With 3 days in Seattle, you'll have time to experience the city's highlights. Forget the 'rainy city' cliché. Seattle's true character is defined by its stunning convergence of urban energy and wild, accessible nature.
Why Visit Seattle
Music History & Vibrant Arts: Walk in the footsteps of grunge legends at the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), designed by Frank Gehry, and see guitars smashed by Kurt Cobain. Catch a rising band at the iconic Crocodile in Belltown or experience world-class theater at the 5th Avenue. The Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit showcases breathtaking glass art, while the Seattle Art Museum's collection spans continents.
Iconic Landmarks with a View: Ascend the Space Needle for 360-degree views of the city, mountains, and sound. Explore the bustling, century-old Pike Place Market, where vendors throw fish, artists sell crafts, and the original Starbucks still draws a crowd. Ride the historic Seattle Center Monorail and stroll the revitalized Seattle Waterfront, home to the Great Wheel and the Seattle Aquarium.
Unbeatable Access to the Great Outdoors: Within the city, discover Discovery Park's rugged beaches and forests or bike the Burke-Gilman Trail. A short ferry ride leads to the car-free bliss of Bainbridge Island. For a grand adventure, Mount Rainier National Park is a two-hour drive for epic hiking, while the San Juan Islands offer prime whale-watching and kayaking.
Find cheap transport to Seattle
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Seattle
Enter your departure city to see prices
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions
Start your Seattle adventure by getting your bearings and exploring the city's most iconic landmarks. Take time to soak in the atmosphere and discover why this destination captures the hearts of millions.
Pike Place Market
Experience Pike Place Market, one of Seattle's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into United States's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Space Needle
Experience Space Needle, one of Seattle's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into United States's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 2: Local Life & Neighborhoods
Experience Seattle like a local today. Wander through authentic neighborhoods, discover hidden cafes, and get a taste of everyday life in United States.
Museum of Pop Culture
Experience Museum of Pop Culture, one of Seattle's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into United States's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Chihuly Garden
Experience Chihuly Garden, one of Seattle's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into United States's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 3: Bonus Discoveries & Departure
Before you leave, squeeze in a few more Seattle experiences. Even a morning can hold wonderful discoveries in this city.
Seattle Waterfront
Experience Seattle Waterfront, one of Seattle's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into United States's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Capitol Hill
Experience Capitol Hill, one of Seattle's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into United States's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Ready to explore Seattle?
Travel Tips
- 1Book accommodation in the city center for easy access to attractions. Seattle is very walkable for a short trip.
- 2The best time to visit Seattle is June to September. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- 3The local currency is US Dollar ($). Carry some cash for small vendors and markets.
- 4A few words in English go a long way with locals. Even "please" and "thank you" will earn smiles.
- 5Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip. WiFi can be spotty in historic areas.
- 63 days is ideal for the main highlights. Prioritize what matters most to you.
Must-Try Food in Seattle
💡 Always carry a light, packable rain jacket, even on sunny summer days. The weather can change quickly, and 'Seattle drizzle' is a real phenomenon.
Book Activities in Seattle
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Neighborhoods to Explore in Seattle
Capitol Hill
The historic heart of Seattle's LGBTQ+ community and counterculture, Capitol Hill is a vibrant, walkable district known for its nightlife, eclectic dining, and activist spirit.
Ballard
Once a separate Scandinavian fishing town, Ballard retains a distinct, maritime-meets-hipster vibe.
Pioneer Square
Seattle's oldest neighborhood, with charming, Romanesque Revival architecture, cobblestone streets, and a network of underground passageways from the city's early days.
Plan your Seattle adventure
Let AI create the perfect itinerary for your trip to Seattle. Just describe what you want to experience.
Plan Seattle trip