Here’s a post on a perfect Seattle day trip with your kiddos from reader contributor, Becca!
Not long ago, I learned the Seattle Ferry Service offered a tour of Lake Union. And, why was I excited to go? Besides my love of tours, (I’ll agree to go about anywhere), the “cruise” serves ice cream. I think the tour should be called the Sundae Ferry (get it?), but nevertheless I was eager to go.
We arrived at Lake Union and found free street parking across the street. It was easy to find the boat – just look for balloons. We arrived 30 minutes early because tickets can’t be purchased ahead of time; however I think we could’ve gotten there 5 minutes early and been ok. The captain greeted us on the dock and helped carry my double stroller on board. Nice guy!
The boat wasn’t what I pictured. I have been on the Argosy Christmas ferry and expected similar. This was an old, tiny boat. But very charming. The downstairs cabin had lots of cute painted tables and stools. Two tables were game boards. Stained glass windows lined the top. Outside the main level was a small walking area with two chairs. The top of the boat had enough seats for 35.
A few minutes after the boat left the dock, the ice cream counter was open for business. The prices for treats are $2-5. The big seller is the Root Beer Float with chocolate ice cream.
During the 45 minute ride, the captain talked about the history of the boats and homes around the lake. We saw Russian spy ships, fire boats, and old ferries to name a few. I loved the floating houses. We heard funny stories about the Sleepless in Seattle house, got close to Dale Chihuly’s house/studio and learned neat facts about Gasworks Park.
I would recommend this trip for any age. My crew consisted of a 3 year old and 16 month old. We mostly stayed in the cabin but did cruise the outside areas safely.
There are two bathrooms, but the captain did say he didn’t want diapers changed on board.
The tour runs every Sunday on the hour from 11am-5pm. The hours may change in the winter. There are also tours on Friday and Saturday in the summer months that run 60 minutes .
After your trip, take a few minutes to explore the park. We found a man renting toy wooden boats (small donation) that you can sail in a pond.
Becca Skramstad
Note from SFM: You can read more about pond boat sailing here! Be sure to check out the other low cost events and sails offered by the Center for Wooden Boats. You can learn more about the Seattle Ferry Service and their ice cream cruise here! This page has info on rates and the schedule.
Need more great day trip ideas? Keri has a round up of day trips and nearby road trips here! Would you like to write up a great outing for us? Email soundsfunmom@gmail.com
Speak Your Mind