Generated with sparks and insights from 13 sources

Pike Place Market

Neighborhood in Seattle, Washington

Travel Tips

Food and Dining

Don't miss Beecher's Handmade Cheese for lunch. 1

Try the fresh seafood and local artisan products. 2

Try the famous clam chowder at Pike Place Chowder. 3

Enjoy lunch at one of its famous restaurants while soaking up all that this historic locale has to offer. 4

Enjoy lunch at one of the many eateries within the market. 5

Local Experiences

Meet local vendors and explore the Downunder area for a glimpse into local traditions. 6

Watch cheese transform from curd to wheel at Beecher’s Handmade Cheese. Don’t miss the sunset views. 7

Explore beyond the fish throwers for local crafts and delicious treats. 8

Avoiding Crowds

Arrive early to avoid crowds and watch the famous fish throwing. 9

Arrive early to avoid crowds and see the market come to life. 10

Arrive early at 9 AM to beat the crowds. Download a self-guided tour for local insights. 11

Unique Experiences

Don't forget to take selfies at the gum wall. 12

Watch the famous fish-throwing tradition and explore the unique shops. 13

Catch a fish being hurled at you for a true Pike Place experience. 14

About

History

• 📅 Establishment: Pike Place Market was created in 1907 by city councilman Thomas P. Revelle, following an 1896 city ordinance for public markets.
• 🏗️ Growth: The market expanded over the years, adding stalls, buildings, and social services for the community.
• 🛍️ Market Master: The market is overseen by the Pike Place Market Preservation & Development Authority, managing 80% of the properties in the Market Historical District.
• 🏘️ Housing: Pike Place Market provides low-income housing for around 500 residents, with a focus on supporting the community.
• 📚 Heritage: The Market Heritage Center offers insights into the rich history of Pike Place Market.

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Operation

• 🏢 Management: The market is overseen by the Pike Place Market Preservation & Development Authority, managing properties in the Market Historical District.
• 👥 Governance: The Market PDA is governed by a 12-member volunteer council, setting policies and hiring an executive director.
• 🛒 Tenants: The market hosts a mix of farmers, craftspeople, and merchants, with specific rules for daystalls and operations.
• 🏠 Housing Services: The market provides social services like medical care, senior center, food bank, and childcare for low-income residents.
• 📜 Regulations: Farmers, craftspeople, and performers at the market follow specific rules and permits for operations.

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Attractions

• 🐟 Pike Place Fish Market: Known for fish-throwing, where employees toss fish to each other for customer orders.
• ☕ First Starbucks: The original Starbucks store, founded in 1971, is located at Pike Place Market and still in operation.
• 🐖 Rachel the Pig: A bronze piggy bank statue, Rachel, is a popular mascot at the market, collecting funds for social services.
• 🎨 Market Heritage Center: Offers insights into the history of the market and its significance in Seattle.
• 🎶 Buskers: Musicians like PK Dwyer have been entertaining visitors with live music at the market for years.

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Buskers

• 🎵 PK Dwyer: Credited with forming the first-ever street band at the market, entertaining visitors with live music for decades.
• 🎸 Morrison Boomer: A staple band at the market known for recording live music performances.
• 🎶 Dynamic Logs: A band that evolved from Felix & the Freelicks, entertaining visitors with their music at the market.
• 🎤 Performers Guild: Represents street performers at the market, providing entertainment for visitors.
• 🎭 Live Music: Various musicians and bands have been performing at Pike Place Market, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

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Dining

• 🦞 Seafood: Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at various stalls and restaurants in the market.
• 🍝 Italian Cuisine: Restaurants like The Pink Door and Il Bistro offer delicious Italian dishes in a cozy setting.
• 🍔 American Fare: Lowell's and Athenian Inn serve traditional American dishes with a touch of history.
• ☕ Coffee Culture: The first Starbucks store and other coffee shops provide a taste of Seattle's coffee scene.
• 🍴 Variety: From bakeries like Three Girls Bakery to French bistro Maximilien, the market offers a diverse range of dining options.

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