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Creating a Seattle Itinerary can be quite the task! Seattle is brimming with cool cafes, iconic sights and incredible nature. Spending 3 days in Seattle, Washington is just enough time to get acquainted with the city.
To help fellow travelers plan their trip, we designed a perfect Seattle 3-Day Itinerary that features the absolute best of the Emerald City.
About Our 3 Days in Seattle Itinerary
Our Seattle, Washington 3-Day Itinerary is a detailed day-by-day plan. We feature the best things to do in Seattle – including tours, attractions and food.
Because there are so many things to see in Seattle in 3 days, we have limited our recommendations to places that are unique.
Pin, Save or Bookmark our Seattle Travel Guide for your trip to Washington State!
Seattle Itinerary: What To See in Seattle in 3 Days
This itinerary provides a succinct plan for seeing Seattle in three days. We feel it’s one of the Best Weekend Destinations in the US.
In addition to our tips for how to spend 3 days in Seattle, we also mention alternate activities that you might want to include.
Day 1 of Your Seattle 3-Day Itinerary
Start by visiting the city’s most iconic landmarks. After checking into your accommodations (recommendations below), head straight for Pike Place Market. Then wander along Seattle Waterfront Park and make your way to the iconic Space Needle.
Pike Place Market
Visiting Pike Place is practically mandatory – which is why we suggest starting your vacation. Opened in 1907, the multi-storied farmer’s market is one of Seattle’s top attractions.
Covering 9 acres, the expansive 24-building market was established as a place where shoppers could meet farmers, butchers and bakers face-to-face.
In addition to the produce, meat and fresh baked goods for sale, Pike Place Market is home to numerous craft vendors, antique shops and top Seattle restaurants.
Planning a Trip to Seattle Pike Place Market
Some must-see Seattle sights here are the famous salmon-tossing fishmongers, Rachel the bronze piggy bank, the original Starbucks, the infamous Market Theater Gum Wall and the Seattle Public Market Center sign.
However, the real draw is the food…and there is plenty of it! Nearly impossible to pick just one place to eat, we recommend grazing your way through the space. One thing not to miss, however, is a plate of Seattle’s own Chowder Fries from the famous Pike Place Chowder.
Looking for an upscale dining experience for your Seattle three day itinerary? Inconspicuously located down Post Alley, The Pink Door is an iconic Italian eatery.
Pro Tip: For a deeper introduction, we suggest joining a tour. Local guides will take you to the best Seattle bites and shops – all while filling you in on the marketplace history. Reserve your spot!
Seattle Great Wheel
A relatively new attraction on Elliott Bay, this 175-foot-tall Ferris wheel stands proudly on Pier 57. Visitors can hop on for a spin and enjoy the magnificent views of Seattle.
That said, personally, we like the view of the wheel, which lights up at night with a dazzling display of 500,000 LED lights.
Waterfront Park Seattle
Originally called Schwabacher Wharf when it was developed in the late 1800s, the old Seattle docks were transformed into a park in the 1960s.
Seattle Waterfront Park consists of several viewing platforms – and there are tables, benches and telescopes for visitors to use.
Space Needle and Seattle Center
Next up on your Seattle, Washington 3 Day Itinerary is the famous Space Needle. Hop on the Monorail and ride uphill to the Seattle Center, a 74-acre park built for the 1962 World’s Fair.
The landmark structure – standing at 605 feet – is the centerpiece of the park. Getting an up close view of it is a must on your Seattle 3 Day Itinerary – especially if it’s your first time visiting!
Take the elevator up to the observation deck, which offers stunning 360-degree views of Seattle, Puget Sound, Bainbridge Island and (hopefully) Mt Rainier.
Other top attractions at Seattle Center are the International Fountain, theaters, museums and art exhibits.
Kerry Park Seattle
Barely more than a narrow strip of land, the elevated park is the place to go for panoramic views of the Space Needle, Seattle Skyline and Mount Rainier.
If you are a traveler who likes epic views, Kerry Park will be a highlight of your 3 Days in Seattle trip. Make sure not to forget your favorite travel camera!
Dick’s Drive In
Eating at renowned Dick’s Drive-In is a must on your 3 Day Seattle Itinerary. The famous Seattle fast-food chain has been doling out “Dick’s Deluxe” burgers since 1954. Washington native Sir Mix-a-Lot even rapped about this burger institution in his 1988 song, Posse on Broadway.
After Dinner Drinks in Seattle
For after dinner drinks on the first night of your Seattle weekend trip, either go to a classic dive or a modern craft beer bar.
The 5 Point Café is a diner-slash-tavern. It’s exactly the kind of jovial atmosphere you would expect at one of Seattle’s best dive bars. Opened as a greasy-spoon in 1929, the 24/7 tavern serves all day breakfast and features a full bar menu. It’s iconic place to go on a 3 day trip to Seattle.
Just a block away, TeKu Tavern offers a more polished experience. With a gigantic selection – including many local Seattle libations – visitors are spoiled for choice. Those who want a taste of several local Seattle craft beers should order a tasting board.
Seattle Live Music
The Seattle music scene is legendary. In fact, many visitors plan a trip for the express purpose of catching a live music performance.
The birth of Grunge happened in Seattle’s downtown locales. Among the many small venues where grunge bands got their start, there is none more popular than the iconic Crocodile.
Opened in 1991, the Crocodile stage has seen a slew of iconic acts – including Seattle’s own Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden, along with R.E.M., Green Day and many others. The Croc is still an operating club featuring live music – so go check out a show!
Day 2 of Your Three Day Itinerary Seattle
Today you’ll delve into the history of the city, get a taste of local fare and end the day at a Seattle sporting event.
Seattle Coffee and Breakfast
The coffee culture in Seattle is unmissable! In addition to the recognizable (unavoidable?) brands – like Starbucks, Tully’s and Seattle’s Best Coffee – the city is home to hundreds of coffee shops and local roasters.
Getting a taste is a must on your Seattle long weekend trip – and it’s even better with a breakfast of biscuits or doughnuts.
General Porpoise Doughnuts and Coffee
If you want to your day in Seattle with a combination caffeine jolt and sugar high, then head for General Porpoise in Pioneer Square.
Biscuit Bitch
Those looking for a heartier ‘trailer park to table’ breakfast experience should track down Biscuit Bitch. Get your day started with a heaping mess of biscuits and gravy and a cup of coffee made by local Seven Coffee Roasters.
Pioneer Square
The next stop on your Seattle Itinerary was the heart of the city when it was founded in 1852. Today, the Pioneer Square district is steeped in history and filled with architectural gems.
Wander the streets, pop into the art galleries or embark on the Trail to Treasure. Pick up a free map at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park to seek out other points of interest.
Some other Seattle tourist attractions not to miss in the area are Occidental Square (an urban park with art exhibits) and the Waterfall Garden (for a calm respite).
Seattle Underground Tour
The Great Seattle Fire of 1889 decimated the original city. When it was rebuilt the planners buried the rubble and started with a clean slate.
By doing so, the remains are preserved underground…and visitors can access the old Seattle streets to explore the fascinating subterranean labyrinth, but only on a guided tour.
Smith Tower
This 38-story structure opened in 1914 – and ranked as the tallest building west of the Mississippi River at the time. Today, guests can access the 35th floor observations deck and Prohibition-themed bar by taking a ride up on the original Otis elevator. Buy Skip-the-Line Tickets!
Chinatown-International District
A vibrant, multiethnic area, CID is a conglomeration of three distinct neighborhoods: Chinatown, Japantown and Little Saigon. Known for its many Asian eateries, landmarks and festivals, it’s one of the most intriguing districts to visit in Seattle.
For lunch eat at Jade Garden or Honey Court Seafood – two of the more popular Seattle Chinese restaurants. Another good option is to check out the goods at Uwajimaya grocery store, where visitors can dine on an array of delectable eats.
What To See in CID Seattle
The Wing Luke Museum details the history and culture and Asian Pacific Americans in Seattle. While the Panama Hotel dates to 1910 and features a Japanese bathhouse.
Hing Hay Park, Kobe Terrace and Historic Chinatown Gate are other top places to see in Seattle CID. For something unique, stop by the Seattle Pinball Museum, where visitors can play classic arcade games!
Seattle Craft Beer
The craft beer revolution in Seattle is full on. Belly-up to the taps at Old Stove Brewing or have a tour and a taste and The Pike Pub.
For real bar nostalgia, however, head to Flatstick Pub. The Pioneer Square location is like a playhouse for adults, with mini golf, duffleboard, beer pong…and naturally an extensive craft beer tap list.
Mariners Baseball (or other Seattle Sporting Events)
If there is a Mariners game during your visit , it is a must for your Three Days in Seattle Itinerary! While not known for their successes (the Mariners have never played in a World Series), a night at T-Mobile Park is still quite the experience.
In fact, the Mariners proudly produce one of the best food menus of all of Major League Baseball. With a robust selection of ballpark classics and unique eats (like Hawaiian Plate Lunches and Acai Bowls), having dinner at a Seattle Mariners game is half the fun!
Before going into the stadium, seek out Al’s Gourmet Sausage for an epic Seattle Dog. Al is often credited for starting the strange Seattle tradition of topping hot dogs with grilled onions and cream cheese!
If there’s no baseball game, see if the Seahawks or Sounders FC are playing at Lumen Field, right next T-Mobile Park.
Seafood Dinner in Seattle
If you’re not interested in sports, consider settling into a classic Seattle seafood meal at nearby Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar.
Taylor shellfish farms have been operating in the Pacific Northwest since the late 1800s – and the company is committed to fresh seafood and sustainable farming.
Day 3 of Your Seattle Trip Itinerary
Get caffeinated and then spend time in beautiful nature during your weekend trip to Seattle. There are heaps of outdoor adventures in the city, so we are offering a few places to include in your 3 perfect days in Seattle.
Starbucks Coffee
Born in Seattle and now available nearly anywhere in the world, getting a taste in its home city is practically a must on your Seattle weekend itinerary.
Visitors can fight the crowds at the original Starbucks location near Pike Place or visit a Starbucks Reserve Roastery, where guests get a coffee experience like none other.
At the Reserve Roastery, Starbucks offers multiple coffee bars, tasting flights and even liquor-infused drinks. Afterwards, we suggest staying in the Capitol Hill district for a little sightseeing.
Stroll through Cal Anderson Park to the Reflecting Pool, peruse the books at the Elliott Bay Book Company or do some shopping at Harvard Market.
Seattle Parks
Seattle is dubbed the Emerald City for its year-round evergreens and abundance of nature. There are heaps of choices when it comes to parks in Seattle, and we are highlighting a few of the best.
Olympic Sculpture Park
Located just north of downtown, this waterfront 9-acre park is part of the Seattle Art Museum. Once an industrial site, the land was transformed into a green space in the early 2000s. The park is free to enter and contains both permanent and rotating exhibitions.
Gas Works Park
The former site of the Seattle Gas Light Company, this is a truly unique outdoor space to visit.
The park contains remnants of the coal gasification plant, combining industry with nature in an intriguing way. The other top attraction is 60-foot Kite Hill that offers stunning Seattle views.
Visitors who go to Gas Works Park might also want to check out the nearby Fremont Troll (who resides under an overpass) and Fremont Brewing’s Urban Beer Garden.
Volunteer Park
Situated in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, Volunteer Park, was established in 1901. Marked by gardens, ponds and trails, the space also features a conservatory, amphitheater, water tower, statues and sculptures.
Nearby is the Lakeview Cemetery, which is where Kung Fu master Bruce Lee and his son are buried. Their graves attract visitors to Seattle from around the world.
Washington Park Arboretum and Seattle Japanese Garden
Washington Arboretum is a lush space maintained jointly by both the University of Washington and Seattle Parks and Recreation. Visitors can join a guided tour or use the trail maps to explore on their own.
On the south end, the inviting Japanese Garden is a beautifully landscaped green space that was planned with impeccable detail.
Outdoor Excursions to put on your Itinerary for Seattle
When you visit Seattle for 3 days, there is just enough time to get out and explore the surrounding area. Even those without a car can explore beyond the city center.
In the afternoon, continue your discovery of the great outdoors by either joining a harbor cruise, hopping the ferry to Bainbridge Island or spending time on Lake Union.
Seattle Harbor Cruise
Enjoying the views from a harbor cruise is a fantastic way to cap off your Seattle 3 Day Trip. The classic, narrated 1-hour tour features the beautiful sights of Seattle Harbor and Elliott Bay.
Pro Tip: The 2-hour cruise takes passengers to the Ballard Locks and a community of houseboats (that were featured in the film Sleepless in Seattle). This is a top Seattle tour, but be aware that it is a one-way route.
Ferry to Bainbridge Island
Located on Puget Sound just across from Seattle, Bainbridge Island is a perfect half-day destination.
With the ferries running regularly, Bainbridge is easily accessible. Once there, guests can either walk into town – where there are museums, shops and wine tasting rooms along Winslow Way – or rent a bicycle to explore Bainbridge Island’s ample gardens and parks.
Visitors who would rather a guide lead the way can join an all-inclusive Bainbridge Island tour from Seattle. Get the details!
Pro Tip: Another fun Seattle ferry ride is to Bremerton. Once there, visitors can see the Harborside Fountain Park and Puget Sound Navy Museum. Then stroll the Bremerton Boardwalk to the USS Turner Joy Museum and dine on delectable seafood at the famous Anthony’s at Sinclair Inlet.
Lake Union Seattle
A large freshwater lake just north of the Seattle city center, South Lake Union is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and a great place to visit on your Weekend in Seattle itinerary.
There is an abundance of options for getting out on the water – from renting luxury boats to paddling around in kayaks to taking a cruise.
Visitors looking for a unique Seattle water expedition can rent a Hot Tub Boat – where participants…well, it’s pretty self-explanatory!
For a truly spectacular experience, take off in a seaplane for a flight over Lake Union. The scenic tours offer the most breathtaking views of Seattle, surrounding islands and Cascade Mountains. Get the details!
Seattle Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version our Seattle map of attractions below. Our map of Seattle highlights the locations of the sights from Day 1 (BLUE), Day 2 (RED) and Day 3 (PURPLE).
More Seattle Things To Do
We outlined our three perfect days in Seattle – but there is so much more to do in the city! Consider adding or substituting (we won’t be offended) some of the following attractions to your Seattle, Washington Itinerary.
Seattle Museums
As wonderful as the surrounding nature can be, the weather in Seattle doesn’t often cooperate. Thankfully, the city has a slew of excellent museums – some of which are included with the Seattle CityPass.
Seattle Museum of Pop Culture
MoPop is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Seattle. Housed in an architecturally unique structure, the engaging and interactive exhibits cover a range of topics.
Visitors could easily spend the better part of a day seeing the culturally significant artifacts and exhibits on film genres. Find out more!
Chihuly Garden
A simply magnificent display of Tacoma native Dale Chihuly glass artwork, the Chihuly Garden incorporates the intricately colorful creations into natural settings. Book now!
Pacific Science Center
PacSci is a fun, hands-on museum that is great for a Family Trip Seattle Itinerary. In addition to the scientific exhibits, the PacSci features an IMAX theater, a butterfly house and a laser show.
Seattle Art Museum
Featuring an array of modern art, international artworks and special exhibits – like the Porcelain Room, the SAM is an ideal place to spend a few hours.
Museum of Flight
The city of Seattle has a strong connection to aviation – and there is no better place to learn about it than the Museum of Flight. Exhibits feature more than 100 years of history, including many famous aircraft – like Concorde. Get tickets!
Museum of History and Industry
Situated on the south bank of Lake Union, MOHAI is a kid-friendly space that features key exhibits on innovation, tech and the history of Seattle.
Seattle Aquarium
A fun place to see seals, seat otters, puffins and giant octopus, the aquarium in Seattle is prominently located on the waterfront promenade. With knowledgeable staff and hands-on exhibits, it’s a fun Seattle attraction for visitors of all ages!
Woodland Park Zoo
The Woodland Zoo in Seattle is a fun place to go for families with young kids. From red pandas to grizzly bears to giraffes and monkeys, the space is home to a variety of animals from around the world.
University Of Washington
Home of the Huskies, the University of Washington was founded in 1861 – and is just a short jaunt from downtown Seattle. Campus visitors will not want to miss Red Square, the Drumheller Fountain or the Suzzallo Library.
If your visit to Seattle happens to be in the springtime, check to see if the Yoshino cherry trees are in blossom on the Quad. Also, the university’s Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture is an excellent place to learn about Northwest US history – from dinosaurs to Native Americans.
Amazon HQ Tour
Headquartered in Seattle, Amazon has built an urban campus which features The Spheres, three glass-dome conservatories. Tours are only available on select Saturdays, so check ahead before adding it to your Seattle vacation itinerary.
Seattle Architecture
The Space Needle isn’t the only architectural stand-out in the city! In fact, there are numerous buildings in Seattle that architectural gems.
Some of the unique Seattle buildings include the Seattle Central Library, Columbia Center, Rainier Tower, Seattle City Hall and King Street Station. Architecture fans will want to make time to see these structures when they plan a trip to Seattle.
Seattle Day Trips
While there are certainly enough city center sights for 3 full days in Seattle, there are ample regional attractions that visitors might want to include in their itinerary.
Boeing Factory Tour
Interesting to more than just aviation geeks, the Boeing Factory is housed in the largest building in the world. It’s a phenomenal place to learn about the history and engineering of airplanes.
On half-day expeditions from Seattle, participants will tour the factory floor, enjoy interactive exhibits at the aviation Center Gallery and get an educational experience at the Future of Flight Museum.
Mount Rainier Tour from Seattle
Located within Mount Rainier National Park, this peak stands as the tallest mountain in Washington State – and it can be reached on a day trip from Seattle.
On this popular day tour, visitors are led by a guide to spectacular waterfalls and amazing viewpoints. Depending on the season, the day may also include snowshoeing, sledding and wildlife watching.
Olympic National Park Tour
A UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve, Olympic National Park features both coastline and forests and has multiple ecosystems. It is considered to be one of the best national parks in the US.
Visitors can plan their own Olympic National Park Itinerary from Seattle – or join a tour the includes convenient pick up and a gourmet lunch. Learn more!
San Juan Islands Whale Watching Tour
The San Juan Islands archipelago is a fabulous destination from Seattle! Located north, near the Canadian border, these islands are renowned for their exceptional beauty. The ideal way to experience the San Juan Islands from Seattle is on a whale watching tour.
Snoqualmie Falls and Wine Country
On a relaxing excursion from Seattle, tour participants see the beautiful Snoqualmie Falls and then travel to Woodinville – Washington’s wine country.
In addition to the famed Chateau Ste. Michelle, tours also stop at a family-run winery for tastings. Before returning to Seattle, visit Boehms Candies, a local chocolate factory. Find out more!
Tips For Your 3 Days in Seattle Itinerary
Now that you know what to do in Seattle for 3 days (or longer), we have some honest advice and packing hacks for your vacation to the PNW.
Plan a Trip to Seattle, Washington
Organizing your Seattle trip plans is a must! Our Printable Travel Planner is ideal for staying on top of all the details of your weekend getaway.
How To Get to Seattle
An essential consideration for your Seattle vacation plan is how to get there. Our preferred method of travel is by plane – we are JetSetting Fools, after all! When looking for the best flights and airfare, we start our search on SkyScanner.
Seattle Airport to Seattle
The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) – or SeaTac – is located about 15 miles south of the city center.
Visitors can easily hop on the Link Light Rail to get from the SeaTac to downtown Seattle, but Uber is an option as well as private transfers.
Where To Stay in Seattle
Choosing where to stay for your 3-day trip to Seattle can feel overwhelming – there are so many options to choose from!
Seattle Hotels
To find an ideal hotel for three days in Seattle we recommend looking downtown. From there, it is easy to get to the best Seattle places to see.
The Artic Club Hotel is our suggestion. We absolutely loved this classy and cozy hotel that was just steps from attractions.
Use our Tips for Booking Hotels for Cheap!
What To Pack for Seattle
Now it’s time to pack for your trip to Seattle. So, grab our FREE Packing Checklist and let’s get you to the PNW!
Shoes for your 3 Day Itinerary in Seattle
When visiting Seattle in 3 days, you are going to need good walking shoes! While there is good public transport along with Uber/Lyft, you will still do a fair bit of walking. I like to wear these shoes by New Balance and Kris prefers Merrell trail shoes.
Seattle Weather Gear
Make no mistake, it rains in Seattle! Be sure you are prepared for wet days with a travel umbrella and a packable raincoat.
Of course, the summer sun can be intense, so make sure you bring sunscreen and a wide-brimmed travel hat if you are visiting Seattle during summertime.
Travel Camera
Seattle is beautiful – bring an actual camera to capture the stunning scene. We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens. It takes excellent photos – and comes bundled with tons of great accessories.
Day Pack
Whether you travel with a suitcase or a backpack, you will also want a great day bag to organize and secure all of your everyday travel items.
US Travel Insurance
Trip insurance may reimburse costs associated with cancellations, flight delays and lost luggage – along with illness or injury. Check rates and coverage at World Nomads.
Start planning your trip in the USA! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More PNW Destinations
- A Perfect Weekend in Portland
- Check Out Vancouver, WA
- Things To Do in Spokane
- What To See in Bend, OR
- Oregon Coast Road Trip Plan
- Columbia River Gorge Scenic Drive
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