seattle Gourmet Foods website
Another tasty Seattle souvenir that boasts an authentic Pacific Northwestern flavor is marionberry jam. Made from a locally grown blackberry and often referred to as the “Cabernet of blackberries,” these gourmet jams offer a unique taste that very few will get to experience. My parents always get me a jar of this when they go up to visit Anacortes, and my family loves putting it on our toast.
While many jams are stuffed with sugar, these lovely jams get their deliciousness from the fruit itself. One of the top producers of this jam is Seattle Gourmet Foods which acquired the Maury Island brand. These flavor-packed jars of marionberry jam are available in many retail stores around the city and through the Seattle Gourmet Foods website. You’ll consider this one of the best Seattle gifts for the jam-lover in your life.
8. Pike Place Market Apron & Towels
Where to buy: Pike Place Market
The ever-popular Pike Place Market is most commonly known for its fresh fish, fruit, vegetables, and flowers. While some of these items may not keep long enough to be bought as a souvenir, the market has some lovely alternatives for unique Seattle gifts when spending one day in Seattle.
Colorful, hand-silk-screened towels and matching aprons are popular Seattle souvenirs, and I’ve gotten these for several out-of-town friends before. Showcasing Pacific Northwest artist Christine Vaughan’s designs, these lovely flour sack kitchen accessories have become a Seattle kitchen staple.
Embroidered on the towels and aprons are stunning images of fruits, vegetables, fish, and some indigenous Northwest animals. Other colorful accessories and kitchenware are sold throughout the market, but these vintage towels and aprons are genuinely authentic and are the perfect Seattle souvenirs.
While you’re at Pike Place Market, make sure to check out this list of the famous food in Seattle that you should try!
You can buy them online if you’re not able to make the trip in person.
9. Raw Honey
Where to buy: Gourmet boutiques or farmers’ markets
There are many places you can buy raw honey from, thanks to the many beekeepers in the area. You’ll often see this sold at the many farmers’ markets in the area throughout the week (such as in Edmonds), and I always have at least a few jars of honey on hand during the year.
One particular company to get honey from when looking for Seattle gifts is Ballard Bee Company. Through responsible urban beekeeping, the owner – Corky Luster – and the award-winning beekeepers at Ballard Bee Company have produced a blend of honey that is simply one-of-a-kind.
Honey always makes for a truly unique Seattle gift, and you’ll find plenty of other local companies as well. Some of my favorites include Shipwreck Honey, Sunny Honey Company, and Woodland Bee Company, and you’ll likely see at least one of these brands at the popular Seattle gift shops around town.
10. Seattle Space Needle Souvenirs
Where to buy: Bronze Space Needle or Simply Seattle online
A fun fact about Seattle is that an observation tower known as the Space Needle was built in Seattle Center for the 1962 World’s Fair and now serves as an icon for the city. The detailed design of the tower was inspired by the Stuttgart Tower in Germany and the La Ronde revolving tower restaurant in Hawaii.
While I know this is a more touristy gift from Seattle than the other items on this list, you can only get Space Needle souvenirs in Seattle, so it’s one of the most popular Seattle souvenirs. As one of the city’s most famous landmarks, you can find Space Needle souvenirs in several nearby gift shops.
Whether you purchase a detailed etched model, fridge magnet, or key chain, they all make for a fun Seattle souvenir.
You can also buy Space Needle gifts online if you’re in a pinch.
11. Handmade Cheese
Where to buy: Beecher’s Handmade Cheese
Across from Pike Place Market is Seattle’s well-renowned specialty cheese factory – Beecher’s Handmade Cheese, an amazing place for gifts from Seattle. I love getting lunch here and being able to watch how some of the best cheese in the Pacific Northwest is made while I wait for my meal.
You can also sample the cheese, purchase recipe books, and learn about cheese in-depth. Their cafe is especially tasty during winter in Seattle, where you can get grilled cheese and tomato soup (my favorite).
Still practicing the centuries-old craft of open-vat cheese making, the factory produces some of the best cheese products imaginable. A local favorite is an award-winning meal kit known as the “World’s Best Mac & Cheese Kit” that you’ll want to get as an idea of what to buy from Seattle. The notorious Mac & Cheese, which even featured on Oprah’s favorite things, makes for a hearty gift and can be purchased for about $55.
Need somewhere to stay? Here are the best places to stay in Seattle.
12. Hand-Carved Totem Poles
Where to buy: Ye Olde Curiosity Shop
Another fun idea for souvenirs from Seattle are these locally-made totem poles. Originally made by natives of the Pacific Northwest and often passed down through families, these authentic pieces are a beautiful symbol of the region’s rich history. Today, the original totems are found in museums throughout the city, and talented artists continue to carve their own.
While you may not want to purchase a full-size totem as a gift when looking for what souvenirs to buy in Seattle, a smaller hand-size one will do just the trick and can be found in many Seattle souvenir shops. For a hand-carved and locally-made totem pole, visit the Ye Olde Curiosity Shop located on the Central Waterfront of Seattle. You’ll also find some along the waterfront for Instagram spots in Seattle.
13. Northwest Designer Jewelry
Where to buy: Steinbrueck Gallery, Raven’s Nest Treasure, Eighth Generation
Another one of the best Seattle souvenirs that is unique to the Pacific Northwest is handcrafted designer jewelry. A prime example of the exquisite designer jewelry found in Seattle is renowned artist Erich Glendale of the Kwakwaka’wakw Nation. Erich Glendale and other local artists like Lorene Hanlon have designed a range of handcrafted, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Necklaces, bracelets, earrings, broaches, and talismans are some of the beautiful pieces sold and are some of the best gifts from Seattle. I’m always adding new bracelets or earrings to my collection, as they have such a beautiful look not often found in other designs. It’s also a great idea for a gift if you’re on a romantic date in Seattle.
Didn’t rent a car? Here’s how to get around Seattle without a car.
14. Craft Beer
Where to buy: Pike’s Brewing Company or any local brewery
For beer enthusiasts, get a taste of some of the area’s finest craft beers at one of the best breweries in Seattle. The city’s booming craft beer culture came about due to pioneering craft breweries that experimented with unconventional flavors and new fermentation methods.
Today, you will find a wide variety of Seattle microbreweries and nanobreweries throughout the city, each offering a truly authentic taste. That’s why it’s the perfect option when looking for what to bring home from Seattle if you’re a beer lover.
To sample or purchase from a broad selection of year-round and seasonal craft beers, head to the famous Pike Brewing Company. In addition to tasting and buying, the brewery also offers daily tours, where you can enjoy a first-hand look at the processes behind Seattle’s world-class beverage.
However, there are so many breweries in the area that I love, and while I can’t name them all, here are a few others that I often visit:
- Old Stove Brewing
- Optimism Brewing Company
- Cloudburst Brewing
Check out this Old Ballard brewery tour and visit some of Seattle’s best breweries.
15. MarketSpice Tea
Where to buy: MarketSpice Tea, Made in Washington
When looking for what to buy in Seattle, look no further than one of the best teas I’ve ever had. I’ve been drinking MarketSpice Tea since high school, when my mom used to buy it, and I’d have it on cold, rainy days. I now buy it myself to stock up on, as this cinnamon-orange tea has a flavor unlike anything else I’ve tasted before (and I’m picky about tea).
If you have a tea-lover in your life or you’re the one that can’t get enough of tea, buy a few boxes of this to try out. I also love the old picture of Pike Place Market on the box, so it makes a classic Seattle souvenir.
While you’re now able to buy this at pretty much any grocery store around Seattle, you can also visit their Pike Place Market storefront when you’re there. That way, you can see the whole selection they have and find a new one you haven’t heard of before.
You can buy this tea online if you missed out in person.
16. Aplets and Cotlets
Where to buy: Local grocery stores
Did you know that one of the most unique and delicious souvenirs you can get from Seattle is actually a local sweet treat known as Aplets & Cotlets? Made by Liberty Orchards in nearby Cashmere, Washington, these scrumptious little candies have been a Pacific Northwest tradition for over a century and make for one of the best souvenirs from Seattle.
The perfect blend of sweet and tart, Aplets & Cotlets are made from Washington apples and apricots, combined with walnuts and a dusting of powdered sugar. Once you’ve tried them, you’ll understand why they’ve been a favorite for generations among locals.
Aplets & Cotlets be on your Seattle souvenir list because not only do they taste amazing, but they truly represent the flavors and traditions of the Pacific Northwest. Buying them supports local businesses and gives you a chance to taste a bit of Washington’s agricultural bounty. Plus, they’re pretty easy to pack and make a great gift for folks back home who weren’t lucky enough to come along on your Seattle adventure.
You can also purchase them online.
17. Washington State Wine
Where to buy: Pike and Western Wine Shop, local grocery stores
While we’re known for our beer production in Seattle, the state also makes some amazing wine. If you’re searching for a sophisticated and distinctly local souvenir from Seattle, look no further than a bottle of Washington wine.
Why wine, you ask? Well, Washington State is the second-largest wine producer in the United States, renowned for its diverse and high-quality wines. With over 1,000 wineries scattered across the region’s unique climates and landscapes, Washington wines truly capture the essence of the Pacific Northwest.
Among the vast selection, a few names stand out, making them the perfect additions to your Seattle souvenir list. Chateau Ste. Michelle, located in Woodinville (and a perfect Seattle day trip idea), is Washington’s oldest winery and is celebrated for its award-winning Rieslings and Cabernet Sauvignons. Their wines encapsulate the regional flavors and reflect the rich history of Washington’s wine-making journey.
Then there’s Genoa Cellars, a boutique winery in Woodinville that specializes in Super-Tuscan-style blends. They expertly marry the fruit-forward style of Washington grapes with the structure of traditional Italian wine, resulting in a uniquely satisfying sip. Grabbing a bottle from either winery lets you take home a piece of Seattle’s surrounding wine country, offering a refined, sensory reminder of your time in this vibrant city.
18. Local Sports Merchandise
Where to buy: Mariners Team Store, Pro Shop at Lumen Field
One of the best ways to bring a piece of Seattle back home with you? Rep some of our city’s sports pride! We Seattleites are really into our sports teams, and we have the gear to prove it (I dare you to look in my closet; I have a whole section of jerseys and sweatshirts).
Whether you’ve caught the football fever with the Seahawks, cheered on the Sounders at a riveting soccer match, or joined the Kraken’s crew for some ice hockey action, grabbing a piece of sportswear is a fun and exciting way to remember your time in Seattle.
You’ll find a wide range of team gear all around the city – from jerseys that make you feel part of the squad to scarves that’ll keep you cozy while you cheer or hats that are as practical as they are stylish. You can share your Seattle story whenever you wear your jersey, wrap up in your scarf, or don your team hat.
And who knows? You might even inspire someone else to come and experience the magic of Seattle for themselves!
Grab your Seahawks swag on NFL.com, Kraken jersey on NHL.com, or Sounders gear on MLSstore.com.
19. Anything Nautical
Where to buy: The Seattle Shop at 56, Essentially Seattle
Being nestled between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, Seattle is a city with deep ties to the water. It’s hard not to fall in love with the nautical vibes that flow through the city, reflecting its maritime history and the natural beauty that surrounds it. If you, like me, have a soft spot for the ocean, then nautical-themed souvenirs from Seattle are an absolute must-have.
There’s a certain charm in collecting sea-themed items from your travels, especially from a city as steeped in maritime culture as Seattle. From intricate glass-blown pieces inspired by marine life to beautifully designed jewelry with nautical motifs to home decor items like pillows or wall art with sea-themed prints, you’ll find a treasure trove of oceanic offerings in the Emerald City.
Each piece serves as a gorgeous reminder of your Seattle journey and allows you to carry a piece of the city’s maritime soul. So, go ahead and expand your sea-themed collection with unique pieces from Seattle – it’s a fantastic way to remember the salty breeze, the ferry rides, and the glorious ocean views that make this city so unique.
Let me know in the comments which souvenirs from Seattle you decided to buy!
