What to Pack for Seattle in April (Advice From a Local!)
April in Seattle signals the highly anticipated arrival of spring, bringing longer days, blooming cherry blossoms, and a balanced mix of rain and sunshine. While Seattle is still a bit unpredictable weather-wise in April, it’s a great month to visit if you want to beat the summer crowds, find better deals on accommodations, and experience the city waking up from winter. Figuring out what to pack for Seattle in April can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve never visited before.
If you’re planning a trip to Seattle this month, packing smart is key. This guide covers everything you need to bring, from essential layers to rain-friendly gear, so you can stay comfortable and enjoy the city no matter what the forecast throws your way.
As a Seattle local and former outdoor outfitter, I’ve spent years helping people gear up for the ever-changing Pacific Northwest weather. After living here for years and experiencing everything from random April heatwaves to nonstop rain, I’ve fine-tuned the perfect packing list for visiting Seattle this time of year.
In April, you can expect cool mornings, mild afternoons, and the occasional drizzle, with temperatures hovering between 45–60°F. Layering will be your best friend, and knowing what to wear in Seattle this time of year can be tricky, especially if you’re not used to packing for cool, damp conditions. This guide will walk you through what to pack for Seattle in April, highlight a few of the must-have staples, and also share a few location-specific essentials you won’t want to forget if you’re planning to do a day trip to some of the nearby National Parks or coastal areas around the state.
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What to Pack for Seattle in April
Lightweight Rain Jacket
The saying goes, “April showers bring May flowers”. This is so true of weather in Seattle in April. The rain showers are on-and-off but never usually too heavy. Think of the showers as light drizzles throughout the day.
The rain in April wouldn’t be enough to soak you to the bone but you’ll still want to be prepared with a lightweight rain jacket you can easily carry with you or wear when it’s sprinkling. You also won’t need any additional insulation added to your rain jacket, as temperatures don’t tend to drop below the mid-40s in Seattle during the month of April. It’s for this reason that I recommend a lightweight option such as a rain shell or water-resistant jacket.
If you’re planning to visit Olympic National Park or other areas on the Olympic Peninsula as a day trip or weekend trip from Seattle, you’ll likely experience much more rain and slightly cooler temperatures. The entire Olympic Peninsula is considered a rainforest, after all! Make sure to pack layers to be prepared and comfortable during your visit out there.
My personal recommendation for a lightweight rain jacket is the Outdoor Research Aspire II Jacket. This is a super light-weight, durable shell that can be worn over a shirt or sweater easily. You can also wear a down layer underneath if you need extra warmth! I bought mine roughly 4 years ago and it’s held up ever since with only having to re-waterproof it once a year.
For a full breakdown on how to layer for the unique weather in the PNW, check out my ultimate guide to packing for the Pacific Northwest!
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Comfortable walking shoes are a must if you’re planning to visit Seattle in April. The weather in April finally starts to warm up slightly compared to March or February, making it a great month to explore the city on foot. However, Seattle’s hills are no joke. If you don’t bring comfortable walking shoes, you risk getting blisters or foot pain during your trip!
If you can pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes or sneakers that are waterproof (or water-resistant), that’ll be a huge benefit to you if you’re hoping to walk around the downtown area.
On the topic of shoes, you should also make sure to pack several pairs of warm socks. I recommend packing 2 pairs of wool socks per day of your trip. It’s great to have a back-up pair of warm socks to change into if your feet somehow get wet or soaked through during the beginning part of the day.
Rain Boots
In addition to a comfortable pair of sneakers or walking shoes, it’s a good idea to pack a pair of rain boots if you have the space in your luggage. Seattle in April often brings light, off-and-on rain throughout the day, and rain boots are super practical for navigating wet sidewalks and puddles.
Having a second pair of waterproof shoes also means you can change back into your dry sneakers when the weather clears. No one wants to walk around in soaked shoes all day, only to wake up the next morning and have to put on still-damp sneakers because they didn’t have time to dry — especially if you didn’t pack a backup.
I swear by my Hunter Boots in the rainy season and they keep my feet dry and warm when I pair them with comfortable boot socks. Plus, I love that you can easily find them in any color or pattern online and they can match any style of outfit.
Lightweight Fleece Sweaters
Seattle in April isn’t exactly cold, but it’s not warm either. During the day, temperatures typically range from 45–60°F, with nights dipping about 5 to 10 degrees cooler. The good news is that snowfall is rare this time of year, which helps it feel a bit more comfortable compared to the colder winter months.
However, even with the slightly warmer temperatures you’ll definitely need a sweater or a fleece to stay warm. For me, I usually layer with a fleece base with my rain jacket overtop. This combo usually keeps me pretty warm and dry during the month of April in Seattle.
You probably won’t need a heavy jacket or multiple layers unless you get cold easily or are coming from a warm climate, but packing a lightweight sweater is definitely a must for exploring Seattle.
Hat or Beanie
For me, April is usually the last month I wear a beanie before swapping it out for something lighter in the warmer months. It’s still a must on most days, especially downtown where the wind can pick up and light rain is pretty common. My ears always end up cold if I don’t cover them, so I definitely recommend bringing a beanie or some type of head covering that keeps your ears warm and dry.
Any beanie will work, but my personal favorites are this Carhartt beanie and this Fjällräven beanie. They’re both functional and stylish, and I can mix and match them with almost any outfit.
If you plan to go hiking in Mount Rainier National Park or visit places like Leavenworth or Snoqualmie during your trip, you’ll definitely want to keep a beanie close by. These spots tend to be a bit cooler than downtown Seattle since they’re in the mountains and sit at higher elevations.
FAQs About Visiting Seattle in April
What is the Anticipated weather for Seattle in April?
Seattle in April can be a bit unpredictable, but that’s honestly part of the charm. You’ll get a mix of gray, drizzly days and unexpected bursts of sunshine, sometimes all within the same afternoon. Knowing what to pack for Seattle in April is a huge factor in making sure your trip is enjoyable!
I’d say the sun definitely starts to come out more the later into the month you get, but there is still a chance of sunny, clear skies in early April. Rain is still very much in the picture, although April tends to have fewer downpours and more of that classic misty Seattle drizzle.
Snow is extremely rare this time of year, especially in the city, so you won’t need to worry about that. If you’re heading to the mountains or places like Mount Rainier, you might still see some snow up high, but Seattle itself is more about damp sidewalks, overcast skies, and the occasional sunny break that has everyone running outside for a walk around Green Lake or Pike Place Market.
The main thing to note is that you should pack layers, a rain jacket, and also be ready for a little bit of everything. April weather here likes to keep you on your toes, that’s for sure!
Is It Worth Going to Seattle in April?
Honestly, April is such an underrated time to visit Seattle. The weather can still be a little moody, but that’s kind of the vibe here. If you’re prepared with the right gear, it won’t hold you back from enjoying the city. What makes April extra special is that it kicks off Seattle’s spring bloom, and the cherry blossoms are a huge part of that!
The University of Washington’s quad is one of the best spots in the city to see cherry blossoms in full bloom, usually peaking in late March or early April depending on the weather. If you time your trip right, you’ll catch the trees absolutely exploding with soft pink flowers. It’s seriously so stunning and definitely one of those “worth it” moments if you’ve never experienced it before.
Beyond the cherry blossoms, April is also when Seattle starts “waking up” again after winter. You’ll find fewer crowds than in the summer, cheaper hotel rates, and easier reservations at restaurants. Farmers markets start to pick back up, and places like Pike Place Market feel lively but not packed. It’s also the start of whale watching season and the perfect time to take a ferry ride or day trip without dealing with summer tourist crowds.
Is Seattle Rainy in April?
Yes, but not in the way people usually imagine. April definitely brings rain to Seattle, but it’s more of that classic Pacific Northwest drizzle than anything dramatic. You’re not likely to experience all-day downpours, but you will want to be prepared for light rain on and off throughout the day. It’s totally manageable if you pack the right gear.
One thing that surprises a lot of people is that April actually starts to bring more dry and even sunny days compared to the winter months. It’s not summer-level dry, but you’ll get little pockets of blue sky here and there, especially later in the month.
What to Wear in Seattle in April?
The key to dressing for Seattle in April is layers. Mornings can be chilly, afternoons might warm up a bit, and there’s always the chance of a light rain shower at any point in the day. I recommend starting with a base layer like a long-sleeve shirt or light sweater, then adding a waterproof jacket on top. You’ll want something that’s breathable and easy to take on and off as the weather shifts.
Seattle style is pretty casual, so you won’t need anything fancy either. Think cozy, functional, and rain-ready. If you’re warm and dry, you’ll be set! You can also read more about how to pack and prepare for a trip to the Pacific Northwest by checking out my blog post on the same topic.
What Are Some Things to Do in Seattle in April?
One of the best things to do in April is see the cherry blossoms at the University of Washington. The quad turns into this sea of pink, usually at peak bloom in early April, and it’s honestly so beautiful. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, and for good reason. If you’re in town while the blossoms are out, it’s worth going early in the day to avoid the crowds.
Pike Place Market is another great spot to check out if you’re visiting Seattle in April. You can grab coffee, shop the flower stands (which are extra colorful this time of year), pick up some handmade goods, or just people-watch while enjoying a pastry. My favorite spot to grab a croissant from in the Market is Le Panier!
If it’s raining, which it might be, this is the perfect time to check out one of Seattle’s many museums. MoPOP is super cool if you’re into music, movies, or anything pop culture. The Seattle Art Museum downtown is another solid option, and I also really like the National Nordic Museum in Ballard if you’re interested in Nordic history and culture.
April is also a great time to plan a day trip to the mountains or the coast. You could head to Mount Rainier National Park, Snoqualmie Falls, or even catch the tail end of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival if you’re up for a bit of a drive. The weather can still be a little unpredictable, especially in higher elevations, so check conditions before you go. But if you’re prepared, it’s a beautiful time to explore outside of the city!
For my full breakdown of what to do in Seattle in one day, make sure to check out this post for all the details! I’m a Seattle local and I made sure to share some of the best ways to spend a day in Seattle that takes you off the beaten path and showcases some of my favorite areas of the city.
What to Pack for Seattle Any Time of the Year
Are you planning to visit Seattle during another month besides April? Make sure to check out my month-by-month guides on what to pack for Seattle any time of the year! I also have several guides on what to wear and pack for the PNW more generally depending on the season.
Concluding Thoughts: What to Pack for Seattle in April
April in Seattle means blooming cherry blossoms, warmer weather than the past few months, and just a general “reawakening” of nature around the city. As a Seattle local with years of experience helping people get outfitted for Pacific Northwest weather, I hope this guide has helped you feel confident about what to pack for Seattle in April!
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