If you find yourself with only 24 hours to explore Seattle, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. Make the most of your time with our guide to Seattle in one day. From classic diners to stunning city views, here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time in the city that’s basically a more put-together version of Portland. So, put on your walking shoes and leave your umbrella at home!
Seattle in One Day
Beth’s Cafe
Start your day early by hitting Beth’s Cafe – it’s your classic American diner and, at this point, a Seattle institution. Located right next to Green Lake, the cafe offers a legendary 12-egg omelet (you can also get the more manageable 6-egg version), bottomless coffee, and, most importantly, paper and crayons. The walls are plastered with drawings by customers. It’s a great way to bridge waiting time and perpetuate yourself in one of Seattle’s most celebrated establishments. Plus, Green Lake is a great place to take a little digestive walk to recover from however many eggs you managed to devour.
Pike Place Market
There is a reason why you find Pike Place in every Seattle guide. I’m sorry that this one is no exception. Yes, it is touristy, crowded, and overwhelming at times. So, here’s a small sampling to make your Pike Place experience a little more manageable. Inside the BLMF Literary Saloon, books are stacked up to the ceiling – new and used! It’s endless browsing, fair prices, and a dusty atmosphere (in a pleasant way). If you find your way outside, watch out for the flying fish. You’ll more than likely see the fish vendors throwing their precious sea creatures around. Grab some lunch at the fabulous Italian restaurant Pasta Casalinga. Their handcrafted pasta is like nothing you’ve had before. They regularly offer Pasta Pomodoro and lasagna, plus seasonal options from the sea and the farm. If you feel more like a little snack, hit up Mee Sum Pastry and try your way through their hum bao selection.
The Seattle Public Library
Even if you’re not a book person, it is worth a visit! A doable 15-minute walk from Pike Place puts you at the recognizable glass building, and it’s not only impressive from the outside. Take the elevator up to the 10th floor for a view, then stroll through endless book aisles and get dizzy in the red room on the 4th floor. It’s calmingly quiet though, so don’t wear squeaky shoes.
Ferry Trip
When in Seattle, you’ll want to take the ferry at some point. There are a few options: Bainbridge Island, Vashon Island, Bremerton, or Kingston. Kingston is a great choice. It is a short 30-minute ride on the ferry. On a sunny day, you can see Mt. Rainier in all its glory. In Kingston, you should treat yourself to some MORA ice cream. If you don’t fancy spending too much time there, the ferry ride alone is worth just as much, if only to get a different perspective on Seattle and a glimpse of the flora and fauna surrounding the city.
Dinner
If the weather cooperates, enjoy some fish and chips from Ivar’s Fish Bar on Northlake Way. That store offers a bayside patio with the same view as Gas Work Park: skyline and sunset! If the car noises bother you, just pretend it’s the waves crashing. And if you’re not a fan of the industrial vibe down there, head to Gas Work Park – industrial as well but with a touch of sweet greenery.
