Seattle is a really nice city to visit and many of its must-see attractions are located within walking distance of each other. It’s also popular cruise port, especially for cruises to Alaska and adding a pre- or post-cruise stay will be well worth it.
The first time we visited Seattle was back in ’99. We did it as a day trip from Vancouver and spent the day exploring the area around Pike Place Market and Pioneer Square. We also had time to take the Underground Tour and see what lies below the current city. Our tour guide was quite entertaining and took us through the subterranean streets of Seattle. The stories were pretty funny, and we enjoyed the tour.
More recently we were back in Seattle for our Alaskan cruise. We arrived a day prior to sailing and we stayed an extra day after the cruise. We made the most of our time in Seattle and visited interesting attractions. Our favorites places were the Museum of Pop Culture and the Chihuly Gardens and Glass. Nearby you’ll see the Space Needle, a must-do in Seattle.
Places to see in Seattle
Pioneer Square
This is the Historic Seattle and a trendy area with coffee shop, bars and art galleries. It’s also where you’ll find the entrance to the Underground Tour and find other tourist attractions.
Pike Place Market
In this public market there are lots of shops and food venues to choose from and the most famous coffee shop is without a doubt the original Starbucks. Visitors also come to see the fish being thrown around at the fish market. Make sure to get out of the way!
Waterfront
This is a nice place to take a stroll, buy souvenirs and find a place to eat. We had dinner at the Crab Pot and our meal was served directly on a plastic tablecloth. No plates.
Seattle Aquarium
The exhibits are well done and interesting and worth your time. This is a must if you have kids.
Space Needle
From the top of this 605 feet tall tower you can enjoy a 360° view of the city.
Museum of Pop Culture
Formerly called the EMP Museum, the Museum of Pop Culture is a must-visit for all music lover and movie enthusiasms. There are great exhibits with interactive installations. For us, the Jimmy Hendrix, the guitar gallery and the horror movie exhibits were some of the highlights. We could have stayed there for hours but our time was running short…
Chihuly Garden and Glass
This glass museum is stunning and showcases Dale Chihuly large, colorful glass sculptures. The exhibits are exquisite. Do not miss this, there’s lots to see inside and outside.
Sky View Observatory – Columbia Center
This observatory is higher than the Space Needle and lest crowded. However, you’ll enjoy the views from behind a window.
Conclusion
For sure, there are many other places to visit in and around Seattle, but these attractions are all easily accessible and within waking distance of the cruise port terminal.
From Vancouver it was a lot of driving for one day (2 ½ hour drive each way with a border crossing) but doable with an early start. However, I would really suggest that you plan to stay at least 3 or 4 days. This would give you ample time to enjoy what Seattle as to offer. You could also take a day trip Mount Rainier National Park.
Related Posts: