City Sightseeing Seattle HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras

If you’re considering seeing Seattle from a comfortable, flexible vantage point without breaking the bank, the City Sightseeing Seattle HOHO Bus Tour might catch your eye. This tour promises to let you create your own adventure — hopping off at major sights like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and even the Amazon Spheres, all with the convenience of an audio guide and optional extras like the Sky View Observatory.

What we like about this experience is the freedom it offers. You can tailor your day, spending more time at the sights that excite you most, and it’s all accessible from easily located stops near major attractions. Plus, the Sky View Observatory, included if you choose the right ticket, offers a spectacular way to get a bird’s-eye view of the city from 275 meters high. A definite highlight that combines the fun of sightseeing with a breathtaking perspective.

However, a word of caution: reviews suggest that this tour isn’t always as smooth as one might hope. Long waits, confusing signage, and some buses that aren’t in top shape have been noted by travelers. For those who value punctuality and comfort, it’s worth weighing whether this tour fits your expectations. Still, if you’re after a flexible, relatively inexpensive way to get a broad sense of Seattle, this hop-on hop-off route might suit you, especially if you’re happy to tolerate a few quirks.

This experience works best for travelers who want to see a lot in a short time, prefer a self-paced approach, and enjoy hearing about the city’s highlights from an onboard guide. It’s also suitable for those with limited mobility, as stops are conveniently near key sights, and the option to explore at your own pace can make a difference.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Create your own itinerary; hop off at attractions that interest you most.
• Views & Extras: The Sky View Observatory offers a high-altitude look at the city (if your ticket includes it).
• Audio Guide: Provides background and history, enriching your sightseeing experience.
• Stops Near Major Sights: Convenient locations like Pike Place, Space Needle, and Amazon Spheres.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers experienced long waits and confusing signage, so manage expectations.
• Cost & Value: Priced at $59 per person, it offers a reasonable way to see many sights, but some reviews question the condition and timing reliability of buses.

The Itinerary in Detail

The route covers some of Seattle’s most famous attractions and neighborhoods, with stops roughly every 30 minutes, making it easy to plan your day. Here’s what you’ll encounter:

Space Needle & Seattle Center

Starting at the iconic Space Needle, this stop is perfect for snapping photos or visiting the observation deck if you’ve booked the Sky View Observatory upgrade. We loved the way the tour begins with a landmark that sets the tone for the whole city—futuristic and fun.

FRS Clippers & Edgewater Hotel

These downtown stops highlight Seattle’s maritime roots and its historic hotels. The Edgewater Hotel, frequented by celebrities, offers a glimpse into the city’s luxurious past and present. However, some reviewers mentioned difficulty in locating stops, so paying close attention to signage is advised.

Pier 66 & Pier 55

These piers are hubs of activity, with cruise terminals, restaurants, and Argosy Cruises. You can hop off here for a waterfront stroll or to catch a boat trip, making this a versatile stop.

Pioneer Square & Chinatown

Rich in character, Pioneer Square offers a chance to explore Seattle’s founding days, while Chinatown features a historic gate and the Panama Hotel & Tea House. These areas are compact but packed with stories that you might find fascinating.

Seattle Sky View Observatory

This is the star attraction if your ticket includes it. Open only on weekends, it provides panoramic city views from the highest observation deck west of the Mississippi. Some reviewers have remarked on the great vistas and the opportunity to decide what to explore next from above.

Public Library & Convention Center

These stops bring you into the heart of downtown, with modern architecture and cultural venues. The Seattle Central Library is a favorite for architecture buffs and offers a quiet moment amid the bustling city.

Pike Place Market & Original Starbucks

No visit to Seattle is complete without exploring Pike Place Market. You’ll love seeing the fishmongers toss seafood, browsing artisan stalls, and visiting the legendary Original Starbucks. Reviews have mixed feelings about signage here, so keep an eye out.

Art & Shopping

Stops near the Seattle Art Museum and Amazon Spheres give a taste of local culture and innovation. The Spheres are particularly photogenic, and many travelers enjoy the glimpse of modern Seattle’s business hub.

What to Expect on the Bus

The buses run approximately every 30 minutes, starting at 10 am with the last departure at 4 pm, giving you plenty of options to fit your schedule. The duration of the full loop is around 80 minutes, but with hop-on hop-off flexibility, you can spend as much or as little time at each stop.

However, some reviews have pointed out that buses aren’t always punctual, with wait times extending up to 60 minutes at some stops. The condition of the buses also varies — while some are comfortable and clean, others are described as “stinky” and run-down. If you’re sensitive to comfort, this is worth considering.

The onboard audio guide in English is informative, though a few reviewers felt it could use an update or pauses for questions. Still, most appreciated the background information, which added context to the sights as they passed by.

The Sky View Observatory

This optional extra is a highlight for many visitors. Open Friday through Sunday, it offers 275-meter-high views of the city and beyond. Be aware there are no lockers or storage for large bags, but strollers are allowed, and service animals are welcome.

Self-Guided Walking Tour & Discount at Pike Brewing

Included in your ticket is access to a self-guided walking tour through historic districts, plus a 10% discount at Pike Brewery. The tour uses an app that you download onto your phone, with images of historical objects, making for a fun, interactive experience.

Additional Considerations

• The tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan how to get to the stops.
• Food and drinks are not included, but many stops let you explore local eateries, especially around Pike Place Market.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility issues, given the stops’ proximity to major sights.

The Real Traveler Experience

From reviews, it’s clear that the most praised aspects are the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views from Sky View Observatory. Many travelers appreciate the flexibility to hop on and off, making it a good way to combine sightseeing with spontaneous explorations.

However, some reviews point out real frustrations, such as long waits and poor signage, which can diminish the experience. A few travelers found the buses in poor condition, which can be distracting or uncomfortable. Still, several mention friendly drivers and a generally positive attitude among staff.

The value for $59 is decent if you’re looking for a broad overview of Seattle, especially if you use the included extras thoughtfully. But if punctuality and comfort rank high on your list, you might prefer other ways of exploring.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a flexible, budget-friendly way to see multiple sights in a single day. If you’re okay with potential delays and rougher buses, it offers a rundown with the convenience of hop-on hop-off access.

It’s perfect for first-timers who want to get their bearings or those with limited time in Seattle. The inclusion of the Sky View Observatory adds a memorable element, especially if you’re interested in panoramic city views.

Active explorers who enjoy self-guided walking tours and delving into local neighborhoods will find this a useful starting point. But if your priority is a smooth, luxury experience or punctual service, you might want to consider other options.

FAQs about the City Sightseeing Seattle HOHO Bus Tour

Does the tour include hotel pick-up and drop-off?
No, this tour does not offer hotel transportation. You’ll need to make your way to the designated stops.

Can I buy tickets on the day of the tour?
Yes, tickets are available for purchase at the stops or online. Confirming your ticket beforehand can save waiting time.

How long is the full loop?
The complete circuit takes about 80 minutes, but with hop-on hop-off flexibility, your total experience length varies.

Is the Sky View Observatory included in all tickets?
No, it’s only available if you select the appropriate ticket. Check your options when booking.

Are the buses wheelchair accessible?
Most travelers can participate, and strollers are allowed in the observatory, but specifics aren’t detailed.

What if I want to explore at night?
This tour primarily operates during daylight hours, with the last departure at 4 pm. For evening activities, consider other options.

How reliable are the bus timings?
Some reviews mention long waits and delays, so plan for possible uncertainties and arrive early at stops.

Are the buses comfortable?
The fleet varies, and some travelers report run-down vehicles, but others find the buses comfortable and well-maintained.

Can I use my smartphone to download the self-guided tour?
Yes, instructions are provided to download the tour app via PocketGuideApp for offline use.

What discounts are available?
Guests receive a 10% discount on food and beverages at Pike Brewery when using their ticket.

Final Thoughts

The City Sightseeing Seattle HOHO Bus Tour offers a practical way to get a broad sense of the city, especially for those who want the flexibility to explore at their own pace. The inclusion of the Sky View Observatory enhances the experience for panoramic lovers, and the audio guide provides useful context for many sights.

However, it’s not without its flaws. Travelers should be prepared for potentially long waits, signage challenges, and varying bus conditions. If punctuality and comfort are important, you might find better experiences elsewhere.

This tour suits curious travelers eager to see the highlights without a rigid schedule, especially if they’re on a budget or prefer self-guided exploration. It’s a good starting point for first-time visitors wanting an overview, provided they’re flexible and patient.

For the value, convenience, and the chance to see several neighborhoods and landmarks in one day, it’s worth considering. Just keep your expectations in check, and come ready to enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere and stunning views.