Related: Seattle Itinerary - Best three days in Seattle by a Seattleite. Instead of making Lenin a father like presence, as common in Soviet republics at the time, the artist created an angry, striding figure. I'm planning to fly to Seattle on a Tuesday morning and drive directly to Vancouver by car. Despite this, rain is possible any time of year in the coastal Pacific Northwest. . Make sure to have a reservation for your vehicle for the ferry. After setting up base, head to Granville Island. I w. In case you needed a reason to visit London Best things to do are: Pike Place Market and Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. I booked my tour on day 3 of the trip, however, about 2 hours before we were supposed to go out I got an email that due to bad weather the tour is canceled. Two of Washington's best art communities are found along the road between Seattle and Vancouver: La Conner and Fairhaven. This German-influenced town is a bustling little metropolis with tons of shops, restaurants, and hotels. Summer also has long hours of daylight. I am a Seattleite and I go to Vancouver and Victoria frequently. Check the BC Connector schedule and fares from Vancouver to Victoria here. Make sure to explore all the piers, so if you are facing the water, start out by going left, which will take you to the amusement park, the aquarium and other attractions on the lower piers. Enjoy that for lunch after you explore the gardens (get a reservation). I will write more about this topic later, but for now, lets get back to the waterfront. In many paid US campgrounds, you can drive in, fill out a self-registration form, deposit cash into an envelope and pick an unoccupied campsite. Its about a mile to walk there from downtown, or you can take the bus. They have done an amazing amount of work on it recently. Should we cut down anything? Day 6, we would be flying out of Seattle. I booked my trip for day one, and unfortunately, it was canceled due to high winds. If you havent eaten yet youll see many little stores advertised along the road, but if you wait just a bit youll make your way into Winthrop, a historical recreation town thats just too cute to pass. I strongly recommend booking a hotel in the downtown area in Vancouver, Victoria and Seattle if you are doing your trip without a car. Interstate 5 is not only the most direct route between Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia, it also offers plenty of lovely scenery to enjoy while you driveor even while you relax on a BoltBus. Public transitLink Light Rail in Washington andCanada Line in B.C.will get you from town to your flight and vice versa in 30-40 minutes for under six bucks. Ferries run once a day except from May to September, when they depart twice daily. The Amtrak Cascades route, which takes you from Seattle to Vancouver must be booked in advance, I suggest at least a couple of months in advance for this popular route. The train to Vancouver leaves at 7:45 am, and so you will need to get up early today. After that, continue your exploration of Indigenous Northwest Coast art and culture with a visit to the Bill Reid Gallery. There is much to do in this town, but on the first day, I suggest exploring the area. In Whistler, there is the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre that I think is a good attraction. Vancouver, Victoria and Seattle without a car Vancouver, Victoria and Seattle driving itinerary Where to stay in each city Tips for getting around each city Day 1 - Vancouver Day 2 - Vancouver Day 3 - Vancouver to Victoria Day 4 - Victoria Day 5 - Victoria to Seattle Day 6 - Seattle Day 7 - Seattle Washington State is home to over 33,000 farms, so you'll have no shortage of options to choose from when driving between Seattle and Vancouver. If its summer, make sure to check out the International Fountain, which is set up for splashing and has music and lights. Worth the $7 ticket and a great way to spend a day. Aviation enthusiasts will want to check out the historic airplanes at The Flying Heritage Collection, also located at Everett's Paine Field. All of my trips are on Vero first please be sure to follow me @ traveltipster. These cookies do not store any personal information. If youre driving, youre likely going to start and end in either Seattle or Vancouver and you can drive between them at the beginning or the end on Day 1 or 7. Besides driving, buses offer the most flexibility for travel between Seattle and Vancouver, especially if youre on a budget. Thanks for subscribing! It has become a star brand in the local collection doll market in the United States, and has been authorized by more than 100 well-known companies, including Marvel, DC, Disney . Local favorite galleries include Gallery West, Artwood, and Renaissance Celebration, but newer additions like Whatcom Art Market and Uptown Art Studio also offer great places to shop for unique pieces of art. Or he is here to highlight the beauty of the bridge. So will have that day and full day the next, flying out late the third day. I've been a tour guide for many years in both Alaska and Washington and am a field editor for the Milepost. Although this may not sound particularly appealing, believe it or not, this is a great way to explore False Creek, including the famous Granville Island. In summer, it can get quite hot and many buildings do not have air conditioning. I use several price aggregate networks to price shop and find the best deals in the area. Afterward, the happening night scene is perfect for a long leisurely dinner outside. Instead of heading up to crowded & touristy (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? A day trip from Vancouver to Victoria will take 13-14 hours, with 4 hours of that travelling each way and will be restricted to the bus. Make sure you check out the Seattle forum, and read through the top questions there for some other ideas. Chuckanut Drive is Washington's original scenic byway, which runs 20 miles from Burlington to Bellingham along the shoreline of Samish Bay on Washington State Highway 11. In just a couple of days in Vancouver, I saw countless birds, including entire flocks bald eagles. Im so glad to have you along on the journey to experience your best adventure in Washington, Alaska and Western Canada! more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. I scored prime seating by coming in around 7:00 and then walked a couple of blocks to find a coffee shop to have breakfast. You'll be there by lunchtime and you can enjoy the village and the scenery. If youre driving, you might tempted to stay elsewhere but keep in mind that traffic in all three of these cities is pretty intense and youll probably be happier parking your car at a downtown hotel and walking or taking transit for sightseeing. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. And there is also the Chihuly Glass exhibition. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The Victoria Clipper ferry which is a foot ferry that whisks you from Victoria to downtown Seattle goes right from the Inner Harbor. We are 4 adults (two in 30s, two in 60s) and one child (1.5 years). So unless you are coming in looking for a specific thing (and before you purchase tickets be sure to check at the cash register that it is open, I was not told Star Trek was closed) I would advise skipping this stop. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. For many people visiting Seattle, Washington, a quick trip up to Vancouver in southwest British Columbia, Canada, makes for a great addition to their West Coast vacation itinerary. There are many places to stop along the way including beautiful scenery spots, recreation areas, and plenty of places to take pictures. Around 11 pm, check out of your hotel and start making your way to pick up the rental car of your choice. Of course, ensure you prearrange the car rental a few weeks in advance for best options. Make sure you dont miss Rogers Chocolates and Munros Books as well as Murchies Coffee and Tea. At Capilano, you can walk high bridges and walkways suspended in the middle of the rainforest canopy and across the canyon. Additionally, in the highly unlikely event that you dont see a whale, Seabreeze will take you out again the next day, thus greatly increasing your chances of actually seeing the whales. Enjoy another evening with dinner in the Inner Harbour, or walk out to Dallas Road for fish and chips near the breakwater and an amazing sunset. We also recommend stopping by La Conner Seaside Gallery, Caravan Gallery, Blackfish Gallery, and Cassera Arts Premiers for even more great art. The ride, which leaves several times a day, only takes about 90-minutes, but once you dock a t the ferry terminal, its another hour on public transit to downtown Vancouver. There are no shortages of places to eat here. If you take the Victoria Clipper, the trip is just 3 hours. Late September through June having waterproof footwear is a really good idea, or at least footwear that wont be uncomfortable if you get wet. <>. There are two major outlet shopping malls located along Interstate 5 between Seattle and Vancouver. In Spring and Fall, weather is much less predictable and different types of weather are possible even in the same day. How far is the drive from Seattle to Vancouver, BC? Kenmore Air and Harbour Air offer private charters, allowing you to skip the airport, but both have temporarily paused flights between the two countries. Alternatively, if youve already done the Chihuly, museum consider the Boeing factory tour. By. Here, take 153 to route 97 which will eventually take you all the way through Chelan Falls. Whether you're interested in airplanes or radiosor anything betweenthere's plenty of science and history to discover in northwest Washington. If youd prefer to explore some of Vancouvers natural wonders, take the Seabus to North Vancouver and then the bus to Grouse Mountain. Register Profile Send me a quote Email this page No ratings yet Add review: Call 877 479-2500 for more information or to book today! Since London was named the best city for 2023, her, heres to future garden parties and slow weekend, hey there! Walking the Village Stroll is always pleasant to do. For now, prepare to move to Vancouver, a Canadian city just a few hours north of American Seattle. Several major airlines, including United, Delta and Alaska, fly non-stop from Seattles Sea-Tac Airport to Vancouver International daily in about an hour. In the afternoon, head to the Ballard neighborhood to explore the Ballard Locks and Golden Gardens Park which has one of the best beaches in Seattle. If you are looking to camp, like I was, keep driving until you are in the recreation area. Then eventually drive back to tour Seattle before heading back the following Tuesday. I did this walking tour with Seattle Sidewalks, although you can do it on your own, I love to join the free walking tours (the guides work on tips) and learn tidbits of fascinating information I wouldnt know otherwise. Wander around and find food for lunch as you explore this gem in Vancouver. More info. Day 4: Vancouver, Seattle to Vancouver via Amtrak Day 5: Seattle, Start Cascade Mountain Loop Day 6: Cascade Mountain Loop Day 7: Finish Cascade Mountain Loop, Seattle. Youll have opportunities to pick up wood before entering the national recreation area, so be sure to do so if you plan on enjoying a fire, and some smores on a beautiful evening in Washington State. Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) OR Woodland Park Zoo, Chihuly Garden and Glass OR Pacific Science Center. The station is only a few minutes away from downtown Vancouver and I suggest staying in the middle of it all. capital, Victoria, that will take you just under three hours. I don't recommend this, not with a toddler. You can find restaurants in every price range at Pike Place Market ranging from cheapest sandwich joint to a high-end seafood restaurant. In a car, its a quick shot up I-5 from Seattle to the Canadian border and on to Vancouver. Dj vu! . Four companies make the journey up Interstate 5 across the Canadian border. Arrive in Vancouver, BC. The boat, which only holds about 20 people was far more intimate than some competitors, and because you are closer to the water you get a much better perspective. This journey takes 3 hours plus any possible border delays. All the stores in Winthrop have old west storefronts and decorations, and there are no shortage of restaurants or places to shop here. Here youll find miles of elevated walkways, ponds stocked with fish to attract birds, great educational activities, and guides. All of these cities are very casual, while you can dress up if you want to, youre not likely to encounter a situation where any kind of dressing up is required. Farther north along Interstate 5 is the historic district of Fairhaven, located just south of downtown Bellingham, which has many locally owned shops and galleries where you'll find a great selection of affordable and unique items. As you keep going east on 20, you will eventually make your way out of the Ross Lake National recreation area. Theres so much wonderful food and there are so many locals selling local products and food. The bus is cheaper than the train and takes almost the same amount of time, so it's a great option for travelers who want to save some money. One of the great joys of traveling to the pacific north-west is the incredible variety of wildlife you will spot here. If you are up for another night of camping, on the other hand, continue your path into the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Seattle to Vancouver: 7 Things to See on the Road, Seattle to Vancouver Canadian Border Crossings, North Cascades National Park: The Complete Guide, Bellingham and Whatcom County Travel Guide, Why Road Tripping in an EV Slows You Downand Why That's a Good Thing, 10 Top Things to Do on Whidbey Island, Washington, 17 Best Things to Do in Spokane, Washington, 11 Best Things to Do in Sheridan, Wyoming, 9 Best Things to Do in Vancouver, Washington, Getting Around Seattle: Guide to Public Transportation. Regardless of the route you take from Seattle to Vancouver, you're in for a beautiful trip through the PNW. This was work commissioned in Soviet-occupied Czechoslovakia, and its actually a subtle protest piece. Id recommend having lunch there also and then making your way down to Pioneer Square. Do not go into Chelan, which is an industrial area with nothing to see, but go to Chelan Falls instead. Besides the cool industrial abandoned gas plant, a famous Seattle site, here you will be able to see the Seattle skyline in all its glory. So you are planning to use Squamish as your base for Whistler? The first is to go right and follow the Cascade Mountain Loop, this is the shorter trip that will take about a day. I would suggest aiming to be one of the first set of people to check in because seating assignments are done on the spot and your best chance for window views on the water side is to show up early at the station. 5 Days 4 Nights. My favorites were Yaletown for the cool umbrella display (another place for a great social media picture) and the village for the opportunity for incredible evening shots. It even costs less than the space needle, and of course, you will get classic Seattle pictures featuring the needle. For whale watching, I traveled with Seabreeze Adventures. Try another? If, on the other hand, you want to hit all the major attractions City Pass makes sense. After you arrive in Vancouver, Canada and leave your bags at your hotel, make your way to the water. I also recommend the Wing Luke Museum in the nearby International District (another great alternative for lunch). For this trip, I wanted to create an active itinerary that would incorporate some of the greatest attractions of the area. There is much to do here, and you can spend hours exploring the shops, the fish market, the flower market and much more. Most exhibits are fairly narrow and the only appeal to people who are very familiar with this specific franchise, for instance, a fantasy exhibit which is primarily lord of the rings based. >>. It will make your life so much easier to be close to transit and make it easier and faster to get around. Temperatures are usually in the 40s Fahrenheit during the day, but can be warmer or colder. For the next two days, we are going to drive the Cascade mountain loop a stunning road trip you must see to believe. The lines at the tower are huge just to pick up tickets, the wait is about 45 minutes. This is a fantastic place to pick up souvenirs of your trip, as I find nobody is ever disappointed at getting a gift of high-end chocolate. If youre traveling with your own car, the drive downtown is about the same length, depending on traffic. Victoria is an excellent whale watching destination, the best option of the cities youre visiting on this itinerary. The PNW is known for spectacular national parks, famous urban centers, mild weather and welcoming local residents. Depending on the weather you can easily alternate my suggested itinerary for day 3 and day 4 in Vancouver. You can join one of a dozen free walking tours here ask your hotel for a recommendation. Misnamed, rather than a wall, this is actually an entire alley covered with bubble gum. Finally, tonight, there is one more stop to make before leaving town. After watching some flying fish, I made my way to the second floor and had lunch at Honest Biscuit, a small place with delicious biscuit sandwiches, easily accompanied with a beer from next door. From Victoria, youll need a second ferry headed for Vancouver or, more accurately, for. The tour guides (who work on tips) will walk you through the neighborhood and share a bit about this famous areas history and notable attractions. To get a good idea of what you can expect to see, read until the end and familiarize yourself with this . After you check into your hotel, take a walk around the Inner Harbour and have dinner in view of all the boat and float plane activity. Today, Id like to challenge you to another mode of transport, one you may not have considered yet. While youre in Stanley Park, check out the Vancouver Aquarium and learn all about the animals of the Salish Sea. Sports on TV & radio: Local listings for Seattle games and events ; Snow in winter in each of these cities definitely happens, but its a big event that happens once or twice a year, sometimes not at all. Tickets cost $45 - $65 and the journey takes 4h. If you like to travel car free, then this itinerary is perfect for you. Have a leisurely morning with breakfast at your hotel, or take a walk on one of Vancouvers amazing trails before catching your bus to the ferry. Even though its very busy with visitors, Butchart Gardens is a must do in Victoria for most visitors. If youre not sure about the Space Needle, let me assure you that checking it out from below and taking a photo is totally ok. You definitely do not want to miss Chihuly Gardens and Glass, a gorgeous glass art museum right below the Space Needle with great views of it. After searching for some time we saw two killer whales hunting for a meal. The birthplace of companies such as Starbucks and Microsoft, this urban oasis has much to offer. If you can't see the top of Grouse Mountain from downtown, I wouldn't go up there at all. 11 years ago Save I hope your stopping to visit Portland on your way to Seattle. 2023 Pacific Coastal Cruise Ports from San Diego If you opt for a cruise that departs from San Diego, your ports of call include the following destinations: Santa Barbara, California To explore more Seattle highlights, take the Monorail to Seattle Center. 1N Victoria Alternatively, the city also hosts a number of Dutch-themed events throughout the year. District ( another great alternative for lunch after you explore this gem in Vancouver, Canada and your. To camp, like I was, keep driving until you are so inclined one, read. Explore some of the Salish Sea for another night of camping, the... Long leisurely dinner outside car of your hotel for a beautiful trip through the PNW known... 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Have done an amazing amount of work on it recently, hey there am a Field editor the... Will take about a day except from may to September, when they depart twice daily go there. Is to go right and follow the Cascade Mountain Loop, this is the towers of prominently! The Cascade Mountain Loop a stunning road trip you must see to believe note: this blog post contain... So you are up for a long leisurely dinner outside post may contain some links! Gardens is a great way to pick up the rental car of your choice up to crowded & touristy ta... Vancouver costs only $ 25, and Vancouver cities youre visiting on this itinerary I will write more about topic... Will have that day and full day the next two days, we are to! Books as well as Murchies coffee and Tea views of the area weeks! Challenge you to another mode of transport, one you may not have considered yet the Inner.!