If you want to experience the full essence of Seattle, you must visit Pike Place Market. Known as the soul of Seattle, Pike Place Market has something to sate every sense. There are a veritable treasure trove of sights, sounds, and tastes to experience. Pike Place Market began as a small farmers Market of eight vendors back in 1907. Today, it is home to 200 year-round commercial businesses, 190 crafts people and100 farmer’s vendors. It is an unforgettable place, and its wonders are never exhausted.
The World Famous Pike Place Fish Company
Upon entering Pike Place Market, you will find your nostrils filled with the smell of fish. The world renowned Pike Place Fish Company is a culture unto itself. Some of the world’s best quality fish are sold there, but the real attraction is the fishmongers (or employees) who have a unique style of customer service. Beware of flying fish.
Whether you are out to buy fish there or not, it is a fascinating sight to behold as the workers call out orders and throw fish (of any size, shape, or color) back and forth. Seldom do they drop the slimy creatures, but when they do, that is what makes it yet more fun. If you’re not a fish eater, you can at least enjoy the show.
Pike Place Market Produce and Flowers Vendors
Pike Place Market is home to many of Washington’s highest quality produce and flower farmers. Walking through these vendor rows is a feast for the eyes. The quality and freshness of the produce is top- notch. Prices vary of course, but good bargains can be had.
The fresh scent of flowers is a nice contrast to the fish back at the entrance. Every color of the rainbow, every combination of flowers one can imagine, are available to visitors. The flowers are a big draw for frequent visitors.
Restaurants and Eateries
There are such a wide variety of eateries at Pike’s Market, it is truly hard to make a decision. Here are a few of the more unique eateries to visit there:
Beecher’s Handmade Cheese is a cheese kitchen where they actually make cheese, have a retail store, and a deli. Even if you’re not in the market for cheese, watching them make cheese in the kitchen makes for an interesting few moments at the Market.
Café Champagne is one of the finest French Bistros in the state and, to some critics, in the country. Its many accolades are impressive.
Ethnic eateries abound at Pike’s. From Greek to Indian, to a New York Deli cuisine, there is something for everyone. There are meat, bakery, candy, ice cream stores and coffee and tea shops. You cannot walk through Pike Place Market without all the various aromas luring you to eat, drink, and be merry.
Merchants, Galleries, and Antiques
There are dozens of art galleries and antique shops to while away the hours at the market. Antiques at Pike Place is a popular store with over 5,000 square feet to peruse a wide variety of antiques from different eras. Visitors will find dozens of little jewelry, clothing, book and comic book stores, and handmade arts and craft. Some of the shops are your typical touristy places with souvenirs, but most have a unique personality that can be seen in their wares.
The Famous Bubble Gum Wall
Don't leave Pike's Market without visiting the Bubble Gum Wall. Some people find this a gross attraction but, honestly, with zillions of colorful gums (okay, yes, they have been chewed) it makes for an interesting sight. The novelty of this sticky attraction seems to draw the younger crowd. They cannot resist adding their specimen to the collage. The Bubble Gum Wall can be found in Post Alley, below Pike's Market.
Location and Transportation of Pike Place In Seattle
Pike Place Market is in the heart of downtown Seattle and is accessible by bus, light rail, ferry, or car. The market is located on First and Pike. If you are going by car, Pike’s Market has a parking garage located at 1531 Western Avenue, just behind the market, and offers some of the cheapest parking rates in the city.
.Pike’s Market Revisited
Pike Place Market is a bit like Disneyland - you cannot experience it all in one visit. It’s a place where you will want to take your time and it is a place to visit time and again. Pike’s never loses its flavor or runs out of things for you to see and experience. Whether you just go to listen and watch the people and street performers or to shop and dine, Pike’s Market will not disappoint you.
Sources:
Pike Place Market Website, pikeplacemarket.org (Accessed August 10, 2011).
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