Michelle Cacija

As always, I want to remind you, that this itinerary isn’t perfect because everyone travels differently, and all trips involve changes of plans. I want to let you know that everything on this website has been experienced, photographed, and written by me. Since I finance all of my travel expenses on my own, the stories and opinions given are truly my own. If you’re interested in seeing more travel pictures or videos, feel free to check out my Instagram @michellecacija or my Tik Tok @michellecacija.

Index

1. The Basics about Seattle
2. Things you need to be aware of
3. Medicial insurance
4. Itinierary
5. Summary of activities
6. Summary of where to eat
7. Other North American Blogs

The Basics about Seattle

When to visit

The best time to visit Seattle is probably during late spring, from early May to early June, or early autumn, from late August to late September. During these months, temperatures are milder, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and there are fewer visitors at the most popular destinations. We went towards the end of September, and the temperatures were really pleasant, making it a great time to explore the city and surroundings. If you plan on going to the mountains be aware, that it’s colder!

Time period

Regarding the time period, I think three days is the perfect amount of time to explore Seattle as you’ll have the opportunity to discover the downtown and explore some of the nearby attractions. However, in the end, it really depends on what you want to see and do in Seattle.

Getting There

When it comes to getting there, you can reach the city by car, bus, train or plane depending on where you’re coming from. Since we had been in San Francisco before, we came by plane.

Where to stay

Some popular areas to stay in Seattle are Downtown Seattle, Chinatown, Capitol Hill, or Ballard. Each of these areas offers different vibes and attractions, so you can choose based on what you’re looking for during your stay! If you’re looking for a central location Downtown Seattle or Chinatown are a popular choice. The areas of Capitol Hill and Ballard are more for the local vibe.

Renting a car

I’ve rented at least six cars and always booked them through check24 ^{(unpaid ad),} which I can highly recommend. The website offers good deals, the insurance is quite cheap and provides good coverage, and the customer service is very efficient and accommodating. However, Check24 currently only offers its website in German. So it’s manditory to speak the language.

National Park Pass

If you are planning a road trip in the United States or want to visit some attractions located outside of Seattle, make sure you have an national parks pass ^{(unpaid ad).} This pass provides access to all national parks and costs around $80. This pass is definitely worth it since it would cost you more if you buy the ticket entrances for every national park or forest. Furthermore, it lasts for 12 months after purchase. You can buy it online or from visitor center shops in the city where you start your journey from.

Getting around

When it comes to getting around, Seattle is a very walkable city, you can easily walk to all the major sights. To see more in a shorter time, you could always use the public transport or hire a bike.

What to pack

When packing for Seattle in spring and fall, it’s good to be prepared for the changeable weather. Bring layers like sweaters, jackets, and waterproof clothing. Don’t forget comfortable shoes for walking around the city, especially if you plan to explore different areas. In summer, I would suggest bringing some light and airy summer clothing.

Additionaly, consider bringing your own little medication bag, including Band-Aids, pain relief tablets, sleeping tablets or spray, bug spray, aftersun, etc. You never know what you might need it for, and you might feel more comfortable using medication from home rather than in a country where you don’t know the ingredients and languages. If you’re coming from outside the Untied States, don’t forget to bring a Type A or B power adapter.

Cost of Travel

The amount you’re going to spend during your stay in Seattle really depends on several factors, including where you want to go, your travel style, and what you will be doing. America is quite pricey in contrast to Europe, so a trip can get quite expensive. However, if you just plan it roughly and research ahead, you can safe a lot of money.

Things you need to be aware of

Water in Seattle. You can safely drink tap water as it’s clean.

Toilet situation. Most public restrooms in Amerika are free of charge.

In America, tipping is a common practice in many service industries. It’s customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for services like taxis and haircuts.

The currency used is the United States Dollar (USD). When it comes to payment methods, both cash and cards are widely accepted in the U.S. You can use credit or debit cards for most transactions, but it’s always handy to have some cash on you for situations like tipping or small purchases.

Medicial insurance

I highly recommend getting travel medical insurance while you’re traveling. Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. SafetyWing offers two flexible plans tailored to your travel needs — whether you’re a short-term adventurer or a long-term expat, you’ll have reliable coverage anywhere in the world.

SafetyWing is especially great for remote workers and digital nomads, offering continuous global coverage even if you’re hopping between countries. Of course, it’s also a solid option for frequent travelers or those constantly on the go. But if you’re only traveling occasionally or just for a short holiday now and then, there might be better-suited alternatives.

Itinierary

Day 1

After landing in the afternoon and checking into our hostel, we explored our area, Chinatown, and went out for an early dinner at Dough Zone Dumpling House ^{(unpaid ad)}, which was absolutely delicious. Seattle’s Chinatown is a vibrant area with many restaurants, cafes, and shops. Some of the street poles are decorated with dragon statues in various colors. It’s a fantastic place to explore and experience a blend of Asian cultures right in the heart of Seattle!

After strolling through Chinatown, we headed to downtown Seattle. During our visit, we explored various places, including the Smith Tower, Seattle Central Library, the piers, and the historic train station.

The Smith Tower, a skyscraper in the Pioneer Square neighborhood, was once the tallest building on the West Coast. Known for its architecture and observation deck providing stunning city views, it’s a significant landmark in Seattle’s skyline. A visit is highly recommended, especially at sunset when the building starts shining.

Seattle’s piers are nice spots along the waterfront, offering beautiful views and various activities. You can leisurely stroll along the waterfront, exploring shops and restaurant, watch ferries come and go, and even hop on a boat to see the city from the water. Pier 62 is a lovely park area, while Pier 56 and Pier 55 are vibrant spots with shops and cafes. Pier 57 features the Great Wheel, a popular attraction offering fantastic views of the city and Elliott Bay from its gondolas.

The King Street Station, a beautiful historic train station in the downtown area, is definitely worth a visit if you appreciate architecture and history.

Day 2

I began my morning by visiting the famous Gum Wall in Post Alley near Pike Place Market. The wall is adorned with chewed gum of different colors and shapes, forming a creative and unconventional sight. Many other visitors also add their gum to the wall, making it a continuously transforming art piece, which we also did. The Gum Wall is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

Afterwards, I visited the famous Space Needle and its Chihuly Garden and Glass, starting with the Space Needle. The Space Needle is an iconic observation tower in Seattle that offers breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding area. The tower has an elevator that takes visitors to the observation deck in just 41 seconds. The observation deck is located 160 meters (520 feet) above ground and features a rotating glass floor, providing a unique view of the city below. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online in advance. Since the website didn’t work when I wanted to buy the ticket, I purchased it in front of the tower. Additionally, there is a restaurant with Pacific Northwest cuisine and a cafe for more casual dining. It’s a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Seattle and isn’t afraid of heights!

My ticket to the Space Needle also included a visit to the Chihuly Garden and Glass, an exhibition showcasing the incredible glass artwork of Dale Chihuly. It features a variety of Chihuly’s glass sculptures displayed in indoor galleries and outdoor gardens. The exhibition is truly mesmerizing and definitely worth visiting. If you’re keen on seeing the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibition, consider booking a combination ticket to visit both attractions and save money!

Afterward, I met my friend at Pier 57, which we explored for a while. We watched ferries come and go while enjoying the sea breeze.

Later, we headed to Pike Place Market, a public market on the Elliott Bay waterfront. It’s one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the United States, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, foods, vintage stores, handmade crafts, and souvenir shops. The market is also known as the Public Market Center. You can explore the bustling market, visit the original Starbucks store, grab a bite at the charming restaurants and cafes, and soak in the lively atmosphere. This spot is perfect for experiencing the local culture and flavors of Seattle and is definitely worth a visit when you’re in the city!

Our final stop for today was Gas Works Park, a popular park situated on the grounds of a former gasification plant. It provides beautiful views of the city skyline and is a perfect spot for picnics, watching people kayak, fly kites, and enjoy boating activities. When we arrived, it was very peaceful, which added to the charm. We spent a few hours here, relishing the water activities and the city skyline. Nearby, there is a small shopping center where you can take a leisurely stroll or grab some snacks.

Day 3

On our final day, we picked up a rental car from Seattle-Tacoma Airport early in the morning and drove to Mount Rainier National Park, which is about a 1 hour and 40-minute car ride away. The park is home to the majestic Mount Rainier, an active volcano surrounded by old-growth forests, wildflowers, five major rivers, and glaciers. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, including bears, deer, and mountain goats, and winter sports. Mount Rainier is divided into several areas, each offering unique landscapes. The two most famous ones are Paradise, known for its wildflower meadows and stunning views of the volcano, and Sunrise, the highest point in the park accessible by car, offering breathtaking sceneries of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also explore the Ohanapecosh area with its lush forests and beautiful river, the Longmire area for the park’s museum, historic buildings, and nature trails, and the Carbon and Mowich area known for its lush rainforest environment and the Carbon River. During our visit, we decided to explore the Sunrise and Paradise areas.

The National Park is worth a visit in both summer and winter, but make sure to dress appropriately. Even in late September, it was quite chilly, so we wore long sports leggings and a thick hoodie. If you’re lucky you might encounter black bears, deer, or mountain goats, but it’s important to respect the wildlife and observe them from a safe distance to ensure their safety. So, keep your distance. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the opportunity to witness a bear, but we did see a few mountain goats from afar.

Before and during our visit to the National Park, nature was battling bushfires, so some roads were closed. Make sure to check for road closures before heading to the National Park, as it has multiple entrances. Also, ensure to check the weather as it can change rapidly. When we drove to the National Park, the weather was beautiful, but on our way back, we encountered dense fog and rain. Drive cautiously and be mindful of the wildlife and winding roads.

Summary of activities

• Chinatown
• Space Needle
• Chihuly Garden and Glass
• Pike Palace Market (Public Market Center)
• The Gum Wall
• Gas Works Park
• Mount Rainier National Park
• The Seattle Great Wheel
• Smith Tower
• Museum of Pop Culture
• Kerry Park
• Museum of Flight
• Seattle Central Library
• Seattle Aquarium

Summary of where to eat

• Public Market Center – farmers market ^{(unpaid ad)}
• Dough Zone Dumpling House – japanese cuisine ^{(unpaid ad)}

Other North American Blogs

3 responses to “Discover Seattle: 3-Day Adventure in the Emerald City”

1. 

   Anonymous

   September 13, 2024

   I’ve been following your blog for a few months now and you always have such amazing photos!! So much colour and the best angles.

   LikeLiked by 1 person

   Reply
   1. 

      Michelle Cacija

      September 14, 2024

      Thank you so much, I really appreciate it and it makes me really happy 😇

      LikeLike

      Reply
2. 

   Anonymous

   September 19, 2024

   Never thought of Seattle, but it seems to be very interesting. Love you. Dad

   LikeLiked by 1 person

   Reply