Discover the enchanting charm of Seattle, Washington – fondly known as the Emerald City!

Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, this stunning gem effortlessly blends urban sophistication with awe-inspiring natural beauty, surrounded by glistening waters, majestic mountains, and lush, evergreen forests. Seattle’s perfect mix of outdoor adventures, cultural landmarks, and innovative spirit will capture your heart. Experience warm hospitality, breathtaking vistas, and the city’s laid-back Pacific Northwest vibe, leaving you inspired and forever connected to the magic of the Emerald City. 🏞

Feel free to steal my weekend itinerary by bookmarking this blog article for your future Seattle adventure! 🛫

BEST HOTEL STAY

Fairmont Olympic Hotel

We spent a wonderful weekend at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel in Downtown Seattle. Built in 1924 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this pet-friendly hotel features stunning architecture, innovative culinary experiences, and exceptional service. They were kind enough to provide umbrellas for our use during the rainy weather. The hotel’s classic elegance combined with mid-century modern flair creates a truly memorable atmosphere. You can enjoy a workout at the Health Club and steam or sauna, relax by an indoor pool, get a spa treatment at Penelope & The Beauty Bar, dine at The George (a modern brasserie serving seasonal ingredients, fresh seafood from local waters, and the finest meats and produce), and go shopping. Its convenient location is just a short walk from Pike Place Market, the Seattle Art Museum, and the Great Wheel on the waterfront. Book your stay and experience the perfect blend of sophistication and comfort. 🏨

Their ADA-compliant rooms and suites are carefully designed to provide maximum comfort and safety throughout your stay. For more information about accessibility, click here. If you have any specific accessibility requests, please don’t hesitate to contact the hotel.

I enjoyed a signature facial, while Daniel indulged in the Gua Sha Glow Massage at Penelope & The Beauty Bar, a premier spa nestled inside the historic Fairmont Olympic Hotel. I highly recommend it! My esthetician was amazing – she took the time to ask about my skin concerns, listened to what I wanted, and my skin was absolutely glowing afterward. The spa offers the most advanced skincare and body treatments, committed to delivering top-quality care, making it the go-to luxury spa for guests. Their services include customized European facials, micro-puncture, French detox body wraps, massages, cupping, natural nails, hair, makeup, dermaplaning, microneedling, volume lash extensions, a jade-lined infrared pod, CooLifting cryo-facials, non-surgical facelifts, and medi-spa treatments. 💆‍♀️

TOP ATTRACTIONS

Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour

Uncover Seattle’s hidden history with Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour, a fascinating journey beneath the city’s streets. Explore the hidden abandoned pathways left behind after the Great Fire of 1889, once part of Seattle’s bustling business district.

The tour dives into Seattle’s past, particularly focusing on the 19th century, when the original street level of the city was much lower. After the fire destroyed much of downtown, city planners decided to raise the streets. Rather than demolishing existing buildings, they built new streets above them, leaving behind an underground network of basements and walkways. These underground spaces were once part of the bustling business district but were gradually forgotten.

Founded by journalist Bill Speidel in the 1960s, this iconic tour offers a unique blend of history, humor, and hidden gems that will change the way you see Seattle. We booked the tour last minute without an interpreter but recommend requesting one to enhance your experience, as we relied on reading the transcript.

Chinatown-International District

Experience the vibrant Filipino culture at Hood Famous Cafe + Bar, a trendy, welcoming spot known for its traditional breads, baked goods, coffee, and specialty drinks. Located in the historic Publix building, once home to Filipino cannery workers and farm laborers, this cafe celebrates the rich history of the Filipino community in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District, which includes Filipino Town. Since opening in 2019, Hood Famous has honored this heritage through its cuisine, warm Filipino hospitality, storytelling, and cultural visibility.

By day, the space serves as a bakery-café offering desserts, baked goods, and light meryenda snacks, along with single-origin Asian-Pacific coffees. By night, it transforms into a cocktail bar featuring pulutan—Filipino bar food.

Fuji Bakery is a local artisan Japanese-French bakery, driven by inspiration and passion.

Since opening in June 2009, Fuji Bakery has filled a gap in Seattle’s culinary scene, offering high-quality Japanese artisan baked goods. From additive-free yeast cultivated in-house to Bourbon vanilla beans and Griottines imported from France, every ingredient is carefully selected. Their dedication to quality, health, and freshness makes Fuji Bakery a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique and delicious experience—whether you’re craving the flavors of Japan or simply looking to treat your taste buds.

Seattle Best Tea is a cozy Taiwanese teahouse offering a wide selection of teas to enjoy on-site or take home.

The founders grew up immersed in tea culture, learning from their Taiwanese parents and grandparents until it became second nature. Since opening their Chinatown business in 1996, they have aimed to share the tranquility, beauty, and well-being of the Way of Tea with their guests. Here, you can explore oolong and other Chinese teas while gaining knowledge in a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere.

KOBO, meaning “artist’s workspace” in Japanese, is an artisan gallery showcasing fine crafts from Japan and the Northwest. Specializing in both traditional and contemporary works, KOBO offers a curated selection of objects and functional pieces in clay, fiber, metal, wood, textile, and paper. The gallery also features the work of small studio artisans from the U.S. and abroad who share a passion for Japanese folk arts and contemporary design, making it a vibrant hub for craftsmanship and creativity.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking world of Dale Chihuly’s glass sculptures at Chihuly Garden and Glass. This extraordinary museum offers a unique blend of art and nature, featuring:

• Glasshouse: A stunning conservatory filled with intricate suspended glass sculptures.
• Garden: A beautifully landscaped outdoor space showcasing Chihuly’s work in harmony with nature.
• Exhibition Space: Eight galleries showcasing Chihuly’s diverse body of work.
• Theatre: A lecture space hosting talks, films, and performances.

As one of the world’s most celebrated glass artists, Dale Chihuly’s work is featured in over 200 museum collections globally. This museum, dedicated entirely to his art, showcases his innovative approach to glassmaking. 😍

Discover the magic of Chihuly Garden and Glass. With its unparalleled collection and immersive atmosphere, it’s a must-see attraction for any Seattle visitor. We received the transcript for the self-guided tour.

Pike Place Market

Discover Pike Place Market, a historic public farmers’ market that has been delighting visitors since 1907. This iconic destination offers a vibrant blend of local culture, culinary delights, and entertainment. 🐟

Stroll through the bustling market and explore its diverse offerings. From fresh produce and artisanal goods to the world-famous Pike Place Fish Market and the original Starbucks, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy the charming cobblestone streets, stunning flower stands, and picturesque views of Elliott Bay.

Throughout the year, Pike Place Market hosts a variety of events, including farmers’ markets, festivals, and live music performances. As one of the world’s most visited attractions, it’s a must-see for any Seattle visitor.

Don’t forget to visit the Gum Wall! This quirky attraction, located in Post Alley beneath Pike Place Market, features a colorful tapestry of chewed gum stuck to the bricks. It’s a unique and fascinating sight that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Seattle Art Museum

The Seattle Art Museum (SAM), founded in 1933, is a cultural cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest. Discover a world-class collection of over 25,000 works of art spanning centuries and continents. 🖼

From ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, SAM showcases a rich tapestry of human creativity, including Native American art, African sculptures, Asian paintings, European Renaissance works, and modern installations.

Experience rotating exhibitions featuring world-renowned artists and themes. SAM is also a champion for local Pacific Northwest artists and indigenous cultures. Enjoy guided tours, educational programs, hands-on activities, and a welcoming café and gift shop.

An American Sign Language (ASL) tour is available upon request with at least two weeks notice, depending on interpreter availability. For more information, please email the museum or call (206) 654-3210. To learn more about accessibility, click here.

Seattle Aquarium

The Seattle Aquarium, a beloved waterfront attraction, has just unveiled its stunning new Ocean Pavilion. This state-of-the-art facility showcases the beauty and diversity of marine life from around the globe. Explore the massive reef habitat, home to over 3,500 animals, including sharks and rays. Wander through the towering kelp forests of the Pacific Northwest in the Kelp Forest exhibit. And discover interactive displays that teach you about oceanography, explore different marine habitats, and understand the challenges facing our oceans. Don’t miss the chance to explore the breathtaking wonders of the underwater world at the Seattle Aquarium’s Ocean Pavilion—it’s truly stunning!

ASL tours are available. For any accessibility requests, please call the aquarium at (206) 693-6139 or email [email protected]. You can also visit their accessibility page here.

A special thanks to our tour guide and ASL interpreter for making the experience unforgettable!

Smith Tower

Discover the fascinating history of Smith Tower, once the tallest building west of the Mississippi. Explore interactive exhibits that reveal tales of smuggling, secret codes, and police raids. 🏙

Take a thrilling ride to the top of the 35th floor and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Seattle and Puget Sound. Relax at the Observatory Bar, where you can sip on delicious cocktails and soak in the stunning city lights. We highly recommend visiting Smith Tower for a unique and memorable experience.

Space Needle

Soar above Seattle’s skyline at the iconic Space Needle. This futuristic landmark, built for the 1962 World’s Fair, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Puget Sound, and surrounding mountains.

Ascend to the observation deck, 520 feet above ground, for 360-degree views and a unique perspective from The Loupe, a revolving glass floor. Relax and unwind at the Loupe Lounge, enjoying upscale cocktails, appetizers, and stunning city vistas. For adventure-seekers, the Space Needle Climb is a challenging yet rewarding experience, involving 832 stairs to the tower’s summit.

For accessibility, use the ADA line for priority access to the panoramic views and skip the long wait.

RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATIONS

Kilig

Experience the warmth and joy of Filipino cuisine at Kilig, Seattle’s most anticipated Filipino restaurant. Inspired by the Tagalog word for the butterflies you feel when holding hands with a crush, Kilig offers a casual and welcoming atmosphere perfect for enjoying authentic comfort food. 🍗

Building upon Chef Miranda’s success with Musang, Kilig specializes in traditional Filipino dishes like pancit noodle dishes and rich, slow-cooked bulalo beef soup. Enjoy gluten-free options and a mushroom-based alternative for bulalo to cater to diverse dietary needs.

Noi Thai Cuisine

Craving a taste of Thailand? Look no further than Noi Thai Cuisine! Founded by renowned Chef Noi, this award-winning restaurant offers an unforgettable culinary experience. From classic favorites like pad Thai and green curry to innovative house specialties, every dish is crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced directly from Thailand. 🍤

Indulge in the vibrant ambiance and warm hospitality that make Noi Thai a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. With vegetarian and gluten-free options available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Ramie

Siblings Trinh and Thai Nguyen, creators of the beloved Ba Sa on Bainbridge Island, have opened their new Vietnamese restaurant, Ramie, in Capitol Hill. Inspired by their recent trip to Vietnam, Ramie celebrates the “nhau” tradition of gathering with loved ones for a casual feast. 🍴

Enjoy contemporary Vietnamese cuisine that blends traditional cooking techniques with modern flavors. Pair your meal with a refreshing cocktail from their robust bar program for a truly unforgettable experience.

Revel

Husband-and-wife duo Rachel Yang and Seif Chirchi present Revel, a culinary gem offering “Urban. Comfort. Asian. Street Food.” 😋

Indulge in delectable dishes like pork belly pancakes, chorizo dumplings, and short ribs with daikon, all showcasing Korean flavors prepared with French techniques. Revel’s modern industrial design and bustling bar create a lively atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to savor innovative cuisine in a comfortable setting.

The Bar at Chihuly Garden and Glass

Indulge in a truly unique dining experience at The Bar at Chihuly Garden and Glass. Nestled within the iconic museum, this vibrant bar offers a delightful selection of innovative cocktails and seasonal bites. 🥗

Discover creative drinks crafted with local ingredients, showcasing the flavors of the Pacific Northwest. Pair your cocktail with delicious small plates that highlight the region’s fresh, seasonal bounty. And don’t miss the opportunity to sample a curated selection of local beers, wines, and spirits, supporting the community while enhancing your dining experience.

The George

Step into The George, Fairmont Olympic Hotel’s newly transformed dining room, and discover a blend of modern sophistication and timeless elegance. This iconic space has been a Seattle social hub since 1924, and now, it reemerges as a vibrant brasserie. 🍳

Savor Pacific Northwest cuisine, featuring locally sourced seafood, dry-aged meats, and seasonal produce. The George’s inviting atmosphere, comfortable dining, and semi-private Parlor room make it perfect for any occasion.

With a team of seasoned professionals dedicated to exceptional service, this downtown Seattle gem promises an unforgettable experience. Whether seeking a casual lunch or special dinner, The George is the ultimate destination for refined dining, rich history, and warm hospitality.

BEST PHOTO SPOTS

Fremont Troll

Meet the Fremont Troll, a famous public sculpture located under the the Aurora Bridge. Crafted by artist Steve Badanes and his team in 1990, this larger-than-life whimsical troll is grasping a real Volkswagen Beetle, which appears to be trapped in its grip. The troll was commissioned as part of a community art project to revitalize the area, and it quickly became a beloved landmark. It’s made of concrete and rebar, giving it a unique, rough texture that adds to its charm. The troll’s eye is made of metal, and it has an expressive face that makes it both imposing and playful. Visitors often come to take pictures with the troll, and it has become a popular spot for both tourists and locals. The surrounding area features murals and other public art, enhancing the quirky vibe of Fremont. It’s a fun stop that embodies the city’s artistic spirit! 😀

Gas Work Park

Gas Works Park, a former gas manufacturing plant, offers a unique blend of industrial history and natural beauty. Located on Lake Union, this popular Seattle park boasts stunning views, outdoor activities, and playgrounds. 😊

Greetings from Seattle Mural

The “Greetings from Seattle” mural, created by artist Victor Ving and photographer Lisa Beggs, is part of a nationwide project showcasing U.S. cities. Located in Belltown, it features bold, colorful letters spelling “Seattle,” filled with iconic images like the Space Needle, Mount Rainier, and etc. A popular photo spot for locals and tourists, it captures the spirit of Seattle as part of the “Greetings Tour,” which brings postcard-style murals to cities across America, each tailored to reflect local culture and landmarks.

Finding this mural can be tricky since it’s located at Block 41, a private event venue, and not open to the public. To take photos, you’ll need to contact Block 41 and make a reservation in advance.

Kerry Park

Kerry Park, a hidden gem nestled in Queen Anne Hill, offers the most breathtaking view of Seattle. This small yet beloved park boasts panoramic vistas of the city skyline, Elliott Bay, and the majestic Mount Rainier. Witness stunning sunsets, capture iconic photos, and enjoy the park’s peaceful atmosphere. Kerry Park is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Seattle at this iconic viewpoint. 🥰

Oxbow Park

Oxbow Park, also known as Hat & Boots Park, is a quirky and unique public space located in the Georgetown neighborhood. The park’s main attraction is a giant cowboy hat and boots, which once served as a roadside attraction for a Western-themed gas station in the 1950s. The hat originally served as the gas station’s office, and the boots housed the restrooms.

After falling into disrepair, the oversized structures were restored and relocated to Oxbow Park in 2003, where they now serve as a piece of whimsical Americana. The hat is 44 feet wide, and the boots stand 22 feet tall, making them fun, eye-catching landmarks. The park also features picnic tables, a playground, and green space, making it a great spot for families, tourists, and anyone interested in quirky Seattle history.

The charm of Hat n’ Boots is in its retro, larger-than-life design, offering a nostalgic throwback to mid-20th-century roadside culture. It’s also a great spot for photos and a short, fun stop while exploring the Georgetown area.

Thomas Dambo’s Frankie Feetsplinter

Meet Frankie Feetsplinter in front of the National Nordic Museum. It’s Thomas Dambo’s sixth and final installation as part of “Northwest Trolls: The Way of the Bird King.” The other trolls are on Vashon Island, Bainbridge Island, in West Seattle, Issaquah, and Portland, OR which I haven’t seen yet. I’m a fan of Thomas Dambo’s works and I love seeing his incredible, huge wood sculptures around the world. 🪓

Also, check out the National Nordic Museum! Discover the rich heritage of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. Since 1980, the museum has evolved, reopening in 2018 in a stunning, eco-friendly building reflecting Nordic principles. Explore diverse exhibits on art, history, and daily life, plus permanent displays on immigration, culture, and Nordic traditions in the Pacific Northwest. Enjoy cultural events, workshops, and lectures celebrating music, dance, and cuisine, including Midsummer festivities and holiday markets. Unwind in the Nordic-inspired café, browse traditional crafts in the gift shop, and delve into extensive research collections. The Nordic Museum is a hub for learning, connection, and appreciation of Nordic culture’s lasting impact on the region. ❤

Waterfall Garden Park

Waterfall Garden Park, a hidden gem nestled within the historic Pioneer Square neighborhood, offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This tranquil park is renowned for its beautiful 22-foot waterfall, lush gardens, and serene atmosphere. 💦