Why Seattleites `Do It in the Rain’
If you’re visiting Seattle and wondering whether a little rain will derail your plans, here’s
the short answer: Nope. Not here.
In Seattle, rain isn’t a reason to cancel. It’s just background noise. Locals hike in it, walk
the dog in it, sip coffee outdoors in it, and cheer at soccer games while it politely
drizzles sideways. Around here, we proudly do it in the rain.
Rain Is Just Part of the Vibe
Seattle rain is usually not the dramatic, thunder-and-lightning kind. It’s more of a soft,
misty companion—like the city is gently spritzing itself to stay green. In fact, we don’t
have only one word for “rain” in Seattle. We might say it’s “sprinkling,” or “misting.” It
might be “partly cloudy.” Only rarely do we have a “downpour.”
Locals don’t wait for “perfect weather,” because if we did, we’d be waiting indoors most
of the time during the October-April rainy season. Instead, we’ve embraced a simple
truth: We won’t melt. Life goes on, rain or shine.
What about umbrellas?
You may have heard that in Seattle, umbrellas are “optional,” which means locals often
don’t own one – opting instead for a plethora of jackets with hoods. Most Seattleites
walk around without umbrellas in the rain.
Why?
Wind laughs at umbrellas
One hand is already holding coffee
We’re the birthplace of REI and Filson, not to mention Outdoor Research (amazing outdoor outfitters)
What’s a visitor to do if it rains? Embrace the moist. Get outside. Some even say things
are better in the rain. Forests smell richer. Waterfalls are fuller. The city feels cozy and
cinematic—like it’s starring in its own indie film.
If you’re visiting and see a little rain in the forecast, don’t worry. Grab a jacket, lace up
your shoes, and join the locals. We’ll pick you up in our mini-bus and take you to all the most beautiful places. Because in Seattle… we do it in the rain.
