Best of Seattle
Ferries, fish markets, and mountain views around every corner.
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
- 1Pike Place Market
Experience the bustling heart of Seattle: fresh seafood, local crafts, and the famous flying fish.
- 2Original Starbucks
Grab a coffee at the very first Starbucks location and soak in the history.
- 3Seattle Great Wheel
Enjoy panoramic views of the city, Puget Sound, and mountains from this iconic Ferris wheel.
Day 2 · Elevated Perspectives & Artistic Encounters
- 1Space Needle
Ascend to Seattle's most recognizable landmark for breathtaking 360-degree views.
- 2Chihuly Garden and Glass
Immerse yourself in spectacular glass art and stunning garden installations.
- 3Museum 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
- 1Kerry Park
Capture the classic postcard view of the Seattle skyline with Mount Rainier in the background.
- 2Discovery Park
Hike the trails and enjoy expansive Puget Sound views from the bluff in Seattle's largest urban park.
- 3Ballard Locks
Watch boats pass between Puget Sound and Lake Union, and spot salmon at the fish ladder.
Day 4 · Island Escape & Ferry Adventure
- 1Seattle-Bainbridge Island Ferry
Enjoy a scenic ferry ride across Puget Sound with stunning city and mountain views.
- 2Winslow, Bainbridge Island
Explore the charming downtown of Winslow with its boutiques, galleries, and cafes.
- 3Bloedel Reserve
Wander through diverse and artfully curated gardens on Bainbridge Island.
Day 5 · University Heights & Woodland Retreats
- 1University of Washington
Stroll through the stunning campus, particularly the Quad in cherry blossom season.
- 2Gas Works Park
Relax on the grassy hill and enjoy quirky industrial remnants with fantastic skyline views.
- 3Woodland Park Zoo
Discover diverse animal exhibits focusing on conservation and natural habitats.
Day 6 · Fremont's Quirks & Lakeside Charm
- 1Fremont Troll
Visit the iconic Fremont Troll sculpture lurking under the Aurora Bridge.
- 2Fremont Sunday Market
Browse unique crafts, vintage finds, and delicious street food at this lively market (if Sunday).
- 3Lake Union Park
Enjoy waterfront views, seaplane takeoffs, and explore the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI).
Day 7 · Museum Hopping & Downtown Delights
- 1Seattle Art Museum (SAM)
Explore a diverse collection of art from around the world in a beautiful setting.
- 2Central Library
Admire the striking modern architecture of the Seattle Public Library's flagship branch.
- 3Pioneer Square
Wander through Seattle's oldest neighborhood, known for its Romanesque architecture and art galleries.
- 4Underground Tour
Discover Seattle's buried history on a fascinating tour beneath the city streets.
Day 8 · Retail Therapy & Serene Gardens
- 1Westlake Center
Shop at a variety of stores and department stores in the heart of downtown.
- 2Pacific Place
Enjoy upscale shopping, dining, and a movie theater.
- 3Volunteer Park Conservatory
Escape into a lush Victorian greenhouse filled with exotic plants.
- 4Seattle Japanese Garden
Find tranquility in this traditional Japanese garden in the Washington Park Arboretum.
Day 9 · Coastal Bliss & Alki Adventures
- 1Water Taxi to West Seattle
Enjoy a scenic ride across Elliott Bay to Alki Beach with stunning skyline views.
- 2Alki Beach Park
Stroll, bike, or rollerblade along the sandy beach with views of Puget Sound and the Olympics.
- 3Alki Point Lighthouse
Visit the historic lighthouse marking the landing spot of Seattle's first white settlers.
- 4Marination Ma Kai
Savor delicious Hawaiian-Korean fusion food with incredible waterfront views.
Day 10 · Lakeside Leisure & Departure Prep
- 1Washington Park Arboretum UW Botanic Gardens
Enjoy a peaceful morning walk amongst diverse plant collections and tranquil pathways.
- 2Madison Park Beach
Relax by Lake Washington, enjoy the views, or grab a coffee from a local cafe.
- 3Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
Allow ample time for travel and security for your departure.
Make it your own
Start from this curated plan — Runes copies it into your trips so you can tweak dates, budget, pace, and stops. Personalized to your style soon.