Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Starbucks Center, the art of glass-blowing, seafood, and coffee – Seattle is famous for about a zillion things, and all of them are well worth visiting. Also known as the Emerald City, this coastal city is located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Located between the Cascade Mountains and Puget Sound, the city is surrounded by Elliot Bay on one side, Lake Washington on the other side, and Lake Union in the middle. 

When planning a trip to Seattle, you may wonder: Is three days enough to explore the city? Seattle is a fantastic destination for a weekend or long weekend. Three days is sufficient time to check off everything on your list of “things to do in Seattle.”  

In this guide to planning a 3-day itinerary in Seattle, you'll visit the city's most beautiful neighborhoods, parks, and well-known places while still having enough time to wander and explore a bit more of its culture and history.

So, without any further ado, here's everything you need to get the most out of your 3-day Seattle itinerary.

Getting From the Airport to Seattle Downtown

Are you planning to fly to Seattle? You'll arrive at Sea-Tac Airport, the main airport in Seattle and the largest in Washington. The airport is just 14 miles from Downtown Seattle. Travelers have a few options to get there. You can rent a car, take a taxi or rideshare, or use a shuttle bus. If you're a solo traveler, a shuttle bus is a better option. If you don't mind using public transport, take The Link Light Rail from the airport to downtown Seattle. The ride takes about 30-40 minutes and costs about $3. 

Where to Stay in Seattle

It’s always best to book your accommodations before arrival. The best hotels are frequently booked far in advance. However if you haven’t done this, the very first thing you need to do is to find accommodation. It's no surprise that you want to stay close to all the main attractions and action. It is better to stay in a neighborhood close to Pike Place Market, like Downtown Seattle, Capitol Hill, or Belltown. 

Below are some specific recommendations to help you choose the perfect place to stay.

Recommended Hotels in Downtown Seattle

• Palihotel Seattle—This cozy boutique hotel is right across the street from the Elliott Bay Waterfront and Pike Place Market. It features 96 rooms, a comfortable lobby lounge, a restaurant, a bar, and a coffee bar.
• Thompson Hotel – A modern hotel with a sleek glass exterior that offers beautiful views of  Puget Sound. Other hotel facilities include 152 luxury rooms, suites, a restaurant, and a rooftop lounge.
• Kimpton Hotel Monaco Seattle – Premiere Downtown Seattle hotel with luxurious guestrooms and an on-site restaurant. Only a few steps from Pioneer Square, Pike Place Market, and right next to the Seattle Central Library.
• Inn at the Market – Top-notch hotel with an incredible staff, immaculate rooms, and a great view. Just a block away from Pike Place Market and the Seattle Waterfront.

Recommended Hotels in Belltown

Belltown is the best combination of location and attractions. It is right in the middle of the city, between Seattle Center on one end and Pike Place Market on the other. Here are some of the best Belltown hotels for your trip.

• The Ace Hotel – This mid-range option features larger suites and budget-friendly rooms with shared bathrooms. 
• Hotel Andra – A boutique hotel inspired by Seattle's Nordic heritage.
• Staypineapple Hotel Five – An affordable hotel with comfortable bedding, bathrobes, and complimentary bikes.
• The Belltown Inn – A budget-friendly hotel with a great location. 

Recommended Hotels in Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is a perfect neighborhood for young adults, food lovers, and hipsters. It is full of restaurants, bars, theaters, music venues, coffee shops, and an LGBTQ scene. It is the best area to stay for travelers who want to stay close to Downtown Seattle and major attractions.

Here are some recommended hotels in Capitol Hill: 

• Silver Cloud Hotel—This hotel is the best in terms of budget and location, only 2 miles from the Space Needle. 
• Gaslight Inn—This charming B&B is located inside a historic house. It features six rooms, fireplaces, skyline views, and private baths.
• Sonder At Solis – Instead of traditional hotel-style rooms, the hotel is full of apartments with laundry and kitchen.

After choosing your favorite neighborhood and booking a comfortable accommodation, it's time to officially begin your 3-day Seattle itinerary. Here we go! 

Day 1: Pike Place Market and Downtown Seattle

Start your first day in Seattle by visiting Pike Place Market and the Seattle Center – two of the most popular tourist destinations in the town. 

Morning: Pike Place Market

Pike Market generally opens at 9 am. I suggest getting there early, as queues and crowds start to build up quickly. Founded in 1907, the market is Seattle's true icon. It is also one of the oldest continuously running public farmer's markets in the US. Once you're at the market, it is important to orient yourself. At the market's north end, you'll find vendors selling artwork, clothing, handbags, and other souvenirs.

Walking towards the south end, you'll pass by flower stands, eateries, and fresh produce. The famous fish market, where you can see fish being tossed around, is also on this end. While you're at Pike Place, check out the Gum Wall, just below the fish market. 

Skip breakfast or eat lighter because you'll be sampling food throughout the market for lunch and breakfast. 

Do you want to make the most of your time at Pike Place Market exploring and eating? This popular Pike Place Market food tour is the best option.

If you prefer to visit the market independently, here are some of the top picks you must try. Be sure to eat in small bites to save space for everything in the market. 

• Ellenos Greek Yogurt: Start with some of the best Greek Yogurt you'll ever have, topped with fruits or other sweet toppings. The Marionberry Pie flavor is just delicious.
• Piroshky Piroshky Bakery: Stop by this famous bakery to try delicious Russian pastries with different fillings wrapped in flaky, buttery puff pastry and served out of a little hole in the wall. 
• Biscuit Bitch: Enjoy Southern-style biscuits and gravy with different toppings.  
• Daily Dozen Donuts: Great for hot cinnamon sugar donuts. 
• Rachel's Ginger Beer: Cool off with ginger beer in fun flavors like Blood Orange and Caramelized Pineapple. 

Once you have explored the market, which is probably getting more crowded, head to Westlake Station. Take the monorail to another popular destination: the Seattle Center. You can also travel to Seattle Center by Line 4 bus, Line 1 bus, taxi, or foot.

Pike Place Market Location: 85 Pike St, Seattle, WA

Afternoon: Seattle Center 

Seattle Center is located in the Lower Queen Anne neighborhood of Seattle, just two miles from Pike Place Market. The monorail will take you between the Space Needle and the Museum of Pop Culture, two of Seattle's major landmarks.

Museum of Pop Culture

This non-profit museum exhibits everything about pop culture, from music to TV. Its rotating exhibitions ensure that there is always something interesting to see.

Dale Chihuly Gardens and Glass

This museum and sculpture garden exhibits the stunning glass art of Dale Chihuly, the brilliant, forward-thinking glass artist. It has a glasshouse, eight galleries, and a beautiful garden, making it a great place to visit. 

Space Needle 

The Space Needle is Seattle's most iconic landmark. Although it is often crowded and always expensive, the views from the observation deck, 520 feet up, are worth it. Enjoy the sights of Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, Mount Rainier, and the downtown skyline. You'll love the new floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor viewing platforms, and spinning bar with glass floors. If the weather is cloudy or rainy, skip this observation tower and save your bucks because the views won't be as spectacular.  

To get a good discount on the entrance costs for all the above three attractions, I would recommend buying a Seattle CityPass online in advance. 

In addition to these highlights, there are plenty of family-friendly options, such as Artists at Play Playground, the Pacific Science Center, and the Seattle Children's Museum. 

After visiting these places, refill your energy with a coffee break at Caffe Vita. It is a pleasant spot to relax with comfy couches, high ceilings, and a real radio station. You can also grab a snack from one of the food carts around Seattle Center.

Seattle Center Location: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109

Evening: Olympic Sculpture Park and Seattle Waterfront

Olympic Sculpture Park

After spending some time in Seattle Center, walk about 10 minutes to the Olympic Sculpture Park. This public outdoor sculpture museum is managed by the Seattle Art Museum (SAM). It offers a combo of art, nature, and beautiful views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. Its notable sculptures include Richard Serra's large “Wake,” Jaume Plensa's “Echo,” Louise Bourgeois's “Father and Son,” and Alexander Calder's “Eagle.”

Olympic Sculpture Park Location: 2901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA

Seattle Waterfront

Continue your walk to the Seattle Waterfront, a must-see for first-time travelers. Highlights include:

• Seattle Great Wheel: The tallest Ferris wheel on the West Coast is located at Pier 57. You can ride it any time of day, but it is wonderful at night, covered in over 500,000 LED lights. 
• Seattle Aquarium: The aquarium is a perfect late afternoon activity. The last entry is 5 pm. Here, you can see marine life, Pacific coral reefs, and an underwater dome. They even have puffins.
• Harbor Cruise: Enjoy a narrated tour of Puget Sound, with sightings of the Space Needle, Mount Rainier, and the downtown skyline. In addition to seeing popular landmarks, you” learn about Seattle's maritime history.

Night: Dinner in Belltown

After the waterfront, it's time to wrap up your first day in Seattle with dinner in Belltown. Belltown is a great neighborhood for hanging out and staying close to downtown. It is packed with amazing restaurants and bars.

The best options for dinner are:

• Serious Pie: A casual yet upscale pizzeria with a baker's touch. They serve wood-fired pizzas with blistered crusts, sandwiches, and salads. 
• The Pink Door: A fun place for pasta and, on some nights, a burlesque show. Make a reservation in advance or try your luck as a walk-in.
• Lola: Popular for Mediterranean-inspired dishes with Greek mezes like pork meatballs, halloumi, chicken skewers, pita with dips, and fig kebabs. If you have time, brunch here is also great – try the made-to-order donuts.
• Rocco's: An Italian-American restaurant serving large NY-style pizzas with various toppings.

For a lively night, drink at:

• Bathtub Gin: A hidden speakeasy-type bar behind the gin shop with a cozy, Prohibition-era vibe. Their featured cocktails are Mana and The Judge, Aria de Capo, and Doting Dottie. They even have a bathtub.
• Seattle Beer Co.: Stop by Seattle Beer Co. for a great beer. They serve the best beers on tap in Seattle. Their tap list changes daily, with 20 beers and ciders. 
• Navy Strength: Come for exotic, tiki-style drinks in a tropical setting. 
• Cloudburst Brewing: Sample local craft beers straight from the source.

Day 2: Ferry to Bainbridge Island and Explore Seattle Neighborhood: Fermont

You've done the traditional tourist things on your first day. On the second day in Seattle, take a ferry trip to Bainbridge Island and explore the fun neighborhoods in Seattle: Fremont, and Ballard.

Morning: Half-Day Trip to Bainbridge Island

Start your Day 2 with a coffee from Elm Coffee Roasters. Then, head to the Seattle Ferry Terminal at Colman Dock to catch the ferry to Bainbridge Island. Click here to check the ferry departures and costs.

The 35-minute ferry ride offers beautiful views of Puget Sound. Once you arrive on the island, there are plenty of things to do within walking distance of the port. 

• Winslow: You'll spend most of your time in Winslow, a cute little town just a 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal. Browse unique shops, visit wineries, try food at local restaurants, and relax in cozy cafes.  
• Blackbird Bakery: Don't miss this local favorite for fresh, seasonal baked goods. 
• Harbour Public House: If you want a filling meal, stop by this popular waterfront restaurant with new American fare.
• Bloedel Reserve: Visit this beautifully maintained botanical garden on the island's north side. You can quickly get there by car or bus. Timed tickets are required for entrance, so make sure to buy them in advance. When you arrive, you'll see a traditional Japanese garden, a reflection pool, a moss garden, and more.
• Battle Point Park: Relax at this large community park with recreational activities, an astronomy center, and large meadows.
• Bainbridge Brewing: Sample a variety of craft beers at one of the most popular breweries on the island.
• Winery Tour: Lastly, rent a bike and visit local wineries. Some popular wineries are Eagle Harbor Wine Company, Eleven Winery, and Bainbridge Vineyards.

To make things easier, consider taking a guided tour that will highlight the history and main attractions of Bainbridge Island. As noon approaches, catch the ferry back to Seattle. 

Afternoon: Gas Works Park and Fremont

After your trip to Bainbridge Island, spend the afternoon exploring Fremont, one of Seattle's coolest neighborhoods.

Sunset at Gas Works Park

Start at Gas Works Park, a unique park on the site of the former Seattle Gas Light Company overlooking Lake Union. The park's industrial feed and stunning views make it the biggest draw in Seattle, especially at sunset. 

On a pleasant summer evening, arrive early to get a good spot on the grassy hill and watch the sunset behind the Olympic Mountains. Traveling with kids? They can fly a kite over the grassy knolls and play in a barn area. And don't worry – there is special parking for the convenience of day trippers.

After enjoying the sunset, continue walking to Fremont.

Exploring Fremont

Fremont, known as the “Center of the Universe” (as the famous sign says), has a little bit of everything that makes it an unmissable thing to do in Seattle. Visitors can enjoy waterfront views, outdoor activities, interesting architecture, shops, delicious food, and a touch of quirkiness. This neighborhood is small enough to explore walking. Here is what you shouldn't miss while you're there.

• Fremont Troll: If there is only one thing you can do in Fremont, it must be Fremont Troll. This giant sculpture under Aurora Avenue was constructed in 1990 by Steve Badanes. The troll is a fun homage to trolls under bridges of Scandinavian folklore. Snap some photos of the troll before leaving.
• Fremont Murals: If you have more time, check out the artsy murals near 46th Street and Bridge Way.
• Cafe Turko: Just a short walk from the troll, this Turkish restaurant offers delicious options for meat-eaters and vegans, including falafel, Turkish pies, and doner kebab sandwiches. 
• Schilling Cider: This cider bar provides a variety of ciders on taps. See their color-coded menu to select which cider fits your palate. You can even bring your own food and enjoy board games there.  
• Theo Chocolate: Do you or your kids love chocolate? Head to Theo Chocolate. Take a factory tour to learn how they make their chocolate, and visit the store to taste different chocolate varieties. NOTE: They close at 6P.
• Brouwer's Cafe: This bar is a great spot for craft beer lovers, offering a wide selection of beers on tap and in bottles. The friendly bartenders can help you find the perfect drink.
• Fremont Brewing: Lastly, while you're in Fermont, take a tour of Fremont Brewer's Urban Beer Garden. Sample a flight of their beers, including year-round favorites like Sky Kraken Hazy Pale Ale and seasonal selections like Space Danger IPA.

Night: Dinner in Ballard

After drinks in Fremont, head over to Ballard for dinner.

• The Walrus and the Carpenter: This top local seafood restaurant is known for its oysters, salmon, shrimp, and other delicious menu items.
• Un Bien: If you're craving a Caribbean roast sandwich, Un Bien is the place to go. They serve mouthwatering sandwiches with marinated meats.
• Hot Cakes: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a rich, chocolatey dessert from Hot Cakes before returning to your hotel for a well-deserved rest after a busy day.

Day 3: Discovery Park and Capitol Hill 

On your last full day in Seattle, you'll hike to Discovery Park, explore Pioneer Square, enjoy a sunset at Kerry Park, and finish your trip to Capitol Hill.

Morning: Discovery Park

Start the morning of your final day in Seattle with a coffee from Herkimer Coffee, one of the city's best coffee shops.

Then, head to Discovery Park in northwest Seattle for a morning hike. This city's largest park is located on the shores of Puget Sound in the Magnolia neighborhood. The park features 12 miles of hiking trails that lead to tidal beaches, wooded groves, serene meadows, and coastal bluffs. 

If you're short on time, take the 2.8-mile Loop Trail, which offers the best views of Puget Sound, beach access, and even a view of the Seattle skyline. Don't miss the historic West Point Lighthouse, where you might spot a bald eagle.

If hiking isn't your thing, Discovery Park also has a cultural center, a tennis facility, a zip line, and a kids' play area with climbing structures and swings.

After your hike, it's time for a filling brunch. If it's the weekend, go to Tilikum Place Cafe, famous for its Dutch babies. Be sure to make reservations in advance. If it's a weekday, try Geraldine's Counter for a classic brunch in a cozy neighborhood.

When you finish brunch, take a taxi to Pioneer Square, about 7 miles from Discovery Park.

Afternoon: Pioneer Square

Pioneer Square is Seattle's oldest neighborhood, dating back to 1852. 

Start at Pioneer Park, where you can see the historic pergola, a Tlingit totem pole, and a fountain with a bust of Chief Seattle. Then, grab a Trail to Treasure map to learn about the Klondike Gold Rush and the area's history. Make sure to visit the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and Museum. There are a few other parks nearby, such as Waterfall Garden Park, Occidental Square Park, and City Hall Park. 

After exploring the history, check out Pioneer Square's modern charms, including murals and a vibrant art scene. If you're in town on the first Thursday of the month, you can also enjoy the Art Walk.

Seattle Underground Tour

While in Pioneer Square, take the Seattle Underground Tour. This historical tour will take you through underground sidewalks and storefronts that were buried when the city was rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1889.

The 75-minute guided tour starts beneath Doc Maynard's Public House and takes you through historic Pioneer Square. 

This tour is the only way to explore the famous Seattle Underground tunnels. Along the way, the guides share hilarious stories and secrets from Seattle's past. It's a history lesson with plenty of laughs!

Evening: Sunset at Kerry Park

As the day winds down, grab an Uber or taxi and head to Kerry Park about 30 minutes before sunset. This small strip of grass is on the south slope of Queen Anne Hill. From here, you can see the Elliott Bay, Space Needle, and even Mount Rainier on a clear day. It's a short walk up the hill, but the view is worth it.

After enjoying the view, stop by Toulouse Petit for a fantastic Cajun/Creole happy hour. If you're on a budget, Dick's Drive-In is a great alternative for a quick, classic Seattle burger.

Kerry Park Location: 211 W Highland Dr. Seattle, WA

Night: Capitol Hill  

After enjoying the sunset, head over to Capitol Hill to round out your 3-Day trip to Seattle. Capitol Hill is eccentric, diverse, and LGBTQ+ friendly, with laid-back coffee spots, a creative arts scene, and tons of indie shops. It's about a 20-minute (uphill) walk from downtown.

While there, visit the Volunteer Park and the Seattle Asian Art Museum. But the real magic of Capitol Hill lies in its mix of shopping, eating, and drinking. Here are some of the unmissable places on Capitol Hill. 

• Elliott Bay Book Company: A must-stop for book lovers, this multilevel bookstore often hosts book signings and events. Support independent bookstores!
• Atulea: If you prefer tea, try Atulea's milk teas, bubble teas, or matcha lattes. The Ube Matcha is a standout.
• Starbucks Reserve Roastery: Coffee lovers will enjoy this more impressive spot than the original Starbucks at Pike Place. Explore multiple coffee bars and even try an espresso martini flight.
• Tavolàta: For dinner, enjoy fresh pasta at Tavolàta, especially during happy hour. Don't miss the spicy sausage rigatoni and pappardelle.
• Kedai Makan: Savor authentic Malaysian street food at Kedai Makan, where the nasi goreng is a must-try.
• Oddfellows Cafe: This stylish spot offers American farm-to-table dishes with a twist. The courtyard is a great place to enjoy your meal.
• Unicorn: For a quirky experience, visit Unicorn, an eccentric carnival-themed bar and arcade.
• Pie Bar: End your night with a slice of homemade pie at Pie Bar. The space is small, but the pie is incredible.

Seattle Travel Tips & FAQs

What to Pack for a 3-Day Seattle Trip?

• Essentials: Bring a light jacket or an umbrella since rain can happen unexpectedly. It's good to have one with you, just in case.
• Summer Packing: Comfortable walking shoes, jeans, and a light top are great for summer. Mornings and evenings can be cool, so pack a light jacket or flannel—a Seattle staple—as daytime temperatures can also be a bit chilly.
• Winter Packing: In winter, wear boots, jeans, a sweater, a warm parka, and a scarf. These will keep you cozy in the colder weather.

Is Seattle Safe to Visit?

Seattle is generally a safe place to visit and explore, especially in the main tourist areas like Seattle Center, the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the waterfront area.  Some of the safest neighborhoods in Seattle include Magnolia, Phinney Ridge, Columbia City, and West Seattle. 

However, be careful when visiting the International District, First Hill, Pioneer Square, King County Courthouse, and the area between Pike and Pine Streets, as these areas have higher risks of mugging and violence. Following simple safety tips can make your Seattle trip more enjoyable and safer.  

How to Get Around Seattle?

The most common way to get around Seattle is by public transport, especially if you want to save money on your trip. The city's public transportation system includes ferries, buses, light rail, and street cars. 

The Seattle Monorail is the cheap option to get from downtown to Seattle Center. It runs often, every 10 minutes, and a one-way ticket costs only $3.50, and you can pay the fare through your ORCA card (a reloadable card for $3). If you want to explore beyond the Seattle Center, you can use a city bus, taxi, or street car. 

Seattle is also very bike-friendly, which is cheaper than taking a taxi. If you want to go out on hikes or day trips, rent a car from Discover Car, although it is a slightly expensive option.

When is the Best Time to Go to Seattle?

Seattle is known for its cloudy days and rain, as you might have seen in movies. So, if you catch a sunny day, it will be a treat. However, the best time to go to Seattle is from June to October. June, July, and August are the driest months.

Summers are not too hot because of the cool breezes from Puget Sound. If you love attending festivals and events, this is the best season to go. In April, Seattle hosts the Skagit Valley Tulip and the Seattle Cherry Blossom Festival. June brings the Seattle International Film Festival. In July, you can catch the Seattle International Beerfest. It is also the peak season, so expect high accommodation rates.

Fall is beautiful in Seattle, with colorful leaves and crisp air. January is the coldest month, with day temperatures around 46 Fahrenheit. Snow is rare. 

So whenever you visit, be sure to pack a rain jacket and an umbrella—though you won't catch locals using one. They just stroll through the rain without a care!

Final Thoughts 

So, there you have it – a perfect 3-day itinerary in Seattle. Now you will know that 3 days are just enough to scratch the surface of this amazing city. From spending your first day exploring the popular tourist attractions in Seattle to taking a day trip to Bainbridge Island and exploring Fremont and Ballard on day 2, there is really so much to do here. Your final day in the Emerald City includes hiking to Discovery Park, sunset at Kerry Park, and dinner in Capitol Hill. 

Will you be following this 3-day trip to Seattle? What are you excited about? Let us know in the comments below. 

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