Travelers on a Princess® Alaska cruise will have no shortage of unforgettable experiences, including witnessing towering glaciers and spotting wildlife like whales and soaring eagles. But the adventure doesn’t have to stop once your ship docks back in Seattle. This city offers an array of attractions and experiences as diverse as the people who call it home. 

Guests disembarking in Seattle can explore some of the city’s most well-known attractions with Princess’ curated Seattle excursions, including to the famous Space Needle and Pike Place Market. The Space Needle, a 520-foot architectural marvel, features a revolving restaurant and an observation deck that offers views of Mount Rainier, Elliot Bay and the Seattle skyline. Back on the ground, Pike Place Market buzzes with energy, where you might dodge a flying fish at the seafood stalls or find souvenirs like locally made jewelry or Beecher’s handmade cheese. 

Whether you’re catching your flight home, heading back to your hotel or taking in every last moment of your vacation, Seattle is the perfect way to round out your Alaska cruise experience. View Alaska cruises and then check out some of the famous landmarks and hidden gems as you make the most of one day in Seattle.

Top places to explore in one day in Seattle

What is the first thing you picture when you think of Seattle? For many, that’s towering landmarks like the Space Needle. If you can relate, you might be drawn to the city’s cutting-edge architecture. Or perhaps you’re more interested in the culinary delights and the rich history of this city. With just one day, these top attractions are a must-visit.

The Olympic Sculpture Park is a nine-acre space that seamlessly connects modern art with the landscape of the Pacific Northwest. Operated by the Seattle Art Museum, it features a collection of contemporary sculptures set against the views of Elliot Bay and the Olympic Mountains. 

As you wander the park’s zigzag paths, you’ll encounter works like Alexander Calder’s Eagle, a bright red structure that seems to soar against the skyline. You can also find Jaume Plensa’s Echo, a 46-foot-tall sculpture of a serene, elongated face that gazes over the bay. The shoreline is also home to a restored beach and tidal garden, designed to support native marine life like mussels, crabs and sea stars, and create a more sustainable waterfront.

If the open sea of your cruise experience wasn’t enough nature for you, Discovery Park is a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Spanning 534 acres in the Magnolia neighborhood, it’s the city’s largest green space. You’ll find diverse ecosystems like coastal bluffs, meadows, sandy beaches and lush forests. The 2.8-mile Loop Trail winds through these landscapes, leading to overlooks with views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains — perfect for capturing postcard-worthy photos to share with friends. 

A highlight of the park is the historic West Point Lighthouse, where you might sport seals, sea lions or even a bald eagle overhead. Relax with a leisurely stroll or a picnic while you soak in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest and momentarily forget you’re in the city.

Gas Works Park offers a quirky blend of history, art and recreation for an experience like no other. Located on the northern shore of Lake Union, this 19-acre park was once the site of a coal gasification plant. Today, the rusted remnants of the plant have been preserved and transformed into industrial art installations, making it one of the most distinctive parks in the city. 

The park’s grassy hills are a popular spot for picnics and lounging with friends, while the top of Kite Hill offers one of the best views of downtown Seattle and, you guessed it, kite flying! On sunny days, you’ll often see kayakers and paddleboarders navigating the lake, along with seaplanes taking off and landing.

Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood, known as the “Center of the Universe,” is home to one of the city’s quirkiest and most beloved landmarks: the Fremont Troll. This massive sculpture is located under the Aurora Bridge, and it depicts a troll clutching a real Volkswagen Beetle in its hand. Created in 1990 by a group of local artists, the troll has become a symbol of the neighborhood’s creative spirit. 

Visitors can pose for photos with the troll and admire its intricate details before exploring the surrounding area. You’ll find a variety of funky shops, local breweries and colorful street art that captures the whimsical identity of this part of Seattle.

Dive into the city’s fascinating history with the Underground Seattle Tour, a guided adventure through the subterranean passages beneath Pioneer Square. These tunnels are remnants of the city’s original streets, left behind after the Great Seattle Fire of 1889 when the city was rebuilt at a higher elevation to prevent flooding. 

On the tour, you can hear tales of Seattle’s early days, all while walking through preserved storefronts and passageways. This offbeat experience offers a deeper understanding of how Seattle rose from the ashes to become the bustling city it is today.

The Ballard Locks, officially known as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, are a fascinating feat of engineering that connect Puget Sound to Lake Union and Lake Washington. Here, visitors can watch boats of all sizes navigate the locks as they adjust to changes in water levels. The adjacent fish ladder, designed to help salmon migrate upstream, allows visitors to observe these incredible fish up close through underwater viewing windows. 

The surrounding Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden adds to the charm, offering a serene spot to relax and enjoy the lush greenery. The Ballard Locks are a favorite among locals and provide a glimpse into the region’s maritime culture.

Want to add a spooky twist to your vacation? The Haunted Seattle Ghost Tour takes you through the city’s most haunted spots, blending history with tales of paranormal activity. Led by entertaining guides, the tour covers locations like Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square and the Seattle Underground. Each location has its own eerie stories and legends that can add a touch of intrigue to the city, whether or not you’re a believer. 

One of the highlights is the story of the Butterworth Building, a former mortuary rumored to be one of the most haunted spots in the city. Guests often report mysterious cold spots, faint whispers and even sightings of shadowy figures. Another chilling tale revolves around the Pike Place Market, where spirits of former vendors are said to roam after hours.

Step back in time and embrace the nostalgia at the Seattle Pinball Museum, located in the heart of the Chinatown-International District. This interactive museum features over 50 fully playable pinball machines from the 1960s to the present day. Guests can enjoy unlimited play with their admission, making it a perfect stop for gamers and families alike. The museum also has a small snack bar where you can grab locally brewed beers or sodas while you play. 

The machines are arranged chronologically, so you can see how pinball has evolved over the decades — from the mechanical simplicity of early games to the vibrant lights and sounds of modern machines. Highlights include rare vintage machines like Humpty Dumpty (the first pinball machine to feature flippers) and themed favorites like Star Wars and Addams Family.

Located in Pike Place Market, Piroshky Piroshky is a family-owned bakery specializing in handcrafted Russian pastries. Since 1992, this local favorite has drawn crowds with its mouthwatering selection of sweet and savory piroshkies. The aroma of freshly baked dough greets visitors as they approach the storefront, often marked by a line of eager customers.

Favorites include the Beef & Cheese Piroshky, a flaky pastry stuffed with seasoned ground beef and gooey cheddar, and the Smoked Salmon Pate Piroshky, a nod to Seattle’s love of seafood. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, the Cinnamon Cardamom Braid is a must-try; it’s a warm, spiced treat perfect for pairing with coffee.

You can understand why Pike Place Market tops the list of what to do in Seattle for a day, since it is home to yet another incredible food spot: Beecher’s Handmade Cheese. This is a Seattle staple, known for its artisanal cheeses and rich, creamy mac and cheese. Guests can watch cheesemakers at work through large glass windows while sampling some of the freshest cheese in town.

Beecher’s flagship cheese, Flagship Reserve, is a standout — sharp, nutty and perfect for enjoying on its own or in their decadent mac and cheese.

For a sweet treat, head to Molly Moon’s Ice Cream, a local chain known for its inventive flavors and commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Each scoop is crafted with care, with a variety of combinations like:

• Honey Lavender
• Salted Caramel
• Melted Chocolate

Seasonal flavors rotate frequently, so there’s always something new to try. Vegan options, such as the Coconut Chunk or Strawberry Sorbet, ensure everyone can enjoy a delicious dessert. Stop by their Capitol Hill or Wallingford location to cool off and indulge in this quintessential Seattle experience.

Step away from the energy of Pike Place Market to find a hidden gem. Tucked away in Post Alley is The Pink Door, a restaurant that combines Italian-inspired cuisine with a theatrical atmosphere. Known for its fresh, seasonal menu, this eatery features dishes like Dungeness Crab Risotto, handmade pasta and perfectly grilled branzino. 

The Pink Door also hosts unique entertainment, including aerial performances and cabaret-style shows, which add a touch of magic to the dining experience. 

Seattle’s craft beer scene is thriving, and a visit to a local brewery is a great way to wind down after a day of sightseeing. Fremont Brewing, located in the Fremont neighborhood, is a local favorite that offers a wide selection of beers brewed with sustainability in mind. Try their signature Interurban IPA or the rich and chocolatey Dark Star Imperial Stout. Another standout is Optimism Brewing in Capitol Hill, a community-focused brewery with a spacious taproom and rotating beer lineup. 

For those looking to explore more, consider touring the Ballard Brewery District, home to a cluster of craft breweries within walking distance of each other. From crisp lagers to bold barrel-aged stouts, the district offers a little something for every beer enthusiast.

For a cozy breakfast or brunch before a day of exploring, Tilikum Place Café is a must-visit. Near the Seattle Center, this European-inspired café is famous for its Dutch pancakes, or pannekoeken. These thin, crepe-like pancakes are served in cast-iron skillets and come with a variety of sweet or savory toppings.

Favorites include the Apple & Ginger Pancake, with perfectly caramelized fruit and a hint of spice, and the Smoked Salmon Pancake, which combines the rich, smoky flavor of salmon with a creamy herb spread. If you’re dining with a group, their shareable pastries and coffee make for a delightful start to the day.

What to do if you have more time in Seattle

Seattle’s neighborhoods each have their own distinct vibe, offering a chance to experience the city like a local. Some great options to explore include:

• Ballard: This historic maritime neighborhood is perfect for a laid-back afternoon. Visit the Nordic Museum to learn about the area’s Scandinavian heritage. Ballard Avenue boasts an array of trendy boutiques and restaurants serving everything from fresh oysters to craft cocktails.
• Fremont: Fremont is a quirky, artsy enclave. In addition to the Fremont Troll, the area features cozy coffee spots and the year-round Fremont Sunday Market, where you’ll find vintage treasures, handmade crafts and global street food.
• Capitol Hill: For a blend of vibrant nightlife and cultural experiences, Capitol Hill delivers. By day, enjoy Volunteer Park or stop by Elliott Bay Book Company, a beloved independent bookstore. By night, explore the neighborhood’s lively bar and music scene.

The city serves as a gateway to some of the Pacific Northwest’s most stunning natural landscapes. For an outdoor adventure, consider these day trips:

• Mount Rainier National Park: Just a two-hour drive from the city, Mount Rainier’s towering peaks and lush forests make for a spectacular outing. Hike through wildflower-strewn meadows in Paradise, and take a leisurely drive to Sunrise for panoramic views of the state.
• Olympic National Park: Accessible via ferry and car, Olympic National Park offers diverse ecosystems, from rugged coastline to temperate rainforests. Explore Hurricane Ridge for mountain vistas, or stroll through the moss-draped trees of the Hoh Rain Forest.

A short 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Seattle, Bainbridge Island feels like a peaceful retreat from the city. The ferry ride itself offers serene views of Puget Sound and the Seattle skyline. Once on the island, visit the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, explore the shops and cafes in Winslow or rent a bike to get a little exercise while discovering the island’s beauty.

Located about 30 miles east of Seattle, Snoqualmie Falls is a breathtaking 268-foot waterfall surrounded by plants that are so green, it feels like a fairy world. The roaring sound of the falls creates a peaceful yet powerful ambiance, making it an ideal spot to unplug from worries. The viewing platform offers an easy-access vantage point for photos, while nearby hiking trails let you explore the area further. 

Pair your visit with a meal at The Attic at Salish Lodge, which overlooks the falls and serves Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine, such as cedar plank salmon and artisan flatbreads. For an extra special experience, stop by the lodge’s gift shop for handmade spa products featuring mineral salts sourced locally.

Consider joining a guided food tour if you really want to enjoy the culinary delights of Seattle. Options range from sampling gourmet chocolate and artisan cheese to visiting microbreweries and distilleries. Specialty tours, like a wine-tasting excursion in nearby Woodinville Wine Country or a coffee-focused tour of Seattle’s best roasters, offer unique perspectives on the city’s culinary culture.