Pioneer Square is a must-visit for Seattle tourists. This historic downtown that is full of character and charm. The best way is to wander around on foot: check out stores and people, grab a bite or coffee occasionally. Try to schedule 10am to 3pm so that you can do a lazy lunch.
Begin at the corner of 1st Ave and Jackson and go east (away from the water) and check out the stores/galleries on Jackson. Proceed to 2nd Ave and check out Klondike Gold Rush Museum. This place is actually in a historical building and is a National Museum. Admission is free and it is worth about 20 minutes (but not more). Turn left at 2nd and find Waterfall Park at Main and 2nd. This is actually the birthplace of UPS. When you exit the Waterfall park, keep going on Main and you will find the Occidental Park. Those big totems are Seattle classics. The other side of Main has many interesting stores too.
This is probably time for break. If you are in the mood of coffee, go to Cafe Umbria near Jackson. If you want a snack, do Grand Central Cafe (behind an arch steel door). If you fancy something different, go New Orleans Creole. Il Terrazzo is a high-end Italian restaurant that you won’t regret the money.
After the meal, stroll to the corner of 1st and Yesler. There is no one location designated to be Pioneer Square. But if there was one, this will be it. Don’t miss the the steel terrace and street lights. They are antiques. There are also Chief Seattle’s bust and another totem. If you are in the mood, take the Seattle Underground Tour, a bit pricy but also entertaining.
Now go west and check out Seattle’s waterfront along Alaskan Way. There are many eateries. Elliott’s Oyster Bar will be a sure winner.