Washington State’s largest city, Seattle is a melting pot of culture surrounded by a diverse landscape and the twinkling Pacific Ocean. Crowned as the coffee capital of the USA, this enticing downtown destination is the land of Starbucks, boasts a thriving music scene, plenty of shopping, and has a host of history and charm to discover at the peaceful waterfront. Since it’s a walking city, you’ll have no trouble exploring the spectacular landmarks and sights on offer here, plus you’re sure not to miss the famous Space Needle – an awe-inspiring structure hovering 605ft above the city, symbolising Seattle’s innovative spirit.
There’s a whole host of exciting things to explore whilst you’re here, whether you wander its urban downtown neighbourhood at your own leisure, or want to tick off the city’s best bits (a few of which we’ll feature below). With beautiful weather during the summer months, this region is a must if you want access to mountains, rainforests, deserts, thriving cities and the calming ocean – before you hit the water on your luxurious cruise, of course.
When is the best time to cruise from Seattle?
Cruise season from Seattle generally runs from early May to late September. Summer is considered the best time to cruise from Seattle to Alaska (which is the most popular place to cruise from the US city), with July and August attracting the most sailing enthusiasts, when the weather is at its most pleasant – sunny, warm and bright.
Which cruise lines sail from Seattle?
There’s a selection of different cruise lines that sail from Seattle, including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, NCL, Holland America and Carnival.
Where do cruises from Seattle go to?
Seattle serves as the ideal gateway to Alaska. A round-trip Alaska cruise will take seven days, in which time you’ll admire some of the world’s most awe-inspiring sights, including the Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier – a 600 ft tall and mile-wide active icecap!
What should you do whilst you’re in Seattle?
Whether you’re into history, art, coffee, shopping, music, or outdoor pursuits, you’ll never be bored when you visit this enchanting corner of the USA. In fact, there’s so much to do it can be difficult to know where to start, but we’ll give it a whirl.
You’ll find a thriving art scene here, with the city playing host to over 200 art galleries, five museums, and a collection of public art projects that dot the streets – all waiting to be admired. Chihuly Garden and Glass is one of the most famous exhibits, a spectacular studio showcasing the intricate elements of Dale Chihuly’s glass work. Similarly, Pioneer Square (Seattle’s oldest neighbourhood) is an arty corner of the city packed with bohemian boutiques, galleries, cafes and bookstores worth browsing.
Want to admire the city from above? The Space Needle is the city’s most famous landmark originally constructed in 1962, with an observation deck that serves up 360° views of the city, Puget Sound and the mountains. If you’re feeling brave, look down through the revolving glass floor!
All that exploring is thirsty work, which is why Pike Place should also be on your list. This famous market is full of action and holds the crown as one of the city’s famous and most-visited landmarks! There’s a host of tasty stalls and venues serving up delicious fare here, from sit down meals to grab-and-go grub – sure to satisfy any foodie!
Extend your stay?
Looking to admire even more rugged mountains and incredible landscapes? Why not take the iconic Empire Builder train to Chicago through the Rocky Mountains and add a stay in Chicago. This epic two-day trip provides stunning views of America’s varied landscapes. From bustling cities, the Great Plains, Rocky Mountains, Cascades, and even the forests of the Pacific Northwest.
I love the idea of exploring Seattle and I am sure my cousin (with whom I have been on many cruises before) will do also. However, as we are both in our eighties, I am wondering whether we would be able to walk around the city exploring (which is obviously going to be quite tiring!) and instead whether we could be taken on a coach trip to the most memorable places. Can you please let me know whether such tours are available, an idea of the approximate cost in dollars and where these tours leave from? Thanks.