What to do in 48 Hours in Seattle WA

So you are spending two days in Seattle, yahoo!! I grew up an hour outside the city and it was always a treat visiting Seattle as a kid. Even in my post-grad days I found myself in Seattle a ton but now that I live 4 hours east my trips are far and few between. Overall I don’t mind the more infrequent trips, I have found the distance has made my heart grow fonder for the area. Now, this is a more obscure list of places to stay and things to do in Seattle. I was actually there for a fashion event held in Pioneer Square so these recommendations are not as tourist-y as my lists normally are. Seattle has a ton of hidden gems to explore and if this isn’t your first trip you are going to love this list!

Stay at the Arctic Hotel

Throughout my time in Seattle I have stayed at a wide array of hotels in the area. From the Pineapple properties to the Sheraton I have seen it all but a new favorite of mine is the Arctic Social Club Hotel located in downtown Seattle. This property was a social club until the 1970s and that vintage vibe still radiates throughout the space. Filled with the cutest walruses and old school decor, this hotel was unlike anything I had ever seen. It was also 15 minutes walking distance from Pike Place Market which was fantastic if you did not have a car and wanted to forgo the light rail.

Another upside to the Arctic was the lounge and bar! I had a few cocktails there with my friend Kit and we had the sweetest bartender Mike who drives into the city from a small town to take care of travelers. It was an experience unlike most I have had over the years as a frequent explorer and I felt cared for it the space. Plus they made a mean Aperol Spritz and Espresso Martini which is a 10/10 from me!

Address: 700 3rd Ave, Seattle, WA 98104

Try Dinner at Japonessa

After settling in to my fabulous hotel, I made sure to grab dinner at one of my favorite sushi spots in town, Japonessa! I discovered this restaurant back in 2017 when I was exploring Pike Place for the first time in college. My friend Kailey and I went and I loved how close it was to the market yet separate enough to be a vibe of its own. Located across from the Seattle Art Museum (another lovely spot should you have time) and the Four Seasons, this sushi and Mexican fusion spot is great for that fish fix. Living in Eastern WA has me eating sushi far less than I used to so I always take advantage of being so close to the ocean and the sound. It just hits different and feels like pure PNW energy. Seattle is a special place and the food scene is no different.

Address: 1400 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98101

Explore Downtown by Foot

This next recommendation is only for those of you who are in shape because Seattle is far hillier than I remember but with the proper sneakers it’s a vibe. I wandered through downtown near Pike Place, the Four Seasons (and popped in for a lovely sandwich at their cafe) and even had a stroll through my beloved Nordstrom Flagship store! If you know me you know I’m a Nordstrom girl and while the shopping options have changed drastically in the past 5 years there are still some gems everyone should pop into.

I will say in full transparency there were some roads on this walk where I did not feel the safest. I know Seattle has been known for it’s houseless population so if you do not feel safe walking around that community I would recommend taking Ubers instead. The joys and pitfalls regarding travel do require an overall awareness and as long as you keep to yourself and look straight ahead you should be fine! Just be aware of your surroundings.

Visit the SODO Starbucks Reserve

I am a HUGE Starbucks Reserve fan! I have been visiting the Capital Hill location for years and had no idea that there was a second location in southern Seattle. Placed in the heart of the Starbucks Headquarters building this Reserve offers food, coffee and delicious cocktails. I personally picked up the peppermint espresso martini and it was to die for. My only complaint was the sheer amount of whipped cream but other than that it was just the treat I needed to get through the evening. I also found this place to be a bit quieter than the other Reserve so if you’re looking for a place to work or have an intimate chat with a friend this is a great place to do so!

Pro tip: while you are there, try the square pizza! I forgot to take a picture but boy was that delicious and the perfect way to soak up the alcohol. I got a pepperoni version but they had a few different flavors based on your preferences.

Address: 2401 Utah Ave S, Seattle, WA 98134

Get a Drink at the Good Bar

Should you find yourself exploring Pioneer Square in the evening on your trip, you need to pop into the Good Bar. Located a few blocks from the stadiums (a great location if you’re in town for concerts!), this two story bar was so cozy and stylish. I had a fabulous chocolate martini and I heard nothing but rave reviews about their charcuterie boards and food overall. When you are there, take a moment to get some photos outside. They had a cute outdoor area and the overall location was very picturesque and felt very “cool girl in the city”. It was also close to my event which was held in an indoor courtyard. If you find yourself at a Cropd event, they tend to take place around this location so you’re going to be in good hands.

Address: 240 2nd Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104

Stroll Pioneer Square

My final recommendation is to stroll Pioneer Square when in Seattle. While I was in town they had beautiful string lights lit up across the park and it was perfect for Instagram pictures. Should you be planning a proposal or just looking to document your trip, this is seriously perfect for photos. I got a ton of great images in my formal dress and had a ton of fun all around strolling the streets. One of the sweetest parts of Seattle is just how chill the city is and it’s become a lot quieter than it used to be so there is a stillness that cannot be beat.

Safe Seattle Travels

I hope this blog posts helps you on your next trip! I have been covering Seattle for years now and the city continues to change and evolve especially as I continue to grow up and embrace different sides of the area. Should you find yourself in Seattle just take a moment to relish in the chaos and appreciate the area for what it is. For more travel content and posts in general, be sure to follow me on Instagram and TikTok.

Until next time,

Lauren

A Seattleite's Guide to 48 Hours in Seattle, WA