A Cozy Winter Day in Seattle: Exploring Food, Art, and More!
- thriftedtravels
- Nov 9, 2024
- 3 min read

Seattle in December has a cozy, festive feel, perfect for exploring the city's highlights in a day or two. Here's a quick read on how we spent our time and what we recommend for your visit!
On our way back from a Christmas trip to Leavenworth, we stopped for a quick overnight stay in Seattle, and I'm so glad we did! We checked into Hotel Five – A Staypineapple Hotel, where the customer service was excellent, and the rooms were incredibly cozy. We couldn't resist a quick evening outing for macarons and coffee at Lady Yum, just a block from the hotel. Their delicate, beautiful macarons and whimsical decor are worth the visit! You must try the mint and snowflake macarons!
Before heading to dinner, we took a stroll to see the Amazon Spheres, also known as the Biodomes, just a short walk from our hotel. The domes were beautifully lit up, with sparkling lights illuminating the plants and pathways inside, creating a magical atmosphere that made our evening in Seattle feel extra special.
Dinner was a real treat at Cinque Terre. Ristorante was an absolute delight, capturing the flavors of authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy, inviting space. We enjoyed fresh, handmade pasta paired with a glass of perfectly selected wine, bringing out the richness in each bite. The restaurant’s warm atmosphere and attention to detail made our meal feel special, and it was the perfect way to unwind after a long day. Cinque Terre is definitely a go-to spot for anyone craving Italian dishes that are both elegant and comforting!
The following day, we hopped on the metro downtown for breakfast at Oddfellows Cafe. This spot is such a gem! I ordered the eggs with spinach, and my daughter had French toast with a lovely latte and O.J. Across the street, we did a little shopping at Glossier for some beauty treats and then made a stop at Elliott Bay Book Company, where we could have spent hours browsing.

Next, we explored the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum. The glass sculptures were breathtaking, and we couldn't resist snapping a photo in front of the Space Needle! From there, we walked to Pike Place Market for a late lunch, strolled through, and grabbed another coffee before returning to the hotel to pack.
After relaxing, we took a taxi from the Pineapple Hotel to the Lakehouse in Bellevue (around a 30-minute ride) for a special Christmas dinner. We were excited to try their seasonal dishes, but unfortunately, the experience fell short. As someone on a vegetarian diet with a daughter who enjoys meat, we were both slightly disappointed by the meal. The appetizer, a bean-like soup, and the main dish lacked flavor and presentation, leaving us feeling it wasn't worth the price. One exception: the drinks were a highlight! Both the espresso martini and the cocktails we tried were expertly crafted and delicious, adding a fun twist to our evening.

Seattle in December was such a cozy, delightful experience—perfect for a quick day of exploring, great food, and unique finds! Check out my links for more info if you're planning a trip.

Plan Your Own Seattle Stop With These Recommendations!
Hotel Five - A Staypineapple Hotel: No affiliation staypineapple.com
Lady Yum: Macarons and more
Cinque Terre Ristorante: Fresh Italian cuisine
Oddfellows Cafe: Breakfast menu
Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum: Discover the art
Pike Place Market: Explore the market
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