Discovering Seattle and It's Surrounds by Chris Trew

Discovering Seattle and It's Surrounds by Chris Trew

Seattle in the summer is a place where thunderclouds aren't supposed to gather, or so the locals say. As we sat on the tarmac for two hours while a thunderstorm rumbled over SeaTac Airport, I couldn't help but reflect on the irony. This emerald green city, surrounded by lush landscapes, was everything I expected - rain included, even if it's usually a light drizzle. And so began my week-long adventure through Seattle and its surrounds, a journey that revealed unexpected surprises, natural wonders, and hidden gems.

Seattle is more than just a stopover for those boarding a cruise to Alaska - although it's a prime hub for such voyages. My trip's goal was to discover the magic of the area and curate unforgettable pre- and post-cruise activities for travellers. And trust me, Seattle delivered in spades.

The Emerald City: Iconic Landmarks and Local Treasures

After an early start from our hotel, the Residence Inn Seattle Downtown, we took the iconic monorail into the heart of the city. Seattle's skyline is punctuated by the Space Needle, a futuristic relic from the 1962 World's Fair. It's as iconic as Grey's Anatomy's opening shots suggest. From the top, the 360-degree views are stunning, offering breathtaking panoramas of the city, Puget Sound, and Mount Rainier in the distance. Even now, I find myself visiting the webcam just to relive those vistas.

Right next door is Chihuly Gardens & Glass, a mesmerizing display of vibrant glass sculptures by local artist Dale Chihuly. Each installation is a burst of colour and creativity, providing an immersive experience of art and nature intertwining.

For those planning to explore Seattle pre- or post-cruise, these attractions are a must. The CityPASS offers access to these sites and more, saving travellers both time and money.

A Taste of Seattle's Rich Culture

Our first day didn't stop at the Space Needle. After lunch, we dove underground, literally - on the fascinating Underground Tour of Pioneer Square. It's a quirky, slightly eerie journey beneath Seattle's streets, revealing a hidden world that most visitors overlook.

Later, we took an Argosy Harbour Cruise to get a new perspective of Seattle from the waters of Puget Sound. The city's skyline, framed by the distant Cascade Mountains, looked even more enchanting from the bay.

After dinner, we wrapped up our first evening with a concert at T-Mobile Park, just a quick Uber from downtown. Seeing the Foo Fighters live in Seattle was an experience I won'y forget.

Pike Place Market: Foodie Heaven

No trip to Seattle is complete without visiting Pike Place Market, a 100-year-old institution brimming with energy, character, and of course, flying fish. We joined an early-bird food tour to avoid the crowds and savour the freshest bites. From Indi Chocolate to the famous smoked salmon at Pike Place Fish Market, every stop offered a taste of Seattle's unique culinary landscape.

Beyond Seattle: Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier

After our city adventures, we set off to explore the great outdoors. Our first stop was the Olympic Peninsula, where we ferried to Bainbridge Island before reaching Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the rugged cliffs of Hurricane Ridge to the serene beauty of Lake Quinault, the park offers endless trails and panoramic views that take your breath away. Although the accommodations here are rustic, they perfectly complement the wild surroundings.

Mount Rainier, however, stole the show. This towering, snow-capped volcano is the crown jewel of Washington State, and locals excitedly remark when “the mountain is out.” At over 14,000 feet, Mount Rainier's presence is felt everywhere, especially in its stunning subalpine meadows and forests teeming with wildlife.

Tacoma: A Hidden Gem on Puget Sound

Our adventure continued to Tacoma, just a 90-minute drive from Mount Rainier. We stayed at the Silver Cloud Point Ruston Waterfront, which boasts panoramic views of Puget Sound, the Olympics, and Cascade Mountains. Tacoma surprised me with its upscale dining, boutique shops, and scenic walking trails along the water, an unexpected urban gem that feels worlds away from bustling Seattle.

Wrapping Up: Seattle Southside and Hidden Treasures

We spent our final night near the airport on Seattle's Southside, a perfect spot for last-minute shopping or a visit to the fascinating Museum of Flight. For chocolate lovers, a behind-the-scenes tour at Seattle Chocolate, complete with tastings, is the ultimate treat.

Conclusion: More Than a Cruise Stop

Seattle and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of experiences that go far beyond being a gateway to Alaska cruises. From the iconic Space Needle to the natural wonders of Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier, there's something for every type of traveller. As a cruise travel specialist, I'm thrilled to have uncovered so many pre- and post-cruise activities that can turn any visit to Seattle into an unforgettable adventure. And yes, it may drizzle, but no one here seems to mind.

Whether you're setting sail to Alaska or simply exploring the Pacific Northwest, Seattle has a way of leaving its mark on you.

By Chris Trew