Commuters waiting for the trolley at the foot of Yesler Way, Seattle, 1916

Interurban Building

Interurban Building Seattle: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Interurban Building, standing at the intersection of Yesler Way and Occidental Avenue South in Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square, is a remarkable symbol of the city’s resilience, architectural innovation, and transportation legacy. Completed in 1891 as the Seattle National Bank Building, this Richardsonian Romanesque landmark was designed by John Parkinson and quickly became a cornerstone of Seattle’s post-fire reconstruction era. Today, the Interurban Building is not only a testament to the city’s past but also an active participant in its vibrant present, housing offices, retail spaces, and serving as an anchor in a neighborhood known for its cultural and historical significance (Picture Seattle; DBpedia).

This guide provides everything you need to plan your visit—detailing its history, architecture, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, nearby attractions, and practical tips for making the most of your experience.

Construction workers building the foundation at Smith Tower construction site in Seattle, Washington, December 2, 1911

Construction workers digging and setting foundational framework at Smith Tower site in Seattle in January

Horse drawn carriage leaving the empty lot at 2nd Avenue and Yesler Way near Smith Tower construction site in Seattle, Washington

Initial framework for foundation construction at Smith Tower site in Seattle, December 30, 1911

Historic view looking north on Occidental Ave S towards Yesler Way in Seattle with Hotel Seattle and Puget Sound Electric Railway train at depot

Historic view of 3rd Avenue and Jefferson Street looking west during 1906 regrade activities in Seattle, showing storefronts including Pain's Pompeii, J Jesperson Tailor, and Globe Laundry

Men digging foundation and stacking materials at Smith Tower construction site in Seattle Washington November 25 1911

Historic commercial street scene at Occidental and Yesler in Seattle in 1913 with storefront signs for Chas. F. Keenan Co. Grocers, Chauncey Wright Restaurant, and Queen City Hotel. Horse-drawn carriages and early automobiles are visible on the street.

Pacific Block or Interurban Building in Seattle circa 1900 with vintage commercial signs and bustling street scene

Historical Pioneer Place intersection in Seattle circa 1903 with Pioneer Building, Hotel Seattle, Olympic Block, streetcars, wagons and a totem pole

Historic Pioneer Square in Seattle circa 1924 showing totem pole, Hotel Seattle, Pioneer Building, Olympic Block, and Merchant's Hotel at the intersection of Yesler Way, James Street, and 1st Avenue

Historic drawing of Pioneer Square in Seattle looking northeast at James St. and Yesler Way in 1891 showing streetcars, wagons, and period buildings including Pioneer Building and Occidental Hotel

Pioneer Square totem pole in Seattle circa 1910 with historic buildings including Pioneer Building and Seattle Hotel in background

Pioneer Square totem pole circa 1910 with the edges of Pioneer Building, Pacific Block, Interurban Building, and Olympic Block in view

Pioneer Square totem pole carved by Tongass Island tribe displayed in Seattle around 1910 with historical buildings in background

Historic Pioneer Square intersection with totem pole, Hotel Seattle, Pioneer Building, and Olympic Block in early 1900s Seattle

Historic Seattle-Tacoma Interurban Station at Occidental Ave S and Yesler Way circa 1910 with Hotel Seattle and various businesses

Historic photograph of Seattle intersection at Yesler Way and Second Avenue in 1900 showing the Metropole Building, early G.O. Guy drugstore, and surrounding businesses including Park & Tilford distillery and London Loan Office

Entrance of Seattle National Bank building from 1890 designed by J. Parkinson

Seattle National Bank Building and Seattle Hotel at 2nd Ave and Yesler Way in Seattle around 1898, showing street railroad tracks, carts, wagons, and utility poles on dirt roads

Historic Seattle National Bank building on Occidental Avenue South

Seattle National Bank Building at southeast corner of Occidental Avenue and Yesler Way in 1898

Historic Seattle National Bank Building at the southeast corner of Yesler Way and South 2nd Avenue with street railroads and horse carriages

Interior of Seattle National Bank circa 1890 with antique furniture and detailed architectural features

Historic street scene at 2nd and Yesler in Seattle circa 1907 showing commercial signs and horse-drawn wagons

Smith Tower under construction in 1913 towering over the triangular Hotel Seattle near First Avenue and Yesler Way

Tall totem pole at Pioneer Square with men sitting on benches around it waiting for the streetcar, historical black and white photo from 1915

Historic street view of Yesler Way and 2nd Avenue in Seattle with Seattle Hotel and G. O. Guy drugstore circa 1905

Historical Overview

Origins and Architectural Significance

Built in the wake of the Great Seattle Fire of 1889, the Interurban Building reflects the city’s determination to rebuild using fire-resistant masonry and robust design. Architect John Parkinson’s vision materialized in the building’s heavy stone walls, rounded arches, and intricate terra cotta ornamentation, including the famed lion’s head sculpture above its main entrance. The building is an excellent example of Richardsonian Romanesque style, with thick brick walls, cast-iron columns, and deep-set windows that have helped it endure for more than a century (Picture Seattle; DBpedia).

Role in Transportation and Urban Growth

The building’s name commemorates its pivotal role as the terminal and office space for the Puget Sound Electric Railway Interurban Line, which connected Seattle with Tacoma and Everett in the early 20th century. This electric railway transformed regional commuting and commerce before the rise of automobiles, making the Interurban Building a hub of urban development and economic activity (HistoryLink).

Evolution and Preservation

Over time, the building transitioned through several names and uses: starting as the Seattle National Bank Building, then becoming the Pacific Block, later serving as the Smith Tower Annex, before being renamed the Interurban Building in 1977. Its continued adaptation reflects Seattle’s broader urban evolution. The building is now a protected part of the Pioneer Square Historic District, benefiting from preservation efforts that maintain its architectural integrity while supporting modern uses (Real Change News; Seattle Times Timeline).

Visiting the Interurban Building

Location and Accessibility

Address: 157 Yesler Way, Seattle, WA 98104

The Interurban Building is centrally located in Pioneer Square, easily accessible by King County Metro buses, Link Light Rail (Pioneer Square Station), and nearby parking garages. The main entrance on Yesler Way is wheelchair accessible, with elevators and accessible restrooms available in the building. For specific accessibility needs, contact building management in advance.

Visiting Hours

Office and Lobby Access: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM
Ground-Floor Businesses: Typically open 7:00 AM–8:00 PM daily (hours may vary by business)
Upper Floors: Reserved for offices; not generally open to the public

Note: Public access is primarily to the lobby and ground-floor retail spaces. Some areas may have restricted access due to tenant operations.

Tickets and Admission

No ticket or admission fee is required to visit the exterior or lobby of the Interurban Building. Access to ground-floor businesses is free. Tickets are required only for associated walking tours or special events in the neighborhood.

Guided Tours and Events

While the Interurban Building itself does not host regular guided tours, it is a featured stop on many Pioneer Square walking tours, such as those run by the Seattle Architecture Foundation and the Seattle Underground Tour. These tours provide valuable historical context about the building and the neighborhood. Check with tour providers for schedules and ticket information (Pioneer Square Walking Tours; Events12).

Special events, art shows, and cultural gatherings also occur in and around the building during Pioneer Square’s monthly art walks and community festivals.

Architectural and Historical Highlights

Richardsonian Romanesque Style: Characterized by robust red brick, rounded arches, deep-set windows, and ornate terra cotta detailing, most famously the lion’s head above the entrance.
Fire-Resistant Construction: Built after the 1889 fire, using masonry and iron to reduce fire risk.
Historic Interior: Though renovated, the lobby and some original features such as mosaic tilework and decorative ironwork remain visible.
Role as Interurban Railway Terminal: Key to linking Seattle with Tacoma and Everett, fostering early 20th-century regional growth (HistoryLink).

Nearby Attractions

Smith Tower: Seattle’s original skyscraper with an observatory offering panoramic views.
Occidental Square Park: Public park with art installations and community events.
Seattle Underground Tour: Guided tours exploring the city’s subterranean passages.
Pioneer Square Art Galleries and Cafés: Experience the local arts scene and dining.
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park: Museum chronicling Seattle’s Gold Rush era (Visit Seattle).

Visitor Tips

Photography: The building’s façade, lion’s head, and hidden stone carvings make for excellent photo subjects.
Best Times: Weekday mornings or early afternoons are quieter and ideal for exploration.
Weather: Seattle weather is variable; bring a raincoat and comfortable shoes for walking the area’s cobblestone streets (Lonely Planet).
Safety: Pioneer Square is safe during the day, but stay aware of your surroundings, particularly at night (Lonely Planet).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Interurban Building’s visiting hours?
A: The building’s lobby and ground-floor businesses are generally open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM; individual business hours may vary.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, the building’s lobby and exterior are free to visit.

Q: Are guided tours offered inside?
A: Not directly, but the building is featured in Pioneer Square walking and architecture tours.

Q: Is the Interurban Building accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the main entrance and elevators are accessible. Contact management for specific needs.

Q: What are some nearby attractions?
A: Smith Tower, Seattle Underground Tour, Occidental Square Park, and many art galleries and cafés.

Visual Resources

Interactive map of Pioneer Square and the Interurban Building

Preservation and Modern Use

The Interurban Building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and protected within the Pioneer Square Historic District. It exemplifies adaptive reuse, housing modern offices, retail, and creative spaces while preserving its historical character. Ongoing preservation efforts highlight Seattle’s commitment to honoring its architectural heritage and ensuring the building remains a vibrant part of the city’s cultural and economic life (Visit Seattle).

Summary and Recommendations

The Interurban Building represents more than a century of Seattle’s architectural, economic, and cultural evolution. Its Romanesque façade, transportation history, and role in the city’s growth make it a must-see landmark in Pioneer Square. Combine your visit with local art walks, historic tours, and nearby attractions for a comprehensive Seattle experience. For curated historical audio tours and up-to-date event listings, consider downloading the Audiala app.