Seattle Usa 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Seattle Itinerary for Tourists:

This itinerary offers a mix of classic Seattle experiences and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Feel free to customize it based on your interests!

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Seattle is known for its rainy weather, so be prepared with an umbrella and waterproof jacket. Even on sunny days, the temperature can change quickly, so layers are key.
  • Currency: US Dollar (USD)
  • Transportation: Public transportation is excellent in Seattle. Utilize the bus, light rail, and ferry systems for efficient travel. Consider a multi-day ORCA card for unlimited rides.

Day 1: Iconic Seattle & Coffee Culture

  • Morning: Start your day at Pike Place Market (Pike Place Market) - a must-see for any Seattle visitor! Explore the fresh produce, seafood, flowers, and unique crafts.
  • Afternoon: Experience Seattle’s iconic Space Needle. Take the elevator to the top for stunning views of the city.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Ivar’s Seafood Bar on the waterfront.

Things to do:

  • Pike Place Market: Wander through the stalls, watch the fishmongers throw salmon, and grab a coffee at the original Starbucks (it’s still there!) for a quintessential Seattle experience.**
  • Visit the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP): Explore music history and pop culture at this quirky museum.

Where to eat:

  • Breakfast/Lunch: Enjoy the hustle and bustle of Pike Place Market while grabbing fresh seafood, local produce, or delicious pastries from one of the many bakeries in the area.
  • Dinner: Pike Place Chowder (for a classic Seattle chowder experience), The Pink Door (Italian-American cuisine with a view), Beecher’s Handmade Cheese (for a cheese tasting and to see the Pike Place Market cheesemakers toss cheesewheels)

Day 2: Exploring History & Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Museum of Flight, one of the largest aerospace museums in the world.
  • Afternoon: Explore Seattle’s history at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, which offers tours and exhibits on the gold rush era.
  • Evening: Take a ferry ride across Puget Sound for beautiful views and a chance to explore another neighborhood.

Day 3: Waterfront & Seafood Delights

  • Visit the Seattle Aquarium: Explore marine life and learn about the Pacific Northwest’s underwater ecosystems.
  • Enjoy a scenic walk on the Seattle waterfront: Take in the sights of Puget Sound, including the Olympic Sculpture Park (sculpture park) and the iconic Seattle Wheel.

Day 4: Pike Place Market & Waterfront Dining

  • Explore the Seattle Aquarium: Discover diverse marine species while enjoying a delicious lunch at The Honeybee (restaurant).
  • Experience the vibrant waterfront dining scene: Enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views of the Puget Sound from the bustling market.

Things to eat:

  • Pike Place Chowder: Indulge in their award-winning clam chowder, with various options to choose from!
  • Seafood: Seattle is known for its fresh seafood, so try to find a restaurant serving the local catch, like salmon, oysters, or crab.

Day 5: Pike Place Market & Local Flavor

  • Explore the vibrant culture of Seattle: Visit the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) for a glimpse into the city’s past and present.
  • Enjoy a delicious meal at Ivar’s Acres of Clams: This classic restaurant offers fresh seafood and stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.

Day 6: Coffee & Culture

  • Visit a local coffee shop: Experience Seattle’s renowned coffee culture with a cup at one of the many independent roasters around the city.
  • Try a coffee flight: Many cafes offer these, allowing you to sample a variety of roasts and brewing methods.
  • Explore the Fremont neighborhood: Discover quirky shops and art installations along the way

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Green Tortoise Hostel (hostel), The Maxwell Hotel (boutique hotel with a vintage vibe).
  • Mid-Range: The Ace Hotel, Hotel Andra (stylish hotel in Belltown)
  • Luxury: The Fairmont Olympic Hotel, The Four Seasons Hotel Seattle (high-end option with breathtaking views).

Stay in your budget: Seattle offers a range of accommodations to suit every wallet. Consider affordable hotels like the Hotel Andra or the Kimpton Palladian Hotel for a more luxurious experience.

For the adventurous foodie:

  • Pike Place Chowder: Enjoy a bowl of their delicious and award-winning clam chowder while exploring the market.
  • Try a Seattle food tour: Explore different neighborhoods and cuisines with a guided tour that includes stops at local food vendors, restaurants, and markets.

Other things to consider:

  • Visit during the summer months (June - September) for warmer weather and longer days.

  • Purchase an Orca Card: This card allows you to use Seattle’s public transportation system (buses, ferries, light rail).

  • Consider a day trip to the Olympic Mountains: Enjoy stunning views of nature, hiking trails, and waterfalls.

For the adventurous foodie:

  • Visit Pike Place Chowder: This popular spot is known for its fresh seafood and unique chowder flavors.
  • Try a Seattle food tour: There are many great food tours available in the city.

Enjoy a delicious bowl of clam chowder at Pike Place Market:

  • Experience the freshest seafood: The market is a great place to get fresh seafood, and some of the best places for this include:

    • Pike Place Chowder (restaurant): Sample their award-winning clam chowder - it’s a local tradition!
    • The Pike Brewing Company: Take a tour and learn about the craft brewing process.

  • Explore other neighborhoods:

    • Pike Place Market: While you are there, visit the original “Starbucks” store or grab a bite at one of the many restaurants that showcase the fresh ingredients and seafood Seattle is known for.
    • Belltown: Enjoy a coffee crawl through this vibrant neighborhood, trying different roasts and brews from local cafes.

Embrace the Quirky:

  • Have fun with unique experiences:

    • Dick’s Drive-In: A classic Seattle spot for late-night eats.
    • The Gum Wall: Experience a quirky, yet iconic landmark in the Pike Place Market.

  • Taste the local flavors:

    • Pike Place Market: Visit a variety of food vendors and sample fresh seafood from Pike Place Fish Market, enjoy a local brew at a nearby brewery while exploring the diverse culinary scene.
    • Pike Place Chowder (restaurant): Enjoy the famous clam chowder and other delicious dishes.

Other things to do:

  • Visit the Space Needle: Enjoy the view of the city from above and take in the iconic architecture.

Day Trip Ideas:

  • Explore the Olympic Mountains: Take a day trip to the Olympic Mountains and enjoy the breathtaking scenery, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
  • Discover the San Juan Islands: Hop on a ferry and explore the beautiful San Juan Islands.

Enjoy the beauty and taste of fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant:

  • Pike Place Market: Enjoy a fresh seafood meal with a view.

Things to consider for your trip:

  • The weather:
  • Your budget: Seattle is known for its diverse culinary scene, so you can find something to suit every budget.
  • Accommodation options: Choose an accommodation option that reflects the purpose of your visit and makes it easier to explore the area.

Tips:

  • Book a table in advance: The waterfront is a popular destination, especially the iconic restaurants.

  • Explore Pike Place Market: Don’t miss the vibrant atmosphere of Pike Place Market. Try the fresh fish at Pike Place Fishmongers and enjoy the diverse offerings from other vendors.

  • Pack an umbrella: The weather in Seattle can be unpredictable.

  • Wear layers: Temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.

  • Explore Pike Place Market’s many treasures: Try a variety of fresh seafood options, explore Pike Place Market’s vibrant atmosphere and enjoy the unique offerings available.

  • Enjoy the fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant:

    • Pike Place Market: Try a bowl of their famous clam chowder and experience the freshest flavors.