Robin Denise 
As a New York girlie, my early travels were centered around the East Coast so Seattle was not originally on my radar. Trips to places like Virginia, Boston, North Carolina, Jersey and D.C. were easy and convenient. I also went to college in Philly, so I lived for quick trips via Greyhound or a short Amtrak ride. Planning my first trip meant creating a guide to Seattle, Washington.
However, as my travel palette expanded, I became more interested in seeing other parts of the country. Seattle has grown in popularity over the years due to its growing culinary scene, welcoming environment, and pop culture connections (we see you Starbucks and Grey’s Anatomy). During my first visit, I was blown away at how much this city has to offer just about everyone. This is a place you can enjoy as a solo traveler or explore with the entire family. So whether you’ve already began exploring that part of the country, or are looking for a new adventure, here’s an itinerary of everywhere you should eat, play, and lay your head down in Seattle, Washington.
Stay
Fairmont Olympic Hotel
The Fairmont Olympic is for the people who know that a good hotel is one of the most important elements of a trip. A hotel with a beautiful interior and even more impressive customer service and amenity offerings. And yes, I’m side-eyeing the “We only sleeping there, so it doesn’t matter” folks. Because after a long day of exploring and having fun, you want to return to a place that can be relaxing and comfortable.
Celebrating 100 years in 2024, the hotel has a rich history within the city that spans the last century. It underwent a massive renovation back in 2020 and everything looks and feels brand new. The rooms are spacious and modern, with all the amenities you need for a cozy stay. The lobby features the Olympic Bar, a circular hangout spot to enjoy a drink in the center of things. I also had a whiskey neat in their speakeasy called the Founder’s Club, which feels straight out of the 1920s. This was truly one of the nicest hotels that I’ve ever stayed in.
The State Hotel
The State Hotel is an artsy hotel in the heart of the city, perfect for being in a central location with access to everything. The rooms themselves are cozy and modern, perfect for a weekend stay. My favorite part of this hotel was the local art that you can find throughout the hallways and rooms. The State Hotel also has an interesting history of its own that adds to its flair. The hotel was originally built in 1904 as a medical office building, but later served as a gambling hall, billiard, and restaurant. We love a place with some character and an interesting backstory.
What to Do
Seattle Space Needle
The Seattle Space Needle is one of the most recognized and iconic features of the city. Find any images of the Seattle skyline, and you’re guaranteed to see the Space Needle in the background. This historic landmark is over 600ft tall and visitors can purchase tickets to go up to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city. There’s also a level with a revolving glass floor, where you can enjoy a drink while rotating around the city.
Chihuly Museum of Glass
This was one of my favorite parts of the trip, that I would go back anytime that I am visiting. The Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum is an exhibit showcasing the glass work of artist Dale Chihuly. I was unfamiliar with Chihuly’s work prior to entering the museum, and I was completely blown away with the beauty and sophistication of his work. It’s not a large museum, so you can get through it in a relatively short period time. After you finish enjoying the museum, check out The Bar at Chihuly Garden and Glass, which has some refreshing drinks and delicious food options.
Taste Washington – Wine Festival
To know me is to know that ya girl loves wine so my first time experiencing Taste Washington was epic. Taste Washington happens every March and is the U.S.A.’s largest single-region wine and food festival. The festival has different events over the course of a few days and ends with the Grand Tasting. You’ll get to taste wine from over 200 Washington state wineries and indulge in small bites from over 50 restaurants. It is such a fun time and you can get the sense of community, whether it was sharing some of our background or toasting to a good wine sample. This is the type of event you plan your travel around because you do not want to miss it.
Pike Place Market
The Pike Place Market is a staple of Seattle and one of the most recognized icons within the city. The Market has been serving as a spot to visit, shop, eat, and hangout for over a century. You’ll find fish markets, record shops, sit down restaurants, a cute tea shop, and dozens of other business. The actual market spans nine acres of Downtown and is a huge tourist hub. Make sure you stop by the infamous gum wall, which is equal parts gross and intriguing.
Where to Eat
- Pho Bac: I had no idea how big Pho was in Seattle until I visited the city. There was an influx of Vietnamese refugees living in Seattle after the Vietnam war and so Pho Bac (originally Cat’s Submarine Sandwich Shop) was opened to give them a little taste of home while sharing the Vietnamese cuisine with others. It’s a must that you visit this OG family-owned restaurant, still providing Pho to the community 60 years later.
- Emmett Watson’s Oyster Bar: There’s no way you visit Seattle and not get your hands on fresh seafood and of course oysters. I found this place tucked off to the side across from the busy Pike Place Market building. Emmett’s was less crowded than other spots and thus the service and atmosphere was better. I had the fried shrimp and chips and the shrimp were so tasty and crispy. Of course I had to get some oysters and these were some of the freshest oysters I’ve ever had. They say that the Pacific Northwest holds the crown for the best oysters and after this lunch, I was a believer.
- Canlis: If you’re looking for an upscale restaurant that is perfect for a special occasion or honestly just because you deserve to eat good, go to Canlis. It is such a popular spot that it is consistently booked out months in advance. I loved the modern design. which features large glass windows overlooking Lake Union. There were so many delicious courses that I could not keep up. I also sabered my first champagne on the roof of the restaurant, a story for another time.
- Hellenika Cultured Creamery: One thing I’m always going to do on a trip is find a little something sweet, it’s my inner Black Auntie that needs it. Hellenika has Greek-inspired cultured treats that are creamy and delicious. They had some classic flavors and some really unique ones like marionberry, gochujang, thin mints and ube-coconut. Grab yourself some gelato and enjoy it while walking around and exploring the area.
Getting Around Seattle
One of the best things about Seattle is that most of the city and downtown area is fairly walkable. I was able to access so many restaurants and attractions just by walking out of my hotel. I’m also big on trying out public transportation in different cities. I found Seattle’s buses easy to navigate ($2.75) and the above-ground Seattle Center Monorail was really cool to ride ($4).
Everyone should have Seattle on their list of places to visit in the United States. The walkability and sense of safety make it a great location for a mini-solo trip. It’s a great location for travel year round, but summers in Seattle hit differently. Pack your duffle bag and walking shoes, and go see what the Emerald City has to offer.
