Here is my "perfect day". It will be a busy day, but not busy enough that you don't have time to relax and see what the city really has to offer.

2 of my suggestions are guided and 3 are not. It's important to get the help of a local pro or two but also have the opportunity to explore for yourself. The pro guide will show you the highlights while your own exploration will lead to the richest experiences.

Number 1)

Downtown Seattle Food and Cultural Tour
http://www.savorseattletours.com/seattletour.php

You want to see downtown and you'll be hungry between 2 and 5. Guided by a local pro, you will experience the best food, wine and beer that the city has to offer. You will be downtown and walk on a guided tour of it. All-in-all this is an exceptional value and a great experience.

Number 2)

Pike Place Market
http://www.pikeplacemarket.org/

You can't say you've been to Seattle without spending some time at Pike Place. Right now, there is some heavy machinery in the area as they prepare for some renovations, but you'll still have a great time. You can explore one of the largest and best markets in the world. There are plenty of shops, streets, walkways and alleys to explore.

Specifically, spend some time at the Corner Market.

Number 3)

The Space Needle
http://www.spaceneedle.com/

I enjoy watching television and movies that feature places I've been. Seattle is home to many of these and the Space Needle is the attraction that identifies it. You'll get a birds eye view of the city and experience it from above.

Number 4)

Ride the Ducks
http://www.ridetheducksofseattle.com/

To compliment your birds eye view of the city, taking a tour in one of the infamous city ducks is a great way to experience the city. Driving on both land and in water, these "boat cars" and entertaining tour guides will take you on a unique tour of the city that really is unmatched.

This really is a great thing to do after visiting the space needle because you can contrast the two views and know geographically where you are.

Number 5)

This last one was tough. There really is a lot to do in Seattle.

Experience a Local Rock Show
http://www.seattleweekly.com/music//

Seattle is the birthplace of modern rock and fosters an incredible music scene. Even if you're not that "into" music, having the opportunity to see a show in the same venues where Hendrix, Nirvana, Perl Jam, Soundgarden, Allice in chains, etc have played is something to be experienced.

I would recommend the following order: Space Needle, Ride the Ducks, Pike Place, Food Tour, Rock Show.

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