Indigenous History in Downtown Seattle: 5 Essential Stops
This Indigenous Peoples’ Day, families in Seattle have a unique opportunity to step outside and see the city through new eyes. Long before there were skyscrapers or ferries, this land was, and still is, the home of the Duwamish, Suquamish, and Coast Salish peoples. Their stories live on not just in books and classrooms, but in the streets, plazas, and waterfront of our city. Think of downtown Seattle as an open-air classroom: by visiting public art and landmarks, kids can connect to the history, resilience, and creativity of the first peoples of this land.
Here are a few places families can explore together:
Chief Seattle Statue — Tilikum Place
This bronze statue honors Chief Si’ahl (Seattle), the Suquamish and Duwamish leader for whom the city is named. Visiting the statue is a chance to talk with children about leadership, respect for the earth, and the values of community and stewardship.
Location: 2701 5th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121
Seattle George Monument — Convention Center Plaza
This unique monument blends imagery of Chief Seattle and George Washington. It’s an opportunity to discuss with kids how Indigenous presence is woven into the city’s history, and how two different legacies are remembered side by side.
Location: 4060 George Washington Lane Northeast, Seattle, WA 98105
New Cedar House-Posts: “To Our Teachers” — Seattle Waterfront
Installed along the waterfront between Columbia and Spring Streets, these carved house-posts by Suquamish and Muckleshoot artists celebrate Coast Salish traditions. The posts tell stories of teaching, resilience, and honor. Families can pause here and ask kids: “What story do you think this carving is telling?”
Location: Seattle Waterfront
Williams Memorial Pole — Seattle Center
Carved in memory of John T. Williams, a Native woodcarver, this pole stands as both a work of art and a reminder of justice, resilience, and cultural survival. Visiting this site helps children understand how traditions are carried forward through carving, storytelling, and remembrance.
Location: Seattle Center – South of The Museum of Pop Culture and east of the Space Needle
King County Indigenous Public Art Collection — Various Sites
Scattered throughout downtown are works created by Indigenous artists that celebrate storytelling, tradition, and connection to the land. Encourage kids to keep an eye out for these pieces, each one a reminder that Indigenous culture is not just history, but a vibrant, living part of Seattle today.
Location: King County Indigenous Public Art Collection, Various Locations
When visiting these sites, bring along a small notebook for your child to sketch what they see or write down questions. Ask open-ended prompts like:
- “What do you notice about this artwork?”
- “Why do you think it’s here?”
- “What story could this piece be telling us?”
These simple activities help kids connect to the art in personal and memorable ways.
Exploring Indigenous landmarks teaches children that history isn’t hidden in a textbook; it’s all around us. By walking through Seattle with curiosity and respect, families can learn together about the Duwamish, Suquamish, and Coast Salish peoples, and the ways their traditions continue to shape the city we call home.
At Kids Co., we believe in helping children grow into compassionate, respectful community members. This Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we invite families to step outside, explore, and honor the First Peoples of Seattle.
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