Welcome to the TPT Travel Guide to SEATTLE in Washington, USA! In this article, we’ll share with you tips on which area to stay in Seattle, how to get there from Seattle-Tacoma Airport, how to get around, and the best things to do in the city. You’ll also find a sample itinerary with budget breakdown.
There are four US cities that I’ve always dreamed of visiting. New York, New Orleans, San Francisco, and wait for it, Seattle. Yes, Seattle. It is the fifth city we’ve visited in the United States. Despite its gloomy reputation and friends warning me nonstop about the weather, it surprised us in the best way possible.
In this Seattle travel guide, I’ll break down the best areas to stay, places worth visiting, and food spots to try, so you can plan your trip well and not let Seattle rain on your parade.
SEATTLE TRAVEL CHECKLIST
Before you hit Seattle, it helps to have the basics covered. From entry documents and public transport cards to knowing whether to bring an umbrella or just embrace the drizzle, this checklist has everything you need to make your trip smooth, stress-free, and a little more fun. Think of it as your starter kit for conquering the Emerald City.
Seattle Travel Essentials (Documents & Entry)
- Passport. Make sure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
- US Visa or ESTA. Most travelers to the U.S. need a proper US visa or (if you’re eligible) ESTA (Visa Waiver Program).
- Travel Insurance. Always a good idea in case of emergencies. Getting hospitalized in the US is expensive! You can get budget-friendly travel insurance with PGA Sompo TravelJoy. Just visit www.thepoortraveler.net/protect and use promo code WORTHIT for a special rate.
For Filipino Travelers
- eTravel. Just go to etravel.gov.ph or use the eGov app. This functions as the Philippines’ unified Departure/Arrival Card, Health Declaration, and Customs form.
- Travel Tax. The standard travel tax is P1620 for economy/business class passengers and P2700 for first class.
- Return Flight Booking
- Accommodation Booking. You can find deals on Agoda! Use AGODATPT for 10% off, applicable on select hotels.
Transportation & Attractions
- Seattle CityPASS. Can save money if you plan to visit multiple attractions like the Space Needle and MoPOP. I’ll discuss in detail later.
- Rideshare Apps. Uber and Lyft are widely used if public transport isn’t convenient.
Money & Connectivity
- Credit/Debit Cards. Cards are king in Seattle. Most places happily take credit and debit cards, and you can get by almost entirely cash-free.
- Cash (USD). In case your card gets blocked or you run into other problems with your bank.
- Internet Connection. For maps, rideshares, and quick restaurant searches. Get an eSIM from Airalo. Just visit www.thepoortraveler.net/eSIM, search for USA, and use our promo code THEPOORTRAVELER for 10-15% OFF.
Comfort and Convenience
- Rain Gear. Umbrella or light waterproof or water-resistant jacket; Seattle is famous for drizzle.
- Reusable Water Bottle. Tap water is safe and tasty.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes. You’ll do a lot of exploring on foot.
- Power Adapter. If you’re traveling from outside the U.S., it has Type A and B sockets. Plugs have two flat pins or with one round grounding pin at 120V and 60 Hz.
✅ You can also visit our The Poor Traveler Masterlist. Here, we compiled travel essentials, including immigration requirements and all our recommended hotels and attractions. Just visit this page: TPT Masterlist. Then, scroll until you see the section about Bali. We also have a compilation for other destinations around the world.
UNDERSTANDING SEATTLE
Seattle is the largest city in Washington State and the Pacific Northwest. It is home to over 750,000 residents in the city proper, with the Greater Seattle metro area exceeding four million people.
And like many, our first introduction to Seattle was through pop culture. It’s the city of Grey’s Anatomy and Sleepless in Seattle. Its music scene gave the world Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, and Alice in Chains. Beyond TV and movies, Seattle is also famous for its coffee culture — after all, it’s the birthplace of Starbucks, and locals take their caffeine very seriously. Add fresh seafood, ferries, and mountains just a short drive away, and you’ve got a city that’s as vibrant in real life as it is on screen.
Note that in this article, we will be focusing mainly on Seattle’s City Center, so this guide is more ideal for those who only have a weekend or an extended weekend to spend in the city.
Other info you need to know:
- Language: English primarily.
- Currency: US Dollar (USD, $). USD 1 is around EUR 0.85, SGD 1.27, PHP 58.97 (as of January 2026).
- Modes of Payment: Cards are king in Seattle. Most places happily take credit and debit cards, and you can get by almost entirely cash-free. Coffee shops, restaurants, attractions, public transport, and hotels are very card-friendly. But keeping a little backup cash won’t hurt.
- Electricity Info: 120V, 60Hz. Type A and B sockets. Plugs have two flat pins, while others also have one round grounding pin.
WHERE TO STAY IN SEATTLE
Seattle has several great neighborhoods to stay in, depending on what you’re looking for. As in most other destinations, the closer you are to the city center, the pricier it gets. So if you’re on a budget, consider staying in the areas on the city’s outskirts. But we always prefer staying close to the major attractions to save time and energy.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay
- Downtown/Belltown. Ideal if you want to be in the center of everything — close to Pike Place Market, the waterfront, and easy access to other neighborhoods. It’s walkable and transit-friendly, though it can feel a bit touristy and urban.
- Lower Queen Anne. Northeast of Downtown, puts you near the Space Needle and Seattle Center, with iconic museums, good restaurants, and a more residential feel. The neighborhood has a mix of residential feel and tourist activity, with good walkability and the Monorail connecting directly to downtown. It’s more affordable than Downtown and less trendy than Capitol Hill or Ballard, offering a practical home base that’s close to major attractions.
- Capitol Hill. Perfect if you want a vibrant, eclectic atmosphere with excellent restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. It’s very walkable and has a younger, artsy vibe. It also has a thriving LGBTQ+ community, excellent nightlife, and a mix of historic character and contemporary culture.
- South Lake Union is modern and close to tech companies, with easy access to downtown. It features new high-rise apartments, contemporary restaurants, and Lake Union’s waterfront activities. The area is very walkable, though it lacks the historic charm and distinct character of older Seattle neighborhoods.
- Fremont. Seattle’s quirkiest neighborhood, located just outside the city center. It is home to popular public art like the Fremont Troll and a Lenin statue. It has a bohemian, artistic vibe with vintage shops, indie cafes, and a laid-back, unpretentious atmosphere.
- Ballard. Has evolved from a Scandinavian fishing village into one of Seattle’s trendiest neighborhoods, but the Nordic heritage is very evident to this day. It is known for having the city’s best concentration of breweries and craft beer bars, excellent seafood restaurants, and a popular Sunday farmers market. It is also just outside the city proper.
- University District. Works well if you’re visiting the University of Washington (UW) or want more affordable options, though it’s farther from major tourist sites. Also outside Seattle’s downtown core.
The first four in the list above are within the downtown core of Seattle, while the last three are on the outskirts.
Where We Stayed
Since we have very limited time in Seattle, we decided to stay in the city center. But to be honest, finding affordable hotels in the area was quite the challenge. In the end, we booked a room at Travelodge by Wyndham Seattle By The Space Needle, which is located in the area where the Downtown, Lower Queen Anne, and South Lake Union districts meet.
The room we got was neat and tidy, but you could tell that the property is a bit dated and has seen better days. But it gets the job done: providing us with decent accommodation with useful in-room amenities like wi-fi, a mini-fridge, and a microwave oven. The staff were also incredibly friendly and helpful.
Its main asset really is its prime location near major attractions. You can see the Space Needle from the hotel, and it’s just two blocks from the Museum of Pop Culture and Chihuly Garden and Glass. There are also supermarkets and fast food around the area. It’s a practical, no-frills option that works well if you prioritize location and value over luxury amenities.
In the off-season, you can get a Queen room for as low as USD 67 (PHP 3978) per night. But since we visited during the peak season, we had to pay USD 130 (PHP 7625) per night, including all the taxes.
We booked this room on Agoda.
✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY HERE!
TIP! When you book on Agoda, you can score as much as P5800 OFF if you redeem our discount coupon. Just visit www.thepoortraveler.net/agoda. You can also use our Agoda Promo Code AGODATPT. On the Agoda app, you must first redeem it on the COUPONS tab by entering AGODATPT, then start selecting your hotel and room. Then, upon checkout, enter AGODATPT again in the right field. It will give you 10% OFF, capped at USD 100.
If you don’t have much time and you have a plane to catch, you can also consider staying close to the Seattle Airport. We also did that on a separate occasion. Fortunately, there are plenty of options close to the airport. We booked a room with Red Roof Inn Seattle Airport.
It’s another no-frills hotel conveniently located near the airport. You can access it on foot, but they also offer a FREE 24-hour shuttle service. It is also within walking distance of the train that connects to downtown Seattle. The hotel is showing its age a little bit, with dark hallways and a bit gloomy vibe. But the room we got was spacious, much bigger than the usual hotel room, with a king-size bed, a proper work station, and a bathtub.
In off season, you can get a room here for as low as USD 62 (PHP 4147) per night. But again, it was peak season when we visited, so we paid USD 141.5 (PHP 8288) per night.
We booked this hotel on Klook.
✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY HERE!
TIP! You can also enjoy some discounts here. Just visit www.thepoortraveler.net/klook to automatically redeem our discount voucher. Or enter THEPOORTRAVELERKLOOK for up to P800 OFF.
Top Hotels in Seattle
Here are the top hotels/accommodations in Seattle as rated by travelers online.
🔥🔥🔥 Use AGODATPT for 10% off on select hotels! 🔥🔥🔥
- The Mediterranean Inn. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- citizenM Seattle South Lake. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Mayflower Park Hotel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Hotel Max. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- College Inn – European-Style Hotel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Coast Seattle Downtown Hotel by APA. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- The Dylan, a Baymont by Wyndham. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
Search for more Seattle Hotels!
HOW TO GET TO SEATTLE
Seattle is served primarily by Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, commonly known as Sea-Tac, approximately 14 miles south of downtown. It’s ranked 8th among U.S. airports for passenger activity and served a record 52.6 million passengers in 2024 alone.
The airport is the primary hub for Alaska Airlines and also serves as a hub for Delta Air Lines, with 31 airlines operating flights to 91 domestic and 28 international destinations across North America, Europe, Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East.
Manila to Seattle
If you’re coming from Manila, the only direct flights available are offered by Philippine Airlines. But expect prices to be higher.
If you want to save some bucks and you don’t mind a layover, the most affordable flights connect in Taipei (Taiwan Taoyuan Airport). China Airlines, Starlux, and EVA all offer this route. Asiana and Korean Air are also good options, making a connection in Incheon.
But in our experience, China Airlines, Taiwan’s flag carrier, has the most competitive rates, so we flew with them.
You can book your flights on the airline’s official website. But sometimes, Trip.com has lower rates, so it’s best to compare.
✅ SEARCH & COMPARE FLIGHTS HERE
Seattle Airport Arrival Process
- After landing in Seattle and deplaning, the first thing you need to do is pick up your bags from the assigned carousel. SeaTac is one of the few airports that implement a BAGS FIRST policy, which means you claim your bags first before going through Immigration checks. So yes, do that first.
- Then follow the signs to the US Customs and Border Protection area, where you’ll find a row of Immigration counters. There are separate lanes for US citizens and Global Entry members. If you’re neither, follow the queue for non-US citizens or foreign visitors.
- At the Immigration counter, the officer will check your passport and ask you questions. Once everything is in order, a photo of you will be taken. Then you’re good to go.
SEATTLE-TACOMA AIRPORT TO CITY CENTER
If you want to get a cab or book an Uber or Lyft, just follow the signs to the designated pickup spots. It should cost around $50. But if you’re like us, take the light rail train to the city center.
The Link Light Rail is the most convenient and most affordable way to get from SeaTac to the city center.
Seattle Airport to City Center by Train
- Go up one floor to the SkyBridge Level.
- Exit to the Parking Garage and turn left.
- Follow the signs for Link Light Rail.
- Get a ticket from the machine. Cash and cards are accepted. Fare is USD 3.
- Catch the northbound train on the 1 Line headed to Lynnwood City Center.
- Alight at the station closest to your destination.
Travel Time: 38 minutes
Fare: Regular (19-64 y/o), USD 3; Youth (18 y/o and below), FREE
Operating Hours: SeaTac Station, 4:44 AM – 12:12 AM (December 6, 2025 to March 30, 2026)
In our case, since our hotel was located close to the Space Needle, we got off at Westlake Station. The travel time was 38 minutes.
From Westlake Station, you could take a bus, book an Uber, or just walk to your destination. We decided to walk all the way to our hotel since the weather was pretty chilly, the terrain was flat, and the sidewalk was not crowded at all.
After 20 minutes of dragging our luggage across the city, we finally reached our hotel at around 10 PM. We didn’t do anything else that night. We just rested and caught more sleep.
HOW TO GET AROUND SEATTLE
With its comprehensive public transportation network featuring trains, buses, ferries, and streetcars, Seattle is one of the most transit-friendly cities on the West Coast — most visitors find they can easily explore without a rental car.
Transportation Options
- Link Light Rail. The most convenient way to get around, with the 1 Line running from Lynnwood through downtown to the airport, stopping at major destinations including the University of Washington, Capitol Hill, Westlake, and Pioneer Square. Trains run every 8-15 minutes. Fare: $3.
- King County Metro Bus System. Operating hundreds of routes throughout Seattle with frequent service, including RapidRide lines offering faster trips with limited stops.
- Seattle Center Monorail. Provides a quick 2-minute ride between downtown Westlake Center and Seattle Center for $4. Perfect for reaching the Space Needle and nearby attractions.
- Washington State Ferries. Scenic water transportation, with the most popular route being the 35-minute crossing from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island ($9-10 for walk-on passengers, free return).
- King County Water Taxi. Connects downtown to West Seattle and Alki Beach.
- Streetcar Lines. Serve South Lake Union and the First Hill/Capitol Hill areas.
- Ride-sharing Services. Include Uber and Lyft, which operate citywide, though they can be expensive during peak times.
Payment is easiest with an ORCA card, the universal smart card accepted on all transit systems, including light rail, buses, ferries, and water taxis. Cards can be purchased at light rail stations. The card itself costs $3, but you can top it up or add day passes for more savings using the myORCA app (Android) or the Transit GO mobile app. But if you’re just staying in Seattle for a day or two, you probably won’t need a card. Just purchase individual passes from the machines or the apps.
The ORCA Day Pass ($6) offers unlimited rides for a day and is perfect for tourists. You can also use the Transit GO mobile app to purchase directly from your smartphone. Most fares include a 2-hour transfer window between buses, trains, and streetcars. Use Google Maps for real-time arrival information and directions.
Driving in Seattle is generally unnecessary for visitors staying downtown, as the city is walkable and well-served by transit. Parking is expensive, street parking is limited, and traffic can be heavy during rush hours. However, a car is useful for day trips to Mount Rainier, Leavenworth, or other destinations beyond the city.
SEATTLE CityPASS
Before we list out the best places to visit in Seattle, consider getting a Seattle CityPASS if you’re visiting multiple attractions to save money. It costs $129 for adults and $99 for children ages 5-12 and saves up to 49% on entrance fees. The pass is valid for nine (9) consecutive days beginning on the first day of use, giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace.
The CityPASS includes guaranteed admission to the Space Needle (with day and night visits within 24 hours) and the Seattle Aquarium, plus your choice of three more attractions from options including: Chihuly Garden and Glass, Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour, Woodland Park Zoo, and Pacific Science Center.
For shorter visits, the Seattle C3 pass saves up to 32% on admission to three (3) attractions of your choice from a similar list that also includes the Museum of Flight, Seattle Art Museum, and Sky View Observatory. This works well if you only have a day or two in the city.
The passes are particularly valuable because many of the included attractions (like the Space Needle, Chihuly, and MoPOP) are clustered together at Seattle Center, making it easy to visit multiple sites in one day. Some attractions require advance reservations through the My CityPASS app, so it’s best to plan ahead.
THINGS TO DO IN SEATTLE
Seattle offers an incredible mix of iconic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, world-class museums, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here are the must-see attractions and experiences that showcase the best of what Seattle has to offer.
- Pike Place Market. This historic market has been a cornerstone of Seattle since 1907. Spanning nine acres, it’s home to over 200 vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, flowers, and handmade crafts. Watch fishmongers toss salmon, visit the original Starbucks, and explore the quirky Gum Wall. You can totally explore it DIY-style, but if you want to make your visit more insightful, you can join a food tour instead: Book Pike Place Market Food Tour Here! ✅
- Space Needle. No visit to Seattle is complete without ascending the city’s most recognizable landmark. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the 605-foot Space Needle offers breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, Mount Rainier, and the surrounding mountains. The revolving glass floor adds an extra thrill. Get Your Ticket Here! ✅
- Chihuly Garden and Glass. Located at the base of the Space Needle, this stunning exhibition showcases vibrant blown-glass artwork by renowned Seattle artist Dale Chihuly. The indoor galleries and outdoor garden feature breathtaking sculptures that create one of the city’s most photographed attractions. Get Your Ticket Here! ✅
- Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP). This contemporary museum celebrates pop culture through music, science fiction, fantasy, and gaming exhibits. The Frank Gehry-designed building houses memorabilia from Seattle’s legendary music scene and immersive experiences.
- Pacific Science Center. Perfect for families, this interactive museum features hands-on exhibits, an IMAX theater, a butterfly house, and laser shows that make learning fun for all ages.
- Kerry Park. The best spot for the quintessential Seattle skyline photo with the Space Needle and Mount Rainier in the background, especially at sunset.
- Seattle Great Wheel. This 175-foot Ferris wheel offers stunning views of Elliott Bay and Seattle’s skyline from climate-controlled gondolas, especially magical at sunset or after dark.
- Seattle Art Museum (SAM). Showcases diverse collections ranging from European master paintings to contemporary sculptures and Indigenous art.
- Olympic Sculpture Park. This unique waterfront park combines art, nature, and stunning views with large-scale sculptures along paths overlooking Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains.
- Ferry Rides. Take a Washington State Ferry to Bainbridge Island for a scenic 35-minute cruise across Puget Sound with stunning views of the city skyline and mountains. Book a Cruise Here! ✅
- Coffee Shop Tour. Seattle is the birthplace of modern American coffee, making it a paradise for caffeine enthusiasts. The city harbors hundreds of independent coffee shops and roasters beyond the famous chains, from cozy neighborhood cafes in Capitol Hill and Fremont to sleek espresso bars in South Lake Union, each offering expertly crafted lattes, pour-overs, and locally roasted beans that reflect the Pacific Northwest’s obsession with quality coffee. Don’t miss checking out at least a couple during your visit. Better yet, Join a Coffee Culture Tour ✅
DAY TRIPS FROM SEATTLE
Seattle’s location in the Pacific Northwest makes it an ideal base for exploring stunning natural landscapes, charming towns, and nearby islands.
- Snoqualmie Falls. A 268-foot waterfall with easy viewing access from the parking lot. Take the 35-minute ferry to Bainbridge Island for a walkable village with art galleries, cafes, and waterfront strolls—no car needed. Made famous by Twin Peaks. Book Here! ✅
- Woodinville Wine Country. About 30 minutes north, home to over 100 wineries, including Chateau Ste. Michelle and Columbia Winery.
- Mount Rainier National Park. This is less than 100 miles south, Washington’s iconic 14,410-foot peak with stunning viewpoints like Christine Falls, Narada Falls, and Reflection Lakes, plus hiking trails like the Skyline Loop—note that timed-entry reservations are required during peak summer season. Book Here! ✅
- Whidbey Island. It features dramatic Deception Pass State Park, charming towns like Langley and Coupeville, and excellent wildlife watching.
- Leavenworth. A Bavarian-themed village boasting alpine architecture, German food and beer, year-round Christmas shops, and seasonal events like Oktoberfest.
- Tacoma. Just over an hour south, where you can find the Museum of Glass, Tacoma Art Museum, and Point Defiance Park.
- Olympic National Park. It offers exceptional diversity with mountain peaks, temperate rainforests, and rugged coastline across 900,000-plus acres — popular day hikes vary from 20 minutes to several hours. The San Juan Islands provide naturalist-guided tours, whale watching, and sea kayaking, accessible via Washington State Ferry from Anacortes to Friday Harbor. For an international adventure, visit Victoria, British Columbia (3 hours by ferry or 45 minutes by floatplane) to experience the charming Inner Harbour, Butchart Gardens, and traditional afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel—passport required. Book a Day Tour Here! ✅
SAMPLE SEATTLE ITINERARY
Here’s a sample Seattle weekend itinerary and sample expenses PER PERSON, assuming you’re a group of two. Note that this is heavily focused on the city center only. If you wish to explore the attractions beyond, you can just add days to this.
PRE-TRIP EXPENSES:
Hotel: USD 119 (PHP 6970)
Seattle CityPASS C3: $102 / Full: $129
Sub-Total: USD 221 (PHP 12,945)
DAY 0 – ARRIVAL
07:15 PM – ETA Seattle-Tacoma Airport
08:46 PM – Link Light Rail to Westlake Station, $3
09:24 PM – Walk/Bus/Uber to hotel
10:00 PM – Hotel check in
Sub-Total: USD 3 (PHP 176)
DAY 1 – SEATTLE CENTER
10:00 AM – Space Needle
11:30 AM – Lunch: $20
12:40 PM – Chihuly Garden and Glass
02:30 PM – MoPop
05:00 PM – International Fountain
05:30 PM – Uber to Kerry Park, $6.5/pax ($13)
06:00 PM – Kerry Park
06:45 PM – Walk to Metropolitan Market
07:10 PM – Grab grocery dinner, $20
08:00 PM – Back to hotel
Sub-Total: USD 46.50 (PHP 2,724)
DAY 2 – SEATTLE WATERFRONT
07:00 AM – Early check out, drop bags
08:15 AM – Olympic Sculpture Park
09:00 AM – Waterfront & Pike Place Market
09:30 AM – FOOD TRIP
– Beecher’s Mac and Cheese, $8
– Pike Place Chowder, $15
– Rachel’s Ginger Beer, $8
11:30 AM – Gum Wall
11:45 AM – Explore downstairs
12:45 PM – Hellenika Creamery, $8.50
01:15 PM – Coffee: La Panier, Anchorhead or First Starbucks $8
02:25 PM – Monorail back to hotel, $4**
02:35 PM – Pick up bags at hotel**
03:10 PM – Monorail to Westlake Station, $4**
03:24 PM – Link Light Rail 1Line to Airport, $3
04:15 PM – Seattle Airport
**Skip if you opt with luggage storage near Westlake
Sub-Total: USD 58.50 (PHP 3,426)
TOTAL: USD 329 (PHP 19,271)
Note that the total cost above does not include airfare yet. Please add plenty of allowance to make room for possible price adjustments, incidental purchases, and other costs we may have missed.
To be honest with you, a weekend is severely inadequate for Seattle, so if you can extend it, do so. Just add more days to accommodate a visit to Capitol Hill and other neighborhoods, as well as day trips to destinations outside the city.
SEATTLE BUDGET TRAVEL TIPS
Aside from being rainy, Seattle has a reputation for being expensive, but there are ways to reduce your spending.
- Walk when you can. Seattle’s compact downtown and many neighborhoods are highly walkable, saving you money on transportation.
- Visit in off-peak season. Hotel rates can drop to half the summer prices during Seattle’s rainy season. While the weather is cooler and wetter, most major attractions remain open year-round, and you’ll have popular sites nearly to yourself.
- Take advantage of first Thursdays. Many of Seattle’s top museums offer free admission on the first Thursday of each month. Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is free all day with extended hours and live gallery activations. The Museum of Flight offers free admission from 5-9 pm (normally $30 for adults). The Frye Art Museum is always free, featuring European and American art plus rotating exhibitions.
- Explore neighborhood Art Walks. Pioneer Square (first Thursday), Belltown (second Friday), and Capitol Hill (second Thursday) host free gallery walks where you can explore local art spaces without admission fees.
- Visit free attractions. Seattle offers an abundance of free attractions that rival paid experiences like: Pike Place Market, Seattle Waterfront, Seattle Central Library, Kerry Park, Olympic Sculpture Park, Ballard Locks (Hiram M. Chittenden Locks), and various neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.
- Bring a reusable water bottle. Seattle’s tap water comes from pristine Cedar River and South Fork Tolt River watersheds and is consistently rated among the best-tasting in the nation. It’s perfectly safe to drink straight from the tap, so there’s absolutely no need to buy bottled water.
- Shop at supermarkets for meals. One of the biggest budget-killers is eating every meal at restaurants. If your hotel has a microwave and mini-fridge, take advantage by shopping at local supermarkets like QFC (Kroger), Safeway, Metropolitan Market, and Trader Joe’s. Most of them offer prepared foods, sandwiches, salads, and snacks at a fraction of restaurant prices. Pick up breakfast items like yogurt, fruit, and granola bars to eat in your hotel room.
You can find a Whole Rotisserie Chicken for $8-12 that can feed two people for one meal or provide leftovers for sandwiches the next day. Pair it with pre-made salads or maki from the deli section.
For other tips, you can also check out our SEATTLE TRAVEL MISTAKES article for more information.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SEATTLE
When is the best time to visit Seattle?
Seattle has a notorious reputation for rain. But in reality, it is largely due to the frequency of light, misty drizzle, and perpetual cloud cover, rather than downpours or high volume of precipitation.
But because its main attractions are indoors, you could still say Seattle is a year-round destination.
That said, the ideal time to visit depends on what you’re looking for and what you want to prioritize — whether that’s sunny weather, fewer crowds, or budget-friendly rates.
Summer (June–August) is the most popular season with warm, sunny weather and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor attractions like the Space Needle, Mount Rainier National Park, whale watching, and festivals. However, this peak tourist season brings higher hotel prices, crowded attractions, and the need to book in advance.
Early fall (September–October) is often considered the sweet spot — summer weather frequently lingers with mild temperatures and sunshine, but crowds thin out after Labor Day, hotel rates drop, and attractions are easier to enjoy. October brings stunning fall foliage, though late in the month, rain becomes more frequent as the rainy season begins.
Spring (April–May) offers blooming cherry blossoms, warming temperatures, and lower prices during this shoulder season, though weather can be unpredictable with sunny days followed by rainy stretches — pack layers and a rain jacket.
Winter (November–February) brings cool, wet weather with frequent drizzle, gray skies, and chilly temperatures, but this is the cheapest time to visit, with hotel rates sometimes half the summer prices. February’s Museum Month offers participating hotel guests 50% off admission to major museums. Winter also provides access to nearby ski resorts and festive holiday events, with most attractions open year-round and nearly crowd-free.
The verdict: For the best overall experience, visit late June through early September for warm, dry weather, or September through early October for pleasant conditions with fewer crowds and better prices.
What is the tipping policy in Seattle?
Tipping is big in the U.S., meaning it’s generally expected.
At proper sit-down restaurants, a 15-20% of the bill before tax is the standard tip. For rideshare services and taxis, the normal tip is 10-20% of the fare. For hotel services, these are customary: housekeeping is $2-5 per night, while bellhop/porter is $1-2 per bag.
If you like visiting bars, tipping the bartender $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the total tab is typical. For those planning to do café hopping, you can show your appreciation for your barista or server by giving $1-2 per drink.
Note that some establishments already include an automatic gratuity or service charge, so always check your bill. If the extra service charge goes to the staff/employees, you may opt not to tip (or tip less).
What is the power socket used in Seattle?
Seattle uses Type A and Type B electrical outlets, same as the rest of the United States. It has a standard voltage of 120V and frequency of 60Hz.
Do I need a visa to visit Seattle?
Most travelers to the U.S. need a proper US visa or, if you’re eligible, ESTA (Visa Waiver Program).
Filipino travelers need to secure a visa to enter the United States. B1/B2 visa is a non-immigrant short-term visa that will enable you to enter the United States for business (B1), for tourism (B2), or BOTH.
We created a very detailed guide on how to apply for a US visa — requirements, process, interview questions, and other tips. You can find it here: US VISA APPLICATION GUIDE
Protect your finances when traveling!
Getting a travel insurance is optional, but we highly recommend this, especially when traveling abroad. Travel can be unpredictable, and though we hope we’ll never use it, having it gives us peace of mind in case of unexpected delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For international destinations, consider PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance. You can GET IT HERE. Don’t forget to use WORTHIT for a special affordable rate.
Join The Poor Traveler Support Group
✅ If you have any questions or need travel tips, feel free to post them to the TPT Support Group. The members are very helpful. This Facebook support group has been around for a long time, and many members have found travel buddies through it. You can join too! Just visit The Poor Traveler Support Group. Note that this is different from The Poor Traveler Facebook page.
Updates Log
2026 1 28 – First uploaded
Edited by: Asta Alvarez
