Framed by mountains, water, and lush greenery, Seattle truly earns its nickname—the Emerald City. This Seattle Travel Guide will help you uncover the best things to do in Seattle, where to eat (especially if you love vegan food like we do!), the top attractions, and helpful travel tips to make the most of your visit.

“To some extent, Seattle remains a frontier metropolis, a place where people can experiment with their lives, and change and grow and make things happen.”

Tom Robbins

Seattle isn’t just the birthplace of Starbucks—it’s a vibrant mix of nature, culture, art, and really good coffee. Whether you’re hiking, sightseeing, or café hopping, Seattle will keep you busy and happy!

Seattle is in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, in the state of Washington. It’s around 160 km (100 miles) south of the Canadian border and about 300 km (186 miles) north of Oregon.

It’s the largest city in Washington and one of the most scenic cities in the country, framed by Puget Sound, the Cascades, and the Olympic Mountains.

“Seattle has one season: rain” 

Tracy Gordon

Let’s get real—Seattle has a reputation for rain. But, compared to other US cities, you might be surprised to know that the average rainfall in Seattle is less than Atlanta, Houston, or even Miami! So, how often does it rain in Seattle? And when is the best time to travel to Seattle?

Rain is more common in the winter months (November to February). July and August tend to be the driest and sunniest.

We visited in mid-March and had it all—sunshine, drizzle, and back to blue skies. No matter the season, Seattle is always worth the trip.

Just bring an umbrella – if you want to look like a tourist!

By Air: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA or “Sea-Tac”) has direct flights from many US cities, Asia (Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing), and Europe.

By Car: I-5 connects Seattle north-south from Vancouver to Portland. I-90 connects it east to Spokane and beyond.

By Train: Amtrak’s Coast Starlight, Cascades, and Empire Builder routes stop at King Street Station. There’s also the Rocky Mountaineer from Canada.

Bonus: The Sound Transit commuter train links nearby towns to downtown.

Seattle is surprisingly walkable—but also hilly! After a day of exploring, you’ll definitely feel it in your legs.

Here’s how to get around:

• Link Light Rail: Runs from Angle Lake to Northgate, with stops including SEA Airport and downtown. Fares: $2.25–$3.50.
• King County Metro Buses: Covers downtown and outer neighborhoods. Fares: $2.75–$3.25.
• Seattle Streetcars: $2.25 one way or $4.50 for an all-day pass.
• Seattle Center Monorail: Connects downtown’s Westlake Center to the Space Needle. It’s fun and quick—just a 2-minute ride ($3.00).
• ORCA Card: Use it on all public transit systems (bus, ferry, light rail, monorail).

Seattle has accommodation for every budget. Here are some we like:

• The Sound Hotel – Belltown
• Residence Inn Downtown Convention Center
• citizenM Pioneer Square
• Motif Seattle – Destination by Hyatt

If you want to live like a local house sitting might be a good way to do so. House sitting gives you opportunities to explore different neighborhoods and be with furry friends, all while saving money for hotels.

Interested in house sitting? Read our full guide here and use our referral code RAF294666 to get 25% off your first Trusted Housesitters membership.

Whether you’re seeing Seattle for the first time or revisiting like us, there’s always something new and exciting to explore. Grab a Seattle CityPASS* or C3 Pass if you want to save on the top attractions.

• Space Needle – Iconic views, especially at sunset!
• Pike Place Market – Fish throwing, food, flowers, and more
• Seattle Great Wheel – A fun ride with Puget Sound views
• Chihuly Garden and Glass – Stunning glass art
• Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) – A must for music, sci-fi, and film fans
• Seattle Aquarium – Great for families and sea life lovers
• Seattle Underground Tour – Explore the hidden streets below the city
• Kerry Park – Best photo spot of Seattle’s skyline

• Fremont Troll – A quirky photo op
• Washington Park Arboretum – Perfect for peaceful walks
• Discovery Park & West Point Lighthouse – City escape into nature
• University of Washington (in spring) – Cherry blossoms in full bloom
• Gas Works Park – Great views and picnic spots
• Chophouse Row (Sundays) – Local food and artisan market

Local Tip: Don’t miss the Capitol Hill Wishing Tree, Bruce & Brandon Lee’s graves, and the black sun sculpture by Isamu Noguchi.

Seattle is a dream destination for plant-based foodies. From food trucks to upscale vegan bistros, here are our top favorites:

• Cycle Dogs – Vegan junk food heaven (try the Hangry fries!)
• ChuMinh Tofu – Our favorite! Affordable, authentic, and addicting Banh Mi

• Ramen DANBO – Vegan options available
• Michou Deli – Grab a Portobello sandwich and eat like a local

• Plum Bistro – Chic vegan dining
• Café Flora – Vegetarian and gluten-free friendly
• Piroshky Piroshky – Try their Impossible™ Beef & Onion piroshky

• Lazy Cow Bakery – Sweet vegan delights in Fremont
• Mee Sum Pastry – Grab a pastry from Pike Place
• Frankie & Jo’s – Vegan ice cream with multiple locations

Tip: We shared a hot cake, it is very rich and plenty for two. 

• Dough Joy & Mighty-O Donuts – Sweet treat perfection

Coffee in Seattle is not just a drink—it’s a way of life. With 149 rainy days on average, it’s no surprise Seattle’s coffee culture is legendary.

• Herkimer Coffee – Dog-friendly, smooth espresso, great downtown vibe
• Storyville Coffee – Our go-to near Pike Place
• Fulcrum Coffee – Rated #1 in Seattle by Coffee Affection
• Starbucks Reserve Roastery – A must-see experience, even for non-Starbucks fans
• Victrola Coffee – Beautiful space, fantastic brew, and local art
• Mr. West Café Bar – Madrona gem with strong pour-overs
• Original Starbucks at Pike Place – Expect a line, but it’s iconic!

“What goes best with a cup of coffee? Another cup.”

Henry Rollins

“Why, yes, I could start my day without coffee. But I like being able to remember things like how to say words and put on pants.”

Nanea Hoffman

We didn’t go bar-hopping (too tired from all the walking!), but Seattle has plenty of great spots to try a craft cocktail or pint.

Breweries We Recommend:

• Cloudburst Brewing – Creative small-batch beers
• Old Stove Brewing – Scenic location at Pike Place
• Outer Planet Craft Brewing – Cozy and local
• Optimism Brewing – Huge space and great community vibe
• Fremont Brewing – Loved their Urban Beer Garden
• Redhook Brewlab – James loved the Long Hammer IPA!
• Seapine & Stoup Brewing, Reuben’s Brews – All worth a visit

Tip: If you want to have a drink, be sure to have your ID with you!

Something Different:

• Rachel’s Ginger Beer – Handcrafted, non-alcoholic and zesty
• Life on Mars – Plant-based food and good drinks
• Inside Passage – For cocktails with a fun twist

Beyond Pike Place Market, Seattle offers:

• Ballard Farmers Market – A Sunday must
• Chophouse Row – Food and artsy vendors

• Washington Park Arboretum – Our favorite spot to walk the dog
• Seattle Japanese Garden – Peaceful and photo-worthy
• Arboretum Waterfront Trail – Serene nature path
• Capitol Hill Dodgeball at Cal Anderson Park – Random and fun!

Seattle may not be known for golf, but there are some gems!

• Jefferson Park Golf Course – City course where Fred Couples learned to play
• Washington National Golf Club – Home of the Huskies, great layout
• Chambers Bay – Host of the 2015 U.S. Open, right on Puget Sound

Seattle isn’t cheap, but there are ways to save. We usually share meals, which lets us try more places.

Eating Out: Expect to pay $10–20 per meal at a casual place

Attractions: Use a CityPASS* or C3 Pass to save

Free Things: Walks, markets, public art, and views at Kerry Park!

We recommend at least 5 days in Seattle. That gives you time to see the highlights, sip your way through the coffee scene, enjoy a park or two, and even sneak in a day trip.

Slow travelers? Add 2–3 more days to unwind and explore the surroundings like Olympic National Park or Mount Rainier.

We’ve been to Seattle a few times now, and it keeps calling us back. We love how international and cosmopolitan the city feels. Add in all the interesting museums, the coffee culture, and the range of vegan restaurants, and Seattle is a city you’ll remember—and want to return to.

We spent 5 wonderful days in Seattle and could have stayed longer. If you’re looking for an awesome city trip, we would 100% recommend the Emerald City!

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