Darren YeohThe bustling city of Seattle in Washington perfectly captures the ambience of the United States’ West Coast — it is a city teeming with urban sophistication interlaced with stunning natural beauty, punctuated by the rolling evergreens surrounding the city and the majestic Puget Sound.
Image credit: welcomia via Canva Pro
From the iconic Space Needle piercing the clouds to the vibrant Pike Place Market brimming with fresh seafood and local crafts, Seattle offers an unforgettable experience for every kind of adventurer. Whether you crave a day exploring world-class museums, a hike through lush forests, or a kayak adventure amidst scenic islands, Seattle has something to ignite your wanderlust.
And, to get you started, here’s a 4D3N Seattle itinerary to help you plan your trip to the beloved Emerald City!
Also read: 10 Best Airbnbs in Seattle You’ll Love to Call Home
|
Ready to explore the beautiful West Coast of the United States? Then start planning your journey with EVA Air! From 25 Jun to 7 Sep 2024, EVA Air will be operating 10 weekly flights between Taipei and Seattle, with seamless connections from Singapore (twice daily flights from Changi to Taipei)! There are also daily flights departing Taipei to Los Angeles and San Francisco! What’s more, book your flights via the EVA Air website using selected credit/debit cards from participating banks and enjoy a 5% discount off your airfare! Simply select “Apply Bank Discount” when filling your itinerary. What are you waiting for? Your West Coast adventure awaits! |
Day 1: Pike Place Market → Seattle Aquarium → Pioneer Square
Image credit: KellyvanDellen via Canva Pro
When in Seattle, one of the best locations to start your visit is the historical Pike Place Market. Here at this vibrant market, you can feel the lively atmosphere and contagious warmth of the city come to life!
Whether it be the iconic market sign, the throng of artisanal stalls selling their wares, soulful street performances, or the popular fish-tossing tradition — fishmongers throwing fish across at each other, Pike Place Market is the ideal starting point of your 4D3N trip to Seattle.
Here, you can shop for artisanal wares, sample the freshest seafood, and even enjoy fantastic views of Elliott Bay at the open-air plaza. For coffee lovers, this is also where you’ll find the original Starbucks store, ie, the very first coffee shop of the world-famous chain, nestled along the cobblestone streets of the market.
Image credit: gridcaha via Canva Pro
After spending your morning at Pike Place Market, make your way to the Seattle Aquarium on the waterfront’s Pier 59 to learn about the marine life of the Pacific Northwest. Here, you’ll get a chance to see a wide variety of marine life, ranging from different types of fish and clams to sea otters, seals, and more! You can also watch a live fish feeding session, and touch sea anemone.
One particular highlight that never fails to spark wonder is seeing majestic sharks swim overhead as you pass through the underwater dome. It’s one of those awe-inspiring moments that encourages you to put away the phone and simply enjoy the wonders around you!
Spending the evening soaking up the historical vibes of Pioneer Square
Image credit: Gagliardi Photography via Canva Pro
When it comes to nightlife in Seattle, one of the best places to visit is Pioneer Square. The city’s original downtown area is located in the historic heart of Seattle, steeped in history and exuding an enticing charm that sweeps any visitor off their feet.
Upon entering the area, you’ll notice a variety of historic buildings, many of which feature a distinct Romanesque Revival style, very much like those that we see in classic Hollywood films. Some of the notable buildings include the Pioneer Building and the Smith Tower — the city’s very first skyscraper, built back in 1914!
Image credit: 400tmax via Canva Pro
If you want to dive deeper (pun not intended) into the history of Seattle, head to the underground tunnels and sign up for tours that take you beneath the streets to see the remains of the city’s first buildings. You can also check out the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park to learn about Seattle’s gold rush history.
Once you’ve had enough of soaking in the history of Pioneer Square, it’s time to explore some of the more modern establishments in the area. In contrast to the area’s historical significance, Pioneer Square sees an ever-growing slate of hip new eateries, bars, and boutiques. Take your time to explore these establishments and enjoy dinner here after a day of exploration.
Day 2: Bainbridge Island → Kerry Park → Seattle Art Museum → International District
Image credit: cascadecreatives via Canva Pro
On the second day of your holiday in Seattle, start your morning with a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island from the Seattle Ferry Terminal. If you’re planning to travel to Seattle, this charming little island located across Elliott Bay is a must-visit if you’re looking to experience the more rustic side of Seattle.
After your 45-minute ferry ride, you’ll arrive at the Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal. From there, you’re free to explore the island to your heart’s content. Start with the town of Winslow, a walkable waterfront town with a variety of shops and restaurants. Next, visit the Bloedel Reserve, a 150-acre estate, for stunning views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, and wander through the beautiful gardens.
Image credit: DreamArtist via Canva Pro
After hopping on a ferry ride back from your island excursion, head to Kerry Park for breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. In fact, on a clear day, you can even see the majestic Elliott Bay and Mount Rainier in the distance! It’s no wonder Kerry Park is known as one of the most iconic sightseeing spots in Seattle!
Next, let’s head to the Seattle Art Museum, the city’s largest museum dating back to the 1930s, to explore their vast collection of art (around 120,000 pieces, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts) from around the world. You could also take the time to check out Olympic Sculpture Park, an outdoor extension of the museum that’s open to the public for free about a mile away at the waterfront.
Treat yourself to an evening of mouthwatering Asian cuisine
Image credit: paulbrady via Canva Pro
As evening comes around, we recommend heading to one of the most bustling areas in Seattle, the Seattle Chinatown-International District. As the name suggests, this historic neighbourhood is the vibrant hub for Seattle’s Asian communities, punctuated by colourful decor, unique cultural experiences, and more mouthwatering eateries than you could imagine!
Whether it be dim sum, sushi, pho, or something else that tickles your fancy, the moment you step through the ornate Chinatown Gate, you’ll surely find something to fill your belly. And once you’re done with your meal, you can spend the rest of your evening at the Wing Luke Museum, where you can learn more about the history of the Asian communities in Seattle, or play some pinball at the Seattle Pinball Museum.
You can also shop for delicious snacks and souvenirs at the Asian supermarkets.
Day 3: Seattle Center → Lake Union
Image credit: cascadecreatives via Canva Pro
Day 3 of your trip to Seattle should start at the most recognisable area of the city, the Seattle Center. Here at this 74-acre campus, built to host the 1962 World’s Fair, you’ll find many of the most iconic buildings and landmarks in the city, including the famous Space Needle, a 184m tall tower famous for its futuristic design. It comes with an observation deck providing panoramic views of the city and the Cascade Mountains.
Image credit: DreamArtist via Canva Pro
Nearby, you’ll also find the quirky Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop), filled with colourful exhibits celebrating contemporary pop culture — think video games, music, films, and more. You can also head to Chihuly Garden and Glass, a unique museum dedicated to the work of world-renowned glassblower Dale Chihuly. It features a comprehensive collection of his work, and plenty of galleries showcasing his artful masterpieces, including The Glasshouse, a vibrant 100-foot-long sculpture in hues of red, orange, and yellow suspended from the ceiling.
Image credit: tifonimages via Canva Pro
After spending half a day at Seattle Center, head to Lake Union, specifically the southern bank, where you can enjoy a variety of fun activities, such as kayaking and hopping on a seaplane and enjoying a bird’s eye view of the city. You can also visit the floating home from Sleepless in Seattle.
Once you’re done exploring the area, hit up one of the many bustling restaurants and bars in the area for your final night out in the city!
Day 4: Seattle Great Wheel
Image credit: fotoguy22 via Canva Pro
Before bidding farewell to Seattle and embarking on the next leg of your trip, be it for your flight home or a road trip to San Francisco and Los Angeles along the West Coast, let’s head to the Seattle Great Wheel.
Built in 2012, the Seattle Great Wheel is one of the most Instaworthy locations in Seattle and one of the most iconic new additions to the city skyline. Perch on the end of Pier 57, it offers stunning views of the surrounding area from its air-conditioned gondolas. Not a bad way to get one final look at the bustling city of Seattle before taking your leave!
Also read: 8 Instagram-worthy Spots in Seattle That Locals Want to Keep For Themselves
Other destinations to visit on the West Coast
Speaking of embarking on a trip to visit other locations along the West Coast, did you know that apart from Seattle, there are many west coast cities that are equally as vibrant and offer just as much to experience?
Take, for example, Portland, Oregon, known as The City of Roses, famous for being a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, craft beer lovers, and eco-conscious travelers. The city features an extensive network of cycling paths that make it an awesome city to explore by bike. But perhaps two of the more famous West Coast cities are San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Image credit: bluejayphoto via Canva Pro
The former is a city brimming with iconic landmarks, cultural attractions, and a dynamic atmosphere. In San Francisco, you can take a cable car ride up the steep hills, visit the Golden Gate Bridge, explore the vibrant Chinatown district, or stroll through the picturesque Golden Gate Park. San Francisco is a haven for foodies, with a diverse culinary scene offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual street vendors. Don’t forget to hop aboard the iconic cable cars too!
Image credit: chonesstock via Canva Pro
Meanwhile, Los Angeles is synonymous with Hollywood glamour, iconic beaches, and a vibrant entertainment scene. Explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame, catch a movie premiere, or visit a theme park like Disneyland or Universal Studios. Los Angeles also boasts a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character, from the trendy shops of Melrose to the beaches of Santa Monica and Venice Beach.
|
Ready to explore the beautiful West Coast of the United States? Then start planning your journey with EVA Air! From 25 Jun to 7 Sep 2024, EVA Air will be operating 10 weekly flights between Taipei and Seattle, with seamless connections from Singapore (twice daily flights from Changi to Taipei)! There are also daily flights departing Taipei to Los Angeles and San Francisco! What’s more, book your flights via the EVA Air website using selected credit/debit cards from participating banks and enjoy a 5% discount off your airfare! Simply select “Apply Bank Discount” when filling your itinerary. What are you waiting for? Your West Coast adventure awaits! |
Brought to you by EVA Air
