Ready for a thrill ride through the heart of the Emerald City?
Seattle, nestled between the sparkly waters of the Puget Sound and the majestic mountains, is a city of limitless experiences – a harmonious blend of urban charm and natural beauty.
Now, I know planning a trip to an unfamiliar city can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube in the dark.
But fear not, my friends! I’ve navigated the nooks and crannies of Seattle, and made all the wrong turns so you don’t have to. I’m here to guide you through your ultimate two-day extravaganza in the city of grunge, tech giants, and of course, coffee!
So, dust off that suitcase, grab your exploratory spirit and let’s dive right into the art of making the most of 48 hours in Seattle – getting around, and finding the coziest spots to rest your weary head after a day of Seattle-sized adventures.
See Seattle’s top attractions, handpicked and packaged together at significant savings. Valid for 9 consecutive days from first use.
Includes entrance to the Space Needle and Seattle Aquarium, PLUS your choice of admission to 3 of the following attractions:
- Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour
- Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
- Woodland Park Zoo
- Chihuly Garden and Glass
In this post, you'll find...
Is 2 Days Enough in Seattle?
You’re planning a trip to Seattle, and you’re wondering if two days is enough time to see everything the city has to offer.
The answer is both yes and no. While two days is definitely not enough time to see everything Seattle has to offer, it is enough time to get a taste of the city and see some of its most iconic attractions.
While two days is not enough time to see everything Seattle has to offer, it is enough time to get a taste of the city and see some of its most iconic attractions. With a little bit of planning and some strategic use of public transportation, you can make the most of your time in Seattle and have a memorable trip.
Tips for getting the most out of a short trip
Seattle is a city with a lot of personality and a lot to offer. From the iconic Space Needle to the bustling Pike Place Market, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. However, with only two days in the city, you’ll have to be strategic about what you choose to see and do.
- Plan Ahead
One of the best ways to make the most of your two days in Seattle is to plan ahead. Make a list of the top attractions you want to see and prioritize them based on your interests. If you’re a foodie, for example, you might want to spend more time exploring Pike Place Market, while if you’re a history buff, you might want to spend more time at the Museum of History and Industry.
2. Use public transport
Another way to make the most of your time in Seattle is to take advantage of the city’s public transportation system. Seattle has an excellent light rail system that can take you from the Seattle-Tacoma airport to downtown and beyond. You can also use buses and streetcars to get around the city.
Related read: The 18 Coolest Landmarks and Instagram Spots in Seattle
What to See in Seattle in 2 Days
If you’re pressed for time and have only 48 hours in the Emerald City, here’s my top list of places that are a must-visit:
Pike Place Market
A bustling public market overlooking the Elliott Bay waterfront. Started in 1907, it’s one of the oldest continuously operated public markets in the US. From fish throwers, fresh produce, local art, to the original Starbucks store, it’s an explosion of sights, sounds, and smells. My favorite haunt is the ‘Gum Wall’, a quirky alleyway plastered with used chewing gum!
Here are some of the best things to do in Pike Place Market:
Seattle Great Wheel
Towering over Elliott Bay, the Seattle Great Wheel is a giant Ferris wheel (and the largest Ferris wheel on the US West Coast!). Inaugurated in 2012, it quickly became a city icon. The 42 fully enclosed gondolas give you breathtaking views of Puget Sound, downtown, and if you’re lucky, Mt. Rainier!
Space Needle Observation Deck
Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the Space Needle is arguably the most recognizable symbol of Seattle. Soaring 605 feet high, it offers stunning 360° views of the city. Fun fact: The Space Needle was once the tallest structure west of the Mississippi River!
🎟️ This combo ticket includes both entrances to the observation deck of the Space Needle and the nearby Chihuly Gardens!
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Nestled next to the Space Needle, this exhibition is a dedication to the vibrant glasswork of Dale Chihuly, a Washington native. The enchanting mix of vibrant glass sculptures set amidst lush greenery feels like stepping into another realm.
Seattle Art Museum
Showcasing a diverse array of art collections from around the world, the Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is a cultural epicenter. I was particularly enthralled by the Native American and Pacific Northwest art. The museum’s exterior itself is a work of art!
Olympic Sculpture Park
An outdoor sanctuary for art and nature enthusiasts alike, the Olympic Sculpture Park is a vibrant green space peppered with large-scale art installations. This park, run by the Seattle Art Museum, is a beautiful transformation of an industrial site into a dynamic blend of art and nature.
Sculptures from acclaimed international artists are scattered along a Z-shaped path that descends from the city to the waterfront.
The jewel of the park is Alexander Calder’s ‘The Eagle’, a towering red structure contrasting beautifully against the city and seascape. Interestingly, the park, being a brownfield reclamation project, plays a significant role in habitat restoration. The Olympic Sculpture Park isn’t just about the art – the location offers spectacular views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
The best part? It’s free and open to the public year-round!
Fremont Troll
A delightfully quirky piece of public art, the Fremont Troll lurks under the north end of the George Washington Memorial Bridge. This massive concrete sculpture is a beloved local landmark. The Troll, clutching a real-life Volkswagen Beetle, was created in 1990 by four local artists as part of a competition to rejuvenate the area under the bridge, which was becoming a dumping ground.
Today, the Troll is not only a testament to Fremont’s eccentric character but also a symbol of community rejuvenation and creativity. A visit to the Troll is an absolute must for those in search of offbeat tourist attractions. Don’t forget to climb onto the Troll’s massive arm for a fun photo op!
🤳 You can get up close and personal with the Fremont Troll on this 3-hour Seattle highlights walking tour – I highly recommend this to maximize your time here!
Pioneer Square
Seattle’s original neighborhood, this iconic neighborhood is the historic heart of Seattle. Characterized by Renaissance Revival architecture, it’s full of art galleries, boutiques, and eateries. Visit the Klondike Gold Rush Museum here to learn about Seattle’s gold rush era.
Kerry Park
A small public park located on the south slope of Queen Anne Hill, it offers one of the best vistas of Seattle. The park’s unobstructed view of the Space Needle standing tall before the city skyline is the most iconic image of Seattle.
Bainbridge Island
A quick ferry ride away from downtown Seattle, Bainbridge Island offers a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle-bustle. Its rich history, boutique wineries, and quaint shops make for a perfect relaxed day trip.
West Seattle
West Seattle is a neighborhood that feels like its own little city. It offers beachfront views, watersport opportunities, and cozy eateries. Alki Beach Park here is a wonderful spot to get a panoramic view of the city skyline.
Museum of Pop Culture
Founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen in 2000, this museum is a visual feast! It showcases some of the most iconic memorabilia from music history, sci-fi, and pop culture. Being a music lover, the guitar gallery here was my personal favorite.
Waterfront Park
Located on Pier 58, the park offers unobstructed views of Elliott Bay and a relaxed ambience. The giant squid sculpture and the sprawling ferris wheel nearby give it a distinctive character.
Capitol Hill
Known for its vibrant nightlife and counterculture, Capitol Hill is a hotspot of activities. From indie stores, coffeehouses, to a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, this neighborhood is brimming with energy.
Seattle Center Monorail
The monorail is a fun and efficient way to travel between downtown and the Seattle Center. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, it’s now an integral part of Seattle’s modern cityscape.
Ice Cream
Seattle’s ice cream scene is a delight for sweet-tooth enthusiasts. Try Molly Moon’s for their unique flavors. My favorite is the ‘Scout Mint,’ made from locally baked cookies.
These places are not just tourist spots, they offer a deeper look into the culture and spirit of Seattle, making them worth visiting – even if you’re only here for a short trip!
How to Spend 48 Hours in Seattle: 2-Day Seattle Itinerary
Buckle up, fellow travelers, as we’re about to dive into a whirlwind 48-hour adventure in Seattle. We’ll visit some iconic landmarks, get a taste of the local culture, and maybe even stumble upon a hidden gem or two!
Day 1 in Seattle
Your Seattle exploration should undoubtedly begin with coffee, as any self-respecting trip to Seattle should. As a certified coffee junkie myself, I recommend trying Victrola Coffee Roasters. It’s a charming cafe with an onsite roaster where they roast beans from across the globe.
Once caffeinated, head to Pike Place Market – a bustling bazaar with vendors selling all sorts of goodies. Don’t forget to visit the famous fish throwers at Pike Place Fish Market; it’s quite a spectacle! Also, drop by the first-ever Starbucks store while you’re there.
💡 Pro tip: The market can get crowded, so get there early to avoid the rush.
Next, mosey on over to Seattle Waterfront Park, which is just a stone’s throw away. Take the Water Taxi to West Seattle for some breathtaking views of the city skyline.
After your scenic commute, make your way to Seattle Space Needle. From the top, you’ll get panoramic views of Seattle. You can even walk (or sit) on the glass floor of the observation deck. It’s really trippy being up so high and seeing straight down below!
🎟️ Pre-book your tickets for the Space Needle in advance to avoid waiting in line!
Nearby, you’ll find Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Museum of Pop Culture, both worth a visit if time allows. Finish off your day at Alki Beach Park in West Seattle. The beach offers a stunning backdrop for an evening stroll with views of the city and mountains.
Seafood lovers should stop by Salty’s on Alki for a bite; their clam chowder is divine!
Day 2 in Seattle
Day two calls for a deeper exploration of Seattle. Kickstart your day with a city tour. I had a great time with the Seattle City Highlights Tour. It was a fantastic way to uncover the city’s history and quirks with a done-for-me itinerary.
Post-tour, set off for Capitol Hill and pop into the Seattle Art Museum (again, pre-booking tickets online will save time here!). The unique blend of classic and contemporary art at this Seattle Museum left me truly mesmerized. The facility has grown from its original 1926 pieces in 1933 to almost 25,000 today.
Your next stop is the charming neighborhood of Queen Anne. At Kerry Park, you’ll get a postcard-perfect view of the city, Space Needle, and if you’re lucky, Mount Rainier too! I suggest carrying a picnic basket and grabbing a spot for lunch with a view. In the afternoon, Pioneer Square, Seattle’s oldest neighborhood, awaits you. Explore the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and learn about Seattle’s gold rush era.
Don’t miss the Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour for a sneak peek into Seattle’s underground past! I wasn’t able to snag tickets on this trip, which I’m super bummed about. But it’s on the top of my list for my next Seattle trip!
End your day at the Seattle Great Wheel. Get tickets for the Great Wheel online and enjoy an enchanting view of the city as the sun sets. Don’t forget to treat yourself to Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream, it’s the perfect nightcap. I swear by their Stumptown coffee flavor!
This itinerary gives you a taste of what Seattle offers. Remember, it’s not just about the places you visit, but the memories you create and the coffee you sip!
Getting around in Seattle
Seattle’s transport system is as diverse as the coffee shop scene. I mean, we’ve got everything from ferries to bikes.
Let’s see how you can turn your Seattle trip into a smooth ride (pun intended!).
Public Transit
Trust me, public transit in Seattle is a breeze. Like that one time when…
- King County Metro Buses: They’re as regular as rain here. Just grab an ORCA card from any major transit station or online. Load it up online, at a transit station, or at participating retailers around the city, and you’re good to go. It’s like a magic carpet ride around the city. I remember, once I ended up in this quaint little bookstore, just by hopping on a random bus. Adventure much?
- Sound Transit Light Rail: This one’s a no-brainer, folks. The Light Rail is your express ticket from the airport right to the heart of the city. You can buy a ticket at any station using the ticket vending machines or use that handy ORCA card. A bit like the Hogwarts Express, minus the magic candy (sadly).
- Seattle Streetcar: Two routes, countless memories. You can buy a ticket onboard with exact change or just use your ORCA card. It’s like a scenic tour of the city. Tried it during my last visit, felt like a proper local!
- Washington State Ferries: The ferries here aren’t just transport, they’re an experience. You can purchase tickets online, at the dock, or use your ORCA card. There’s nothing like that sea breeze and city skyline combo. Ferry commute? More like a mini cruise!
Taxis and Rideshares
When public transport doesn’t cut it, or you’re feeling fancy…
- Taxis: They’re everywhere. Just hail one on the street, call ahead, or use an app like Yellow Cab. But remember, it’s not New York, you don’t have to whistle or do a wild dance to hail one.
- Uber and Lyft: Got the apps? You’re set. Just set your pickup and destination, and voila! Though there was that one time my Uber driver turned out to be a part-time musician. Only in Seattle, right?
Bike and Scooter Rentals
Feeling adventurous or want to burn off that extra Pike Place donut? There are plenty of bike and scooter rental options. Just download a bike/scooter share app like Lime or Spin, scan the QR code on the bike or scooter, and you’re off! It’s like your personal breezy tour of the city.
Car Rentals
Sometimes, four wheels do the job better. Car rentals are handy if you’re planning to get out of the city. You can book online or at the airport with companies like Enterprise or Hertz. But beware of the “Seattle Squeeze” – the traffic can be a real bear.
Walking
Sometimes two feet are all you need. Plus, it’s free! Seattle’s a pretty walkable city, especially downtown. Just pack some comfy shoes and your adventurous spirit.
Where to stay in Seattle: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels
So, you’ve figured out the moving part. Now, where to crash after a long day of exploration?
Every neighborhood in Seattle is like its own little world. Let’s teleport you through some of my faves:
Downtown Seattle
This is the city center, with everything within a stone’s throw. Want to shop till you drop or eat till you can’t beat? Downtown’s your spot. But remember, it’s as noisy as a rock concert. You’ve been warned!
Where to stay in Downtown Seattle: If you’re keen to stay here, consider The Fairmont Olympic for luxury, Hilton Motif Seattle for mid-range, and the Green Tortoise Hostel for budget.
Capitol Hill
Artsy, trendy, and vibrant. I remember staying in a cute B&B here, best homemade muffins ever! Finding parking in this area can be a bit difficult though, so I don’t recommend staying here if you’ll be driving around Seattle.
Where to stay in Capitol Hill: For accommodations, you might want to check out the boutique stylings of The Gaslight Inn, the fun-filled Cecil Beacon Manor, or the cozy comforts of the Capitol Hill Rooftop R&R vacation home.
Queen Anne
Spectacular views of the city, quaint streets, and the peacefulness you need. But, hills? More like mini mountains. Thigh-burn workout guaranteed!
Where to stay in Queen Anne: Here, you can opt for the extravagant Inn at Queen Anne, the lovely MarQueen Hotel, or the budget-friendly Queen Anne Escape.
Types of Accommodation
From posh to pocket-friendly, Seattle has it all.
- Hotels: Ranging from boutique to luxury. I once stayed at this hotel downtown with a rooftop pool. Swimming while overlooking the city? Epic!
- Bed and Breakfasts: Stay in a B&B and feel like a true Seattleite. Just remember, if the owner’s cat jumps on your bed, you’re officially part of the family!
- Vacation Rentals: For those who like a home away from home. Cook your meals, lounge around, pretend you live there. Last time, I found an Airbnb with a vintage vinyl record collection. Jackpot!
Tips for Booking Accommodation
- Timing: Booking a little early never hurt anyone. But you might find a last-minute deal that’s sweet as Seattle apple pie.
- Location: Close to the sights or tucked away in a quiet corner? Remember, this isn’t Goldilocks, you can pick both!
I hope this gives you a good head start on planning your Seattle adventure. Just remember, it’s all about the journey, and maybe a bit about where you crash at night!
Thanks for reading!
I hope this guide was helpful for planning your Seattle trip!
Seattle is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do – it’s impossible to get bored here. I truly loved my time visiting this city and I cannot wait to come back!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to spend 48 hours in Seattle?
If you only have 48 hours in Seattle, you’ll want to make the most of your time. Start your first day by visiting the iconic Pike Place Market, where you can enjoy fresh seafood, coffee, and local produce. From there, head to the Space Needle for a stunning view of the city. Spend the afternoon exploring the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum, which features stunning glass art. On your second day, take a ferry to Bainbridge Island, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the city and Puget Sound. End your day with a visit to the Museum of Pop Culture, which features exhibits on music, film, and more.
What are the top things to do in Seattle?
Seattle has a lot to offer, but some of the top things to do include visiting Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum. You can also take a ferry to Bainbridge Island, explore the Museum of Pop Culture, or take a stroll through the beautiful Washington Park Arboretum.
What are some affordable places to eat in Seattle?
Seattle has a reputation for being expensive, but there are plenty of affordable places to eat. Some great options include Paseo Caribbean Food, which serves delicious sandwiches, and Dick’s Drive-In, which is a Seattle institution known for its burgers and fries. You can also check out the food trucks at Westlake Park or grab a slice of pizza at Big Mario’s.
What is the best way to get around Seattle?
Seattle has a great public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and ferries. You can also use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, or rent a bike to explore the city on your own. If you’re staying downtown, you can easily walk to many of the city’s top attractions.
What are some must-see attractions in Seattle?
Some of the must-see attractions in Seattle include Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum. You can also explore the Museum of Pop Culture, take a ferry to Bainbridge Island, or visit the beautiful Washington Park Arboretum.
How much does it cost to visit Seattle for 2 days?
The cost of visiting Seattle for 2 days will depend on your travel style and budget. You can expect to spend around $200-300 per day on food, transportation, and activities. However, there are plenty of affordable options, like food trucks and free museums, that can help you save money.
Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!