Day Trips Washington State

DAY TRIP: SEATTLE

This year I decided to switch up my plans for the summer, which usually includes one or two international trips and instead chose to spend my time taking day trips to U.S. cities that I have never visited. First up on my itinerary of local destinations was Seattle. I took a quick day trip there just last week and had a fabulous time in the seaside city. Below are some highlights from my trip that you won’t want to miss on your next day trip to Seattle.

THE LINK

Downtown Seattle

If you fly into Seattle’s SeaTac International Airport, start by hopping on the Link Light Rail, Seattle’s rapid transit system that services many of the city’s main attractions. Just follow the signs from the terminal to the 4th floor of the parking garage. Tickets are $3.00 for a one way trip. Hop on and enjoy a scenic ride into downtown Seattle.

THE STADIUMS

Century Link Stadium in Seattle

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Sports fans may want to hop off the Link at Stadium Station to explore Century Link Field, home of the Seattle Seahawks and the Safeco Field baseball stadium where the Seattle Mariners play. These impressive structures are swarming with fans on game day, but provide a perfect photo opp in the off season.

INTERNATIONAL DISTRICT

Dragon on a lamp post in Seattle's International District

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Foodies may want to spend some time in Seattle’s International District comprised of Chinatown, Little Saigon and Japantown. Aside from its rich history, visitors can also enjoy a wide variety of delicious cuisine including dumplings at Ping’s Dumpling House, pho at Green Leaf Vietnamese Restaurant and ramen at Tsukushinbo. Yum!

PIONEER SQUARE

Seattle's historic Pioneer Square neighborhood

Food trucks in Seattle's Occidental Square

A must do on any day trip to Seattle is wandering through the city’s historic Pioneer Square neighborhood. Pop into one of the many bars, cafes or boutiques; and if the weather permits, find a shady seat in Occidental Square for a quick snack from one of the many food trucks that line up around noon to cater to locals on lunch break.

THE PIERS

Flags and flowers along a Seattle pier

The Seattle Great Wheel and Sound

Next, head down to the waterfront and “pier hop”. Grab some fresh oysters on Pier 55 at Elliot’s Oyster House then take a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel on Pier 57. The ride is only $15 and offers a bird’s eye view of the city and Sound. Over on Pier 59 you’ll find the Seattle Aquarium, which is in the process of being expanded.

PIKE PLACE MARKET

Seattle's famous Pike Place Market

Inside Seattle's Pike Place Market

If you’re in the mood for shopping, and even if you’re not, Pike Place Market located at Pike Pl. and Pine St. is not to be missed. The 4 story multi-vendor shopping center is one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the U.S. You can find a little bit of everything from fresh produce, flowers and seafood, to art, jewelry and novelty shops.

THE ORIGINAL STARBUCKS

The original Starucks in Seattle, Washington

An afternoon latte in Seattle

Just across from Pike Place Market is the original Starbucks store. Caffeine fiends will jump at the chance to sip on a latte at the flagship location. Just be prepared to wait in a very long line! If you don’t feel like waiting, snap a photo in front of the original then head over to the other Starbucks just a few blocks away at 1st and Pike St.

SPACE NEEDLE

Seattle Space Needle

Perhaps the most iconic attraction in Seattle is the Space Needle located in the Seattle Center. Just a 15 minute walk from Pike Place Market, the needle is neighbored by the unique Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum and the International Fountain. For $27, visitors can head up to the observation deck, which stands over 500ft above the city.

HAPPY HOUR

Seattle's trendy Post Alley

Overlooking the Seattle Sound

There are many local bars and bistros throughout Seattle offering happy hour specials and great food. But if you only have one day, you’ll want to find the most scenic venue. For me, that’s by the water. After exploring the Seattle Center, I headed back toward Pike Place Market for a quick bite and cocktails at Sound View Café. There are several other great options in this area particularly along Post Alley including the Tasting Room and Café Champagne. Unwind with a delicious drink and some fresh seafood after a fun-filled day wending through the city!

Have you ever visited Seattle? What are some other recommendations on what to see and do there?! Share your comments below!

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