Downtown Seattle Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour

What your day looks like

Your walking tour of Seattle begins at the breathtaking Seattle Aquarium. 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, the 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 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. But that’s not all! 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!