Pioneer Square
Pioneer Square is where Seattle was originally founded, and to this day retains much of the historic character it had when settlers first arrived here over two centuries ago. More a district than a square, it has been modernised lately with more green space and recreational areas, but still has plenty of old-fashioned charm.
It was here in the infancy of the Emerald City that settlers came and opened businesses, trading with local people along the waterfront of Elliot Bay. When the miners came through during the Yukon Gold Rush the area grew dramatically. Known affectionately as ‘Skid Row’ after the lumberjacks who used to skid logs down Yesler Street to the foot of the hill, nowadays you’re probably unlikely to bump into anyone riding a log around Pioneer Square!
Today the area is a popular destination for all ages and tastes, a great visitor attraction renowned especially for its rich artistic and cultural life. Take a guided tour through the cobbled streets on a horse-drawn carriage, or simply wander round and explore the old ivy-covered brick buildings, many of which are now cafes and bookstores, bars and clubs; thriving fixtures in the city’s social life rather than simply historic relics.
When you visit Pioneer Square you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to finding something to do. Learn about the city’s amazing heritage at the Klondike Gold Rush Historical Park. Head to the Smith Tower and take a ride to the top on the only manually-operated elevator anywhere up the U.S. West Coast. Dating back to 1914, Smith Tower was once the tallest building anywhere west of the Mississippi River and offers a captivating view of the landscape that surrounds the great city.
The district thrives at night too, with some of the most legendary bars and clubs that Seattle has to offer all located on this patch. Bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Alice in Chains made their way up from the clubs around here.
Situated to the south of downtown Seattle and easy to reach by car, bus or taxi, Pioneer Square is a popular destination for all types. If you drive, bear in mind free parking spots are few and far between, but car parks and charged street parking are easy to find.