If you’re a cruise visitor exploring Seattle for the first time, you may wonder how to maximize your short visit. Sure, there are countless things to see and do. However, with limited time and endless options, you’ll want to make informed choices about your tours and excursions.  

But don’t worry. This blog rounds up eight thrilling shore excursions that will make your stay in Seattle memorable. So, keep reading to discover the recommended activities that might make the Emerald City your favorite destination.

1. Seattle City Tour  

Most Seattle shore excursions kickoff with visits to the city’s main attractions, such as:  

• Space Needle  

This iconic landmark offers magnificent views of Seattle from its observation deck. It’s a must-visit destination that should be on every cruise visitor’s list.  

• Chihuly Garden and Glass   

This stunning museum features the works of renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. The beautiful artwork and gardens are not to be missed.  

• Puget Sound  

If you’re exploring the natural beauty of Seattle, a Puget Sound sightseeing cruise is ideal. You can sail through the shimmering waters, taking in breathtaking city skyline views. 

Don’t forget to watch for sea lions, seals, and maybe even some orcas if you’re lucky!  

• The Great Wheel  

For those seeking a unique perspective of Seattle, taking a ride on the Great Wheel is advisable. This giant Ferris wheel offers stunning panoramic city and waterfront views. Whether you ride during the day or at night, you’ll be treated to breathtaking sights that will leave you in awe.  

A Settle city tour is a great way to explore the city’s highlights. 

2. Seattle Underground Tour 

If you want to explore the city’s hidden gems, the Seattle Underground Tour is for you. The tour uncovers Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square’s underground passages.  

Discover Seattle’s fascinating history, from its rough beginnings to its rise to a major metropolis. The underground tunnels are a unique, well-preserved part of Seattle’s past. As you walk along the old streets, you’ll appreciate how Seattle has evolved. 

3. Mount St. Helens Tour 

Escape the urban jungle and venture outdoors on a Mount St. Helens Tour. You’ll travel through lush forests and valleys to reach the mountain, which erupted in 1980 and remains an active volcano.   

The tour offers stunning mountain views, including the eruption-created sediment dam and lake. Learn how the massive explosion changed the area’s geography and ruined mountainside villages. Indeed, a trip to Mount St. Helens is an unforgettable experience showing nature’s power. 

4. Wine Tasting in Woodinville 

For wine lovers, a trip to Woodinville is a must-do excursion. Washington’s best vineyards produce top-notch wines at dozens of wineries in the city. You’ll tour the wineries and taste Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Chardonnay. You might even meet the winemakers and hear their colorful tales.   

Aside from that, you can enjoy exploring the stunning countryside and scenic views. Imagine strolling through vineyards, sipping wines, and indulging in gourmet food pairings. 

Don’t forget to bring a few bottles of your favorite wines back home as a souvenir! 

5. Seattle Craft Brewery Tour 

If you’re a beer enthusiast, take advantage of the Seattle Craft Brewery Tour. The tour takes you through some of Seattle’s best local breweries. 

You’ll learn about the brewing process and sample various delicious craft beers, from IPAs to stouts. You can chat with the brewers about their brewing techniques and beer types. 

You may also try new and experimental beer styles, which are often only available locally. 

6. Seattle Food Tour 

Seattle is known for its culinary scene, and a food tour is a great way to experience the city’s unique flavors. You’ll sample a variety of Seattle’s cuisine, from fresh seafood to artisan coffee.  

Visualize being greeted with grilled salmon or Dungeness crabs paired with Gusto Crema. Even just the smell of these delicacies is sure to whet your appetite!

During the food tour, you’ll visit the famous Pike Place Market, where you can savor local delights like made-to-order donuts, creamy clam chowder, and shucked oysters. You’ll also try to taste the city’s renowned coffee at one of the many coffee shops that line the streets of Seattle. 

7. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour 

For an experience outside of Seattle, take a ferry ride to Victoria, British Columbia, and visit Butchart Gardens. The gardens are iconic, featuring a variety of flora, such as daisies or tulips, or fauna like sparrows or bees.  

The tour also takes you through Victoria’s historic streets to admire awe-inspiring architecture. Envision strolling through Fan Tan Alley or Fort Street, where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and local shops and restaurants.  

Once you arrive at Butchart Gardens, you’ll be mesmerized by the displays of flowers and well-kept landscapes. The gardens feature different sections, each with its unique theme and design. From rose gardens to Japanese gardens, there’s something to appeal to every visitor. 

8. Private Mount Rainier National Park Tour 

Mount Rainier is a majestic mountain that towers over Seattle. It provides some of the most breathtaking views in the country.  

Private tours take you through Mount Rainier National Park’s most breathtaking scenery. Waterfalls, glacial rivers, and lush valleys surround the mountain. The private tour offers a customized experience tailored to your interests and preferences. 

Unleashing the Wonders of Seattle 

Overall, whether you prefer nature, food, wine, or city landmarks, there’s plenty to do and see in Seattle. These eight shore excursions offer a variety of experiences that will make your visit to Seattle unforgettable.   

Remember to take in the sights and sounds of the city and appreciate everything Seattle has to offer. Have fun exploring Jet City’s diverse neighborhoods and eclectic attractions!