Best of Seattle

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

5 daysLocal favorites

Trip length

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 · Emerald City Icons & Waterfront Wonders

1
Pike Place Market
Seattle's original farmers market. Watch the fish throwing, grab a coffee at the first Starbucks, and explore the lower levels.
2
Seattle Great Wheel
Enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline, Puget Sound, and the Olympic Mountains.
3
Waterfront Park
Stroll along the piers, enjoy the sea air, and watch the ferries depart.
4
Pioneer Square
Seattle's oldest neighborhood, known for its Romanesque Revival architecture, art galleries, and historic charm.

1
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Immerse yourself in stunning glass art installations. Book tickets in advance.
2
Space Needle
Ascend for iconic 360-degree views of the city, Puget Sound, and mountains.
3
Kerry Park
The classic postcard view of Seattle, featuring the Space Needle, city skyline, and Mount Rainier. Go at sunset for the best light.
4
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
Explore exhibits on music, science fiction, and pop culture in a unique architectural setting.

1
Washington State Ferries - Seattle to Bainbridge Island
Enjoy a scenic ferry ride across Puget Sound with stunning views of the city and mountains. Grab a window seat!
2
Bainbridge Island "Downtown" Winslow
Explore charming shops, art galleries, and waterfront views in this quaint island town.
3
Bloedel Reserve
A stunning 150-acre public garden and forest preserve offering diverse landscapes.
4
Old Town Mukilteo
A historic waterfront community with a lighthouse, ferry terminal, and views of Whidbey Island.

1
Fremont Troll
A unique public art installation nestled under the Aurora Bridge – a perfect photo op.
2
Fremont Sunday Market
A vibrant weekly market featuring local artists, craftspeople, and street food (Sundays only, otherwise explore Fremont's shops).
3
Gas Works Park
Enjoy fantastic views of the Seattle skyline across Lake Union, with historic gas production structures as a backdrop.
4
Ballard Locks (Hiram M. Chittenden Locks)
Watch boats pass between Puget Sound and Lake Union, and observe migrating salmon at the fish ladder.

1
Discovery Park
Seattle's largest urban natural park, offering miles of trails, beach access, and stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
2
Discovery Park Lighthouse (West Point Lighthouse)
Hike to this picturesque lighthouse for incredible views of the water and mountains.
3
Golden Gardens Park
Relax on the sandy beach, enjoy a bonfire (in designated pits), and watch the sunset over the Olympic Mountains.

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.