Complete Seattle Travel Guide

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Updated: 9/13/2024 | Complete Seattle Travel Guide

Seattle, Washington is located in the upper northwest corner of the United States. We endearingly call this area the PNW (or Pacific Northwest) which also includes Vancouver BC, Idaho, and Portland.

We’re notoriously known for rainy weather, coffee consumption, and a huge presence of software/ tech industries (Microsoft, Amazon, Nintendo, Expedia, Google, and Boeing are all based here).

One thing they don’t mention is how stinkingly beautiful our Summers are and why we’re known as the Emerald City (think bright green). The best time to visit Seattle is between June and September. I recommend a 5-7 day trip to fully experience what Seattle has to offer.

Seattle is one of the fastest-growing cities in the US. To date, we have about 800,000 residents. You can tell just by counting the number of construction cranes up we are still growing. Amidst the rapid change, businesses are thriving and new businesses are popping up constantly.

However, as with any developing city, things are getting more expensive, especially with our $15 minimum wage implementation. Below are some great ways to get the most out of the Emerald City without breaking the bank.

Related: Best Photo Spots in Seattle

Best Things To Do in Seattle

#1 Take a Hike!

We highly recommend you rent a car for a day or two and go on a hike. Our best hiking seasons are from May through September. It is also worth taking a hike during Fall to see the leaves change from green to red, yellow, and orange. Visit the Washington Trails Association for a list of hikes ranging from easy to difficult. Below is a list of my favorite easy hikes:

• Discovery Park – We love taking the North Beach Trail to the lighthouse. It’s also dog-friendly.
• Cherry Creek Falls – Located in Duvall and is dog-friendly.
• Lake 22 – Dog-friendly hike with a challenging sprawl that leads to an alpine lake.
• Rainier Mountain – We recommend camping here for a day or 2 and exploring parts of the Wonderland trail. 
• Poo Poo Point – This moderately easy hike takes you to a launch pad where (on a sunny day) you can see paragliders launch into the sky. 
• Rattlesnake Ledge – Easy day hike with views of the lake below. Also dog-friendly.

See our complete list of recommended hikes in and near Seattle for more.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 #2 Go Up the Space Needle

Seattle was the destination for the 1962 World’s Fair, which is when the Seattle Center was created. Along with the center came the iconic Space Needle and the Monorail train which takes you from Westlake Center downtown to Seattle Center.

Prices to go up the Space Needle vary by time of day. Go earlier in the morning to get a better rate.

#3 Visit the Center for Wooden Boats

The Center for Wooden Boats is located on Lake Union. On Sundays, volunteer skippers take visitors out for free. It’s a great way to see the Seattle skyline from the lake.

#4 Visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass

If you’ve been to the Bellagio lobby in Las Vegas, you’ve seen Chihuly’s glass art. Chihuly is a Washington native and a master in the art of glass blowing. We recommend taking a glass-blowing workshop while you’re in town!

Washington residents get a discounted ticket to enter the Chihuly exhibit.

#5 See Seattle from the Top at Columbia Center

Take the elevator up Columbia Center, Seattle’s tallest building, to see the 360-degree view of Seattle from the 73rd floor.

The Sky View Observatory is affordable and even offers student discounts.

#6  Visit the Fremont Troll

This quirky statue is situated underneath the Fremont Bridge at the north end of Troll Ave. It is an art installation of a huge troll with his hand over a Volkswagon bug. The troll is often decorated during the holidays.

#7 See the Seattle Gum Wall

The Gum Wall is one of the weirdest attractions Seattle has to offer. Some might find this disgusting while others think it’s a sight to see.

It’s located downstairs from the Pike Place fish market next to Alibi Room. Get ready for all the fresh bubblegum smells! Yum!

#8 Visit the Ballard Farmers Market

Every Sunday, you can visit the Ballard Farmers Market to see what the local vendors have to offer. It’s held year-round and has over 120 vendors.

Ballard is also a super cute place with tons of al fresco (outdoor) dining and hipster bars and restaurants. You can easily spend an entire day here.

#10 Take the Theo Chocolate Factory Tour

Theo’s is a gourmet chocolate company and it is fun to go through the tour and see how chocolate is made and sample all the different flavors.

#11 Fremont Fremonster

There is a lot of amazing art in Fremont including a giant Rocket and Lenin statues, a signpost that is reminiscent of Dr. Seuss, and our favorite, the giant topiary of a Dinosaur (the Fre-Monster). You can grab a map and do a walking tour of Fremont from the Fre-Monster.

#12 See the Downtown Seattle Skyline from Gas Works Park

Gas Works is a public park that has an amazing skyline view of downtown Seattle. The park is located on the site of the former Seattle Gas Light Company gasification plant. The plant itself is closed off, but there is plenty to do around the park.

In the summer, they host outdoor yoga every Thursday in the evenings. It’s also a great place to enjoy the sunset.

#13 Visit the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks

Here you can see the water level can change up to 26 feet as kayaks and big ships alike make the transition. During spawning season, you can see the salmon make their way up the ladders to mate. Oohlala!

The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks are located in the Ballard neighborhood.

#14 Bill Spidel’s Underground Tour

Did you know that present-day Seattle is actually built on top of the original Seattle? The underground tour is packed with comedy and knowledge about the old and new Seattle. 

#15 Kerry Park

Head to Kerry Park for great skyline views of Downtown, Alki, West Seattle, and the Puget Sound.

You may catch a wedding shoot while you’re here. It’s a popular place for photographers and dog lovers.

#16 Take a Ride on the Seattle Great Wheel 

The Seattle Great Wheel is located on the pier and was featured in the live-action remake of the Notebook anime series.

While you’re at it, take a walk down the pier to visit all the stores and restaurants. For a great sunset view, head to Pier 66.

#17 Museum of History and Industry

The Museum of History and Industry, better known as MOHAI, tells you everything you need to know about Seattle’s origins and influence. Learn about the Great Seattle Fire and the rise of local grunge bands.

#18 MoPOP Museum 

Formerly known as the EMP Museum, the MoPOP, or Museum of Pop Culture, houses Sci-Fi, Star Trek, Fantasy, Horror, and music exhibits. They have a rotating exhibit that costs extra but is worth it.

What is most attractive about the MoPOP is its undulating and colorful exterior design by the famous architect, Frank Ghery.

#19 Seattle Public Library (SPL)

The Seattle Public Library boasts a harlequin glass exterior that is just a beautiful work of architecture. Come inside and relax on their sofa chairs, use computers, or read some books.

#20 The Original Starbucks

You’ll find the “original” Starbucks is located in Pike Place Market. Every day, there is a line of people wrapped around the outside of the store. I prefer to go during the off-season when there are fewer tourists and the lines are much shorter. 

The actual original Starbucks used to be at the corner where the Seatown Rub Shack & FishFry currently is.

#21 Olympic Sculpture Park

Take a walk around the Olympic Sculpture Park. You’ll meet tons of dogs (they say in Seattle there are more dogs than children), enjoy an unobstructed view of the Puget Sound, and have an amazing sunset view along the Olympic mountain ridge.

#22 Smith Tower

The Smith Tower was once the tallest building in Seattle. From their open-air observatory deck, you can enjoy 360 views of Seattle. Inside, you can sip on craft cocktails and small bites in their China room restaurant. There is also a private residence located at the top of the tower.

#23 Watch the Sunset at Golden Gardens Beach

Take a short car ride to the Golden Gardens to enjoy an actual sandy beach in Seattle. I love coming here to watch sunsets. It’s located just northwest of Ballard.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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#24 View the Seattle Skyline from Alki Beach

Alki Beach is a peninsula located across from Downtown Seattle. From there, you’ll be able to take in the Skyline view of Downtown Seattle. It’s a great spot for photographers and visitors to enjoy.

To get to Alki Beach, you can drive there or take the water taxi which costs around $5 USD each way.

#25 Visit the Bustling Pike Place Market

Shop from over 100 vendors offering handmade products at the Pike Place Market. You’ll find a lot of produce and floral vendors here.

Grab a bouquet and have fun taking photos around the market.

#26 Visit Bruce Lee and Brandon Lee’s Grave

For Kung Fu movie fans, located near the bustling neighborhood of Capital Hill and Volunteer Park, you’ll find Bruce Lee and Brandon Lee’s gravesites. 

If you have time, try to visit Tai Tung, a Chinse restaurant that Bruce Lee frequented so often that they named one of the nooks, the Bruce Lee Room.

Address: 1554 15th Ave E, Seattle, WA 98112

#27 Visit the Harry Potter-esque University of Washington Campus

I wish I had known about the University of Washington (also referred to colloquially U-Dub) while growing up. I would have spent my college years here.

The campus is filled with gorgeous Gothic buildings that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to the wonderful wizarding world of Harry Potter.

The best thing to see here is the Suzallo and Allen Library, which looks like the dining hall from Hogwarts. Spend about 2-3 hours here to see most of what the campus has to offer.

#28 Visit Seattle’s Oldest Bar and Restaurant

Merchant’s Cafe and Saloon is Seattle’s oldest restaurant and bar. It’s also haunted by not one, but MULTIPLE ghosts! 

You can visit the location on your own (for free) or as part of a tour. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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#29 See a Sports Event

Watch a Mariners (baseball), Seahawks (football), Kraken (hockey), or Sounders (football) game. We’re all about sports in Seattle! Make sure to bring some green and blue to wear to the game.

The only thing we don’t have, but probably desperately need is a men’s basketball team.

#30 Visit a Speakeasy Gift Shop!

We love supporting unique businesses, especially if they’re woman-owned!

While you’re in Chinatown International District (CID) dining on some delectable dim sum, make sure to stop by the Sun May gift shop and check out Connie’s offerings.

The gift shop has been handed down three generations and is packed with unique gifts and decorations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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What to Do on the East Side

Wait, there’s another side to Seattle? Yes! The east side offers great luxury shopping experiences and delicious restaurants.

• Bellevue Square – Enjoy this massive upscale mall with every store you can think of.  It also has Beecher’s Cheese and Top Pot doughnuts if you missed those stops. There is a Starbucks restaurant with smoothies and organic salads and such, a mini Whole Foods coming soon and did I mention the shopping?
• Kirkland – Wander along the beautiful waterfront and explore the cute little shops. We love brunch at Anthony’s Homeport and for a tasting menu dinner you won’t forget, check out Cafe Juanita.
• Woodinville – If you’re an oenophile (wine enthusiast), you’ll definitely have to add this one to your list. Woodinville is home to notable wineries like Chateau Ste Michelle and Columbia Winery. Chateau Ste Michelle is a gorgeous winery and they feature Summer concerts with big acts such as John Legend and Gypsy Kings. Down the street, you will find Red Hook Brewery for a more casual vibe and the super fancy and super awesome Herb Farm restaurant.
• Snoqualmie-  Snoqualmie Falls is a gorgeous spot to hike a bit and check out the spectacular 268 foot waterfall. The hike down is fairly easy but the trek back up is no joke. There is an observation deck right off the parking lot if you aren’t in the mood to hike. It is an easy drive from the Eastside or about 30 miles from downtown Seattle. If you’re lucky, you’ll see a rainbow in the waterfall.
• Issaquah- Issaquah is another small community on the Eastside, probably not a major destination point except for the little farm we discovered called Fox Hollow Farms. Don’t miss it if you have children. You’ll get to see chicken, pigs, horses, sheep, cows, bunnies, cats, and a few peacocks. The farm is beautifully maintained and great for the entire family.

Day Trips from Seattle

Leavenworth

Head to this little Bavarian village that is especially charming during Christmas season. We also recommend visiting during Oktoberfest through the months of October through November for beers, bratwurst, and a party. We’ve also gone during the Spring and enjoyed bratwurst and beers at Rhein Haus. It’s also the perfect time to hike the nearby trails.

Attend the Tulip Festival

If you happen to visit in April, head to the Tulip Festival in Skagit Valley. It is only an hour away by car but the drive is worth it to see the millions of tulips blooming throughout the month of April.

Farms that we highly recommend are Tulip Town and Roozengaarde. Check out our article on the Best Tulip farms in Washington State for more info.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Suncadia

A bit of a drive in Eastern Washington but I am well worth it. It is a breathtaking resort surrounded by nature. You’ll find trees, rivers, and lakes. It was a very quiet and relaxing stay. There are many activities which include swimming, hiking, biking, stand-up paddle-boarding (SUP), canoes/kayaks, and scooter rentals.

This is 80 miles from Seattle and a sleepy place so don’t expect a roaring nightlife but the views will truly take your breath away.  We also took a quick hike to a tiny, tiny town called Roslyn.

Take a Ferry

Several islands are a quick ferry hop over from Seattle including Vashon Island, Bainbridge Island, and Whidbey Island (not to mention the San Juan Islands which are spectacular).

Whidbey is known for their Farmer’s Market, little shops and restaurants, and an extensive dog beach. Visit Bainbridge for the beautiful scenery that’s a quick hop away from Downtown Seattle.

Be sure to check the ferry schedule before you go! The ferry line can take up to 2 hours during holidays and peak hours. You will definitely need a car for Whidbey Island.

From Whidbey, you can hop over to the Olympic National Park and visit the Ho Rainforest or 1st, 2nd and 3rd beaches where you can see a legitimate sunset in the horizon.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Best Places to Eat in Seattle

Here is our pricing legend:
$=$20 or below
$$=$20-$50
$$$=$50-$100
$$$$=$100 and above

• 2120 ($$)– Located next to the Amazon Spheres, 2120 serves awesome cocktails and contemporary American fare. My favorite is their mac and cheese with duck-fat croutons. C’est what? Their happy hour menu is plenty to satisfy your taste buds.
• 5 Point Cafe ($$)– Open since 1929, the 5 Point Cafe is divey and the quintessential grunge Seattle restaurant and bar. In the men’s restrooms, there’s a periscope where you can view the Space Needle while you relieve yourself. My favorite dishes are their poutine (sub for tater tots) and country-fried steak and eggs. From Sunday-Thursday you can enjoy one of their 5 Point Specials for only $6 (it used to be $3.50!). What is it? A 2 oz shot of whiskey and a can of local cheap beer. 
• 5 Spot ($$)– Located at the top of Queen Anne Hill, the 5 Spot offers American fare and is known for its breakfast and lunch dishes. This is a must for anyone visiting Seattle. We love their country-fried steak and eggs, burgers, and cinnamon buns!

• Alder & Ash ($$) – We’ve never had a bad time at Alder & Ash! It’s one of our favorite restaurants in Seattle and we think they’re so underrated. Our favorite dishes to order here are the tuna tartare, tater tot bites, oysters, steaks, and the pistachio soft serve ice cream is unmatched! They also have an awesome happy hour menu.
• Altura ($$$$) – This is our FAVORITE fine dining tasting menu restaurant in the downtown Seattle area. They serve an Italian-inspired multi-course menu. You can’t buy plates separately here but it’s so worth it to do the tasting menu. Anticipate spending $125 per person and an additional $90 wine and beer pairing. The service is welcoming yet impeccable. You will not forget the food here. The menu completely rotates every 3 months.
• Ascend ($$$$) – We were recently introduced to Ascend during Seattle Restaurant Week (SRW). We were blown away at how creative and delicious the food offerings were. You can also pay $95 for all-inclusive brunch fare during Easter and Thanksgiving.
• Assadero Ballard ($$)– This is one of our FAVORITE restaurants. It’s a Sinaloan-style steakhouse with high-quality meat and a salsa bar. You’ll want to come back here repeatedly. The prices are very good for the quality of food received. There are two locations. Expect to wait at least 30-45 minutes during dinner.
• Bacco Cafe ($$)– Bacco serves a simple but flavor-packed breakfast fare. It’s a great brunch spot located right next to Pike Place Market. Order one of their fresh squeezed cocktails or a bloody mary. So worth it!
• Bangrak Market ($$) – When you walk through the doors, you’ll feel like you’ve just been transported to Bangkok. This is a Thai street food restaurant with Seattle prices. If you can’t fly to Thailand anytime soon, this is a good alternative. The corn fritters, boat noodles, and Kao Soi Chiang Mai are GOAT.
• Bar Dojo ($$$) – Bar Dojo is located in Edmonds just about 25 minutes north of Downtown Seattle and they serve amazing Asian Mexican fusion dishes. They are best known for their Ahi Tuna poke tacos, pork belly bowls, and ramen. They also offer seasonal dishes such as kimchi cheese corn and ribeye tataki aguachile. Watch our Bar Dojo review to see all the amazing food we ate.

Related: Best Seattle Happy Hours

• Bateau ($$$) – A steakhouse that dry ages all their meat. They also serve some mean aligot potatoes (think cheesy stringy potatoes). They list their daily meat offerings on a chalkboard and cross out items when they’re sold out. It’s pricey but worth it.
• Billiard Hoang ($) – Don’t let this billiard exterior deter you. There will be Asian gangsters in front. Walk past the pool tables into the dining nook and order a banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) for only $4. You’ll thank me later.
• Bitterroot ($$)– Their late-night happy hour should not be missed. Enjoy $3-7 drinks and small bites that are wallet-friendly and delicious. The restaurant is located in the Ballard neighborhood.
• Butcher’s Table ($$$$): We tried the steak sampler and were blown away. The service is amazing and the food even better. They serve wagyu steak and fresh seafood and do it really well. We highly recommend you splurge here if you’re willing to spend around $150 per person including steak and drinks.
• Cafe Turko ($$)– Located just south of the Fremont Troll, Cafe Turko offers an extensive menu with Turkish dishes. The place has relocated three times prior to finding it’s forever home. Our favorite is Suleyman the Magnificent (a meat-heavy dish with all the fixins) and Ayran (yogurt mint drink).
• Can Can Culinary Cabaret ($$) – We are obsessed with their brunch menu here. They also have nightly burlesque shows that are worth attending with your girlfriends or on a special date. We love their mimosa flight and steak and eggs for breakfast.
• Canlis ($$$$)– You’ll have to dress up for this experience. The service and food are top notch. Come in to enjoy happy hour at the bar or order the pre-fixe and wine from an affordable to a lavish range of reds, whites, and rosés. Read our Canlis review here.
• Cinque Terre ($$)– Serves Italian tapas dishes and an impressive all-day happy hour on Sundays. Get a bottle of Veuve Cliquot during happy hour for only $48.
• Cutter’s Crabhouse ($$$) – Enjoy an amazing view of the sound while you dine on exquisite seafood and cocktails. While you’re there, definitely try our iconic cedar plank salmon.
• Eggs and Plants ($) – A great vegetarian Israeli joint right next to a glass-blowing studio. Try the Shakshuka sandwich and Sabich (eggplant sandwich). You can people-watch while you’re dining in their back dining room.
• E-Jae Pak Mor ($$) – Recently made it to this list. They serve authentic Thai Street Food that you won’t see most places stateside. We are obsessed with their Pak Mor (steamed rice rolls) and noodle soups. You won’t regret coming here!

 

 

 

 

 

 

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• FOB Poke Bar ($) – This is a Chipotle-style poke bowl restaurant. You can get UNLIMITED toppings. I am obsessed with this place.
• Gourmet Noodle Bowl ($$) – If you like AYCE hot pot, this is a place to go. Choose from different broths including a Laksha curry option. They also have other Taiwanese dishes. Come here hungry because portions are huge!
• Harbor City ($)– Looking for some dim sum? Head over to Harbor City. They serve dim sum all day long. Definitely get their shiu mai, har gow (ha-kow), lotus-wrapped rice, and spongey bread. Dishes are meant to be shared as portions are huge.
• Jerk Shack ($$) – This is the place for Caribbean cuisine. Their dishes are made for sharing and serve two persons. We are obsessed with their pork belly. And always ask for ALL THREE SAUCES. They’re amazing! Come during Happy Hour (4-6pm) and enjoy heavily discounted drinks, including a delicious Moscow Mule for only $8!
• Kamonegi ($$) – They make their soba noodles in-house. They also have a late-night happy hour that starts at 9 PM. I suggest making a reservation due to the limited amount of space in the restaurant.
• Kedai Makan ($$) – This place has an average 2-hour wait. Come early and go get a drink at Revolver. Our favorite dishes are Roti Jala (lace bread with curry dip), Chili Pan Mee (anchovy beef noodles), and Bubur Hitam (rice pudding dessert) with coconut ice cream. You’ll want to order more than one Roti Jala. And while you wait, enjoy some complimentary milk tea and pandan water!
• Kin Len Thai Street Night Bites ($$) – We are OBSESSED with their happy hour menu. Most items are under $10 and the atmosphere is lively. It reminds me of being in busy Bangkok but with hip-hop playing in the background. Come early to get on the waitlist. It’s worth it. 
• List ($$) – Humbly offers one of our favorite happy hours. From 4-6p and 9p-close, their entire small plates menu is half off. Enjoy a $19 bottle of wine during happy hour. We come here at least weekly and 100% of the time always take out-of-town guests here. It is a must for us! If you love list, you’ll also love their sister restaurant, Barolo. Unfortunately, kids are not allowed here.
• Mamnoon ($) – Middle Eastern fare that is delicious and affordable. We prefer the Capitol Hill location.
• Maneki ($$)– The oldest Japanese sushi restaurant in Seattle. Dine at the bar or reserve a traditional Hannya room for parties of up to 10. I love the chirashi (scattered leaves sushi dish) here.
• Marination Station ($)– Also located just a water taxi ride away next to Salty’s on Alki Beach. Order Hawaiian-inspired fare while viewing the beautiful Seattle skyline.
• Mike’s Noodles ($)– If you’re craving Cantonese noodles, you will want Mike’s. Their substantial sui kau (dumplings) will have you coming back for more. I am addicted to their fishy yet flavorful broth.
• Nishino ($$$)– For a more contemporary Japanese dining experience, book a reservation at Nishino. EVERYTHING is delicious here. We love their seafood garlic miso soup. They also introduced us to Bubbie’s ice cream, which is mochi ice cream from Oahu.
• Ozzie’s ($$) – Come here for nightly karaoke, affordable drinks, and delicious food. We love their bacon-wrapped jalapenos and steaks. They have daily events (Mon-Fri) and daily food and drink specials. Ozzie’s is super close to Seattle Center and is woman and Asian owned! Watch our Ozzies review to see what they’re all about.
• Palisade ($$$) – Come here for one of the best views of Seattle from Palisade. Their cocktails are strong and their seafood is plentiful.
• Ping’s Dumpling House ($) – Enjoy Ms. Ping’s delicious homemade soup dumplings. You can also order frozen dumplings to take home and heat up yourself. Ms. Ping makes an assortment of dumplings. We also recommend her jajangmien, chilled pork ears, onion bread, and stir fry dishes!
• Pike Place Chowder ($) – You’ll be standing in line for a hot cup of flavorful chowder at their Pike Place location. Head over to their Pacific Place Mall location if you don’t wait to wait. I recommend ordering the sampler and trying a bit of each flavor.
• The Pink Door ($$) – Located in Post Alley near Pike Place Market, this Italian restaurant serves delicious pasta dishes and offers regularly scheduled cabaret performances.
• Piroshky Piroshky ($) – Enjoy Eastern European baked goods here. There is typically a long line at their Pike Place Marketplace. Visit one of their other locations to avoid the long wait times and explore another part of town. They have locations in Century Square, Seattle Convention Center, Columbia Center, and Kent.

• Purple Cafe ($$$)– Enjoy an impressive assortment of wines and delicious food. My favorite is their baked brie with a robust glass of cabernet sauvignon. Inquire with the sommelier about their wine collection.
• Rainier BBQ ($)– A Vietnamese restaurant with all the fixings. Come here for Cá Nướng Da Giòn (crispy skin fried catfish) and a plethora of other traditional Vietnamese dishes. Just a heads up, you’ll need at least 4 people to finish an entire fish.
• Rocco’s Pizza ($)– Watch the chefs toss pizza into the night. As much as I think this place is pretentious, I do love their pizza quality and flavor the best.
• Salty’s ($$)– Located on Alki Beach, take the water taxi over on Sundays for their seafood brunch buffet. It’s $50 but includes more seafood than you will know what to do with.
• San Fermo ($$)– This Italian restaurant offers house-made noodles in a quaint house. The portions may look small but they’re packed with flavor. We love their cocktails, caesar salad, and spaghetti.
• Secret Savory ($$) – Located in Ballard, this quaint Thai restaurant serves dishes from the different regions of Thailand. We loved their crab curry and papaya salad the most! They also have decent cocktails for only $8-9 a pop. It’s our newest favorite Thai spot in Seattle.
• Shaker and Spear ($$)– For delicious seafood fare, definitely go here. Their service is top-notch and their menu offers seafood that is beyond fresh. In October 2018, they offered a Nightmare before Christmas-themed cocktail menu.
• Skalka ($) – Skalka is a Georgian bakery that serves khachapuri or Georgina bread boats. Their bread boats are very flavorful and filling. They are typically eating for breakfast or lunch.

• Stoneburner ($$) – Get delicious pizza and pasta at this Ballard restaurant. Our favorite dishes are the bucatini, chicory salad, and uni arancinu. They have an excellent happy hour and tasty craft cocktails. 
• Taco’s Chukis ($) – After college, Roberto Salmerón rode his bike 1,200 miles down to Tijuana to enjoy time with his family and to eat all the food that he missed while attending UW. Instead of pursuing a career with his economics degree, Roberto opened up Taco’s Chukis and now serves a mean pineapple adobo taco in Capitol Hill and South Lake Union neighborhoods. If you like things on tortillas, go here.
• Taurus Ox ($$) – A Laotian restaurant with amazing noodle soups and umami-packed dishes. They also sell their sauces to take home. We highly recommend the Jaew Bang (pork jam). It’s amazing!
• Taylor Shellfish Farms ($$)– For some of the best oysters, head over to Taylor Shellfish Farms. They have a Monday-Friday happy hour from 4-6 PM. Get 12 oysters for $21. My favorite dish here is their Maine scallops with soy sauce and wasabi. They have an actual farm (2 hours north) that is definitely worth a visit because you can shuck your own oysters. Make a day visit there and stop by Fairhaven for some soft serve. Read this post for more details.
• Tavolata ($$)- Next to List is my second favorite pasta restaurant in Seattle. They have an impressive wine assortment and daily specials that you cannot miss. Come for their HH and enjoy some $9 pasta dishes!
• Toulouse Petit ($$)– Great late-night happy hour menu with New Orleans Creole fare.
• Un Bien ($$) – The Lorenzo brothers, Julian and Lucas, sons of Lorenzo Lorenzo, Paseo’s former owner, has opened a new place called Un Bien. They serve Caribbean-style food. We highly recommend their Caribbean bowl with scallops.
• Walrus and the Carpenter ($$$$) – Come to check out their rotating daily menu. I’ve heard mixed reviews about the food. It’s “well regarded” yet somewhat “overpriced.”
• Wasabi ($$) – They offer regular and late-night happy hour. Get a chirashi bowl with steak-sized sushi for only $15! The sushi is also VERY fresh. It’s definitely a place where you will get the most bang for your buck. I am amazed at how much they offer for such a great price. I highly recommend going for dinner and drinks.
• Windy City Pie ($$) – Shamelessly emulates the deep dish pizza from Pequod’s Pizza in Chicago. I love their caramelized crust. It’s located next to the zoo if you want to plan a daytime adventure for the family.
• Xi’an ($) – I am obsessed with Xi’an. Come here for some hand-pulled noodles and fresh garlic cucumber salad. It’s a close knockoff to the NYC Xi’an Famous Foods chain. They now have a location in downtown Seattle as well!

Related: Best Things I’ve EVER Eaten in Seattle

Where to Get Dessert in Seattle

• 85 Degree: This Chinese bakery offers fluffy pastries, cakes, and milky beverages. Expect to wait in line for some baked goods that are well worth the wait. Don’t forget to download the app, use coupons and earn points toward free food.
• Bambu – Enjoy iced Vietnamese desserts here. The jellies, beans, and milk are mixed together to create chè, a cool sweet iced dessert that helps keep the heat at bay.
• Dahlia Bakery – Located downtown and owned by restauranteur Tom Douglas. Dahlia Bakery offers a slew of treats in its tiny storefront. They also have some gluten-free options.
• Flintcreek Cattle Co. – The Brûléed Banana Sundae is one of the BEST THINGS I’ve EVER eaten in Seattle. You have to get this if you love dessert. 
• Full Tilt Ice Cream – A grungier ice cream joint with ice cream flavors such as Thai iced tea, Ube, and coffee Oreo. Try leaving without buying a pint. Doesn’t happen.
• Macrina Bakery
• Molly Moon’s – A local ice cream parlor with multiple locations around Seattle. There’s always a line out the door. My favorite flavor is honey lavender.
• Pie Bar – For late-night sweets, Pie Bar is perfect. They have sweet and savory pies as well as pie-flavored cocktails. You can also order pies to go from the window sill.
• Salt & Straw – Originally from Portland, Oregon, Salt & Straw has made their way into Seattle. There is always a long line and they feature flavors that are local to the area. Expect to pay ~$8 for a cone and a single scoop.
• Theo’s Chocolate – Head into Theo’s for chocolate samplings and a tour of their chocolate factory. Book a tour here. Cost of the tour is $10.
• Top Pot Donuts – Seattle’s quintessential donut stop. We’re obsessed with the chocolate cake donuts here. It’s so good!

Best Coffee in Seattle

• Cafe Hagen – A Scandanavian-style cafe and bakery. Come here to enjoy their pastries, bread, and aromatic coffee beverages. They even sell houseplants and multiple locations around town.
• Caffe Vita – Come here for the Pac-Nor, similar to a cortado but made with steamed half and half instead of milk. Their cold brew is also delish!
• Conduit – Canlis serves Conduit coffee. Worth a visit if you’re in the Seattle area during the week.
• Herkimer – One of our favorite lattés is made here.
• Moore Coffee – They serve up a delicious horchata latte and even decorate the foam with cute bears and other creatures. Hours are inconsistent, so call them before heading in.
• Storyville – Sign up for their e-mail list and get a FREE bag of coffee or mug depending on their current promotion.
• Starbucks – We recommend visiting the original store in Pike Place Market, just to say you did it, and then heading over to the Starbucks Roastery in Capitol Hill to enjoy some coffee-based cocktails. 

Where to Drink in Seattle

• Bar Sabine – This bar is located in the back of Café Sabine in the Ballard neighborhood. They have an uber-cute menu of anime-themed cocktails. Opens from 4pm-2am and is worth visiting.
• Bathtub Gin – One of our favorite cocktail bars. It’s speakeasy-style and located in an alley in the boiler room of an old converted hotel building. Bathtub Gin is located in Belltown very close to Have a Heart.
• Belltown Provisions – Erected in 2022, this bar has quickly become a new mainstay in Belltown’s drinking scene. We love the Busan Star, which is a cocktail made with matcha and cold brew. 
• Canon – Canon offers craft cocktails that are theatrical and a whiskey list with selections dating as far back as the 1800s for $1,000 a pour. It’s a fancy place. Dress up and bring a date with you. During busy hours, you may have to wait for your turn.
• Chuck’s Hop Shop – If you love craft beer, you will love Chuck’s!
• Doctor’s Office – This cozy little bar offers classic cocktails and creative concoctions for whatever ails you. We did a side-by-side tasting of Cynar from the present day and against a bottle from the 1960s! Reservations are highly recommended.
• The Fog Room – This bar is located on the rooftop of The Charter Hotel by Hilton. The rooftop is on the 16th floor and has a cocktail menu with strong drinks and a noteworthy list of craft beers.
• Foreign National – Love this cocktail haven located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. Reservations are required. Groups of 6 max.
• Fremont Brewery – Fremont has a large outdoor area and is worth a visit if you’re here any time of the year. It’s very close to Gas Works Park. Dogs are welcome.
• The Hideout – Since 2005, the Hideout has been offering craft cocktails and an opportunity to buy artwork from local artists. Their walls are covered in artwork that is stimulating and sometimes controversial.
• Holy Mountain – We are so lucky to live next to a brewery that makes every style of beer very well. Come in for a sour or stout beer. My favorite sour beer of theirs is Sacrament.
• Inside Passage – A bar hidden inside another bar. This nautical-themed speakeasy is worth visiting. Their drinks are a sight to see. Arr matey!
• Full Throttle – A craft beer bottle shop located in Georgetown. Tell our friend, John we referred you!
• Jarrbar – A tiny and adorable Spanish bar serving tin canned meats and Iberico ham (jamon). It’s located just below Pike Place Market. Their cocktails are strong and delicious. Come in for happy hour!
• Outlander Brewery – A Fremont brewery built in a Victorian-style home. Explore the ground and top floors. In the Summer they have outdoor shows and sometimes a DJ on top of a bus. Dogs are always welcome!
• Percy’s & Co. – Enjoy a variety of cocktails and comfort food items at this Ballard bar. Our favorite is the Spicy Tomatillo.
• Pine Box – A former funeral home converted into a craft beer tavern. Bruce Lee had his funeral here.
• Roquette – A dimly lit art deco bar that serves some strong and creative beverages. It’s great for date night or an intimate evening with friends. Reservations are required.
• Schilling Cider House – Located in Fremont very close to Cafe Turko and The Fremont Troll is a cider house worth visiting. Try their seasonal flavors that sometimes use jalapenos, pineapples, roses, and other interesting ingredients.
• Tavern Law – Here you’ll be able to find a speakeasy upstairs called Needle and Thread. You’ll have to use the phone to call your way in. It gets busy at night so come early if you want a chance to go up.
• Unicorn Bar – A fun and funky bar located in Capitol Hill Neighborhood. Temporarily trade your ID in to rent the bejeweled Unicorn helmet from the bartenders. If you’re hungry, order the potato balls. They’re unbelievable.
• Urban Family Brewing – Craft brewery located in the Magnolia neighborhood that produces a variety of styles including sour beer and IPAs. Dogs are welcome!
• Whiskey Bar – Another great cocktail bar that offers bar food and local art for sale.
• Zig Zag Cafe – Located south of Pike Place Market, Zig Zag offers delicious cocktails with an option for Dealer’s Choice. They also offer Mediterranean fare.

Related: Best Craft Cocktails Bars in Seattle

What to Smoke

Did you know consuming cannabis is legal in Seattle? Recreational cannabis stores offer flower, distillate/vape, topical and edible options. Here are some of our favorite picks for recreational weed. Keep in mind that cannabis cannot be consumed in public.

• Have a Heart
• Lux
• Uncle Ike’s – You gotta get the yummy pineapple gummy edibles here. They’re AMAZING.

Transportation

• By Train: The best way to get downtown is to take the Link Light Rail from SeaTac Airport (SEA) to Downtown Seattle. It’s only $3.75 each way and takes approximately 45 minutes from the airport to get to City Center. You can buy a card (which costs $1) or use the Transit Go Ticket App to purchase and redeem tickets via your mobile phone.
• By Bus: Once you are Downtown, you can take the bus pretty much anywhere, including to the east side/Bellevue. It costs $2.75 per person during peak hours and $2.50 during non-peak. Tickets are valid for multiple transfers over a 90 minute period. You can pay cash (must have exact change), get an ORCA card, or use the Transit Go Ticket App to buy tickets. There are kiosks you can use to buy an ORCA card. Multiple people can use one ORCA card at once. You just need to let your bus driver know. For bus times and directions, we recommend using Google Maps to get around.
• Rideshare: You can download a shared car service called Uber or Lyft. A ride from the airport will cost $45-60 USD each way. A ride around town will be no more than $10-16 USD one way. 
• Rent a Car: With a car, you can easily explore the East Side (Bellevue, Renton, Kirkland), visit Mount Rainier, or go on one of the many beautiful hikes in the Seattle area. Use the Pay by Phone App to pay for parking throughout town. There is also free evening parking at the most amazing parking Garages after 5 PM.
• Bike: Certain parts of Seattle can be a little hilly but Seattle has designated bike lanes throughout the city. Please enjoy them!

Accommodation

Lodging in Seattle is especially expensive during Summer because everyone wants to visit when the weather is great. All the neighborhoods are safe to stay in. Come in the Fall or Spring when prices are more affordable.

Hotels we recommend staying in while you’re visiting Seattle:

• Moxy Hotel – Rooms are studio sized but you are very close to many attractions.
• Palladin Hotel is partnering with Bloomis in UVillage Mall to offer a Stay & Style promotion that comes with a $200 credit to shop at Bloomies PRIVATELY. The deal is amazing and you should definitely check it out!
• Sound Hotel – We stayed at this Hilton property and LOVED it. The rooms are chic and it’s located centrally Downtown and across from one of our favorite sushi spots, FOB Sushi Bar.
• W Seattle – We love the W Seattle! They have their FACES rooms which have murals designed by local artist Morgan Zion. Each face represents a different neighborhood in Seattle and gives you access to Seattle’s hidden gems.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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You can also opt to stay in an AirBnB. Find affordable accommodation within various Seattle neighborhoods. I recommend staying Downtown (Belltown, South Lake Union, Pioneer Square), or in Queen Anne, Ballard, Interbay, Capitol Hill, and Greenlake. 

Use Booking.com or Agoda.com to find cheap hotel deals. Both sites have real reviews and photos of accommodations so that you know exactly where you’ll be staying.

Seattle Travel Guide MAP

Use our Seattle travel guide map to plan your trip. We listed all our favorite spots to visit in the Seattle area. We also included some day trips and lodging recommendations. 

And with that, I welcome you to Seattle! That’s it for our Complete Seattle Guide. I hope you enjoy my city as much as we do. Please let us know what your favorites are in the comments section of this post.

Enjoy our wonderful AQI of 30!

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