Activity Overview
Bill Speidel's Underground Tour is a fun and informative walking tour underneath Seattle's oldest neighborhood, Pioneer Square. The tour starts at Doc Maynard's Public House where guests are given a short tour introduction before proceeding to explore about three blocks of the underground alleys. Comical tour guides tell Seattle's history with a good amount of humor and plenty of anecdotes.
The tour runs for 75 minutes and is recommended for ages 7 and up.
Things to See & Do
Buy your tickets and head to Doc Maynard's Public House, a restored saloon from the 1890s, for the start of the tour. Tour schedules vary depending on the month. Check their website for an updated list.
Get a to know a little more about Bill Speidel, the man who founded the Underground Tour in 1954. Grab a copy of Sons of the Profits, a book written by Bill based on the history of the Pioneer Square tour.
Get a souvenir of your Underground Tour experience at the Rogues Gallery.
Order snacks and refreshments at the Underground Cafe or get a tour-and-lunch combo.
If you still have the time for a walking tour of Pioneer Square at night, don't miss the Underworld Tour meant only for adults ages 21 and up.
Seattle Underground Insider Tips
- It is best take the morning tours if you are bringing kids. The place can get dark towards late afternoon.
- The tour is best enjoyed with a small group of people. If you are going there with a group, you might want to consider getting a private tour instead to avoid going in with 20 or more persons.
- Listen carefully to the tour guide as they dish out interesting insider secrets about Seattle's history. This is a great tour for history lovers.
- Bring drinks but make sure to empty your bladder before starting with the tour. You can only do restroom breaks after the 75-minute tour.
- If anyone in the family has respiratory issues or has trouble walking through narrow passageways and stairs, it might be best to skip the tour and stay above ground.
