48 Hours In Seattle
In just two days, explore the capital of Washington State, with visits to the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and Chihuly Garden and Glass.
With an eclectic mix of urban sophistication and natural beauty, Seattle captivates most visitors. The Emerald City offers a vibrant cultural landscape, expansive views of the Puget Sound, and a thriving culinary scene. If you’ve heard that it rains frequently, you’ve heard correctly, but don’t be deterred. Seattle actually gets less annual rain than cities like Miami or New York, but it’s spread out in lighter rainfalls over more days, creating a unique ambiance that adds to the city’s intrigue and supports its lush greenery. Here are some highlights for an easy 48 hours in Seattle.
Try These Essential Seattle Foods
Seattle's culinary identity is deeply rooted in its proximity to the ocean. Salmon is king here, and Elliott's Oyster House on Pier 56 is a top choice to sample some. Known for its sustainable seafood practices and dreamy waterfront views, Elliott's offers a variety of salmon dishes that showcase the region's specialty. For a smaller meal or afternoon snack, head to the world-famous Pike Place Market and experience the seafood and shopping spectacle (you’ll find fishes hurtling through the air throughout the day) before stopping at Pike Place Chowder. Here you’ll find the city’s most famous bowl of clam chowder, but if clams aren’t your jam, try one of their many other award-winning chowders instead.
While at Pike’s Place, pay a visit to the market’s most famous resident, the First Starbucks. It’s just across the lane from the main market, but you’ll easily spot it from the line out front. It moves quickly because this quaint location serves a very limited menu of specialty drinks along with a trove of souvenirs. It’s worth the visit even if you’re not typically a fan. Coffee culture is strong citywide, though, so it’s worth popping into other local shops throughout your stay, too.
Visit Seattle Center
Seattle Center is a can’t-miss collection of the city’s most famous attractions in a single spot and no visit to the city is complete without stopping here. This is where you’ll find the Space Needle, symbol of Seattle, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding city, Puget Sound, and the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges from the rotating observation deck at the top, complete with the world’s only revolving glass floor. Just next door, Chihuly Garden and Glass displays a comprehensive collection of Dale Chihuly's stunning glass artwork. Explore the many galleries, a centerpiece glasshouse that looks up to the Space Needle, and a tranquil garden adorned with captivating glass sculptures. There’s also a quirky bar café decorated with dazzling displays of the local legend’s personal collections, from accordions to bottle openers.
Also in the Seattle Center is the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP). The mind-boggling Frank Gehry architecture is worth a visit alone, but MoPOP’s collections celebrate the creative spirit of pop culture through interactive exhibits, memorabilia from music and film, and showcases on science fiction and fantasy. The interior is a bit smaller that you’d expect from the monumental façade, so pop in even if you only have an hour or so to spare.
Get on the water in Seattle
The sea is the lifeblood of Seattle, so get better acquainted by boarding a boat. Harbor cruises can be as little as one hour and still pack in the waterfront, skyline, and other key landmarks, or you can dedicate several hours to a sunset sail, dinner cruise, or more extensive tour. You also have a couple options for whale watching tours, but these will take at least half of your day. If you’re here for the nature, do it—these waters are teeming with whales, including humpbacks and orcas, and sightings are frequent. You can depart directly from Seattle to the San Juan Islands, or drive about 40 minutes north to Everett for often less crowded boats.
Book a room at this legendary Seattle hotel
The Fairmont Olympic Hotel is a Seattle icon, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2024. From its recently restored grand lobby to the spacious rooms and suites above, a stay here is a sophisticated escape in a downtown landmark. Expect all the best amenities from an indoor pool and modern fitness center to a 4,000-square foot day spa for ultimate indulgence. Enjoy cocktails with live piano, elegant afternoon tea on The Terrace, or a celebratory meal at The George. Or stop by Shuckers to experience one of Seattle’s top spots for fresh oysters in a handsome 1930s setting of carved oak walls under a tin ceiling.