A perfect day spent in Seattle, Washington
One Perfect Day in Seattle: An Itinerary
Seattle, Washington, affectionately known as the Emerald City, is a place where urban vibrancy meets natural beauty. With its iconic landmarks, bustling markets, and breathtaking views, Seattle offers an array of experiences that can easily fill an entire day. Here’s how to make the most of 24 hours in this dynamic city.
Morning: Coffee, Market Wonders, and a Ride on the Great Wheel
First Stop: The First Starbucks
Start your day early at the world-famous original Starbucks located at 1912 Pike Place. Established in 1971, this iconic coffee shop retains its vintage charm with its original mermaid logo and offers a unique selection of blends. Arriving early helps avoid the crowds and leaves more time to explore the rest of Pike Place Market. Many have also recommended checking out the Starbucks Reserve Seattle which is an immersive experience located just nine blocks from the original Starbucks Pike Place store. It’s definitely on my list next time I visit!
Exploring Pike Place Market
Just steps from Starbucks, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Pike Place Market. As one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers' markets in the United States, Pike Place is a sensory overload in the best possible way. Wander through rows of fresh flowers, locally grown produce, and artisanal goods. Don’t miss out on watching the famous fish-throwing at the fish market.
Food and Restaurants: For breakfast, grab a bite at one of the many eateries within the market. Piroshky Piroshky offers mouthwatering Russian pastries, while Le Panier provides a French touch with its exquisite pastries and coffee. Other hits include Market Grill (which has some of the best seafood in the whole market—highly recommend the blackened wild caught salmon sandwich!), as well as Matts in the Market, and Lowell’s.
Riding the Seattle Great Wheel
A short walk from Pike Place Market brings you to the Seattle Great Wheel on Pier 57. This famous Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, Elliott Bay, and the surrounding mountains. It’s a serene experience, providing a unique vantage point of the city.
Midday: Gum Wall, Chihuly Garden, and Space Needle
Gum Wall on Post Alley
Head back towards Pike Place Market to find one of Seattle’s quirkiest attractions - the Gum Wall. Located in Post Alley, this colorful and sticky landmark is both a gross and mesmerizing sight. Feel free to contribute to this ever-growing work of public art by adding your own gum.
Touring the Chihuly Garden and Glass
Next, make your way to the Seattle Center to visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass. This museum showcases the studio glass of Dale Chihuly. The exhibition space is filled with vibrant and intricate glass pieces, while the outdoor garden integrates these stunning works with natural flora. It’s a visual feast that highlights the blend of art and nature.
Space Needle Observation Deck
Just steps from the Chihuly Garden, the Space Needle awaits. Take an elevator ride up to the observation deck of this iconic structure, standing at 605 feet tall. The 360-degree views of Seattle, Puget Sound, and Mt. Rainier from the top are unparalleled. The recent addition of a glass floor on the rotating deck adds a thrilling perspective to this must-visit landmark.
Afternoon into Evening: Kerry Park and Dinner with a View
Visiting Kerry Park
As the afternoon wanes, make your way to Kerry Park located in the Queen Anne neighborhood. This small park offers one of the most stunning views of the Seattle skyline, Space Needle, and Mount Rainier in the background. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and a perfect place to relax after a day of exploration.
Dinner and Reflection
Conclude your day with dinner at one of Seattle’s fantastic restaurants offering views of the city. The Pink Door in Pike Place Market offers Italian-American cuisine with a side of waterfront views, while Canlis presents a more upscale dining experience with panoramic vistas of Lake Union and the Cascade Mountains.
In Conclusion
One day in Seattle can only scratch the surface of what this diverse and vibrant city has to offer. From the first sip of coffee at the original Starbucks to the breathtaking views from Kerry Park, this itinerary is designed to showcase the best of Seattle in a day. It’s a city that seamlessly blends urban innovation with natural beauty, inviting visitors to come back for more. Whether it's the allure of the market, the thrill of the Great Wheel, the artistic splendor of Chihuly’s creations, or the iconic Space Needle, Seattle promises an unforgettable experience filled with wonder, excitement, and beauty.
