Discover Seattle’s Hidden History with the Underground Tour
Seattle is a city with many unique features and hidden gems, one of which is the Seattle Underground Tour. This tour takes you through the historic Pioneer Square neighborhood, where you’ll get to explore underground passageways that were once the main roads and storefronts of downtown Seattle.
The history behind this tour dates back to 1889 when a devastating fire burned down nearly all of downtown Seattle, destroying over 25 blocks of buildings. In response, city planners decided to rebuild the area on top of the existing street level rather than rebuilding at ground level. The new buildings were constructed with entrances on both levels – one for pedestrians at street level and another for wagons and horses below.
As time went by, businesses moved into these underground storefronts and pedestrian walkways became bustling sidewalks above them. Eventually, as new buildings were constructed at street level without including underground entrances, these subterranean areas fell into disuse until they were rediscovered in the 1960s.
Today’s version of the Seattle Underground Tour takes visitors through several blocks of these old passageways under Pioneer Square. You’ll see remnants of storefronts and signage from a bygone era while learning about life in early Seattle during your guided tour.
One highlight is Doc Maynard’s Public House located beneath Occidental Park. This bar was named after one of Seattle’s founding fathers who first settled here in 1852. The pub has been restored to its original condition complete with antique lighting fixtures and a beautiful mahogany bar that would have been used over a century ago.
Another stop along your journey will be an old bank vault door left from Prohibition days which still hangs open today revealing empty shelves where barrels containing illegal alcohol once sat quietly waiting for their owners’ return.
Throughout your tour guides will share stories about what life was like in early Seattle such as tales about “seamstresses” who operated out of brothels or ghost sightings reported by tour guides and visitors alike.
The Seattle Underground Tour is a unique way to get a glimpse into the city’s past while learning about its present. It’s an experience that is as entertaining as it is educational, making it perfect for both tourists and locals alike.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for something different to do next time you’re in Seattle, consider taking this tour. You’ll walk away with a greater appreciation for the city’s rich history while experiencing something truly unique that can’t be found anywhere else.