C
Bust of Chief Seattle on a fountain for horses and dogs in Pioneer Square, Seattle

Chief Of The Suquamish – Chief Seattle

Seattle, United States Of America

Chief Seattle Monument: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Seattle Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Seattle, Washington, is a city shaped by deep Indigenous roots, with the Chief Seattle Monument standing as a powerful symbol of this enduring heritage. Chief Seattle (Si’ahl), a 19th-century leader of the Suquamish and Duwamish peoples, is remembered for his diplomacy, wisdom, and role in fostering peaceful relations during a time of profound change. Today, visitors can experience this legacy firsthand at the Chief Seattle Monument in Tilikum Place, his gravesite in Suquamish, and through cultural institutions across the region. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to visiting these historical sites—covering hours, tickets, accessibility, nearby attractions, and practical tips for a respectful and enriching experience.

Table of Contents

Historical Background

Chief Seattle’s Life and Influence

Chief Seattle (Si’ahl or Sealth), born between 1783 and 1786, was a leader of both the Suquamish and Duwamish tribes. He played a pivotal role in the region’s history during the arrival of European settlers, advocating for the rights of his people through diplomacy and treaty negotiations. He is often remembered for a speech expressing Indigenous environmental stewardship, a narrative that has become emblematic of Seattle’s identity, though its exact origins are debated (theclio.com, questoapp.com).

Naming of Seattle and Early City History

The city of Seattle was named for Chief Seattle by its founders in 1851, recognizing his role as a “firm friend of the whites” and a guiding figure in the region (u-s-history.com). Chief Seattle maintained peaceful relationships with settlers and worked to secure his people’s future despite challenges in treaty enforcement. He passed away in 1866 at the Port Madison Indian Reservation, where his gravesite remains a place of honor (theclio.com).


The Chief Seattle Monument at Tilikum Place

Artistic Features and Symbolism

The Chief Seattle Monument, Seattle’s first commissioned statue, was created by sculptor James A. Wehn and dedicated in 1912 (Wikipedia). The life-size bronze figure stands atop a granite pedestal in Tilikum Place. Chief Seattle is depicted with his right arm extended in a gesture of greeting and peace, wrapped in a Hudson’s Bay blanket—symbols of friendship and the era’s cultural exchanges (TrailLink). Bear-head fountains and salmon reliefs on the pedestal highlight the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

Wehn’s commitment to authenticity included consulting the Suquamish community and basing the statue’s features on the only known photograph of Chief Seattle (TrailLink). The monument’s unveiling was led by Myrtle Loughery, Chief Seattle’s great-great-granddaughter, emphasizing its significance to both Native and settler communities.

Location, Accessibility, and Nearby Attractions

  • Location: Tilikum Place, intersection of Denny Way, Cedar Street, and 5th Avenue, Belltown, Seattle (Wikipedia)
  • Accessibility: The plaza is wheelchair accessible, with paved walkways and curb cuts. Public transportation and paid street parking are available (Visit Seattle City).
  • Hours and Admission: Open 24/7; no admission or tickets required.
  • Nearby Attractions: Seattle Center, Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture, Pike Place Market, and local cafes.

Visiting Chief Seattle’s Gravesite and the Suquamish Cultural District

Location, Access, and Orientation

Chief Seattle’s gravesite is located in the Suquamish Tribal Cemetery on the Port Madison Indian Reservation, Suquamish, WA. It sits near the historic Saint Peter Mission Church and is a short walk from the Suquamish Museum (citybop.com, Suquamish Museum).

  • Directions: Take the ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island, then drive or take Kitsap Transit north to Suquamish. Parking is available at the museum.
  • Accessibility: Both the museum and cemetery offer wheelchair access and accessible restrooms (Suquamish Museum).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Site Features

  • Gravesite: Open daily during daylight hours; free admission.
  • Suquamish Museum: Open Tuesday–Saturday 10 AM–5 PM, Sunday 12–5 PM (closed Monday); admission for adults $10, seniors/students $7, children under 12 free (Suquamish Museum).
  • Guided Tours: Available by appointment with a $20 guide fee; reserve at least 7 days in advance.
  • Site Features: The gravesite features a granite headstone, carved cedar canoes, and is surrounded by a walkway with views of Puget Sound. The museum offers cultural exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs (Suquamish Museum, Suquamish Museum).

Additional Suquamish Historical Sites

  • Saint Peter Mission Church: Historic Catholic church adjacent to the cemetery (citybop.com)
  • Old Man House Park: Site of the region’s largest longhouse, a short drive away (Suquamish Museum)

Chief Seattle Days and Cultural Events

Each August, the Suquamish Tribe hosts Chief Seattle Days (August 15–17, 2025) honoring Chief Seattle’s legacy and celebrating Suquamish culture (Suquamish Tribe). Events include:

  • Honoring ceremony at the gravesite
  • Powwows, Coastal Jam gatherings, athletic tournaments, and a salmon bake
  • Public and volunteer participation welcome

Practical Visitor Tips

  • Plan Ahead: Check museum hours and event schedules online.
  • Etiquette: Treat the gravesite and cemetery with respect. Leave only small, natural offerings; avoid loud noise and disruptive behavior.
  • Photography: Allowed at the gravesite (discreetly); check museum policy for restrictions.
  • Weather: Dress for Pacific Northwest conditions—layers and rain gear are recommended.
  • Amenities: Restrooms at the museum; nearby cafes and restaurants.
  • Lodging: Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort and Poulsbo area hotels; camping available during Chief Seattle Days (Suquamish Tribe).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for the Chief Seattle Monument at Tilikum Place?
A: The monument is open 24/7 with no admission fee.

Q: Are tickets required for the Suquamish Museum or gravesite?
A: The museum requires tickets; the gravesite is free to visit.

Q: Is the area wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, both the monument plaza and museum/cemetery are wheelchair accessible.

Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: Year-round access is available. Chief Seattle Days in August offers special cultural programming.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, at the Suquamish Museum with advance booking.


Summary Table: Essential Visitor Information

FeatureChief Seattle Monument (Tilikum Place)Chief Seattle Gravesite & Suquamish Museum
LocationTilikum Place, SeattleSuquamish, WA (Port Madison Reservation)
AccessPublic transit, street parkingFerry + car/bus from Seattle; Kitsap Transit
Hours24/7, year-roundMuseum hours vary; cemetery daylight hours
AdmissionFreeMuseum: Adults $10, Seniors/Students $7, Children free; gravesite free
AccessibilityWheelchair accessibleWheelchair accessible
Guided ToursIncluded in some city walking toursAvailable at museum with advance booking
Special EventsOccasional commemorationsChief Seattle Days in August
Nearby AttractionsSeattle Center, Space Needle, MoPOPMuseum, Old Man House Park, Saint Peter Mission Church
Contactn/a360-394-7105; [email protected]

Conclusion

The Chief Seattle Monument and associated historical sites offer visitors an immersive journey into the heritage of the Suquamish and Duwamish peoples and the broader story of Seattle. From the dignified bronze statue at Tilikum Place to the tranquil gravesite and vibrant Suquamish Museum, these sites invite reflection, learning, and cultural appreciation. By planning ahead, respecting cultural practices, and engaging with guided tours or community events like Chief Seattle Days, visitors can deepen their understanding and honor the living legacy of Chief Seattle. For updated information and self-guided cultural experiences, download the Audiala app and consult official resources.


References and Further Reading


Explore more Indigenous cultural sites and Pacific Northwest travel guides on our website to deepen your understanding and appreciation of this vibrant region.

Visit The Most Interesting Places In Seattle

1000 Second Avenue
1000 Second Avenue
1120 Denny Way
1120 Denny Way
1201 Third Avenue
1201 Third Avenue
1600 Seventh Avenue
1600 Seventh Avenue
5Th Avenue Theatre
5Th Avenue Theatre
7Th & Jackson
7Th & Jackson
970 Denny Way
970 Denny Way
Adjacent, Against, Upon
Adjacent, Against, Upon
Alaskan Way Viaduct
Alaskan Way Viaduct
Amazon Spheres
Amazon Spheres
Amazon Tower I
Amazon Tower I
|
  Andy'S Diner
| Andy'S Diner
|
  Angie'S Umbrella
| Angie'S Umbrella
Annapurna Cafe
Annapurna Cafe
Antioch University Seattle
Antioch University Seattle
Arthur Foss
Arthur Foss
Artusi
Artusi
Benaroya Hall
Benaroya Hall
Benson Hall
Benson Hall
Birthplace Of Seattle Monument
Birthplace Of Seattle Monument
Boeing Plant 2
Boeing Plant 2
Broken Obelisk
Broken Obelisk
Burke Museum Of Natural History And Culture
Burke Museum Of Natural History And Culture
Cal Anderson Park
Cal Anderson Park
Camlin Hotel
Camlin Hotel
Capitol Hill Branch Library
Capitol Hill Branch Library
Capitol Hill Mystery Soda Machine
Capitol Hill Mystery Soda Machine
Carl S. English, Jr., Botanical Gardens
Carl S. English, Jr., Botanical Gardens
|
  Cc'S
| Cc'S
Central Saloon
Central Saloon
Chief Of The Suquamish – Chief Seattle
Chief Of The Suquamish – Chief Seattle
Chief Seattle
Chief Seattle
Chris Cornell Memorial Statue
Chris Cornell Memorial Statue
Cirrus
Cirrus
City University Of Seattle
City University Of Seattle
Climate Pledge Arena
Climate Pledge Arena
Coast Guard Museum Northwest
Coast Guard Museum Northwest
Colman Dock
Colman Dock
Columbia Center
Columbia Center
Condon Hall
Condon Hall
Conibear Shellhouse
Conibear Shellhouse
Copacabana Restaurant
Copacabana Restaurant
Cuff Complex
Cuff Complex
Daybreak Star Cultural Center
Daybreak Star Cultural Center
Denny Hall
Denny Hall
Discovery Park
Discovery Park
Docusign Tower
Docusign Tower
Double Header
Double Header
Dr. Mark A. Matthews
Dr. Mark A. Matthews
Drumheller Fountain
Drumheller Fountain
Duwamish
Duwamish
Eagle
Eagle
Egyptian Theater
Egyptian Theater
Fairmont Olympic Hotel
Fairmont Olympic Hotel
Fallen Firefighters Memorial
Fallen Firefighters Memorial
|
  Fat'S Chicken And Waffles
| Fat'S Chicken And Waffles
Federal Reserve Bank Building
Federal Reserve Bank Building
First Methodist Protestant Church Of Seattle
First Methodist Protestant Church Of Seattle
Freeway Park
Freeway Park
Frye Art Museum
Frye Art Museum
Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park
George Washington Memorial Bridge
George Washington Memorial Bridge
Grand Army Of The Republic Cemetery
Grand Army Of The Republic Cemetery
Gum Wall
Gum Wall
Harbor Island
Harbor Island
Harvard Exit Theatre
Harvard Exit Theatre
Hec Edmundson Pavilion
Hec Edmundson Pavilion
Henry Art Gallery
Henry Art Gallery
Henry M. Jackson
Henry M. Jackson
Henry M. Jackson Federal Building
Henry M. Jackson Federal Building
Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
Historic Chinatown Gate (Seattle)
Historic Chinatown Gate (Seattle)
Holy Names Academy
Holy Names Academy
Honeyhole Sandwiches
Honeyhole Sandwiches
Howe Street Stairs
Howe Street Stairs
Husky Stadium
Husky Stadium
International District / Chinatown
International District / Chinatown
Interurban Building
Interurban Building
Iron Horse
Iron Horse
|
  Jack'S Fish Spot
| Jack'S Fish Spot
Kenyon Hall
Kenyon Hall
King County Courthouse
King County Courthouse
Kobe Bell
Kobe Bell
Lady Rainier
Lady Rainier
Lake View Cemetery
Lake View Cemetery
Lake Washington Ship Canal
Lake Washington Ship Canal
|
  Living Computers: Museum + Labs
| Living Computers: Museum + Labs
Lotus (Motor Vessel)
Lotus (Motor Vessel)
Louisa Boren Park
Louisa Boren Park
Lumen Field
Lumen Field
Made In Usa
Made In Usa
Magnuson Park
Magnuson Park
Maíz
Maíz
Maneki
Maneki
Market Theatre
Market Theatre
Marmite
Marmite
Maynard Building
Maynard Building
Mccaw Hall
Mccaw Hall
Mcgraw Square
Mcgraw Square
Mckenzie (Seattle Apartment Building)
Mckenzie (Seattle Apartment Building)
Memorial Stadium
Memorial Stadium
|
  Merchant'S Cafe
| Merchant'S Cafe
Momiji
Momiji
Moore Theatre
Moore Theatre
Museum Of History & Industry
Museum Of History & Industry
Museum Of Pop Culture
Museum Of Pop Culture
Mutual Life Building
Mutual Life Building
Myrtle Edwards Park
Myrtle Edwards Park
National Nordic Museum
National Nordic Museum
Neukom Vivarium
Neukom Vivarium
Northwest African American Museum
Northwest African American Museum
Northwest Seaport
Northwest Seaport
Occidental Park
Occidental Park
Odegaard Undergraduate Library
Odegaard Undergraduate Library
Off The Rez
Off The Rez
Ok Hotel
Ok Hotel
Olympic Sculpture Park
Olympic Sculpture Park
Pacific Place
Pacific Place
Pacific Science Center
Pacific Science Center
Padelford Hall
Padelford Hall
Paramount Theatre
Paramount Theatre
Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market
Pike Street Hill Climb
Pike Street Hill Climb
Pioneer Square
Pioneer Square
Pioneer Square Pergola
Pioneer Square Pergola
Pioneer Square Totem Pole
Pioneer Square Totem Pole
Playhouse Theatre
Playhouse Theatre
Pony
Pony
Port Of Seattle
Port Of Seattle
Prefontaine Fountain
Prefontaine Fountain
Queen Anne Columbarium
Queen Anne Columbarium
Rainier Tower
Rainier Tower
Red Square
Red Square
Roy Vue
Roy Vue
Russell Investments Center
Russell Investments Center
Safeco Plaza
Safeco Plaza
Seattle Art Museum
Seattle Art Museum
Seattle Asian Art Museum
Seattle Asian Art Museum
Seattle Center
Seattle Center
Seattle Central Library
Seattle Central Library
|
  Seattle Children'S
| Seattle Children'S
|
  Seattle Children'S Museum
| Seattle Children'S Museum
Seattle Cinerama
Seattle Cinerama
Seattle Convention Center
Seattle Convention Center
|
  Seattle Fishermen'S Memorial
| Seattle Fishermen'S Memorial
Seattle Opera
Seattle Opera
Seattle Pacific University
Seattle Pacific University
Seattle Public Library
Seattle Public Library
Seattle Repertory Theatre
Seattle Repertory Theatre
Seattle University
Seattle University
Seattle Yacht Club
Seattle Yacht Club
|
  Sick'S Stadium
| Sick'S Stadium
Smith Tower
Smith Tower
|
  St. Mark'S Episcopal Cathedral
| St. Mark'S Episcopal Cathedral
Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Starbucks Reserve Roastery
State Route 99 Tunnel
State Route 99 Tunnel
Statue Of Leif Erikson
Statue Of Leif Erikson
Statue Of Liberty
Statue Of Liberty
Suzzallo Library
Suzzallo Library
Swedish Medical Center
Swedish Medical Center
Swiftsure
Swiftsure
Sylvan Grove Theater And Columns
Sylvan Grove Theater And Columns
T-Mobile Park
T-Mobile Park
Taipei Economic And Cultural Office In Seattle
Taipei Economic And Cultural Office In Seattle
Taku
Taku
The Crocodile
The Crocodile
The Electric Lady Studio Guitar
The Electric Lady Studio Guitar
The London Plane
The London Plane
The Mitt
The Mitt
The Penthouse
The Penthouse
|
  The People'S Wall
| The People'S Wall
The Triple Door
The Triple Door
The Wildrose
The Wildrose
Theodor Jacobsen Observatory
Theodor Jacobsen Observatory
Times Square Building
Times Square Building
Town Hall Seattle
Town Hall Seattle
Unicorn
Unicorn
Union Square
Union Square
Union Station
Union Station
United Confederate Veterans Memorial
United Confederate Veterans Memorial
United States Courthouse
United States Courthouse
University Of Washington
University Of Washington
University Of Washington Clean Energy Institute
University Of Washington Clean Energy Institute
University Of Washington Libraries
University Of Washington Libraries
University Of Washington Medical Center
University Of Washington Medical Center
University Of Washington Quad
University Of Washington Quad
University Unitarian Church
University Unitarian Church
Urban Garden
Urban Garden
U.S. Bank Center
U.S. Bank Center
Uw Tower
Uw Tower
Virginia V
Virginia V
Volunteer Park
Volunteer Park
Volunteer Park Conservatory
Volunteer Park Conservatory
Warren G. Magnuson Health Sciences Building
Warren G. Magnuson Health Sciences Building
Waterfall Garden Park
Waterfall Garden Park
Waterfront Park
Waterfront Park
Westin Building
Westin Building
Westlake Center
Westlake Center
Westlake Park
Westlake Park
William H. Gates Hall
William H. Gates Hall
Wind Cradle
Wind Cradle
Wing Luke Museum Of The Asian Pacific American Experience
Wing Luke Museum Of The Asian Pacific American Experience
Woodland Park Zoo
Woodland Park Zoo
Zeitgeist Coffee
Zeitgeist Coffee
Zig Zag Café
Zig Zag Café