Looking for the best things to do in Seattle in a day? You’ve come to the right place!
I’ve visited Seattle several times as the starting point for an Alaska cruise.
I’m happy to tell you that it’s easy to see many of the highlights of Seattle in one day. This list is also perfect if you have a cruise port day in Seattle and have just as few hours to explore the Emerald City!
From exploring Pike Place Market and the iconic Space Needle to visiting world-class museums such as the Seattle Art Museum and the Chihuly Garden, I’ve got all of the best Seattle attractions right here for you.
Lace up your shoes and let’s go!
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Short on time but still want to see all of Seattle’s highlights? This 3-hour Seattle city tour is your best bet! See Pioneer Square, the Space Needle, and Pike Place market!
Best things to do near Pike Place Market
Now, there are many great things to do in Seattle. If you only have a day, you’re going to want to focus on the attractions on your must-see list.
Fortunately, many of the top Seattle attractions are located in one of two areas.
First, we’ll talk about the best things to do around Pike Place Market.
1. Visit Pike Place Market
One of the things you absolutely must see in Seattle is Pike Place Market!
Pike Place Market is one of Seattle’s most iconic landmarks. Visiting the market should definitely be at the top of your ‘things to do in Seattle’ list.
Spanning 9 acres in downtown Seattle, it is one of the oldest public markets in the USA. Pike Place Market is home to over 200 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
It’s also one of the top tourist attractions in Seattle, with an estimated 10 million visitors each year. (Wow!)
The vendors at Pike Place Market are what make it so special! There are artisans selling handcrafted items such as jewelry, pottery, and one-of-a-kind works of art.
I loved the colorful arrays of delicate blown glass, but decided to take home a pair of earrings instead. (Earrings are a lot easier to pack, and a lot less likely to break in transit!)
You’ll find farmers offering locally grown fruits and vegetables and specialty food stores offering gourmet snacks and treats. Many vendors offer samples, so try a slice of a fresh peach or perhaps a chocolate-covered cherry or two.
There are plenty of other food options in and around the market, whether you’re looking for a pastry, a bowl of chowder, or a pizza.
I was absolutely entranced by the florists. There were so many market stalls displaying beautiful bouquets of flowers in a dizzying array of colors. Looking for a special arrangement? Just ask and they can create something just for you.
One of the most famous vendors is the Pike Place Fish Market. They not only sell freshly caught fish straight off the boat, but actually throw the fish!
Whether you’re looking for a delicious treat for a unique souvenir, Pike Place Market has something for everyone!
For a more in-depth visit to the market, why not take a food tour of Pike Place Market? Nibble your way through the market’s best eats with a local guide (you can even take a chef-guided tour!)
2. Get your caffeine fix
Seattle is renowned for its coffee culture.
Starbucks has become a household name since it started in the city over forty years ago. The iconic Seattle-based company now operates more than 30,000 stores around the world (wow) with over 400 stores in its hometown.
There are plenty of other local cafes that offer a delicious cup of joe as well! From traditional Italian espresso bars to cozy neighborhood hangout, the best coffee shops in Seattle will certainly provide your caffeine fix.
Any coffee fanatic will tell you it’s one of the best things in Seattle!
I have to admit, I’ve never developed a taste for coffee. I’m part of the minority here, as statistics show that three-quarters of adults in the US drink coffee! But at least that means I wasn’t tempted to stand in the *extremely long line* for the Starbucks across from Pike Place Market!
Get a crash course on all things coffee on this unique coffee culture tour of Seattle. You’ll definitely be kept caffeinated during your stroll through Seattle’s Capitol Hill area.
3. Check out the Gum Wall
The Seattle Gum Wall is not my favorite attraction — for me, there is a definite ‘ewww’ factor. But it is surprisingly popular! Visitors from around the globe stopping by to add their own contribution to this unique ‘street art’.
You’ll find the Gum Wall in an alleyway near Pike Place Market. It has been covered in thousands of pieces of gum since the early 1990s.
The colorful display is certainly a unique sight and an example of the creativity and quirkiness that makes Seattle so special.
4. See the Seattle Art Museum
The Seattle Art Museum offers a vast array of amazing artwork from all over the world. From ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces, the museum has something for every type of art enthusiast. The Native American galleries feature art from the Northwest Coast.
The main branch of the Seattle Art Museum is located just a block from the Pike Place Market. You can’t miss it — there’s a huge moving statue in front of the museum!
‘Hammering Man’ honors working class men and women of the world, and labors 20 hours a day. (He does get Labor Day off.)
Pro Tip: you can take a smartphone tour for free! Use your phone to scan QR codes on the art as you explore the museum.
The Seattle Art Museum also has an Asian Art Museum in Volunteer Park. That’s a few miles away, so you’ll need to grab a ride if you want to visit the Asian Art Museum.
The Seattle Art Museum has another artistic outpost — the waterfront Olympic Sculpture Garden (we’ll talk a little more about that later).
And if you prefer street art to museums, there are plenty of amazing places to view murals and street art in Seattle!
5. Take a ride on the Great Wheel
Experience a unique way to take in the sights of Seattle by taking a ride on the iconic Great Wheel. Located right on the waterfront, this 175 foot tall Ferris wheel stands out as an impressive landmark with its bright lights and stunning views.
Each air-conditioned gondola can accommodate up to eight passengers. This gives you plenty of room to enjoy your ride while soaking in stunning views of Elliott Bay, Mount Rainier, and downtown Seattle skyline.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a fun family outing, the Great Wheel is an amazing way to see Seattle!
6. Visit the Seattle Aquarium
The Seattle Aquarium is one of the best attractions in Seattle. Located on the waterfront, this world-class aquarium showcases an incredible array of marine life from the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
The Seattle Aquarium is one of Seattle’s most family-friendly activities!
From playful sea otters (my personal favorite) to translucent jellyfish, visitors can get up close with some of nature’s most fascinating creatures. Enjoy interactive exhibits, educational programs for all ages, and hands-on activities like tide pooling,
And be sure to check out the underwater viewing dome!
Plus, I thought their signage on the waterfront was super cute — look at those octopus tentacles!
Best things to do near the Space Needle:
If visiting the Space Needle is at the top of your list, then you’ll want to visit this group of attractions first. Start off with the Olympic Sculpture Park. It’s on the way if you’re walking from the Pike Pace Market zone to the Space Needle area.
(Note: it’s about a mile walk between these two areas. I like to walk along the waterfront on Alaskan Way.)
1. Wander through the Olympic Sculpture Park
The Seattle Olympic Sculpture Park is a stunning 9-acre outdoor museum located on the waterfront of Elliott Bay in downtown Seattle. The park features an impressive collection of sculptures and artwork from renowned artists.
Take a leisurely stroll down meandering pathways or enjoy a picnic lunch while admiring the works of art around you. There are also walking trails that wind through the garden for those who wish to explore further. (They’re popular for locals walking their dogs.)
The Olympic Sculpture Garden is especially lovely at sunset! This is a great vantage point with spectacular panoramic views of the harbor and Puget Sound.
Checking out this park is one of the best free things to do in Seattle!
Looking for some fun things to do in Seattle when it rains? Why not put your puzzle-solving skills to the test at Hourglass Escapes? It’s one of the best escape rooms in Seattle, and it’s close to the Space Needle and the Sculpture Garden!
2. Relax at the International Fountain
Located in the heart of the Seattle Center, the International Fountain is a beloved landmark with a great view of the Space Needle.
This iconic fountain features a shallow pool surrounded by circular walls and jets of water shooting up from every direction. It’s been delighting people of all ages since 1962, when it was built for the World’s Fair.
It serves as both a beautiful work of art as well as a popular spot for enjoying warm days with family and friends. With its colorful lights, soothing sounds, and mesmerizing water displays, it’s a great place to kick back and relax.
Grab a bench or enjoy a picnic on the grass surrounding the fountain and watch the kids dashing in and out of the jets of water.
3. See the Iconic Space Needle
The Seattle Space Needle is an iconic landmark and top attraction in the city of Seattle. Certainly, no visit to Seattle is complete without a visit to the Space Needle.
Standing at 605 feet tall, it’s one of the tallest buildings in the Pacific Northwest. Its unique architecture is immediately recognizable and has become a symbol of the Emerald City.
The Space Needle was built for the 1962 World’s Fair, and its innovative design came from the Fair’s theme ‘Age of Space’. The chief engineer added the touch of the flying saucer at the top of the Needle.
Visitors take a high-speed elevator to the top of the Needle. The open-air observation deck is 520′ above the ground. From here, enjoy the best views in Seattle — downtown, the Puget Sound, and Mount Rainier! (And if you are staying longer in Seattle, take a day trip to experience all the great things to do in Mount Rainier.)
If you’re not a fan of heights, check out the Loupe, the world’s only revolving glass floor. This indoor observation space is pretty cool, as it rotates every 30 min. There’s also a lounge where you can enjoy a cocktail while you enjoy the views.
Going to the top of the Space Needle is a must for your Seattle sightseeing –the views are phenomenal!
Get your combo ticket for the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden and Glass to experience two of Seattle’s top attractions!
4. Admire the Chihuly Garden and Glass
The Chihuly Garden and Glass is a stunning exhibition of the work of Dale Chihuly, one of America’s most celebrated glass artists. Located at the base of the world-famous Space Needle, this extraordinary garden celebrates Chihuly’s lifelong exploration of color and form with vibrant installations throughout its four galleries.
From breathtaking blown-glass sculptures to captivating outdoor gardens and special exhibitions, visitors experience world-class art in an awe-inspiring setting. Highlights include a 100-foot long sculpture suspended from above, beautiful pieces made from hand blown glass set against lush greenery, and mesmerizing light displays that will leave you breathless.
If you’re lucky, you might even get to see an artisan at work crafting an incredible work of glass art!
Get your combo ticket for the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden and Glass to experience two of Seattle’s top attractions!
5. Marvel at the Museum of Pop Culture
The Museum of Pop Culture is a vibrant celebration of music, film, and more. Located at the base of the Space Needle, this interactive museum has something for everyone to enjoy.
With its ever-evolving exhibitions and events that are tailored to all ages and interests, MoPOP offers an interactive experience unlike any other.
Music fans will love their collection featuring over 100 instruments from renowned musicians such as Kurt Cobain’s guitar or Jimi Hendrix’ handwritten lyrics. And don’t miss exhibitions including props and costumes from blockbuster movies such as The Wizard of Oz, The Lord of the Rings, and Game of Thrones.
Whether you’re looking for a fun day out with your family or want to immerse yourself in the history behind some of your favorite music icons, MoPOP provides a one-of-a-kind pop culture experience.
Even the building is unique, with the monorail passing right through its psychedelic multi-colored wavy architecture. Not to mention the giant sculpture of a typewriter eraser standing in front of the museum!
(Thanks to reader Diane L, a former Seattle resident, for correcting me when I thought it was a pizza cutter!)
6. Explore the Pacific Science Center
Seattle’s Pacific Science Center is a world-renowned institution, dedicated to inspiring and engaging people of all ages in the wonders of science. Located in the expansive Seattle Center complex, this interactive museum offers a variety of exhibits and activities that explore STEM topics from astronomy to zoology. (STEM = Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math)
Pacific Science Center provides an unforgettable experience that will spark curiosity and ignite creativity in your entire family. Check out the planetarium, see the laser dome show, and don’t miss the IMAX theater, the largest screen in Washington!
Seattle Travel Tips and FAQ
Where to stay in Seattle
If you’re heading out on a cruise, it’s a good idea to arrive at the port a day in advance, just to make sure you don’t (literally) miss the boat if any of your travel plans go awry! And since there is so much to do in Seattle, you won’t have any problems entertaining yourself for a day before your cruise.
Here are my top recommendations for Seattle hotels:
Top pick: For an excellent pre-cruise experience, stay at the Edgewater Hotel. This incredible hotel is built out over the water and you’ll be amazed by the stunning views from your room.
If you want a hotel near the Pike Place Market, book the Palihotel Seattle. You’ll love the retro charm of this boutique hotel, which is only a 2 minute walk from the market.
If you’d rather be close to the Space Needle, book the Hyatt Place Seattle/Downtown. The desk staff here were super helpful. When they found out I was leaving on a cruise, they helped me set up with a low-cost shuttle to the port. Plus, it’s only a 6-minute walk from the Space Needle.
Where do cruise ships dock in Seattle?
There are two cruise ship terminals in Seattle, the Bell Street Cruise Terminal at Pier 66, and the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91. Be sure to check is right for your Alaska cruise embarkation!
The Bell Street Cruise Terminal is used by Norwegian Cruise Lines and Oceania. This location is super convenient, as it is only about a half-mile from Pike Place Market and less than a mile from the Space Needle.
The Smith Cove Cruise Terminal is used by Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruises, Holland America, and Princess Cruises. This terminal is a bit further from Seattle’s top attractions — about 2.5 miles from the Space Needle, and 3 miles from Pike Place Market.
Final Thoughts..
Seattle is a vibrant city full of amazing experiences. From exploring iconic landmarks to visiting world-class museums, there are plenty of exciting activities that can be enjoyed with just one day in Seattle.
From Pike Place Market to Space Needle Park and beyond, Seattle has something special for everyone who visits it.
While you may visit Seattle as a starting point for your Alaska cruise, I’ll bet that you’ll want to come back and spend more time in the Emerald City!
You might also enjoy these posts about my favorite Alaska cruise ports:
- 9 Best Alaska Cruise Ports: Discover Nature’s Beauty
- 23 Fantastic Things to Do in Victoria, BC
- Best Things to Do in Ketchikan: Fun and Easy Walking Tour
Planning a trip to Seattle? Pin this for later so you don’t miss out on the top attractions in Seattle!
If you prefer to travel inside the continental US, you might enjoy visiting these great US cities:
Lisa Garrett
Lisa Garrett is the founder of Waves and Cobblestones. She has taken 18 cruises ranging from a multi-generational Caribbean cruise to solo Alaska cruises to fabulous Mediterranean cruises.
She lived in Ireland for 4 months and has taken over a half-dozen multi-city vacations in Europe (primarily relying on train and public transit). Lisa helps people plan amazing vacations to Europe and popular cruise destinations.
Learn more about Lisa!
