Seattle is known for its endless amounts of things to do, see, and experience. It is a vibrant city with so many attractions and neighborhoods that it can be hard to know where to start your exploration.
From the iconic Space Needle to the fascinating Museum of Pop Culture to the bustling Pike Place Market, there’s no shortage of attractions to explore. One great way to take in all that Seattle has to offer is sightseeing tours, walking tours, and hopping on a bus tour. And what better way to see all the sights than by taking a bus tour?
These guided tours give you an overview of the city and allow you to hop on and off at different stops to explore each area further. Here are the best bus tours in Seattle, Washington, along with some tips to help you make the most of your experience.
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Where is Seattle, Washington and What Is It Famous For?
Seattle is a major city in the state of Washington. It is located in the northwestern part of the United States and is the largest city in the state.
Seattle is a seaport city, and it is also the seat of King County. The city has a population of over 3 million people and is the 15th largest city in the country.
Seattle is known for its rainy weather and is also home to the Space Needle, a famous landmark. The city is also home to Amazon, Microsoft, Starbucks, and Nordstrom. Seattle is a popular tourist destination, and it is also a major hub for business and commerce.
Famous Tourist Destinations In Seattle Washington
Seattle is a beautiful city with plenty of famous tourist destinations and popular attractions to keep you busy. And are worth visiting. Some of these include:
Space Needle
The Space Needle is a famous observation tower and landmark that provides breathtaking views of Seattle’s cityscape and local landscape. It dominates the skyline and is a must-see attraction at 605 feet tall. Guests can take the elevator to the top of the tower for spectacular views or dine at the SkyCity restaurant.
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Mount Rainier
Mount Rainier is a majestic peak visible from Seattle on clear days. It’s a popular hiking, camping, hiking, and skiing location. Visitors can explore the mountain’s glaciers and alpine meadows, surrounded by lush woods and wildflowers.
Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is a historic market that dates back to 1907. It’s a hive of activity, with vendors offering fresh fruits and vegetables, seafood, crafts, and souvenirs.
Tourists can watch fishmongers throw fish and have coffee at the original Starbucks location. You can explore the market on a group or self-guided walking tour.
Seattle Great Wheel
It is a Ferris wheel on Pier 57 in Seattle. It provides panoramic views of the city and the shoreline. t is a popular spot for photography, as the views from the top are truly stunning.
Seattle Great Wheel is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Seattle. It offers a unique and memorable way to see the city from a new perspective, and the views will take your breath away.
Kerry Park
Kerry Park is a public park with stunning views of the city skyline. It’s a great place to watch the sunset or take city photos.
The park is relatively small but is a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike who come to take pictures of the iconic Seattle city skyline. You can relax on benches or picnic tables while enjoying the breathtaking views.
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Chihuly Garden and Glass
The Chihuly Garden and Glass display features Dale Chihuly’s glass art. The exhibition includes a gorgeous glasshouse and garden, as well as a variety of colorful glass sculptures. The exhibit is located near the Space Needle base and housed in a magnificent glass and steel building.
Pioneer Square Historic District
It is a historic neighborhood with cobblestone streets and unique shops. Visitors to Pioneer Square can take a stroll through the neighborhood’s tree-lined streets and admire the beautiful architecture of the buildings. Many buildings have been converted into shops, restaurants, and art galleries, making Pioneer Square a popular shopping destination.
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Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
If you’re a pop culture fan, the Museum of Pop Culture is the best spot to explore. It is a museum that celebrates pop culture and music. It features exhibits on everything from music and film to video games and science fiction.
Fremont Troll
The Fremont Troll is a famous public art sculpture not to check out in Seattle. It is located under a bridge in the Fremont neighborhood.
It’s a popular spot for photos and a unique piece of Seattle’s public art scene. Remember to snap a few pictures with the sculpture when you’re in town.
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Best Bus Tours in Seattle, Washington
Bus tours are a great way to see the sights and learn about the history of a city. Seattle has many different bus tours, so you’re sure to find one perfect for you. Here are 12 of the best bus tours in Seattle:
#1 Premier 3-Hour Seattle City Tour
The first bus tour to take in Seattle is the Premier 3-hour Seattle city tour. This tour takes you through the city’s heart and offers breathtaking views of Seattle’s skyline. On a mini coach bus ride, this small group tour, you’ll see numerous green spaces and famous landmarks such as Pike Place Market, Space Needle, and Pioneer Square.
#2 City Sightseeing Seattle Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
If you prefer the flexibility of exploring at your own pace, this hop-on hop-off bus tour is perfect. With multiple stops throughout the city, you can get off any time to explore a particular attraction and then hop back on the bus when ready.
You can take a 1-day or 2-day ticket for this bus tour. You’ll see Space Needle Loop, Bell Street at Pier 66, Historic Chinatown Gate, Pike Place Market, Paramount Theatre, and more.
#3 3 Hour Seattle City Tour
For more bus tours, this 3-hour city tour will entertain you. This tour is perfect for those who want to see the highlights of Seattle city but need more time.
This tour passes by the Pike Place Market and the scenic Olympic Mountains Range. You’ll see Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square, Space Needle, and much more in just three hours.
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#4 Mt. Rainier Day Tour from Seattle
For nature lovers, this tour is a must. You’ll get to explore the stunning Mt. Rainier National Park and see incredible views of the mountain and its surroundings.
The tourist starts from downtown Seattle which has four complimentary pickup convenient stops in the city. The tour will take you to Mt. Rainier National Park, Christine Falls, and Narada Falls.
#5 3-Hour Seattle City Tour
This Seattle city tour offers a comprehensive look at the city, including a visit to the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. The tour allows you to see the famous Ballard Locks, a popular attraction that will enable boats to travel between Lake Washington and Puget Sound.
#6 Half-Day Guided Tour of Seattle City and Snoqualmie Falls
Aside from a city tour join a tour that also checks out the beauty of nature. This half-day tour takes you to the beautiful Snoqualmie Falls and the city’s top attractions like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. There are many things you can do on this tour, from looking at the beauty of Snoqualmie Falls, you can also admire the beauty of Seattle from Kerry park and checking out the Ballard Locks.
#7 Seattle 4-Hour City Tour
Don’t want a 3-hour tour? You can book a 4-hour tour instead. This tour offers an in-depth look at Seattle’s history, culture, and architecture.
You’ll visit landmarks like Pioneer Square, the Space Needle, and the International District. The tour offers a personal guide with a fully narrated tour that adds to a memorable and educational tour in Seattle.
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#8 Must-See Seattle: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
This hop-on hop-off tour is perfect for those who want to see all of Seattle’s must-see attractions, including the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and Chihuly Garden and Glass museum. When you book this bus tour, you’ll get access to 14 different stops across Seattle. The tour has an open-top deck to fully immersed in the city’s view.
#9 Seattle: 3-Hour City Highlights Tour
This minibus tour focuses on the city’s top attractions, including the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, the neighborhood of Fremont, and Pioneer Square. The city highlights tour offers tourists a sightseeing experience for the top sights of Seattle with photo opportunities.
#10 Seattle: 3-Hour City Tour by Bus
This tour offers a comprehensive look at Seattle’s history, landmarks, and more. You’ll visit attractions like the Space Needle, the Seattle Center, and the University of Washington. The tours provide an opportunity for you to get an overview of the city as well as its top attractions on a comfortable minibus ride.
#11 From Seattle: Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting
If you’re looking for a tour in and outside Seattle, this tour is for you. The tour takes you to the beautiful Snoqualmie Falls and a local winery for a tasting. Among the opportunities you can enjoy on this tour is visiting three wineries and exploring trails along the Snoqualmie Falls.
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#12 Seattle: Terrors and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour
For a spooky adventure in Seattle, the Terrors and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour will entertain you. This tour is perfect for those who love a good scare. You’ll visit some of Seattle’s most haunted locations and hear spine-tingling stories from a knowledgeable guide.
#13 Downtown Seattle Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour
You can explore Seattle on this hop-on, hop-off tour. On this tour can enjoy a fun trolley transportation experience while exploring Seattle’s famous attractions like the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass Exhibit, Pike Place Market, and more.
Important Tips
Factors To Consider While Taking A Seattle Washington Bus Tour
If you’re considering taking a bus tour of Seattle, Washington, there are a few factors you’ll need to consider to have the best experience possible. First and foremost, you’ll need to decide what type of tour you’re interested in.
Are you looking for a historical tour of the city, or would you prefer a more general overview? There are also tours specifically focused on the food and drink scene in Seattle and those that highlight the city’s art and culture.
Once you’ve decided on the type of tour you’re interested in, you’ll need to choose a reputable company. Many tour operators in Seattle, so read reviews and compare pricing before deciding.
Finally, book your tour in advance – especially if you’re visiting during peak tourist season. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your bus tour of Seattle is an enjoyable and informative experience.
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How Much Does A Seattle Washington Bus Tour Typically Cost?
A Seattle bus tour typically costs around $45 per person. However, the exact price will depend on the company you book with and the tour length. For example, some companies offer half-day tours while others offer full-day tours.
You can also find discounts by booking in advance or searching for group rates. Regardless of how much you spend, a bus tour is a great way to see the city and learn more about its history and culture.
Find Discounted Seattle City Hop on Hop Off Bus Tours Tickets
There are several ways to find discounted hop on hop off bus tour tickets in Seattle. You can start by checking travel deal websites like GetYourGuide or Viator. You can also check the official website of the tour provider and look for any ongoing promotions or discounts.
Book Seattle CityPASS?
To book a Seattle City Pass, you can visit the official website of CityPASS and select the Seattle CityPass option. It is not hard and can be done if a few easy steps. Follow the steps provided, which include selecting the number of passes needed, making the payment, and receiving a confirmation email with your ticket.
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