Seattle's Olympic National Park Fun: 3-Day Itinerary

If you are flying in from the Bay Area, a one and a half hour flight to Seattle will get you there around noon. A perfect way to start the trip is a nice brunch at Portage Bay Cafe.

Start your Seattle excursion with the world-famous Space Needle. There’s no better place to be a tourist in Seattle with amazing 360 degree views of the city.

Next stop is the stunning, highly recommended Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum, tucked neatly next to the Space Needle. One of the highlights of the exhibit is the Glasshouse, a large conservatory with a 100-foot-long glass sculpture suspended from the ceiling. This piece, known as the "Glasshouse Ceiling," is inspired by the colors and forms of the Pacific Northwest's natural environment.

Soon it will be time to eat again, so the next logical step is the Pike Place Market. With its many local restaurants and varied food offerings, this Seattle institution is bliss for food lovers and a treat for the senses. It’s also just a short walk from there to the waterfront.

Start early and commence a four-hour drive to Olympic National Park. Drive south from Seattle and pass through the state capitol of Olympia.

There are many beautiful points of interest along the way to Ruby Beach, our first stop. Still, if you have more time, make a stop at Olympia Historic District.

Ruby Beach has a serene natural beauty and is known for its driftwood-strewn shores and rocky outcrops.

The next stop is one of just seven temperate rainforests in the world, the Hoh Rainforest.

It is one of the most famous and well-preserved temperate rainforests in North America. The Hoh Rainforest is known for its incredible biodiversity, moss-draped trees and pristine natural beauty.

The Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center serves as an informative starting point for visitors.

The Hall of Mosses Trail and the Spruce Nature Trail are two popular, and relatively short, trails that provide an immersive rainforest experience.

End day two in Port Angeles, tucked in the Olympic Mountains and considered to be a gateway to the Olympic National Park.

For some locally sourced food, check out Spruce.

Start your day early for a magical drive through the clouds to the other most famous spot in the Olympic National Park, The Hurricane Ridge.

With its unparalleled beauty and marvelous panoramic views, this is a must stop and a bucket list worthy destination.

Time seems to stop while you are there, so make sure to leave enough time to explore this natural gem.

After getting your fill of serenity at Hurricane Ridge, start your drive back to the hustle and bustle of Seattle.

Depending on the amount of time you have, you can visit Boeing Factory or spend time at one of the most popular scenic attractions, Snoqualmie Falls.

Click here for a mapped look of this itinerary.

Places to eat in Seattle:

• Kati Vegan Thai

• Harvest Beat

• Blazing Bagels