3-Day Ultimate Travel Itinerary for Seattle, Washington
Seattle, Washington
3 days
About Seattle, Washington
Experience the vibrant city of Seattle, Washington, a perfect blend of urban sophistication and breathtaking natural beauty. Explore iconic landmarks like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the historic Pioneer Square. Immerse yourself in the city's rich culture by visiting the Seattle Art Museum, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the Museum of Pop Culture. Enjoy a scenic ferry ride to the nearby islands or indulge in outdoor activities at Mount Rainier National Park. Savor the city's culinary scene, from fresh seafood to international cuisines. Don't miss the chance to visit the original Starbucks store and experience Seattle's renowned coffee culture. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture vulture, Seattle offers an unforgettable travel experience.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Cultural Immersion in Fremont and Ballard
Morning
Visit the Museum of Pop Culture, a modern museum dedicated to contemporary popular culture.
Lunch
Have lunch at a food truck in the Fremont neighborhood, known for its eclectic and creative vibe.
Afternoon
Take a boat tour of Lake Union and enjoy the scenic views of the city's skyline and houseboat communities.
Dinner
Dine at a restaurant in the Ballard neighborhood, famous for its Scandinavian heritage and seafood restaurants.
Evening
Experience Seattle's vibrant nightlife in the Belltown neighborhood, home to numerous bars and music venues.
Day 3
Art and History in Pioneer Square and International District
Morning
Explore the Chihuly Garden and Glass, an exhibit showcasing the studio glass of Dale Chihuly.
Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Olympic Sculpture Park, featuring large-scale sculptures and stunning views of the waterfront.
Afternoon
Visit the historic Pioneer Square, known for its Renaissance Revival architecture and art galleries.
Dinner
Have dinner at a restaurant in the International District, offering a variety of Asian cuisines.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Seattle Great Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel on the waterfront offering breathtaking views of the city.
Attractions in Itinerary (9)
1Space Needle
An observation tower in Seattle, Washington, a landmark of the Pacific Northwest, and an icon of Seattle.
2Pike Place Market
A public market overlooking the Elliott Bay waterfront in Seattle, Washington. The Market opened August 17, 1907, and is one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers' markets in the United States.
3Seattle Center
A premier urban park and arts and entertainment center.
4Museum of Pop Culture
The Museum of Pop Culture, or MoPOP is a nonprofit museum dedicated to contemporary popular culture. It was founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen in 2000 as the Experience Music Project.
5Lake Union
Lake Union is a freshwater lake entirely within the Seattle city limits. It is a popular spot for water sports, picnicking, and scenic views of the city.
6Chihuly Garden and Glass
An art museum in the Seattle Center showcasing the studio glass of Dale Chihuly.
7Olympic Sculpture Park
A park showcasing large, contemporary sculptures, with views of the city and waterfront.
8Pioneer Square
Seattle's oldest neighborhood, known for its Renaissance Revival architecture and the Underground Tour.
9Seattle Great Wheel
One of the biggest Ferris wheels in the United States. It was the tallest on the West Coast of the United States when it opened on June 29, 2012.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Salmon
Seattle is known for its fresh, locally sourced seafood, especially Pacific Northwest salmon. It can be prepared in numerous ways, but is often grilled, smoked, or served as sushi.
Coffee
Seattle is the birthplace of Starbucks and a renowned coffee city. The local coffee culture is strong, with numerous local roasters and specialty coffee shops.
Dungeness Crab
Another popular seafood in Seattle, Dungeness Crab is sweet and tender. It's often served steamed, in crab cakes, or in salads.
Geoduck
This large, native clam is a unique delicacy in Seattle. It's often served raw, sashimi style, or in chowders.
Rainier Cherries
Named after Mount Rainier near Seattle, these sweet cherries are a local favorite and are often enjoyed fresh during the summer season.
Craft Beer
Seattle has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous local breweries offering a wide variety of styles. IPA's are particularly popular.
Oysters
Seattle's cold, clean waters produce some of the best oysters in the world. They're often served raw on the half shell, or cooked in a variety of dishes.
Teriyaki
Seattle has its own style of Teriyaki, which is sweeter and less spicy than traditional Japanese Teriyaki. It's often served with chicken, rice, and vegetables.
Apple Cider
Washington State is famous for its apples, and this extends to cider. Seattle offers a variety of local apple ciders, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.
Clam Chowder
A popular dish in Seattle, the local version of clam chowder often includes geoduck or other local clams, along with potatoes, onions, and cream.
Pike Place Chowder
Named after the famous Pike Place Market, this award-winning chowder is a must-try. It often includes a mix of local seafood.
Washington Wines
Washington State is the second largest producer of premium wines in the United States. Seattle offers a wide variety of local wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Seattle, Washington is from late June to early September. During these months, the city experiences its best weather with warm, sunny days and minimal rain. This is also the time when the city hosts numerous outdoor events and festivals. However, it's also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter visit, consider the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October), when the weather is still pleasant and the city is less crowded.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 15 | Mon | Martin Luther King Jr. Day |
February 19 | Mon | Presidents' Day |
May 27 | Mon | Memorial Day |
June 19 | Wed | Juneteenth |
July 4 | Thu | Independence Day |
September 2 | Mon | Labor Day |
October 14 | Mon | Columbus Day |
November 11 | Mon | Veterans Day |
November 28 | Thu | Thanksgiving Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Light Rail
The Link Light Rail connects Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to downtown Seattle, with stops in popular areas like Capitol Hill and the University of Washington. It's a convenient and efficient way to get around the city.
Bus
Seattle's bus system, operated by King County Metro, is extensive and can get you almost anywhere in the city. The buses are clean, reliable, and run frequently.
Monorail
The Seattle Monorail connects downtown Seattle with the Seattle Center, home to the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and other attractions. It's a quick and scenic way to travel between these two areas.
Ferry
Washington State Ferries operate several routes in and around Seattle. The ferry is a great way to see the city from the water, and it can take you to nearby islands and peninsulas.
Bicycle
Seattle is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes and trails. You can rent a bike from one of the many bike share programs in the city.
Car Rental
Renting a car gives you the most flexibility to explore Seattle and the surrounding areas at your own pace. However, parking in the city can be expensive and hard to find.
Ridesharing
Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Seattle. They can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Seattle, especially in the downtown area. They can be hailed on the street, ordered by phone, or booked through an app.
Walk
Seattle is a walkable city, especially in areas like downtown, Capitol Hill, and Belltown. Walking can be a pleasant way to see the city, but be prepared for hills.
Streetcar
Seattle has two modern streetcar lines: the South Lake Union line and the First Hill line. They connect key areas of the city and are a fun way to get around.
Important information
Currency$ USD
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone911
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about Seattle, Washington as a first time visitor
1
Seattle is known for its rainy weather, so always carry an umbrella or raincoat with you.
2
Despite its reputation, Seattle doesn't have the highest rainfall in the U.S., but it does have many cloudy days.
3
The city is very walkable, but it's also hilly, so wear comfortable shoes.
4
Public transportation is reliable and extensive, including buses, light rail, and ferries.
5
Seattle is a coffee city, home to Starbucks and many other local coffee shops.
6
The city is very eco-conscious, so expect to see recycling bins everywhere and consider using reusable shopping bags.
7
Seattle is a foodie city with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients. Don't miss out on the seafood.
8
The city is bike-friendly with many bike lanes and bike-sharing options.
9
Tipping is customary in Seattle. The usual rate is 15-20% of your total bill.
10
Sales tax in Seattle is relatively high at 10.1%, so factor this into your budget.
11
Summer is the best time to visit for warm, dry weather. Average temperatures range from 75-80°F (24-27°C).
12
Winters are mild but wet, with temperatures usually between 40-50°F (4-10°C).
13
Seattle is a tech hub, home to companies like Amazon and Microsoft, so free Wi-Fi is widely available.
14
The city is known for its music scene, particularly grunge. Consider checking out a live show.
15
Seattle is a diverse city with many neighborhoods each having their own unique vibe. Explore beyond downtown.
16
The city is surrounded by water and mountains, so outdoor activities are popular.
17
Seattle is in the Pacific Time Zone and observes daylight saving time.
18
Smoking is banned in all public places in Seattle, including bars and restaurants.
19
The city is very dog-friendly, with many parks and businesses allowing dogs.
20
Seattle has a high cost of living, so be prepared for higher prices, especially for accommodation and dining.
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing that can be layered
Long-sleeved shirts
Sweaters or fleece jacket
Comfortable walking shoes
Rain jacket, windbreaker or umbrella
Pajamas/sleepwear
Underwear and socks
Gloves and scarf (if in winter)
Swimsuit (if planning to swim)
Toiletries
Travel-sized toothpaste and toothbrush
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Shampoo and conditioner
Soap or body wash
Makeup and makeup remover
Hairbrush or comb
Personal hygiene items
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Travel documents and essentials
Valid ID or driver's license
Passport (for international travelers)
Boarding passes and travel tickets
Hotel and car rental reservations
Travel insurance documents
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Credit cards and cash
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone and charger
Laptop and charger (if necessary)
Headphones or earbuds
Camera and charger
Power bank
Adapters and converters (for international travelers)
E-reader or tablet (for entertainment)
Miscellaneous items
Books or magazines
Travel pillow and blanket
Snacks and water bottle
First-aid kit
Hand sanitizer and wipes
Reusable shopping bag
Travel guide and map
Umbrella
Sunglasses
Weather Conditions
Seattle, Washington, is known for its mild, temperate climate, but it's also famous for its rainy weather. So, when planning your trip, it's essential to consider the city's weather patterns to make the most of your visit. The city experiences its warmest weather from June to September, with average high temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). This is the best time to visit if you want to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, boating, or exploring the city's many parks. However, it's also the busiest tourist season, so be prepared for crowds at popular attractions. Seattle's rainiest months are typically November through January. Despite the rain, temperatures during these months are relatively mild, usually hovering around 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C). If you don't mind the rain, this can be a great time to visit museums, art galleries, and indoor attractions. Just make sure to pack a good raincoat and waterproof shoes! Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are transitional seasons in Seattle, with temperatures typically ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). These seasons can be a great time to visit, as you'll avoid the summer crowds and the winter rain. However, the weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and be prepared for both rain and sunshine. Regardless of when you visit, keep in mind that Seattle's weather can change quickly. It's not uncommon to experience sun, rain, and overcast skies all in one day. So, always carry a light jacket or umbrella, even if the day starts off sunny. Lastly, don't let Seattle's reputation for rain deter you. The city actually receives less annual rainfall than many other U.S. cities, including New York and Atlanta. Plus, the rain contributes to the city's lush, green landscapes, which are a sight to behold. So, embrace the rain and enjoy everything this beautiful city has to offer!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 10° / 1° | January is the coldest month in Seattle, with occasional snow and rain. It's a great time for indoor activities like visiting museums and coffee shops. |
February | 11° / 2° | February is still chilly with a mix of rain and snow. It's a good time to explore Seattle's indoor attractions. |
March | 13° / 4° | March sees the beginning of spring with slightly warmer temperatures and less rain. It's a good time to start exploring outdoor attractions. |
April | 17° / 6° | April is a mild month with more sunny days, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing. |
May | 20° / 9° | May brings warm and sunny weather, ideal for exploring the city's parks and waterfront. |
June | 23° / 12° | June marks the start of summer with long, sunny days. It's a great time for beach activities and outdoor festivals. |
July | 26° / 14° | July is the warmest month in Seattle, perfect for boating, kayaking, and enjoying the city's outdoor concerts. |
August | 26° / 14° | August continues the warm, sunny weather, making it a great time to visit the city's parks and outdoor markets. |
September | 22° / 11° | September brings cooler temperatures and the start of fall. It's a good time to explore the city's beautiful fall foliage. |
October | 17° / 8° | October is a cooler month with more rain. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions and enjoy the city's vibrant arts scene. |
November | 12° / 5° | November is a chilly month with more rain. It's a good time to explore Seattle's coffee culture and indoor attractions. |
December | 9° / 2° | December is a cold and rainy month, perfect for enjoying Seattle's holiday festivities and indoor attractions. |
Did you know?
Places near by Seattle, Washington
Mount Rainier National Park
A national park with an active stratovolcano
San Juan Islands
An archipelago in the northwest corner of the United States
Leavenworth
A Bavarian-styled village in the Cascade Mountains
Olympic National Park
A national park on the Olympic Peninsula
Portland
The largest city in Oregon known for its parks, bridges and bicycle paths
Victoria
The capital city of British Columbia known for its British colonial past
Vancouver
A bustling west coast seaport in British Columbia
Spokane
A city in eastern Washington state known for its parks and ski resorts
