Weekend In Seattle
Even if you just have a weekend in Seattle, you can squeeze in a lot. I LOVED the city and didn't want to go home. There was so much more I wanted to do and see, but we saw a lot during our 2 days in Seattle. We visited in mid-September, and the weather was perfect. We also barely found ourselves waiting in line, and almost everywhere we went took reservations. A trip to Seattle is perfect for foodies, architecture buffs, or anyone looking for a great weekend getaway. It's also a great stop while exploring the Pacific Northwest. Regardless of what you decide, you're guaranteed to fall in love with the city. Keep reading for how we spent our weekend in Seattle!
Weekend In Seattle
Day 1:
First EVER Starbucks
If it wasn't for the constant long line outside the store, you'd likely miss it. The first Starbucks does not look like your typical Starbucks from the outside. If you don't feel like waiting in line to get a coffee, but want the photo op: grab a coffee from the Starbucks nearby, head back to the first Starbucks & snap a picture in front with your Starbucks cup.
Space Needle
A weekend in Seattle would not be complete without a visit to one of the most iconic spots in Seattle. To beat the crowd, get there when it opens right at 9am. You can buy tickets in advance OR when you get there. There is also an option to pay a little more to got access to the Chihuly Glass Museum right next door.
Chihuly Glass Museum
This spot exhibits the glasswork of Dale Chihuly and it’s beautiful. You can see the exhibit in about 15 to 20 minutes if you're pressed for time.
Pike Place Market
Another iconic thing to do in Seattle. Pike Place Market is essentially a huge farmer’s market with lots of good food samples to try. They also have fresh fish, flowers, crafts, etc.
Truffle Queen
While perusing Pike Place, check out Truffle Queen for a $10 wine (3 pours) + truffle tasting. This spot is super welcoming and cozy.
Pike Place Chowder
For lunch, walk up the alley from Pike’s Market and head to Pike Place Chowder. The line always seems long, but you'll likely only wait 8-10 minutes, even around the lunch hour. The clam chowder is award-winning and delicious. They say they have been asked not to compete in any more nationwide competitions because they have won so much. There is also another location in the mall if that fits better with your schedule.
Rachel’s Ginger Beer
A few doors down from Pike’s Chowder is Rachel’s Ginger Beer. They have a ton of specialty-made ginger beers. The black currant ginger beer and pink guava ginger beer are delicious.
Gum Wall
Walking distance from Pike’s Place, you can head to the Gum Wall, though it's more of a gum "alley". Obviously very iconic.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Take an Uber from Pike’s Place and head to Starbucks Reserve. It's like Starbucks’ version of Willy Wonka’s factory.
Terra Plata
If you're looking for a drink on a rooftop with a fun vibe, walk over to Terra Plata. This spot is right across the street from the Starbucks Reserve.
Happy Hour @ The Nest Rooftop
Perfect spot to grab a drink around happy hour, listen to a fun DJ, and look at the Seattle skyline.
Fog Room
Another great rooftop bar about a 1 minute walk from The Nest. It’s more of a rooftop “lounge” than a spot where you would party with a bunch of friends. Get the deviled eggs if you like Salmon and Fish Eggs, and enjoy the view downtown. But if you only have time for one during your trip to Seattle, I would recommend The Nest.
Six Seven Restaurant @ Sunset
This restaurant is inside the Edgewater hotel and right on the water. The outdoor area is first come/first serve, so grab a table and watch the sunset while sipping on a cocktail. I loved this spot!
Dinner @ Shuckers
If you just have a weekend in Seattle, Shuckers is a must for dinner. Shuckers has an old-school feel and is known for its (duh) oysters.
DAY 2:
Skillet Diner
Great spot for a delicious breakfast. Be sure to try the Chub sandwich + Breakfast Burrito with Fried Chicken. They also take reservations.
Bike Bainbridge Island
Since just a weekend in Seattle likely won't allow for much exploring outside the city, taking the ferry to Bainbridge Island is the best way to get the full PNW experience. The ferry departs from downtown Seattle and takes about 30 minutes to get to Bainbridge Island. After you get off the ferry, rent bikes from one of the bike rental stores. If you can splurge on the electric bikes, you'll definitely get your money’s worth because you can cover more ground. This is guaranteed to be a highlight of your trip to Seattle - it was ours!
Via Rosa Italian Market + Kitchen
Stop here for lunch during your bike ride on Bainbridge Island and grab a slice of pizza.
Amelia Wynn Winery
Before heading back to the ferry, head to Amelia Wynn Winery for a wine tasting. You'll love the cozy vibe.
Dinner/Drinks @ Westward
This spot is less than a 20 minute drive from downtown. Grab a chair right on the waterfront, sip on a cocktail, and admire the Downtown Seattle skyline. For food, they offer Mediterranean food, with "seafood slant". You'll love the vibe. It was definitely another favorite during our trip to Seattle.
Seattle Mariners Game
If baseball is your thing (and if it is baseball season), catch a Seattle Mariners game. Even if it starts raining, the stadium has a retractable roof.
Rocco’s Pizza
We were surprisingly hungry after the baseball game, so we headed to Rocco's Pizza to conclude our trip to Seattle. If you're in the mood for a late night slice of pizza, head to Rocco's. Try a slice of one of their specialty pizzas, Stacey + Tina’s Night Out, and you won't be disappointed.
The Quick List
Day 1
Coffee @ first ever Starbucks
Space Needle & Chihuly Glass Museum
Pike Place Market
Truffle Queen
Pike Place Chowder
Rachel’s Ginger Beer
Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Drinks @ Terra Plata
Drinks @ Fog Room
Sunset @ Six Seven Restaurant
Dinner @ Shuckers
Day 2
Breakfast @ Skillet Diner
Take ferry and bike Bainbridge Island
Lunch @ Via Rosa Italian Market + Kitchen
Amelia Wynn Winery
Dinner/Drinks @ Westward
Seattle Mariners Game
Late Night Dinner @ Rocco’s Pizza
Looking for more?
*Check out my Seattle travel guide post
*Check out my Seattle travel guide which includes where to stay, how to get around, 30+ things to do, and 50+ places to eat/drink during your weekend in Seattle
*This post is not affiliated with any of the mentioned establishments.