Explore Capitol Hill—A Perfect Day Trip

Capitol Hill Has Something for Everyone

Capitol Hill is one of Seattle’s most vibrant and eclectic neighborhoods, offering a rich mix of culture, history, and entertainment. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this Seattle gem has something for everyone: bustling streets, lush green spaces, amazing restaurants, and one of the city's most dynamic nightlife scenes. Ready to explore? Here’s your perfect day itinerary for Capitol Hill.

🏙️ Morning: Start with Coffee and a Stroll

8:00 AM - Morning Coffee at Victrola Coffee

Start your day with a rich cup of coffee at roaster Victrola Coffee on 15th Ave E or their Pike Street Café. With its cozy, inviting atmosphere and expertly crafted coffee, it’s the perfect spot to fuel up for the day ahead. Don't forget to grab a pastry from their bakery counter — they pair perfectly with your brew.

9:00 AM - Explore 15th Avenue East

After your coffee, take a leisurely stroll down 15th Avenue East — one of the most charming streets in Capitol Hill. This street is lined with boutique shops, local stores, and several quirky vintage shops. Whether you’re browsing for books, checking out unique home goods, or simply window shopping, 15th Avenue is perfect for a morning meander. If you’re in need of another pick-me-up, pop into Overcast Coffee for a second coffee fix. Work your way from north to south so you're close to our next destination!

🍴 Late Morning: Brunch and Shopping

10:00 AM – Grab Lunch at Dingfelder's

For a delicious and hearty lunch, head over to Dingfelder's Delicatessen. Known for their mouthwatering kosher sandwiches like corned beef, pastrami, and salami, this local favorite also offers a rotating soup menu. Be sure to try their matzo ball soup, affectionately called Grandma. Get your meal to go and catch and route number 10 north on 15th to Volunteer Park!

10:30 AM - Explore Volunteer Park

After a short bus ride or a 20-minute walk, arrive at Volunteer Park, one of Seattle's most iconic green spaces. Wander through its beautifully landscaped gardens, take in the scenery, and visit the Volunteer Park Conservatory. Don’t miss the Water Tower for panoramic views of the city and Mount Rainier on clear days.

🌳Afternoon: Culture and Outdoor Fun

Noon - Lunch at SAAM

Relax with your Dingfelder's sandwich in front of the "Black Sun" statue, a renowned work by Isamu Noguchi. After enjoying the meal and the view of the Space Needle, cross the street to visit the Seattle Asian Art Museum. Pass the camels to enter this recently renovated museum. It houses over 2,000 works of Asian art from across the centuries. Whether you’re into ancient Chinese ceramics or contemporary Japanese prints, there’s something for every art enthusiast.

1:30 Homage to Bruce Lee

Take a short detour to Lake View Cemetery to visit the graves of Bruce Lee and Brandon Lee. This serene spot is located just north of Volunteer Park.

Exit Volunteer Park to 15th and turn left (north). Enter the cemetery, walking straight up the hill on the grass. At the top of the hill, there is a path and a flagpole. Turn around to face Lake Washington to the east. You should see coral-colored and black gravestones. These are Bruce Lee's and Brandon Lee's graves.

Special thanks to Twist Travel Magazine for the directions!

🌳Midday: Broadway—the Heart of Capitol Hill

2:30 - Broadway

Exit Lakeview Cemetery to the northwest and walk west to 10th Ave E, where you can catch the 49 bus south to Broadway. Get off at East Roy and Broadway, about 7 blocks. Walk a few steps more and you'll see the Loveless Building to the right, a quaint English-style apartment/retail building. Here you can grab a snack from the French Guys if you're feeling a bit hungry.

Make your way south, hitting the shops and sights that catch your fancy: comic books, the AIDS Memorial Pathway (AMP), and Cal Anderson Park among others.

4:00 The Pike-Pine Corridor

After you pass the main campus buildings of Seattle Central University, you'll see Broadway Performance Hall set back somewhat from the street. This was built from the old Broadway High School building. From this point to Madison is the Pike-Pine Corridor.

Continuing on your left, you'll see in front of Blick Art Materials the famous Jimi Hendrix statue named "The Electric Lady Studio Guitar," created by Daryl Smith.

Take the next left onto Pine and then a right onto 10th to find the Elliot Bay Book Company, a fixture of Seattle and a must stop for bibliophiles.

🍽️ Evening: Dinner and Drinks

5:30 PM - Dinner at Spinasse

For an unforgettable Italian dinner, head to Spinasse, one of Capitol Hill’s most beloved restaurants. Known for its handmade pastas and Northern Italian-inspired dishes, this intimate spot offers an elevated dining experience. The tajarin pasta is a local favorite, as are the other hearty, traditional dishes. Make sure to pair your meal with one of their excellent Italian wines.

7:00 PM - Sunset Drinks at the Hilltop

After dinner, enjoy a cocktail with a view at The Hilltop, a rooftop bar located atop the The Spheres at Amazon's campus. While technically just outside Capitol Hill, it’s an easy stroll, and the view of the city skyline at sunset is spectacular. Sip on a craft cocktail and enjoy the panoramic views of downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, and Mount Rainier.

🌙 Night: Capitol Hill's Legendary Nightlife

9:00 PM - Experience Capitol Hill’s Nightlife

Capitol Hill comes alive at night, with numerous bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. If you’re into dancing, check out The Unicorn/Narwhal, a quirky bar with carnival games, colorful decor, and fun cocktails. For live music, head to Neumos or The Crocodile, two of the best music venues in Seattle, where you can catch up-and-coming bands and local favorites.

11:00 PM - Late-Night Snack at Nacho Borracho

For festive bite to complete the day, head to Nacho Borracho. This lively, colorful Mexican joint serves up killer late-night snacks like loaded nachos, street tacos, and burritos. It’s a great option for those craving a bite that’s both flavorful and satisfying, and it has a fun, energetic vibe that fits with Capitol Hill’s nighttime energy.

🌆 Capitol Hill: A Neighborhood that Has It All

From its historic parks and cutting-edge art galleries to its buzzing nightlife and unique culinary scene, Capitol Hill is a neighborhood that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re into culture, shopping, food, or fun, you’ll never run out of things to do in this Seattle hotspot.

Ready to make Capitol Hill your next home? Check out our latest listings and explore the best homes this iconic neighborhood has to offer.

About the Author

Ben