Cruise Shore Excursions: Seattle

Seattle, Washington is one of the most preferred port terminals for Alaska and Pacific Northwest cruises. Seattle offers the best of both urban and outdoor experiences, and has been labeled as one of America’s favorite cities from Travelandleisure.com and CNN Headline News. Whether you want to explore urban parks or read a book at a coffee shop, Seattle has something for every traveler. Below are some themed itinerary options for those who have limited time in this one-of-a-kind city.

Best of Seattle
To catch the best of Seattle take jaunt along the waterfront and enjoy lunch at one of the many seafood restaurants. Head toward the Pike’s Place Market for a Starbuck’s latte and chitchat to the vendors. Head north on First Avenue to explore the Seattle Center to catch a glimpse at the panoramic view from the Space Needle.

Artsy Sites
Head to Pike’s Place Market to check out the local vendors and artwork. Head to Post Alley to snap a picture of the Market Theatre Gum Wall and proceed south to Pioneer Square. Located here are numerous local art galleries and Persian Rug shops. Head back toward the market region, look out for the Hammering Man, which is located near the Seattle Art Museum. Before entering the cruise ship, head back to Elliot Bay to take a stroll through Olympic Sculpture Park. Although it’s hard to fit everything in, you can also head to the Seattle Center to view the awe-inspiring Chihuly Glass Museum.

Gastronomy Tour
Seattle is full of delicious flavors and cuisine. Popular local chef, Tom Douglas, owns various restaurants throughout the city. For fresh, local seafood, hop on the water taxi, which is located at Pier 50, to West Seattle. Just off the dock is Salty’s, which is a divine local fish and seafood restaurant. Head back to Seattle for a cupcake and ice cream treat at Cupcake Royale. Their funky flavors will knock your socks off and end the day with a nice cup of coffee at “Local Color,” which is located in the heart of Pike’s Market. If you are looking for a snack, head to Beecher’s for a taste of their macaroni and cheese.

Aqua-Goers
Get ready for one wet-n-wild time in Seattle. Kayakers and SUPers can head to South Lake Union to rent from the Northwest Outdoor Center. There you can paddle around Lake Union and head toward Gas Works Park. If time prevails, head to West Seattle via the water taxi to join one of the many scuba trips that give the Puget Sound. While in West Seattle, walk the boardwalk at Alki Beach and choose one of the many diverse cuisines Alki has to offer.

Nature Lovers
Take a stroll around Elliot Bay and Olympic Sculpture Park. Take the Sky bridge to Third Avenue West. Walk up the hill and take a right on Republican Street. Follow Republican until you reached Seattle Center to enjoy the large urban green space or the Chihuly Glass Museum. Catch a cab to the Ballard neighborhood to visit the Locks or head toward the Botanical Garden and Golden Gardens Park. If you get hungry, stop at Ray’s Boathouse for the best salmon dinner in town.