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Best of Seattle

Ferries, fish markets, and mountain views around every corner.

10 daysLocal favorites
Best time to visit: July to September

Summer is the dry, sunny payoff after a long gray, rainy stretch from fall through spring. July to September is reliably clear and mild.

Day 1 · Waterfront Wonders & Iconic Views

  • 1
    Pike Place Market

    Experience the bustling heart of Seattle: fresh seafood, local crafts, and the famous flying fish.

  • 2
    Original Starbucks

    Grab a coffee at the very first Starbucks location and soak in the history.

  • 3
    Seattle Great Wheel

    Enjoy panoramic views of the city, Puget Sound, and mountains from this iconic Ferris wheel.

Day 2 · Elevated Perspectives & Artistic Encounters

  • 1
    Space Needle

    Ascend to Seattle's most recognizable landmark for breathtaking 360-degree views.

  • 2
    Chihuly Garden and Glass

    Immerse yourself in spectacular glass art and stunning garden installations.

  • 3
    Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

    Explore exhibits on music, science fiction, and pop culture in an architecturally striking building.

Day 3 · Emerald City's Green Oasis

  • 1
    Kerry Park

    Capture the classic postcard view of the Seattle skyline with Mount Rainier in the background.

  • 2
    Discovery Park

    Hike the trails and enjoy expansive Puget Sound views from the bluff in Seattle's largest urban park.

  • 3
    Ballard Locks

    Watch boats pass between Puget Sound and Lake Union, and spot salmon at the fish ladder.

Day 4 · Island Escape & Ferry Adventure

  • 1
    Seattle-Bainbridge Island Ferry

    Enjoy a scenic ferry ride across Puget Sound with stunning city and mountain views.

  • 2
    Winslow, Bainbridge Island

    Explore the charming downtown of Winslow with its boutiques, galleries, and cafes.

  • 3
    Bloedel Reserve

    Wander through diverse and artfully curated gardens on Bainbridge Island.

Day 5 · University Heights & Woodland Retreats

  • 1
    University of Washington

    Stroll through the stunning campus, particularly the Quad in cherry blossom season.

  • 2
    Gas Works Park

    Relax on the grassy hill and enjoy quirky industrial remnants with fantastic skyline views.

  • 3
    Woodland Park Zoo

    Discover diverse animal exhibits focusing on conservation and natural habitats.

Day 6 · Fremont's Quirks & Lakeside Charm

  • 1
    Fremont Troll

    Visit the iconic Fremont Troll sculpture lurking under the Aurora Bridge.

  • 2
    Fremont Sunday Market

    Browse unique crafts, vintage finds, and delicious street food at this lively market (if Sunday).

  • 3
    Lake Union Park

    Enjoy waterfront views, seaplane takeoffs, and explore the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI).

Day 7 · Museum Hopping & Downtown Delights

  • 1
    Seattle Art Museum (SAM)

    Explore a diverse collection of art from around the world in a beautiful setting.

  • 2
    Central Library

    Admire the striking modern architecture of the Seattle Public Library's flagship branch.

  • 3
    Pioneer Square

    Wander through Seattle's oldest neighborhood, known for its Romanesque architecture and art galleries.

  • 4
    Underground Tour

    Discover Seattle's buried history on a fascinating tour beneath the city streets.

Day 8 · Retail Therapy & Serene Gardens

  • 1
    Westlake Center

    Shop at a variety of stores and department stores in the heart of downtown.

  • 2
    Pacific Place

    Enjoy upscale shopping, dining, and a movie theater.

  • 3
    Volunteer Park Conservatory

    Escape into a lush Victorian greenhouse filled with exotic plants.

  • 4
    Seattle Japanese Garden

    Find tranquility in this traditional Japanese garden in the Washington Park Arboretum.

Day 9 · Coastal Bliss & Alki Adventures

  • 1
    Water Taxi to West Seattle

    Enjoy a scenic ride across Elliott Bay to Alki Beach with stunning skyline views.

  • 2
    Alki Beach Park

    Stroll, bike, or rollerblade along the sandy beach with views of Puget Sound and the Olympics.

  • 3
    Alki Point Lighthouse

    Visit the historic lighthouse marking the landing spot of Seattle's first white settlers.

  • 4
    Marination Ma Kai

    Savor delicious Hawaiian-Korean fusion food with incredible waterfront views.

Day 10 · Lakeside Leisure & Departure Prep

  • 1
    Washington Park Arboretum UW Botanic Gardens

    Enjoy a peaceful morning walk amongst diverse plant collections and tranquil pathways.

  • 2
    Madison Park Beach

    Relax by Lake Washington, enjoy the views, or grab a coffee from a local cafe.

  • 3
    Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

    Allow ample time for travel and security for your departure.

Make it your own

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