Many Alaskan cruises start or end in Seattle. The city has much more to offer than just a great cup of coffee. Here is a list of fun activities to explore while in Seattle before or after your cruise!
Pike Place Market
This is one of the most popular tourist stops in the city. It is an iconic location that is a must-see, but keep in mind that nearly everyone feels that way. That means there is almost always a crowd. In the summer months typical for the Alaskan cruise season, the market area can be hot and crowded. My advice is to do your research in advance to determine which shops you want to visit inside the market. The market is very large with multiple levels and many vendors. It can be overwhelming if you do not go in with a plan.
There is much to see and do at the market. There are gorgeous flowers around every corner at Pike Place!
Fresh fruit and fish are also abundant. Some vendors will even throw fish as part of the tourist attraction of Pike Place. If you are hoping to participate in a fish toss, try to avoid peak times when there is a large crowd.
There are many great places to eat inside the market. It is a good idea to do research before you go to identify your top three restaurants of choice so you can keep an eye out for them while you make your way through the market. Some restaurants offer seating, while other vendors offer grab and go options.
Additional popular stops at Pike Place Market include the oldest Starbucks and the Gum Wall. There is much to see and do in and around the market.
Before you leave, make sure to find the viewing deck. It is a great place to catch a breeze, take some photos, and take in a view of the water and the Seattle Great Wheel. It is also great place to grab a spot to eat all your goodies you found inside Pike Place!
Chihuly Garden & Glass
Chihuly Garden & Glass is the number one must-do activity in Seattle. It is a stunning display of art with many intricate, delicate pieces. It’s a combination indoor/outdoor exhibit. There is also a looping video that explains how the glass is created and shows other past Chihuly exhibits. Allocate an hour and a half to two hours for this activity.
The indoor and outdoor displays are different but equally beautiful. There is a reason this is currently the number one activity to do in Seattle according to Trip Advisor.
As an added bonus, the museum is located next to the Space Needle – another iconic Seattle site!
Pier 57: The Seattle Great Wheel & Miner’s Landing
Pier 57 has several restaurant and activities from which to choose. The restaurants have great views of the water. Plan to go for dinner so you can enjoy a view of the sunset. There is also a vintage carousel nestled between the restaurants. Even if you don’t hop on for a ride, it is worth a quick visit.
The area is a mixture of fun tourist sites and activities.
There are many great Seattle hotels. I stayed at a renovated hotel which is now Hotel 1000, LXR Hotels & Resorts. It was a great location for our trip, and the hotel was lovely.
If you are visiting Seattle for the beginning of your cruise, the piers are not too far from the center of Seattle. The hotels and drivers are all very familiar with helping cruisers get to the proper piers for thecruise line. Be sure to ask for their assistance in getting where you need to be as they might know some local tips and tricks!
Gabi's Getaway Guides 