Top 10 Things To Do In Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is one of Seattle’s most iconic attractions and a place I’ve been lucky to visit several times. Founded in 1907, it’s one of the oldest continuously operating farmers’ markets in the United States.
The market spans a couple of blocks and multiple levels, filled with food stalls, fresh flowers, local crafts, and street performers, making it a must-visit on any Seattle itinerary.
Another thing I love about Pike Place Market is its location right next to the waterfront. It’s the perfect spot to grab something to eat and enjoy it with views of Elliott Bay.
On my visits, I’ve realized that Pike Place Market is more than just a quick stop; it’s an experience. Whether you’re tasting your way through a food tour, watching the famous fishmongers toss salmon, or browsing the crafts and quirky shops tucked into the lower levels, there’s always something new to discover.
In this post, I’m sharing the top things to do at Pike Place Market so you can make the most of your time in this Seattle landmark. I would recommend getting there at opening time and plan to spend at least 3-4 hours at the market.
1. Take a food tour at Pike Place Market
With so many food stalls and restaurants inside Pike Place Market, it can feel overwhelming to know what to explore and where to eat. On my first two visits, I wandered without much direction, but on my recent visit, I booked this Early Bird Pike Place food tour and had an amazing experience.
A local guide showed us hidden corners, shared stories about the market’s history, and had tastings ready for us at some of the best vendors.
Here’s a look at what we tasted on the tour:
- Honest Biscuits with Beecher’s Cheese and Seven Roasters coffee
- Samosa with chutneys at Saffron Spice
- Smoked salmon at Pike Place Fish (I skipped this one)
- Raspberry bar at Three Girls Bakery
- Taco at Los Agaves
- Egg Yalla sandwich at Sisters European Café
- ‘Seattle Fog’ gelato at Hellenika Creamery
- Chocolate chip cookie at Indi Chocolate
The tastings added up to a light meal, and skipping the lines made it even better. More than the food, though, it was the history and insider tips that gave me a whole new appreciation for Pike Place Market. If it’s your first time at Pike Place Market, I highly recommend starting with a food tour.
➡️ We booked this Early Bird Food Tour of Pike Place Market
➡️ You can read my full review of our Pike Place Market food tour here.
2. Visit the Original Starbucks Store
Coffee lovers won’t want to miss the Original Starbucks, located at Pike Place Market. Starbucks is my favorite coffee chain, so I love that the original store is right here at Pike Place.
Technically, this is the second Starbucks store. The very first opened in 1971, a block away on Western Avenue, but that building was later demolished. The Pike Place location, which opened in 1976, is now the oldest operating store and still displays the original Starbucks logo, which is different from what you see today.
The shop itself is small, and the line often stretches down the street, especially later in the day. If you’re short on time, it may not be worth waiting just for a coffee, but it’s fun to stop by and see where the Starbucks story began. Even if you don’t go inside, the storefront makes for a great photo spot and is one of the most popular landmarks in the market.
3. See the Gum Wall in Post Alley
Just a short walk from the market is one of Seattle’s quirkiest attractions, the Gum Wall in Post Alley. What began in the 1990s with theatergoers sticking gum on the wall has evolved into a colorful, ever-changing piece of street art.
It’s a little strange and a little gross, but it’s a popular attraction here. I have seen a similar gum-covered alley in San Luis Obispo, so it was not that unique for me. I wouldn’t plan to spend much time here, but it’s a fun stop for photos and a unique part of the Pike Place Market experience.
4. Watch the Fishmongers at Pike Place Fish Market
One of the most famous sights at Pike Place Market is the fishmongers tossing salmon through the air at Pike Place Fish Market. This tradition started decades ago as a way to entertain customers, and it’s now one of the market’s biggest draws. Even if you don’t buy seafood, it’s worth stopping by to watch the show.
On our recent food tour, we paused here to see the action, and it was a lot of fun to watch the fish being thrown. The energy was contagious, with the crowd cheering along.
5. Admire the Fresh Flower Stalls
The flower stalls at Pike Place Market are some of the most beautiful I’ve seen. Lined with colorful bouquets, they brighten up the entire main arcade of the market. What makes them even more special is that the flowers are sold directly by local farmers, which keeps the prices surprisingly affordable.
On my visits, I’ve seen impressive bouquet arrangements with a variety of flowers. Even if you’re not planning to buy a bouquet, it’s worth stopping to admire the rows of flowers; they make for some of the best photos in the market. I wish I lived nearby and could buy these flowers every week for my kitchen.
6. Stroll Through the Crafts Market
Beyond food and flowers, Pike Place Market is also home to a lively arts and crafts market. Local artisans set up stalls with handmade goods ranging from jewelry and pottery to paintings, woodwork, and unique souvenirs. Everything sold here is made by the person at the booth, which makes it a great place to find something one-of-a-kind.
I bought a unique glass bowl from a local craftsman as a souvenir, and it always reminds me of my visit to the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum. Shopping here felt more personal than browsing a typical souvenir shop, and it’s the perfect place to find a meaningful keepsake from Seattle.
7. Meet Rachel the Piggy Bank
Right at the entrance of Pike Place Market, you’ll find Rachel the Piggy Bank, a life-sized bronze pig that has become one of the market’s most famous landmarks.
Installed in 1986, Rachel isn’t just for photos; she’s also a working piggy bank that helps raise money for the Pike Place Market Foundation, which supports programs for the local community. There is another photo op with Rachel at the back, near the waterfront area.
8. Listen to the Street Performers (Buskers)
Street performers, known as buskers, add to the lively atmosphere of Pike Place Market. On any given day, you might hear live music, watch magicians, or see other creative acts scattered around the market’s corners and along the sidewalks. On my last visit, we stopped to hear a few performers, and it was fun listening to the music.
9. Explore the Waterfront
One of the best things about Pike Place Market is its location right next to Seattle’s waterfront. After browsing the stalls, it’s easy to step outside and enjoy views of Elliott Bay. You can grab a bite from the market and take it to a nearby bench, stroll along the piers, or watch the ferries come and go.
The waterfront is also home to attractions like the Seattle Aquarium and the Seattle Great Wheel, making it a great spot to continue your visit after the market. On our last visit, we even hopped on a guided Seattle harbor cruise after exploring the market, which was a relaxing way to see the city skyline from the water.
10. Visit Nearby Attractions
Pike Place Market is right in the heart of downtown Seattle, which makes it easy to combine with other Seattle attractions. Within walking distance, you can visit the Seattle Art Museum, take a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel, or stop by the Seattle Aquarium. The waterfront piers are also a nice place to stroll, shop, or grab a snack.
If you have more time, head a little further out to see the Space Needle or explore the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum. On our last trip, after finishing at the market, we walked a few blocks to Westlake Center and hopped on the Seattle Monorail, which took us right to the Space Needle.
➡️ I share more about how we planned our day exploring the top attractions in my One Day in Seattle Itinerary.
Tips from our visit
- Go early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Weekdays are less busy than weekends
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there are stairs and uneven pavement
- Bring cash for small purchases and tips. Most stalls took credit cards.
- Allow at least 2–3 hours to explore fully.
- Parking is limited, so consider walking or public transport. We used the Seattle Link light rail to get to the market. Westlake is the nearest light rail station.
Final Takeaways
Pike Place Market is more than a farmers’ market; it’s the heart of Seattle and a historic landmark. From food and flowers to street performers and waterfront views, it’s a must-do for first-time visitors and a place I love returning to on every trip.
