Start by exploring Downtown Seattle, home to some of the city's most iconic attractions, such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and Gum Wall. Visit the Seattle Art Museum, shop at stores like Nordstrom and Macy's, and grab some coffee from the first-ever Starbucks. Cap off the day with a sunset visit to Kerry Park for stunning views of the city skyline.
Head over to Capitol Hill, Seattle's trendy and diverse neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife, independent shops, and unique art scene. Indulge in some retail therapy at Elliott Bay Book Company, Totokaelo, and Retrofit Home. Enjoy a drink at the famous Unicorn Bar or explore the interactive exhibits at Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP). End the day with delicious food at one of Capitol Hill's many restaurants, such as Sun Liquor, Mamnoon, or Terra Plata.
Start your day in the peaceful Queen Anne neighborhood with a stroll through the picturesque Volunteer Park, housing a botanical conservatory and Seattle Asian Art Museum. Visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass to discover the work of the local pioneer of blown-glass art. Wrap up your trip with a ferry ride across the Puget Sound to Bainbridge Island, offering panoramic views of Seattle and the Olympics.
Seattle is a pedestrian-friendly city, and most attractions are within a short walk of one another. However, it may be helpful to use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft for longer trips or public transportation services like the rapid transit system known as the Link Light Rail. Expect to spend about $10-$20 per day on transportation if not walking, depending on the locations of your accommodations and attractions.
If you have extra time, consider taking a day trip to scenic Mount Rainier National Park or hiking to the summit of nearby Rattlesnake Ledge. For those with limited time, remove Bainbridge Island from the itinerary as the ferry ride can take up a good chunk of the day. Additionally, if you're a music lover, visit during the summer months for the annual Capitol Hill Block Party, a three-day music festival featuring local and national acts.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the main airport serving Seattle, located about 14 miles south of the city center in the city of SeaTac. The airport code is SEA. The airport is well-served by public transportation, including the Link Light Rail, which makes stops across downtown Seattle. Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available at the airport. Expect to pay about $40-$60 for a taxi or around $25 for an Uber or Lyft to the city center, depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.