Your First Trip to Seattle:
The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide
Perched between Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, you’ll find Seattle, Washington—known as the Emerald City for its lush green landscapes. When my boyfriend and I were trying to decide on a vacation spot, we wanted somewhere with plenty to do and see, and Seattle fit the bill perfectly.
Seattle is famous for its iconic Space Needle, thriving coffee culture (can you say Starbucks?), and as the birthplace of legends like Jimi Hendrix and grunge music. The city blends natural beauty, innovation, and rich culture in a way few places can. It offers waterfront views and sprawling parks, eclectic neighborhoods, world-class museums, and bustling markets.
Originally a humble lumber town in the mid-19th century, Seattle boomed during the Klondike Gold Rush, serving as a gateway for miners heading north. Today, it’s a bustling hub of tech innovation, creative arts, and outdoor adventures, with Mount Rainier and the San Juan Islands just a short trip away.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to discover more, Seattle’s mix of urban energy and scenic charm makes the Emerald City a destination that delights and inspires.
WHEN TO VISIT SEATTLE: TIMING IS EVERYTHING
When planning your trip to Seattle, timing can make all the difference regarding weather, crowds, and costs. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide when to go:
Best Months to Visit: May, June, September, and early October are ideal. The weather is usually mild and pleasant, with less rain than during the winter months. Plus, you’ll avoid the peak summer tourist crowds while enjoying plenty of outdoor activities.
The Rainy Season: November through March is Seattle’s rainy season, with gray skies and more frequent drizzles. While you can still enjoy the city’s indoor attractions and cozy coffee shops, you’ll miss the outdoor fun. On the plus side, this is the best time for lower hotel rates and a quieter city vibe, so if you don’t mind bringing a raincoat, it could be a great way to save.
Months to Avoid (If Possible): July and August are peak tourist and Alaskan cruise season, with Seattle buzzing with visitors—and prices for hotels, attractions, and flights are higher. (I visited in mid-August because I had a week of use-it-or-lose-it vacation time, and while the weather was fantastic, everything was way more expensive than I expected.)
GETTING TO SEATTLE & NAVIGATING THE CITY
How to Get There by Plane
If you plan a trip to Seattle and live beyond driving distance, you’ll likely fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), known locally as Sea-Tac. It’s the region’s primary airport, about 15 miles south of downtown Seattle.
With the Light Line rail connecting the airport to downtown, you can easily reach the city center in about 35 minutes, avoiding the hassle of traffic and the expense of parking.
Easy & Affordable Ways to Get Around the City
Exploring Seattle is easy and affordable if you know how. With public transportation options, walkable neighborhoods, and alternatives to rideshares, you can explore the city while saving a few dollars. Here’s how to get around like a local:
Walk Whenever Possible: Seattle’s compact downtown and connected neighborhoods are very walkable. Strolling through areas like Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square, and the waterfront lets you experience the city’s unique vibe up close. Plus, it’s a great way to save on transit costs and get a bit of exercise. [Here are other ways to stay healthy when traveling.]
Take the Light Rail: Seattle’s Light Rail system is one of the most convenient ways to get around, especially for trips between the airport and downtown. The Light Rail is affordable, avoids traffic, and offers stops near popular attractions, making it an easy choice for locals and tourists.
Use the Orca Pass: This handy card provides access to buses, the Light Rail, and even some ferries, making it an ideal option for getting around the city without breaking the bank. You can pick one up at the airport, a Light Rail station, or select convenience stores around Seattle.
✨Pro Tip: Don’t add too much money to your card at once – you can’t get back what you don’t spend.
Rent an Electric Scooter or Bike: If you prefer not to walk, electric scooters and bikes are available throughout the city. They’re a fun, eco-friendly option, perfect for shorter trips (and when you can’t walk another step after a long day of sightseeing). Download the app for a nearby rental service, unlock a scooter or bike, and zip around the city. (Remember to stick to bike lanes and park them in designated spots when you’re done.)
Check Taxi Rates vs. Rideshares: During peak hours, rideshare services like Uber or Lyft can get pricey. Compare rates with traditional taxis—sometimes, taxis are more affordable, especially when traffic is light.
BEST PLACES TO EAT: WHERE TO SAVOR SEATTLE’S FLAVORS
Now, let’s talk food because Seattle knows how to treat your taste buds.
Local Favorites
If you stroll around Pike Place Market, you’ll find many different food options. Local favorites include Beechers Cheese (I’ve heard their grilled cheese sandwich is amaze-balls), Piroshky Piroshky Bakery, and the Seattle Dumpling Company.
If you like seafood, then Pike Place Chowder Company is a must! Tucked away down Post Alley, this popular spot offers chowders so delicious that you’ll savor every spoonful and want to go back for more. We ordered the Chowder Sampler (4 6-ounce cups of New England Clam Chowder, Seafood Bisque, Smoked Salmon Chowder, and Crab & Oyster Chowder) so we could taste more than one kind. OMG! They were all really good, but my favorite, hands down, was the smoked salmon chowder. It’s like a warm hug, rich and creamy with a smoky twist. Regardless of your choice, you’ll savor every spoonful.
✨Pro Tip: If there’s a long line when you get there, don’t worry! The line moves quickly. If you don’t want to wait in line, you can order your food To Go using the QR code on the menu and pick it up at the window around the back. You can enjoy your chowder at a table in the nearby seating area or take a short walk down to the waterfront and dine with a view.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you’ve got to try a Seattle Dog. This local favorite is a hot dog with a twist: a grilled sausage topped with cream cheese, sautéed onions, and grilled peppers. Yes, you read that right—cream cheese! It might sound unusual, but when in Rome (or Seattle), right? You’ll find these dogs at food stands and late-night spots all over town, especially near the stadiums and bars. It’s the perfect snack after sightseeing or a night out on the town. Trust me, one bite, and you’ll get why locals swear by this quirky, delicious treat.
We also loved the Thai food at Golden Singha in Seattle’s Belltown neighborhood. The service was fast and friendly, and the food hit all the right notes—delicious, authentic, and affordable. We tried the Pad Thai, which was perfectly balanced and flavorful. The restaurant is just a short walk (about five blocks) from the Space Needle and nearby museums, making it a convenient and tasty stop after sightseeing. It’s hard to top a spot that offers quality, value, and location like this!
High-End Dining
For a more upscale dining experience, you can’t beat Anthony’s Pier 66. The fresh catch and waterfront views make for a perfect date night or celebration dinner. It’s a bit on the fancy side, but it’s worth it if you want to splurge.
I wanted to have one high-end meal while we were on vacation, so my boyfriend and I had dinner at Anthony’s on our last night in Seattle. We had a great experience—absolutely no complaints. Everything was great from start to finish. Our server was friendly and offered recommendations. The taste and presentation of the food were top-notch, and the view of Elliott Bay from our table enhanced our dining experience.
We both really enjoyed our meals! We shared a bowl of Dungeness crab, corn chowder, and fresh bread for our appetizer. For our entrees, I had wild Alaska halibut with peach-mango salsa (pictured), and my boyfriend had wild Alaska king salmon with cornbread pudding and seasonable vegetables. I highly recommend Anthony’s and look forward to visiting again when I return to Seattle.
We had hoped to experience one of Seattle’s popular rooftop restaurants but didn’t get the chance this time. If you love dining with a view, though, Seattle has some fantastic spots: Altitude Sky Lounge in South Lake Union, The Lookout in Capitol Hill, The Nest downtown, or Six Seven Restaurant in Belltown. Each offers a unique perspective of the city and a memorable setting for a meal with a view.
SEATTLE’S TOP SIGHTS & EXPERIENCES
Pike Place Market and Its Famous Attractions
No visit to Seattle is complete without a stop at Pike Place Market. This bustling market is where you can watch the famous fish tossing at Pike Place Fish Market—yes, the fishmongers really DO toss whole fish through the air! It’s a fun (and free) spectacle that’s sure to put a smile on your face.
While you’re there, walk down the stairs near the fish market and take a few minutes to check out the quirky Gum Wall, where thousands of visitors have stuck their chewed gum over the years. It’s gross, it’s sticky, and it’s Instagram-worthy.
Just a short walk down from the market, you’ll find the waterfront area, home to The Seattle Great Wheel, a huge carousel perfect for a nostalgic ride or just enjoying the lively atmosphere. It’s a great spot to take a break and soak in the views of Elliott Bay before continuing your Seattle adventure. And it’s even prettier as day turns to night since the ferris wheel lights up.
Museums for All Interests
Chihuly Garden and Glass is a must for the art lover. The vibrant glass sculptures are a visual treat, and the museum is small enough to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed. It’s like walking through a dream where glass art blooms like flowers—seriously, don’t skip this one. You may even see a glass-blowing demonstration while you’re there. Allow about 1-1/2 hours for your visit to take in all the stunning displays.
And if you enjoy music and movies, The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is right up your alley. With exhibits on everything from sci-fi and fantasy to rock ‘n’ roll, it’s a fun way to nerd out for a few hours. You might even stumble upon a great live music session in their sound lab. Of course, it wouldn’t be complete without an exhibit honoring the late Kurt Cobain and Nirvana. Allow about 2.5 hours for your visit so you can take your time and explore.
Both museums (and the Space Needle) are conveniently located close together and can be accessed by taking the monorail to the Alweg stop. Many other popular museums can be found throughout Seattle, including the Seattle Children’s Museum, the Selfie Museum, the Museum of Flight (Boeing’s HQ is in Seattle), and the Seattle Art Museum.
✨Pro Tip: If you plan to visit multiple attractions, consider a CityPASS for discounted access to popular spots that save you up to 31%. It’s a great way to stretch your sightseeing dollars. You may get a better deal if you purchase it through Groupon, as I did.
Whale Watching: Seattle is also a prime destination for whale watching, thanks to the seasonal migration of orcas, humpback, and gray whales through the Puget Sound. The best time to catch these majestic creatures is typically April through October. I’d heard fantastic things about the tours and how breathtaking it is to see orcas in their natural habitat, but I didn’t get a chance to go during this trip. If it’s on your list, make time for a day trip with a local tour operator to experience this unforgettable Pacific Northwest adventure.
The Best Views of the Seattle Skyline
When it comes to capturing the best views of Seattle’s skyline, you’ve got a couple of great options:
West Seattle: For a different angle, hop on a ferry to West Seattle from the ferry terminal near Alaskan Way and Yesler Way. The ferry ride is budget-friendly and can be paid for using an Orca card. Once you arrive, head to Marination Ma Kai for some fish tacos and other delicious and affordable food. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed meal with a view of the iconic Seattle Skyline and Elliott Bay. It’s a win-win.
Kerry Park: In the Queen Anne neighborhood, Kerry Park provides a stunning, panoramic view of the city skyline, with the Space Needle front and center and the mountains in the background. It’s especially magical at sunset when the city lights start to twinkle, and on a clear day, you can even see Mount Rainier. This is a popular spot with limited parking along the street, so get there before sunset and bring your camera to get your postcard-worthy shot.
Both spots offer incredible photo ops, but each has its own vibe—Kerry Park is perfect for a classic Seattle photo, while West Seattle lets you pair those stunning city views with a laid-back waterfront meal.
Artwork, Architecture, and Hidden Gems
Artwork: Seattle is also home to a vibrant street art scene. You’ll find stunning murals throughout the city—especially in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and the Arts District. If you ride the Light Rail through the SoDo area, watch for the countless murals that line the route on both sides. It’s like an outdoor art gallery that doesn’t cost a thing to enjoy! Snap some photos or videos and soak in the creativity of local artists as you explore.
Another great area to explore is Pioneer Square, one of Seattle’s oldest neighborhoods. Here, you’ll find historic architecture, quirky shops, and hidden alleys perfect for wandering. And don’t miss the chance to visit King Street Station, Seattle’s historic train station. The beautiful architecture and classic design will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time, even if you’re passing through. The park also features unique sculptures.
Check out the Waterfall Garden Park tucked away in Pioneer Square—a peaceful, relaxing spot for eating lunch, meeting a friend, or just unplugging.
Cool But Somewhat Overrated Sights
Seattle has its share of famous landmarks, but not all live up to the hype—at least in my book. Here are a couple of those classic spots that are cool to see but maybe not worth making a top priority:
The Fremont Troll: Tucked beneath the Aurora Bridge in Seattle’s quirky Fremont neighborhood, this massive troll sculpture is one of the city’s most unique pieces of public art. Created from two tons of concrete, steel rebar, and wire, this 18-foot-tall, 13,000-pound sculpture grips an actual Volkswagen Beetle in its enormous left hand.
It’s perfect for adding a quirky twist to your travel photos and a great stop if you’re in the area. However, since it’s such a famous landmark, you’ll probably have to wait a while to get your pictures, especially if kids are around, as they love climbing on it. While it’s a fun and unusual landmark, you won’t need much more than a few minutes to take it all in. It’s a memorable slice of Seattle flair.
The Seattle Space Needle: No doubt, the Space Needle is Seattle’s most famous landmark, and the views from the top are beautiful. But the lines can be long, and the tickets are pricey. If you’re short on time or working with a budget, you might get more bang for your buck by checking out the Sky View Observatory instead. It’s taller, offers a similar panoramic view of the city and mountains, and often has fewer crowds. That said, if you’re a first-time visitor to Seattle, it’s still a bucket-list item—know what you’re getting into!
Starbucks’ Original Location in Pike Place Market: Getting a photo of where the Seattle coffee phenom originated is fun. However, getting coffee or snacks from here may require a long wait (see the long line in the picture below). If you still want to do that knowing this, you do you. Otherwise, snap a photo and get your coffee at Pike Place Coffee. If you’re a die-hard fan of Starbucks, check out the more unique Starbucks Coffee Roastery in the Capitol Hill neighborhood.
Seattle is packed with incredible spots, and while I managed to check off many of them, there are still several places I missed listed by neighborhood:
- Ballard: Ballard Locks, Sleepless in Seattle house (pop culture)
- Capitol Hill: 5th Avenue Theater (architecture)
- Discovery Park Area: West Point Lighthouse
- Downtown: The Spheres (an ultra-modern building at Seattle’s Amazon HQ), Union Station (architecture)
- Fremont: Aurora Bridge
- Wallingford: Gas Works Park
So there you have it—my down-to-earth guide to enjoying Seattle like a pro without breaking the bank. Whether you’re here for the food, the art, or the Pacific Northwest vibe, this city has something for everyone. Ready to explore?
