Pike Place Market

Fish Throwing in Seattle

The Market is a Seattle institution. As it approaches the century mark (the first stalls opened in 1907) the Market has become something rare in urban America; a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The reason is simple: food. Fish, fruit, produce and street food thrive here. All summer long the locals grumble about the crowds and the tourists drive through the middle of the market, but we keep coming back. Chain stores aren’t allowed, though Starbucks got its start here. There are a few souvenir shops and a fair amount of overpriced junk – but who cares? Just skip over it.

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The Market is at its best in the morning. The vendors are setting up, and the place is fresh and full of energy. On summer afternoons the crowds can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate. Be warned that Pike Place is an area that closes up at around 5:30 pm, except for a few of the sit down restaurants. Much better to spend your evening in hip Belltown or in the clubs and bars of Pioneer Square. Have a great morning in the Market. You don’t need to arrive before 8 or 9 am - and please don’t have breakfast first.

Fish Throwing Video - Seattle's Pike Place Market:

It is impossible to visit Seattle as a tourist and avoid Pike Place Market. Located right on the waterfront near the downtown area, its huge sign is like a beacon. However, Pike Place Market is more than just a tourist trap in the vein of San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf. The Market is truly a place to get great, fresh food from the people who know it best. Just browsing, you will see delicious produce, seafood, and beautiful crafts. There are also a number of restaurants and shops within the huge market and adjoining buildings.

I recommend that you consider an initial trip to the market, and then one at the end of your trip. Many things at the market are not convenient without a kitchen-- such as fresh fish and produce. At the end of your trip, you can either arrange shipment or place it in your luggage. All of the seafood vendors will pack in ice or arrange shipment.

The market was established in 1907 for farmers and fisherman to sell direct to consumers. In the 1930's, over six hundred sellers worked in the market. The market declined until 1974 when it was preserved as a historical district. There are NO sleazy fast food places here-- only fisherman, farmers, and craftspeople. The market is large and covers almost nine acres. Keep in mind that the market closes in the late afternoon-- so go early. One note-- the world's FIRST Starbuck's coffee is located right next to the market. You'll see the true original (racy!) Starbuck's mermaid there.

Official History of Pike Place Market - Seattle

August 17, 1907	When onion prices skyrocket - consumers deal directly with farmers at First and Pike.
November 30, 1907	Pike Place Market opens its first building.
1917	The market completes its main buildings.
1921	Willard Soames forms the Associated Farmers of the Pike Place Market to oppose relocation of the market to underground near Fifth and Pine. The market wins to stay in its new location -- by only one vote of the City Council.
1938	Mark Tobey - a Seattle artist dedicates himself to paintings of the market's vibrant life.
1942	After the Pearl Harbor attack - many market stalls sit empty after their Japanese operators are interned by the U.S. government.
1963	Plans to replace the market with high-rise buildings began evaluation.
1964	Victor Steinbrueck and Rober Ashley start a new group - "Friends of the Market" to fight to keep Pike Place Market intact.
1971	A historic preservation zone is created around the market.
1973	A government entity - Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority is created to own and operate the market.
1982	The Market Foundation is created to support the market's human services offerings.
2007	The 100th anniversary of Pike Place Market!

Driving Directions and Parking Information for Seattle's Pike Place Market

Restaurant Listings for Seattle's Pike Place Market

Shopping Tips from our Editors

Recommended Market Vendors:

Pike Place Fish Market - The flying fish throwers from the old Levi's commercials. They ship online fresh fish (unthrown).

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