Ready for some pomp + circumstance? It’s officially graduation season in Seattle, with UW + Seattle U hosting commencement ceremonies soon.

We know there are plenty of popular campus spots for photo ops (Harry Potter library, anyone?). But if you’re looking to get away from the college crowds, let us pro-pose some alternatives and nearby dining options. Smile + say cheese.

Alki Beach has great views of Elliott Bay. | Photo by SEAtoday staff

📷 Alki Beach

This is a bit of a trek from either of Seattle’s two main colleges, but the journey is worth it. There are miles of coastline that pass by some of the best vistas in the city, whether you’re looking back on the skyline or out to Elliott Bay.

Bites + drinks nearby: Marination Ma Kai, Harry’s Beach House

📷 Fisherman’s Terminal

To really get that Seattle seafaring vibe, a trip to the rustic area just north of Interbay makes for a great backdrop with docks + boats galore. Sailor caps optional.

Bites + drinks nearby: Figurehead Brewing, Chinook’s at Salmon Bay

The Fremont Troll is one of Seattle's quirkier landmarks. | Photo via Wiki Commons

📷 Fremont Troll

Got an arts major in your midst? Get to this funky sculpture under the Fremont Bridge — far enough away from campuses to make for a hassle-free photo op + close enough to a fab neighborhood with plenty of stuff to do.

Bites + drinks nearby: Revel, Local Tide

📷 Miner’s Landing

Located right near the Great Wheel and with sweeping views of the Sound, pics will really pop on Pier 57. Actually, it’s really it’s hard to go wrong with any place along the Waterfront — just watch out for construction the further south you go.

Bites + drinks nearby: Von’s 1000 Spirits, MARKET Seattle

📷 Occidental Square

Located in one of the most historic neighborhoods in the entire city, the tree-lined Pioneer Square park looks lovely in the summer and often has art + wine events on the weekends. Be sure to use that wide-angle lens if you have one.

Bites + drinks nearby: Yellow Butterfly Coffee Shop, Señor Carbón

Go to Pike Place after closing time for a chiller scene. | Photo by SEAtoday staff

📷 Pike Place

Sure, the clock + sign get the most play when it comes to classic Seattle scenery — but your best bet may be to head inside to the second floor landing where you can scope a view of the Waterfront in the background.

Bites + drinks nearby: JarrBar, Post Alley Pizza, Cafe Campagne, Maíz

📷 Sculpture Park

You can stroll along the nine-acre grounds belonging to the Seattle Art Museum for free, taking in all the striking sculptures like the Eagle (which can be framed against the Space Needle) + Echo — just within steps of the shoreline.

Bites + drinks nearby: AQUA by El Gaucho, Jerk Shack

📷 Seattle Center

We know the Space Needle sticks out as the most recognizable Seattle landmark, but don’t sleep on some of the many photogenic areas around Seattle Center — from the bright, red Olympic Iliad sculpture, to the PacSci arches, to the International Fountain, or to anything Chihuly-related.

Bites + drinks nearby: Citizen, Caffe Vita at KEXP

Seward Park has a walkable loop + picnic areas. | Photo by SEAtoday staff

📷 Seward Park

Views of Lake Washington and an amphitheater greet visitors at this popular picnic spot, which also has a leisurely 2.4-mile loop if you’re looking to stretch those legs a bit.

Bites + drinks nearby: Chuck's Hop Shop, Bent Burgers

📷 Volunteer Park

The greenery, lily pond, and the Conservatory at this Capitol Hill destination all go well with those robes + tassels. If you have time, swing by the Seattle Asian Art Museum for a family-friendly activity.

Bites + drinks nearby: Volunteer Park & Pantry

Have any other suggestions for photo ops? Add your favorites to the map below.

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