self guided walking tour seattle

The Perfect Self-Guided Walking Tour of Seattle

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Seattle, Washington. The heart of the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is a city renowned for grunge music, Starbucks Coffee, and rain. With an abundance of awesome sights, from the (kinda icky) Gum Wall at Pike Place Market to the towering Seattle Space Needle, the best way to admire all of these iconic landmarks is on a self-guided walking tour of Seattle !

As I was born and raised in Vancouver, I’ve frequently embarked on a weekend trip to Seattle. And in all my time there, I’ve never gotten bored of a few key areas: the Pike Place Historic District, Seattle Center, Pier 57… and with all these spots being within easy walking distance, the best way to visit them is by foot.

Needless to say, you’ll be visiting all of these top Seattle spots on this walking tour . So without further ado, let’s begin: this is my self-guided Seattle walking tour.

Before we dive into all the stops on our walking tour of Seattle, remember that you can make whatever changes and modifications you’d like. That’s the best thing about self-guided walking tours ; you have the ultimate freedom to decide where to go!

With that being said, according to Google Maps, this Seattle walking tour covers 1.9 miles (3.06 km) and will take 40 minutes to complete. However, it doesn’t include all the time (and steps) you’ll spend browsing around. So, I recommend taking a full day out of your itinerary to complete the tour.

Now, once again, let’s begin!

First, let’s start our free walking tour of Seattle at Pier 57.

Home of the Seattle Great Wheel and Miner’s Landing , Pier 57 is the perfect place to start our walking tour. Filled with unique retails shops, stunning ocean views, various family entertainment, and several popular restaurants including The Crab Pot and The Fisherman’s Restaurant, Pier 57 is a vibrant, fun-filled wonderland perfect for those traveling with family and friends.

Here are the three best things to do at Pier 57 in Seattle:

• The Seattle Great Wheel : Offering panoramic views overlooking Elliot Bay, the Seattle Great Wheel is a relatively new yet iconic Seattle landmark. Adult tickets cost $15, and it’s typically open from 11 am to 10 pm.
• Miner’s Landing Pier 57 : Housing the most popular restaurants in addition to Wings Over Washington, Salish Sea Tours, and the Carousel, Miner’s Landing is filled with entertainment (perfect for kids!).
• Seattle Aquarium : For those interested in the diverse sea life of the Puget Sound, the Seattle Aquarium is the best educational resource . Adult tickets cost anywhere from $24.95 to $34.95 (depending on the day you’re visiting), and the aquarium is open from 9:30 am to 6 pm.

• Pier 57 Address : 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101, United States

Next, walk along the waterfront to Pier 62. The first completed section of Waterfront Park, Pier 62 offers breathtaking views of the Puget Sound, as well as some delightful art installations and a floating dock. Admire the incredible ocean scenery before heading to our next stop: Pike Place!

• Address : 1951 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
• Time to Get Here : It’ll take 5 minutes to walk from Miner’s Landing Pier 57 to Pier 62.
• Hours : 6 am to 10 pm, open daily.
• Website : https://waterfrontparkseattle.org/pier-62/

Planning to visit the Canadian Rockies? If so, check out my 7-day Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary!

Pike Place Market

Next, it’s time to explore Pike Place Market. One of the most popular Seattle tourist attractions (and an essential stop on all walking tours of Seattle), Pike Place Public Market is my absolute favorite district in Seattle.

Historic and vibrant, Pike Place is filled with life. First opened in 1907, Pike Place remains one of the oldest farmer’s markets in the USA . From comic book stores, antique dealers, fresh fish and produce, artisan crafts, and more, Pike Place Market offers a plethora of goods.

While visiting Pike Place, don’t forget to check out these key sights:

• The Gum Wall : While I personally find it a bit gross, Seattle’s Gum Wall is a prominent local landmark worth checking out. On the side of the Post Alley’s Market Theater, it’s one of the most popular Seattle photo spots!

• Rachel the Pig : Located under the iconic red Public Market Center sign, Rachel the Piggy Bank is a bronze sculpture based on the 1985 Island County Fair prize-winning 770-pound pig. Here, you can take some photos and donate some coins to help support Pike Place Market.
• The Original Starbucks : While the Starbucks located in Pike Place Market is commonly referred to as the Original Starbucks, it is actually the second store that opened. Nevertheless, as the first Starbucks no longer exists, the Starbucks located in Pike Place is the closest we can get to the original. Drop by for some souvenirs and great photo ops!
• Beecher’s Handmade Cheese : While I’m not a huge cheese enthusiast, I still adored having some of Beecher’s macaroni and cheese. Stop by to try some handmade artisan cheese!

With so many sights to see in Pike Place Market, don’t rush this part of our walking tour of Seattle. Take your time and explore the shops and restaurants, before heading to our next stop!

• Address : 85 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
• Time to Get Here : It’ll take 7 minutes to walk from Pier 62 to the Pike Place Public Market.
• Hours : Most businesses are open from 9 am to 5 pm.
• Website : http://pikeplacemarket.org/

Victor Steinbrueck Park

Next, walk from Pike Place Market to Victor Steinbrueck Park. A small but charming park offering pleasant ocean views, it is worth visiting en route to our next destination. However, there are occasionally some sketchy characters hanging around, so be aware and stay safe!

• Address : 2001 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, United States
• Time to Get Here : It’ll take 3 minutes to walk from Pike Place to Victor Steinbrueck Park.

Olympic Sculpture Park

From Victor Steinbrueck Park, walk for 14 minutes to Olympic Sculpture Park. Spanning nine acres and associated with the Seattle Art Museum, this award-winning park is a great place to relax, offering clean amenities, enchanting views, and interesting sculptures. And with no entrance fee, it is one of the best cheap things to do in Seattle.

• Address : 2901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, United States
• Time to Get Here : It’ll take 14 minutes to walk from Victor Steinbrueck Park to Olympic Sculpture Park.
• Cost : Free
• Website : https://www.seattleartmuseum.org/visit/olympic-sculpture-park

Seattle Center

Finally, the last stop on our walking tour of Seattle is Seattle Center, which includes four key museums and sites: the Seattle Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of Pop Culture, and the Pacific Science Center.

While this free walking tour of Seattle is officially over, you can easily spend hours exploring the museums around Seattle Center, especially since they all offer something different and unique. So, make sure you have enough time!

• Address : 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
• Time to Get Here : It’ll take 8 minutes to walk from Olympic Sculpture Park to Seattle Center.
• Website : http://www.seattlecenter.com/

The Space Needle

One of the most popular and exalted tourist attractions in Seattle, the Space Needle was built for the 1962 World’s Fair and stands at 605 feet (184 m) tall. While tickets aren’t cheap, there’s no better place to admire the breathtaking panoramic views of Seattle!

• Address : 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
• Cost : General admission tickets for adults costs $35 (but you can buy a combined ticket with Chihuly Garden and Glass for $57!).
• Hours : Their core hours are from 12 pm to 5 pm, but additional hours will be added 2-4 weeks in advance.
• Website : https://www.spaceneedle.com/

Chihuly Garden and Glass

One of the coolest art galleries I’ve ever visited, the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum showcases the fantastic glass blowing sculptures and art pieces of Dale Chihuly, a celebrated artist from Tacoma, Washington.

With eight galleries, three Drawing Walls, and the Glasshouse and Garden offering fabulous views of the Seattle Space Needle, you won’t be bored at Chihuly Garden and Glass!

• Cost : General admission tickets for adults cost $32 (but you can buy a combined ticket with the Space Needle for $57!).
• Hours : 9 am to 6 pm from Sunday to Thursday, and 9 am to 7 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Website : https://www.chihulygardenandglass.com/

The Museum of Pop Culture

If you’re a music or film enthusiast, you have to visit the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) on your Seattle free walking tour. A nonprofit museum focused on contemporary popular culture, they offer exhibits on the Seattle Sound (with a focus on Nirvana and Pearl Jam), science fiction, and horror films.

• Address : 325 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
• Cost : Adult tickets cost anywhere from $26.75 to $34.50 (depending on the day you’re visiting).
• Hours : 10 am to 6 pm from Monday to Friday, and 9 am to 6 pm on the weekend.
• Website : https://www.mopop.org/

The Pacific Science Center

A nonprofit museum perfect for those traveling with young children, the Pacific Science Center offers fascinating educational experiences and exhibits focused on science and discovery.

• Address : 200 2nd Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
• Hours : Temporarily closed
• Website : https://www.pacificsciencecenter.org/

Thinking of visiting New Orleans, Louisiana? If so, check out my 3-day New Orleans itinerary , for ideas on where to go and what to see!

Other Fabulous Things to Do in Seattle

Now that we’ve finished our walking tour , you’re probably looking for an extra couple things to do in Seattle. So, here is my list of 10 additional awesome places to visit:

• Kerry Park : Seattle’s best photo spot, Kerry Park is located on Queen Anne Hill and offers breathtaking views of the Seattle skyline, Elliot Bay, and Mount Rainier. It is definitely one of the most romantic things to do in Seattle!

• Seattle Art Museum : Located near Pike Place, the Seattle Art Museum offers a wide variety of gorgeous art pieces completed by artists from around the globe.
• South Lake Union : A scenic lake located in central Seattle, South Lake Union is the perfect place to relax and people-watch. It also offers some great Seattle outdoor activities, with both paddle board and kayak rentals!
• Gas Works Park : Located on the north shore of Lake Union, Gas Works Park is the former site of a Seattle Gas Light Company gasification plant. With fascinating remains and delightful views, this unique park is one of the best in Seattle.

• Pioneer Square : A rustic and charming neighborhood in the heart of old Seattle, Pioneer Square is a delightful historic area with cute boutiques, delicious restaurants, and striking murals.
• The Smith Tower : Located in Pioneer Square, the Smith Tower, built in 1914, is Seattle’s oldest skyscraper. With charming architecture and stunning views from the observatory and bar, the Smith Tower is one of the best things to do at night in Seattle.

• Chinatown-International District : The epicenter of Seattle’s Asian-American community, the Chinatown-International District can be split into three sections: Chinatown, Japantown, and Little Saigon. Regardless of the area you’re exploring, the Chinatown-International district will offer the best Asian cuisine in Seattle!
• The Museum of Flight : The world’s largest nonprofit air and space museum, the Museum of Flight is a fascinating spot that will enthuse all flight enthusiasts, holding both the original Boeing Aircraft factory and a NASA space shuttle trainer!

• Seward Park : Offering some of the best Seattle walking trails, Seward Park holds 300 acres of enchanting forests, lovely beaches, and a delightful native plant garden.
• Day Trips from Seattle : From Mount Rainier, Olympic National Park, Snoqualmie Falls, and Mount Saint Helens, there are numerous incredible day trips from Seattle; I’ve even written an article about it! Click here to read my article on the most amazing day trips from Seattle .

Or, if you’re looking for a Seattle day trip that takes you out of the US and into Canada , check out my articles on Vancouver and the Gulf Islands:

• 18 Spectacular Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• The Ultimate Self-Guided Vancouver Walking Tour
• The 15 Best Hikes in Vancouver
• 22 Incredible Hikes near Vancouver
• 6 Epic Whistler Hikes
• 11 Fabulous Things to Do in Salt Spring Island

The Best Time to Visit Seattle

To avoid Seattle’s infamous rain, one of the best times to visit Seattle is in the summer, from June to August. With average high temperatures ranging from 71°F to 79°F (22°C-26°C), the weather is warm and sunny.

However, as this is Seattle’s high season, the crowds are consequently bigger and accommodations tend to cost more (so it’s not the best time for budget travelers ).

In my opinion, the best time to visit Seattle is in the shoulder season (spring and fall), with either September or October being the best month to visit Seattle. It’s also a great time to go on some walking tours in Seattle, as the weather isn’t too hot!

And That’s It for our Walking Tour of Seattle!

I hope you enjoyed reading this article, and I hope you’ll love this walking tour of Seattle. Remember, as this is a self-guided walking tour , you have the final say in where you go and what you do. Best of luck, and happy travels.

Thanks for reading the article! If you have any questions, feel free to comment down below, and if you want to see more travel and hike-related content, make sure to check out my other articles.

Photos by Mia and Pixabay.

Planning a Oahu vacation, and wondering what to do? If so, click here for my list of the best hikes in Oahu , and click here for the best Oahu waterfalls .

About to embark on a trip? Here are some helpful articles to make your trip as awesome and stress-free as possible:

• How to Travel Without Breaking the Bank
• 15 Things to Do Before a Trip
• How to Start Hiking: 15 Beginner Hiking Tips
• 15 Incredible Day Trips in Seattle

And here are some additional helpful links:

• Click here for my walking tours
• Click here for my hiking guides
• Click here for more posts on North America
• Click here for more posts on destinations in the US
• Click here for more resources

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Mia is the founder of Walk a While with Me, a travel blog dedicated to sharing the best self-guided walking tours, travel itineraries, and hikes for destinations around the world. A keen traveler, she has visited more than 20 countries in the past six years. She is excited for you to follow along on her adventures!

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Thanks for the awesome walking guide! We followed your advice and ideas from our cruise ship port and through city center! Great fun facts and sites! Thank you!

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Downtown Seattle Walking Tour – Self-Guided

Tour Details

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Welcome to the downtown seattle walking tour.

Experience breathtaking scenery, history, and eccentric culture with this Downtown Seattle Walking Tour. Visit the majestic Seattle Aquarium, explore the heart of downtown, shop at Pike Place Market, and learn how the city rose from a single homestead! Plus, dig into the details behind coffee culture, grunge music, and much more. As a bonus, this package also includes a tour around the Space Needle!

About the Tour

Your walking tour of Seattle begins at the 1483 Alaskan Way, Pier 59 . Here you’ll discover the rich aquatic life that abounds in Puget Sound. From there, you’ll pass the Seattle Great Wheel and hear how a shrewd businessman transformed a pier into a tourist hub, full of bakeries, restaurants, and other shops.  As you keep walking, you’ll learn about Puget Sound and the history of the Coast Salish. 

Up next, you’ll revisit the founding of modern Seattle. You’ll get the story of the Denny family, their dangerous trek west, and a homestead that grew to become the city it is today!  Speaking of danger, you’ll also get to know the shrewd Chief Si’ahl, his friend David “Doc” Maynard, and other essential figures from Seattle’s past.

Your journey next takes you to Ye Olde Curiosity Shop, where you’ll be introduced to Joseph Stanley. Uncover his fondness for all things odd and take a peek inside… if you dare! Plus, go back in time and hear how a bucket of glue started a devastating fire that transformed the city!

As you stroll through the bustling downtown, you’ll see the majestic Smith Tower. At 38 stories, it was the tallest building west of the Mississippi upon its completion in 1914! You’ll get to unearth some of the stories and rumors associated with it, including connections to Imperial China, stuntmen, and Prohibition! 

The journey next takes you to majestic Pioneer Square, heart of modern Seattle. You’ll learn about the city’s first steam powered sawmill and the rise of logging, Seattle’s first major industry. Here you can also admire the 60-foot totem pole, which came all the way from Alaska! As you continue, listen to accounts of the famous World Fair, a battle of technological might at the height of the Cold War. You’ll also learn how Microsoft and Amazon arose and forever changed the city of Seattle.

As you head toward Pike Place Market, uncover the history of Starbucks and get to know the mind behind its explosion: Howard Schultz. Hear how he transformed a small local chain into the biggest name in coffee! Then pass Benaroya Hall and hear how grunge arose, with Nirvana putting Seattle on the musical map! The journey concludes at bustling Pike Place Market, a historic market where you’ll find anything your heart desires.

BONUS TOUR:   This tour also includes a bonus walking tour around the Space Needle! Learn its history, explore the surrounding attractions, and see a whole different side of Seattle!

Want all of our tours? Upgrade to Action+ :

• An annual $99.99/year subscription offers access to over 160+ tours.
• Unlimited use throughout the year.
• Includes free access to new tours as they are released.

Where To Start?

We recommend Starting From: 1483 Alaskan Way, Pier 59

How Does It Work?

• Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
• Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
• To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
• The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
• Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.

Preview The Tour

  where does the downtown seattle walking tour begin.

The tour begins at the Seattle Aquarium.

  What famous attraction can you find near the Seattle Aquarium?

The Seattle Great Wheel, which was transformed by a shrewd businessman into a tourist hub.

  What is significant about the Smith Tower in downtown Seattle?

The Smith Tower was once the tallest building west of the Mississippi and holds intriguing stories and rumors.

  Who were the Coast Salish, and what’s their history in the region?

The Coast Salish are indigenous people with a significant history in the Puget Sound region. The tour shares insights into their history.

  What’s the story behind the founding of modern Seattle?

The tour recounts the Denny family’s dangerous trek west and how their homestead grew into the city of Seattle.

  What can visitors expect to find at Ye Olde Curiosity Shop?

Ye Olde Curiosity Shop is home to Joseph Stanley’s collection of oddities, and the tour offers a glimpse inside this unique shop.

  What’s the history behind the 60-foot totem pole in Pioneer Square?

The totem pole, originally from Alaska, is a highlight in Pioneer Square, and the tour provides insights into its history

  What’s the best time to visit Downtown Seattle for a walking tour?

The best time to visit is during the spring and summer months, from May to September, when the weather is pleasant

  Are there any must-visit cultural attractions in the downtown area?

Yes, explore the impressive museums like the Seattle Aquarium, Benaroya Hall, and the nearby National Museum of African American History and Culture.

  What’s unique about the restaurants and shops near the Seattle Great Wheel?

These shops and eateries have transformed a pier into a bustling tourist hub, offering a unique shopping and dining experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Nearby tours.

Space Needle Tour – Self-Guided Walk

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Self-Guided Walking Tour

Long before Seattle was a tech hub or the capital of the grunge subculture, before it was known as the home to aerospace giant Boeing, even before settlers arrived, Seattle was a waterfront town. The Duwamish—the original inhabitants of the area — relied on the Puget Sound for salmon and shellfish. Early settlers built piers to ship their timber. Over the years, the waterfront developed into a modern working port. The Port of Seattle is still the seventh busiest port in the U.S.

This 4-mile walking tour takes you through the prettiest part of Seattle’s downtown waterfront, detours through the Seattle Center, moves down along the kitschy, but fun central waterfront, before dropping you in the historical Pioneer Square and International District neighborhoods.

Start your day at the Olympic Sculpture Park, the Seattle Art Museum’s free outdoor sculpture garden. Start at the corner of Western Avenue and Broad Street. Work your way through the sculptures and down to the waterfront. Once there, head north on the Elliott Bay Trail.

With views of the Olympic Mountains, container ships and fishing vessels and sail boats out on the Sound, rocky beaches, grass and trees and greenery, the Elliott Bay Trail is among the prettiest in the city. After a half mile, head right up the ramp to the Thomas Street pedestrian and bicycle overpass. At the far end of the bridge, head left up 3rd Avenue W., then take your next right onto Harrison Street. Stay on Harrison until it spits you out in front of Key Arena at the west entrance to the Seattle Center.

Immediately to your left, you’ll find the new home of legendary Seattle radio station KEXP. The station has space open to the public, offers free tours and often hosts live in-studio performances by major touring groups that the public can watch. Head to the center of the park to see (or play in) the International Fountain, a massive display that sometimes sprays a choreographed performance to music. At the south end of the Seattle Center, you’ll of course find the Space Needle as well as the Chihuly Glass Museum and the Pacific Science Center.

Once you’ve seen all the Seattle Center you wish to see, exit from the south and head right on Broad Street. This will take you right back to the start of the tour at the sculpture park. If you’re up for more walking, hang a left on Alaskan Way and continue south along the water.

The waterfront is, for better or worse, undergoing a transformation right now as the city gets ready to tear down the old Highway 99 viaduct. The good news is eventually it will feature a pedestrian promenade, a protected bike lane, new parks, and more. The bad is that much of the north end of the waterfront is currently a tour of construction sites. Luckily, 10 to 15 minutes of walking on the Elliott Bay Trail gets you past the construction and over to the waterfront’s classic tourist haunts. You can take a tour of the Seattle Aquarium, take a spin on the giant Ferris wheel and grab seafood from one of several restaurants in the complex.

From there, head east on Spring towards downtown. Take your first right on to Western Avenue and follow it four blocks to Yesler Way. Head left on Yesler for two blocks then head right on Occidental Avenue. Explore the historical Pioneer Square neighborhood, the first neighborhood developed in the city. Enjoy a stroll through Occidental Square, a pedestrian-only plaza ringed by shops, art galleries, restaurants and bars. For upscale eats and drinks, try London Plane or Copal, both located in the square. If you need a caffeinated pick me up before finishing the tour head, walk to the end of the plaza, take a left on Jackson and head one block to Zeitgeist Coffee.

If you’re interested in learning a little bit about one of Seattle’s historical boom times, head across the street to the Klondike Gold Rush Museum. Operated by the National Parks Service, this free museum tells the story of the late 1800s Yukon Gold Rush and Seattle’s role in it.

Finish your tour in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District. The historical and modern center of Seattle’s Chinese-, Japanese-, and Vietnamese-American communities, the CID is filled with amazing shops and restaurants. To get there, continue down Jackson Street to 5th Avenue. Take a right on 5th, then a left on King Street to enter the neighborhood through the ornate Chinatown Gate. Head right on 6th Avenue for one block, then check out Uwajimaya, an Asian grocery store, bookstore and food court. The bookstore and its many knickknacks are well worth browsing through. Back on Jackson, you’ll find KOBO Seattle, a store and gallery filled with Japanese art and artisan crafts. If you’ve managed to hold out all afternoon for food, the CID is tough to beat. Try Shanghai Garden for Chinese. Green Leaf Vietnamese has excellent pho. If you’re in the mood for dim sum, try Harbor City or Jade Garden.

Things to see and do in Seattle

Klondike Gold Rush Museum

Free National Park Service museum about the Yokun Gold Rush

KOBO Seattle

Gallery and store in the ID featuring Japanese artists and artisans

Seattle Center

Space Needle, International Fountain, Glass Museum and more, the Seattle Center is a classic.

Great Wheel

Giant ferris wheel on the Seattle waterfront.

Iconic radio station. Their Seattle Center HQ is open for public tours.

Olympic Sculpture Park

Free outdoor sculupture park operated by the Seattle Art Museum

Harbor City

Popular dim sum restaurant in the ID

Jade Garden

More dim sum in the ID

Shanghai Garden

Chinese food in Chinatown

Green Leaf Vietnamese

Vietnamese restaurant in the ID

Ivar's Fish Bar

Fish n chips and chowder on the waterfront

Elliott's Oyster House

Sit down seafood restaurant on the waterfront

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Welcome to HistoryLink's Walking Tours

Written by HistoryLink’s network of experts in local history, our easy-to-use self-guided walking tours — now with audio and translation — explore Washington neighborhoods with a nod to the past. Meticulously researched and richly illustrated, each tour is easily accessible via public transit.

Pike Place Market Architecture

Volunteer Park (Seattle)

South Lake Union

Pioneer Square

Pike Place Market Eateries

Central District

Market to MOHAI

Chinatown-International District

Seattle’s Central Waterfront

Forest Park (Everett)

Tacoma’s Union Station/Warehouse Historic District

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Seattle: Downtown Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour

Set out on a journey through the heart of Seattle with the ‘Seattle: Downtown Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour.’

As you stroll along the city streets, you’ll uncover hidden stories behind famous landmarks and dive into the city’s vibrant past.

But what we love about this tour? Stay tuned to discover how this immersive experience blends history, culture , and technology to offer a truly unforgettable exploration of Seattle’s downtown core.

• Engage in a self-guided tour through Seattle Downtown with cultural tales and historic landmarks .
• Experience Seattle’s vibrant pulse at Pike Place Market and explore its musical roots.
• Discover the city’s history from Puget Sound to Pioneer Square with immersive audio stories.
• Convenient app access, offline maps , and flexible booking options for a seamless and informative tour.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Emerald City Bicycle Tour
• Mt. St. Helens National Monument From Seattle: All-Inclusive Small-Group Tour
• The Original Food and Culture Tour of Pike Place Market
• Seattle Chocolate Tour

Tour Booking Details

When booking the self-guided walking audio tour of Seattle downtown, travelers can enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This booking detail ensures peace of mind for those planning their trip.

Payment flexibility is another highlight, allowing visitors to reserve now and pay later, keeping their travel plans adaptable. Plus, the refund policy guarantees a hassle-free experience, giving travelers the option to adjust their itinerary as needed.

Reservation options are straightforward, offering convenience for those wanting to secure their spot without immediate payment. These features make booking the tour a stress-free process, providing travelers with the confidence to explore Seattle at their own pace.

Tour Highlights

Marveling at the iconic Seattle Great Wheel symbolizing city progress, visitors on the self-guided walking audio tour of Seattle downtown are in for a memorable experience.

Here are some tour highlights that showcase the rich history and cultural tales of Seattle:

Walk Seattle’s pathways with pioneers and cultural tales: Explore the city through the eyes of its early settlers and learn about its diverse cultural heritage.

Marvel at the iconic Seattle Great Wheel symbolizing city progress: Witness the symbol of Seattle’s growth and development while enjoying panoramic views of the city.

Dive into tales from Puget Sound to historic Pioneer Square: Enjoy stories spanning from the waterfront to Seattle’s oldest neighborhood.

Experience the vibrant pulse of Seattle at Pike Place Market: Discover the bustling energy and unique charm of this famous market, steeped in Seattle history.

More Great Things To Do Nearby

Tour Description

Want to explore the vibrant heart of Seattle with a personalized audio guide and immersive storytelling experience? Dive into the founding history and iconic landmarks of modern Seattle with this self-guided walking tour. Discover the stories of the city’s pioneers and the landmarks that shaped its identity. From the bustling Pike Place Market to the historic Pioneer Square, this 1.6+ mile-long tour will take you on a journey through Seattle’s past and present in just 1-2 hours.

Tour Inclusions

Set out on a captivating journey through Seattle’s vibrant downtown with a range of inclusions designed to enhance your self-guided walking tour experience.

Engaging Storytelling : Enjoy the rich history and culture of Seattle through captivating narratives that bring the city to life.

Route Exploration : Discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks along the comprehensive route, providing a detailed and immersive tour experience.

Offline Maps : Navigate seamlessly without the need for cellular data or wifi, ensuring you stay on track throughout your exploration.

Hands-Free Audio Stories: Enjoy a hands-free experience as the audio stories automatically play based on your location, allowing you to soak in the sights and sounds of Seattle without distractions.

Tour Logistics

Start your self-guided walking tour of Seattle Downtown by selecting the participants and date, checking availability for your desired date. Once confirmed, head to 5231 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101 , to begin your journey.

Access the tour using the Action Tour Guide app with a unique password. The app provides engaging storytelling and a map for easy navigation. Throughout the tour, you’ll encounter various tour checkpoints, including iconic landmarks like the Seattle Great Wheel and Pike Place Market.

Make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and any necessary tour equipment. Follow the audio instructions to seamlessly navigate the 1.6+ mile route, experiencing the vibrant pulse of Seattle at your own pace.

Tour Directions

As you begin your self-guided walking tour through Seattle Downtown, the audio guide will lead you along a captivating route filled with historical landmarks and cultural insights.

Follow the guide’s directions to Pioneer Square, where you’ll uncover the city’s founding and early history.

Hear stories about Seattle’s grunge era and musical roots as you pass by Benaroya Hall.

Walk through Pike Place Market and experience the vibrant pulse of Seattle’s cultural scene.

Marvel at the iconic Seattle Great Wheel, symbolizing the city’s progress over the years.

With these directions, you’ll not only explore the historical landmarks that shaped Seattle but also gain cultural insights that provide a deeper understanding of this dynamic city.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Bon Vivant Woodinville Wine Tasting Tour
• Private Transfer From Seattle Downtown or Seatac to Whistler
• Seattle: Sensory Hike in Twin Fall for Adventurous Families
• Seattle: Private City Driving Tour With Local Guide
• Touring and Hiking in Mt. Rainier National Park
• Private Transfer From Whistler to Seatac or Seattle Downtown

Common questions

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors on the Seattle Downtown Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour?

While student discounts are available, seniors can also benefit from reduced rates on the Seattle Downtown Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour. This engaging tour offers a unique way to explore Seattle’s iconic landmarks and history for those seeking educational and memorable experiences.

Can the Tour Be Customized or Personalized Based on Specific Interests or Preferences of the Participants?

When exploring Seattle with the self-guided tour, participants can personalize their experience through customization options . Tailor the journey to specific interests and preferences, enhancing the tour with personalized stories and information suited to individual tastes.

Is There a Recommended Time of Day to Start the Self-Guided Walking Tour for the Best Experience in Seattle Downtown?

For the best experience in downtown Seattle, it’s recommended to start the self-guided walking tour in the morning or afternoon. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the city during daylight hours, with the option to catch a beautiful sunset or explore into the evening.

Are There Any Recommended Nearby Restaurants or Cafes Along the Tour Route Where Participants Can Grab a Bite to Eat or a Drink?

While on the tour, participants can explore hidden gems for local cuisine. Dive into Seattle’s coffee culture at nearby cafes or savor craft cocktails at bars along the route. These dining spots enhance the tour experience.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs That Participants Should Be Aware of Before Starting the Seattle Downtown Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour?

Participants should be aware of any additional fees or costs before starting the tour. While discounts may be available, customization options could incur extra charges. It’s essential to check for any potential expenses to plan accordingly.

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Experience the magic of Seattle like never before with the ‘Seattle: Downtown Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour.’

From the vibrant Pike Place Market to the historic Pioneer Square, this tour offers a unique way to explore the city’s rich history and cultural hotspots.

With the convenience of offline maps and engaging narration, you can uncover the hidden gems of Seattle at your own pace.

Lace up your shoes and embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the city.

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The Emerald City is rich with history, and there are several popular sites to see in the greater Seattle area.

Whether you're interested in checking out the Space Needle or you want to see what Pike Place Market is all about, chances are you'll find at least one walking tour that meets your needs.

As a matter of fact, there are so many Seattle walking tours that it can sometimes be difficult to pick just one. With that in mind, we've decided to provide a comparison of these services to make your life easier.

While some of these tours are actually free, you can expect ticket prices to fluctuate between $20-$60 on average for each trek. Most of these tours run for 2 hours or less, but there are a few that can run a bit longer.

As you might expect, it can rain quite a bit in Seattle – even during the warmer months.

With that in mind, we recommend bringing comfortable shoes and a hooded sweatshirt. You could bring an umbrella along, but wind gusts can easily cause them to break.

• Seattle 101 Tours
• Pike Place Market Tours
• Themed Tours
• Fremont Tours
• Underground Tours
• Self Guided/Audio Tours

Although the hills in Seattle are nowhere near as bad as in San Francisco, you should still plan on doing a bit of climbing while walking around the city.

Some visitors may find this a bit difficult, but it shouldn't be a problem for most people. If you don't want to deal with too many hills, you might want to consider one of the shorter tours on this list.

Without further ado, let's take a look at several popular Seattle walking tours!

SEATTLE 101 TOURS

From Seattle Center to historic Pioneer Square, there's plenty to see in the downtown area.

These walking tours will showcase some of the most popular sites in the Emerald City while discussing the history behind each significant landmark.

Although some options clock in at 1-2 hours in length, others will cover a lot more ground over the course of up to 5 hours.

These treks are typically very affordable, so you won't have to spend a lot of money to see the main attractions in Seattle.

Seattle Free Walking Tours

This company currently takes pride in offering the only pay-what-you-want tour in Seattle. When it comes to discovering the most important sites in the city, they actually offer at least one trip worth considering.

Their main excursion is Seattle 101, which starts at Pike Place Market and makes stops at the waterfront and Pioneer Square.

This outing provides plenty of excellent photo ops as you learn about the history of the Emerald City.

Although you won't have to pay any specific amount for a ticket, it is advised to reserve your spot ahead of time just in case the tour fills up quickly.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Seattle Free Walking Tours (@seattlefreewalkingtours)

• Ticket Prices: Pay whatever you feel the trip was worth!
• Duration: 2 hours
• Availability: Daily, rain or shine between 10 AM - 3 PM
• Click here for more information

Seattle Free Walking Tours has earned an overall rating of 5 stars on TripAdvisor. Few of their customers have given them a negative reviews, indicating that their service is excellent.

Guests typically appreciate the wonderful views and historical information provided by their tour guides.

Some visitors also took the time to note that although the tour runs for two hours, the walking is fairly easy for most people. This trip was most popular among couples, friends and those who decided to make the trek on their own.

See Seattle Walking Tours

Although this tour isn't free, it is much longer and covers a lot more ground. If you're looking to learn a lot more than just the basics, this may be your best bet.

While on this trek, you'll discover sites such as Union Square, China Gate, Hammering Man and even the Klondike Gold Rush National Park museum.

This trip will definitely take you off the beaten path a bit, allowing you to see areas in Seattle that most tours won't cover.

Considering the length of this outing, it's fair to say that tickets are reasonably priced.

• Ticket Prices: $20 for Adults/Teens | Children under 12 tour free with an Adult
• Duration: 5 hours
• Availability: Mon-Sat from 10 AM - 3 PM
• Six Reservations are required for tour to run
• Lunch break provided

Although they don't have a lot of reviews on Yelp, this company has been featured by Frommer's, Seattle City Guide and several other reliable sources.

See Seattle has been around for several years and they were even reviewed in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer .

Those who have left ratings for this tour have indicated that they actually enjoy the non-commercial touch offered by this service. These comments indicate that their tour guide was both knowledgeable and personable.

PIKE PLACE MARKET WALKING TOURS

Pike Place Market is perhaps one of the most interesting places you will ever shop. In addition to a variety of fresh food, you will also experience several unique stores offering all kinds of wares.

With such an eclectic selection of shops and an interesting past to go along with them, there's plenty to see and do at this Seattle landmark.

Although some of these tours are all about the tasty treats you'll find in the area, others are focused more on the history of Pike Place. Tickets range from $15-$50 and you can expect an average duration of 1-3 hours for each outing.

Friends of the Market

If you're looking for a historical journey through Pike Place Market, this may be your best bet.

Although availability is limited, this is one of the only Pike Place tours that focuses specifically on how this location became one of the oldest operating farmer's markets in the country.

Clocking in at only an hour in length, this outing should be fairly easy for most audiences. Ticket prices are reasonable, but they have very limited space, so you'll want to book your trip well in advance.

• Ticket Prices: $15 for Adults | $10 for Seniors | $8 for Children | Kids under 6 are free
• Duration: 1 hour
• Availability: Every Saturday from June – September at 9 AM
• This company can only accommodate 10 people per group

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pike Place Market (@pikeplacepublicmarket)

Friends of the Market is actually an organization that once saved Pike Place Market in the mid 60's.

In the early 70's, they sponsored an initiative which would make the market a historical district, keeping it safe from modern architects looking to build over the history of Seattle.

With such deep ties to the site, you can rest assured that they know quite a bit about the area. Since they are not a tour company, you won't necessarily find a lot of reviews for their tours.

That being said, when the random guest does decide to leave a review, their ratings are typically very high.

Show Me Seattle

There is a lot of tasty food for sale at Pike Place Market, and this tour will give you the opportunity to experience several delicious treats.

In addition to at least 8 different tastings, you'll also learn about the history of this historic site. Running for a total of 2 ½ hours, this outing will give you plenty of time to experience a lot of the local flavor available at Pike Place.

Although tickets are a bit more costly than usual, all of the snacks you will taste are included for free.

• Ticket Price: $58.99 per person | Kids under 5 are free
• Availability: Daily at 10 AM, 1:30 PM., 2 PM, 10:30 PM, 2:30 PM
• 8+ tastings included
• Discount card included

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Show Me Seattle (@show.me.seattle)

Reviews for this service are pretty good ( read reviews here ). While Show Me Seattle indicates that the tastings will represent a light lunch, some visitors have gone so far as to suggest that you shouldn't eat breakfast before going on this walking tour.

An overwhelming majority of customers were happy with this trip, indicating that the food on this outing was excellent.

Even guests from Seattle were very impressed with this outing, noting that they learned a lot of history they hadn't previously known. Couples and friends were the most likely groups to appreciate this trek.

Savor Seattle

This outing is described as a "food and cultural tour" of Pike Place Market, indicating that they spend time focusing on both the grub and the history behind this notable Seattle landmark.

As you enjoy a variety of treats from seven different vendors, you'll also learn a lot about how this little marketplace stood the test of time.

At 2 hours in length, this trip is just long enough to cover a lot of ground and short enough that you won't get too tired.

Ticket prices fall in line with similar services, making this an excellent alternative to other Pike Place tours.

• Ticket Prices: $62.88 per person
• Availability: Varies by season, typically offered at least once or twice a day during the Summer
• 16 different tastings included

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Savor Seattle (@savorseattle)

Much like their competitors, this company has also received a lot of positive ratings ( read reviews here ).

Many customers were very happy with the amount of food they got to taste, and some even suggested that you will not leave hungry.

Other visitors noted that visiting the area on their own was a little too hectic, but having a guide to help them find their way around was very helpful.

Even guests who have lived in Seattle all their lives were impressed with this tour.

Seattle Bites ( now Secret Food Tours Seattle )

This food tour of Pike Place Market seeks to provide both the flavors and the history behind this notable Seattle landmark.

Promising 8-9 generous portions, guests can rest assured that they won't leave this trip hungry. Over the course of 2 ½ hours, you'll learn all about how this local farmer's market became such an important location in the Emerald City.

The cost per person falls in line with all of their competitors, but groups of 5 or more can save 10% on tickets.

• Ticket Prices: $59 per person
• Duration: 2 ½ hours
• Availability: Daily at 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM
• 8-9 generous tastings included

Believe it or not, this may be one of the most well received tours in Seattle. Reviewers on TripAdvisor have given them a full 5 star rating, indicating that they offer a pretty reliable service.

Even customers who live in Seattle were surprised by how much they discovered about Pike Place Market while on this outing.

Several visitors were impressed with both the tasty treats and the information provided. Couples and those who went with a friend were the most likely to leave a positive review.

Although they are probably better known for offering discounts on a variety of activities, Viator actually offers an exclusive tour of Pike Place Market.

This is an early access trip which will allow you to discover the area before it becomes too crowded. While on this 2 hour trek, you'll have the opportunity to sample at least 17 different types of food.

While tasting the delicious treats made at Pike Place, you'll learn a lot about the history of this market.

The price of admission a little more expensive than you'll find with competitors, but it might be worth it to show up early and avoid large crowds.

• Ticket Prices: $76.30 per person
• Duration: 2 to 2 ½ hours
• Availability: Almost every day at 8:30 AM and 9 AM
• Group size is limited to 12 people
• 17 or more tastings included

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pike Place Market Foundation (@pikeplacemarketfoundation)

Reviews for this service are quite excellent, as an overwhelming majority of customers have given it a 5 star rating ( read reviews here ).

Most guests agreed that the food was incredible and the tour was very informative. Some visitors were especially happy to see the market before it was swarming with shoppers.

Several reviewers mentioned their tour guides by name, indicating that they were very personable and passionate about the subject.

If you're looking for a less expensive trip around the area, this company actually offers a pay-what-you-wish Pike Place Market tour.

At only an hour in length, you shouldn't expect anything incredibly detailed, but you might be surprised to find that they do actually provide some food samples on this outing.

Learn about the history of this location while experiencing such sites as the oldest Starbucks, Rachel the Pig and the famous fish throwers.

• Ticket Prices: Pay whatever you want!
• Availability: Daily between 9:30 AM - 2 PM
• Reservations recommended

Ratings for this tour are very high on TripAdvisor, with most customers giving the experience 5 stars .

Guests report that they learned a lot about the history of Pike Place while enjoying a few samples from some vendors.

Some visitors were especially appreciative of their tour guides, suggesting that they were very attentive and provided a lot of information.

Although this trip was most popular among couples, it was also very well received by families.

THEMED SEATTLE WALKING TOURS

Whether you want to learn about the history of Amazon or how coffee became such a hot commodity in Seattle, you'll probably find a tour that covers the subject.

These outings are definitely more specialized, and you can expect ticket prices to reflect that at a range of $30-$40 per person.

At an average of 1 ½ - 2 ½ hours in length, these excursions provide the opportunity to see a side of the Emerald City that few get to experience.

Seattle By Foot Walking Tours

The history of coffee in Seattle is far more complex than most people understand. If you think the story begins and ends at Starbucks, this tour might just change your mind.

Over the course of 2 ½ hours, you'll learn all about the coffee houses that pioneered new and innovative brewing techniques that would put this city on the map.

This trip includes 6 or more samples, ensuring you'll have plenty of energy for the trek. Considering the tour length and free coffee, the price of admission is more than reasonable.

• Ticket Prices: $30 per person
• Availability: Thur-Mon at 10 AM
• 6 coffee samples included
• Not currently available

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Starbucks First and Pike (@starbucksreserve.1standpike)

Seattle By Foot has actually received a full 5 star rating on TripAdvisor. Reviews for their coffee tour are exceptionally good, with a majority of customers giving them high praise.

Several guests were impressed by the amount of information they learned, with one visitor going so far as to suggest that their tour guide was a "walking encyclopedia" of coffee knowledge.

Although couples were the most likely to leave a positive review, families and friends were also very happy with this outing.

Seattle Free Walking Tours Criminal History Tour

Note: Currently not available.

In addition to their other pay-what-you-wish tours, this company also offers a pretty interesting trip which focuses on the criminal history of Seattle.

Thanks to the Klondike gold rush and other factors, this city became a haven for a variety of visitors looking to spend their newfound riches.

Needless to say, wherever you find money, crime is sure to follow. During this 1+ hour trek around the Emerald City, you'll learn all about how crime influenced the development of what would become a sprawling metropolis.

• Duration: 1-1 ½ hours
• Availability: Wed-Sat at 7 PM
• Not recommended for children under the age of 16

Although this True Crime tour doesn't have many reviews, ratings for the outing are still excellent.

Guests described the trip as both fascinating and informative, heaping praise on their tour guides for making the experience very enjoyable.

Some visitors were pleased to note that the outing gave them plenty to talk about for several hours to come. Even locals were quite impressed with the amount of information provided.

Savor Seattle Chocolate Tours

If coffee isn't your thing, maybe you'll be more interested in confections made from another type of bean.

In addition to their Pike Place food tour, this company also offers a chocolate indulgence outing which will provide at least 15 different tastings of everyone's favorite treat.

Enjoy a variety of different desserts including cookies, cheesecake, truffles and more. Tickets are a bit costly for this 2 hour trek, but who could possibly say no to a chocolate tour?

• Ticket Prices: $51.99 per person
• Availability: Depends upon season | Daily during the summer at 11 AM & 11:30 AM
• 15 chocolate tastings included

As you can probably imagine, reviews for this tour are quite wonderful ( read reviews here ).

Visitors recommend that you do not eat beforehand, indicating that there will be more than enough to fill your stomach on this trip.

Almost everyone who left a review for this service was blown away by the quality of the chocolate. Several guests mentioned their tour guides by name, stating that they were friendly and attentive.

This food tour was most popular among couples, families and customers who brought a friend along for the experience.

Seattle Untamed Tour

Note: Tours are not currently available.

During the Klondike Gold Rush, Seattle was a hotbed of wild and sometimes criminal activity.

When millions of dollars pour into the economy of a growing city, it attracts activity from all kinds of characters.

As a matter of fact, this time period was so significant to the history of Seattle that at least one tour operator was inspired to create this outing.

Over the course of 90 minutes, you'll learn all about how an untamed Emerald City responded to gold fever. The price of admission is very reasonable, coming in at under $20 per person.

• Ticket Prices: $18 for Adults | $15 for Students/Seniors/Military | $12 for Children
• Duration: 1 ½ hours
• Availability: Thursday - Monday at 10 AM & 1 PM
• This company focuses on smaller group sizes

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Klondike Gold Rush NHP Seattle (@klondike_nps_seattle)

TIP: Although this tour is currently unavailable, the Klondike Gold Rush National Park in Seattle is open to the public and it is entirely free to visit!

Customers on TripAdvisor have given this tour company a full 5 star rating. Most guests were very impressed with the amount of information provided during the outing, indicating that they enjoyed all of the historic sites included on the trip.

Several visitors mentioned their tour guide by name, stating that they were friendly, helpful, and well informed about the history of Seattle.

Couples and people who brought a friend along for the journey were most likely to leave a positive review.

Urban Adventure Quest

If you're looking for a somewhat different experience in Seattle, you might want to consider a scavenger hunt.

These activities can be fun not only as team building exercises, but also for friends and families who want to go on an adventure around the city.

In addition to discovering various historic sites and landmarks, you'll also enjoy the excitement of finding various locations by using clues provided by a live guide.

These excursions typically take about 3 hours to complete, giving you plenty of time to see the city. The price of admission is very reasonable, as you pay one low price per group.

• Ticket Prices: $44 per group
• Duration: 3 hours
• Availability: Daily anytime between 8 AM - 5 PM
• Groups of 6 people or fewer per team are recommended

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Space Needle (@spaceneedle)

NOTE: The Space Needle is one of the stops on this scavenger hunt!

This Seattle scavenger hunt has received mostly excellent reviews and ratings ( read reviews here ).

Several guests suggest that this is an excellent way to become familiar with the city and see a majority of the significant sites in just a few hours.

Some local customers were impressed with the amount they learned about despite being pretty familiar with the area.

Several reviewers felt that this was a fun and interesting family activity, but it was also popular among couples.

FREMONT WALKING TOURS

It seems like every major city has at least one unique neighborhood, and Fremont definitely fills that role for Seattle.

This is one of the most artistic districts in the city, featuring street art at every turn and a fairly interesting open air market.

If you thought Seattleites were quirky before, wait until you take a walk around these blocks! Fremont tours typically run for between 1-2 hours total and they are usually very affordable.

While some trips can cost up to $20 per ticket, others allow you to pay what you wish.

Seattle Side Walks

Despite their name, this company actually only offers this one tour through Fremont. That being said, it's worth noting that this tour is pay-what-you-wish and easily accessible for most audiences.

Although availability depends on the season, they do provide this outing at least 5 days a week throughout the year.

Each trip around this eclectic neighborhood will last for approximately 90 minutes, giving you plenty of time to see a more artistic side of Seattle.

• Ticket Prices: Pay-what-you-wish
• Availability: Wednesday - Sunday at 11 AM
• Reservation is not required, but is recommended

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Israel Fulton (@izzyreallyizzy)

Visitors have given this service a full 5 star rating on TripAdvisor. Guests who took this tour were especially impressed by all the quirky and offbeat sites they got to see in Fremont.

Several people were very pleased with the amount of information provided on their outing, indicating that this is an excellent trip for anyone who doesn't want to do the typical tourist activities in Seattle.

This trek was a hit with audiences that either went alone or joined their friends.

The Fremont Tour

If you're looking for a slightly more spirited walk around Fremont, this might be your best bet.

They advertise the experience as "street theater," indicating that their tour guides provide not only historical information, but also a performance!

This trek is wheelchair and family friendly, making it accessible for a variety of audiences.

While on this 90-minute tour, you'll discover the story of this neighborhood and its various landmarks. Admission prices are very affordable and reasonable.

• Ticket Prices: $20 for Adults | $16 for Seniors/Students | FREE for Children under 10 (and over 90!)
• Availability: Every Weekend from Spring-Fall at 1 PM & 3 PM
• They also offer a family package for $60

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Totally Seattle Tours (@totallyseattle)

Despite the limited availability and the price of admission, this tour currently sports a 4 ½ star rating on TripAdvisor and other services ( read reviews here ).

Several visitors felt that their tour guides were not only fun to be around, but also very entertaining. Other guests found their view of the arts transformed by this creative and original trek around Fremont.

Almost every customer was very pleased with the amount of information provided on this trip.

Families and customers who brought a friend along for the journey were more likely to enjoy their unique expedition around Seattle.

SEATTLE UNDERGROUND WALKING TOURS

Believe it or not, there's a side of Seattle that few visitors ever get to see. After the great fire of 1889, several shops and buildings were simply buried, allowing contractors to build on top of the previous structures.

As a result, some of the oldest locations in this city are actually underground. Whether you're interested in history or the paranormal, there are tour companies that specialize in providing trips to these forgotten areas.

Tickets are fairly affordable at $20-$30 per person, and the outings are typically 1-2 hours in length, making them easier to fit into your schedule.

Bill Speidel's Underground Tour

Rather than focus on the spookier side of the city and its past, this underground tour seeks to give you a more humorous look at some of the most historic locations in Seattle.

Discover some of the most hilarious tales from early settlers and pioneers who aided in founding the Emerald City.

Although the trip only lasts for 75 minutes, you might be surprised by everything they cover on this incredible outing.

Admission is well priced and will be very affordable for most customers.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Underground Tour (@undergroundtour)

• Ticket Prices: $22 for Adults | $20 for Students/Seniors | $10 for Children
• Duration: 75 minutes
• Availability: Every day, once an hour from 9 AM - 7 PM during Spring - Fall
• Also available every day, once an hour from 10 AM - 6 PM during Fall-Spring

This underground tour currently has an overall rating of 4 stars on TripAdvisor. Although that isn't a perfect score, it's still incredibly good.

Even those who didn't particularly love the trip reported that it was fairly enjoyable.

Some visitors were very impressed with the historical detail provided by their tour guides, stating that it was easy for them to imagine what life had been like back in the late 1800's.

Several customers felt that the outing was fun and educational. This short trek was most popular among couples, families and friends.

Beneath the Streets

Much like their competition, this company also provides tours of Seattle's forgotten underground.

Over the course of one hour, you'll cover 3 city blocks of Pioneer Square, discovering abandoned passageways which were constructed over 100 years ago.

Uncover historic sites that few travelers (or locals) will ever see as a professional guide explains what life was like just a few decades after the city was founded.

The price of entry for this activity is actually more affordable than some similar services.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marissa Pedersen (@postcardstoseattle)

• Ticket Prices: $29 for Adults | $25.54 for Seniors/Student/Military | $17 for Children
• Availability: 10+ tours/day from Monday - Thursday
• Additional tours available Friday - Sunday

Believe it or not, this company has actually received far better ratings than their competitors ( read reviews here ).

Quite a few visitors were surprised by the amount of history they learned about while on this tour.

Customers typically described their tour guides as knowledgeable and personable, indicating that they made the whole experience a lot of fun.

Although this excursion was popular with most audiences, couples and families were the most likely to leave a positive review.

Spooked in Seattle

If you want to learn more about the potential haunted history of Seattle's oldest locations, this might be your best bet.

In addition to providing spooky tales based on real events, they also take you underground to experience some of the creepiest buildings in the city.

During this 90 minute trek, real ghost hunters will share their experiences and provide a different look at the Emerald City.

Ghost hunts are also available at least twice a month. Tickets for their original Pioneer Square tour are very reasonably priced.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Spooked In Seattle (@spookedinseattle)

• Ticket Prices: $15 per person
• Availability: Fri-Sun at 7 PM
• Due to the popularity of this tour, we recommend making reservations at least a week in advance

Customers have seen fit to give this service an overall rating of 4 ½ stars on TripAdvisor. Some reviewers went so far as to claim that this was the best ghost tour they had ever experienced.

Other guests were impressed that their tour guides weren't trying to force the idea of paranormal activity, instead choosing to focus on the sometimes spooky history of Seattle.

Most visitors felt that the outing was both entertaining and informative. This trip was especially well rated by Couples and guests who brought a friend for the creepy journey.

SELF-GUIDED AND AUDIO TOURS

These tours might actually be some of the least expensive options in Seattle, and they cover some pretty important ground.

If you don't mind showing yourself around the city, this is an excellent way to save money while exploring some of the most significant landmarks in the area.

Most of these are entirely free, but the audio tour will come at a price. You can expect outings to last from 1-3 hours on average.

We recommend these opportunities for visitors who are either familiar with the territory or prefer to discover the Emerald City on their own.

Seattle Center Tours

Believe it or not, the group behind Seattle Center actually provides their own self-guided walking tour of the area.

This trek includes 25 points of interest along with a map and some facts about each location. Although there aren't a lot of details included with this brochure, it does contain a map of Seattle Center which can be invaluable when trying to find various landmarks.

This tour is available either as a downloadable PDF file or on paper at the Seattle Center Armory Information Center.

Give yourself at least 1-2 hours to explore the campus.

• Ticket Prices: FREE for everyone
• Duration: 1-3 hours on average
• Availability: Whenever you want (most sites will only be open during the day)
• Click here to download the self-guided tour brochure

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Seattle Monorail (@seattlemonorail)

Although there aren't many reviews for the self-guided tour, most visitors agree that Seattle Center is a wonderful place to explore.

This location has received an overall rating of 4 ½ stars on TripAdvisor, and it's not difficult to understand why.

In addition to housing popular landmarks such as the Space Needle, this is also the area where you will find the Museum of Popular Culture and other significant sites.

Couples and families were most likely to leave an excellent review of this location.

GPSMyCity Self-Guided Tours

This company is well known for providing free self-guided tours through their apps on both Android and Apple devices.

Whether you want to discover Seattle Center, Pioneer Square, Fremont, Capitol Hill or several other locations, this app provides a lot of information about the Emerald City.

If you plan on using your phone to look up information about the area, this could be a great way to learn about Seattle as you explore the city at your own pace.

Expect most tours to last for around 1-2 hours.

• Duration: 1-2 hours on average
• Availability: whenever you want
• Click here to download the app

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pioneer Square Seattle (@pioneersquare)

With an overall rating of 4 stars on Google Play , it's fair to say that this app is well received.

Although it doesn't provide a ton of information, there's a lot more to chew on than you might expect.

This is definitely a decent addition to some of the other self-guided tours in the area, but we wouldn't recommend it as your only source of data about Seattle.

Seattle Times Self-Guided Walking Tours

It's only fitting that one of the most popular newspapers in Seattle would provide no less than 5 different self-guided walking tours around the city.

Whether you just want to see what the Chinatown area is like or you're more interested in Pioneer Square, you'll find that there is plenty to explore on these fairly simple treks.

As a matter of fact, you can easily combine more than one of these outings to extend your trip around the city.

Give yourself 1-2 hours to experience each of these tours.

• Click here for all five self-guided tours

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ActionKid (@actionkidtv)

If you haven't already noticed, most people don't even bother to write reviews for self-guided tours.

Unfortunately, we can't tell you what everyone else thought, but we can say that this is a great starting point for anyone new to the Seattle area.

Each walking tour will take you by some of the most significant sites in the city, making it easier to become familiar with the area.

They even provide recommendations for locations where you can stop and refuel before continuing to explore the region.

Citywalksz Audio Tour 

Partaking in a self-guided walking tour can be a lot of fun, but sometimes you'd rather have someone explain the area to you.

If you're not interested in a crowded walking tour but you still want to avoid a lot of reading, this could be your best bet.

Clocking in at 3 hours in length, you'll have plenty of time to explore Seattle at your own pace and discover the history behind this city.

The price of this audio tour is a bit much, but the tour does cover a lot of ground.

• Ticket Prices: $13.99 per person
• Availability: Whenever you want

View this post on Instagram A post shared by State of Washington Tourism (@stateofwatourism)

This outing focuses on a variety of popular landmarks such as the Space Needle, Pioneer Square, Pike Place Market and the Klondike Gold Rush Park Museum.

While you're on the tour, you'll have the opportunity to discover significant historical sites and famous tourist attractions.

Unfortunately, as with most self-guided and audio tours, there aren't many reviews for this service.

That being said, it looks like this company covers a lot of ground and offers similar services all over the world, indicating that they've got some experience with tourism.

And much, much more

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

• Getting Here
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• The Neighborhood
• Experiences

Trail To Treasure

FREE Summer Tours

Dates and times for Summer 2024 to be announced soon.

No registration necessary

There will be a sign-up sheet at the front desk on the day of each tour.

For More Info

(206) 220-4240

Visit our Website

Trail to Treasure Walking Tour Videos

Experience the Trail to Treasure Walking Tour from home or in the field with t his series of videos .

Welcome to Seattle's first neighborhood. Pioneer Square is the historic birthplace of Seattle and Seattle's first historic district. Follow the routes on the Trail to Treasure map to get to know the people who became local legends - some born and raised here, others who traveled from afar to settle in this historic neighborhood. You'll also learn stories of the special places and events that helped shape the history and development of Pioneer Square, the city of Seattle and the greater Puget Sound region.

Historical Walking Trail & Waysides

Find a Trail to Treasure walking map at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and the information booths at Occidental Square and Pioneer Square Park. Pick up a map and start your historical tour from any of these spots..

You’ll find Trail to Treasure exhibits along the sidewalks throughout Pioneer Square. These informational panels feature historical photos and facts that give pedestrians the opportunity to see the urban environment around them as it once was.

Whether you come across a wayside, take a summer tour, or start at the first point on the Trail to Treasure walking map, we’re excited to have you explore the history of the neighborhood and of Seattle!

The Trail to Treasure program is funded in part by the 4Culture Lodging Tax.

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Downtown Seattle Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour

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Self-guided tour of Seattle, Washington

The city has seen unprecedented economic growth, adding 220,000 jobs over the past decade. Amazon is headquartered in Seattle and Microsoft is just about thirty minutes outside the city in Redmond. Two richest people in the world, Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates, have homes in the nearby small town of Medina, Washington. Amazon dominates Seattle with more than 45,000 jobs in the city and around 20% of Seattle's prime office real estate. Google has almost 4000 employees in the region and is increasing its presence there, like Facebook, which is rapidly growing its footprint in Seattle.  Intrigued? Take this self-guided walking tour of Seattle. Look at the map and let's go!

Let’s start with getting out at Chinatown-International District light rail station.

Chinatown-International District

King Street Station

Historic Ivar's Acres of Clams restaurant

If you are not so hungry, just have a cup of coffee at Starbucks next door.

Drink coffee at Starbucks in Starbucks hometown

Argosy Cruises

Olympic Sculpture Park

Then get to the iconic Space Needle.

Space Needle

Chief Seattle monument

Amazon Spheres

Address: The Spheres, 2111 7th Ave

Finish your tour at Pike Place Market.

Pike Place Market

Address: 1st Ave and Pike Street

Practical information

If you take a boat tour by Argosy cruises, have lunch afterwards and spend some time at the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, this tour will take a full day for you.

You can also do a tour in the opposite direction, starting it from the Pike Place market. As the weather can be unpredictable in Seattle, be prepared with an umbrella and/or raincoat. Bring a water bottle and some snacks as always.

What did you think? Have you been to Seattle, Washington? Or perhaps you’re thinking of visiting there in the near future? Either way, I’d love to hear from you so please add your comments below.

• Published by Anita on October 25, 2019

Author: Anita Sane

About the author Anita is a part-time traveller, passionate photographer and a retired career woman from Latvia,  travelling mostly solo for more than 15 years.  She is a skilled travel planner who plans and executes her travels by herself. Anita wants to show you how to travel the world and open your mind to new  experiences. Follow her on Facebook ,  Instagram ,  Pinterest ,  Twitter  and Bloglovin .

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Seattle Self-Guided Historical Walking Tours

At HistoryLink.tours, visitors can download a free web app to your phone and explore Seattle and beyond with self-guided urban hikes. Our team of historians have crafted walking tours of neighborhoods, parks, and other places that will amaze, entertain, and inform. All this and a good walk too!

Each highly illustrated tour is anchored to transit stops, allows users to follow their locations on the tour map, and provides accessibility notes and walking distances.

• Address 93 Pike Street, Suite 315B, Seattle, WA 98101
• Phone (206) 447-8140

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The Emerald Palate

Seattle food tours & retreats

Fremont Self-Guided Food Tour

$ 12.95

This 38-page Seattle self-guided walking tour will help you explore the funky Fremont neighborhood of Seattle like a local. It’s a digital download (PDF) that takes you on 8 stops to the best restaurants in Fremont. It also includes 14 “worthy mentions” in case you’re extra hungry. You can expect recommendations of what to order, mouthwatering photos, interviews with some of the restaurants, and pro tips to make sure you don’t look like a tourist.

Oh, and I update this guide regularly to keep it fresh. There’s no need to buy again. You get automatic access to the most recent guide when you purchase. No businesses paid to be in this guide. It’s just an ode to my favorite places to eat and drink in Fremont.

Is this a gift? Email me after you complete your order and I’ll send you a custom digital gift certificate. It’ll include the download link directly on it so your loved one can access the most up-to-date version of the food tour anytime.

Description

• Reviews (1)

What you get in this self-guided Seattle walking tour

After you purchase this guide, you’ll be able to download a mobile-friendly PDF with all of the following:

• A self-guided itinerary for visiting the 8 best restaurants in Fremont
• A map to help you get a sense of where everything is
• Recommendations of what to order and how to avoid crowds
• Interviews with my favorite restaurants
• Drool-worthy food photos to help you know what to expect
• 14 additional “worthy mentions” to help you customize your tour
• Ideas for non-eating activities to do between eats
• Tips for how to get to Fremont and the best time to visit
• A look inside Fremont’s historic past and how it became the artsy neighborhood it is today

You can expect to cover about 2.2 miles over the course of about 5 hours on this Seattle self-guided walking tour if you choose to go to all 8 stops. I recommend starting around 1 pm so you can visit the 2 restaurants only open for lunch and the 2 only open for dinner .

The benefits of a self-guided tour

• You’ll avoid looking like a tourist.
• It offers the flexibility to go at your own pace or customize the adventure.
• It’s more affordable.
• You pay the restaurants directly (there’s no middle man to take a “cut”).
• You don’t have to make small talk with strangers.
• It reveals the  best places, not just ones that will accommodate larger group.

About Fremont

All the guide books will tell you to visit downtown Seattle. But insiders know the best way to experience Seattle is through its surrounding neighborhoods.

Fremont is a fiercely independent neighborhood that is easily accessible by bus. Residents call it “The Center of the Universe” after local “scientists” determined that the universe’s actual center was within Fremont’s business district. Whether or not this is true, Fremont sits right along Lake Union and offers stunning views of the Seattle skyline. You’ll also find funky murals and sculptures throughout the neighborhood, reminding visitors that Fremont is a neighborhood worth knowing about.

If you love independent shops, local restaurants, hipster coffee spots, and craft markets, you’ll absolutely love Fremont. I look forward to sharing this gem of a neighborhood with you!

About your guide

The Ballard and Fremont neighborhoods have been my home for more than a decade, which means I know where to find the best eats. And since I care deeply about small businesses, I decided to create self-guided walking tours to connect you with my favorites.

I considered hosting in-person Seattle walking tours, but I discovered some things about the industry that made me uncomfortable.

First, there’s an issue with some food tour companies trying to get discounts from restaurants with promises of “exposure”. Second, tours tend to cater to large groups. As a result, some businesses aren’t willing to work with food tours.

To better align with my values of supporting small businesses and authentically sharing the best of the best, I decided to offer self-guided walking tours of Seattle instead. I hope you love them as much as I do, and take pride knowing you are supporting small businesses directly.

Tons! The benefit of a self-guided tour is you can customize the itinerary to eat as much or as little food as you want. This tour has 8 stops and assumes at least 4 hungry adults attend. However, I’ve taken it with one other person and got through it all by splitting everything and taking some leftovers home.

You’ll also get 12 honorable mentions so you can try even more places if you’re in a large group. Since this is self-guided, you’ll get full-sized portions when you order. So start hungry!

Oh yes! I include one bar on the itinerary and most of the restaurant serve alcoholic drinks.

It is! However, I’d recommend skipping the one bar on the itinerary and swapping it with one of the honorable mentions instead. Also note there are a few fancier restaurants that don't have kids menus.

This tour has one 0.7 mile uphill climb, so if you plan to walk you need to be pretty fit. However, there are buses that take you up this hill. Without this hill, it’s about 1.5 miles of walking on flat ground with plenty of stops to eat and shop!

While the recommended dishes on this tour do not take into account any specific dietary restrictions, you’ll find a mix of meat, vegetarian, and gluten free options. And the best part is you can order whatever you want at these restaurants because this is a self-guided walking tour! I’d say vegans will have the hardest time finding dishes at all the recommended restaurants, but one on the tour is very vegan friendly and there are a few honorable mentions that would be good for vegans.

If you order all the recommended dishes on this walking tour, you’ll spend about $200 not including tax or gratuity. If you’re taking this with 4 other person, that’s about $50 pp pre-tax and tip and I’d be really impressed if you left hungry.

Since this is self-guided, you can mix and match your itinerary to fit any budget. Most dishes recommended are under $20-$25, with a pricier option at the fanciest restaurant.

There are a few I recommend that you do, yes. I note which ones in the guide so you can plan ahead! However, most stops don’t need reservations.

Absolutely not. I believe strongly that the best food tours include stops that a local would tell their best friends to visit. That means they shouldn’t be recommended places that give them kickbacks!

Yes! Since this is self-guided, you can bring your furry friend along. Some restaurants will allow them inside, but for those that won’t, there are plenty of places to tie them up outside.

Unfortunately no. Hopefully you’ll find this jam packed with enough recommendations and insider tips that you’ll think it’s worth the nominal fee that compensates me for my time putting it together!

I’d really appreciate if you didn’t. It took me more than 80 hours to put this guide together and the small fee I charge compensates me for that effort. Just as I’m trying to help small businesses grow by featuring them in this guide, I hope you’ll help me grow by not sharing this with others unless you buy it as a gift.

I'm not hosting tours at this time, but I host in-person overnight small group tours to foodie destinations around Washington from time to time. Join me on those for a food trip you’ll never forget!

Absolutely! I offer personal travel planning services for more than just food tours, but am happy to hone in on a food crawl if you'd like.

1 review for Fremont Self-Guided Food Tour

Mark Feldstein (verified owner) – January 24, 2022

The Fremont self-guided food tour was well worth the small investment. It changed our entire trip by providing a wonderful guide to an area we had never planned to explore. It was very well-written with plenty of photos and helpful advice – much more than I had expected. It was like having a travel guide but in my pocket. I’d highly recommend it to anyone planning a trip to the Seattle area.

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For more than 30 years, SAF’s architecture walking tours have served to entertain and educate locals and visitors about Seattle’s rich architectural and cultural history.

All of our guided tours are led by talented volunteers who serve as ambassadors for our beautiful metropolis. Our expert guides are excited to share their knowledge with the public to advance a better understanding of architecture, landscapes, and urban design practices that shape our city.   All tour ticket purchases directly support our educational programs for youth and families.

Tours are approximately two hours in length and run Saturdays from 10:00am – 12:00pm. See our FAQs page for more information.

Please note:  A minimum of three people must be registered for tours to take place. Tours with fewer than three registered attendees on the Thursday before the tour will be cancelled.

See what people are saying

The Foundation runs really great walking tours where they cover various neighborhoods/areas around Seattle. You needn't have a background in architecture to enjoy it (though it can help), but really it's a great way to see some unexpected details around town with a great mix of people and led by a knowledgeable guide.

The Greatest Hits tour of Downtown Seattle offers a really comprehensive history of Seattle's rapid development from a pioneer town, to an earnest fledgling city, to a nascent metropolitan area. The neighborhood tours offer fantastic conversation-starters about the residents of the city, and how each place got its character.

The stone to steel tour by Nancy Day is a fabulous way to get to know Seattle architecture. It’s apparent from the gut-go that Nancy knows her stuff. The two hours passed quickly. The pace was perfect not too fast but not slow. I would highly recommend this tour.

Great introduction to houses and history in the Harvard Belmont neighborhood. So much to see and learn about pockets of the city that I have been in many times. Now I will know so much more about what I am seeing as I pass by. Very enriching. Thank you!

Nancy is an incredible guide — her knowledge, insight, and enthusiasm made the tour fantastic. It was helpful how she placed the architectural information into the context of other historical events — also really enjoyed the unique connection with fashion. Thanks Nancy!

Tour design, tour leader were excellent and the contributions of fellow tour members were very beneficial

Can't wait do another tour

I absolutely loved Nancy - she was a wonderful guide. I am sold on SAF tours and will definitely be signing up for more from you!

Ballard Landmark District

Columbia City: Expect Random Encounters

Diamonds & Gold: The Art Deco Skyscraper Northwest Style

Federal Avenue: Understated Elegance on the Park

From Stone to Steel: Seattle Style from Then ‘til Now

Harvard Belmont District: The Rich Life on Capitol Hill

Hidden Spaces/Public Places

High Ambitions: Concrete, Steel, Glass & Egos

Madrona Neighborhood: Streetcar Suburb; Model for Neighborhood Involvement

Modern Beauty and the Pedestrian Experience

Mt. Baker: More Than A View

Purple and Gold: From Gothic to Modern at the UW Core

Queen Anne: Evolution of an Urban Neighborhood

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South Lake Union: Then & Now

Through The Looking Glass

SAF also offers private tours for up to 10 guests at a starting rate of $200. Larger groups may be accommodated upon request and cost an additional $20 per person. Please schedule 2–4 weeks in advance to ensure availability and note we may not be able to accommodate all requests. 

Seattle's Highest Rated Underground Attraction!

Beneath the Streets offers boutique tours dedicated to providing authentic and unique guided explorations through the historic underground passageways of Seattle’s original neighborhood, Pioneer Square.

Our ONE HOUR walking tours are led by fun, professional, and seasoned tour guides who live and breathe Seattle history. We never use scripts and enhance the guest experience with insider tips and local favorites!

     10:00am - 4:30pm

  Seven Days a Week

Tours are ONE HOUR in length departing multiple times daily

_________________________

--  After Hours: Red Light District Tour  

Adults only tour with a focus on the "underside" of underground history. Humorous  discussion about  prostitution, gambling, drinking and vice. 18 yrs +

 6:30pm  Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays

 75 minutes in length

__________________________

* 15.35% tax added to all sales

Operating Hours

The Queer Underground History Tour

Celebrate Pride

Click here  to see schedule.

Adults only. 75 minutes.

$28 pl us tax

A Cabaret Style Musical Celebrating Pioneer Square

Opens July 5th

8:00pm Thursday, Friday, Saturday

$35 Adults ~ $30 Senior, Student, Military

(plus sales and admission taxes).

For parking information click here and enter 102 Cherry Street as your destination.

New!  Prohibition Tour 

Tour and Live Band! June 12th

 Seattle’s Pioneer Square was the center of lucrative, dangerous “rum running” operations and vibrant “speakeasies” in the 1920s.  Join veteran tour guide and jazz musician, Mike Daugherty, on a tour of the “underground” (both literal and figurative) mixed with fascinating stories of the old bootlegging days in Puget Sound.  At the end of your tour, sneak in the backdoor of a dark club to hear a live, authentic 1920s-style HOT JAZZ band, and enjoy a “pick-me-up” of your choice.

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• where to find us
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• A Little History

614 1st Avenue, in Pioneer Place Park, Pioneer Square, between Cherry and James Street. Take the James Street Exit from Interstate 5.

206-682-4646

Inquire about cost-saving Private Tours and Special Events. Call 206-682-4646, ext. 118.

Did you know?

The term “Skid Road” came from Pioneer Square

The 75-minute guided walking tour begins beneath Doc Maynard’s Public House, then spills into historic Pioneer Square, Seattle’s birthplace, before plunging underground for an exclusive, time-capsule view of the buried city.!

It’s the only way to tour the interconnecting tunnels of the world-famous Seattle Underground—don’t be fooled by impostors.

All the while, tour guides regale you with sidesplitting stories our pioneers didn’t want you to hear. It’s history with punch lines!

Tickets available in advance, online here and by phone at 206-682-4646, or at our ticket counter at 614 First Avenue, in Pioneer Place Park, Pioneer Square.

The tour ends in Rogues Gallery and the Underground Gift Shop, where you’ll find displays depicting the past and Northwest memorabilia. Sons of the Profits , the book by Bill Speidel upon which the tour is based, is our most popular souvenir.

Doc Maynard’s Public House, suitable for the entire family, offers affordable snacks, breakfast, lunch and dinner, including fresh Northwest seasonal fare, and a full bar. Or order the specially priced lunch and tour combo when you purchase your tickets. (The tour starts with a 15-minute seated introduction, convenient for a quick bite before heading underground.)

Tour Schedule

Tours start on the hour, every day, april-september, 9 am-7 pm, october-march, 10 am-6 pm.

December 24 (Christmas Eve), 10 am-1 pm December 26-31, 9 am-6 pm

Tours daily, year round, except: Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Tours may be added during peak seasons. Tours last approximately 75 minutes. Children 6 years and under are admitted free, but may find the tour challenging.

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319 Second Ave S. Seattle, WA 98104

206 220-4240

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Explore Like a Local: The Top 8 Sydney Walking Tours in 2024

Are you looking for the best Sydney walking tours? Look no further.

Sydney’s heart beats in its bustling streets, serene coastal walks, and historic hideaways, all waiting to be discovered on foot. With a vast selection of walking tours at your fingertips, both private tours and not, deciding on the perfect one can be overwhelming.

Don't have time to read the full article?

Book this Ultimate Sydney Walking Tour  - with a perfect rating.

Luckily, I’ve navigated Sydney’s varied terrains and vibrant neighbourhoods, making me your ideal guide through this selection. This blog is crafted for those eager to explore Sydney from a fresh perspective, offering insights into the top walking tours of 2024.

Each Sydney walk promises an experience that captivates and connects you deeply with the city. Prepare to set off on a journey that brings Sydney’s spirit to life every step of the way.

Our Top 3 Picks: Best Guided Tours in Sydney

#1 TOP PICK

Ultimate Sydney Walking Tour Brewery Beer & Snacks

Custom Recommendations Map

Convicts and The Rocks: Sydney’s Walking Tour Visit Inside Customs House

Local Crime Historian Guide

Sydney The Rocks Guided Walking Tour Explore Cadman's Cottage

Specialist Trained Guide

Best Sydney Walking Tours

Uncover Sydney’s vibrant soul by foot with our curated list of the 6 best walking tours, each providing a unique journey from iconic landscapes to hidden gems. I carefully selected these tours to ensure that you’ll have unforgettable memories and a deeper connection to the city’s vibrant soul.

1. Ultimate Sydney Walking Tour

  Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars |   Tour Length : 3 hours 30 mins |   Check Rates and Availability

The Ultimate Sydney Walking Tour is a small-group experience that delves deep into Sydney’s heart and soul. Kicking off at the historic Customs House, your journey begins, spanning its origins through the colonial era to the diverse tapestry of Aboriginal cultures that define it today.

As you wander, you’ll encounter iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, each chapter of the walk enriching your understanding of Sydney’s evolution. The stories of the land’s first peoples, the impact of British settlers, the trials of convicts, and various migrant communities are intricately woven into the fabric of the city you see today.

Significant stops at The Mint, Hyde Park Barracks, and the Royal Botanic Garden highlight Sydney’s history and ongoing story.

These sites are the settings of architecture, society, and cultural narratives that have sculpted Sydney’s identity over the years.

A standout moment of the tour is your visit to the Queen Victoria Building (QVB) , a stunning showcase of Sydney’s architectural grandeur. It’s a perfect spot to pause and soak in the beauty that surrounds you.

The journey doesn’t end there; it takes you through The Rocks, an area brimming with historical significance and charm. It peels back layers of Sydney’s past and its transformation into its current vibrant city.

Wrapping up at The Squire’s Landing, you’re treated to breathtaking views of the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House . As you enjoy a refreshing beer, you can reflect on exciting stories and sights that make Sydney so uniquely captivating.

2. Convicts and The Rocks: Sydney’s Walking Tour

  Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars |   Tour Length : 2 hours 30 mins|   Check Rates and Availability

Embark on a captivating journey through time with the Convicts and The Rocks: Sydney’s Walking Tour Led by Historian . This tour delves deep into the gritty and compelling history of Sydney’s founding era, led by a knowledgeable historian guide.

Starting at the iconic Customs House, the tour peels back the layers of Sydney’s early days. You’ll explore the city’s oldest cottage, uncover tales of the first convicts, and discover how a shanty camp transformed into a bustling settlement.

Wandering through The Rocks, you’ll be led on a 2.5-hour exploration covering 20 historic sites . You’ll also see maps and murals depicting old and new Sydney, offering a visual journey through time. 

The tour concludes in the heart of The Rocks, surrounded by historic pubs and cafes. Here, your guide will share local recommendations, allowing you to continue exploring or relax with a well-earned drink.

3. Sydney The Rocks Guided Walking Tour

  Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars |   Tour Length : 1 hour 30 mins|   Check Rates and Availability

Dive into the heart of Sydney’s origins with the Sydney The Rocks Guided Walking Tour . This tour is a portal to the past, revealing the rich tapestry of Sydney’s earliest chapters right in the bustling city.

Guided by experts, you’ll tread through The Rocks, discovering its cobbled streets and historic alleys. Each site, from Cadman’s Cottage to the Garrison Church, is a piece of the puzzle in Sydney’s history.

The journey is peppered with panoramic views of Circular Quay and the majestic Sydney Harbour. Iconic sights like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge add a picturesque backdrop to the tales of yesteryears.

This walking tour isn’t just a walk but an immersive experience. It connects you to the stories of convicts and colonists who shaped Sydney , making it one of the best walking tours Sydney has to offer.

This tour is engaging and informative and suits anyone eager to explore Sydney and its roots. It’s a unique blend of historical walking tours Sydney presents, designed to enchant and educate.

4. The Rocks Pub Walking Tour

  Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars |   Tour Length : 2 hours 30 mins |   Check Rates and Availability

Step back in time with The Rocks Pub Walking Tour , an experience that blends Sydney’s history with the convivial atmosphere of its oldest pubs. It’s not just a tour; it’s a journey through the city’s colonial past, set against the backdrop of The Rocks’ cobbled streets and historical facades.

Over 2.5 hours, you’ll visit four historic pubs , each offering a glimpse into Sydney’s early days. At each stop, you’ll have the chance to taste a glass of craft beer, cider, or wine, making it a perfect blend of cultural and culinary exploration.

This tour is about more than just drinking; it’s an educational dive into the stories that shaped Sydney, from tales of larrikin gangs to the bubonic plague outbreak. Your guide will entertain and inform you, making the past come alive in the very places it happened.

The Rocks area, an iconic location with the best historical walking tours in Sydney , serves as a perfect setting. Here, the city’s earliest residents carved out a community, leaving stories etched in the sandstone buildings and narrow lanes.

Each pub visited on the tour stands as a testament to the area’s rich heritage, with tales of the “six o’clock swill” and ghost stories adding layers to your understanding of Sydney. You’ll learn about the city’s oldest pub , the first drink in Australia, and much more, all while enjoying the ambience of these legendary establishments.

Ending at The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel, the tour leaves you with a deeper appreciation for Sydney’s pub culture and history and invites you to become part of the story. Whether you’re a local or a visitor looking to explore Sydney, this pub walk is an unmissable experience.

5. Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) Guided Walking Tour

  Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars |   Tour Length : 1 hour 30 mins |   Check Rates and Availability

Explore the heart of Australian sports culture with a captivating guided walking tour at Sydney’s premier sporting venue .

This tour provides a unique glimpse into the vibrant world of Australian sports, including cricket, rugby, soccer, and Australian rules football.

Experience the thrill of walking down the players’ tunnel, viewing iconic trophies up close, and exploring the dressing rooms.

Each step of the tour is enriched with stories from the venue’s illustrious history. Enjoy the tour with a knowledgeable guide who brings the venue’s history and anecdotes to life. Walk through the areas usually reserved for sports legends.

This behind-the-scenes tour of the Sydney Cricket Ground precinct offers a deep dive into the sport’s history and its heroes .

It’s a rare opportunity to stand where legends have played and relive their glorious moments, even on event days.

6. Local Sydney Walking Tour – Aussie Food, Culture & Coffee

  Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars |   Tour Length : 3 hours |   Check Rates and Availability

Explore the vibrant inner-city neighbourhoods of Pyrmont, Ultimo, and Glebe on this intimate small-group guided walking tour .

You’ll wander through historic areas steeped in Aboriginal and colonial history, pick up some Aussie slang, and uncover why these spots are known for their abundance of pubs.

The tour includes a coffee break at a local café to soak up Sydney’s lively café culture and finishes with a refreshing glass of craft beer at one of the city’s most unique pubs.

You can also sample quintessential Australian snacks like Vegemite, Tim Tams, and kangaroo here.

Enjoy spectacular views of Darling Harbour and Sydney Harbour near the Australian National Maritime Museum, and conclude your tour near the Glebe Markets, a bustling hub for arts, crafts, vintage clothing, and gourmet food, available only on Saturdays.

7. Sydney Opera House Official Guided Walking Tour

  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars |   Tour Length : 1 hour |   Check Rates and Availability

Discover the magic behind one of the world’s most iconic buildings with the Sydney Opera House Official Guided Walking Tour . This is your chance to explore the brilliance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site up close, with stories and secrets shared by your knowledgeable guide.

Your adventure begins beneath the sails of the Sydney Opera House, where more than 1,800 performances light up the stages each year. It’s not just a tour; it’s an insider’s passage to areas usually hidden from the public eye.

Step into the world-famous concert halls , feeling the ambience that has hosted countless global stars. Learn about the extraordinary architecture that makes this building a wonder of the modern world.

Walking through the elegant foyers, you’ll see the opera house’s vaulted ceilings and sit in custom-made white birch chairs to complement the interior’s striking design. This tour not only lets you see but also feel and experience what makes the Sydney Opera House so special.

So, if you’re keen to explore Sydney and its crown jewel, this is one of Sydney’s guided walking tours. Book your spot and prepare to be inspired by the Sydney Opera House’s captivating story.

8. Sydney Shore Excursion: Sydney Opera House Walking Tour  

Make the most of your Sydney visit with the Sydney Shore Excursion: Sydney Opera House Walking Tour . This walking tour offers a unique chance to explore the iconic Sydney Opera House, its storied past, architectural marvels, and its role as a centre of world-class performances.

Your guide will share fascinating stories and facts through its sails and structures. You’ll also venture into areas typically closed to the public, uncovering the mysteries and engineering feats.

The tour is perfectly timed for those arriving by cruise, offering a seamless, enriching shore excursion that adds a memorable highlight to your Sydney visit. Plus, it concludes right where it starts, making it easy for you to explore more of Sydney’s treasures on foot.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning enthusiast, this walking tour promises new discoveries and a closer connection to Sydney’s architectural masterpiece. It’s one of the best walking tours in Sydney, Australia, for anyone wanting to uncover its stories and beauty.

FAQs: Best Walking Tours in Sydney

What is the walking tour.

The walking tour is an immersive guided experience where participants explore the local area on foot, learning about its history, culture, and landmarks. It’s designed to understand the region comprehensively through engaging storytelling and expert guidance.

How long should a walking tour last?

A walking tour typically lasts between one and three hours. This duration allows ample time to cover significant points of interest at a comfortable pace, ensuring participants fully experience the area’s attractions without feeling rushed.

Can you walk everywhere in Sydney?

While Sydney is a highly walkable city with many pedestrian-friendly areas, not every part is accessible on foot due to distance and terrain. Central areas like the CBD, Circular Quay, and Darling Harbour are ideal for walking, offering well-connected paths and scenic routes.

What is the most walkable part of Sydney?

The CBD (Central Business District) is considered the most walkable part of Sydney. This area is densely packed with attractions, shops, and restaurants, all closely located, making it easy to explore on foot. The layout of the streets and the availability of pedestrian zones enhance its walkability.

How do you spend a day in Sydney?

Spending a day in Sydney can include a morning walk around the Royal Botanic Garden, followed by a ferry ride from Circular Quay to Manly for lunch by the beach. In the afternoon, explore the iconic Sydney Opera House and the contemporary art at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Finish the day with dinner at Darling Harbour, enjoying the vibrant nightlife and waterfront views.

Is there an app for walking tours?

Yes, you can use the “GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities” app for Sydney, which offers various self-guided walking tours with detailed maps and information available offline. Additionally, the “Sydney Culture Walks” app is designed to explore Sydney’s rich cultural heritage through curated walks highlighting historical and artistic landmarks. Both apps provide a comprehensive way to experience the city at your own pace. More information on these apps is available on their respective websites.

Which area should you not miss when visiting Sydney?

When visiting Sydney, do not miss the iconic Circular Quay. This bustling harbour area is the gateway to some of Sydney’s most famous attractions, including the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It’s a vibrant spot where you can enjoy stunning views, take ferry rides to nearby attractions, and experience the lively street culture. Circular Quay truly captures the essence of Sydney’s scenic beauty and vibrant urban life.

Final Thoughts: Best Sydney Walking Tour

In conclusion, the Ultimate Sydney Walking Tour offers an enriching deep dive into the city’s vibrant history and culture, from its Aboriginal roots to its colonial past and architectural marvels.

This journey through Sydney connects you to the city’s iconic sights and hidden gems, ending with a spectacular view at The Squire’s Landing.

For an unforgettable exploration of Sydney, be sure to book your spot on the Ultimate Sydney Walking Tour and experience the soul of the city firsthand.