Seattle

Seattle is a beautiful city with a fantastic mix of urban life and stunning natural landscapes. Let’s dive into a 6-day itinerary that focuses on parks, green spaces, and the great outdoors, while skipping the museums. Get ready for some fresh air and beautiful views!

Day 1: Explore Downtown and Waterfront Parks

Morning:

• Start your day with a stroll through Pioneer Square. This historic district is charming and has some lovely parks and public art.
• Grab a coffee at a local café, like Storyville Coffee.

Afternoon:

• Head to Olympic Sculpture Park. This waterfront park features large-scale sculptures and beautiful views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Take your time walking along the trails and enjoying the art.
• Have lunch at Elliott’s Oyster House nearby for some fresh seafood.

Evening:

• Walk along the Seattle Waterfront. You can enjoy the views of the ferries and the iconic Great Wheel.
• End your day at Pike Place Market. While it’s not a park, the market has outdoor spaces and is a great place to grab dinner and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Day 2: Discover the Green Spaces of Capitol Hill

Morning:

• Start with breakfast at Tilikum Place Café for some delicious Dutch babies.
• Afterward, head to Volunteer Park. Explore the park’s beautiful gardens, and don’t miss the conservatory and the water tower for a great view of the city.

Afternoon:

• Walk over to Cal Anderson Park. This park has a lovely open space, a pond, and plenty of spots to relax. Bring a book or just enjoy the people-watching.
• Grab lunch at Pike/Pine corridor where you can find a variety of eateries.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in Capitol Hill, like Spinasse for some amazing Italian cuisine.
• If you’re up for it, check out a local bar or café for some live music to wrap up your day.

Day 3: A Day in Discovery Park

Morning:

• Head to Discovery Park, Seattle’s largest green space. Start with a hearty breakfast at The Fat Hen in Ballard before making your way to the park.
• Spend the morning hiking the trails. The Loop Trail is a great option that takes you through forests and along the beach.

Afternoon:

• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park’s scenic spots, or head to Ballard Locks nearby to watch the boats and see the fish ladder.
• After lunch, explore the West Point Lighthouse and enjoy the stunning views of the Puget Sound.

Evening:

• Head back to Ballard for dinner. Try The Walrus and the Carpenter for some oysters and small plates.
• If you have energy left, stroll through the Ballard neighborhood and check out some local shops.

Day 4: A Day Trip to Mount Rainier National Park

Morning:

• Get an early start and grab breakfast at Cafe Campagne in Pike Place Market.
• Drive to Mount Rainier National Park (about 2 hours). The views are breathtaking, so be sure to have your camera ready!

Afternoon:

• Spend the day hiking. The Nisqually Vista Trail is a great option for stunning views without being too strenuous. Pack a lunch to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery.
• Explore the park’s visitor center to learn more about the area.

Evening:

• Head back to Seattle and enjoy a casual dinner at Ivar’s Acres of Clams on the waterfront for some classic Pacific Northwest fare.

Day 5: Parks and Views in West Seattle

Morning:

• Start your day with breakfast at Easy Street Records and Café in West Seattle.
• After breakfast, head to Alki Beach. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach with stunning views of the Seattle skyline.

Afternoon:

• Rent a bike or rollerblades to explore the Alki Trail. Stop for lunch at one of the beachside cafes.
• Spend some time at Lincoln Park, which has beautiful trails, beach access, and picnic areas.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at Salty’s on Alki Beach for a fantastic view of the sunset over the city.
• If you’re up for it, take a stroll along the beach after dinner to soak in the views.

Day 6: Nature and Relaxation

Morning:

• Have a leisurely breakfast at Portage Bay Cafe.
• Spend your morning at Kerry Park for one of the best views of the Seattle skyline. It’s a small park, but the view is iconic!

Afternoon:

• Head to Green Lake Park. Walk or bike around the lake, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. You can also rent a kayak if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Grab lunch at a nearby café, like The Green Lake Bar & Grill.

Evening:

• For your final dinner, treat yourself at Canlis for a fine dining experience with a view.
• If you have time, take a sunset walk at Gas Works Park to cap off your Seattle adventure with a stunning view of the city skyline against the setting sun.

And there you have it! A week filled with parks, nature, and the beautiful outdoors of Seattle. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌲🌊🏙️