Pike Place Market: A Guide to Seattle's Liveliest Market

Seattle is a city with a one-of-a-kind vibe, where the past and present blend together seamlessly. It's home to places that offer a glimpse into the city's history and culture. One such place is the popular market that has become a hub of the city's life and a beloved destination for visitors. This market is known for its variety, bustling energy, and the chance to experience authentic Seattle.

History of Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is Seattle's first and largest farmers' market, operating since 1907. At a time when farmers could not recoup their costs, the market was a way to connect them directly with buyers, by eliminating the middlemen. Every day, thousands of city dwellers come to pick up flowers for their birthday, buy fresh food, or meet friends to relax after work.

Pike Place Market is full of fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the year. There are also fish and butcher shops, flower shops, bakeries, dairy and specialty food vendors, and a wide selection of restaurants.

But what really makes the market so special? These are far from fruits and vegetables...

At the turn of the century Seattle was a fast growing city. The population was accustomed to mining gold, harvesting forests, fishing and trading, therefore the demand for products and goods from neighboring urban farms grew. Since 1890, the city's population has doubled in ten years, increasing from 42 to 80 thousand citizens.

Farmers brought their vegetables, fruits, milk, eggs and meat to the city using horse carts and ferries from the nearby islands. The goods were bought by wholesalers who sold goods for a commission in warehouses. Under such a system, farmers sometimes made a profit, but more and more often lost money.

Later on, product prices skyrocketed, and citizens became angry about price gouging. The noise prompted a local official to come up with a solution. In the summer of 1907, Seattle City Councilor Thomas Revell proposed that the city create a public marketplace where farmers and consumers could meet and trade directly, bypassing wholesalers.

On the opening day of August 17, 1907, crowds of shoppers in search of fresh produce poured into the new market. One farmer even sold out his product in minutes. Within three months, the market had grown to 76 stalls, and by 1922 had expanded to 11 buildings on nine acres near the Seattle waterfront.

By the 60s, Pike Place Market was devastated, with the aftermath of World War II. The fact is that among the sellers, two-thirds were Japanese, and after order No. 9066 they were sent to the camps. Fortunately, the architect and activist Viktor Steinbrück and his associates successfully campaigned to create the historic quarter that saved the market. Offices and parking lots couldn't move it.

Today there are over 500 shops, restaurants and bars. In 2017, the market expanded, bringing in additional outdoor space for sellers.

What to See on The Market

Exploring the shops at Pike Place Market can take an entire day. There are over 200 artisans in the market selling everything from homemade soap to handmade ceramics. All of them will be happy to talk about their work.

Pike Place also known for its endless rows of flower stands, and a lush bouquet will cost only $10. You will find a variety of shops selling vintage posters and magazines as well as pop culture items, from lightsabers to rare comics.

During a walk or excursion, you will see:

• the Sur La Table grocery store, as well as the Made in Washington gift shop;
• Metsker Maps of Seattle is a travel and geography shop with maps, local topography books and guides;
• nearby is So Much Yarn, a yarn and knitting department store;
• Along West Avenue, explore Ugly Baby and La Ru and The Paper Feather boutiques for quirky gifts and handmade paper products for friends;
• if you want to eat outdoors, buy fresh fruit with special cheeses and cold cuts from DeLaurenti, and nearby you will find a place under the surprisingly familiar name — Piroshky Piroshky. Yes, don't be surprised, they sell Russian pastries here;
• After a bite to eat, drink one of 16 beers at Old Stove Brewing Co.

Street Performances and Creative Atmosphere

As you stroll through the market, you’ll immediately notice its unique vibe. Life here buzzes not only in the bustling stalls but also in the open streets. Street musicians, magicians, and artists transform an ordinary walk into a vibrant show. Every corner is filled with the sounds of guitars, drums, or live vocals, while the smiles of passersby make the experience even more enjoyable.

Musicians perform everything from classical melodies to modern hits and sometimes even their own original compositions. Their performances create a lively background that perfectly highlights the market's dynamic energy.

You can also catch street performers showcasing their skills with humor and flair. They juggle, perform fire tricks, or create giant soap bubbles, often involving the audience in their acts. It’s always entertaining, sometimes a bit unexpected, but undoubtedly unforgettable.

Creativity is also evident in the work of local artists. Their paintings, sculptures, and other creations are displayed right on the streets. Many are happy to share the stories behind their works and even create something in front of an audience.

Street performances are the heartbeat of this vibrant and energetic atmosphere. They turn the market into a place you’ll want to revisit time and again to experience the magic of creativity.

Tips for Tourists

Visiting Pike Place Market is a must-do for anyone traveling to Seattle. It’s a place where you can not only taste the freshest products but also immerse yourself in the spirit of the city and learn fascinating details about its history and culture.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and not miss anything interesting, keep these tips in mind:

• Arrive Early
  If you want to enjoy a quieter visit, come in the morning. By then, many stalls are already open, but the crowds are still light. It’s the perfect time to explore the market, chat with vendors, and take beautiful photos.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes
  The market is made for long walks, so comfortable footwear is essential. The area is large, and you’ll cover a lot of ground to see all the interesting corners.
• Don’t Rush to Buy Souvenirs
  With so many souvenir stalls, prices can vary. Take your time to browse, compare options, and find not only the best item but also the best deal.
• Try Local Food
  The market offers a huge variety of culinary delights. From fresh seafood to pastries and coffee, make sure to try something new. Many stalls offer samples, so don’t hesitate to ask and learn more about their products.
• Bring Cash
  While many vendors accept cards, smaller stalls may only take cash. It’s better to be prepared in advance to avoid missing out on something special.
• Plan Your Route Ahead
  If your time is limited, check out the market map in advance. This will help you prioritize the spots you’re most interested in and avoid aimless wandering.
• Watch Street Performers
  Make time in your visit to stop and enjoy the atmosphere. Street performances are one of the market’s highlights and definitely worth your attention.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a comfortable and memorable visit to the market. It’s a place that will surely leave you with warm memories.