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Post Alley: Seattle's Historic and Quirky Backstreet

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Discover Seattle's hidden gem: a historic alleyway with unique shops, eateries, and the world-famous Gum Wall. A must-see!

Post Alley, in the heart of downtown Seattle, is a charming brick-paved pedestrian alley known for its unique shops, restaurants, and the infamous Gum Wall [2, 8]. Originally named Post Street for the city's first post office, it offers a glimpse into Seattle's past with a distinct European feel [2].

A brief summary to Post Alley

  • Seattle, Seattle Waterfront, Washington, 98101, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the day or early afternoon for a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds [4].
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the alley is paved with bricks and the surrounding area is hilly [22].
  • Bring your own gum to contribute to the Gum Wall, or simply observe this quirky attraction [9].
  • Explore the various shops and restaurants along the alley, many of which are locally owned and offer unique Seattle experiences [4, 8].
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Post Alley is easily accessible on foot from most downtown Seattle locations. From Pike Place Market, simply follow the signs or ask a vendor for directions. The alley runs underneath the market and connects to various streets, including Pine Street and Pike Street. From the Seattle Waterfront, walk uphill towards Pike Place Market; the Harbor Steps lead directly to the pedestrian-only area of Post Alley [2].

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes, the light rail, and the Seattle Monorail have stops near Post Alley [3, 5]. From the Westlake Station (light rail or Monorail), walk west towards Pike Place Market. Several bus stops are located within a few blocks of Post Alley, including stops on 1st Avenue, 2nd Avenue, and 3rd Avenue [5]. Use the King County Metro Trip Planner app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes [14]. A single adult fare on King County Metro is $2.75 [10]. An ORCA card, which costs $3, can be loaded with a day pass for $6, allowing unlimited rides on most transit services [10, 14].

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in downtown Seattle [10]. Simply request a ride to Pike Place Market or Post Alley. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours. A typical short ride within downtown Seattle will cost approximately $15-$25 [10].

Discover more about Post Alley

Post Alley is a quintessential Seattle experience, offering a blend of history, quirky attractions, and hidden gems [8, 6]. Located in downtown Seattle, this pedestrian-only alleyway stretches approximately 3/4 of a mile from Yesler Way to Virginia Street, running underneath and through Pike Place Market [7, 2]. The alley's brick paving and historic buildings evoke a European atmosphere, setting it apart from the city's modern landscape [2]. Originally named Post Street (or Post Avenue) after Seattle's first post office opened in 1880, the alley has evolved into a vibrant hub of local businesses and unusual sights [2]. Notable landmarks along Post Alley include Cafe Campagne, The Pink Door, Ghost Alley Espresso, Post Alley Pizza, and Pike Place Chowder [2]. One of Post Alley's most famous—and perhaps most divisive—attractions is the Gum Wall [4, 6]. This colorful and chaotic display of chewed gum stuck to the brick walls has become a popular photo spot for tourists and locals alike [8, 9]. While some find it fascinatingly gross, others appreciate its unique artistic value [9, 4]. Post Alley provides a direct connection to Pike Place Market, making it a convenient and interesting route for exploring the market's many offerings [4]. The alley's blend of unique shops, eateries, and historical charm make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Seattle [8, 15].
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