City Guide
Seattle
Markets, waterfront, modern architecture and distant Mount Rainier views, with strong rainy-day alternatives.
Must See
6 specific places
Pike Place Market
Morning market, food and street photography.
Space Needle
Seattle Center and panoramic city views.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Glass art and controlled indoor light.
Kerry Park
The classic skyline and Mount Rainier viewpoint.
Seattle Waterfront
Piers, ferries and Elliott Bay.
Museum of Pop Culture
Frank Gehry architecture and pop-culture exhibits.
Suggested Route
A practical first visit
Use one day for the market and waterfront, one for Seattle Center and a third for ferry or nature, prioritizing mountain views in clear weather.
Plan Ahead
The planning note that matters
Weather windows are short: prioritize outdoor views when clear and use museums when wet. Ferries double as transport and sightseeing.
Photography
How to photograph it
Use a medium telephoto at Kerry Park to enlarge Rainier; on wet days work with reflections and subdued color.
Before You Go
Pre-trip checklist
- Confirm opening days, reservations, tickets, parking and local transportation.
- Schedule the item most affected by weather, light or crowds first.
- Save offline maps, parking, meeting points and the last reliable supply stop.
- Pack water, sun protection, rain gear, layers and comfortable walking shoes.
- For sunrise, sunset or night shoots, protect return time and respect local boundaries.