How to Spend 48 Hours in Seattle
How to Spend 48 Hours in Seattle
Seattle, Washington is one of those unique places. Where the best of almost everything collides into the space of a single city. The exciting urban atmosphere is undeniable. Made that much better by knowing it’s snuggled up against a boundary of lush evergreens, soaring mountains, and mesmerizing waterways. Eternally intriguing, it’s not surprising that visitors travel from just about everywhere to get a closer look at the Emerald City for themselves. While you could spend weeks on end exploring the streets, stepping into museums and immersing yourself in the great outdoors that makeup Seattle. The majority of visitors come with a set amount of time dedicated to their adventures. If you happen to only have 48-hours. Make the most of every second by incorporating these must-stop destinations into your ideal itinerary. This is how to spend 48 hours in Seattle.
Day 1: City Views and Museums Too
Standing over 600-feet high in the heart of the city. The Seattle Space Needle is one of the most iconic landmarks the city hosts. While it’s a popular tourist destination, it should definitely be on every traveller’s day one plan. Seattle is a city that promises an amazing view. The Space Needle is the place you’re going to find it at its best. Head out early to beat the crowds and take the elevator up to one of two observation decks complete with a charming on-site café. Panoramic views stretching out over Mt. Rainier, Mt. Baker, the Cascade, and the Olympic Mountains. Combined with the Seattle skyline ridge, this is a view that’s captivating every time. Even in the rain, there’s something magical about a vantage point that takes you into the clouds.
Nearby, Pike Place Market is your next stop. With opportunities to browse the many stands and stalls that are packed with delicious goods. A popular city establishment in Seattle since its opening in 1907, Pike Place Market is the ideal place to find everything from fish to flowers. Small stores feature antiques, books, souvenirs, jewellery, and collectibles. To make it even more interesting, the entire market is built on a hill!! For an immersive experience, book a Pike Place Market vacation rental and you’ll be steps away from the most lively place Seattle has to offer
Once you’ve filled your bags with souvenirs, make your way towards Chihuly Garden and Glass on Harrison Street. Designed by Dale Chihuly, this dual gallery and garden provide a stunning contrast between living plants and glass exhibits made to mimic the natural world. As you wander through the design space, you’ll find delicate and ornate glass sculptures seamlessly woven into the thriving gardens. Colourful and vibrant, it’s a stop you won’t soon forget.
Be sure to make a dinner reservation for this evening at The Pink Door on Post Alley. This historic establishment serves up savoury Italian-American fare. In a charming venue complete with vaulted exposed beam ceilings adorned with soft lighting and colourful décor. While the food is sure to please, this restaurant often hosts an eclectic lineup of entertainment. Which includes aerialists, tarot card readers, and folk and jazz bands. It’s one of the most fascinating and unexpected stops in the city!
Day 2: Ferris Wheels and Fine Dining
The only thing missing from yesterday’s trip up the Space Needle was a view that included the Space Need itself. Change that today by making a ride up the Seattle Great Wheel your morning stop. This well-loved Ferris Wheel rises 175-feet into the air and provides an unsurpassed view of Elliott Bay. The enclosed gondolas hold 8-passengers, making this a trip up and around the city that won’t be stopped even if it’s raining.
Once you’ve set your sights on the city from above, make your way back down to the ground and head towards Seward Park. Encompassing more than 300 acres, much of which winds around South Lake Washington, Seward Park is one of the city’s most scenic destinations. Pack a picnic lunch or come for a stroll along the many paved pathways and take in the sights. The park hosts a large amphitheatre that is regularly the venue for summer entertainment. If you’re feeling tired from all the walking, find a comfortable spot on the beach and soak up the view of the Seattle skyline, Mercer Island and Mt. Rainier.
Seattle is a city of many views and some of the most impressive are found out on the water. A trip to this port city wouldn’t be complete without booking a Seattle Harbor Cruise. Argosy Cruises provides guests with a 1-hour tour of the historic Seattle waterfront that leaves from Pier 55. A narrated journey provides historical insight into many of the famous landmarks both natural and man-made that you get to view along the way. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase during the tour making it a savoury and convenient way to see the city from the water.
From the very waters, you just travelled comes a variety of fare that’s cooked up to perfection at Elliott’s Oyster House—your dining choice for the evening. Patio seating options and bayfront views make this a scenic and savoury stop that everyone in the family will enjoy. Whether you prefer crab, shrimp, calamari or the many oysters available in between, Elliott’s sets the scene for an elegant meal that is as delicious as it is decidedly authentic to Seattle’s seaside ambience.
Come See What it’s all About
While two days might not seem like a lot, Seattle is a city that provides enough opportunity for adventure to transform two days into a lifetime of memories. While it’s fun to read about, there’s nothing like seeing it for yourself. Seattle is calling, so what are you waiting for?
