10 Reasons to visit the Famous Pike Place Market

When you visit Washington (state), chances are that you will visit Seattle. And when you are in Seattle chances are that you will hear about Pike Place Market.

This market in Pike Place is not just another farmer’s market. It’s a historical farmer’s market and it’s also a big attraction on Seattle’s Tourist map. Here’s why it is as big as it is and 10 reasons as to why you must visit this pubic market on Pike Place when YOU visit the Emerald City.

1. Pike Place Market is the oldest farmers market

Seattle’s Pike Place Market is said to be one of the oldest, and one of the longest operated farmers markets in the United States. It began operations in 1907.

A part of this market has even made it to the National Register of Historic Places.

2. It is spread over 9 acres

A market that’s spread over 9 acres is pretty large, right? Here we are talking of shops and stalls spread out over several blocks, some of them indoors, some outside and some in historical buildings in the area. And, the market has its stores on different levels as it is built on a hillside.

3. This place seems to have it all

In Pike Market, you are likely to find almost everything you can think of from fruits and vegetables to flowers, and from fish and meat to baked goods. You will find clothes, jewelry and souvenirs too, most of them at bargain prices. You will also see some performers with instruments — another sight you often see at farmers markets.

And Pike Place Market is open all year round!

4. You’ll find great food here

Pikes Place has a large number of restaurants. And you will find a lot of great food. And because they are situated in a huge market, you can expect to eat food cooked with local and fresh ingredients. How much better can it get?!

5. You can catch some Waterfront Views

Many spots in the market will treat you to the scenic views of Seattle’s Waterfront, Elliott Bay, Bainbridge Island and the mountains in the distance.

TIP: We chose to have lunch at a restaurant that had some views of the water. And that was a really good idea because we got to enjoy the views while we waited for our pasta, fish tacos, clam chowder. You might want to do that, too. 😉

6. The oldest Starbucks is here

The oldest Starbucks cafe is also here in Pike Place. You can find it on 1912 Pike Place. You might want to step into this historical address and have your favorite kind of coffee (or tea or cookies.)

When we passed there, there was a long line of people waiting to get it. With a baby in a stroller, we chose to skip that stop so I just took a couple of pictures and carried on to see a bit more of the market (and then come back, if possible but that didn’t happen, so next time! ;).

7. Look for Rachel

Rachel the Piggy Bank is the mascot of Pike Place Market and can be found somewhere in the market. One of the things to do here is seeking the pig made of bronze and taking pictures of her. It is also believed that if you rub her snout and make a donation to the market, good luck will come your way. 😉

I don’t think I saw her up close when I was there so I don’t have a picture of Rachel. However, I did get to see a miniature version of her elsewhere in the market.

8. Watch the famous flying fish

This was something I missed. However, you might want to go see this spectacle. I hear that if you go near Pike Place Fish and you are there when somebody comes up with an order for fish, you will get to watch the employees pick up the fish and toss it/ pass it to the counter.

I watched a video of it later and found it very amusing. You might want to go see it for yourself if you have Seattle plans. If you’ve already seen it, I’d love to see your pictures/videos. Feel free to leave links in the comments.

9. Watch everyday Seattle

Although you will come across a good number of tourists there, I must say that it’s a good place to watch everyday Seattle and feel the buzz of a local market.

You can people-watch and take a look at all the things sold there. And don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy some local treats.

10. Pike’s comes with a lot of Photo Opportunities

With all its fruits and vegetables, ethnic wares, bakeries and bars, performers too, you will find lots of subjects to photograph at Pike Place Market.

It was in 2014 that I visited Pike Place Market. My pre-trip reading told me it was a place not to be missed. And by the time we walked through the buildings and stalls that make up this colorful and lively place, and had a meal there, I was sure of it.

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