Holiday Itinerary

A Holiday-Themed Itinerary for Your Seattle Southside Visit

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

If you're looking for fun, festive things to do during the holidays near Seattle, you're in the right place. Get holly and jolly with this two-day itinerary for a weekend vacay or staycay. Curl up by a fireplace, fill up on a comfort food, shop the latest trends and collectibles, and soak up the season. Read on to see what's in store, then browse hotels and plan your visit.

Day 1: Gifts, Games, and Gourmet Treats

Spend your first day in the center of Seattle Southside's shopping and dining district relishing the festive vibes and picking up all the presents you can carry.

Breakfast with a Side of Nostalgia

The holidays are all about unhurried quality time with people you love - preferably over a delicious meal. The Pancake Chef offers just that. This retro diner is as laid-back and welcoming as they come, with friendly waiters who keep the coffee refills flowing. The decor is practically unchanged since it was opened in the 1950s, so it may stir up some nostalgia if you have memories of going out to breakfast with your family growing up. Kids can sip hot chocolate while they decide what to order off the crowd-pleasing kids' menu.

Pro Tip: While this restaurant serves all the classic breakfast staples, don't skip over the specialties, such as the giant Dutch Babies or Swedish pancakes topped with cream and lingonberries - the perfect combination of tart and sweet.

Credit: Alabastro Photography

The Shopping Mall That Has it All

Need to do some last minute gift shopping? Just love window shopping and seeing all the festive displays during the holidays? Westfield Southcenter is full of holiday cheer in December. This massive indoor shopping center features more than 200 stores, so you can find something for everyone on your list. While there, get your professional Santa photos taken. (Check the mall's website ahead of time for special events like pet photos and sensory days). And if you need a pick-me-up like coffee, cocoa, or bubble tea while you're there, there are dozens of eateries inside, including Mochinut, which has new seasonal flavors every week. Want to catch a heartwarming matinee? There's even a movie theater on the top floor.

Read our Holiday Gift Guide for ideas.

A Quick Bowl of Comfort Food

You don't have to leave the mall for lunch, as there are many restaurants inside. For a quick, warming meal, head to Marugame Udon at Westfield Southcenter (accessible from the north parking lot). Based in Japan, this restaurant group serves authentic udon noodles made fresh right in the kitchen. Rich, savory broth and fresh noodles create the perfect winter meal, and the fact that you can see it all being prepared in front of you makes the experience more fun. Plus, you can be in and out in under an hour, and get a filling meal for less than $20.

Pictured: Tonkotsu udon at Marugame Udon in Tukwila.

Live it Up with Indoor Attractions

Got a family or crew to entertain? Or traveling as a couple and want to do something that will get you laughing and moving? Either way, there are many attractions right in the mall where you can play, compete, and create lifelong memories while you're at it. Go bowling or play arcades at Round1 Bowling & Arcade, solve puzzles together at The Escape Game, feel like you're in a classic TV game show at Great Big Game Show, or play video games in a whole new way (with your body as the controller!) at Immersive Gamebox. Just outside the mall are even more all-ages attractions to check out, including lots of places for gaming and arcades.

Pictured: You could easily spend hours at Round1 Bowling & Arcade, an all-ages venues in Tukwila.
Credit: Alabastro Photography

With Love, From Italy

Finally, enjoy a classic Italian dinner at Grazie Ristorante in Tukwila, a local favorite that's been serving authentic pasta and Italian entrees since 1988. The festive ambiance at this restaurant feels just right for the holiday season, especially if you treat your table to some selections off the dessert tray. The waiters actually come around to your table to show you all the options - an old-fashioned practice you don't see at many restaurants anymore. Choose from treats such as cannoli, tiramisu, and cheesecake. Bon appetit!

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Day 2: Local Favorites and Global Delights

On your second day in town, check out the waterfront and all the quaint local businesses nearby. Then, treat yourself to some international treats and a farm-to-table feast in a rustic lodge.

A Cup of Cheer

Start your second day with a hot chocolate or seasonal latte and a breakfast sandwich at Auntie Irene's. This cozy neighborhood spot in Des Moines always decorates for the holidays, making it a great place to get in the spirit of the season. Curl up in front of the fireplace with a book or journal, or catch up with your companions (you'll be among many friendly locals doing the same). If you have a small child, they can play in the little kids' corner, complete with toys and a small table.

Pictured: Auntie Irene's is the quintessential neighborhood spot, with a kid's corner and cozy, seasonal decor.

Fun in the Marina District

If weather permits, head down to Des Moines Beach Park and the marina next door for a seaside stroll. There's typically a tall Christmas tree at the marina and lots of fun public art to check out.

If you'd rather stay indoors, indoors, spend a day playing games at Waterland Arcade, where you can easily spends hours playing Pac-Man and other vintage games. There's a very reasonable flat fee for unlimited play, so you don't have to keep spending to hang out there. Admission is also discounted for kids.

Pro Tip: Keep your eyes open for merch to pick up as gifts, like vintage collectibles and T-Shirts at Waterland Arcade, and swag items at local cafes.

Global Flavors

Ever dreamed of jetting off to Mexico for the holiday season? Get a slice of Mexican culture without leaving Seattle Southside at several spots in the Global Dining District, a stretch of locally owned eateries along International Boulevard in SeaTac. Enjoy a hearty brunch or lunch at Taqueria Jacarandas (nothing says vacation like sharing a heaping plate of nachos or tacos). Then pick up boxes of fresh baked cookies and conchas (Mexican sweet bread) at Las Delicias Bakery, a multigenerational business specializing in traditional Mexican baked goods and custom, made-to-order cakes.

A Winter Wonderland in a Local Greenhouse

You might not think that a greenhouse would be a must-visit on your holiday weekend, but Zenith Holland Nursery & Gift is on the top of our list. In addition to Christmas trees, wreaths, and poinsettias, the shop stocks hundreds of tasteful, upscale gifts and decorations, including candles, kitchenware, ornaments, skincare, jewelry, and toys for children and pets. There's always a beautiful photo area where Santa periodically visits, and on select days, free hot beverages and treats. Check the business website for seasonal events and classes, but rest assured that visiting at any time will feel magical.

Seasonal Dinner in an Elegant Lodge

You can't find a better place for an elegant holiday meal than Copperleaf Restaurant. Located inside SeaTac's Cedarbrook Lodge, this farm-to-table restaurant rotates its menu every season, so you'll see special wintery menu items that showcase the Northwest's local produce along with traditional winter recipes. The dining area has a refined yet comfortable feel, with a giant fireplace and wood touches. Having dinner here will make for a luxurious end to your holiday getaway. For even more options, check out our Holiday Dining Guide for more restaurants offering special dinners.

Pro Tip: Before or after your meal, you may also want to book yourself a massage or mani-pedi at The Spa at Cedarbrook. Consider it a gift to yourself!

Even if you only do two or three of the activities above, you're sure to leave Seattle Southside feeling merry and bright. And if you need more personalized recommendations, check out our Microadventure Maximizer Tool to create endless custom itineraries before your visit. Planning is half the fun!

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FAQs for Holiday Shopping in Seattle

Q: What are some festive dining options in Seattle Southside for the holiday season?

A: Indulge in comfort food and holiday treats at Grazie Ristorante, warm up with delicious bowl of steaming hot ramen at Arashi Ramen, or fill up on chowder at Duke's Seafood.

Q: Where can I shop for holiday gifts and enjoy entertainment in Seattle Southside?

A: Explore the diverse offerings at Westfield Southcenter Mall, from boutique stores to big box retailers. Zenith Holland Nursery & Gift in Des Moines also features a large selection of thoughtfully curated gifts and decorations.

Q: What are some unique holiday activities to do in Seattle Southside?

A: Experience the wonder of flight at The Museum of Flight, enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment at Cedarbrook Lodge, and stroll along Des Moines Beach Park for breathtaking winter views.

Q: Are there any special dining experiences for celebrating the holidays in Seattle Southside?

A: Treat yourself to a farm-to-table feast at Copperleaf Restaurant in Cedarbrook Lodge, offering Northwest-inspired dishes in an elegant setting.

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