Best of Seattle

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

5 daysLocal gems

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.

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

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

Transport
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!
Shopping
Bainbridge Island "Downtown" Winslow
Explore charming shops, art galleries, and waterfront views in this quaint island town.
Sightseeing
Bloedel Reserve
A stunning 150-acre public garden and forest preserve offering diverse landscapes.
Sightseeing
Old Town Mukilteo
A historic waterfront community with a lighthouse, ferry terminal, and views of Whidbey Island.

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

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

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.