Seattle City Full Day Tour

Our one-day Seattle City Tour includes a visit to the most scenic places, starting with:

The Underground Seattle City.

Roam through these undergrounds of Seattle with the trusted guidance of Hakuna Matata.Guided tours of Seattle’s underground offer visitors a chance to explore these historic spaces. Guides provide insights into the city’s early days, its architecture, and the engineering challenges faced during its reconstruction. Here’s a glimpse into its history and significance:

1. Origins: After the Great Seattle Fire of 1889 destroyed much of the city’s downtown area, city planners decided to rebuild using a higher street level to prevent flooding from the tides of Puget Sound and to improve sanitation. As a result, the old street level became underground.
2. Underground Passageways: The underground city consists of old storefronts, sidewalks, and building basements that were left intact below the new street level. These spaces were abandoned for decades but have since become a popular tourist attraction.
3. Historical Significance: The underground reflects Seattle’s resilience and adaptation to challenges such as fires and rapid urban growth. It’s a tangible link to the city’s past, showcasing its development from a small frontier town to a bustling metropolis.
4. Pioneer Square: The underground city is centered around Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square neighborhood, where many of the original buildings and passageways are located. This area is rich in Victorian-era architecture and historical landmarks.
5. 6. Architectural Features: Visitors can see remnants of the old cityscape, including brick arches, cobblestone streets, and the infrastructure that once supported Seattle’s early businesses and residences.
6. Cultural Heritage: Beyond its architectural and historical significance, the underground city of Seattle has cultural importance as a venue for events, art installations, and storytelling about the city’s past and present.

Exploring the underground city provides a unique perspective on Seattle’s development and offers a glimpse into a hidden world beneath the bustling streets of one of America’s most dynamic cities.

The Pike Market

Pike Place Market in Seattle is an iconic landmark renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and diverse offerings. Here’s a snapshot of what makes it special:

1. History: Established in 1907, Pike Place Market is one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers’ markets in the United States. It has a storied past, including its role in preserving local businesses and culture.
2. Market Layout: The market sprawls across several levels and is known for its maze-like alleys and stalls. It’s home to hundreds of vendors offering everything from fresh seafood and produce to unique crafts and handmade goods.
3. Fish-Throwing Tradition: One of the most famous attractions is the fish-throwing antics at Pike Place Fish Market. Fishmongers toss salmon and other seafood to each other and entertain the crowds, creating a lively and interactive experience.
4. Local Artisans and Crafts: The market supports a vibrant community of local artisans, showcasing their handmade jewelry, artworks, clothing, and other crafts. It’s a hub for creativity and innovation.
5. Food Scene: Beyond seafood, Pike Place Market boasts a diverse food scene. Visitors can enjoy gourmet restaurants, bakeries, cafes, and food stalls serving international cuisine alongside Pacific Northwest specialties.
6. The Gum Wall: A quirky and somewhat infamous attraction, the Gum Wall is a stretch of brick alleyway covered in layers of chewing gum. It’s both a testament to spontaneous art and a testament to the market’s unique character.
7. Views of Elliott Bay: Located on the Elliott Bay waterfront, Pike Place Market offers stunning views of the bay and the Olympic Mountains. It’s a picturesque setting that adds to its allure.
8. Cultural Hub: Pike Place Market is not just a place to shop and eat; it’s a cultural hub where street performers entertain visitors, local musicians showcase their talents, and events like festivals and art shows are held throughout the year.

The Great Wheel

Whether you’re a tourist exploring Seattle or a local looking for a unique perspective on the city, The Great Wheel offers a memorable experience with its unparalleled views and enjoyable ride. It’s a must-visit attraction that captures the essence of Seattle’s vibrant waterfront and skyline.

Here’s a closer look at what makes it a popular attraction:

1. Location and Views: Situated on Pier 57 along Alaskan Way, The Seattle Great Wheel provides panoramic views of Elliott Bay, the Seattle skyline, and the Olympic Mountains on clear days. It’s particularly scenic during sunset and at night when the city lights up.
2. Structure: Standing at 175 feet tall, The Great Wheel is one of the largest observation wheels on the West Coast of the United States. It features 42 climate-controlled gondolas, each capable of accommodating up to 8 passengers, ensuring a comfortable ride year-round.
3. History: The Great Wheel opened to the public in June 2012 and quickly became a beloved part of Seattle’s waterfront attractions. It has since become an iconic symbol of the city’s skyline.
4. Ride Experience: A ride on The Great Wheel offers approximately 12 to 15 minutes of leisurely rotation, providing ample time for passengers to enjoy the views and take photographs. The gondolas are spacious and enclosed, offering a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.
5. Accessibility: The Great Wheel is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that visitors of all abilities can enjoy the ride and the breathtaking views.
6. Adjacent Attractions: Located on Pier 57, The Great Wheel is surrounded by other attractions such as shops, restaurants, and activities, making it a central part of Seattle’s bustling waterfront entertainment district.
7. Events and Special Occasions: The Great Wheel occasionally hosts special events such as holiday-themed light displays and private rentals for parties and celebrations, adding to its appeal as a versatile destination.

The Chihuly Glass and Garden

Chihuly Garden and Glass is not just a museum but a testament to Dale Chihuly’s enduring impact on contemporary glass art. It offers a captivating journey through creativity, innovation, and the beauty of glass sculpture, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and tourists in Seattle.

 Here’s why it’s a captivating tourist destination:

1. Artistic Mastery: Dale Chihuly is celebrated worldwide for his innovative and vibrant glass sculptures. The museum showcases a stunning collection of his works, ranging from intricate chandeliers and towering sculptures to delicate glass flowers and abstract forms.
2. Exhibition Space: The museum’s exhibition space is designed to enhance the viewing experience of Chihuly’s artworks. It includes dramatic lighting and installations that complement the organic shapes and brilliant colors of the glass pieces.
3. Indoor Galleries: Visitors can explore indoor galleries filled with Chihuly’s most iconic series, including the Sea Form Pavilion, Persian Ceiling, and Ikebana and Float Boat installations. Each gallery offers a unique perspective on Chihuly’s creative process and artistic evolution.
4. Outdoor Garden: The museum’s outdoor garden is a highlight, featuring a breathtaking display of Chihuly’s sculptures amidst lush greenery and vibrant flowers. The glass pieces interact harmoniously with nature, creating a dynamic and immersive experience.
5. Glasshouse: At the heart of the museum is the Glasshouse, a monumental structure housing one of Chihuly’s largest suspended sculptures. The Glasshouse allows natural light to illuminate the artwork, creating a mesmerizing interplay of color and form.
6. Educational Programs: Chihuly Garden and Glass offers educational programs and tours that delve into the techniques and inspirations behind Chihuly’s work. These programs are designed for both adults and children, fostering a deeper appreciation for glass artistry.
7. Location: Situated near the Space Needle at Seattle Center, the museum is conveniently located amidst other cultural attractions, making it a focal point for visitors exploring the city’s arts and entertainment district.
8. Gift Shop and Café: The museum features a gift shop where visitors can purchase unique Chihuly-inspired artwork and souvenirs. There’s also a café offering refreshments and light meals, perfect for enjoying after exploring the exhibits.