Itinerary

Seattle is a fantastic base for outdoor adventures, and with your interests in national parks, the San Juan Islands, and whale watching, I’ve crafted an exciting 6-day itinerary just for you. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Seattle & Explore the City

Morning:

• Arrive in Seattle and check into your hotel. If you’re staying downtown, you’ll be close to many attractions!
• Grab a hearty breakfast at Tilikum Place Café for some delicious Dutch babies.

Afternoon:

• Head to Pike Place Market. Stroll through the market, watch the fishmongers throw fish, and don’t forget to visit the original Starbucks!
• Enjoy lunch at one of the market’s many eateries. Try some clam chowder from Pike Place Chowder.

Evening:

• Take a ride up to the Space Needle for stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
• For dinner, check out The Pink Door for a delightful Italian meal with live entertainment.

## Day 2: Olympic National Park Adventure

Morning:

• Early breakfast and then hit the road to Olympic National Park (about a 2-hour drive).
• Start at the Hoh Rain Forest. Take a hike on the Hall of Mosses Trail to immerse yourself in the lush greenery.

Afternoon:

• Head to Hurricane Ridge for breathtaking mountain views. There are several trails here, so choose one that suits your energy level, like the Hurricane Hill Trail.
• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery.

Evening:

• Drive back to Seattle. If you’re up for it, stop by Alki Beach for a sunset stroll and dinner at Salty’s on Alki Beach for some fresh seafood with a view.

## Day 3: San Juan Islands & Whale Watching

Morning:

• Take an early ferry from Anacortes to San Juan Island (make sure to book your ferry tickets in advance!).
• Once you arrive, head to Friday Harbor and grab breakfast at The Whale Museum Café.

Afternoon:

• Join a whale-watching tour! Companies like San Juan Safaris or Island Adventures offer fantastic opportunities to see orcas and other marine life.
• After your tour, explore Friday Harbor. Visit local shops and grab lunch at The Market Chef.

Evening:

• Enjoy a leisurely dinner at The Duck Soup Inn or Coho Restaurant before catching the ferry back to Anacortes and returning to Seattle.

## Day 4: Mount Rainier National Park

Morning:

• Depart early for Mount Rainier National Park (about a 2-hour drive).
• Stop at Longmire for breakfast at the National Park Inn.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Paradise area, where you can hike the Skyline Trail for stunning views of the mountain and wildflower meadows.
• Pack a lunch to enjoy in the park.

Evening:

• Head back to Seattle. If you have time, stop by Chihuly Garden and Glass for a mesmerizing art experience.
• Dinner at Canlis for a fine dining experience with a view (reservations recommended).

## Day 5: North Cascades National Park

Morning:

• Early breakfast and then drive to North Cascades National Park (about a 2-hour drive).
• Start at the North Cascades Visitor Center to get maps and information.

Afternoon:

• Hike the Cascade Pass Trail for stunning views of the peaks and glaciers. It’s a moderate hike, so be prepared for some elevation gain!
• Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature.

Evening:

• Drive back to Seattle. If you’re up for it, stop at Skagit Valley for some local produce or flowers.
• Dinner at The Walrus and the Carpenter in Ballard for some of the best oysters in town.

## Day 6: Relax and Departure

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Cafe Campagne in Pike Place Market.
• Spend your last morning exploring any spots you may have missed, like the Seattle Art Museum or Museum of Pop Culture.

Afternoon:

• If time allows, take a stroll through Discovery Park for some final views of Puget Sound.
• Grab a light lunch at Fremont Brewing or Ballard Pizza Company.

Evening:

• Head to the airport for your departure, or if you have a late flight, enjoy one last coffee at Storyville Coffee.

And there you have it! A perfect blend of city exploration, national parks, and outdoor adventures. Enjoy your trip to Seattle and all the natural beauty it has to offer! 🌲🐋✨