Perfect One Day in Seattle (8 Things You Can’t Miss+Useful Tips)

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Only got one day in Seattle? Don’t worry—you can still get a real feel for the city. Between the coffee, the seafood, and the views, there’s a lot to soak up in just 24 hours. I recently spent a whole day exploring downtown and the waterfront, and this itinerary hits all the good stuff without feeling like a sprint.

You’ll sip great coffee, wander through iconic spots, and probably end up carrying a few unexpected goodies from Pike Place (cheese and cherries in my case). Whether it’s your first time here or you’re squeezing in a visit during a layover, this guide will help you make the most of it.

Let’s kick things off at my favorite starting point: Pike Place Market.

You don’t need a car for this itinerary—in fact, it’s easier without one. Seattle’s downtown is very walkable, and everything on this itinerary is close enough to explore on foot.

Here’s how to get around:

• Walking: Most of this one-day plan sticks to downtown, so wear comfy shoes and you’ll be good to go on foot. For example, walking from Pike Place Market to the Space Needle and back is totally feasible—it’s about a 15-20 minute walk one way, so you can enjoy a bit of the city’s vibe along the way.

• Public Transport: If you’d rather skip the walk, Seattle’s buses and the Monorail come in handy. The Seattle Center Monorail departs from Westlake Center and will get you to the Space Needle in just a couple of minutes. It’s fast, fun, and offers a different view of the city as you zoom toward the Seattle Center.

• Car: If you do have a car, it’s better to park once for the day, as parking near Pike Place is tricky and expensive. You can leave it in the Pike Place Market Parking Garage on Western Ave, and take advantage of walking or public transport for the rest of your day.

• Rideshare/Taxis: If you’re not in the mood to walk or take public transport, Uber, Lyft, or a traditional taxi are always options. They’ll get you quickly between the major spots, like from Pike Place to the Space Needle, in just a few minutes.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, then I would say the best it would be to stay near Pike Place Market. I’ve got a few favorites here:

Hotel Theodore is one I absolutely recommend for its boutique charm. Just half a mile from the market, it’s got cozy vibes, a lovely lobby coffee shop, and even a complimentary happy hour. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel right at home while giving you that stylish flair.

If you’re after something trendy, the Kimpton Palladian Hotel is just a five-minute walk from Pike Place Market. With a chic on-site restaurant and evening wine hour, it’s perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Plus, some rooms have claw-footed bathtubs—ideal for relaxing!

For a spot practically inside the market, Thompson Seattle is the place to be. The location is unbeatable, and with a rooftop bar offering incredible views, you’ll want to spend hours just soaking in the scenery. Whether you’re there for the views or the close proximity to the action, Thompson Seattle is a gem.

There’s no better way to start your morning in Seattle than at Pike Place Market. It’s iconic, full of early buzz, and gives you a literal taste of the city right away.

Pike Place Market / One Day in Seattle 

Pike Place Market / One Day in Seattle 

First things first: coffee and a pastry. You’ll find plenty of options inside the market, but my two go-to spots are Storyville Coffee and Piroshky Piroshky.

• Storyville Coffee
  Tucked away on the top floor of the Corner Market building, Storyville feels like a hidden gem—even though it’s right above all the action. The space is warm and minimalist, with big windows that look out over the rooftops and Elliott Bay. It’s the kind of spot where you can take a deep breath, sip something amazing, and ease into the day.

I always go for their oat milk latte—it’s smooth, rich, and never bitter. Their pastries are baked fresh daily, and if you’re in the mood for something sweet, the Triple Chocolate Cake is a must. (Yes, it’s as intense as it sounds.) They roast their own beans and really care about the craft, which you can taste in every sip.

Storyville Coffee / One Day in Seattle

• Piroshky Piroshky
  Right outside the main entrance, this little bakery is hard to miss—not just because of the line, but because the smell will stop you in your tracks. Piroshky Piroshky has been serving up handheld pastries since 1992, blending Russian-style dough with all kinds of Pacific Northwest flavors.

I’ve had a lot of favorites over the years, but the Smoked Salmon Pâté is a standout—it’s basically Seattle in pastry form. The Beef and Cheese is another solid choice, especially if you’re after something filling. For a sweet option, go for the Cinnamon Cardamom Braid or the Apple Cinnamon Roll. Honestly, you can’t go wrong here.

The line moves quicker than it looks, so don’t let it scare you off. Grab your piroshky and stroll the market while you eat—it’s the perfect way to blend in with the locals and soak up that morning energy.

Piroshky Piroshky / One Day in Seattle 

Piroshky Piroshky / One Day in Seattle 

Once you’ve warmed up with a latte from Storyville and grabbed something flaky and delicious from Piroshky Piroshky, it’s time to dive into the real magic of Pike Place Market.

This place is more than a tourist stop—it’s a living, breathing part of Seattle, and there’s a reason locals still shop, eat, and hang out here.

• Pike Place Fish Market

Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s totally worth it!

Head over to Pike Place Fish Market—just look for the crowd or listen for the shouts.

The fishmongers here aren’t just selling seafood, they’re flinging it through the air like pros. This quirky tradition started as a way to move fish more efficiently but turned into a high-energy performance.

If you linger near the front, don’t be surprised if a fish flies your way (or if someone pretends to toss one at you—classic move).

Pike Place Fish Market / One Day in Seattle

Pike Place Fish Market / One Day in Seattle

Pike Place Fish Market / One Day in Seattle

• My Favorite: The Flower Stalls 

No matter how many times I visit, I always stop by the flower stalls.

These bouquets are handmade by local Hmong farmers who’ve been part of the market community for decades.

Depending on the season, you’ll see everything from tulips and peonies to massive sunflowers. They’re fresh, vibrant, and surprisingly affordable—I’m talking $10 to $15 for a lush, farmers-market-style bouquet. Even if you’re not buying, the colors and scents are worth the detour.

Flower Stalls / One Day in Seattle 

Flower Stalls / One Day in Seattle

Flower Stalls / One Day in Seattle

• Don’t Leave Without Grabbing a Few Treats 

If you’re anything like me, edible souvenirs are the best kind. Here are a few stalls I always recommend:

Chukar Cherries – These little guys are grown in Washington and dipped in chocolate. Some are sweet, some are tart, all are addictive. I buy a few packs and somehow they never make it home.

MarketSpice – Even if you’re not a tea person, their signature cinnamon-orange tea smells like comfort in a cup. Plus, they’ve got a wall of spices that’s like walking into your dream pantry.

MarketSpice / One Day in Seattle 

Pappardelle’s Pasta – Handmade, colorful pasta in all sorts of fun flavors. It’s great to cook with later or to gift to your foodie friends (if you’re feeling generous).

Beecher’s Handmade Cheese – Right near the market entrance, you can actually watch them make cheese through the glass windows. Their flagship cheddar is super sharp and creamy, and they’ve got hot mac and cheese to-go that’s dangerously good.

Beecher’s Handmade Cheese / One Day in Seattle

Beecher’s Handmade Cheese / One Day in Seattle

• Gum Wall

Yes, it’s gross. Yes, it’s weird. And yes, you have to see it.

Down Post Alley, right under the market, the Gum Wall is exactly what it sounds like: a wall of chewed gum in every shape and color. It started in the ’90s and somehow became an iconic Seattle spot. Snap a pic, add your own piece if you dare, and move on quickly.

Gum Wall / One Day in Seattle 

• Original Starbucks

Right across from the market, you’ll find the very first Starbucks, opened in 1971. There’s usually a line, and the drinks are the same as any other location, but it’s still fun to say you’ve been. The interior keeps the old-school charm, and it’s more about the experience than the caffeine at this point.

Original Starbucks / One Day in Seattle

• Chihuly Garden and Glass

If you’re into art, or even if you’re not, Chihuly Garden and Glass is one of those places that just blows you away. Dale Chihuly, a Washington native, is one of the most famous glass artists in the world, and this museum shows off his work in a way that’s truly stunning.

You walk in and are immediately greeted by the Glasshouse, a huge 40-foot-tall glass structure with a 100-foot-long sculpture hanging above you. The space feels magical, almost like you’ve stepped into another world. It’s inspired by the beauty of places like the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, and let me tell you, it feels like you’re standing inside a piece of art.

Then, there’s the Exhibition Hall. This part of the museum has eight galleries filled with Chihuly’s incredible works, from the colorful Glass Forest to the underwater-inspired Sealife Room. You’ll find yourself staring at pieces that seem to shift and change, almost like they’re alive.

Chihuly Garden and Glass / One Day in Seattle

Chihuly Garden and Glass / One Day in Seattle

And the Garden? It’s a peaceful, outdoor space with Chihuly’s glass sculptures nestled in the greenery. The way the light hits them at different times of the day makes the whole place feel like a different experience every time you visit. It’s artsy, tranquil, and honestly, just really cool.

Chihuly Garden and Glass / One Day in Seattle

• Space Needle

The Space Needle is pretty much Seattle’s iconic landmark and is hard to miss. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, it was once the tallest structure on the West Coast. You’ll catch a glimpse of it from just about anywhere in the city, and it’s one of those places where the view alone is worth the trip.

Space Needle / One Day in Seattle 

Space Needle / One Day in Seattle 

Once you hop in the elevator (and feel that rush as it shoots you up!), you’ll find yourself 520 feet above Seattle with 360-degree views of the city, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and even the Olympic Mountains on clear days. It’s a sight you won’t forget.

And if you’re not already impressed, the rotating glass floor will make you feel like you’re standing on air. It’s dizzying in the best way, and it’s not something you see at just any observation deck.

They’ve done a bunch of renovations in recent years, so the whole experience feels fresh and modern, and it’s even better than it was before. Definitely worth checking out if you’re visiting Seattle.

View from the Space Needle / One Day in Seattle 

After a full day of exploring, it’s definitely worth looping back to Pike Place Market for dinner—especially since you’re already in the area and don’t want to wander too far. Trust me, these spots are more than worth it:

• The Pink Door
  If you’re in the mood for something cozy and quirky, The Pink Door is the place. Hidden behind an unassuming pink door (hence the name), it’s got incredible Italian food and a view of the water that makes the whole experience feel special.

I love their Linguine alle Vongole (clams and pasta) and the rich Pappardelle al Ragu Bolognese—both are perfect for settling in after a busy day. The vibe is super intimate, which makes it feel like a little secret spot.

• Matt’s in the Market
  If you’re craving fresh, seasonal dishes with a local twist, Matt’s in the Market should be at the top of your list. They’re all about using the best ingredients Seattle has to offer.

A personal favorite of mine is the Northwest Seafood Pasta—it’s packed with flavor, and you really taste the freshness of the fish. Plus, the views of the market below are unbeatable, so you get the full Pike Place experience.

• Elliott’s Oyster House
  For those who love seafood, Elliott’s Oyster House is a must-visit. Situated right on the waterfront, you can dig into fresh oysters, crab, and all kinds of seafood goodness while enjoying the view.

If you love smoked salmon, the Applewood Smoked Salmon Scramble is a go-to, and the King Crab Quiche is perfect if you’re looking for something hearty. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the views just make everything taste better.

If you’ve got a little more energy left in you:

• Olympic Sculpture Park
  Just a short walk from Pike Place Market, Olympic Sculpture Park is a hidden gem that’s totally worth checking out. It’s free to visit, and the best part is that it’s open every day of the year, no matter the weather.

You can wander through 9 acres of impressive sculptures, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.

I love coming here in the late afternoon—it’s especially gorgeous at sunset when the colors of the sky reflect on the water. It’s a peaceful way to wrap up a day of exploring.

• Seattle Great Wheel
  If you’re in the mood for a little fun and want one last look at the water, hop on the Seattle Great Wheel. Located on Pier 57, this giant Ferris wheel stands 175 feet tall and offers incredible views of the city, Elliott Bay, and even the mountains if it’s clear out.

At night, the wheel lights up with over 500,000 LED lights, creating a beautiful light show that you can spot from all over the waterfront. It’s a pretty epic way to end your day in Seattle.

Seattle Great Wheel / One Day in Seattle 

Seattle Great Wheel / One Day in Seattle 

Seattle Great Wheel / One Day in Seattle