Seattle: The Jewel of Pre- & Post-Cruise Ports

• Pike Place Market: One of Seattle’s most famous landmarks, Pike Place Market is a bustling hub of food, culture and history. Watch the famous fishmongers toss fresh seafood, sample artisanal cheese at Beecher’s and browse through local craft vendors. For a hidden gem, stroll through Post Alley to see the quirky and colorful Gum Wall.

• Space Needle & Chihuly Garden and Glass: For the city's best panoramic views, head to the top of the Space Needle, where you can see Mount Rainier, Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains on a clear day. Right next door, Chihuly Garden and Glass offers a stunning display of vibrant, hand-blown glass sculptures, contrasting with Seattle’s natural beauty.

• Discovery Park: Spanning 534 acres, Discovery Park is Seattle’s most significant green space, featuring scenic coastal trails, forests and meadows. The park offers sweeping views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains and the city skyline. A visit to the historic West Point Lighthouse is a highlight, especially during sunset.

Day trips

• Mount Rainier National Park is a nature lover’s paradise, offering hiking trails through alpine meadows, waterfalls and glaciers. A day trip allows for a scenic drive and short hikes to Paradise and Myrtle Falls highlights.

• Snoqualmie Falls is a 268-foot waterfall located about 45 minutes from downtown. Easily accessible, the viewing platforms provide incredible photo opportunities, and the nearby Salish Lodge offers a cozy retreat with an excellent restaurant.

Where to eat in Seattle

• Canlis: A Seattle dining institution, Canlis has been setting the standard for fine dining in the Pacific Northwest for over 70 years. The multi-course tasting menu changes seasonally, featuring locally sourced ingredients and impeccable service. The setting, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Lake Union, makes for an unforgettable dining experience.

• The Walrus and the Carpenter: For oyster lovers, The Walrus and the Carpenter is a must-visit. This charming, intimate seafood bar offers a selection of fresh oysters, small plates and an excellent wine list. The warm and lively atmosphere makes it a great place to stop early in the evening before exploring Ballard’s nightlife.

• Tilikum Place Café: This cozy café is known for its Dutch baby pancakes and serves a mix of European-inspired dishes with a local twist. The brunch menu is legendary, featuring seasonal ingredients and expertly brewed coffee. Arrive early, as this spot fills up quickly on weekends.

Where to drink in Seattle

• Canon: Ranked as one of the world’s best cocktail bars, Canon is an intimate, dimly lit space offering some of the most creative drinks in the city. The extensive menu includes rare spirits, handcrafted cocktails and vintage glassware, creating an unforgettable experience for cocktail connoisseurs.

• Bathtub Gin & Co.: This hidden speakeasy is tucked away in a converted boiler room, accessible through a discreet alley entrance. With an emphasis on gin-based cocktails, the bartenders here are known for their precision and creativity.

• Rob Roy: A sophisticated cocktail lounge with a vintage, mid-century feel, Rob Roy is a staple in Seattle’s cocktail scene. The bar specializes in classic cocktails with a refined twist, served in a warm and stylish setting. Their seasonal menu rotates frequently, ensuring fresh flavors and inventive combinations. The knowledgeable bartenders can also craft a custom drink based on your preferences.

Seattle’s famous coffee culture

Seattle is synonymous with coffee. As the birthplace of Starbucks and home to a thriving independent coffee scene, the city takes its coffee seriously. Whether you prefer a classic espresso or a meticulously crafted pour-over, there’s a café for every kind of coffee lover.

• Storyville Coffee: A hidden gem tucked away near the iconic Pike Place Market, Storyville Coffee offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere with expertly brewed lattes and a commitment to ethically sourced beans. Their velvety mochas and perfectly balanced drip coffee make it a must-visit for those who want a peaceful break from the market’s bustle.

• Victrola Coffee Roasters: Victrola Coffee Roasters has been a staple in Seattle’s coffee scene since 2000, specializing in small-batch, single-origin coffee. The Capitol Hill location features an airy, vintage-inspired café where you can sip an espresso while watching expert roasters at work.

• Elm Coffee Roasters: Located in the heart of Pioneer Square, Elm Coffee Roasters is known for its smooth, balanced roasts and sleek, modern aesthetic. With an on-site roasting operation and a dedication to transparency, Elm offers an actual farm-to-cup experience.