If you’re looking for a 3-day Seattle itinerary, you’ve come to the right place. From stunning landscapes to bustling markets, this vibrant city has it all.
Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of nature by visiting the iconic Space Needle, where you can witness panoramic views of the city and its surrounding landscapes. Indulge in the city’s thriving food scene, from the fresh seafood at Pike Place Market to the innovative food shops on a foodie tour.
Pike Place Market
For the art enthusiasts, explore the Chihuly Garden and Glass—the renowned glass artist’s exhibit, showcasing stunning sculptures amidst a beautiful botanical garden. Take a trip to the moody yet enchanting gaslit streets of Pioneer Square, known for its historic buildings and underground tunnels.
Get acquainted with Seattle’s rich cultural heritage by visiting MoPOP, which traces the importance of popular culture and the influence from the Pacific Northwest region.
With a myriad of activities and attractions, this 3-day Seattle itinerary and adventure guide will ensure that you make the most of your time in this Emerald City. Let’s dive in and discover the magic that awaits!
Day 1: Exploring Downtown Seattle: Pike Market Foodie Tour and Chihuly Gardens
Seattle’s downtown core is a vibrant hub teeming with diverse culinary delights and captivating cultural experiences. Begin your 3-day adventure by immersing yourself in the bustling energy of Pike Place Market, a beloved landmark that has been at the heart of the city since 1907. As you wander through the iconic rows of stalls, the air will be filled with the tantalizing aromas of freshly caught seafood, artisanal baked goods, and locally-sourced produce.
Embark on a chef guided foodie tour to uncover the market’s hidden gems and savor the flavors that have made this place a mecca for food enthusiasts. Indulge in a delectable array of samples, from the flakiest, most buttery croissants to the award winning chowder. As you navigate the vibrant stalls, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with the passionate vendors, learning about their craft and the stories behind their exceptional offerings as well as the history of the market place. We tasted everything from waffles on a stick, tacos, maple salmon jerky and the famous chowder.
After tasting the culinary delights of Pike Place, venture to the Chihuly Garden and Glass, a stunning exhibition that showcases the breathtaking work of renowned glass artist, Dale Chihuly. Step into a world of vibrant colors and mesmerizing forms as you explore the indoor galleries and the lush outdoor gardens, where Chihuly’s sculptures seamlessly integrate with the natural landscape. Marvel at the intricate glass creations that seem to defy gravity, casting a spell of wonder and awe over all who behold them. Take your time to immerse yourself in the beauty of this one-of-a-kind artistic experience, allowing the enchanting displays to captivate your senses and ignite your imagination.
Chihuly Garden, Seattle
Day 2: Discovering Mount Rainier National Park
On your second day in Seattle, embark on an unforgettable journey to the majestic Mount Rainier National Park, a natural wonder that lies just a short drive from the city. As you leave the urban landscape behind, the road will wind its way through lush forests and rolling hills, offering breathtaking vistas of the towering, snow-capped peak that dominates the horizon.
Narada Falls, Mt Rainier State Park
Upon arrival, prepare to be awestruck by the sheer grandeur of Mount Rainier, an active volcano that stands at an impressive 14,411 feet (4,392 meters) above sea level. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the park’s vast network of trails, each leading you through a diverse tapestry of landscapes, from cascading waterfalls and serene alpine lakes to wildflower-dotted meadows and ancient, moss-covered forests. Be sure to visit some of the largest Douglas Firs in the old growth forests, as well as Narada falls. If you hit the falls at the right time on a sunny day you’ll be treated with a fabulous rainbow at the bottom of the falls.
Mt Rainier National Park
One must-see destination within the park is the iconic Paradise area, where you can immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty that has inspired generations of visitors. Hike through the serene trails, keeping an eye out for the vibrant wildflowers that dot the landscape, and be rewarded with panoramic views of the mountain’s glaciers and snowfields. For a truly unforgettable experience, consider booking a guided tour or joining a ranger-led program, which will provide you with a deeper understanding of the park’s rich history, diverse ecosystems, and the importance of conservation efforts.
Day 3: Underground Seattle and MoPOP
On your final day in Seattle, embark on a journey to uncover the city’s hidden past by exploring the intriguing world of underground Seattle. Delve into the city’s history and discover the fascinating story of how Seattle rebuilt itself after a devastating fire in the late 19th century. Join a guided tour that will take you beneath the modern streets, where you’ll walk through the abandoned storefronts and alleyways that once bustled with life.
As you navigate the dimly lit tunnels and passageways, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience and ingenuity of the city’s early inhabitants, who refused to let a devastating fire deter them from rebuilding and reinventing their beloved Emerald City. Marvel at the well-preserved historic structures and imagine the vibrant scenes that once unfolded in these subterranean spaces, from bustling businesses to lively social gatherings.
After your underground adventure, head to the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), a one-of-a-kind institution that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of music, film, and interactive media. Immerse yourself in the captivating exhibits that showcase the evolution of popular culture, from the iconic costumes and memorabilia of your favorite movies and TV shows to the instruments and memorabilia of legendary musicians. Explore interactive displays that allow you to dive deeper into the creative processes behind the art forms you love, and perhaps even try your hand at mixing music or designing your own album cover. During our visit last week (June 2024) we visited the special exhibit: Hidden Worlds of the Laika Films, and it was fascinating!
Where to eat in Seattle – A food lover’s guide
Seattle’s vibrant food scene is a testament to the city’s diverse culinary influences and the creativity of its talented chefs. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, innovative farm-to-table cuisine, or a cozy neighborhood cafe, the Emerald City has something to satisfy every palate.
For a quintessential Seattle dining experience, head to Pike Place Chowder, where you can indulge in the city’s famous clam chowder, served in a sourdough bread bowl. The creamy, flavorful broth is the perfect accompaniment to the tender, succulent clams, making for a truly satisfying and comforting meal. We were told on our foodie tour, that they are so good they are no longer allowed to enter Chowder competitions, they are banned because they always win! Be warned the line is long! If you don’t “have” to dine in for the experience you can order take out, pick it up and find a place along the water to enjoy your feast!
Pike Place Chowder
If you’re craving a more upscale dining experience, make a reservation at the Six Seven Restaurant and Lounge at the Edgewater Hotel. This restaurant and bar offer an elegant dining atmosphere with amazing views of the sound and the Olympic mountains, with a menu that showcases the finest Pacific Northwest ingredients, expertly crafted into innovative and visually stunning dishes.
Sunset view from the Edgewater
For a taste of the city’s thriving farm-to-table movement, visit Tilth, a cozy neighborhood restaurant that sources its ingredients from local, sustainable producers. Savor the bold flavors and vibrant colors of dishes that celebrate the seasons, and indulge in the restaurant’s extensive wine list, featuring a curated selection of Pacific Northwest varietals.
No visit to Seattle would be complete without a stop at Beecher’s Handmade Cheese, where you can witness the art of cheesemaking and sample the creamy, flavorful results. Pair your favorite cheese with a freshly baked baguette and a glass of local wine for a truly memorable culinary experience.
We also made a visit to Shuckers at the Fairmont Olympic in Seattle where we were able to taste Oysters and fresh seafood from the Pacific Northwest. We loved the atmosphere and the old wood and architecture. It’s situated in the Fairmont Hotel which is celebrating it’s 100 year anniversary!
Must-visit attractions for your Seattle itinerary
Beyond the culinary delights, Seattle boasts a wealth of iconic attractions that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and innovative spirit. As you plan your 3-day adventure, be sure to add these must-visit destinations to your itinerary.
Start your exploration at the legendary Space Needle, the city’s most recognizable landmark and a symbol of Seattle’s futuristic vision. Ascend to the observation deck, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city skyline, the Puget Sound, and the majestic Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges in the distance. For an even more breathtaking experience, consider booking a reservation at the rotating SkyCity Restaurant, where you can savor a meal while taking in the stunning vistas.
Space Needle
For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Chihuly Garden and Glass is an absolute must for your Seattle itinerary. This captivating exhibition showcases the breathtaking glass sculptures of renowned artist Dale Chihuly, whose vibrant, organic creations seem to defy gravity and captivate the senses. Wander through the indoor galleries and the lush outdoor gardens, where Chihuly’s masterpieces are seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape, creating a truly awe-inspiring experience.
No Seattle itinerary would be complete without a visit to the iconic Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), a one-of-a-kind institution that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of music, film, and interactive media. Immerse yourself in the captivating exhibits that showcase the evolution of popular culture, from the iconic costumes and memorabilia of your favorite movies and TV shows to the instruments and memorabilia of legendary musicians. Explore interactive displays that allow you to dive deeper into the creative processes behind the art forms you love, and perhaps even try your hand at mixing music or designing your own album cover.
For a deeper understanding of Seattle’s history and its transformation into the vibrant, tech-driven city it is today, make a stop at the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI). Discover the city’s humble beginnings as a logging town, learn about the devastating fire that reshaped its landscape, and explore the innovations that have propelled Seattle into the future. Engage with immersive exhibits, interactive displays, and a wealth of historical artifacts that bring the city’s past to life.
Explore more for your Seattle itinerary
Author
Travel Advisor
Suzanne Poirier
