Seattle, USA-2-day-itinerary

Seattle Itinerary: Emerald City Exploration (2 Days)

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Green Tortoise Hostel Seattle, The Maxwell Hotel
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Andra, The Edgewater
  • Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Seattle, The Fairmont Olympic Hotel

Transportation:

  • Public Transportation: Seattle has an excellent public transportation system including buses, light rail, and ferries. Purchase an ORCA card for easy payment.
  • Walking: Many attractions are within walking distance of each other in downtown Seattle.
  • Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are readily available.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Seattle is known for its rain, so pack accordingly with waterproof outerwear.
  • Coffee Culture: Embrace the city’s vibrant coffee scene. Try local favorites like Starbucks (original location!), Victrola Coffee Roasters, or Stumptown Coffee Roasters.
  • Outdoor Activities: Even if it rains, there are plenty of indoor activities and covered spaces to enjoy.

Day 1: Iconic Seattle

  • Morning: Start your day with a visit to Pike Place Market, Seattle’s iconic public market. Grab breakfast at Lowell’s Restaurant or Daily Dozen Doughnut Company. Explore the vibrant stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, flowers, and crafts.

  • Afternoon: Head to the waterfront and take a ferry to Bainbridge Island for stunning views of the Seattle skyline. Walk around Winslow town center, explore the boutiques, and have lunch at Doc’s Marina Grill. Return to Seattle by ferry in the late afternoon.

  • Evening: Visit the Space Needle for panoramic views of the city at sunset. Afterwards, enjoy dinner at Ivar’s Seafood Bar on Pier 54 for fresh seafood with waterfront views.

Day 2: Culture and Nature

  • Morning: Explore the vibrant art scene in the Seattle Art Museum (SAM) or the Frye Art Museum (free admission).

  • Afternoon: Take a short drive to Kerry Park for breathtaking views of the city skyline, Elliott Bay, and Mount Rainier. Afterward, head to the Ballard Locks to watch boats pass through the canal connecting Puget Sound and Lake Washington.

  • Evening: Enjoy a unique dining experience at The Pink Door in Pike Place Market, known for its Italian cuisine and burlesque entertainment. Alternatively, try Dick’s Drive-In for a classic Seattle burger experience.

Additional Tips:

  • Seattle CityPASS: Consider purchasing a CityPASS for discounted admission to major attractions like the Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), and Woodland Park Zoo.

  • Free Activities: Enjoy free concerts at Gas Works Park during summer months. Explore Olympic Sculpture Park for stunning art installations along the waterfront.

  • Shopping: Pike Place Market is a great place to find souvenirs and local crafts. Check out the trendy boutiques in Capitol Hill or Ballard.

Enjoy your Seattle adventure!