How to Explore Seattle’s Underground History on a Walking Tour

Do you want to learn about Seattle’s rich history and explore its underground passageways at the same time? If so, the Seattle Underground Walking Tour is the perfect adventure for you! This guided tour takes you back in time, diving deep below the streets of Pioneer Square to reveal the city’s fascinating past. In this guide, we’ll give you all the information you need to plan your Seattle Underground Walking Tour.

Overview

The Seattle Underground Walking Tour is a guided tour that takes you below the streets of Pioneer Square into the underground passageways. Originally constructed in the 1890s, the passageways were once the main roadways and storefronts of the city. However, after a devastating fire in 1889, the city decided to raise the streets to avoid flooding during high tides. This left the underground passageways abandoned until they were rediscovered and opened to the public in the 1960s. During this tour, you’ll learn about Seattle’s founding and the tragedy that befell the city and its inhabitants, including the Seattle Fire. Your guide will share fascinating true stories that will transport you back in time, giving you a unique insight into Seattle’s history.

Experience

The Seattle Underground Walking Tour is a 90-minute guided tour that takes you through over four city blocks of historic Pioneer Square. You’ll explore three underground passageways while learning about Seattle’s history and the damage caused by the Seattle Fire. Your guide will take you on a journey back in time to the city’s early days, giving you insight into how Seattle was born and detailing the tragedies it suffered along the way. You’ll hear stories of infamous criminals, gold miners, and corrupt officials that played key roles in building Seattle’s history.

Highlights

During the Seattle Underground Walking Tour, you will:

1. Marvel at 1890’s architecture
2. Explore three underground passageways
3. Learn about the Seattle fire that destroyed the city

What’s Included

The Seattle Underground Walking Tour includes:

• A knowledgeable guide to lead you through the tour
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected at booking)

Please note that food and drinks are not included, so be sure to eat before your tour. Gratuities for the guide are also not included, but tips are always appreciated.

What to Bring

Here are a few things to keep in mind before embarking on the Seattle Underground Walking Tour:

• Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking for approximately 90 minutes.
• Dress for the weather, as the tour takes place rain or shine.
• People with mobility impairments may find the tour difficult due to the nature of the underground passageways.

Booking Your Tour

Ready to explore Seattle’s underground history? Book the Seattle Underground Walking Tour here: book the tour here. After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details you need for your tour, including the meeting point and time. Please be sure to arrive on time, as the tour departs promptly.

Final Thoughts

The Seattle Underground Walking Tour is an exciting, informative, and unique way to explore the history of Seattle. This guided tour takes you beneath the bustling streets of Pioneer Square, giving you an intimate look at Seattle’s past. With knowledgeable guides and immersive storytelling, the Seattle Underground Walking Tour is a must-do activity for any history buff or curious traveler visiting Seattle.

FAQ about Seattle: Everything You Need to Know

Whether you’re planning a trip to Seattle, moving to the city, or just curious about this beautiful Pacific Northwest destination, you’ll find answers to all your questions in this comprehensive FAQ.

General Information about Seattle

1. What is Seattle?

Seattle is a major city in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It is the largest city in the state of Washington and the 18th largest city in the country. Seattle is known for its skyline dominated by the iconic Space Needle, proximity to waterways such as Puget Sound and Lake Washington, and as the birthplace of major tech companies like Amazon and Microsoft.

2. What is the population of Seattle?

According to the United States Census Bureau, the estimated population of Seattle in 2021 is approximately 769,600 residents.

3. What kind of climate can I expect in Seattle?

Seattle has a temperate maritime climate with cool, wet winters and mild, dry summers. The city is known for its cloudy skies and rainy reputation, but it also experiences plenty of beautiful, sunny days throughout the year.

4. What is the time zone in Seattle?

Seattle is located in the Pacific Standard Time (PST) time zone, which is 8 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-8) during the winter months.

5. What is the currency used in Seattle?

The currency used in Seattle is the US Dollar (USD).

Getting to and Around Seattle

1. What is the best way to get to Seattle?

Seattle is serviced by Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), which is located approximately 20 miles south of downtown Seattle. You can also drive to Seattle from other cities in the Pacific Northwest, or take the Amtrak Cascades train, which runs between Eugene, Oregon and Vancouver, British Columbia.

2. What is the best way to get around Seattle?

Seattle has a variety of transportation options, including Metro buses, streetcars, light rail, ferries, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. You can also rent a car or explore the city on foot or by bike.

3. Is parking difficult in Seattle?

Parking in downtown Seattle can be difficult and expensive, particularly during peak hours. It’s recommended to use public transportation or rideshare services when possible.

4. Are there bike lanes in Seattle?

Seattle has an extensive network of bike lanes and bike-friendly roads, making it easy to explore the city on two wheels.

5. Can I take a ferry to Seattle?

Yes, Seattle is serviced by several ferry routes, including ferries to Victoria, British Columbia and the San Juan Islands.

Things to See and Do in Seattle

1. What are the top tourist attractions in Seattle?

Some of the top tourist attractions in Seattle include the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum, the Seattle Art Museum, and the Museum of Pop Culture.

2. Is there a beach in Seattle?

Yes, there are several beaches in and around Seattle, including Alki Beach and Golden Gardens Park.

3. What are some popular outdoor activities in Seattle?

Seattle is surrounded by water and mountains, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular outdoor activities in Seattle include hiking, biking, kayaking, and skiing.

4. What is the Seattle music scene like?

Seattle has a rich music history, particularly in the grunge and alternative rock genres. The city is home to legendary music venues like the Crocodile and the Showbox, and hosts several major music festivals throughout the year, including Bumbershoot and the Capitol Hill Block Party.

5. What is the food scene like in Seattle?

Seattle has a vibrant food scene, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative Pacific Northwest cuisine. Some popular Seattle dishes include Pike Place Chowder, Dungeness crab, and coffee from local roasters like Starbucks and Tully’s.

Living in Seattle

1. Is Seattle an expensive city to live in?

Yes, Seattle is considered one of the most expensive cities in the United States. The cost of living can be high, particularly in terms of housing and transportation.

2. What is the job market like in Seattle?

Seattle is home to several major tech companies, including Amazon and Microsoft, and has a thriving job market in industries like software development, engineering, and healthcare.

3. What are the best neighborhoods to live in Seattle?

Some of the most popular neighborhoods in Seattle include Capitol Hill, Queen Anne, Ballard, and Fremont.

4. What is the public education system like in Seattle?

Seattle Public Schools is the largest K-12 school district in the state of Washington. The district has a diverse student population and offers a variety of programs and services for students with different needs and abilities.

5. What is the healthcare system like in Seattle?

Seattle has a world-class healthcare system, with several major hospitals and medical centers, including the University of Washington Medical Center and Seattle Children’s Hospital.

Book Your Tour Now

Seattle is a diverse, vibrant city with a lot to offer residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re interested in exploring the great outdoors, immersing yourself in the local music and arts scene, or experiencing some of the best cuisine the Pacific Northwest has to offer, Seattle is a destination worth exploring.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Seattle

Seattle, nicknamed the Emerald City, is a vibrant and exciting destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. From iconic landmarks to trendy neighborhoods, Seattle has something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to Seattle, here are some must-see attractions and activities to add to your itinerary.

1. Visit the Space Needle

No trip to Seattle is complete without a visit to the iconic Space Needle. This 605-foot tower offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding Puget Sound. Take the elevator to the top, where you can enjoy 360-degree views from the observation deck. While you’re there, check out the rotating restaurant for a meal with a view.

2. Explore Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is a bustling marketplace that has been a Seattle institution since 1907. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh seafood to handmade crafts. Be sure to stop by the fish market, where fishmongers famously toss fish to one another. Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo with the famous Rachel the Piggy Bank outside the market.

3. Take a Tour of the Boeing Factory

Seattle is home to the Boeing Everett Factory, the largest building in the world by volume. Take a tour of the factory, where you’ll see how Boeing builds some of the world’s most advanced airplanes. The tour includes a walk on the factory floor and a visit to the Future of Flight Aviation Center.

4. Visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass

Located near the Space Needle, the Chihuly Garden and Glass is a museum dedicated to the glass artwork of Dale Chihuly. Walk through the galleries to see colorful sculptures and installations, then head outside to explore the garden, where the glasswork is integrated into the landscape.

5. Check Out Pioneer Square

Pioneer Square is Seattle’s oldest neighborhood, and it’s filled with history and character. Take a walking tour to learn about the area’s past, then explore the many art galleries, restaurants, and shops that now call Pioneer Square home. Don’t miss the chance to see the historic Pioneer Square pergola, which dates back to 1909.

6. Visit the Museum of Flight

Seattle has a rich aviation history, and the Museum of Flight is the perfect place to learn about it. The museum has over 175 aircraft on display, including military planes, commercial jets, and spacecraft. You can even climb aboard a Concorde supersonic jet or a Boeing 747.

7. Take a Ferry Ride

Seattle is surrounded by water, and taking a ferry ride is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Take a short ride to Bainbridge Island, where you can explore cute shops, galleries, and restaurants, or take a longer ride to the San Juan Islands to see whales and other wildlife.

8. Visit the Seattle Aquarium

Located on the waterfront, the Seattle Aquarium is home to a variety of marine life, including otters, seals, and sharks. Don’t miss the chance to see the giant Pacific octopus, one of the aquarium’s most popular residents. You can also take a behind-the-scenes tour to see how the aquarium cares for its animals.

9. Walk Along the Waterfront

Seattle’s waterfront is a scenic and lively area that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. See the ferries come and go, watch street performers or visit the Seattle Great Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel on the waterfront.

10. Visit the Fremont Troll

Located in the Fremont neighborhood, the Fremont Troll is a quirky and beloved Seattle landmark. This sculpture of a troll holding a real Volkswagen Beetle can be found under the Aurora Bridge. Snap a photo with the troll for a fun and memorable Seattle souvenir.

Book Your Tour Now

Seattle is a city filled with exciting attractions and activities. From visiting the iconic Space Needle to exploring peaceful Bainbridge Island, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to add these must-see attractions to your Seattle itinerary for an unforgettable trip.