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Hidden Tunnels Beneath Seattle

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by Bessie Fairley

hidden-tunnels-beneath-seattle

Did you know there are hidden tunnels beneath Seattle? These underground passages hold secrets from the past, offering a glimpse into a time when the city looked very different. Originally built in the late 19th century, these tunnels were part of the original street level before the Great Seattle Fire of 1889. After the fire, the city decided to rebuild on top of the old streets, leaving behind a network of underground pathways. Today, you can take a tour of these tunnels and learn about Seattle's history, from its early days to its transformation into the bustling metropolis it is now. Ready to step back in time?

Discovering Seattle's Underground

Seattle's hidden tunnels offer a fascinating glimpse into the city's past. Beneath the bustling streets lies a network of passageways that tell stories of old Seattle. Let's explore some of these intriguing spots.

The Famous Seattle Underground Tour

The Seattle Underground Tour is a popular way to experience the city's hidden history. This guided tour takes visitors through subterranean pathways that were once the main streets of Seattle.

  1. Pioneer Square: This historic district is where the tour begins. Visitors descend below street level to explore the original sidewalks and storefronts from the late 1800s.
  2. Doc Maynard's Public House: Named after one of Seattle's founding fathers, this underground bar offers a glimpse into the city's early social life.
  3. The Bank Vault: An old bank vault, now part of the tour, showcases the city's financial history and the importance of banking in Seattle's development.

Hidden Gems in the Underground

Beyond the well-known tour, there are other lesser-known tunnels and hidden spots beneath Seattle. These places offer unique insights into the city's past.

  1. The Seattle Steam Tunnels: These tunnels, used for heating buildings, stretch beneath downtown Seattle. They provide a behind-the-scenes look at the city's infrastructure.
  2. The Chinatown-International District Tunnels: These tunnels were used by Chinese immigrants in the early 20th century. They offer a glimpse into the lives of Seattle's early immigrant communities.
  3. The Old Seattle Police Department Tunnels: These tunnels, once used by the police, are now abandoned. They offer a spooky and intriguing look at the city's law enforcement history.

Modern Uses of the Tunnels

Some of Seattle's underground spaces have been repurposed for modern use. These places blend the old with the new, creating unique experiences for visitors.

  1. The Underground Art Gallery: This gallery, located in a repurposed tunnel, showcases contemporary art in a historic setting.
  2. The Underground Music Venue: This venue hosts live music events in an atmospheric underground space, offering a unique experience for music lovers.
  3. The Underground Market: This market, located in a series of connected tunnels, features local vendors and artisans selling their goods.

Exploring on Your Own

For those who prefer to explore independently, there are a few spots where you can catch a glimpse of Seattle's underground without a guide.

  1. The Smith Tower Basement: The basement of this historic skyscraper offers a peek into the city's past with its old machinery and artifacts.
  2. The Central Library's Underground Levels: Seattle's Central Library has several underground levels that are open to the public, offering a modern take on the city's subterranean spaces.
  3. The Pike Place Market Tunnels: These tunnels, located beneath the famous market, offer a unique shopping experience with a touch of history.

Discovering Seattle's Hidden Tunnels

Seattle's hidden tunnels offer a fascinating glimpse into the city's past. These underground passages, once bustling with activity, now serve as a unique attraction for history buffs and curious explorers. Walking through these tunnels, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, from the early settlers to the bustling businesses that once thrived above.

Exploring these tunnels isn't just about history; it's also about adventure. Each twist and turn reveals something new, whether it's an old storefront or a piece of forgotten machinery. It's a reminder of how much the city has changed and how much has stayed the same.

If you're planning a trip to Seattle, make sure to add these hidden tunnels to your itinerary. They offer a unique perspective on the city that you won't find anywhere else. Happy exploring!