Pioneer Square

Explore

This colorful neighborhood’s dynamic history comes alive on engaging walks with Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour, which pass through hidden tunnels and subterranean remnants of Seattle’s original downtown. Up above, Smith Tower stands tall as the city’s original skyscraper, with its dramatic 35th-floor observation deck. Waterfall Garden Park offers a quiet escape with its 22-foot manmade waterfall and Pioneer Square Habitat Beach delivers a dose of serenity with open views of Elliott Bay. Or opt for high-energy fun at Flatstick Pub, with indoor mini golf and other diversions.

Eat and Drink

At the new Populus Seattle hotel, sip cocktails at the hip rooftop Firn Bar and settle in for a meal of hearth-inspired open-flame and smoked contemporary fare at rustic-chic Salt Harvest Restaurant (populusseattle.com). Nearby Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar keeps things classic with ultra-fresh local oysters and shellfish served in a cozy, brick-walled space, and Il Terrazzo Carmine presents an old-world take on Northern Italian cuisine, with white tablecloths and refined service. Set to open inside the iconic Smith Tower soon, Moto Pizza serves delicious Filipino-influenced, Detroit-style pies. Damn the Weather combines candlelit charm with thoughtful cocktails and elevated comfort food, and 4 Diamonds has fast become a go-to for savory Vietnamese dishes. 13 Coins delivers retro appeal with plush booths and a menu that runs from breakfast classics to late-night steaks. Mirabelle by Orphée channels Parisian café vibes with artful French pastries and baguette and croissant sandwiches, while Bottega Gabriele is a homey deli and café serving up authentic Italian sandwiches and imported goods. For exceptional sips, The Dandy at King Street Crossing features soaring ceilings and a plush bar where guests linger over elegant nibbles and glasses of champagne, and Parlour focuses on carefully chosen natural wines, often highlighting lesser-known European regions, plus craft beer and coffee.

Shop

Since 1977, Magic Mouse Toys has delighted customers with science toys, art projects, hand puppets, and playful dolls. Search the racks for old-school fashion treasures and unique accessories at The Lemon Grove, and score great deals on eco-sustainable knitwear, tools, and fiber at the Yarn Dragon factory store. Terrific indie booksellers in the neighborhood include Arundel Books and Open Books: A Poem Emporium.