Pike Place Market in Seattle
A famous Seattle farmer market, Pike Place Market is the top tourist
Listed in the national register of historic places, Pike Place Market is a public farmer market that overlooks Elliott Bay in downtown Seattle, Washington. More than a farmer market, Pike Place Market is a cultural experience.
Built on a hill with a main level and lower levels underneath, Pike Place Market has craft stalls, fresh produce stands, fishmongers, restaurants, antique shops, arcades, and much more. This Seattle farmer market is extraordinary in a number of ways.
From May to October, there are approximately 40,000 visitors on Saturdays alone. Individual shops have varying business hours, but farmers sell all year long from tables at the market.
Everything from candy stores to jewelry stores, musicians, and zucchini stands will keep you entertained for hours.
Successful from its start in 1907
Like Los Angeles Farmer Market and other early farmer markets, Pike Place Market began in 1907 with farmers selling fruit and vegetables from trucks and wagons. But unlike most farmer markets, Pike Place Market had 10,000 visitors on its first day of business. Pike Place Market grew to encompass nine acres and the farmer market quickly became the number one tourist attraction in Seattle, Washington.
Saved by concerned citizens
The Seattle farmer market was nearly demolished by the city in 1963 in favor of a new, modern plaza. Led by Victor Steinbrueck, an architect, the community of Seattle rallied in support of the farmer market and eventually they succeeded in having the land designated as a historic preservation zone. Afterward, the farmer market buildings became public property under the direction of The Pike Place Market Public Development Authority. Steinbrueck Park, named in Victor Steinbrueck's honor, is located adjacent to the market.
Interesting Trivia about Pike Place Market
--The original Starbucks opened in Pike Place Market in 1971.
--At Pike Place Fish Market, employees throw fish to each other, instead of passing them hand to hand. Now known as the place with the "flying fish," Pike Place Fish Market was featured on Frasier and The Learning Channel.
--Parts of Sleepless in Seattle were filmed at Pike Place Market.
Must See Attractions
If you visit, be sure to see Pike Place Market Street Performers, Pike Place Fish Market, Starbucks, the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, and the Main Gallery. Remember to pick up a site map of the Seattle farmer market as it is easy to get lost since it covers nine acres and multiple levels.
More Information
For more information, visit the official Pike Place Market website.
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