Exploring Seattle: Activities Before or After Your Cruise

While an Alaskan cruise may be a highlight of your travel dreams, don’t forget that there are other exciting destinations on your journey. Choosing a cruise that leaves from Seattle allows you to enhance your trip by discovering this amazing city either before or after your sailing. By adding an extra day or two to your Alaskan cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to experience all the unique offerings of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.

Looking for some ideas? Here are a few suggestions to enhance your itinerary for an unforgettable vacation.

Retail Therapy in Seattle

If you find yourself in need of a windbreaker or simply want a unique memento from your cruise experience in Seattle, you’re in luck—this vibrant city is brimming with shopping opportunities:

• Downtown Seattle: The city center is also the shopping hub of Seattle. Explore the Pike Market area for fresh local produce and visit the nation’s oldest continuously operating farmers market. Don’t miss the chance to browse for antiques and art at the historic Pioneer Square.
• Ballard Avenue: This trendy shopping street is packed with distinctive boutiques. Whether you’re on the hunt for jewelry, home decor, or a stylish outfit, the unique offerings in this historic neighborhood are sure to impress.
• Belltown: Located just a short stroll from Pike Place Market, Belltown is Seattle’s most sought-after shopping area, boasting an array of chic eateries, trendy shops, and stunning waterfront views. Once you’ve finished shopping, unwind in one of the many renowned coffee spots in the vicinity.

Dining in Seattle

Seattle is a fantastic dining destination, particularly for seafood enthusiasts. Its close proximity to the ocean makes it a hotspot for fishermen bringing in fresh salmon, oysters, and an array of seafood delicacies. Additionally, the city’s rich Asian culture offers a wonderful opportunity to indulge in Japanese sushi, Vietnamese pho, and a delightful Chinese treat called a hum bow—savory curried beef or pork wrapped in a light pastry crust.

Absolutely, no trip to Seattle is complete without visiting one (or more!) of the city’s exceptional independent coffee shops. Known for introducing coffee culture to the globe, Seattle is home to numerous local roasters and cafes that satisfy both caffeine enthusiasts and leisurely sippers. Pop into a cozy neighborhood cafe to truly experience the Seattle lifestyle — you’ll find at least one in every area of the city.

Unsure where to begin your culinary adventure? Visit the Capitol Hill neighborhood for a diverse selection of fantastic restaurants that fit every budget. The International District offers a wide array of Asian cuisine, while the Queen Anne neighborhood is perfect for those seeking more upscale dining options.

Exploring Seattle

If you have a day or two to spend in Seattle, you'll have the opportunity to discover some of the local treasures that make this area unique. From iconic landmarks to vibrant art scenes, there's something here for everyone:

• The Space Needle: Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the Space Needle stands as the architectural symbol of the Pacific Northwest. Take the elevator to the top for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape.

• Local Aquarium: Discover the diverse marine life of Puget Sound while getting up close with puffins, sea otters, and a variety of vibrant fish. The local aquarium is dedicated to conserving natural resources while educating and entertaining visitors from around the globe.

• Great Ferris Wheel: Situated at the end of Pier 57, this towering Ferris wheel illuminates the night sky. Take a ride during the day to enjoy the city skyline, then return at night to experience its stunning nocturnal charm.

• Stunning Gardens: Seattle and its surroundings boast an abundance of beautiful botanical gardens. Thanks to ample rainfall and mild temperatures, the Pacific Northwest is ideal for a wide variety of plants to flourish. Wander through gardens dedicated to native species, Japanese designs, and even blown glass art.
• Excellent Local Museums: As a vibrant cultural hub, Seattle is home to several remarkable museums. Whether you're a fan of fine art, pop culture, history, or science, you're bound to find something that piques your interest in the city's diverse museum offerings.

Seattle ranks among the finest cities in the U.S., celebrated for its rich cultural diversity, eclectic food scene, and dynamic art community. Embracing all that this city has to offer will transform your visit into much more than just a starting point for your cruise. You can fully appreciate Seattle as a world-class destination. Consider extending your stay by a few days before or after your cruise to Alaska, ensuring you create lasting memories from your vacation.