In early October, I took a trip to Washington State. I had the opportunity to visit Seattle and Mt. Rainer(you can read all about it here).In this post, discover the perfect two-day itinerary to make the most of your 48 hours in Seattle. I assure you this is enough time to explore and cross off top activities in this amazing port city.
Discover the Heart and Soul of Seattle
Seattle is a vibrant seaport city in Washington, located on the west coast of the United States. A couple of years ago, I took a trip to Portland, Oregon, and since then, I’ve been intrigued by the Pacific Northwest. Seattle is a dynamic city with a young, diverse population, innovative tech scene, and plenty of unforgettable activities.
The Perfect One Day Itinerary in Seattle
If I only had one day, this is how my itinerary would look:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
9:00AM | Explore local coffee shops and have breakfast downtown |
11:00AM | Seattle 101 walking tour |
| 1:00PM | Take in the waterfront then make your way to Pike Place Market (eat, drink, take in the city) |
6:00PM | Head to Kerry Park for sunset |
However, if you have more time you can add on from my Top Activities in Seattle list and personalize your itinerary!
Embark in the Journey: How to Get to Seattle?
If you arrive by plane, you’ll land at SEA-TAC Airport. From there, you can reach the city via taxi, Uber, or train. In 2022 we paid 46 USD for a taxi to our hotel and 55 USD for uber to the airport.
Where to Stay in Seattle?
Seattle has high lodging prices, but I found a great deal at CitizenM Seattle South Lake Union offers a unique and modern hotel experience tailored for tech-savvy and design-conscious travelers. It’s a modern hotel with compact rooms, which was perfect for my travel party of two.
The hotel’s location was excellent, about 12-minute walk from the space needle and 18-minute walk from Pike Place Market. Citizen M has other lodging options within Seattle and you can find them throughout the United States.
What to Pack for Your Trip to Seattle?
Seattle is known for its rain, so I recommend packing a rain jacket. Depending on the season, check the weather forecast before you pack. During my visit in the first week of October, we were fortunate to experience sunny weather, which made for a beautiful trip with blue skies and sunshine.
Top Activities in Seattle – What to do in Seattle
- Free walking Tour – learn about the history of the city, culture, and food spots
- Pike Place Market
- Space Needle
- Gum Wall
- Kerry Park
- Happy Hours and Restaurants
- Bainbridge island
Seattle 101 free walking tour: A Must-Do
If there is only one thing you can do in Seattle I would highly recommend the Seattle 101 tour! The guide had incredible energy(shout out to Joe) and provided a lot of fascinating information about the city. This tour happens daily at 11 AM and there is no better way to immerse in the emerald city than by a local.
This tour explores downtown Seattle, the beautiful waterfront, historic Pioneer Square, Totem poles, pubs, parks, and the city’s unique history and culture. The registration is through eventbrite and the cost is really free.99 Click on this link to take you straight to the registration, remember to bring cash or have venmo available to tip the wonderful guide.
Pike Place Market: A Must-See
After our Seattle 101 tour we kept on walking through the city and unexpectedly found ourselves in the iconic Pike Place Market. It was a lovely surprise, there were many interesting shops and food spots, it was endless shop after shop until we realized we were actually inside the market. For reference the address is typically associated with 85 Pike Street and is one of the most recognizable spots in the market; it is right at the entrance where the famous “Public Market Center” sign and clock are situated.
As someone who loves grocery shopping, Pike Place was a dream come true. It’s a bustling market with a variety of fresh produce, seafood, unique local products, and of course flowers.
Space Needle
The Space Needle is an iconic symbol of Seattle and offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and Puget Sound. It’s a must-visit landmark that provides a panoramic perspective of Seattle. Consider going early to avoid crowds and enjoy a meal at the rotating SkyCity restaurant for an unforgettable experience.
Gum Wall
Located in Post Alley under Pike Place Market, the Gum Wall is a quirky and colorful attraction covered in thousands of pieces of chewed gum. It’s a fun, albeit slightly gross, photo op that showcases Seattle’s unique character.
Kerry Park – Sunset heaven
For one of the best views of the Seattle skyline, head to Kerry Park. This small park on Queen Anne Hill provides a perfect vantage point for capturing stunning photographs, especially at sunset.
Happy Hours and Restaurants
- Umi Sake House: Renowned for having Seattle’s best happy hour for five years in a row, Umi Sake House offers fantastic sushi and a wide selection of sake. It’s located in Belltown and is a perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
- Sam’s Tavern: Situated on 9th Avenue, Sam’s Tavern is a great place for burgers and drinks. It offers a lively atmosphere and is known for its delicious food and friendly service.
- Le Panier: A charming French bakery with a cozy atmosphere, offering freshly baked pastries and breads that transport you straight to Paris.
- Anchorhead on Western Ave: A trendy coffee shop known for its artisanal brews and modern, relaxed vibe—perfect for a quick caffeine fix to feel your day.
- Seattle Dumpling Co: A casual eatery with a lively atmosphere, serving up delicious, handmade dumplings that are a treat for any dumpling lover.
- Pike Place Chowder: A bustling spot famous for its award-winning chowders, offering a taste of the Pacific Northwest in a friendly and vibrant setting.
- The Pink Door: A stylish and eclectic restaurant with a bohemian vibe, known for its Italian cuisine, rooftop patio, and occasional live entertainment.
- Rocco’s: A hip pizzeria and bar with a laid-back, urban vibe, offering creative pizza options and an extensive drink menu for a fun dining experience
Bainbridge Island
A short ferry ride from downtown Seattle, Bainbridge Island is a serene escape from the city. The island features charming shops, beautiful parks, and scenic waterfront views. Spend a day exploring its trails, wineries, and local eateries for a relaxing retreat.
Conclusion – 48 hours in Seattle
Seattle is a city brimming with life and activities. Whether you’re exploring Pike Place Market, taking a free walking tour, or just soaking in the views from Kerry Park, there’s always something to do. Make sure to plan ahead, pack appropriately, and enjoy all that Seattle has to offer.
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