The historic Pike Place Market is one of Seattle’s greatest attractions and currently ranks as the busiest tourist spot in the city. Sat on a 3-hectare district looking out over Elliott Bay, the market offers a wealth of stalls, eateries and quirky shops selling all kinds of things imaginable. Still going strong after over a century since its opening in 1907, Pike Place Market is an inseparable part of the culture and spirit of Seattle.
There are a diverse array of things to see, do and buy at Pike Place Market for people of all ages. One of the most popular sights is the “flying fish” at Pike Place Fish Market, where fishmongers throw salmon to each other in order to save time. The market is also famed for its street busking, where shoppers and visitors can enjoy an eclectic range of music to accompany their visit. Alongside its shopping opportunities, the market is also home to a thriving collection of restaurants, cafés and bars that make it a popular evening spot.
Pike Place Market is situated in downtown Seattle and easily reachable by vehicle or on foot. Parking is available nearby and is linked to the market by a skybridge. Alternatively, public transport routes also stop close by to the market including the Metro bus system. Those travelling on the Sound Transit Light Rail can get off at the Westlake Light Rail station which is only four blocks away. Visitors flying in from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport can even hop on a Metro bus straight from the airport to the market.
Pike Place Market originally opened in 1907 as a market for farmers and other independent traders before quickly doubling in size by 1911 due to its popularity. The market has grown to become Seattle’s leading attraction with over 10 million visitors each year. Before the existence of the market, local farmers and merchants would sell their wares in an area called The Lots until the need for a specially designed market area arose to cope with demand.