Having only one day to spend in Seattle is a blessing and a curse! Yes, you’ll be able to make incredible memories exploring our one-of-a-kind city; but by the day’s end, you’ll wish you had more time. But don’t worry — Totally Seattle has got you covered with the ultimate guide to making the most of your short stay.
As leaders in Private Seattle Tours and Speciality Seattle Experiences, we know the Emerald City inside out. We’re locals who live and breathe Seattle, so we’re perfectly placed to help visitors with schedules and interests of every kind.
Of course, it’s impossible to see everything Seattle has to offer in a single day. And the activities and experiences you want to do will depend on your preferences. But to kickstart your plans, we have provided a sample one-day itinerary below.
Scroll down to find out more! And please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
How to Spend a Morning in Seattle
Start the Day with Coffee
Seattle is a coffee lover’s paradise, and there’s no better way to start your day than with a freshly brewed cup from one of the city’s many independent cafes. You really are spoilt for choice, so wherever you are in Seattle, you won’t be far away from a shot of caffeine.
However, in this Seattle one-day itinerary, we’re heading to Pike Place Market in the morning. This means you can grab your morning coffee and breakfast from local favorites like Ghost Alley Espresso or Anchorhead Coffee!
Join Our Pike Place & Seattle Center Tour
After fueling up in one of Seattle’s most iconic attractions, it’s time to explore it. Our Pike Place & Seattle Center tour is the perfect way to experience the market’s bustling atmosphere and rich history. Led by one of our local guides, wander through the vibrant stalls, watch the famous fishmongers toss their catch, and sample local delicacies like fresh Dungeness crab and creamy clam chowder.
The tour doesn’t stop at Pike Place though. We hop aboard the iconic 1962 monorail and zip up (over the streets!) to Seattle Center, our city’s cultural heart. This 74-acre site is home to some of Seattle’s most famous landmarks, such as the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden & Glass Exhibit.
Your guide will show you around the grounds, leading you on a route that lets you take in the smells, sounds, and rich atmosphere. Along the way, they will show you the entrances to attractions such as Chihuly Garden & Glass Exhibit, the MoPop, and the Space Needle, so you know where to head after the tour if you want to explore more (entrance to attractions is not included in the tour).
By the time you’ve finished exploring the stunning exhibit of blown glass art, you will have worked up an appetite. Luckily, you’re in the right spot for lunch!
The Pike Place & Seattle Center tour starts at 10 am, 11 am, and 12 pm daily and lasts for three hours. Of course, you can also join any of our other Private Seattle Tours if you prefer! For example, the Seattle City Tour: History & Landmarks also runs from 10 am, 11 am, and 12 pm daily. The tour length starts at four hours and can be extended for as long as you’d like!
Where to Eat Lunch in Seattle
Seafood Lunch at Seattle Center
After your tour, it’s time to settle that rumbling stomach! Seattle’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean means the seafood here is first-class. And the good news is that several highly rated seafood restaurants are based in Seattle Center, including Matt’s Fish Basket and Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar.
But there are plenty more delectable cuisines to choose from in the area, such as Mexican, Mediterranean, and Vietnamese. Check out our blog Food to Try When Visiting Seattle for more inspiration!
Hit the Heights at the Space Needle
No trip to Seattle is complete without a visit to the Space Needle. After lunch, take the elevator up to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city, Puget Sound, and the surrounding Cascade Range and Olympic Mountains.
The Loupe Lounge atop the Space Needle has replaced the old SkyCity revolving restaurant, so if you want to sip on an expertly crafted, post-lunch cocktail, there’s no better place!
How to Spend an Afternoon in Seattle
Museum of Pop Culture
Sitting in the Space Needle’s shadow is the architectural wonder of the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP). Designed by the renowned Frank O. Gehry, this striking museum is a tribute to all things pop culture, from music and movies to video games and sci-fi. Explore the interactive exhibits, admire the vast collection of memorabilia, and don’t miss the chance to strum a guitar in the Sound Lab.
Waterfront and Seattle Great Wheel
As the afternoon progresses, head down to Seattle’s picturesque waterfront. Stroll along the piers, where you’ll find a mix of quirky shops, more seafood restaurants, and scenic views of Elliott Bay. One of the highlights of the waterfront is the Seattle Great Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the city and the water. You can also find the captivating Seattle Aquarium and the excellent Wings Over Washington experience here.
Where to Have Dinner in Seattle
Dinner by the Waterfront
After a day of sightseeing, it’s time to relax over a delicious dinner. Naturally, you can enjoy some more exquisite seafood if you’re in the mood! The waterfront is home to several top-notch restaurants where you can enjoy the freshest catch of the day. Elliott’s Oyster House is a local favorite, known for its extensive oyster selection and stunning bay views. Alternatively, The Crab Pot offers a fun and casual dining experience where you can indulge in a seafood feast spread out on your table.
How to Spend an Evening in Seattle
Watch the Sunset at Kerry Park…
As the sun dips toward the horizon, make your way north to Kerry Park for one of the best views in Seattle. This small neighborhood park offers a breathtaking panorama of the city skyline, with the Space Needle front and center and Mount Rainier in the background. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset and capture some postcard-worthy photos.
Check out our blog How to Get Around Seattle as a Tourist to find out more about navigating our city.
…or Catch a Mariners Game
For sports fans, catching a Seattle Mariners game at T-Mobile Park is a fantastic way to spend the evening. During the regular season, you can experience the excitement of Major League Baseball in a lively stadium atmosphere. Don’t forget to try a Seattle Dog, a local specialty featuring a hot dog topped with cream cheese and grilled onions — an unexpected but delicious combination.
Wrap Up Your Amazing Day in Seattle
After an action-packed day, you may just want to head back to your hotel and relax. But to keep the good times rolling, unwind with a nightcap at one of Seattle’s rooftop bars, such as The Nest at Thompson Seattle. Sip a craft cocktail while taking in the city lights and reflecting on your whirlwind adventure.
As we near the end of this guide, you may want some local accommodation tips. Look no further than our Unofficial Seattle Accommodation Guide: Where Should I Stay in Seattle?
Explore Like a Local with Our Private Seattle Tours!
There’s no better way to discover a new city than with a local guide and a flexible itinerary. With our Private Seattle Tours, you can find out what makes our city tick. At Totally Seattle, we don’t offer rushed tourist excursions — we provide immersive, authentic private experiences that are rich and meaningful.
And if you can’t find what you’re looking for in our pre-planned itineraries, we can tailor one of our Seattle customized tours around you!
Do you have any questions for our team? Please just contact us for all the answers you need.
