Unless you’re lucky enough to live near a cruise ship port, venturing on a cruise often means traveling to that terminal first. Fortunately, a lot of U.S. ports have an array of attractions that make the extra trip well worth it, offering plenty of things to do before a cruise—or after one!
For your next cruise getaway, why not plan to stay at the port a little longer to explore? We know you won’t mind extending your vacation, and with all of these amazing activities around the following ports, you’ll be glad you did! Check out some of our suggestions for where to play and stay before or after your upcoming cruise.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Who says you have to be on the cruise to start your shore excursions? Not us! If you’re boarding from NOLA, don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the colorful corners of this eccentric city. Just a few blocks from the Port of New Orleans, Mardi Gras World invites you behind the scenes of the float creation for the ever-popular parade. During your New Orleans day trip, join Taste of New Orleans Food Tours to sample the best of the local flavors, or catch some live music along Frenchmen Street.
Stay a while: The Omni Royal Orleans Hotel has a rooftop pool and on-site restaurant.
Baltimore, Maryland
Keep the vacation vibes going even after your journey is complete. Extend your trip with a few extra days in Baltimore. If you’re wondering what are some fun things to do near Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, you’re in for a treat. View the lay of the land from the Top of the World Observation Level at the World Trade Center, or cheer on the home team at the M&T Bank Stadium. If you don’t mind a short drive from the Port of Baltimore, venture over to the American Visionary Art Museum to see magnificent displays of self-taught works of art.
Stay a while: The Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore has a rooftop pool, spa services, and two on-site restaurants.
Seattle, Washington
Via Matt Hall/Flickr
You’ve been counting down the days until your cruise adventure, but you can’t help but get excited about exploring Seattle—and with good reason! Between eying the majestic Space Needle and browsing the stalls at the Pike Place Market, you’ll soon realize what all the Seattle hype is about. Traveling with your family in tow? Don’t miss the music and superhero exhibits at the Museum of Pop Culture. But if you only have time to see Seattle in a day, make your way to the entertainment in Seattle Center.
Stay a while: Within easy access of the Port of Seattle, Staypineapple, The Maxwell Hotel, Seattle Center offers a free area shuttle.
Galveston, Texas
Via IsleShire/Flickr
No matter if it’s pre- or post-cruise, carve out some time to get to know Galveston while you’re at the port. Make your way to Pier 21, within steps of the Port of Galveston, where you’ll find all sorts of waterfront entertainment, from the Texas Seaport Museum to harbor tours. Keep your eyes peeled for the 1877 Tall Ship Elissa while you’re at it. And don’t worry, you don’t need your grandkids around in order to visit the Galveston Island Pleasure Pier. Go on, take a spin on the Iron Shark Rollercoaster or make a splash on the Pirate’s Plunge!
Stay a while: Hotel Galvez & Spa, a Wyndham Grand Hotel features a swim-up bar and Sunday brunch.
Honolulu, Hawaii
You’re in for the ultimate getaway should you be so lucky as to extend your cruise vacation in Honolulu. Aside from the show-stopping beaches and ocean vistas, there’s plenty to enjoy on and off the sand near the Honolulu Cruise Port. Iolani Palace welcomes you to tour the royal grounds, while Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center is a great stop for when you’re traveling with your grandkids. Come evening, head to Paradise Cove Luau for a night filled with a traditional ceremony, food, and performances.
Stay a while: Put your feet up at Prince Waikiki, which has an on-site restaurant, pool, and outdoor bar.
Boston, Massachusetts
You’ve always dreamed of visiting Boston, and now’s your chance! Take your post-cruise glow out on the town, as you check off all the sites, from Boston Common to the Freedom Trail. Watch the reenactments at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum or hop on a Boston Duck Tours WWI-style amphibious landing vehicle to see the attractions from both land and sea. With so many things to do in Boston near Flynn Cruiseport, it’ll be easy to keep your vacation going even after your cruise!
Stay a while: Element Boston Seaport District has an indoor pool and complimentary breakfast.
New York City, New York
New York City has two cruise terminals, Manhattan and Brooklyn, and both of them place you near all the NYC action. The cruise port activities are endless here, because this is New York City after all! The Intrepid Sea, Air, & Space Museum is a stroll from the Manhattan terminal, while Prospect Park is a short drive from the Brooklyn terminal. Of course, all the major attractions are within reach, too, whether you want to catch a show on Broadway or take in the views from the Empire State Building. Purchase a MetroCard and explore the city from top to bottom.
Stay a while: Kimpton Ink48 Hotel pulls out all the stops with a full-service spa, on-site restaurant, and rooftop terrace.
Cape Canaveral, Florida
Your vacation starts as soon as you arrive in Port Canaveral, no matter if it’s before or after your cruise. First stop, discover the allure of the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse and the sweeping coastal views that come with it. Squeeze in some beach time at Cherie Down Park and watch the surfers in action. And whatever you do, don’t leave without visiting the nearby Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
Stay a while: Holiday Inn Club Vacations Canaveral Beach Resort has an outdoor pool, water slide, and cocktail lounge.
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