Pier 55, Seattle
Pier 55 is a public dock on Seattle's central waterfront where visitors book boat tours, eat at restaurants, and enjoy views of Elliott Bay. The pier connects popular spots like Pike Place Market to the water's edge and offers shops, food vendors, and access to nearby attractions such as the Seattle Aquarium.
Built in 1900 by the Northern Pacific Railroad, the pier played a role in shipping and transporting prospectors during the Klondike Gold Rush. After various collapses and rebuilds, it shifted from a working dock to a tourism destination, was renamed Pier 55 in 1944, and now holds restaurants and shops instead of cargo operations.
The pier is now a lively spot where Seattle's connection to the water is evident in daily life. Visitors can watch fishing activity, dine at local restaurants overlooking the bay, and see how the city uses the waterfront for both work and leisure.
The pier is easy to reach and sits about 20 minutes on foot from Pike Place Market. It is helpful to wear layers since weather near the water can change quickly and may turn windy or rainy.
At night the pier is a popular spot for squid fishing, especially during winter months when waters are calm. The pier lighting attracts the squid and creates a quiet setting for anglers.
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