If you’re visiting Seattle and want to explore the city’s buried past, you’ve likely come across two popular options: Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour and Beneath the Streets. Both take you beneath Pioneer Square, where remnants of the original Seattle streets still exist. But which tour gives you the best experience?
Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the best Seattle underground tour for your trip.
1. Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour: The Original Experience
What It Offers
This is the tour that started it all. Operating since 1965, Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour takes you through three underground blocks while offering a humorous take on Seattle’s early history.
Highlights
- 75-minute guided tour
- Focuses on the Great Seattle Fire and the rebuilding that led to the creation of underground streets
- Known for fun, theatrical storytelling
- Includes the famous purple glass skylights from underneath
Best For
Travelers who want a classic, funny, and lively introduction to Seattle’s buried past.
2. Beneath the Streets: A Smaller, Focused Tour
What It Offers
Started by former guides of Bill Speidel’s tour, Beneath the Streets covers a different set of tunnels and aims for a more focused, educational experience with smaller groups.
Highlights
- One-hour tour with small groups
- More architectural and historical focus
- Offers niche tours like the Red Light District Tour and Queer History Tour
Best For
Visitors looking for a less touristy, more informative and intimate experience with specialized themes.
3. Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Bill Speidel’s Tour | Beneath the Streets |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 75 minutes | 60 minutes |
| Group Size | Large | Small |
| Style | Entertaining, humorous | Educational, low-key |
| Notable Features | Skylight views, comedy | Niche tours, small groups |
| Location | Pioneer Square | Pioneer Square (different tunnels) |
Which Tour Is Better?
It depends on what kind of experience you want:
- Choose Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour if you want a fun, classic tour that’s great for first-time visitors and families.
- Opt for Beneath the Streets if you prefer a quieter, more in-depth look at Seattle’s underground, or if you’re interested in specific historical themes.
Final Thoughts
Seattle’s underground tours are a must-do for anyone interested in the city’s quirky, gritty history. Whether you go with Bill Speidel’s legendary version or the more intimate Beneath the Streets, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the layers beneath the modern skyline.
