Seattle Itinerary – 3 Days Planned By a Local
👉 Jump to: Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Map | Getting Around | Tips | FAQ | Where to Stay | Get Printable Version
I’m a Seattle local, and I have the best 3-day itinerary for you!
This guide includes excursions to some of the top things to do and see in the city, like Pike Place Market and the Seattle Center. I’ve also thrown in a good mix of activities that will take you off the beaten path to the places locals frequent.
Skip the stress of putting together an itinerary yourself. Use this one to guarantee you have a good time!
📚 Only have a day in Seattle? Check out my one day in Seattle itinerary to help you make the most of your make the most of your 24 hours.
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3 Day Seattle Itinerary
To plan the perfect itinerary, you first need the perfect hotel.
If these hotels still have availability for your dates, they are my top recommendations:
- 🏆 Best Overall Hotel – Fairmont Olympic
- 💎 Best Luxury – Four Seasons
- 🛏️ Best Budget Option – Watertown Hotel
- 🏠 Apartments – Find a Rental in Seattle
Accommodation sorted? Let’s get planning your Seattle adventure:
🖨️ Psst, wanna take this with you?: Get a printable version of this itinerary here so you don’t have to worry about finding it again!
Day 1 – Check Out the City’s Top Attractions
Morning
Seattle is the coffee capital of the USA, so you’ll begin your first day at a coffee shop. There are countless great local coffee shops throughout the city, but head to Anchorhead Coffee – it’s one of the best.
Anchorhead has multiple locations but go to the one on Western Ave., which is mere steps from Pike Place Market. Order a smooth pour-over or a seasonal latte to enjoy inside or outside if the weather is nice.
Skip the pastry. Your next stop is Pike Place Market and you’ll have more than enough options for a bite to eat when you get exploring there.
Once you’re done with your coffee, take a short walk to the market. Check out my Pike Place Market guide ahead of time so you have a good idea of what to expect!
The market is usually less crowded in the mornings. Spend time getting yourself oriented and enjoying the sights, sounds, and smells of the market as it comes to life.
Sample tasty produce in fruit and veggie-laden stalls and admire fresh and dried flower bouquets. Pop into any shop you find interesting. Check out the waterfront views from the Overlook Walk and take pictures at the gum wall.
For breakfast, I recommend Daily Dozen Donuts, Three Girls Bakery, or The Crumpet Shop. For snacks or lunch, try Pike Place Chowder, Beecher’s Handmade Cheese, Mee Sum Pastry, or Oriental Mart. Whatever you choose, don’t leave the market hungry!
Once you’ve had your fill of the market (which is likely crowded by now), head to Westlake Center to catch the Monorail. You’re taking the monorail to another big attraction: the Seattle Center.
Afternoon
The monorail will drop you off between the Museum of Pop Culture and the Space Needle, two of the city’s major landmarks.
Now get exploring! Decide if you want to ride the Space Needle to the top or take pictures from below. Then visit the Museum of Pop Culture, the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum, or both. Buy a Seattle CityPASS ahead of time for a good deal on tickets for all three attractions.
In addition to these highlights, there are plenty of family-friendly activities at the Seattle Center. Check out the Pacific Science Center, the Seattle Children’s Museum, and the Artists at Play Playground to keep kids entertained.
Go to the Armory for some quick food court-style bites if you get too hungry. During summer, you can also grab a snack from one of the various food carts around the Seattle Center.
When you’ve gotten your fill of the Seattle Center, walk about 10 minutes to the Olympic Sculpture Park. This cool park has dozens of interesting abstract sculptures and is a part of the Seattle Art Museum.
While you walk through the park, you’ll have views of the Olympic Mountains across Elliott Bay and will see ferries in the distance. The path through the Olympic Sculpture Park will eventually lead you down to the waterfront.
The Seattle Waterfront has some of the city’s other major attractions, including the Seattle Aquarium, Seattle Great Wheel, Miner’s Landing, and Argosy Cruises. Spend a little time here for a quick break. It’s a great place for people-watching.
When you’re ready to leave the waterfront, head to Pioneer Square, Seattle’s original neighborhood. You can walk all the way there if you have the energy (it’ll take you a little over 30 minutes). Otherwise, there are app-based scooters you can rent to make the trip quicker. You can also call an Uber or Lyft.
In Pioneer Square, you’ll go on the Seattle Underground Tour. This historical tour will take you beneath the streets to see parts of the original city before the Great Seattle Fire of 1889. Tours last about 75 minutes and are both informative and amusing. You can book tickets in advance online or over the phone.
💰 Budget Tip: On a budget? Consider booking a free Seattle walking tour! This is one of the best free things to do in the city, and it allows you to dive into the city’s history with a local guide who knows their stuff.
Evening
After the Pioneer Square Seattle Underground Tour, it’s time to wrap up a busy day. You’ll conclude your evening with dinner, dessert, and drinks in one of two neighborhoods. Decide what kind of night you want to have to determine which neighborhood to visit.
Option one will take you to Capitol Hill. Choose this neighborhood if you want a lively evening. Go to Nue for dinner, Molly Moon’s Ice Cream for dessert, and Rock Box for drinks and karaoke (make a reservation if you want a private karaoke room).
Option two is the Central District. Choose this neighborhood if you prefer a laid-back night at a few local gems. Go to Communion for dinner and Lowrider Cookies for dessert. Then head to Twilight Exit (my favorite dive bar) for strong & cheap drinks, plus a few arcade games.
Day 2 – Day Trip to Bainbridge Island or Morning Hike
Morning & Afternoon Option 1
I have two options for how you can spend the morning and afternoon on your second day.
Want a more relaxed morning and afternoon? Choose a day trip to Bainbridge Island. You’ll take a ferry to get there. Head down to Colman Dock to catch the ferry to Bainbridge in the morning.
Walk onto the ferry. This is the cheapest option at around $10 round-trip, so it’s great for anyone visiting Seattle on a budget.
While riding the ferry, take in the views from the front and back of the boat. The ferries are some of the best places to see Seattle’s skyline, so take tons of photos on the way over. The crossing takes around 35 minutes.
You’ll spend the day in Winslow, a cute town that’s just a 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal. Some of the best things to do on Bainbridge Island are in Winslow.
First, grab breakfast at Blackbird Bakery. After breakfast, browse the town’s local shops and art galleries. I recommend stopping by Eagle Harbor Book, Bainbridge Apothecary and Tea Shop, and Rockin’ Ruby’s Records.
Next, check out the museums. Both the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art and the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum are completely free to visit.
Once lunchtime rolls around, grab a bite to eat at Proper Fish for excellent fish and chips. And don’t leave the island before having a beer at Bainbridge Island Brewing or a glass of wine at Fletcher Bay Winery. As the early evening approaches, board the ferry and ride back to Seattle.
Morning & Afternoon Option 2
The second option for the morning and afternoon of your second day in Seattle is to go on a nearby hike. You’ll head east to the Cascade Mountains in the morning. Make sure you’ve booked a rental with Discover Cars ahead of time if you choose this option!
Get up early to avoid early morning traffic and crowds. Grab some early morning fuel in the form of coffee and donuts at Half and Half Doughnut Co. Bring your breakfast to go and make sure you also have snacks and lots of water to keep your energy up on the trail.
Novice hikers can try Twin Falls (2.4 miles round-trip) or Rattlesnake Ledge (4 miles RT). Both have beautiful payoffs and well-maintained trails.
Check out Franklin Falls (2 miles RT) if you’re a beginner or visiting with kids. More advanced or intermediate hikers will enjoy Snow Lake (7.2 miles RT).
After hiking, you can make a quick side trip to see the nearby Snoqualmie Falls, which is the most popular Washington waterfall!
On your way back to Seattle, stop in North Bend. Have lunch at Twede’s Cafe, which is famous for being featured in Twin Peaks. Munch on burgers, fries, and a slice of cherry pie, then head back to the city.
Shower and relax in your hotel before heading out for the evening.
Evening
Your evening will begin with a stop at a classic Seattle viewpoint before you visit a cool north Seattle neighborhood.
First, go to Kerry Park. This little park in Queen Anne has one of the best views of the skyline. It’s one of the best places to get a gorgeous photo of downtown and Elliott Bay (and Mount Rainier on a clear day).
It’s a very tiny park, so this will be a quick stop. Snap a few photos, then head north to Fremont.
The quirky Fremont neighborhood has great shops, restaurants, and lots of public art. You’ll find the Fremont Troll here. Get a quick photo with Seattle’s favorite troll beneath the Aurora Bridge – it’s only a couple of blocks from the main drag.
Next, go to Mr. B’s Meadery for pre-dinner drinks. It’s a fun local bar with quirky murals, decor, and delicious mead. Grab a couple of pours or try a flight, and then head to dinner.
Fremont has excellent local restaurants. Go to Lupo for pizza, RockCreek Seafood & Spirits for oysters and seafood, or Freelard Tamales for some of the city’s best tamales.
After dinner, grab dessert from Fainting Goat Gelato. Then head back to your hotel for a restful evening after a long and busy day.
Day 3 – Explore Discovery Park and Other Neighborhoods
Morning
On the morning of your last day, go to Herkimer Coffee in South Lake Union. This is another one of Seattle’s well-regarded coffee shops.
Enjoy your coffee and pastry there or take it to go before driving to Discovery Park.
Discovery Park is 540 acres, making it Seattle’s largest city park. The park has plenty of trails, so it’s perfect for a scenic morning walk.
Listen to birdsong, check out West Point Lighthouse, and admire the view from the bluffs.
When you finish your walk through Discovery Park, it’s time for a more filling brunch.
Want a classic option? Go to Lola in downtown Seattle. This spot is known for its octopus hash and made-to-order donuts, both of which are delicious.
Or check out Geraldine’s Counter in Columbia City for something slightly more budget-friendly.
This is a classic brunch spot in a cute neighborhood. Expect great eggs, pancakes, and French toast.
When you finish brunch, you have two options for how to spend your afternoon.
Afternoon Option 1
Option one is going to Georgetown, a fun neighborhood with a slightly edgy vibe. Don’t let its industrial location along train tracks and near an airfield fool you. There are plenty of gems in this cool neighborhood.
Go to Georgetown’s main commercial district along Airport Way S.
Like beer? Visit some of Georgetown’s best breweries. These include Georgetown Brewing Co, Jellyfish Brewing Company, and Great Notion Brewing.
Check out Barn Owl Vintage, Fantagraphics, and the Georgetown Trailer Park Mall to shop. Grab delicious vegan sandwiches at Georgetown Liquor Company or flatbreads & grilled meat from Ciudad if you get hungry.
Finally, satisfy your sweet tooth with dessert from Matcha Man Taiyaki and Ice Cream.
Afternoon Option 2
Your second option is to spend the afternoon in West Seattle at Alki Beach.
Expect a lot of activity around Alki if you’re visiting in the summer. You’ll see people rollerblading, jogging, and biking along the main trail.
Rent a bike or surrey from Wheel Fun Rentals if you want to get in on the fun. Or you can rent a kayak from Alki Kayak Tours if you’d rather get on the water to take in the views from the Sound.
Alki Beach is the perfect place to spend a relaxing beach day sunbathing, playing in the chilly water, reading a book, or people-watching. It’s a great option if you’re craving a relaxed afternoon.
Check out some of the restaurants along the strip if you get hungry or thirsty. Get lemonade, sugar cane juice, and Vietnamese bites from Natalie’s on Alki. Sip beers at Future Primitive Beach Bar and grab birria tacos from Fire Tacos.
Evening
Your final evening will be spent sipping cocktails on a high-rise in downtown Seattle.
Make a reservation at The Nest Rooftop Bar, which is at the top of the Thompson Hotel. Lounge around on comfy couches or tucked-away seating. You’ll see why this made the list of my best Seattle date ideas if you’re traveling with a partner.
Sip wine or cocktails and enjoy tasty small plates while taking in the incredible view.
You’ll see the waterfront, the Seattle Great Wheel, and the Olympic Mountains from up here. Time your visit with the sunset to see everything at its prettiest.
Once you’re all finished, head back to your hotel. And that concludes your trip!
Map of Places Mentioned
Here is a Google Map with all the stops, attractions, and hotels mentioned in this post.
Where to Stay
Best Hotels
Choosing a good, well-located hotel is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your trip. For this itinerary, I recommend staying in Downtown Seattle or one of the smaller neighborhoods clustered around it. Check out my super detailed guide to where to stay in Seattle for more options, along with the ins and outs of every area.
Here are a few of my picks for great hotels:
- Budget – The Maxwell Hotel
- Mid-Range – State Hotel
- Luxury – Four Seasons
- Boutique – Inn at the Market
- Historic – Hotel Sorrento
- For Couples – Edgewater Hotel
Best Neighborhoods & Areas
Here’s a quick intro to some of the Seattle neighborhoods I recommend staying in. All of them are either on the light rail line or have plentiful public transit options.
- Downtown Seattle (Search apartments in Downtown Seattle) – Downtown is the central part of Seattle. Pike Place Market, the Seattle Art Museum, the Seattle Aquarium, and other top attractions are easily accessible here. Most hotels are downtown, and it’s easy to get to other parts of the city from here (though driving downtown can be a pain).
- South Lake Union (Search apartments in South Lake Union) – South Lake Union is north of downtown on the shores of Lake Union. It’s a great place for business travelers. It has great lakeside restaurants and easy access to other popular neighborhoods.
- Queen Anne (Search apartments in Queen Anne) – Stay in Queen Anne to be close to the Seattle Center, the Space Needle, and Chihuly Garden and Glass. There are both budget-friendly and family-friendly hotels in Queen Anne. It’s a charming neighborhood with plenty of dining options, cafes, and bars.
- University District (Search apartments in University District) – The University District is in north Seattle and is home to the University of Washington. It has budget-friendly hotel and dining options and a youthful vibe. Because it’s on the light rail train line, it’s a good option for being away from downtown while being able to reach it easily.
- Capitol Hill (Search apartments in Capitol Hill) – Capitol Hill is east of the city center and is probably the most popular neighborhood in the city. The Hill is super walkable and dense with restaurants, shops, and nightlife options.
How to Get Around
I recommend using a mix of public transit, walking, and driving for this itinerary.
Use the light rail to get from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to downtown. It’s reliable and runs often. You’ll find it convenient if you stay anywhere downtown, in Capitol Hill, or the University District.
Seattle is a walkable city. Many neighborhoods have dense commercial areas. Walk places when you’re able, especially while downtown or in adjacent neighborhoods like Belltown, Pioneer Square, and Lower Queen Anne.
That said, it’s a good idea to rent a car if you’re going on a hike or visiting a neighborhood not readily serviced by the light rail, like Ballard and Fremont. For an easy and reliable car rental option, book with Discover Cars for reasonable rates.
Check out my guide on getting around the city if you want the full list of your transit options. It includes tips on using the buses, streetcars, water taxis, and more.
Seattle Itinerary Planning Tips
Tip #1 – Decide on Your Transportation Ahead of Time
What you can do and how much you can fit into 3 days will depend on your transportation choices. Stick to the options in the itinerary that are closest to public transit, and familiarize yourself with the bus and light rail system if you don’t want to rent a car.
Make sure you’re willing to rent a car if you want to go on a hike not serviced by Trailhead Direct.
Tip #2 – Bring the Right Gear for the Season You Visit
Seattle is known for its rainy weather, so make sure you plan for this when making your packing list. Pack a rain jacket, especially if you’re visiting in spring, fall, or winter. Bring appropriate footwear and other hiking essentials if you plan to hike.
Tip #3 – Use this Itinerary as a Guide, Not a Rule
This itinerary is packed with activities and places to go to ensure you see some of Seattle’s best attractions. That said, you can (and should) adjust it as you see fit.
Don’t want to spend much time at the Seattle Center? Leave early! Want to dedicate some time to dining and drinking in Belltown? Do that. There are way more things to do in Seattle than can be tackled in 3 days. Always prioritize your interests.
Tip #4 – Get an ORCA Card
Get an ORCA card if you’re using public transportation. It will allow you to use the buses, light rail, streetcars, ferries, and more. You can easily add money to it with the myORCA app. ORCA cards are available for purchase at airport kiosks, in stores, and in plenty of other places.
Tip #5 – Make Reservations and Buy Tickets Ahead of Time
Book any tours you want to go on ahead of time, especially if you’re visiting during the busy summer season. I also recommend making reservations for popular restaurants to cut down on wait times and make your trip feel more seamless.
📚 Related Reading: Don’t miss my article on other Seattle travel tips! You’ll definitely want to read this before your trip.
FAQs
How many days do you need for a Seattle trip?
You should aim to have at least 3 days for a Seattle trip. This will allow you to fully enjoy what the city has to offer.
How do you spend 3 days in the Seattle area?
You can spend 3 days in the Seattle area by dedicating some time to seeing the major attractions on day one. On day two, you can go on a day trip to a nearby city or go on a hike. On the third day, you can spend your time exploring fun neighborhoods off the beaten path.
These are just a few of the options for where to stay in Seattle, but there are plenty more to choose from. Again, go ahead and check out my guide to get a more in-depth breakdown and find the perfect area for you.
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🖨️ Before you leave: Get a printable version of this itinerary to take with you on your trip!
Now you know how to spend your 3 days in Seattle! Remember, you can adjust this itinerary as much as you want to ensure you love every moment of your trip.
Want other options for what to do when visiting the Pacific Northwest? See my ultimate guide to the best things to do in Washington State next!
