What started out as ten farmer wagons has blossomed into the iconic farmers market, loved by locals and tourists alike. Pike Place Market is the quintessential Seattle market where you can find fresh produce, flowers, quality meats, seafood, artisan products and every bit of good food the city has to offer. It is also a haven for crafters where you can find unique, handcrafted items, you can find everything from local pottery to glass and metal art pieces as well as all kinds of fashion accessories and clothing. The market houses hundreds of businesses, farmers and crafters. Exploring all nine acres, from Pike St. North to Virginia St. and from 1st Ave West to Western Ave, will take some planning.
Artists, Buskers and Street Performers – The city is simply brimming with art and culture and it’s easy to find talented and not so talented street performers everywhere! Pike Place Market is an excellent place to spot really good indie music, art and all kinds of performances, everything from the classics to the eccentrics. It’s part of the market’s soul and a great way to watch a free show every day!
Starbucks – While it is true that you can find a Starbucks in almost every corner now, the one at Pike Place is the original Starbucks. There’s just something about being the first Starbucks store ever that makes it sort of a must-see pit stop for coffee enthusiasts. Of course, locals also flock there for their daily Java so it can be quite busy.
Fish Market – The four fish markets inside Pike Place have their own kind of vibe. Watch fish guys play catch with huge fish or give your arms a work out by catching one yourself! Most of the vendors have been in the Market for decades and will be happy to share their stories, recipes and insider Market knowledge! You’ll find all kinds fresh fish and seafood here, you can even have your purchases wrapped in airplane-safe packages.
Farmers Market – The produce market on the cobblestone street, as you can imagine has every bit of seasonal fruits and vegetables from the local farmers including artisanal food products and imports from other parts of the globe. Colorful flowers can also be found in the historic arcade right along with fresh vegetables, herbs and berries. It’s open to shoppers seven days a week, 362 days a year. Take time to savor the sights but don’t forget to pay a visit to Rachel the Market piggy bank.
Post Alley and The Gum Wall – This small strip brings a lot of unique finds, a chocolate shop, a few coffee shops and restaurants and the famous Market Theater Gum Wall! The tradition began in 1993 when a couple of theater goers stuck gum on the wall. Despite the efforts of the theater workers, people just kept sticking their used gum on the wall, even creating works of art. Eventually they gave up and it was officially declared a tourist attraction in 1999.
Every visit at the Pike Place Market brings new discoveries, every locavore, tourist, chef and foodie is bound to find a tasty treat in one of the hundreds of shops that make up the market. Enjoy your visit and don’t forget to grab a bite and a pint at Blarney Stone Pub and Restaurant!