Welcome to Pike Place Market, where the air buzzes with excitement! This iconic spot attracts around 5.4 million visitors each year, showcasing its vibrant culture and delicious food. From fresh seafood to unique crafts, you’ll find something special at every turn. Dive in and explore the charm of this bustling marketplace!
Key Takeaways
Pike Place Market is a food lover’s paradise. Don’t miss the fresh seafood, especially the award-winning chowder and wild salmon.
Explore unique artisan food stalls for local treats. Try Beecher’s mac and cheese and Piroshky Piroshky’s pastries for a delightful experience.
Experience the lively atmosphere with street performers and quirky attractions like the Gum Wall and Rachel the Pig, a fun way to support local services.
Food at Pike Place Market
When you visit Pike Place Market, your taste buds are in for a treat! The market is a haven for food lovers, offering a wide array of local delicacies and fresh produce. Here’s a closer look at some must-try food experiences.
Sample Fresh Seafood
You can’t visit Pike Place Market without indulging in its famous seafood. The market is home to several highly-rated seafood vendors. Here’s a quick overview of some of the best:
Seafood Vendor | Tour Type |
|---|---|
Pike Place Chowder | Seafood Tasting Tour |
Totem Smokehouse | Seafood Tasting Tour |
Market Grill | Seafood Tasting Tour |
Pike Place Fish Market | Seafood Tasting Tour |
Wild Fish Poke | Seafood Tasting Tour |
Make sure to try the award-winning chowder from Pike Place Chowder, recognized as the best in America. You’ll also want to sample the wild salmon, known for its fresh, sustainable sourcing. Other seafood delights include Dungeness crab and halibut, both popular choices among visitors.
Indulge in Local Coffee
After enjoying some seafood, why not grab a cup of coffee? Pike Place Market is home to the original Starbucks, which opened its doors in 1971. This iconic location offers a unique experience for coffee lovers. You can savor their handcrafted beverages while soaking in the market’s lively atmosphere.
If you’re looking for something different, check out Storyville Coffee. This cozy spot is known for its inviting ambiance and delicious brews. Many visitors rave about the quality of their coffee, making it a must-visit during your time at the market.
Explore Artisan Food Stalls
Pike Place Market is filled with artisan food stalls that showcase the best of local cuisine. Here are some popular spots you shouldn’t miss:
Beecher’s Handmade Cheese: Famous for its creamy mac and cheese.
Piroshky Piroshky: A Russian bakery known for its fresh pastries, especially the rhubarb piroshky.
Jack’s Fish Spot: Offers a variety of fresh seafood options.
Rachel’s Ginger Beer: Perfect for a refreshing drink on a warm day.
You can also find unique treats like Chukar Cherries, which are chocolate-covered fruits, and Pike’s Pit BBQ, known for its succulent pulled pork. With so many options, you’ll have plenty to savor on your visit!
Things to Do in Pike Place Market: Shopping
When it comes to shopping at Pike Place Market, you’re in for a delightful experience! The market is brimming with unique shops, local crafts, and fresh produce. Here’s what you can’t miss.
Visit the Iconic Pike Place Fish Market
No trip to Pike Place Market is complete without a visit to the famous Pike Place Fish Market. This bustling seafood market is known for its lively atmosphere and the legendary fish-throwing tradition. It all started in the 1980s when an employee tossed a bag of clams to a coworker instead of walking back. This playful act quickly became a crowd favorite, drawing visitors from all over. Now, you can watch the skilled fishmongers toss fish through the air while they engage with the audience. It’s a fun spectacle that captures the spirit of the market!
Discover Unique Crafts and Souvenirs
As you wander through the market, you’ll find a treasure trove of unique crafts and souvenirs. Here are some recommended shops to check out:
Shop Name | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|
Magic Shop | A fun store filled with magic-related items and games. | Level 4, near Pike Place Fish Market. |
Chukar Cherries | Known for delicious chocolate-covered cherries, a must-visit stall. | Main Arcade, on the left after entering from Billie the Piggy Bank. |
Pappardelle’s | Offers gourmet-flavored pastas, including unique options like chocolate linguine. | Main floor, near Chukar Cherries, on the right after entering from Billie the Piggy Bank. |
Old Seattle Paperworks | Features a collection of vintage magazines and advertising art. | Level 4, next to the Giant Shoe Museum, accessible via stairs near Pike Place Fish Market. |
These shops showcase the creativity of local artisans and provide perfect mementos of your visit to the market.
Browse Fresh Produce and Flowers
Pike Place Market is also a hub for fresh produce and beautiful flowers. You’ll find colorful arrangements and seasonal blooms that brighten up any day. Here’s what you can expect:
Bouquets generally priced at $5 and $10
A delightful way to start your day in Seattle
The market features over 70 flower vendors, with tuberose being one of the most popular flower types sold. You can explore a variety of seasonal flowers throughout the year:
Spring: Daffodils and Tulips
Summer: Peonies and Dahlias
Autumn/Fall: Chrysanthemums and Sunflowers
Winter: Evergreens and Berries
Year-Round: Roses, Orchids, and Wildflowers
Pike Place Market supports small, independent growers from across Washington State, ensuring you get the freshest produce available. You can find everything from fruits and vegetables to honey and meat, making it a great spot for foodies and flower lovers alike.
With so many shopping options, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Pike Place Market that cater to your interests. Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood, unique crafts, or vibrant flowers, this market has something special for everyone!
Entertainment Options
Pike Place Market is not just about food and shopping; it’s also a hub for entertainment! You’ll find a lively atmosphere filled with street performers, quirky attractions, and fun activities. Here’s what you can enjoy during your visit.
Enjoy Street Performers
As you stroll through the market, keep an eye out for the approximately 240 rotating street performers who bring the space to life. From musicians to magicians, you’ll find a variety of acts that capture the spirit of Pike Place Market.
“Pike Place is the most quintessential busking spot in Seattle,” said street performer Robert Leslie. “A busker is anyone who goes out in public and exchanges their talent for tips.”
Here are some popular genres you might encounter:
Musical performances
Performance art (miming, balloon art, magic)
Instrumentalists (Accordion, Violin Cats, Hammered Dulcimer players)
Visit the Gum Wall
One of the most unique attractions at Pike Place Market is the famous Gum Wall. Located in Post Alley, this quirky landmark began in 1991 when theater patrons started sticking their used gum on the walls. Initially, the gum was removed during cleanings, but by 1999, it became a tourist attraction. Now, the wall is covered with gum, measuring several inches thick and reaching 15 feet high along a 50-foot section.
An estimated 180 pieces of gum per brick cover the wall.
It has become a local landmark and a must-see for visitors.
Feed Rachel the Pig
Don’t forget to visit Rachel the Pig, a bronze piggy bank created in 1986 by the Pike Place Market Foundation. Named after a 750-pound pig that won first place at the 1985 Island County Fair, Rachel raises funds for low-income housing and services. Each year, she collects around $10,000 for community support. Feeding Rachel is a fun way to contribute to a good cause while enjoying your time at the market!
With so much entertainment to explore, Pike Place Market offers a vibrant experience that keeps you engaged and entertained throughout your visit.
Culture at Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market isn’t just a place to shop and eat; it’s also a vibrant cultural hub! You can dive into the rich history, explore art galleries, and even take cooking classes. Here’s how you can immerse yourself in the culture of this iconic market.
Learn About Local History
You’ll find plenty of historical milestones that shaped Pike Place Market. Here are some key events:
1963: A proposal to demolish the market sparked community opposition.
November 2, 1971: Seattle voters approved Initiative 1, preserving the Market and creating a historic district.
1973: The Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (PDA) was established to manage and renovate the Market.
1970: 1.5 acres of the Market were listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
1972: The historic district expanded around the Market.
These events highlight the community’s dedication to preserving the market’s unique character.
Visit Art Galleries
Art lovers will enjoy the diverse galleries at Pike Place Market. Here are some notable spots:
Gallery Mack: Features contemporary artists from the Northwest.
Gallery ERGO: Offers fine art originals and prints.
Gradient Art Gallery: Showcases prints and original paintings.
Hands of the World: Displays folk wall art and sculptures from global communities.
MarninSaylor: Known for whimsical animal scene posters.
These galleries provide a glimpse into the creativity that thrives in the market.
Participate in Cooking Classes
If you love cooking, you can join one of the many classes offered at Pike Place Market. Here’s a quick look at what’s available:
Class Types | Age Groups | Skill Level | Class Themes |
|---|---|---|---|
Date night | Adults | All levels | Italian, French, Thai, and more! |
Couples | Adults | All levels | |
Corporate events | Adults | All levels | |
Team-building | Adults | All levels | |
Kids’ classes | Kids | All levels |
These classes are a fun way to learn new skills while enjoying the market’s lively atmosphere.
With so much culture to explore, Pike Place Market offers a unique experience that goes beyond food and shopping. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this historic site!
Pike Place Market offers a vibrant mix of activities that cater to every interest. You can enjoy fresh seafood, explore artisan crafts, and soak in the rich history. Don’t miss the chance to visit Rachel the Pig and support local services. Plan your visit today and experience the charm of this iconic market firsthand!
FAQ
What are the market hours for Pike Place Market?
Pike Place Market typically opens at 9 AM and closes at 6 PM, but hours may vary by vendor. Check specific store hours before your visit.
Is there parking available at Pike Place Market?
Yes, you can find several parking garages nearby. Street parking is also available, but it can be limited during peak hours.
Are pets allowed in Pike Place Market?
Yes, pets are welcome at Pike Place Market! Just keep them on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
