36 Hours in Seattle

Seattle is in boom mode, and for visitors, that means creative restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and stunning art. Seattle has many attractions and activities to explore, even briefly. Here are some ideas for what you can do in Seattle in 36 hours:

Day 1 in Seattle

• Pike Place Market: This iconic market is a must-visit destination in Seattle. You can explore the stalls and shops selling everything from fresh produce and seafood to handmade crafts and artisanal foods. Be sure to stop by the fishmongers and watch them toss the fish!
• Space Needle: Take a ride up to the top of the Space Needle for breathtaking views of Seattle and the surrounding mountains. You can also explore the observation deck and the rotating restaurant.
• Chihuly Garden and Glass: This museum showcases the stunning glass art of local artist Dale Chihuly. You can explore indoor and outdoor exhibits featuring colorful and intricate glass sculptures.
• Seattle Waterfront: Stroll along the waterfront and take in views of Elliott Bay. You can also visit the Seattle Aquarium or take a ferry to nearby islands.

Day 2 in Seattle

• Museum of Pop Culture: This museum celebrates pop culture in all forms, from music and movies to video games and science fiction. You can explore the interactive exhibits and see artifacts from famous musicians and films.
• Seattle Art Museum: This museum features a wide range of art worldwide, including contemporary and indigenous art.
• Fremont neighborhood: This quirky neighborhood is known for its public art, including the famous Fremont Troll sculpture. You can also visit the Fremont Sunday Market, which features crafts, food, and vintage goods.
• Capitol Hill: This neighborhood is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, as well as many bars, restaurants, and shops. You can explore the shops and galleries on Broadway Avenue or relax in one of the neighborhood’s many parks.

Day 3 in Seattle

• Visit the Seattle Japanese Garden: This 3.5-acre garden is located in the Washington Park Arboretum and features traditional Japanese landscaping and design, including ponds, bridges, and a teahouse. It’s a peaceful and serene escape from the city.
• Take a ferry to Bainbridge Island: Catch a ferry from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island, just a 35-minute ride away. Once on the island, you can explore the charming downtown area, visit local wineries and distilleries, and enjoy views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
• Visit the Olympic Sculpture Park: This free park features contemporary sculptures by artists worldwide, as well as beautiful views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound.
• Explore the Central District: This diverse neighborhood is known for its vibrant music and arts scene and its history as a center of African American culture in Seattle. You can visit the Northwest African American Museum, explore the shops and restaurants on Jackson Street, or attend a concert at the historic Washington Hall.
• Go on a food tour: Seattle is known for its delicious and diverse food scene, so consider taking a food tour to sample some of the city’s best bites. Some popular food tours include the Pike Place Market Food Tour, the Capitol Hill Food Walk, and the Chocolate Indulgence Tour.

These are just a few more ideas for what you can do in Seattle on Day 3. As always, it depends on your interests and preferences, so feel free to mix and match or explore other areas and attractions in the city.

More info on 36 Hours in Seattle | The New York Times