This Seattle itinerary includes the best things to do in Seattle, from iconic landmarks like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market to scenic day trips filled with mountains and charming towns.
Seattle is the perfect destination for travelers who love combining the city with nature. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending a full week, this guide covers the top attractions, tours, restaurants, and hotels to help you plan your trip.
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Best Things to Do on Your Seattle Itinerary
Visit the Space Needle & Chihuly Garden and Glass
One of my most memorable experiences when visiting Seattle was going to Chihuly Garden and Glass. You’ll find incredible glass artwork both indoors and outdoors. It’s located right next to the iconic Space Needle with sweeping views of Seattle.
Grab a Chihuly Garden and Space Needle combo ticket for the perfect afternoon.
Explore Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is one of Seattle’s most famous attractions and a must on any Seattle itinerary. Spend time walking through the stalls filled with fresh seafood, flowers, produce, and handmade goods.
Make sure to check out the famous fish market and browse the hidden corners of the market. You could also take a tasting tour of the market.
Some Pike Place Market favorites include:
- Market Grill – A great spot for fresh seafood sandwiches and casual market dining.
- Pike Place Chowder – Famous for creamy New England-style clam chowder and seafood soups.
- Beecher’s Handmade Cheese – Stop by for their famous cheese curds and the popular mac and cheese.
Take a Seattle City Tour
Taking a Seattle City Tour will allow you to learn more about the famous sites and history of the city. It’s also a great way to explore the city when you have limited time.
Relax at Alki Beach
I loved taking the ferry over to Alki Beach. It’s like a completely different world compared to downtown Seattle. It feels like a small beach town with cute shops and restaurants. It’s also the perfect spot to watch the sunset.
Add a Sunset Sailing Tour to Your Seattle Itinerary
One of the best ways to experience Seattle is from the water. A sunset sail tour around Elliott Bay offers beautiful views of the skyline, mountains, and Puget Sound.
Whale Watching
The waters around Seattle are known for incredible marine life, making a whale watching tour a popular day activity. Tours typically explore Puget Sound and nearby waters where you may spot orcas, humpback whales, seals, and other wildlife.
Learn Seattle’s History on an Underground Tour
Discover Seattle’s hidden past on an underground history tour. These tours take you beneath the streets of Pioneer Square to explore the remains of the original city after Seattle was rebuilt. This is a really unique activity to add to your Seattle itinerary.
Add the Museum of Pop Culture to Your Seattle Itinerary
The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is a must for music, movies, and pop culture fans. The museum features exhibits focused on music legends, science fiction, fantasy, film, and more.
Grab a Seattle City Pass to save money when visiting multiple locations.
Tour the Boeing Factory
A Boeing factory tour is a unique Seattle-area experience for aviation enthusiasts. Visit the massive factory and learn how some of the world’s largest aircraft are built.
The Fremont Troll: A Quirky Addition to Your Seattle Itinerary
Located under a bridge in the Fremont neighborhood, the Fremont Troll is one of Seattle’s quirkiest attractions.
Best Day Trips For Your Seattle Itinerary
Mount Rainier
A Mount Rainier day trip is one of the highlights of visiting Seattle. The park features incredible mountain views, wildflower meadows, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.
If you have the time, I highly recommend staying the night near Mount Rainier so you can spend 2 days exploring the park.
Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park makes an unforgettable day trip or overnight adventure from Seattle. The park has a variety of landscapes, including beaches, rainforests, mountains, and waterfalls.
Twin Falls and Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie Falls is one of Washington’s most famous waterfalls and is easily accessible from the city. Pair it with Twin Falls for a scenic day exploring forests, trails, and viewpoints.
Leavenworth Tour
Leavenworth is a charming Bavarian-style village that’s worth adding to your Seattle itinerary. A day trip here feels like stepping into a European town with gorgeous views, cute shops, and delicious food.
Where to Stay in Seattle
Here are some hotel options with a central location to add to your Seattle itinerary.
Final Thoughts on This Seattle Itinerary
Seattle is a city where you can combine urban adventures with incredible outdoor experiences. From exploring Pike Place Market and visiting the Space Needle to taking day trips to Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park.
Use this Seattle itinerary to plan your perfect trip filled with sightseeing, amazing food, waterfront views, and unforgettable adventures.