City Sightseeing Seattle HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras

Explore Seattle with the City Sightseeing HOHO Bus Tour and Bookable Extras

The City Sightseeing Seattle HOHO Bus Tour offers a flexible way to explore Seattle’s top attractions for $59 per person. With approximately 80 minutes of ride time, this hop-on hop-off service allows visitors to create their own itinerary, hopping off at key sights such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and Seattle Central Library. The ticket is valid for either 24 or 48 hours, giving ample opportunity to discover the city at your own pace.

One of the standout features is the option to include entry to the Sky View Observatory, which provides panoramic views from 275 meters high—the highest observation deck west of the Mississippi. The audio guide in English enhances the experience by delivering interesting facts about each landmark. However, the tour’s popularity is mixed, with some reviews mentioning long waits and difficulty finding stops, so careful planning helps.

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of Seattle’s urban landscape, especially those interested in accessing major landmarks easily. It skips hotel pick-up and drop-off, so travelers should be ready to reach the designated stops on foot or via public transportation. The scenic route, combined with self-guided walking tours, offers a practical way to see the city without the need for a private guide.

Key Points

• Flexible 24 or 48-hour ticket for hop-on hop-off sightseeing
• Includes audio guide in English and self-guided walking tour
• Stops at major sights like Space Needle and Pike Place Market
• Optional entry to Sky View Observatory for citywide panoramic views
• Scenic bus routes with stops near all the main attractions
• No hotel pick-up or drop-off, so plan how to reach stops in advance

Starting from the Space Needle at 8 Broad St

The tour begins at 8 Broad St, right at the iconic Space Needle and Seattle Center. This makes it an ideal starting point for visitors eager to explore the city’s most famous landmark and its surrounding attractions. From here, the route takes you past FRS Clippers, Edgewater Hotel, and Pier 66 Cruise Terminal, offering a glimpse of Seattle’s waterfront and maritime activity.

The initial stops set the tone for a tour emphasizing iconic Seattle sights, with plenty of opportunities to hop off and explore at each location. The SeaView Observatory near the Seattle Sky View offers a chance to take in the panoramic cityscape from a stunning height, available only if the appropriate ticket is purchased.

Visiting the Space Needle and Seattle Center

The Space Needle is the most recognizable landmark in Seattle, and this tour includes a stop right beside it. Visitors can choose to disembark and explore or simply admire the structure from the bus. The route continues through the Seattle Center, home to museums, theaters, and parks. The audio guide provides background details on the site’s history and architecture, enhancing the experience without needing a guided tour.

While the Sky View Observatory is an optional add-on, its location at 603 South Main St is a highlight for those wanting breathtaking city views. It operates only on weekends (Friday to Sunday) and offers a 45 to 90-minute visit window. Keep in mind, luggage and large bags are not permitted in the observatory, but strollers are allowed.

Discovering the Historic Pike Place Market

A key highlight of this tour is the Pike Place Market stop at 97 Pike St, which is famed for its fresh seafood, local produce, and unique vendors. Visitors have the opportunity to hop off and roam around this lively market, famous for the fishmongers tossing fish and the original Starbucks at 1913 Pike Place.

The market’s vibrant atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to take photos, buy souvenirs, or grab a quick snack. The self-guided walking tour supplements the bus experience, guiding visitors through the colourful history of the district via their smartphone.

Visiting the Seattle Art Museum and Amazon Spheres

The Seattle Art Museum at 1300 1st Ave offers a cultural stop where visitors can look at diverse collections of regional and international art. The Amazon Spheres located at 2111 7th Ave are also on the route, providing an opportunity for self-guided exploration of the innovative workspace and botanical domes.

These attractions are easily accessible via the central stops on the route, allowing travelers to hop off and explore at their convenience. Both sites are close to other downtown landmarks, making it simple to combine visits in one trip.

Navigating the Route to Iconic Landmarks

Other notable stops include Pier 55 & Argosy Cruises, Pioneer & Occidental Square, and the Chinatown Gate at 514 S King St. These locations showcase Seattle’s historic districts and multicultural heritage. The Panama Hotel & Tea House at 603 South Main St offers a glimpse into the city’s Asian-American history.

The route’s design ensures visitors can see both waterfront attractions and city neighborhoods. However, some reviews note difficulty locating stops, emphasizing the importance of early arrival and careful planning.

The Scenic Bus Ride and Guide Commentary

The scenic panoramic bus tour runs at 10:30am and 2pm, lasting around 3 hours. While this is not a hop-on hop-off, there are designated photo stops where passengers can disembark briefly. The live guide provides commentary, although some reviews mention that the guide’s speech can be long-winded or lacking pauses, making it harder to ask questions or engage fully.

The bus itself is described as comfortable, with plenty of seating. Despite this, traffic congestion, especially on weekends, can cause longer wait times and delays. Visitors should be prepared for potentially heavy traffic and longer intervals between stops.

The Self-Guided Walking Tour and Food Discounts

Included with all tickets is a self-guided walking tour of Pioneer Square. Participants are instructed on how to download an offline audio guide, which walks through Seattle’s early history and architectural highlights. The walk covers 1.1 miles and uses images to enrich the experience.

The food and beverage discount at Pike Brewery offers 10% off, making it a practical addition for those looking to sample local brews after exploring Pike Place Market.

Pros and Cons Based on Customer Feedback

While many praise the ease of access to major sights and the friendly bus drivers, some reviews highlight signage issues, long wait times, and bus condition problems, such as stinky or rundown buses. The accuracy of schedules is also questioned, with reports of waits up to 60 minutes and confusion over stop locations.

The Sky View Observatory is appreciated as a worthy add-on for spectacular city views, but operates only on weekends, so plan accordingly. The tour offers a practical overview of Seattle’s attractions, but timing and route clarity can be improved.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This hop-on hop-off tour works well for first-time visitors wanting an overview of key landmarks with the flexibility to explore independently. It’s ideal for short stays or families seeking a convenient way to see many sights without a lot of walking.

However, those who value punctuality and clear signage should be prepared for some disorganization. The Scenic Tour option is perfect for those interested in city panoramas and photo opportunities, while the self-guided walking tour complements the bus experience well.

Final Thoughts on the City Sightseeing Seattle HOHO Bus Tour

The $59 ticket delivers a broad overview of Seattle’s major sights with flexible hop-on hop-off access. The highlight is the option to visit the Sky View Observatory for spectacular views, which adds value if you choose the appropriate ticket.

Nevertheless, review feedback suggests that signage and schedule reliability are areas for improvement. The bus’s condition and traffic delays can be frustrating, especially during busy times.

This tour is best suited for visitors who prioritize convenience and seeing the main attractions in a short amount of time. For those seeking a smoother experience, additional planning and patience are recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ticket valid for 24 or 48 hours?
Yes, the hop-on hop-off ticket can be used for either 24 or 48 hours, providing flexibility depending on your travel plans.

Does the tour include access to the Sky View Observatory?
Only if you select the appropriate ticket, which includes entry to the observatory. It’s open Friday to Sunday and requires advance planning.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price. However, there is a 10% discount at Pike Brewery.

Can I join the tour with a large bag or stroller?
Large bags and luggage cannot be taken into the Sky View Observatory, but strollers are permitted.

What is the duration of the bus ride?
The scenic tour lasts approximately 3 hours, while the hop-on hop-off buses operate every 30 minutes, with each ride about 80 minutes.

Are the buses accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but accessibility details are not explicitly provided. Prams and strollers are allowed in the observatory.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it offers family-friendly stops and allows for independent exploration at major attractions.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, confirmation is received upon booking, and tickets are valid for 12 months from purchase.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start date for a full refund.