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Best of Seattle

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

7 daysLocal gems
Trip length
3-day5-day7-day10-day
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·Pike Place Market & Waterfront Wonders

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  1. Shopping

    Pike Place Market

    Start early to beat the crowds and see the fish throwing in full swing.

  2. Food

    Original Starbucks

    Grab a coffee at the birthplace of the iconic chain.

  3. Sightseeing

    Seattle Great Wheel

    Enjoy panoramic views of the city, Elliott Bay, and the Olympic Mountains.

  4. Shopping

    Pier 57

    Explore the arcade, shops, and various dining options.

Day 2·Iconic Views & Urban Oasis

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  1. Sightseeing

    Space Needle

    Ascend for breathtaking 360-degree views of Seattle.

  2. Sightseeing

    Chihuly Garden and Glass

    Marvel at the vibrant and intricate glass art installations.

  3. Sightseeing

    Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

    Immerse yourself in music, sci-fi, and pop culture exhibits.

  4. Sightseeing

    Kerry Park

    Capture that classic Seattle skyline photo with Mount Rainier in the distance.

Day 3·Fremont's Quirky Charm & Locks

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  1. Sightseeing

    Fremont Troll

    Discover this iconic public art sculpture hidden under a bridge.

  2. Shopping

    Fremont Sunday Market

    Browse unique crafts, vintage finds, and delicious food (Sundays only).

  3. Activity

    Theo Chocolate Factory

    Take a tour and sample some delicious organic chocolate.

  4. Sightseeing

    Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (Ballard Locks)

    Watch boats pass between Puget Sound and Lake Union, and look for salmon in the fish ladder.

Day 4·Island Escape & Waterfront Charm

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  1. Transport

    Seattle-Bainbridge Island Ferry

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

  2. Shopping

    Downtown Bainbridge Island

    Explore charming shops, art galleries, and cafes.

  3. Sightseeing

    Bloedel Reserve

    Wander through diverse and beautifully manicured gardens.

Day 5·Discovery Park & Ballard

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  1. Activity

    Discovery Park

    Hike the trails, enjoy the quiet beaches, and take in incredible bluff views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.

  2. Food

    Fisherman's Terminal

    See working fishing boats and grab fresh seafood for lunch.

  3. Shopping

    Ballard Avenue Historic District

    Stroll through historic streets with independent boutiques, restaurants, and breweries.

Day 6·Underground History & Craft Brews

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  1. Activity

    Bill Speidel's Underground Tour

    Explore Seattle's buried history beneath the modern streets.

  2. Sightseeing

    Pioneer Square

    Wander through Seattle's oldest neighborhood, known for its Romanesque Revival architecture.

  3. Food

    Cloudburst Brewing

    Enjoy a local craft beer in a relaxed setting.

Day 7·Lake Union & Departure

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  1. Sightseeing

    Gas Works Park

    Enjoy unique views of the Seattle skyline and Lake Union, and watch seaplanes take off and land.

  2. Sightseeing

    The Museum of Flight

    Discover aviation history and see impressive aircraft (if time permits before departure).

Make it your own

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