But the first block from the waterfront is almost straight uphill. Pike Place Market sits about five blocks in width on a cliff overlooking the waterfront. It's a tough climb up steps and a fairly-steep drive by car up the slope. Not only does the popular market offer fresh fish, meats and vegetables, but wares of every kind in a series of shops and restaurants along 1st Avenue. On the south edge of downtown lies Pioneer Square, the original settlement of the city that was occupied in 1852 and incorporated in 1869.
Underground tours are available to see some of the old original city streets.
Above ground is old enough, however. Earlyday street lights, stores and restaurants help take tourists into yesteryear. I found the Elliott Bay Book Shop, with its high ceilings and cluttered shelves, particularly fascinating. The waterfront docks and ferry boat piers are interspersed with shops, restaurants and entertainment. The Omnidome highlights the Mt. St. Helens volcano story as well as an underwater visit to the Sound.