Whether you’re arriving a few days early for your Alaska cruise or sticking around after the ship returns, Seattle is one of those cities that’s impossible to fully experience in a single visit. The good news? We’ve done the hard work for you. Here are some of our favorite spots to eat, drink, explore, and soak up everything that makes Seattle special.
(Special thanks to Morgan, our guest blogger, who has lived in the Seattle area for 15 years)
Rooftop Cocktails and Summer Sunsets
Seattle absolutely shines during the summer, and rooftop bars are one of the best ways to enjoy those legendary long evenings.
If you’re staying at the Sheraton, Frolik Kitchen + Cocktails is an easy walk and a perfect place to kick off your trip. If you’re spending time around Pike Place Market, head to The Nest, where the waterfront views are worth every sip.
Seattle’s newest rooftop hotspot, Next Level Lounge above Fogo de Chão, goes all-in on luxury and views. Meanwhile, the rooftop at Populus Seattle combines sunshine, sustainability, and a distinctly Pacific Northwest vibe.
For waterfront views, don’t overlook the upper bar tucked behind The Fisherman’s Restaurant, offering one of the city’s hidden-gem perspectives. And if you’re looking for the ultimate happy hour experience, the restaurant at The Edgewater Hotel delivers some of the best views and atmosphere in Seattle.
A Tiki Adventure You’ll Never Forget
If you know Matt, you know tiki.
That’s why Inside Passage is an absolute must. Hidden behind another bar, this immersive tiki experience feels like stepping into another world. The drinks are fantastic, the décor is over-the-top in the best possible way, and you’ll probably find yourself talking about it long after your cruise ends.
Coffee: Because This Is Seattle
Yes, you should visit the original Starbucks location in Pike Place Market. It’s the only store still licensed to sell merchandise featuring the original mermaid logo (the one with the mer-nipples). But here’s a pro tip: grab your caffeine somewhere else before getting in that line.
For truly exceptional coffee, Seattle delivers.
According to Morgan, who has conducted extensive and “highly scientific” coffee research, Espresso Vivace in Capitol Hill serves the best coffee in Seattle. If you’re looking for something unique, order a Nico. If you want drip coffee, ask for an Americano.
Other favorites include Storyville Coffee, which consistently delivers, and Cherry Street Coffee House, an old-school Seattle institution.
The truth is, bad coffee doesn’t survive long in Seattle. Wander into almost any independent café and you’ll probably find something worth drinking.
Classic Seattle Experiences
You can’t visit Seattle without checking out the Space Needle. The observation experience has been redesigned in recent years and offers incredible views of the city, mountains, and water.
Right next door, Chihuly Garden and Glass showcases breathtaking glass artwork that has become one of Seattle’s most popular attractions.
For that iconic skyline photo, head to Kerry Park. Fair warning: it’s basically a postage stamp-sized park with limited parking, but the view is legendary.
The Seattle Great Wheel is absolutely worth riding, especially on a clear day.
Looking for something a little more quirky? Head to Fremont. Home of the famous Fremont Troll, this neighborhood is packed with local breweries, cideries, independent restaurants, and unexpected discoveries around nearly every corner.
And if karaoke is your thing, check the schedule at Ohana Belltown.
Where to Eat
Seattle’s food scene is phenomenal.
For incredible salmon, beautiful waterfront views, and a quintessential Seattle experience, Ivar’s Salmon House is hard to beat. Make reservations if possible.
For pure luxury, nothing tops Canlis. Reservations can be difficult to get, but if you can snag one, it’s an unforgettable dining experience.
Closer to the Sheraton, Alder & Ash offers a delicious menu and convenient location. Zig Zag Cafe remains one of Seattle’s beloved hidden gems, while Purple Café and Wine Bar delivers a sleek, modern atmosphere.
Sushi lovers should put Japonessa Sushi Cocina near the top of their list. In a city filled with excellent sushi, it still stands out.
Not every meal needs to be fancy, though. Wander through Pike Place Market and you’ll discover dozens of fantastic options. One of our favorites is Pike Place Bar & Grill, a dive bar with plenty of seating, a simple menu, and surprisingly few tourists who know it exists.
For sports fans, places like Buckley’s and Yard House make great game-day stops.
Great Drinks Beyond the Rooftops
Whiskey lovers should make a point of visiting Radiator Whiskey, which boasts an impressive selection.
If speakeasies are more your style, Bathtub Gin & Co. combines excellent cocktails with hidden-bar charm.
For a quieter moment, Unlisted near Seattle Center offers a chance to slow down and enjoy a drink and conversation. Further up Capitol Hill, cocktail enthusiasts will find legendary spots like Canon and Tavern Law.
Adventures Just Across the Water
One of the best things about Seattle is how easy it is to escape the city for a few hours.
Alki Beach in West Seattle feels like a laid-back beach town and is easily accessible via the Water Taxi, followed by a simple shuttle ride along the waterfront.
If you’re up for a ferry adventure, consider taking the ferry to Bremerton. The ride itself offers beautiful views of Puget Sound, and once you arrive you’ll find a relaxed waterfront atmosphere along with several military museums and local attractions.
Final Thoughts
Seattle rewards curiosity. Whether you’re sipping coffee in Capitol Hill, enjoying cocktails on a rooftop, hunting for hidden tiki bars, or catching ferry views across Puget Sound, the city offers far more than most visitors expect.
Give yourself a little extra time before or after your cruise. You’ll be glad you did.
