City Sightseeing Seattle HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras

Thinking about seeing Seattle from a comfortable seat that hits all the major sights? The City Sightseeing Seattle HOHO Bus Tour offers just that—an easy, flexible way to get a lay of the land without the hassle of navigating busy streets on your own. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or looking for a relaxed way to revisit the city’s highlights, this tour promises a broad overview with plenty of opportunities to customize your day.

What we like about this experience? First, the self-guided flexibility means you can hop on and off as often as you like within 24 or 48 hours, making it easy to explore at your own pace. Second, the inclusion of the Sky View Observatory (if you opt for the right ticket) offers a breathtaking perch 275 meters above the city, perfect for panoramic photos and planning your next stop.

One potential catch? The reviews point to some issues with scheduling and signage, especially around city traffic and confusing stop locations. While some travelers are delighted, others have had long waits or difficulty finding stops. This means that if punctuality and clear signage are critical for your plans, you might want to weigh this.

This tour suits travelers who value flexibility, affordability, and a broad overview of Seattle’s top attractions. It’s especially good if you want to see the city without committing to a strict schedule, but be prepared for some inconsistency in service.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Hop on and off at over 17 stops, creating your own itinerary.
• Views & Landmarks: Major sights like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Amazon Spheres are included.
• Additional Extras: Entry to the Sky View Observatory is available with certain tickets, offering stunning city views from 275 meters high.
• Practical Concerns: Some reviews mention long waits, confusing signage, and bus condition issues, so manage expectations accordingly.
• Value: At $59, the ticket provides a good overview, especially if combined with the observatory, but some travelers feel the service could be more reliable.
• Navigation: Starting point is at the Space Needle, with most stops near major downtown spots—perfect for exploring on your own afterward.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

The Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

The route covers a broad sweep of Seattle’s most iconic spots, starting at the Space Needle & Seattle Center. This is the obvious first stop, offering immediate views of the city’s skyline and a chance to learn some facts through the onboard audio guide. The route then dips into neighborhoods like Pioneer Square, with its historic charm, and Chinatown, showcasing some of the city’s cultural diversity.

You’ll find stops near piers, cruise terminals, and waterfront areas—ideal if you plan to hop off and catch a boat or enjoy a seafood meal. For instance, Pier 66 and Pier 55 are included, which are lively areas with plenty of restaurants and boat tours. The Seattle Central Library and the Seattle Art Museum are also conveniently located stops, perfect for those wanting a cultural fix.

How the Bus Experience Shapes Your Day

The buses run every 30 minutes from 10 am to 4 pm, with a total tour duration of about 80 minutes if you stay on for one complete loop. This means you can choose to stay on for the full ride or jump off at your preferred sights. The onboard audio guide is helpful, offering interesting tidbits in English, but some reviews note that the guide can be a bit lengthy or talkative—so patience might be needed.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Reviews reveal a mixed picture. Some travelers rave about the comfortable seating, knowledgeable guides, and the convenience of the hop-on-hop-off format. “The bus was a great way to rest and see the sights,” one reviewer said, emphasizing how much they appreciated the ability to get on and off at their own pace.

However, others have faced challenges: long waits, confusing signage, and buses running late. “We waited 45 minutes and never got on,” lamented a disappointed visitor, who chose to use the free city bus instead. Another pointed out that signage over the Amazon Sphere was hard to locate, which could be frustrating in a city with busy streets and unclear stop markings.

The Value of the Extras

If you opt for a ticket with entry to the Sky View Observatory, you’ll get a chance to see the city from a height of 275 meters—west of the Mississippi, it’s the highest viewing platform in the area. The observatory is open Friday through Sunday and offers a 45 to 90-minute visit, perfect for snapping photos and getting a real sense of the city’s layout.

Plus, the tour includes a self-guided walking tour of Pioneer Square, where you’ll learn about Seattle’s early days, and a discount at Pike Brewery, which could be a nice reward after a day of sightseeing.

Practical Tips

• Timing: First bus departs at 10 am. If you want a full day, arrive early or plan to start at the Space Needle.
• Signage & Stops: Expect some difficulty in locating stops—Google Maps or the tour app can help, but be prepared for some uncertainty.
• Bus Conditions: Keep in mind some reviews highlight older, sometimes “stinky” buses. It’s worth being patient.
• Weather Gear: Seattle weather can be unpredictable, so rain gear is advisable, especially if you plan to be outside during your stops.
• Booking & Cancellation: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans change.

Who Is This Tour For?

This hop-on hop-off tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize flexibility and affordability over perfect punctuality. If you’re comfortable with some logistical hiccups and want a quick overview that hits most major sights, you’ll find value here.

However, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a highly reliable service, you might consider other options or combine this with a more structured tour. The potential for long waits and confusing signage means patience and a backup plan are wise.

The Bottom Line

This Seattle HOHO bus tour offers an accessible way to see many of the city’s highlights without the stress of figuring it all out yourself. Its appeal lies in the ability to customize your experience, with stops near the most popular attractions and optional access to stunning panoramic views from the Sky View Observatory.

For those who enjoy the freedom of exploring at their own pace, this tour can be a good value—particularly if you’re willing to tolerate some logistical quirks. If punctuality and signage are high priorities, do your homework beforehand or consider supplementing the bus with walking or other guided options.

The quality of the guides and the convenience of the route make this a popular choice, but the mixed reviews serve as a reminder that patience and flexibility are key. It’s best for travelers who want a broad overview and are happy to accept some uncertainties along the way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible from public transportation. However, those with mobility issues should check the bus conditions and stop locations.

Can I hop on and off at any stop?
Absolutely. The ticket allows you to hop on and off at designated stops as often as you like within the 24 or 48-hour window.

Does the tour include food and drinks?
No, food and beverages are not included. However, stops near piers and markets offer plenty of dining options.

Is the Sky View Observatory included?
Only if you select the ticket that offers entry to the observatory. The observatory is open Friday to Sunday, with a visit duration of 45-90 minutes.

What if I miss my bus?
Buses run approximately every 30 minutes, but some reviews mention long waits or delays. It’s best to plan for some flexibility.

Can I buy tickets on the day of my visit?
Yes, tickets are mobile or printed and can be purchased on-site or in advance. Booking ahead can help avoid disappointment, especially during busy times.

Are the buses comfortable?
Most travelers find the buses comfortable, but some reviews note that older buses may have unpleasant odors or be less clean. Be prepared for some variation.

Final Thoughts

The City Sightseeing Seattle HOHO Bus Tour is a practical, flexible way to get an overview of the city’s major sights, especially if you enjoy exploring at your own pace. With the option to visit the Sky View Observatory and other extras, it offers good value for those wanting a broad snapshot of Seattle.

While some common issues like signage and wait times exist, these are often outweighed by the convenience and coverage of the route. It’s an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers who like a relaxed approach and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability. For best results, pair this with a little planning, patience, and a sense of adventure.