USA - Pacific Cruises 2023/2024

USA - Pacific Travel Guide

USA - Pacific Cruises Things To Do

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  Golden Gate Bridge

  The most iconic symbol of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge is a site you don't want to miss. This suspension bridge opened in 1937 and spans one mile connecting the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. When it opened, it was considered the tallest and longest suspension bridge in the world.  

  Best Time To Visit

  While the Bridge is open all year, it's best to visit in September or October. San Francisco is notorious for its fog, but conditions are clearer and temperatures are enjoyable during these months.  

   

  You Should Know

  On Thursdays and Sundays, free walking tours are offered thanks to the San Francisco City Guides. Both ends of the Bridge take you to parts of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, perfect for those interested in hiking. Scooters in power-on mode, skateboards, roller skates, pushcarts, drones, and non-service animals are not allowed on the bridge.
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  Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens

  Interested in nature? The Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens in Seattle is the place for you. You'll find seven acres of exotic plants and trees to explore, and it's immediately apparent why this site is so popular for summer concerts and weddings! The Gardens are named for Carl S. English, Jr., an Army veteran from the 1930s who is also known as one of the Northwest's top horticulturists.   

  You Should Know

  Guests are welcome to visit the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens free of charge, though donations are accepted and appreciated. You'll find the Gardens within the Ballard Locks. The park is considered incredibly charming and relaxing, so if you're in town for the day, consider having a picnic here!
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  Columbia River Maritime Museum

  In Astoria, Oregon, you'll find the Columbia River Maritime Museum. You can learn all about the legendary Columbia River Bar, which has long been considered one of the world's most dangerous passages. You'll get to discover the history of the River from the earliest days of dugout canoes all the way to today.  

  Best Time To Visit

  Since this is an indoor attraction, it's perfect for visits year-round. The museum is only closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Every other day of the year, it's open from 9:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Adult admission is just $14 with discounts for seniors and children.   

   

  You Should Know

  Exhibits are constantly rotating, but a full guide to the current exhibits of the time can be found on the organization's website. In addition to the traditional exhibits, you can explore the lightship Columbia and view a show in the 3D theater.
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  San Diego Zoo

  Animal lovers will adore the San Diego Zoo, home to more than 3,500 animal species. You can truly get up close and personal with the wildlife with Inside Look Tours and other popular animal experiences. If you're thinking about skipping this attraction because you've been to your local zoo before, think again!   

  You Should Know

  The Zoo is open 365 days a year, no matter the weather. A 1-day pass costs $60 for adults (12+) and $11 for children (3-11). Your ticket includes all shows, a Guided Bus Tour, the Kangaroo Express Bus, and the Skyfari Aerial Tram. Just a handful of the animals you might see include anacondas, leopards, black-headed weavers, camels, grizzly bears, and more. In addition, look out for plant species like bromeliads, gingers, native Hawaiian plants, and others.
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  La Brea Tar Pits

  The La Brea Tar Pits are the perfect destination to learn about the natural and cultural history of Los Angeles. Over 100 excavations have happened here since the early 1900s, and you can see many of the uncovered fossils in the on-site museum.   

  You Should Know

  Adult admission costs $13, and child admission costs $12. There are additional discounts for seniors and younger children. This location is home to several live theater shows and tours that give you an inside look at the history of the Tar Pits. Inside the museum, you can also find the Fossil Lab, an active paleontological lab where professionals examine fossils from around the area.
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  Space Needle

  There's no question that the Space Needle is one of Seattle's most iconic attractions. This 605-foot tall structure gives a stunning view of the city and was constructed starting in 1961. There's even an incredible rotating restaurant and lounge to provide the perfect view while you dine.  

  Best Time To Visit

  The Space Needle is open 365 days a year and is popular with tourists year-round, though the attraction is noticeably quieter first thing in the morning. The Needle opens at 10 a.m. Monday through Thursday and 9:30 a.m. on Friday and weekends.    

   

  You Should Know

  The elevators inside the Space Needle take guests to the top in an unbelievable 41 seconds, though they are slowed on particularly windy days. The tower was officially recognized as a city landmark on April 19, 1999. The Space Needle has 25 lightning rods and is designed to handle winds up to 200 miles per hour.
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  Alcatraz Island

  Just outside San Francisco, Alcatraz Island has housed some of the United States's most notorious criminals. The legendary prison has been home to famous names like Al "Scarface" Capone and the "Birdman" Robert Stroud, among others. It is currently one of the best resources for America's history of justice and incarceration.  

  Best Time To Visit

  If you want to avoid large crowds at Alcatraz, it's best to visit from January through March. If you're looking for good weather, however, visit in April through May or from September to October.  

   

  You Should Know

  Alcatraz Island was in operation as a federal prison from 1934 to 1963, but it played a role in the 19th century when it served as a military prison and harbor defense port. A major time in the shaping of Alcatraz was during the 1969 occupation of the island by the Indians of All Tribes. Alcatraz closed in 1963 because it was becoming too expensive to operate.
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  Pike Place Market

  Pike Place Market in Seattle is one of the oldest continuously operating farmers' markets in all of America. It first opened in August 1907 and today has more than 10 million annual visitors. It is considered the most popular tourist attraction in Seattle.  

  Best Time To Visit

  Pike Place Market recommends visiting in the morning before 12 noon to avoid the crowds. You'll also have less people to contend with if you visit in the late fall, winter, and early spring.  

   

  You Should Know

  Pike Place Market has several levels, each with its own unique shops, restaurants, and vendors. There are also eight buildings throughout the Market that house almost 500 residents. General Market hours are from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

USA - Pacific Cruise Packages

USA - Pacific Cruises Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a USA Pacific Ocean Cruise?

  A USA Pacific Ocean cruise typically takes guests throughout the West Coast of the U.S. Popular port cities include Seattle, Washington, and California locations like San Francisco or San Diego. More expansive cruises may also include Alaska or Vancouver, Canada. USA Pacific Ocean cruises usually last 7-8 days.

• What’s Included on a USA Pacific Ocean Cruise?

  On your USA Pacific Ocean cruise, your price will include all meals, your stateroom, and onboard entertainment while you're on the ship. Your cruise may also include guided tours and excursions in select port cities. Additionally, depending on the cruise line, you may be able to select an all-inclusive package that has air travel factored into your cost.

• What’s the Best Cruise for a USA Pacific Ocean Cruise?

  Several of the world's most popular cruise lines offer journeys to the USA Pacific. Examples include Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Lines, and even Disney Cruise Line. For a more boutique experience, smaller cruise lines like Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Holland America are all great options. 

• How Much Does a USA Pacific Ocean Cruise Cost?

  The cost of your USA Pacific Ocean cruise will largely depend on your cruise line of choice and the length of your cruise. Shorter 4- or 5-day cruises can cost around $300 per person, while week-long cruises may cost $700 per person or more. For a more exclusive cruise line, a week-long cruise can cost upwards of $1,000 per person. Keep in mind that these costs don't include your travel expenses for getting to and from your cruise's departure city.