Pike Place Market is the heartbeat of Seattle downtown. Buzzing with life, the market is a spirited mix of local, small businesses and craftsmen selling their goods, foods and high-quality products.
An entire day can be spent wandering the neighborhood chalk full of places to shop, eat, and relax. And a half day is all you need to hit the highlights, because you will need the other half of your day to go home and prepare your delicious findings.
1. "First off, if you see gum on the street, leave it there. It's not free candy."-Elf
Visit the iconic gum wall. The Market Theater Gum Wall is a brick wall covered in used chewing gum; stuck on in clumps, spelling out messages, and lined up in long lines. It has some of the most unique and creative ways I've ever seen on leaving old gum.
Fun Fact: In 2015 after the gum wall got to be so thick, it was named one of the top 5 germiest tourist attractions, the city decided it was time to do something about it. After 130 hours of work, 2, 350 pounds of gum was removed!!! But that hasn't stopped anyone, people continue to contribute to the "art".
It's located in Post Alley, under Pike Place Market.
2. The Original Starbucks
Ever wonder why Starbucks brewed coffee is called Pike Place? I did, until I visited the Original Starbucks, from 1971. It is located at 1912 Pike Place on the main Pike Place Market block.
There's not much to see inside, which is probably the best part. You can see how Starbucks got its start, as a non-chain, one store, simple coffee shop. It has a small, non suburban, open, rustic feeling. Still dawning the original logo, they have a special blend of coffee beans that is only sold at this location, and oh is it delicious.
Purchase your souvenir with your warm latte to go (there are no seats inside) to accompany you on your walk through the vibrant, fresh market.
3. Brunch on the waterfront
Western Ave is lined with many options to dine, drink, and have view of the water. Seatown Seabar has a delicious brunch menu and friendly staff.
4. Shop the market for fresh vegetables and food
Pike Place Market was founded in 1907 to provide the people of Seattle direct access to local producers. The markets are full of Washington producers and specialty farm products. Farm to table? Yes, please! Browsing the fruit and vegetable stands and interacting with the producers is an experience worth every penny.
Fruits, vegetables, flowers, dairy, cider, wine, meat, and poultry. You will find all your food soul desires and in the freshest of sense. Support the locals! I'm all about it.
5. "How many times do we drop the fish??" "Never times!!"
Visiting the World Famous Fish Market, will not disappoint, in entertainment or fresh, delectable fish.
A group of fish mongers committed to excellence and delivering a great product with a smile. You order your fish from one of the men sporting the long orange apron out front, they yell it heartily back to the fishmongers behind the stand and watch as the fish start to fly. It's a spectacle to be seen. And the interaction with the customers is a show all on it's own.
What does “World Famous” mean to these fishmongers?
Being present and relating to people as a human beings
Looking for ways to make your day
Being of service and taking great care of you
Having the very best quality seafood
Serving not only customers, but the world
Insider Tip: Best time to go? We went on a Monday morning. The best. Weekends are prime time tourist time and when the market fills, stand to stand. If you want the most our of your experience and great interaction with the local sellers, go on an off peak time. Although, the best show from the Fish Market are when the most people are around and orders are flying by the dozen. Heads up!
After you've purchased your local products head home to prepare a fresh, heavenly lunch to die for.
Shopping the local market took me back to my European days. I love supporting the locals, I love fresh produce. I love fish.
Pike Place Market, you are a gem.
xoxo
