How I’d Redo My Trip to Seattle, Washington

For many years I lived near the Idaho and Washington state line. This meant that most of my day trips and adventures in the Evergreen State were to towns like Pullman and Spokane. However, impulsively, on a long weekend, my husband and I decided we wanted to explore Seattle. So, we packed the car and took off.

This was our first time exploring the Emerald City, so we chose to visit the most popular Seattle attractions. We went to the top of the Space Needle, walked around Pike Place, spent an afternoon at the Seattle Aquarium, and even took a harbor tour. While I loved this trip and am grateful to have seen so many bucket-list-worthy destinations, I would do it much differently if the opportunity arose.

If I could redo my first trip to Seattle, I’d not worry so much about the popular tourist attractions, but I’d choose to visit hidden gems. In fact, the following are six destinations I would add to my itinerary.

1. Discovery Park

I learned about Discovery Park after my first trip and I immediately put it at the top of my bucket list. While this is one of the largest parks in Seattle, it's also a destination that does not make it onto many itineraries. This is a 534-acre park on the shores of Puget Sound. It is a place full of history, natural areas, and lots of wildlife. While I want to explore several areas of this Seattle park, I'm most excited to see the West Point Lighthouse, a structure built in the 1880s and one of the few active lighthouses in Washington State.

2. Washington Park Arboretum

I love visiting botanical gardens and arboretums (my absolute favorite is located in Moscow, Idaho), and Washington Park is one you don’t want to miss. It is quite large — 230 acres — and beautiful no matter the season. There are numerous trails for exploring, a visitor center, a gazebo, and more. The Washington Park Arboretum is free of charge, except for the Japanese Garden.

3. Fran’s Chocolates  

As a chocoholic and a lover of all things sugar, you can guarantee that I’m going to find a chocolate shop to visit and Fran’s Chocolates is one I don't want to miss. This shop dates back to the 1980s where cakes and pastries were the main focus. Today, chocolates are what this shop is best known for, and I can’t wait to try many of its products. There are four locations to visit, and I can’t wait to purchase everything from dark chocolate truffles to hot chocolate and dessert sauces.

4. Bainbridge Island

Yes, I know that Bainbridge Island is technically not in Seattle, but it's the perfect day trip destination and just a short ferry ride away from the city. Bainbridge Island is well known for its hiking trails, beautiful gardens, and incredible art. I already have a good pair of shoes on my packing list, so I’ll be ready to explore the town and its trails.

5. Burke-Gilman Trail

When I return to Seattle, I will have my bicycle in tow. This way, I can explore the Burke-Gilman Trail, a rail trail that is just shy of 20 miles. If you complete this trail in it’s entirety, you’ll capture a wide range of views from water and bridges to forests and neighborhoods. If I can’t bring my bike on my next trip, I still plan to explore a small section of this trail on foot – whether walking or running. If you have any recommendations on where to start or stop on this trail, let me know.

6. Olympic Sculpture Park

Olympic Sculpture Park is essentially an outdoor museum along the Puget Sound and is operated by the Seattle Art Museum. It has nine impressive acres and features some truly larger-than-life sculptures that will leave you amazed. Plus, it is spread out among different landscapes, giving you a glimpse into various ecosystems. The park is open 365 days a year and is free to visit. There are also smartphone tours available if you want to learn even more during your visit.

Yes, my first trip to Seattle would look quite different if I had the opportunity to change the itinerary. However, now I have a long list of attractions waiting for me when I return. What other gems in Seattle should I add to my list? Let me know by filling out this nomination form. And, if you are like me and plan to stay for a few days, I recommend booking a vacation rental. There are some incredible options throughout the city.