Planning on spending a day in Seattle? Or is Seattle on your list of places to visit, but you don’t have much time? Maybe you have a quick layover and want to spend some time there. Today I want to share with you, how you can spend six hours in Seattle and still have an amazing time with lots of memories to share.
This pandemic has done a number on my mental health. I went from traveling worldwide monthly to being grounded for almost an entire year. As someone who feels more at home in the friendly skies, than on the ground, I needed to get away, but as the world continues to shun Americans, I had to keep it national.
My daughter Krissy, left Colorado at the beginning of 2020 and headed to Portland, and while we chat on a daily basis, I figured it was time to pay her a visit. We originally had plans (Madison and I) to visit her this past summer, but those plans fell through, so I decided to visit on my own. For those who have never visited Portland, it’s an amazing city and one I would gladly call my home if given the choice, but today’s post is all about Seattle.
Krissy and I spent every day exploring Portland and beyond. Seattle is approximately 2 ½hrs away from Portland, so we decided to hire a sitter for Brooklyn (my grandpuppy) and make Seattle a day trip. We left around 9:30 am and got there roughly at noon. With the pandemic, there are limited hours, so we knew that we couldn’t do it all in one day, but we decided to see just how much we could get done in roughly six hours, and boy were we surprised.
I have plans on returning with Madison this summer, so we left most of the kid-oriented stuff (such as the zoo, aquarium, etc.,) and made this an adult-only trip, but what we did can also be done with kids. If you have plans on staying longer than a day, I recommend purchasing a Seattle CityPASS.
So what can you do in Settle in only six hours? While we did this a little differently, it was based on our experience that allows me to set this itinerary in a way that’s not only convenient for you, but you won’t be dashing from place to place haphazardly.
Pikes Place Farmers Market
I recommend starting your visit by visiting the Pikes Place Farmers Market, one of the oldest farmers markets in the United States, and the 33rd most visited tourist attraction in the world. It’s home to hundreds of farmers, small businesses, and craftspeople. You can find anything from souvenirs, fresh fish, handmade soaps, dried flowers, and even jewelry.
The First Starbucks
Located in the same location as the Pikes Place Farmers Market is the First Starbucks. If you’re a Starbucks lover, go in and grab a cup of your favorite Latte. There you can find unique items only sold at this store, so grab that coffee mug that says that you were in the first Starbucks retail store.
The Bubble Gum Wall
The Bubble Gum Wall is a local landmark and exactly that, a brick wall covered in used chewing gum located in an alleyway under Pike Place Farmers Market. You can walk with your own gum and stick it on the wall along with the millions of other used gum there.
The Great Wheel
Another of Seattle’s famous landmark is the Great Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel located at Pier 57. It opened to the public in 2012 and what makes it unique is that it’s actually built over water. There are 41 fully enclosed climate controlled gondolas each able to carry eight passengers at once. Each ride takes around 20 minutes.
Sculpture Park
Next, take a stroll across to the nearby Sculpture Park, an outdoor sculpture museum with some awe-inspiring pieces of sculpture works. Simply take a walk around the park, or relax on the many benches around the park and enjoy the view.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
The Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit showcase glass art by the famous Dale Chihuly. Located in the Seattle Center Park, arts and entertainment center, it comprises three main areas. The Garden, The Glasshouse, and the Interior Exhibits. You can expect to spend about 30-45 minutes here.
Space Needle
The Space Needle is Seattle’s most iconic landmark and next door to the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit. At 606ft you get 360° panoramic views of the city. Timed reservations are currently needed in order to visit. Originally constructed for the 1962 World Fair, the Space Needle was built to withstand wind velocity of 200 miles per hour and has also withstood numerous tremors. You can enjoy a meal a the SkyCity Restaurant but you’re also going to need a separate reservation.
End It With Dinner
There are many awesome restaurants to choose from and lots to eat in Seattle. We decided on Thai food and found a great restaurant, Mantra, conveniently located near the Space Needle. The food was delicious and the price was very reasonable too.
So the next time you think you don’t have much time, consider this itinerary and enjoy your day or 6hrs in Seattle.
