Why Experiencing Seattle is Essential Before Your Alaska Cruise

It’s vacation time, and you’re dreaming of an Alaska cruise. With breathtaking glaciers, scenic mountain trails, whale watching, and charming fishing villages to discover, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Set sail from Seattle and kick off your adventure in style before boarding the ship.

With its breathtaking landscapes, abundant outdoor activities, and vibrant urban attractions, it’s no surprise that the Emerald City is among the nation’s top travel spots. As travel enthusiasts, we’ve put together a list of reasons to spend a few days exploring

With its breathtaking landscapes, abundant outdoor activities, and vibrant urban attractions, it’s no surprise that the Emerald City is among the nation’s top travel spots. As travel enthusiasts, we’ve compiled a list of reasons to spend some time in Seattle. We handle the research, you pick the fun!

Seattle. We handle the research, you enjoy the fun!

Indulge in the Delights of the City’s Public Market

With countless attractions and activities, you could easily spend more than a day at the city’s public market. While browsing for handcrafted goods, be sure to watch the cheerful fishmongers as they toss fresh-caught salmon in a spectacular display that has entertained both locals and visitors for decades.

For more one-of-a-kind experiences, head to the Gum Wall in Post Alley or explore a museum dedicated to footwear located in the market’s Down Under level.

When you need a moment to relax, head to the outdoor plaza where you can enjoy the sounds of street performers while taking in the stunning views of Elliott Bay.

If you’re wondering what to eat in Seattle, the market has a delicious option for every craving. Treat yourself to a delectable wood-fired pizza, a plate of authentic Italian pasta, or a warm bowl of clam chowder. For dessert, enjoy chocolate-covered cherries, a mini cheesecake-on-a-stick, or a prosecco float made with sparkling Italian wine and sorbet.

Explore Local Zoos

If you’re seeking family-friendly activities in Seattle, a visit to the zoo is an excellent choice for everyone. Watch lions, giraffes, and hippos roam the African Savanna, or get up close with siamangs and orangutans.

While visiting the zoos, don’t miss the display of Alaskan wildlife, including brown bears, mountain goats, gray wolves, elk, and snowy owls.

Experience Seattle’s Stunning Views from the Space Needle

For breathtaking vistas of the city and waterfront, nothing compares to a trip to the Space Needle. Originally constructed for the 1962 World’s Fair, this iconic landmark now towers over 600 feet and draws millions of locals and tourists each year.

With a super-fast elevator ride taking just 43 seconds, you’ll reach three observation decks where you can enjoy views of Elliott Bay, the Cascade Mountains, and—on a clear day—Mount Rainier.

Explore a Museum or Aquarium

Seattle boasts several museums, including one dedicated to American pop culture, featuring exhibits on superheroes, horror films, rock legends, science fiction, and more. Some museums also screen films that provide an entertaining yet educational perspective on Seattle.

Not a fan of pop culture? Visit a Seattle museum showcasing a stunning indoor collection of vibrant glass sculptures set against a dark background. You’ll also find glass towers and spheres harmoniously blending with camellias, lilies, and dogwoods, creating a captivating contrast between nature and art.

If you’ve already explored the museums, dive into the wonders of the ocean at Seattle’s renowned Aquarium, where you can encounter a variety of Pacific Ocean creatures, from sea otters to sharks.

Wander Along The Waterfront

If you’re craving fresh lobster, grilled sea scallops, or oysters on the half shell, the Waterfront is your destination. Savor delicious meals, sip on wine, and soak in the stunning views of Elliott Bay. While you’re on the piers, don’t miss the chance to ride the Ferris wheel for a unique perspective of the waterfront.

You can also enjoy an immersive, cutting-edge theater that provides breathtaking aerial views of the entire state. This advanced theater promises an adventure like no other for a truly lifelike experience.

Additionally, you’ll discover plenty of gift shops and markets where you can find souvenirs to remember your trip to Seattle or to share with friends back home.

Prepare for Your Alaskan Adventure

Having explored all that Seattle has to offer—outdoor markets, zoos, museums, delectable restaurants, and breathtaking sea views—it's time to get ready for your Alaskan cruise. With glaciers to see, mountain trails to hike, whales to observe, and fishing villages to visit, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.

For an authentic Alaskan experience, be sure to book some thrilling shore excursions. You could explore glaciers via helicopter and try your hand at dog sledding in one amazing adventure, or choose from a variety of other activities. Enjoy a lumberjack show followed by a crab feast, navigate mountain trails on an ATV, or take a train tour through the Alaskan wilderness for a vacation to remember.