Pioneer Square, Seattle

Favorite thing: You can find many totem poles in the Pioneer Square district, but not as many compared to what you'll find up in British Columbia. The totem poles are part of the Pioneer Square's history, a lot of influence from the natives who inhabitated the Pacific Northwest a long time ago. A great sight to see; great photo opportunities here.

Favorite thing: The real touristy thing I did here was the Underground Tour.
Seattle was originaly about 12 feet lower than it is now. The town committy decided to raise the ground level mainly because of new emerging plumming technology that was causing problems for its' residents. After a city wide fire, the town decided that this would be the optimal time to establish their program of elevating the city. Of course some either didn't believe their threats or couldn't wait to rebuild so they did anyway, and the first floor of the buildings are now underground. It is a good little tour and I believe it lasted about an hour and a half, and was about ten dollars for Adults and six dollars for Students with ID (By the way if you are in College/University bring your ID all throughout Seattle there are deals for us).

Oh the tour ends in an Underground souveignier shop, although some of the more 'Antiqued' Items are nice you may want to take a run for the stairs quickly. :-)

Favorite thing: I really loved this city and wished ZI had planned to spend mor time here. The history of the underground just blew me away. Where else in the world would the future of a city depend on the flush toilet. The value of this tour is great and it was so interesting.

Favorite thing: Since this city is one of the most beautiful in the USA its hard to pick a single place to see. I guess, if one likes the city scene Pioneer Place in the downtown area is the oldest and has the most character. As for the nature lovers there are many city, state and national parks in the area. Each has its own appeal and beauty, they are all worth visiting.

Fondest memory: Since this is my hometown I miss it each time I'm away but I guess, the most I miss Seattlelites. People that live here are polite, friendly.

Favorite thing: See the Underground City. It's amazing. Dusty and old but amazing. Back in the early 1900's the city tried to regrade some of the hills and accidentally buried the first floor of most of the buildings downtown. It's a long story but it ends with a tour through the now-unusued underbelly of the city. Learn the history of the regrade and see the first floor... all underground!

Fondest memory: Ivar's Acres of Clams. Ivar Haglund was a soft-hearted fellow who was quite influental on Seattle in his own way. Check out his original restaurant on Pier... 81, I believe is where it is. Great food and an excellent view of Puget Sound from the windows. Please feed the birds!

Fondest memory: Merchants Cafe is Seattle's oldest restaurant. Located in Pioneer Square, it is a pub founded in 1890. Address: 109 Yesler Way.

Favorite thing: A great place for a pre match lunch and a drink with the lads.

Some good shops to browse around in too.