Have 1 Day in Seattle? Here’s What To Do!
So you’ve got just 24 hours to soak in Seattle? Fear not! Packing everything into 1 DAY IN SEATTLE might seem daunting, but with a bit of planning, you can experience the city’s iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, and delicious flavors. My guide will help you navigate a whirlwind adventure, ensuring you make the most of your limited time and leave with unforgettable Seattle memories.
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whether you’ve been to seattle before or not, this blog post is for you!
A Quick Introduction to Seattle
“the emerald city”
So what does Seattle’s nickname, “The Emerald City,” really mean? It’s a testament to the city’s breathtaking natural beauty. Picture a landscape draped in a tapestry of evergreen trees, their lush foliage maintaining its vibrant green hue throughout the year, painting the cityscape and its surroundings with an emerald-like sheen. This visual spectacle aligns perfectly with Washington state’s own “Evergreen State” nickname, solidifying the connection to the region’s abundant forests. While the verdant scenery provides the foundation, the nickname’s widespread adoption can be traced back to a 1981 contest held by the Seattle-King County Convention and Visitors Bureau, officially cementing “Emerald City” as Seattle’s charming and fitting title in 1982.
taken in leavenworth, washington: a short drive from seattle
seattle as a travel hub
There may be a number of reasons for your 1 day in Seattle. Maybe you have a long layover (maybe you even picked that) to somewhere else. I fly to Alaska often for work, and Seattle is the main travel hub. A bit ago we visted Fairbanks, Alaska for fun and Seattle is also the main stop to that (read my blog post below). Maybe you’re in town for an event and you have 24 hours in Seattle to yourself. Maybe you are visiting another area in Washington, but want to spend 1 day in Downtown Seattle. All are great reasons!
best months to visit
here’s a little intro of what it’s like to visit seattle in different seasons throughout the year. they’re all great for different reasons!
- Summer (July-August):
- Warmest and driest months.
- Long daylight hours perfect for exploring.
- Numerous outdoor festivals and events.
- Late Spring/Early Summer (May-June):
- Pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers.
- Fewer crowds than peak summer.
- Reduced rainfall compared to winter and early spring.
- Early Fall (September-October):
- Beautiful fall foliage.
- Generally mild temperatures.
- Fewer tourists after the summer rush.
1 Day in Seattle: Best Things To Do
1: Pike Place Market, Duhhhh
A trip to Seattle isn’t complete without visiting Pike Place. The Pike Place Market is one of the oldest and largest US public markets, founded in 1907. It’s amazing. There are multiple levels and so many shops, restaurants, gift stores, etc. It’s on the waterfront with beautiful views, and is in the center of Downtown Seattle. You could spend hours on end here!
Things To Do in Pike Place Market
- Visit the Original Starbucks at 1912 Pike Place, Seattle, WA 98101.
- Walk through the fresh fish markets
- Buy flowers & get a souvenir at the gift shops
- Eat at Beecher’s Cheese & watch the cheese making process
- Get lunch at Pike Brewing Company
- Visit the first Sur La Table
2. See the Famous Gum Wall
1 day in Seattle isn’t complete without a stop at the infamous Gum Wall in Post Alley, near Pike Place Market. This bizarre and colorful attraction is exactly what it sounds like: a brick wall completely covered in chewed gum. While some might find it gross, others see it as a unique and interactive piece of public art. Snap a photo, add your own wad to the ever-growing collection, and witness a truly unconventional Seattle landmark. It’s a sticky, surreal, and undeniably memorable experience. The address of the gum wall is 1428 Post Alley Walk Wy, Seattle, WA 98101.
3. Walk On the Top of The Space Needle
How can you spend 1 day in Seattle without visiting the space needle? No trip to Seattle is truly complete without gazing upon, or better yet, ascending the iconic Space Needle. This futuristic landmark, built for the 1962 World’s Fair, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the
4. Ride the Waterfront Ferris Wheel
For a different perspective of Seattle’s waterfront and skyline, hop aboard the Seattle Great Wheel. Pier 57’s iconic Ferris wheel offers a leisurely ride with stunning views of Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and the bustling cityscape. The ferris wheel does have enclosed seating which is great for any weather. The Great Wheel is amazing, highly recommend.
5. Visit The Starbucks Roastery
Do you like coffee? Make sure to find time during your 1 day in Seattle to see the Starbucks Reserve Roastery. This isn’t your average coffee shop; it’s a multi-sensory immersion into the world of specialty coffee. Witness the roasting process firsthand, sample rare and exotic beans, and indulge in artisanal pastries. The Roastery offers a glimpse into Starbucks’ innovative side, showcasing their commitment to craftsmanship and pushing the boundaries of coffee culture. Note- this is different than the original Starbucks at Pike Place Market.
Other Great Coffee Shops in Seattle
- Victrola Coffee Roasters: Known for their meticulous roasting and exceptional espresso. They have multiple locations.
Victrola Coffee Roasters - Analog Coffee: A small, cozy shop with a focus on quality and community. They serve carefully selected beans.
Analog Coffee - Elm Coffee Roasters: Minimalist design and expertly brewed coffee. They source unique and flavorful beans.
Elm Coffee Roasters - Seattle Coffee Works: A direct trade coffee company that emphasizes ethical sourcing and high-quality brews.
Seattle Coffee Works - La Marzocco Cafe: Showcases rotating roasters from around the world, offering a unique and ever-changing coffee experience.
La Marzocco Cafe
6. Watch Sunset at Kerry Park
Okay honestly, if you do just ONE THING during your day in Seattle, it should be Kerry Park. This is the most stunning park in a beautiful neighborhood overlooking the Seattle Skyline and the waterfront. It’s an iconic view in Grey’s Anatomy (plus, the Grey’s Anatomy intern house is in this neighborhood). You can Uber or Bird (the scooters- that’s what we did and it was so fun) to this park. You’ll be sharing it with lots of other people too- keep in mind and be polite! The address of Kerry Park is 211 W Highland Dr, Seattle, WA 98119.
7. Ride a Ferry
Escape the city bustle and experience Seattle from a unique vantage point by hopping aboard a ferry. A ride across Puget Sound offers stunning panoramic views of the skyline, the Olympic (we did this on one of our trips and took the Bainbridge Island ferry BACK to the city) and Cascade mountain ranges, and the surrounding islands. Whether you’re heading to Bainbridge Island (if you have more time) or simply enjoying a short cruise, the ferry provides a relaxing and picturesque journey. Breathe in the fresh sea air, spot marine wildlife, and capture unforgettable photos of Seattle’s natural beauty. It’s a quintessential Seattle experience that combines transportation with breathtaking sightseeing. I felt like a character on Grey’s Anatomy, haha (my favorite medical drama).
Final Thoughts About 1 Day in Seattle
1 day in Seattle might seem short, but it’s enough to capture the essence of this vibrant city. Start your morning at Pike Place Market, soaking in the lively atmosphere and sampling local treats. Then, ascend the iconic Space Needle for breathtaking panoramic views. A ferry ride across Puget Sound offers a refreshing perspective, while a visit to the unique Gum Wall adds a quirky touch. Indulge in Seattle’s renowned coffee culture at a local roastery, and consider a ride on the Great Wheel for stunning waterfront views. Even with limited time, you can experience Seattle’s iconic landmarks, diverse flavors, and stunning natural beauty, leaving you with unforgettable memories.