Start the day with a hike at Discovery Park, the largest park in Seattle. The park offers scenic views of the Puget Sound, hiking trails through forests and meadows, and a lighthouse to explore. Don't miss the West Point Lighthouse Trail, a 2.2-mile round trip trek that rewards you with stunning views of the water.
No trip to Seattle is complete without a visit to Pike Place Market, one of the oldest continuously operated farmers markets in the country. Here you'll find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and the iconic fish toss. Be sure to grab a bite to eat at one of the many food vendors for a true taste of Seattle.
Cap off your day with a trip to the Space Needle, the most recognizable landmark in Seattle. Take the elevator to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. If you're feeling adventurous, try the SkyClimb, a harness-assisted climb up the outside of the Space Needle.
Day two is all about adventure in the great outdoors at Mount Rainier National Park. This park is home to the active stratovolcano Mount Rainier, multiple glaciers, and a multitude of trails suitable for all skill levels. If you're feeling brave, try summiting the mountain, but if not, a scenic drive around the park will still leave you in awe of the natural beauty.
On your way back to Seattle, make a stop at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. This impressive engineering feat connects the Puget Sound with the freshwater Lake Union and Lake Washington. Watch as boats of all sizes pass through the locks, and visit the fish ladder to see salmon migrating through to their spawning grounds.
Seattle is a walkable city, but a car is necessary to fully explore Mount Rainier National Park. Rental cars are available at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport starting at $25 per day. The park entrance fee is $35 per vehicle, and the drive takes approximately 2 hours each way.
If you have more time, add a visit to the Museum of Pop Culture or a hike up to the top of Rattlesnake Ledge for stunning views of Snoqualmie Pass. If you have less time, skip the Space Needle and spend more time exploring Pike Place Market or take a ferry to Bainbridge Island for a day trip.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is located in SeaTac, 14 miles south of Seattle. It is the largest airport in the Pacific Northwest and services all major airlines. The airport is easily accessible by car or shuttle service and takes approximately 30 minutes to reach downtown Seattle.