to Alaska With Family

Rise and shine! It’s 4:30 a.m., and my alarm blares on my phone. Today, we start our Alaska family vacation. My 9-month-old son, Benson, still sleeps peacefully, unaware of the adventure ahead. Meanwhile, my wife, Dawn, and I rush to pack for our early morning flight from Kansas City.

After a hectic night of stuffing three large suitcases and two smaller ones, we crash at my parents’ house for the night. However, just as we think everything is ready, disaster strikes! One of our heavy suitcases bursts open, spilling clothes and toiletries everywhere. Without hesitation, Dawn dashes to the store and returns with a brand-new pink suitcase that perfectly matches her personality.

With our bags repacked and our van loaded, we squeeze in for the 40-minute drive to the airport. Construction at KCI Airport slows us down, but we arrive with plenty of time to spare. Then, just as we think we are in the clear, another setback—our flight is delayed due to a hydraulic pump malfunction.

Thankfully, our excitement for exploring Seattle before cruising makes the wait easier. Before we know it, our plane takes off!

Exploring Downtown Seattle

After landing, we check in at our downtown hotel and grab a quick meal at MOD Pizza, conveniently located across the street. Now full and ready for adventure, we head to Pike Place Market, one of Seattle’s most famous attractions.

As we walk the busy streets, we quickly notice the realities of city life—homelessness, open drug use, and people struggling with addiction. One moment, in particular, stands out.

A man cups a glass pipe in his hand, raising a middle finger as he stumbles into traffic. Car horns blare loudly as he brings the pipe to his lips and lights the substance inside. Slowly weaving through moving vehicles, he reaches a trash can outside Pike Place Market and begins digging for food.

At the fish market, we witness more drug use and signs of addiction. These moments leave a lasting impression, creating a stark contrast to the lively energy of Seattle’s most famous tourist spot.

Bringing a Taste of Seattle on Our Cruise

Despite these sobering experiences, we soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Pike Place Market. The fresh seafood, unique shops, and lively vendors make it a must-visit stop before cruising to Alaska.

One of my favorite discoveries? A couple of bottles of wine to enjoy during our cruise. Thankfully, passengers can bring one bottle per person, making this a perfect souvenir from our Seattle adventure.

Next Stop: Our Alaska Cruise!

With our pre-cruise Seattle experience behind us, we are now ready to set sail. Exploring Seattle before cruising has been an eye-opening adventure, but our journey is just beginning.

Except for the fresh seafood, the market reminded me a lot of the Kansas City River Market.

Stay tuned for more updates as we board our family cruise to Alaska! If you would like to read more about what prompted this experience, please read “The Story Behind the Cruise.” Also explore the whole story at Alaska 2022 Adventure.