48 Hours in Seattle: A guide to attractions, activities and more!

Plan a fun filled few days, whether you’re visiting from out of town or a Seattle local wanting a vacation close to home. Allow us to add our favourites to your Seattle weekend to-do list, to perhaps rediscover iconic attractions or uncover some new picks. 

The Classics 

The iconic Space Needle, symbol of the city since it’s construction in 1962, is just a short stroll from Warwick Seattle. For those iconic panoramic snaps of downtown Seattle, the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges, Elliott Bay and the islands of Puget Sound, take the breakneck speed elevator up to the 520-foot-high Observation Deck. For the daredevils, take a seat on the new Skyrisers- glass benches and tilting glass walls that make you feel like you’re floating out over the city and step out onto the Loupe, the world's first revolving glass floor. 

Making your way down to the waterfront, take a stroll to Pier 59 for a ride on the festively illuminated Seattle Great Wheel, one of the largest in the country at 175 feet high. Enjoy ocean, sky and city views from one of the comfortable enclosed gondolas or splash out on the VIP experience to skip the queue and enjoy a glass-bottomed gondola.  

One of the oldest farmer’s markets in the country, Pike Place Market overlooks Elliott Bay waterfront. As well as farm-fresh produce, speciality imported food and artisanal crafts, the market encompasses numerous delicious opportunities to eat and drink, as well as the first ever Starbucks. Additional highlights of Pike Place Market are a photograph with Rachel, a bronze pig that is the unofficial mascot of the market, and the street entertainers and buskers who add to the celebratory atmosphere.  

After a visit to historic Pike Place Fish Market with its iconic fish toss tradition during the day, you’ll be eager to sample some mouth-watering Pacific North West seafood for yourself. Find some of the finest produce showcased at Margaux at Warwick Seattle- from the freshest crab, to chowder featuring Pacific Razor Clams and of course, Northwest Salmon prepared in delicious variations.  

The New Hits 

While no visit to Seattle is complete without a wander around the Seattle Centre and Space Needle, why not look a little further to be even more inspired? Situated within the Seattle Centre, Chihuly Garden and Glass combines the avantgarde artworks of glass artist Dale Chihuly with the magnificent natural beauty of a garden. Innovative explosions of colour and pattern fill the centrepiece 40-foot Glass House, as well as the garden and eight galleries that are sure to delight the whole family.  

The Amazon Spheres are an innovative recent addition to the Seattle cityscape- three interlocking spherical conservatories that form part of the Amazon HQ workspace and employee common areas. While tours of the domes themselves are limited and need to be reserved, the view from the outside is just as intriguing. Relax on the lawns or public seating outside, also surrounded by lush foliage, and take in the views of this indoor jungle visible through the more than 2,600 panes of glass that make up the structure.  

If weather is fine, continue your day outdoors by hiring bicycles to get a different perspective on Seattle. Follow the Burke Gilman Trail that winds along the cleverly repurposed Burlington Northern Railroad railway line through the city for almost 19 miles from start to finish. Beginning in Golden Gardens Park, the trail makes its way through some of the most picturesque Seattle neighbourhoods and along Lake Washington. Make a stop at Matthews Beach Park, the ideal spot for a breather on the beach or dip in the lake.  

Ideally situated as your base for exploring the city, Warwick Seattle in downtown offers polished yet comfortable accommodation within easy walking distance of most of our recommendations. For visitors wishing to explore further afield, the Monorail and Central Link light rail system are just a few blocks away. The gourmet restaurant Margaux and heated indoor swimming pool and whirlpool offer the perfect after-hours relaxation when you return from a day of exploration.