
Welcome to Seattle in the Spring!
Travel Dates: March, April, May
Seattle’s spring weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers is key! March and April tend to be cooler and rainy, so you’ll want long sleeves, a light jacket, and definitely a rain jacket or umbrella. By May, it gets warmer, but you’ll still need layers as mornings and evenings stay cool. Comfortable shoes are essential, especially if you’re planning to explore Pike Place Market or take a walk around the city’s waterfront. Sunglasses might come in handy too as Seattle gets some sunny spring days!
Dress Code
Seattle has a casual yet stylish vibe, especially with its laid-back coffee culture and vibrant art scene. Jeans, t-shirts, and comfortable shoes are perfect for exploring the city by day, whether you’re visiting Pike Place or strolling around Capitol Hill. At night, the city’s dress code is more smart casual—so if you’re heading out to a nice restaurant or the theater, a chic jacket or a stylish dress works well. Bring layers for outdoor events and activities like hikes or ferry rides, where temperatures can drop.
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MARCH
39 – 55F (4 – 13C)
Cool, rainy, cloudy skies
3.5 inches
APRIL
43 – 59F (6 – 15C)
Mild, partly cloudy, light rain
2.5 inches
MAY
49 – 66F (9 – 19C)
Pleasant, sunnier, occasional showers
1.9 inches
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for sunnier days, especially when exploring Pike Place Market in May. I loved having these for the warmer afternoons!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for cooler mornings and evenings in March and April.
3. Light Jacket: Ideal for breezy spring days and evenings, especially if you’re by the waterfront.
4. Rain Jacket: Essential for those classic Seattle spring rain showers.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Great for walking around Seattle’s many parks and neighborhoods. I liked having these for comfort and style while visiting the city’s attractions.
2. Skirt: A versatile option for warmer days in May, perfect for brunch at a local café or a walk through Capitol Hill.
3. Dress: Perfect for a nice dinner or a day out at the Seattle Art Museum.
4. Jumpsuit: A great option for both day and night, whether you’re enjoying the waterfront or heading to an evening event.
5. Leggings: Great for casual days or a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for walking through Pike Place, museums, and parks. I found these really practical for all the exploring you’ll do!
2. Flats: Stylish yet comfy for dinners or evening strolls around the city.
3. Sunglasses: A must for those bright spring days when the sun peeks through the clouds.
4. Hat: Great for a little sun protection during outdoor activities like visiting the Washington Park Arboretum.
5. Swimsuit: If your hotel has a pool or you’re visiting a nearby beach, bring a swimsuit!
6. Pajamas: Cozy and comfy after a day of sightseeing.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for a long weekend trip to Seattle, with space for layers and casual outfits.
2. Daypack: Ideal for carrying your essentials like water, snacks, and an extra layer while walking around the city.
3. Purse: Great for a night out or shopping in the Pike Place Market area.
4. Tote Bag: Handy for carrying extras, like souvenirs from the market or snacks for a ferry ride.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layering is key: Seattle’s spring weather changes often, so pack layers you can add or remove easily.
- Rain gear: Rain is frequent, especially in March and April, so a rain jacket or travel umbrella will come in handy.
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking around markets, museums, and parks, so pack comfy shoes for long days.
- Smart casual outfits: Seattle’s food and art scenes are top-notch, so bring something a little more polished for dinners and evening events.

Seattle Spring Travel FAQs
WHICH SPRING MONTH IS THE BEST TO VISIT SEATTLE?
May is the best month to visit Seattle in the spring, with warmer temperatures, more sunshine, and blooming flowers in the parks.
WHAT SPRING FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN SEATTLE?
March: Seattle Restaurant Week – Enjoy delicious prix-fixe menus at some of the city’s best restaurants. 🍽️
April: Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival – A celebration of Japanese culture and cherry blossoms in the Seattle Center. 🌸
May: Seattle International Film Festival – A month-long showcase of independent and international films. 🎬
March: Moisture Festival – A quirky variety arts festival featuring comedy, acrobatics, and music. 🎭
April: Skagit Valley Tulip Festival – A must-see event featuring miles of beautiful tulip fields north of Seattle. 🌷
May: Northwest Folklife Festival – A celebration of diverse music, dance, and art at the Seattle Center. 🎶
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN SEATTLE IN THE SPRING?
Spring in Seattle is perfect for exploring both the city and the surrounding natural beauty. Start with Pike Place Market to sample local food and enjoy the waterfront views. Take a ferry to Bainbridge Island for a scenic day trip. Visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass for stunning art installations, then stroll through the Washington Park Arboretum to see the spring blooms. Don’t miss a visit to the Seattle Art Museum, and if you’re feeling adventurous, hike through Discovery Park for incredible views of Puget Sound.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT SEATTLE IN THE SPRING?
A 3-5 day trip is perfect for exploring Seattle’s main attractions, nearby islands, and enjoying its spring festivals.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Visit Pike Place Market, explore the Seattle Art Museum, and enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Day 2: Take a ferry to Bainbridge Island, visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass, and stroll through the Washington Park Arboretum.
5 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 2-day schedule. Add: Day 3: Spend the day at Discovery Park, hike its scenic trails, and have lunch in Ballard. Day 4: Explore Capitol Hill, visit the Seattle Japanese Garden, and enjoy an evening at a trendy restaurant. Day 5: Take a day trip to Snoqualmie Falls, then return to Seattle for dinner in Belltown.
1 Week: Copy the itinerary of the 5-day schedule. Add: Day 6: Visit the Museum of Pop Culture, then walk through the Seattle Center to see the Space Needle. Day 7: Enjoy the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival or take a wine-tasting tour in nearby Woodinville.
10 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 1-week schedule. Add: Day 8: Take a day trip to Mount Rainier National Park for hiking and scenic views. Day 9: Explore Pioneer Square’s art galleries, then take an underground tour of Seattle’s historic city. Day 10: Revisit your favorite spots or spend the day at the Northwest Folklife Festival in May.
2 Weeks: Copy the itinerary of the 10-day schedule. Add: Day 11: Visit the Ballard Locks to watch the boats and fish ladders, then explore the trendy Ballard neighborhood. Day 12: Spend time kayaking on Lake Union, followed by dinner in South Lake Union. Day 13: Explore the Fremont neighborhood, known for its quirky art, shops, and the famous Fremont Troll. Day 14: Revisit your favorite places, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a relaxing coffee at a local café.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN SEATTLE?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
5 Days
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Dress
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
1 Week
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Dress
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
10 Days
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Skirt
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
2 Weeks
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Skirts
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR SEATTLE IN THE SPRING?
Heavy Winter Coats: Seattle’s spring is mild, so lighter layers are enough.
Thick Sweaters: The weather warms up by May, so heavy clothing isn’t necessary.
Sandals: With rain and cloudy days, closed-toe shoes are more practical.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO SEATTLE IN THE SPRING?
Airfare: $200 – $500, depending on your departure location and booking time.
Accommodation: $150 – $300 per night, depending on location and hotel class.
Transportation: $30 – $70 for local travel, including Ubers or public transit.
Meals: $40 – $120 per day, depending on dining choices, from casual to fine dining.
Activities: $50 – $150 for museum entries, tours, and outdoor festivals.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN SEATTLE? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is typical in Seattle. Around 20% is expected in restaurants, and $1-3 per drink depending on the venue.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SEATTLE BEFORE I VISIT?
- Public transit: Seattle’s buses and light rail are great for getting around without a car.
- Coffee culture: Seattle is known for its coffee shops, so take advantage and explore the local coffee scene.
- Outdoor spaces: Enjoy Seattle’s parks and the waterfront, but be prepared for rain and pack accordingly.
- Local food: Don’t miss out on trying Seattle’s fresh seafood at Pike Place Market or a local restaurant.