Seattle is a city renowned for its captivating blend of natural beauty and urban vibrancy. With the iconic Space Needle piercing the skyline, the cityscape is adorned with lush greenery, including parks like Discovery Park and the enchanting Washington Park Arboretum. Boasting a thriving cultural scene, Seattle offers a rich tapestry of art, music, and culinary delights, making it a dynamic destination for visitors from around the globe. With so much to do within driving distance of the Seattle Cruise Port, you will not have to search far for the best attractions before your voyage. Explore Seattle on our Puget Sound & San Juan Islands and the Alaska Inside Passage cruise.
In Seattle, expect a temperate climate with a chance of rain throughout the year, particularly during the fall and winter months. Summers are pleasantly mild with occasional sunny days. As for the downtown experience, prepare for a vibrant urban landscape teeming with diverse culinary delights, eclectic shops, and iconic landmarks like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. Navigating downtown Seattle is made easy by its efficient public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and ferries, providing convenient access to popular sightseeing destinations such as the waterfront, museums, and the bustling Capitol Hill district. Whether strolling through historic streets or embarking on an adventure via public transit, Seattle offers a dynamic and memorable city experience for visitors.
Enjoy Seattle Sightseeing Outdoors
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, Seattle beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its diverse array of natural wonders and urban charms. Famous for its lush greenery, stunning mountain vistas, and picturesque waterways, the Emerald City boasts an unparalleled outdoor playground.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
20.3 miles/ 45 minute drive
Fly high on a thrilling hot air balloon adventure in Seattle, where you'll float high above the city's iconic skyline and scenic wonders. Feel the rush of excitement as you soar over landmarks like the Space Needle and glide gracefully over the sparkling waters of Puget Sound. With breathtaking views of lush forests, majestic mountains, and vibrant neighborhoods, a hot air balloon ride in Seattle promises unforgettable fun and excitement for all adventurers. See Seattle from a whole new perspective with this unique experience.
Pike Place Market
7.1 miles/ 15 minute drive
Pike Place Market is a staple of Seattle’s culinary history. Considered the “Soul of Seattle”, this market electrifies the city with over 220 independently owned shops and restaurants. As bustling crowds weave through its corridors, the market comes alive with vendors showcasing their wares and street performers captivating audiences. As one of the oldest and largest continuously operating public markets, this market is a true landmark.
Discovery Park
5 miles/ 12 minute drive
Nestled on the shores of Puget Sound, Discovery Park sprawls across 534 acres of pristine natural beauty, offering a tranquil retreat from the urban bustle. With rugged sea cliffs, lush forests, and sandy beaches, the park boasts diverse ecosystems that beckon visitors to explore its scenic trails and viewpoints. Whether wandering through meadows ablaze with wildflowers, birdwatching along the shoreline, or simply soaking in panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and the Seattle skyline, Discovery Park captivates all who venture within its serene confines.
Olympic Sculpture Park
6 miles/ 12 minute drive
Situated along Elliott Bay in Seattle, the Olympic Sculpture Park sprawls over nine acres, showcasing a stunning collection of contemporary sculptures and installations. Designed by distinguished architects and artists, the park seamlessly integrates art with its surroundings, offering visitors a unique sensory experience. As you wander its winding paths, you'll encounter iconic pieces like Alexander Calder's "Eagle" and Louise Bourgeois' "Father and Son," all against the backdrop of breathtaking views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
Best Indoor Attractions in Seattle
From world-class museums showcasing art, culture, and innovation to iconic landmarks steeped in history, the city offers an eclectic blend of experiences for all interests. Whether you're seeking cultural enrichment, architectural wonders, or simply a taste of local charm, downtown Seattle invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery.
Seattle Art Museum
7 miles/ 14 minutes drive
Located in downtown Seattle Art Museum (SAM) houses a diverse collection spanning centuries and continents within its striking, modernist building designed by architect Robert Venturi. Boasting over 25,000 artworks, SAM features masterpieces ranging from ancient Asian artifacts to contemporary American paintings, including notable works by artists such as Jaco Lawrence, Mark Rothko, and Georgia O'Keeffe. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details of Japanese screens, explore Indigenous art from the Pacific Northwest, and admire rotating exhibitions that showcase cutting-edge contemporary artists from around the world.
The Paramount Theatre
7 miles/ 18 minutes drive
The Paramount Theatre stands as a magnificent testament to the city's rich cultural heritage, its interior is adorned with intricate detailing and grand architecture reminiscent of a bygone era. Originally built in 1928, this historic venue has hosted countless iconic performances, from Broadway musicals to concerts by esteemed artists, captivating audiences with its majestic ambiance and impeccable acoustics. Today, the Paramount continues to be a beloved cornerstone of Seattle's arts scene, enchanting visitors with its timeless charm and providing unforgettable experiences for generations to come.
Space Needle
6 miles/ 13 minutes drive
An architectural marvel towering 605 feet above Seattle, this list would not be complete without this iconic landmark. Boasting a distinctive saucer-shaped observation deck offering 360-degree panoramic views of the cityscape, Puget Sound, and the majestic Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges. Its sleek design, conceived for the 1962 World's Fair, features a rotating glass floor at the observation level, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of hovering above the city as they gaze out at the breathtaking scenery below. Illuminated by thousands of LED lights, the Space Needle stands as an iconic symbol of Seattle's innovation and futuristic spirit, captivating millions of visitors each year with its awe-inspiring beauty and engineering prowess.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
6 miles/ 15 minutes drive
Located at the base of the Space Needle in Seattle, be treated to a showcase of mesmerizing glass artistry of renowned artist Dale Chihuly. The exhibit features a stunning array of his vibrant sculptures, ranging from towering installations to delicate glass flowers, displayed in both indoor galleries and a lush outdoor garden. Visitors are transported into a whimsical world of color and light as they wander through the immersive exhibits, marveling at the intricate details and mesmerizing forms of Chihuly's masterpieces.
Seattle Aquarium
6 miles/ 14 minutes drive
The Seattle Aquarium, located on Pier 59 along the waterfront, offers an enchanting underwater experience with its diverse marine life exhibits. Visitors can marvel at the mesmerizing jellyfish display, featuring species like the graceful moon jellies and the pulsating Pacific Sea nettles. In the "Window on Washington Waters" exhibit, guests can peer through acrylic tunnels surrounded by schools of fish, providing an immersive glimpse into the vibrant ecosystems of Puget Sound.
Whether you want to experience new heights or relish the vibrant art that gives this Pacific Northwestern city its personality, Seattle makes it easy for you to explore with its extensive public transportation and walkability. With our Pre-Cruise Package you can experience the city however you please, on your own time, and at your own pace before joining your fellow cruisers for your adventure. Stop in Seattle on one of our scenic itineraries around the San Juan Islands or through Alaska’s inside passageways, all with American Cruise Lines.
