How to Spend 48 Hours in Seattle

Being located in the north of the country and relatively close to the Canadian border, it tends to get overlooked for the more well-known southern cities and states. But for those who make the trip, possibly after summer camp, you'll find some of the most beautiful sights the country offers, and you'll see things that few tend to.

So, if you've got 48 hours in Seattle to fill, here are our favourite things to do in that time.

Usually, we would never be so quick to recommend a big chain such as Starbucks in an itinerary for a city, over an independent coffee shop.

However, that's slightly different in Seattle, as this coffee chain has its origins in the city. The very first Starbucks store opened on Pike Place in 1971 and is now called 'The original Starbucks', which is very popular among tourists. During the high season, there is a queue with people waiting on the street to get in, and you'll certainly be waiting a fair bit.

Lack of time? Skip this one and head to the one in the Capitol Hill neighbourhood instead. This is a kind of XXL version of Starbucks where the coffee is roasted, there is a good bakery in the shop, and where you can buy a lot of nice Starbucks merchandise.

Seattle's most famous spot is Pike Place Market.

No tourist visits Seattle without visiting Pike Place Market; it's as simple as that. This largely covered permanent market is mainly intended to bring fresh products directly from the source to the consumer. This has resulted in a lively market where locals and tourists alike love to buy all kinds of delicacies or just stroll around sampling what is on offer.

There are several catering establishments in and around Pike Place Market where you can eat mainly fresh fish and shellfish, but also other dishes if the seafood doesn't take your fancy.

It was tough enough even writing this part, but if it doesn’t gross you out, check out the extremely odd yet famous stop near Pike Market; the Gum Wall.

What began as a quirky thing to do for patrons of the local theatre suddenly became a cult hit tourist attraction, with each person adding their own piece of ‘art’.

There are several museums in Seattle that are worth checking out, but one that definitely deserves a visit during your 48 hours in Seattle is the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP).

This museum used to be called Experience Music Project (EMP), or the Experience Music Project and Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame, and provides the ultimate throwback for music lovers.

Although music, specifically pop music, is an important part of this museum, there is much more to see and experience. For example, there is also a large exhibition devoted to science fiction and horror films, meaning even film buffs will love it, too.

The absolute main attraction of Seattle is the Space Needle.

The tower is the city symbol, and if you've looked at any picture of Seattle, you've likely seen it, as it dominates the skyline. The Space Needle was built on the occasion of the 1962 World's Fair and towers over the city at 184 m high.

It is well worth taking the elevator up to the observation deck, to the dizzying height of 160 metres. The view over the city and the surrounding mountains is one you won't be able to forget, which is especially the case towards sunset.

There is also a restaurant with panoramic views, so you can enjoy a snack and drink afterwards. It's not cheap, but it's worth it.

The greenery of Discovery Park is located on the northwestern tip of Seattle and offers a wonderfully serene retreat in the form of nature.

This leafy area includes green lawns, dunes, and even a beach, with some beautiful walks mapped out. It's the perfect place to escape the busy city life.

Another option is Volunteer Park, just north of Capitol Hill. The water tower has a height of 135 metres and is another excellent place to view the Seattle skyline.

Seattle is home to the aircraft manufacturer Boeing, meaning it's a must-visit for flight fanatics.

You can visit the Boeing factory in Everett, north of Seattle, where large passenger aircraft such as the Boeing 777 and Boeing 787 are built. During a tour of the factory, you get a real insight into the inner workings of how plane construction is carried out. Even more captivating is the Museum of Flight, which can be found on the south side of Seattle, about a mile from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

You can see all kinds of aviation masterpieces in this museum, from historical artifacts to concept designs.

One of the most exciting things to do in Seattle is getting subterranean and going on an Underground Tour.

After a massive fire in 1889, the city was rebuilt, and the streets were raised. Therefore, the original ground floor was located below street level. During a guided tour, you can look under the ground, seeing history in front of your eyes.

It presents a remarkable encounter with the city's past.

Pioneer Square is an important area in the history of Seattle as in 1852, the city was founded here.

You can still find several historic buildings from that time still existing here, despite the great fire in 1889. It's undoubtedly been modernised since and it is a wonderful place for shopping, eating, and drinking. You should also pay your respects at the totem pole found here, a symbol and appreciation back to the city's inhabitants.

You will find many bars and restaurants here, so it's a great way to wind down after a hectic 48 hours in Seattle.

Further tips for travelling Seattle

• As with most major cities, Seattle's transport system is well connected, flexible and easy to use. If you get yourself on an ORCA card for $5, you can then top it up with whatever value you need, and it will work on getting you around on most forms of transportation (aside from the monorail).

• Everywhere in the United States, including Seattle, tipping is expected. Whether it's a taxi driver, a porter, a hairdresser, a valet assistant, a waiter or other services: you should pay a tip. 15% to 20% is good.