Things To Do In Seattle Before A Cruise
Seattle offers more than just strong coffee, a temperate climate and fresh seafood. Its two downtown cruise terminals serve as the homeport for seven cruise lines and the embarkation site for more than 200
Alaska
and Pacific Northwest-bound cruises each year, but even cruisers know there’s more to Seattle than that.
Known as the Emerald City for its lush greenery and more than 6,000 acres of in-city parks, Seattle also offers sparkling gems of art, culture, history, dining and entertainment for those lucky enough to have set aside a day to explore the city before or after their cruise.
With three national parks , each just a two-hour drive from the city, a scenic day trip out of town is one highly recommended way to explore the region. But those who stay local will find that many of Seattle’s most impressive and worthwhile attractions are right downtown , making it easy to pack lots of local adventures into one day.
Whether it’s your first time in Seattle or you’re back for a return visit, we’ve put together a one-day itinerary that includes many must-see destinations, some insider tips and suggestions for staying caffeinated and fueled up during the day.
Tourist Attractions Won’t Drain All Your Time
Forget queuing up for towers, statues, cathedrals or museums it takes only a few minutes to get into the main attractions. The Space Needle’s observation deck has been renovated with floor-to-ceiling glass for 360-degree views and a world-first rotating glass floor. Nearby, the Chihuly Garden and Glass is a total surprise, containing eight galleries and a glasshouse showcasing the spectacular artwork of Dale Chihuly. MoPOP is a must for music lovers, with several exhibitions focused on Seattle natives such as Jimi Hendrix, Pearl Jam and Nirvana. This fun museum also has sections on science fiction, fantasy and video games.
Things To Keep In Mind
Although Seattle is geared toward welcoming visitors and has many hotel rooms to choose from, we recommend you make your reservations in advance, especially during the busy periods for cruises or during festivals when hotels might be booked up. This will help ensure you are able to get your preferred hotel and room type.
We also recommend you call the hotel you are interested in to check the availability of their Park & Cruise packages as there may be a limited number of rooms available with this offer and some hotels may only offer this option if you make the reservation directly with them.
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List Of Properties With Transportation
note : Rates listed are one-way fees and are subject to change without notice. Fees can be changed by the hotel and may change at any time. Please contact the hotel directly for latest shuttle information and hotel/cruise parking rates.
Prices are based on travel to Pier 91 Smith Cove cruise terminal and Bell Street Pier 66 in the downtown area.
Please contact us if any information is incorrect or not up-to-date.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we earn a small commission if you click through and make a reservation.
Hotels Near The Holland America Cruise Terminal In Seattle Washington
Stay the night in Seattle before heading on a cruise.
Holland America cruises originating in Seattle depart from the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91. Many cruises head north to Alaska from Seattle, but Holland America also offers extended cruises to Asia, Australia and Hawaii for up to 35 days. Pier 91 is located in the Magnolia neighborhood, a residential area northwest of downtown Seattle, and several hotels are available within two to three miles of the terminal.
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I Want To Come Early And Stay Late After My Cruise What Are Fun Things To Do And How Much Time Do I Need
Before and after your cruise is a great time explore the Pacific Northwest. Best things to do near the cruise terminals:
- Visit the Space Needle at Seattle Center
- Seattle Art Museum
Best things to do near Seattle Southside hotels:
Spend some time at the Museum of Flight, iFLY Indoor Skydiving, Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden, Des Moines Waterfront, Westfield Southcenter Mall, and/or watch the Seattle Seawolves, the championship MLR rugby team, play at Starfire Sports Stadium.
If you have more than one day, consider package deals such as the City Pass, which will allow you to see Seattle’s top attractions at a significant discounted price. Be sure to download the free Do More Save More Passport for discounts on area restaurants, attractions and shopping.
A day trip is a great option to explore Mount Rainier, the Hoh Rainforest, the San Juan Islands, Victoria, Canada via the Clipper, or Leavenworth. All of these sites are less than 3 hours away, and they each have their own breathtaking scenery and exciting adventures.
Staying In South Beach Before Your Cruise
When you picture Miami, then what comes to mind is likely South Beach. Famous for its party atmosphere and art deco architecture, the spot is like nowhere else in America.
South Beach is on the southern end of Miami Beach and sits about five miles from the port. Its about a 10-15 minute car ride to the ships.
Youll find lots of smaller independent hotels, most in the classic art deco style. South Beach also has lots of restaurants including many offering seating looking out on famous Ocean Drive.
Theres plenty of nightlife as well, but if youre not the type to party, dont worry. Many times out of the year , the party atmosphere isnt overwhelming and can be avoided. That said, for those that do want to enjoy themselves, its easy to find somewhere to drink, dance, and have a good time.
One spot that cant be missed is Lummus Park a large green area between Ocean Drive and the actual beach. Here is a great spot to people watch, especially in the evenings.
Of course, if you want to enjoy the beach, then this is definitely the area to stay. Miami Beach features beautiful sand, water, and people, all enjoying the natural beauty.
Hotels tend to be a little pricey, but with so many options, you should be able to find something in your budget. Be sure to check for resort fees, which can add $20-40 per night to your stay. As well, there are normally parking fees for your car.
Highly-Rated Hotels in South Beach
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Seattle Cruise: Where To Stay
- deep within the Eskimo lair
- Posts:
missydarlinThe waterfront Marriott is the closest, but really anywhere downtown would work.
- deep within the Eskimo lair
- Posts:
blue_dolphin^ on the recommendation for a downtown hotel. You can spend a little time Saturday AM wandering around Pike’s Place Market and then catch a cab to the cruise terminal.The Inn at the Market has a great location but there are lots of hotels in the area.Ooops – just realized you said “next Friday” so this is probably too late!
What Are The Best Hotels Around The Space Needle/seattle Center Lower Queen Anne
Hotels near the Seattle Center/Queen Anne, Space Needle and South Lake Union areas are more affordable. From here you can walk to downtown, or take the monorail from the Seattle Center.
1. Hyatt House Seattle Downtown
Hyatt House Seattle Downtown is one of the best places to stay if youre visiting the Space Needle its so close it is almost touching the iconic structure. Pier 91 is a little over 2 miles away and Pike Place Market is a 20-minute stroll. Its a hip and trendy hotel with 172 suite-style rooms all with plenty of room to spread out.
Rustle up a snack in the kitchenette or lounge on the sofa and watch a movie these facilities are in every room. The onsite H-Bar offers a full menu of drinks and the restaurant has plenty of tempting options. A gym is available along with a business center.
Why Stay Here
- Across the street from the Space Needle
- Free shuttle within 1 mile of the property
- 6 min from Seattle cruise port terminals
Cruise Expert Rating: 9/10
2. The Mediterranean Inn
The Mediterranean Inn has a pastel yellow façade that welcomes guests inside. The hotel is located around the corner from the International Fountain and the Space Needle. Pier 66 or Pier 91 are both a cheap taxi ride or shuttle away .
Why Stay Here
- $7.00/person shuttle service to Pier 66 and to Pier 91
- Good value for money
- Rooftop terrace with great views
Cruise Expert Rating: 9/10
3. Homewood Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown
Why Stay Here
Why Stay Here
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Other Considerations On Where To Stay
Part of where you stay before your cruise isnt just which area of Miami to sleep or being near the port. Many people look at the amenities offered by hotels. Most notably, this can include shuttles to the cruise port and parking packages.
Hotels With Cruise Port ShuttlesAs mentioned, Miami is built to cater to cruise passengers as the busiest port in the nation. And with so many hotels, they all compete for cruise business.
One way they do that is offering shuttles from the hotel to the cruise port. This way, you dont have to worry about how youre going to get to the ship. Simply wake up, head down, and the shuttle will take you to the terminal.
Some hotels offer a shuttle as a package, while others simply have it as a service for guests. Either way, selecting a hotel with a shuttle can be a nice bonus.
For your options, see our entire page of 25+ Miami hotels with cruise shuttles.
Hotels With Cruise ParkingDriving to Miami? If so, then youll need a place to park your car. The Port of Miami offers parking right on site, but it can be expensive. Rates can run into the hundreds of dollars for the convenience of leaving your car at the port.
As a service to win the business of cruise passengers, a number of hotels offer parking during your trip. Stay the night before you trip and your parking can be discounted or even free. If you plan on staying in a hotel anyway before you sail, this can save you a tremendous amount of money.
Discover All The Things To Do Before And After A Cruise From Seattle
Our waterfront hotel is the perfect jumping off point for those going cruising. Just a short distance to the cruise terminals, The Edgewater is your cruise hotel destination in Seattle. Within a short distance of The Edgewater Hotel are the two key piers for cruise departures in Seattle. In addition, were close to all the things to do before you cruise or when you return. Dont miss the Seattle waterfront experience!
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Residence Inn By Marriott Seattle University District
This four star contemporary Residence Inn by Marriot offers well-appointed guest rooms with flatscreen TV and Wi-Fi. Enjoy a free hot breakfast to set you up for the day when sightseeing or heading to the cruise port. Theres a fitness gym for a workout, business center and lobby bar.
- Address: 1815 Terry Ave, Seattle
- Distance from port: 1.5 miles
- Shuttle Service: No
The Inn At Queen Anne
Close to the Space Needle and Nordstrom, The Inn at Queen Anne is a good choice for the value-conscious traveler looking for a European styled hotel. This centrally located budget property has 69 rooms with kitchenettes. Rooms come with a pillow top bed and a 32-inch LED television with cable programming. Wireless internet access is complimentary.
Reviews are mixed with many noting that although this hotel is centrally located, some think it is a bit outdated and there is no elevator. According to the reviews, many people departing on a cruise stay here for one night. Both Pier 91 and Pier 66 are about 1.5 miles away. The front desk will set up travelers with a car service that provides transportation to either pier for $7. Room rates start at $69.
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Curative At The Washington State Convention Center
Address: 705 Pike ST, Seattle, WA 98101
Phone number for further information: 888-702-9042
Type of test: COVID-19 PCR Test
Self-collected swab test with 1-2 days turnaround after arrival at their labs . Starting June 17th, 2021 all tests will be conducted with shallow nasal swabs .
Online booking available one week out.
Where To Stay Before Or After A Seattle Cruise
If youre coming into the SeaTac airport late and not expecting to do much sightseeing around Seattle, staying near the airport is a good option, as it will be less expensive than staying downtown. The best hotel near SeaTac airport is Cedarbrook Lodge they have an incredible spa and award-winning farm-to-table restaurant. Other good options are the SeaTac Crowne Plaza and Hilton both offer cruise packages with complimentary shuttle service to the cruise terminals.
Staying in downtown Seattle will give you the best opportunity to see the city, and offers easy access to Seattles best attractions. Hotel rates are at their highest during cruise season, however, so dont expect to find many cheap options. Some hotels offer cruise packages that include transport to the terminal, but these are generally not big money-savers, as taxi or Uber fare to the pier is fairly inexpensive and Shuttle Express offers scheduled transport from many downtown hotels to the cruise terminals at a rate of just $12 per person.
If youre sailing on a Norwegian or Oceana cruise that departs from the Bell Street Terminal , The Edgewater and are both within a short walk of the pier.
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Carbon Health Downtown Seattle
Address: 220 6th Ave N, Seattle WA 98109
This is located in the South Lake Union area of downtown Seattle, close to Seattle Center where the Space Needle and other popular attractions are located. This site is geared specifically for travel clearance. Cost is $165 . Open 7 days a week from 9am-7pm. Book an appointment online.
Phone number for further information: 350-7345
What to Expect at a Carbon Health COVID-19 Travel Clearance Testing Site
- Our clinics may not look like your average doctors office, but they function like one. At this location, we offer COVID-19 travel clearance exams for adults and children over 3 months old.
- During your visit, youll receive a COVID-19 test from a Carbon Health provider. This test will determine if you are currently infected with COVID-19.
- Your COVID-19 test results will be available within 3 hours same day OR by 2pm the next day in your Carbon Health account on the Carbon Health desktop or mobile site. Turnaround times and types of tests available vary by location. Carbon Health will not share any results from your visit directly with your travel carrier.
How Do I Find Seattle Express At The Cruise Terminals
Bell Street Pier / Pier 66: After leaving the Customs Inspection area, turn right and proceed south, past the bus area, to the sidewalk along the street. Look overhead for the Skybridge. The Coordinator will be located below the Skybridge, holding a bright ORANGE clipboard.
Smith Cove Cruise Terminal / Pier 91: As you leave the Customs Inspection area, proceed outside the terminal to Bus Lane R. Coordinator, Kathy, wearing a Seattle Express shirt, will be there to check you in.
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Free Luggage Transfer After The Cruise
While we’re on the subject of airports, it’s easy at the end of your cruise, too. Port of Seattle’s Port Valet is a luggage transfer program that delivers your luggage from the cruise terminal to the airport — for no extra charge. This means you can explore the city bag-free before your flight home or to your next US destination. Your luggage will be transferred to your airline and checked to your final destination. On top of that, you will receive your airline boarding pass so you can skip the whole check-in process at the airport and head straight to security to board the plane. It’s easily organised by filling out the form found in your cabin. Participating airlines include Delta, United, American, Southwest, JetBlue, Horizon and Alaska Airlines.
Faqs About Seattle Cruise Port
How far is the cruise port from downtown Seattle?
The Bell Street Pier 66 cruise terminal in Seattle is about one mile from downtown Seattle and 0.6 miles from Pike Place Market with its original Starbuck Coffee House and famous Fish Market. Smith Cove Pier 91 cruise terminal is 3.3 miles from downtown Seattle.
Whats the truly closest hotel to Seattle cruise port?
The Edgewater is the closest hotel to Pier 66 as it is built on Pier 67 right over the water. If you stay at the Edgewater, you will be able to see cruise ships up-close from your seaview guestroom window as they enter and leave the port. It doesnt get closer than that!
Whats the cheapest hotel near Seattle cruise port?
The cheapest hotel near Seattle cruise port is Hotel FIVE. Located at 2200 Fifth Ave, Seattle, it is 0.8 miles from the Bell Street Pier 66 cruise port and within walking distance of downtown attractions including Pacific Place shops and Pike Place Market. More cheap hotels in Seattle can be found near the SeaTac Airport.
Feel free to discuss this topic and all things cruise at our new boards. A place where readers can ask questions, help their fellow cruisers and general cruise discussions on cruise lines and ports.
And if you like, feel free to cast your vote in the 2021 Cruise Ship Awards covering a range of categories, including best cruise ship and best cruise line.
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