Dear adventurer, In this guide on what to do in Seattle in 2 days, we’ve gathered the city’s top tourist, historical, and architectural attractions to help you plan a short yet unforgettable itinerary. Enjoy fascinating immersive cultural experiences, underground tours, and magical moments at the most impressive glass museum on the West Coast.
If you’re having trouble deciding which places to visit, we’re here to help. Pack your bags, we’ll take care of the itinerary! If you want to experience what the Emerald City has to offer, 48 hours is more than enough to guarantee an adventure full of excitement, history, and discovery.
Day 1: History, culture, and stunning views
Start your morning strolling through the charming streets of Seattle’s Pike Place Market. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at one of the cafes or restaurants overlooking the water, and explore the variety of markets at your fingertips. In the afternoon, wander through the underground passageways of Pioneer Square and head up to the top of the Smith Tower. As night falls, take in the city’s highest view from the Columbia Center’s observation deck. Grab your camera and let the city’s nighttime charm sweep you away!
Pike Place Market
Considered the heart of Seattle, Pike Place Market is the perfect starting point for this 2-day itinerary. Spanning over five acres, the market offers a deep dive into the city’s multicultural atmosphere. Enjoy a vibrant experience full of color and flavor! You’ll find high-quality food, cuisine from around the world, and a crafts market that beautifully captures the local spirit and identity.
Come closer! Chat with farmers and fishermen, discover local clothing brands, and explore a wide variety of workshops and hands-on experiences that will enrich your time in Seattle. Travel is made up of stories told through memories, and visiting Seattle’s most charming market is one you definitely don’t want to miss.
It’s worth noting that entry is free. Pike Place Market is open seven days a week and only closes on Thanksgiving Day. Regular hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though many restaurants, bars, and cafes stay open into the evening.
Location 85 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101.
Pioneer Square
Take a step back in time! If you’re a history enthusiast, your next stop is Pioneer Square. Seattle’s roots date back over 100 years, and this neighborhood is where it all began.
Our itinerary takes you to one of the city’s most fascinating historic districts. Just a few blocks from downtown, these streets welcome you with a lineup of experiences steeped in history. Discover shops, parks, restaurants, monuments, and more, all part of a charm that’s simply too good to miss.
Immerse yourself in an underground tour that brings to life the hidden stories beneath the city’s foundations. Explore local art galleries, dine at nearby restaurants, or head to the top of the Smith Tower for a breathtaking view. Relive over 150 years of history in just two days!
Underground tour of Pioneer Square
If you’re wondering about what to see in two days, beneath the streets of Seattle’s oldest neighborhood lies a network of tunnels and underground passageways. On a guided walking tour, you’ll revisit the stories of the city’s early settlers and immerse yourself in the tale of a resilient community.
The tour reveals untouched areas once inhabited by Seattle’s earliest residents. It offers a rich collection of stories that help you imagine the past and better understand the city’s present.
A few things to keep in mind: the tour is done in groups of up to 20 people per time slot. Tickets start at $30 USD, and the tour lasts approximately one hour.
Smith Tower
Take in one of the oldest architectural icons on the West Coast: the towering Smith Tower. Standing over 30 stories tall in the heart of Pioneer Square, it’s known for its elegant white façade and distinctive design. Every day, hundreds of visitors pass through its doors to admire its rich history and breathtaking views.
From the 35th-floor observation deck, you’ll enjoy an unbeatable view of Seattle. From up there, you can easily spot landmarks like the Space Needle, Elliott Bay, the Great Wheel, and downtown.
Take a moment to sit in the legendary Wishing Chair, learn the story behind the Chinese Room, and dive into the rich history of Smith Tower , which held the title of tallest building on the West Coast back in 1914.
Tickets start a $10 USD.
Location: 506 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98104-2336.
Columbia Center
Are you a fan of architecture? Seattle is home to some of the most iconic buildings in the United States. As part of this two-day itinerary, we’ll take you to one of the West Coast’s most emblematic skyscrapers. Just look up and marvel at its sheer size!
Standing over 250 meters tall, the Columbia Center rises proudly in the heart of downtown. Known for its striking design and dark-toned façade, the building adds a touch of modern elegance to the city skyline.
This towering skyscraper features an observation deck on the 73rd floor, making it the highest urban viewpoint in the state. If you plan to take part in this experience, don’t forget your camera!
Location: 701 5th Ave Ste 4000, Seattle, WA 98104-7072.
| Price | Description |
| From $25 USD (standard) | 360-Degree Views |
| From $35 USD (classic access) | 360-degree views $5 voucher for the Sky View Cafe Access to exclusive merchandise |
| From $45 USD (Elite Experience) | 360-degree views $10 voucher for the Sky View Cafe Access to exclusive merchandise Complimentary drink Reserved window seating |
Day 1 Map
Day 2 in Seattle: Innovation, art, and nature
If you’re visiting Seattle and wondering what to do in two days, a trip to the Space Needle and its neighbor, Chihuly Garden and Glass, is a must. Grab a combo ticket and experience two of Seattle’s most iconic and visited attractions. Plus, end your day with stunning coastal views atop the Great Wheel along Elliott Bay’s waterfront.
Space Needle
You’ve probably seen it in the movies! The iconic Space Needle dominates the Seattle skyline and features in the city’s most famous postcards. Its innovative design and impressive height captivate both tourists and locals every day.
Make the most of this two-day guide and visit the Space Needle, home to one of the country’s most legendary stories. The concept for this futuristic structure was first sketched on a napkin, years later, it became a towering reality of steel, glass, and concrete.
Beyond being one of the most visited attractions each year, the Space Needle also stands as a symbol of ambition, innovation, and progress. Its debut at the 1962 World’s Fair put Seattle on the map as a global leader in architectural design.
Be amazed by its uniqueness, take in the 360-degree views from the observation deck, watch the birds soar, and snap unforgettable photos of your trip.
General admission starts at around $26 USD, and the ride to the top usually takes about 30 minutes.
Location: 400 Broad St. Seattle, Washington 98109.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Right next to the Space Needle is the venue that houses the work of acclaimed artist Dale Chihuly. Inside, over 2,000 hand-blown glass pieces come to life in a stunning glass art sanctuary.
The “museum” is divided into eight galleries showcasing over 40 years of Chihuly’s work and experimentation with glass and color.
You’ll find a meticulously designed garden where botanical elements blend seamlessly with the artist’s own creations. Check out the theater, which features a wide selection of videos and short films that reveal the process behind each piece, offering a closer look at Chihuly’s bold and unique artistic style.
The tour ends in the glasshouse, where a 12-meter-tall sculpture made of glass and steel hangs beneath a translucent ceiling. The vibrant installation, composed of red, orange, yellow, and amber pieces, interacts with natural light to produce stunning visual effects.
You can purchase a combo ticket that includes access to both the Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Space Needle, making it easy to visit two of Seattle’s most talked-about attractions in a single day.
| Entry | Price |
| General admission | From $29 USD |
| Senior | From $24.50 USD |
| Youth (ages 5 to 12) | From $22 USD |
| Children (under 4 years old) | Free |
| Entry + Space Needle | From $64 USD |
| City pass | From $97 USD |
Location: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109.
Elliott Bay
Make sure to travel at the right time of year. Seattle offers a beautiful blend of urban and natural attractions, making it an ideal destination during the sunnier seasons when that balance truly shines.
If you’re not sure how to unwind during your two-day trip to Seattle, head to Elliott Bay. Take in the coastal scenery with a relaxing walk along the waterfront, watch ships and cruise liners come and go at the piers, or enjoy the sweeping views from atop the Great Wheel. In Seattle, you’ll find a genuine connection with nature.
Day 2 map of Seattle
What’s the most convenient way to get around Seattle in 2 days?
The most comfortable option for quick, private, and hassle-free travel is to rent a car. Cover your travel needs over 2 days by renting a car that fits your expectations and budget.
Time is golden! Avoid unexpected delays and visit as many destinations as possible. If you want to rent a car, visit the Viajemos.com website and check out the best deals for your trip to Seattle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? Here are some answers to common questions about what to do in Seattle in 2 days.
What is the most iconic place to visit in Seattle?
Over time, the Space Needle has become the city’s most iconic tourist attraction. Its observation deck, perched 150 meters high, offers a stunning 360-degree view. Take in the scenery, and don’t forget to snap a photo to remember the moment!
How many days are recommended for a trip to Seattle?
Spending 2 days in Seattle is enough to enjoy a range of experiences filled with history, culture, and delicious food. If you have more time, you’ll be able to dive deeper and fully enjoy everything the Emerald City has to offer.
What’s the most comfortable way to get around the city?
Renting a car is the most convenient way to ensure quick trips between Seattle’s top tourist spots during your two-day visit. It also gives you the freedom and privacy to explore at your own pace.
Thank you for staying with us until the end! We hope this guide helped you plan your upcoming trip to Seattle. Be sure to check out our blog for more articles filled with exciting destinations and travel ideas. See you next time!