Seattle is the perfect city for a weekend getaway—whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor lover, or someone who just wants to soak in the city’s coffee culture and waterfront views. This Seattle travel guide covers all the essentials: what to do, where to eat, and the must-visit spots to make the most of your trip.
Having lived in the Pacific Northwest, I’ve been to Seattle a dozen times (maybe more?), who’s counting. Seattle, Washington is a place I’ve spent an afternoon in, long weekend, or just a night. No matter the time, it’s always a blast. In this post I share sights to see, things to do, activities for the whole family, AND most importantly, where to eat a delicious meal, (or three).
Table of Contents
- Travel Tips for Seattle
- Seattle Travel Guide Essentials Map
- Top Attractions in Seattle
- Where to Eat in Seattle
- Things to Do in Seattle
Travel Tips for Seattle
- Getting Around: Downtown Seattle is very walkable, and public transportation (buses, light rail) is easy to use. If you venture outside of the city center, I suggest driving, as that’s just easier. I will say, if walking is something you are comfortable with, when you are in the city center that is, I really suggest walking. The public transport isn’t as nice as you’d like to think it is.
Traveler Tip: If you are driving to Seattle, there are a few SUPER important things to note. Parking is expensive, and you will need to budget in valet parking at any hotel you stay at (that’s normally the only option). This can be around $20-30 per night. You also need to remember NOT TO LEAVE ANYTHING in your car. Seattle has had its rough moments, and there are parts that are not great. Safety is something you need to beware of during your trip entirely. If you need tips or more info on this, please send me a message! I am more than happy to answer any of your questions (safety or otherwise).
- Weather: It’s often rainy—so be sure to pack layers and a waterproof jacket.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for sunshine, fall for cozy vibes, and winter for fewer crowds. You’ll encounter rain no matter the time of year, but the spring is when the most rain will fall so you might want to plan around that.
Seattle Travel Guide Essentials Map
How to Use This Map: Click on each icon to discover more about each location. To save this map for future reference, click the star next to the map’s title. This will add the map to your Google Maps account. Later, open Google Maps, go to the menu, and select “Your places” to find this map!
Top Attractions in Seattle
Seattle is full of iconic sights that you don’t want to miss. Here are the best places to add to your itinerary:
Pike Place Market | The heart of Seattle, this historic market is perfect for browsing local vendors, watching the famous fish-throwing show, grabbing an iconic bouquet of flowers, and grabbing a bite (don’t forget to grab cookies at Cinnamon Works!). It’s a touristy area, but it’s truly one of my favorite places in the world for amazing food, unique shopping, and a vibe that’s unlike anything else.
Space Needle | The city’s most famous landmark simply because of its stunning 360° views. The Space Needle is an observation tower spanning 605 ft (184 m) into the air. You’ll take an elevator all the way up (yes seriously!) to the observation deck where on a clear day, you can see for miles.
Chihuly Garden and Glass | Right next to the Space Needle, this glass art museum is seriously mesmerizing. Even if you’re not a big art person, it’s worth a stop to check out the flowers and so much more blown from glass.
Outdoor Scenic Spots:
- Discovery Park: A massive park with forested trails and Puget Sound views.
- Gas Works Park: Great for picnics with a view of the city skyline.
- Green Lake: Perfect for a morning walk or jog.
- Kerry Park: If you’ve ever seen a classic photo of Seattle’s skyline, it was probably taken here. Sunset is the best time to go.
Seattle Waterfront | A must (I mean you can’t really miss it!). Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the Seattle Aquarium, or ride the Great Wheel.
Scenery of Downtown Seattle | Seattle is home to some incredible street art. Throughout the city, you’ll find murals, graffiti, and bold, colorful artwork painted on windows, walls, and even sidewalks. Each piece captures a different side of Seattle, from its music roots to its love for nature and community.
Where to Eat in Seattle
Seattle’s food scene is top-notch, with a mix of fresh seafood, international flavors, and cozy brunch spots. But please remember, as many places as you can, make reservations ahead of time!
Iconic Seafood Spots
- Taylor Shellfish Farms: Amazing shellfish and seafood platters caught that day!
- Jack’s Fish Spot: Located in Pikes Place Market you’ll find Jack’s Fish Spot where you have to order fish and chips. It is the best, and better than any fish and chips I’ve ever had in London. You can even order crab or fish to be sent home with you!
- The Walrus and the Carpenter (Ballard): A small, but fantastic spot for oysters.
Best Brunch & Casual Bites (Dinner Spots too!)
- Tilikum Place Café: A small cafe, with a big mission. Their ethos is built around community and connection, and you can feel the warmth the moment you walk in. Their brunch menu has something for everyone, but you’ve got to try the eggs Benedict and dutch babies.
- The 5 Point Café: Around the corner from Tikikum Place is a divey, all-day breakfast staple in the city where you can get classic American fare (think chicken fried steak, biscuits and gravy, and a classic cheeseburger).
- Ben Paris: On the corner of Pikes Place Market is Ben Paris, an American restaurant with an elevated twist. I would typically avoid a restaurant in a spot like this, but it’s a really great restaurant. It’s a little pricey, but everything I’ve tried on the menu (salads, mussels, pasta, and burgers) have all been fabulous.
- Off Alley: A casual spot where the menu is written on a chalkboard each day. They serve seasonal dishes created from locally sourced items and everything you order will be a new favorite dish.
International Eats
- Onibaba by Tsukushinbo: A must-visit for Japanese food lovers. It’s unfussy, and absolutely delicious. Make sure to make a reservation before you go! This is one place that I recommend you must-visit.
- Revel: Modern Korean-inspired dishes in Fremont. You’ve got to order the kimchi sampler, bulgogi steamed buns, and rice cakes.
- Carnitas Michoacan: Don’t let the outside of this spot deter you, it’s Mexican food at its finest. Their tacos al-pastor are fabulous, and it’s true comfort food.
Places to Drink (Coffee and Alcohol)
- The Taproom at Pike Place: A great spot for beer and an incredible view of the Seattle Wheel.
- Mountaineering Club: This is one of my favorite bars in Seattle for its decor and rooftop views of the city. You simply cannot miss this when you go!
- Citizen Collective: An indoor/outdoor spot in Seattle for food and drinks. They have a cool outdoor set-up with fire pits and laid back chairs for meeting up with friends, or meeting new friends while you are on vacation. It’s very chill (you might get a drink in a plastic cup), but I promise you it’s a fun spot.
- Olympic Bar: Inside the Fairmont Hotel in Seattle is a bar that you simply cannot miss. When you walk in you feel as if you are taken back in time – with the gold, marble, mirror, and splendor from floor to ceiling. It’s a bit of a Great Gatsby vibe, and there is even a speak easy! (Shh don’t tell anyone!).
- Starbucks Reserve Roastery: I suggest skipping the original Starbucks store at Pike Place Market and instead head to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery. It’s a high-end coffee experience beyond the standard Starbucks cup and it’s really, really good. You can even book a tour!
- Victrola Coffee Roasters: A great spot to taste Seattle’s small-batch coffee culture, located around the corner from Starbucks (lol).
Things to Do in Seattle
Now there is plenty of more to do than I can simply fit on this list, let alone all of the events that happen seasonally! However these are a few things that if, and when, you are in the Seattle area should have on your list.
Explore Ballard | Just outside of Seattle, a 20 min drive, is Ballard. Known for its trendy shops, craft breweries, and waterfront views. Stop by the Ballard Locks to watch boats pass through, visit the Sunday Ballard Farmers Market, and grab a beer at one of the local craft breweries like Reuben’s Brews.
Take a Ferry to Bainbridge Island | A scenic 35-minute journey offering a peaceful getaway. Once there, explore Winslow, the island’s charming downtown, and visit Bainbridge Vineyards for a relaxing wine tasting experience.
Explore Capitol Hill | A spot for trendy bars, live music, and LGBTQ+ friendly spots.
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) | A unique museum showcasing everything from music history to sci-fi and horror exhibits. Whether you love music, sci-fi, or horror, this museum is packed with cool exhibits and interactive experiences.
Seattle Aquarium | Located right on Pier 59, the Seattle Aquarium is honestly fun for all ages! They have an underwater dome, where you’re completely surrounded by 360-degree views of fish, sharks, and other sea creatures swimming all around you which is a really cool experience.
Seattle is a city full of charm, incredible food, and stunning views. Whether you’re here for a quick weekend trip to Seattle or planning a longer stay, this guide covers everything you need to make the most of your visit. Save this Seattle travel guide for your next Seattle adventure!
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