You’ve just landed in Seattle - yay!

Now, your first step is to grab your Seattle airport hire car.

Picking up your car straight from the airport means no waiting around or stressing over public transport.

You can simply put those keys into the ignition, roll down those windows and breathe in that crisp, coffee-scented, Pacific-Northwest air.

Seattle’s got it all, iconic attractions, a quirky atmosphere, and enough activities to keep your itinerary packed.

If you’re a first-timer here and not quite sure where to go or what to see, we can help. 

Buckle up (literally) because this guide is your ultimate checklist for all the must-experience spots in Seattle.

Let’s get into it…

Seattle isn’t shy about showing off, its skyline alone deserves a standing ovation.

While it was tricky to pick just 5 things, I've nailed a great itinerary for first-timers.

Here’s a curated list that’ll have you obsessed with the Emerald City.

Every major city needs a ridiculously tall building where you can sip on overpriced bubbly, right?

Well, for Seattle, that’s the Space Needle. 

Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, it’s the perfect spot for insane views of the Cascades, the Olympic Mountains, and basically everything worth seeing in Seattle.

Thanks to some glow-up renovations, you can now lean against tilting glass walls or freak yourself out on a revolving glass floor. 

Plus, if you’ve worked up an appetite or just need a drink to steady your nerves, you can head to the Atmos Café for local snacks and wine, or grab a seat at The Loupe Lounge for show-stopping mixology with locally influenced food.

It’s time to get that little dose of culture at the MoPOP, Seattle’s home to the world’s most immersive popular culture experiences. 

Pop culture is basically the soundtrack to our lives - Whether it’s blasting through your favorite albums, getting lost in sci-fi and fantasy flicks, playing indie video games, or rewatching that one TV show on a loop. 

The MoPOP lets you peek behind the curtain of your go-to fandoms with mind-blowing exhibits and killer artefacts - covering everything from Nirvana to horror, and all the cool stuff in between.

It’s conveniently nestled in the city center, right next to the Space Needle.

So you can hit up MoPOP, then casually stroll over to one of Seattle’s other impressive landmarks.

Now, if you’re a die-hard fan of the 21-season, 39-time Emmy-nominated TV masterpiece Grey’s Anatomy, you’ve definitely seen these ferries gliding through Seattle’s waters.

Hop aboard, and you’ll feel like you’re starring in your own moody, windswept drama (though I can’t guarantee a run-in with a dreamy neuroscientist along the way).

The ferries take you on a scenic ride to places like Bainbridge Island, Vashon Island, and beyond, offering stunning views of the Seattle skyline, the surrounding islands, and the mountains - the perfect way to escape the city for a bit!

Oh, and keep your eyes peeled! - Seals love to make surprise guest appearances popping their heads up from the water to say hello and they’re total scene-stealers.

Whether you’re here for the views, the vibes, or just to live out your ferry-riding Grey’s fantasy, this is one Seattle experience you can’t miss.

Imagine the roar of the crowd, the crack of a bat, and the smell of fresh popcorn as you settle into your seat at T-Mobile Park.

The Mariners are up, and the energy is electric.

Julio Rodrigez hits the home run of the century.

The crowd goes wild, standing on their feet, screaming, high-fiving strangers. Doesn’t that just sound like the perfect afternoon?

If football or soccer is more your style, make your way over to Lumen Field, where the Seattle Seahawks, Sounders FC, and Reign FC will keep you at the edge of your seats.

The fans are wild, and the excitement is contagious.

And, when the teams aren’t playing, both stadiums offer behind-the-scenes tours.

No trip to Seattle is complete without a visit to Pike Place Market.

As the most visited attraction in town (yes, the market actually holds that title with a staggering 5.4 million visitors last year alone), it’s a paradise for foodies and anyone who loves a good wander around.

Start your adventure by sleuthing out the famous Pink Door restaurant, a local hidden gem serving fresh, dreamy Italian dishes behind a rosy entrance.

And, if you’re craving something sweet or snacky, don’t miss The Crumpet Shop - It’s one of Pike Place’s best-kept secrets, just get there early because their golden delights have a habit of selling out quick. 

I've given you some fun and some adventure, but still can’t leave without giving a bit of safety too because ... this is America.

So here’s some travel safety tips to ensure you have a fabulous trip without any hiccups.

• Don’t be an easy target: Most petty theft is opportunistic - Avoid being a target by skipping the flashy purses or camera bags that scream “I’ve got valuables!” and keep your stuff close and discreet.

• Don’t overshare: Be careful about sharing where you’re staying - It’s not anyone’s business, and telling the wrong person could put your safety at risk.

• Try not to be a vampire: Seattle at night is gorgeous, but avoid wandering alone in dark alleys or quiet streets - Stick to well-lit, busy areas, and always have a plan (A and B!) to get home safely.

• Get travel insurance: Better safe than sorry! - Get travel insurance to cover any unexpected situations.

Well that's about it...

From stunning views to unforgettable experiences, there really is something for everyone in Seattle!