Bill Speidel's Underground Tour 614 1st Ave Seattle Wa 98104
Seattle, Washington is known for many things - its gorgeous views of the Puget Sound, great coffee, and of course, the Space Needle. However, there's one attraction that many visitors may not know about, but is definitely worth checking out: Bill Speidel's Underground Tour.
What Is Bill Speidel's Underground Tour?
Bill Speidel's Underground Tour is a unique walking tour that takes visitors on a journey beneath the streets of Seattle. The tour was founded by the late Bill Speidel, a journalist and historian who was passionate about preserving the history of Seattle's early days.
The tour begins at Doc Maynard's Public House, which was once the site of Seattle's first saloon. From there, visitors are led through a network of underground passages and alleys that were once the main streets of old Seattle. The passages were built in the mid-1800s, but were eventually abandoned and left to decay. Today, the passages are a fascinating glimpse into Seattle's past.
What Will You See on the Tour?
As you make your way through the passages, your guide will share stories and anecdotes about Seattle's early pioneers, including Doc Maynard himself. You'll see remnants of the old storefronts and buildings that once lined the streets above, including old signs, advertisements, and even a bank vault.
One of the most interesting features of the tour is the "skylights" that allow natural light to filter down into the underground passages. These skylights were once the sidewalks of old Seattle, but were raised up after the Great Seattle Fire of 1889 destroyed much of the city's downtown area. Today, they offer a unique view into the past.
How Long Is the Tour?
The tour takes about 75 minutes to complete and covers a distance of approximately three blocks. It's a relatively easy walk, but visitors should be prepared to navigate uneven surfaces and occasional low ceilings in some sections of the passages.
When Is the Best Time to Take the Tour?
Bill Speidel's Underground Tour runs year-round, but the hours of operation vary depending on the season. During the summer months (May through September), tours run every 15 minutes from 9am to 7pm. From October through April, tours run every 30 minutes from 10am to 5pm.
It's a good idea to purchase tickets in advance, as tours can sell out quickly during peak tourist season. Tickets can be purchased online or in person at the tour starting point at Doc Maynard's Public House.
Conclusion
Bill Speidel's Underground Tour is a fascinating and unique look into Seattle's early history. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for something different to do during your visit to Seattle, this tour is definitely worth checking out. So, grab your walking shoes and prepare to journey back in time to the days of old Seattle.
