Pike Place Market to Kubota Gardens

Grab a messenger bag and your comfy bus shoes, head to Pike Place Market, and take this classic Seattle tour for less than ten bucks. Go from tourist trap central to tranquil Kubota Gardens, then return to the waterfront for a spectacular sunset over the Olympic Mountains and the West Seattle skyline.

Downtown

On a weekend, hop a bus and purchase an all day ticket to ride ($2.50), or pay as you go throughout the week. Head to Pike Place Market and stuff your bag or backpack with a Humbow from the oft praised Mee Sum pastry (the pork is excellent, and there is a vegetarian option available). These pastries are available steamed or baked, and Mee Sum makes them very sweet with just the right amount of filling. (less than $5)

Next, tour the market if your heart desires, or skip the hustle-bustle and grab some fresh fruit from a vendor on the street. ($1-$2) Once your pack is loaded, and you’ve had your fill of fish tossing, head up Pike street to 3rd Avenue and catch Metro Transit route 106 to Renton. If possible, sit on the right hand side of the bus and look for the small Kubota Garden Park sign. Exit the bus at Renton Ave S. and 54th Ave S.

Kubota Garden

The legacy of Japanese gardener Fujitaro Kubota, this is one of Seattle’s lesser known gems. The garden blends traditional Japanese styles with Pacific Northwest native plants. Trickling brooks, gentle waterfalls, stone bridges under maple leaf canopies, and benches shaded by pine trees create an oasis in South Seattle. Open your pack, stretch out under a tree, and enjoy your Humbow to the music of birds and running water. After filling your belly, fill your senses with a full walk through the garden. Enjoy the Van Gogh-ish splashes of color, and a few of the purposefully crafted dead ends. When you’re ready to return to Urbania (Not likely!), head back to the bus stop and catch the Metro Transit 106 North to Downtown. Exit the bus at 3rd and Union and head back to Pike Place Market.

Pier 66

Skip the market and follow Post Alley to its terminus at Virgina. Hang a left on Virgina to Western Avenue and turn right. Turn left on Elliot Avenue and follow this street until you reach the Bell street footbridge. Take the bridge over Alaskan Way to reach the observation deck of Pier 66. Here, post-card views of Seattle and the Olympic Mountains await. Use the free binoculars and peak aboard cruise ships, or just sit on a bench and sigh as you realize you spent an incredible afternoon in Seattle for less than ten bucks.