Visit Seattle, Washington
The Seattle Museum just opened a new expansion at the end of August 2024, so if you've been before, it'll be a new experience! At this aquarium you'll see many local sea creatures as well as animals from other regions.
Tucked below Pike Place is Post Alley, another street to explore by foot. Most notably, you can't miss the Gum Wall, one of the most amazingly disgusting pieces of art I've ever seen. Do not skip this! Also, while you're on Post Alley, check out Post Alley Pizza! Best slices in town.
This 1 hour harbor cruise is how I learned the most about Seattle during my time there, and I'm glad I did it on day 2 of my trip. You'll learn about Seattle's history, architecture, wild life, shipping, sports, etc.
Stop by Blackbird Bakery for your morning coffee and pastries. They have a good selection, including options for gluten free and vegan. The raspberry almond muffin was my favorite!
The ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island is just 35 minutes, and once you're there, you don't need a car. Consider renting a bike to see more. Shop, dine, hike, and explore the island where pickleball was invented.
Head to Discovery Park to experience Seattle's largest green area, with trails leading you through lush greenery to the beaches of Puget Sound. Don't miss the lighthouse once you're there. Pro Tip: Hunt for sea glass!
If you have just one day to visit Mount Rainier from Seattle, try the Skyline Loop trail. It's about 6 miles with a 1770 ft elevation gain, is easy to park at, and the start/finish are at the visitor center.
Grab some smoked salmon, salmon jerky, and more at Totem Smokehouse. I came back multiple times because the smoked wild king salmon was so good. I even took some home!
One of the most spectacular things to see in all of Seattle, come enjoy the work of artist Chihuly in this stunning exhibition. Stay for a glass blowing demonstration after you've enjoyed the art.
Seattle's tallest structure can be viewed from outside for free, or buy a ticket for around $40 to take the elevator to the top. Save money by bundling this ticket with the Chihuly Garden and Glass.
A perfect lunch spot right on the water, with a perfect view of the ferris wheel! Large selection of Washington oysters, seafood, and more. Gluten free and soy free options.
Here you can walk, shop, and dine for blocks while learning about what Seattle has to offer. Great to combine in a day with harbor activities, as it’s all within walking distance.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Northwest with a scenic flight above Seattle! did I mention it’s in a sea plane? you take off and land on Lake Union!
Experience the ultimate relaxation on the water with luxurious hot tub boats. Joystick operated, 2 hour rental, 1-6 people, Bluetooth speaker. I went solo and brought snacks- it was a party on lake Union!!!
If you're a foodie, this is the most fun thing to do in Pike Place! Savor Seattle takes you on a 2.5 hour food and history tour. You learn all about Pike Place, and get to try 8 foods. It's something I suggest doing at the start of your trip; it'll help you discover things you like!
The Ballard Locks are like an elevator for boats! Take this 2 hour, 1 way cruise that actually goes through the locks so you get to experience what it's like! Explore the iconic Ballard Locks and witness the fusion of Puget Sound, Lake Union, and Lake Washington on a unique scenic journey. Starts at pier 54 and ends at south lake union.
Explore the magical world of Maeve, a woman-owned sustainable, ethical chocolate company with 10% profits supporting cocoa farmers. Formerly Seattle Chocolate, this company offers an amazing 1 hour factory tour and chocolate Tasting where you learn all about how the cacao plant goes from bean to bar, all while enjoying lots of tasting chocolate!
Experience the best of Seattle at The State Hotel, a modern boutique hotel located near Pike Place Market and the waterfront, offering easy access to the city's iconic attractions.
Take the 3-hour Clipper Ferry to Victoria BC; for the day, or for the weekend! It's the perfect Seattle side quest. Staying for the weekend? Check in to Hotel Grand Pacific!
West Seattle has its own charm, and shouldn't be left out of your trip! The water taxi only takes about 10 minutes each way, and round trip costs $11.20. Taxis leave each direction hourly. Walk to Alki beach for the day, lots of beaching, eating, and the best place in Seattle to look for sea glass!
Smith Tower is a historic observatory, event venue, office space and world-famous tourist attraction offering tours and locally-inspired food and beverages in Seattle.
The ONLY half-day Seattle whale watching tour leaving direct from downtown! See transient orcas, humpbacks and wildlife on this guided tour.