48(ish) Hours in Seattle, Washington

Seattle can hold a reputation for being dark and brooding but, even in the rain, the city is seriously gorgeous. We were very lucky the sun came out to visit us both days and it truly changes the city to be not just gorgeous but truly magical. I decided if I didn’t have seasonal depression, I’d pack my bags an move tomorrow! While our time in Seattle was short, we did a lot! And here’s how we did it!

How to do Seattle in 48hrs:

We chose to stay downtown in a neighborhood called Belltown. It was close to the waterfront and Pikes Place Market. It was easy walking access to some of Seattle’s top sights! Hello, saving money on Ubers!

Hotel specifics:

Hotel Five by StayPineapple

Very comfortable, accommodating, and location was prime. Prices were very reasonable for April. I would definitely stay at this hotel again or another StayPineapple property in the future.

Day 1:

April is still technically off season for tourists in Seattle. We felt that it was never super crowded anywhere which we both really appreciated. Start the day at Pikes Place Market! Get there early (around 9am) to beat the crowds. This market is WAY bigger than I ever thought and just as charming. Get a photo of the first Starbucks (the line will be a million miles long), enjoy fresh cut flowers, and flying fish. Some highlights of Pikes Place Market are:

• The gum wall

• The first Starbucks

• Rachel’s ginger beer

• Public market sign

• The famous flying fish market

• Fresh fruits, veggies, and flowers

If you are visiting in peak cherry blossom season, head to the University of Washington campus quad to gaze at these incredibly beautiful flowers. Unfortunately, we missed peak by a few days so we didn’t get to experience them in all their glory. Still worth the trip, the campus is gorgeous.

After a power nap, we walked (in the sun!!!) to the Space Needle & Chilulli glass gardens. You can save a couple bucks and buy a duel ticket! We were so lucky the sun came out before heading to the top of the space needle... it make our photos extra magical. The revolving floor was extra trippy but essential for the overall experience. We only had to wait in line for a short time, which in peak season could eat up a better part of your day.

Right next door is the chilulli glass museum. This was not on our “must do list” until our Uber driver said it was one of the coolest things to do in the city. It’s a short museum, but the outdoor portion is so beautiful. You can get some crazy cool photos if you go at an off time.

We had just enough time to grab some dinner and hit the hay before another full day!

Day two:

Treat yourself to a little extra sleep this AM before grabbing breakfast. Might I suggest Biscuit Bitch... this iconic Seattle restaurant has three locations around the city including Pike Place and Belltown! After eating head down the the waterfront for an Argosy Harbor Cruise. This cruise was a highlight for us! Although the weather was classic Seattle, we got amazing skyline views as well as some Seattle history! After lovely views on the Puget Sound, head down the block for more water views on the Seattle Great Wheel! I’m a sucker for a good Ferris wheel and I’d never been on one that was totally enclosed. You get three full rotations on the wheel, which lasts about 15 minutes. The line fore this was extra short as well.

Next, head up to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery. This was the highlight for me honestly. There are only a handful of reserve roasters in the world! This place is like Starbucks heaven for a Starbucks fanatic, like myself. They have food, coffee, drinks, and treats. Plus some pretty awesome Starbucks memerobelia. If you’re lucky, you may spot them roasting the coffee beans! This was the busiest place we went. It was a little overwhelming at first but it wasn’t super unmanageable. Don’t let the crowds discourage you, this place was awesome!!

Last but not least!!! Head to Kerry Park for some of the most incredible views of downtown Seattle. If it’s clear you may catch a glimpse of Mount Rainier... she was hiding while we were there. But the photos we took are some of my favorite from our trip, this is definitely a must do! Fun Fact: a lot of the Grey’s Anatomy skyline shots were taken here!

Overall, Seattle can be a little moody... but aren’t we all?! I loved living like Meredith Grey for the weekend and seeing this iconic water city for myself. This mid-sized city was clean, walkable and we felt so so safe! Another check off the bucket list for me!

Thanks for reading & until next time,

meg✨