Home to giants like Boeing, Microsoft, Amazon and Starbucks, Seattle is a growing city that is forever changing. The city has some fantastic breweries where you can try craft beers and boasts numerous attractions from the Space Needle to the Museum of Flight. Yes, it rains, but the summers are glorious and it’s the perfect time of year to get outdoors and visit places such as Vashon Island and Snoqualmie Falls. As gateway to the Pacific Northwest, Seattle makes a great place to base yourself for a couple of days before taking a road trip along the coast. If you have 2 days in Seattle, here’s what I’d recommend you see and do:
Day 1: Downtown Seattle
On day 1 you’ll probably want to explore all that downtown Seattle has to offer. But first, if you fancy an alcoholic tipple, we’d recommend heading to Copperworks Distillery where you can taste a bunch of different spirits made from malted barley and distilled in traditional copper stills. After a few gins, vodkas and whiskeys though, you might be stumbling out of the distillery!
Next, head to Pike Place Market, which is world famous for its “fish throwing”, where the fishmongers entertain tourists by throwing the fish that customers have purchased before they are wrapped. The tradition actually started in order to make the whole process faster, but now it’s also quite the entertainment act. After walking through Pike Place Market, make your way to the first ever Starbucks. The coffee here tastes just like the coffee in every other Starbucks but the line outside is humongous just because it’s the first one.
Next you’re going to head to the Space Needle, which is Seattle’s most iconic landmark. Built for the World Fair in 1962, the Space Needle dominates the Seattle skyline and offers brilliant views from its observation deck. It’s definitely one of those things that everyone must do on their first visit to Seattle.
Right next door is the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum which is home to some exquisite art works by famous glass blowing artist Dale Chihuly. Even if you’re not really into art, this is really impressive and a great way to kill an hour. The highlight is definitely the “Glasshouse” – a 40-foot tall conservatory structure with orange and yellow glass flowers on the ceiling.
Once you’re done at Chihuly Garden and Glass then head down to Frolik Rooftop Bar for some sunset drinks – this place gets really busy if it’s a warm summer’s day. For dinner, Noi Thai serves delicious authentic Thai food in an elaborate setting.
Day 2: Georgetown & Museum of Flight
The Museum of Flight is without a doubt one of the best attractions in Seattle. If you’re an #avgeek or you just love planes, then this museum is right up your alley. They have every type of aircraft imaginable here, telling the story of flight from the past to the present day. A highlight is definitely getting to go on Concorde and the President’s plane – Air Force One.
Afterwards, you’ll probably be feeling a bit peckish so pay a visit to Sisters and Brothers – a Nashville Hot Chicken place serving local craft beers and the best fried chicken you’ve ever tasted. This place is cute and independent, plus they have tables and chairs outside so you can soak up the sun.
Charles Smith Winery is right next door, so head on over for a wine tasting session. The venue is light and airy, with a spacious upstairs lounge where you can sit and enjoy the views through floor to ceiling windows.
Where to stay in Seattle
2 days isn’t a lot of time to explore Seattle but it will definitely allow you to tick off some of the best things to do in the city. If you like having the freedom of your own place with a kitchen, then we’ve put together a list of the best Airbnbs in and around Seattle.
Such a great list! I’ve been to about two weeks. I think I have a few fun stops to make on my next visit to Seattle!