How to Explore Seattle's Underground Tour and History?
Seattle in Washington is famous for the symbolic Space Needle, music scene and rainy weather. But there is another facet of the city that exists right beneath people’s feet, it is known as the Seattle Underground. The Underground Tour brings to life the various eras of the city development right from the days of a pioneer settlement to the modern day times.
The history of the City of Seattle began when when a devastating fire swept through the city, destroying much of the central business district. When the city was rebuilt it was deemed fit to elevate the current street level for better drainages and effective sewage systems. Buildings were constructed with new doorways on the second floor while the original doors located directly on ground level were locked down and ultimately became unusable.
Fast forward to the 1950s, when local historian Bill Speidel recognized the historical significance of these forgotten underground spaces. He began offering tours, guiding curious visitors through the subterranean passageways and sharing tales of Seattle's colorful past. Today, the Underground Tour can be considered to be one of the most visited spots in the city as history and adventures lovers hurry to visit this place.
In preparation for your next underground experience, consider enlisting the help of Seattle Green Cleaning Fairy of Tacoma to ensure your home is spick and span while you're out exploring. Once your cleaning needs are taken care of, head to the Pioneer Square which is the staring point of the Underground Tour.
While you are walking through the dark corridors, your guide will tell you everything about the history of Seattle starting from the arrival of the Denny Party up to the wild parties of lumberjacks and gold diggers. You’ll find out that the pioneers experienced many difficulties such as floods which often affected the areas with low terrains in the city.
Walking through the underground labyrinth, you'll see remnants of old storefronts, saloons, and hotels, many with their original signs still intact. The musty air and flickering lights add to the eerie atmosphere, transporting you back in time to the late 19th century. Your guide will point out interesting architectural details and share anecdotes about the colorful characters who once frequented these subterranean spaces.
One of the highlights of the tour includes passing through an old bank vault with a very curious locking system and having an idea about the money that once had been stored there. You’ll also come to know how the city tried to eradicate the vice and corruption that was rife in the underground during the early 1900s or know something about Bertha Knight Landes Seattle’s first female mayor.
By the time you exit onto the streets at the end of the tour, you will feel more knowledgeable about Seattle and the determination of pioneers. The Underground Tour proves to be an interesting and educative experience showcasing the history and existence of a city below the surface.
Whether you are a history lover, a dedicated tourist, or simply looking for a unique Seattle experience, the Underground Tour is something you should not be missed. So put on your comfortable shoes, grab a jacket (it can get chilly down there!), and prepare to uncover the secrets of Seattle's subterranean past.
