Pike Place Market is one of Seattle’s most iconic landmarks. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Seattleite returning to experience the market’s charm, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about Pike Place Market.
What are the hours of Pike Place Market?
With the huge variety of businesses at Pike Place Market, the hours vary widely around the neighborhood and from business to business. In general, it’s busiest from 10 am to 5 pm and most vendors are open during that time. You can come outside of those hours though, since some businesses start their days early and others like Can Can Culinary Cabaret are open much later into the evening.
Why do they throw fish at Pike Place Market?
The short answer is to have fun, bring a crowd, and sell more fish. For the long answer, take a Savor Seattle Food Tour and learn the full story about the men behind the madness. On our Insider’s Breakfast and Cultural Tour, we’ll take you right up close and personal for a chance to meet these fish-throwing legends while we tell you the whole tale of how it all began. And then we’ll have them delight you with three tastings of Pacific Northwest smoked salmon.
Where to park at Pike Place Market?
We always encourage people to park in the Pike Place Market parking garages. Not only are they one of the best deals downtown for parking, but the money also goes to The Market. Save money and support a good cause! Find entrances at:
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- 1531 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
- 1901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
- 1530 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101
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Where to eat at Pike Place Market?
This is a question that always gets a smile and a similar response: what do you WANT to eat? You can find almost anything you are craving at The Market. You can experience the best tastes of the Pacific Northwest, like wild-caught salmon, Dungeness crab, or apples. Or take an international approach and taste a variety of food from all over the world! Italian, French, Greek, Mexican, Estonian, Ethiopian, Indian, Turkish: The Market has it all! Also don’t want to miss market classics like donuts and award-winning clam chowder.
Fun fact: You’ll only find the first locations of local restaurants serving up bites from some of the best chefs and cooks in town. There are no franchises, chains, or even second locations in The Market.
What to do at Pike Place Market in Seattle?
The list of things to do are endless. Try amazing fish and seafood. Buy locally handmade arts and crafts. Taste cuisine from James Beard Award-winning chefs. Pick up a bouquet of freshly picked seasonal flowers. Enjoy an incredible cup of coffee from any of the amazing cafes in the neighborhood. Explore The Down Under, the lower levels of The Market where you can find all sorts of businesses like the magic shop, bookstores, art galleries, or the world’s oldest comic book shop. And the list goes on and on. We recommend allowing yourself at least a full day to explore the wonders of this historic neighborhood.
Where is the fish market at Pike Place?
Folks ask this question often but it’s a bit of a misconception. While visiting one of the fish stands is always fun, whether it’s Pure Foods Fish or the fish throwers at Pike Place Fish Co., these are just a few of the vast array of businesses you’ll find down at The Market.
How big is Pike Place Market?
It’s HUGE! The Historical District spans nine acres and the main building is eight stories tall. With over 500 businesses and thousands of people who work and live within the community, The Market is far larger than most people realize. This is why we always recommend that people schedule a good amount of time for exploration and adventure!
How old is Pike Place Market?
On August 17th, 1907, a handful of farmers stood up to fight against corruption…and won! Since that day over a century ago, Pike Place Market has remained open and only gotten better. Over the years, The Market has seen many changes. As you walk the streets and alleys of The Market, look around you and see the way this beautiful patchwork neighborhood came together to become the heart and soul of Seattle.
Why are pigs the mascot of Pike Place Market?
In the mid-1980s, Rachel the Pig was installed right beneath the main sign and clock and has since been the mascot of the neighborhood. The symbol of the pig has become a reminder of Pike Place Market’s commitment to community. The fun part: Rachel is an actual piggy bank that collects money for the Pike Place Market Foundation! Rachel and her cousin Billie, another piggy bank at the other end of the market, will raise around $20,000 each year to support the foundation’s efforts with things like the food bank, senior center, and health clinic.
The Market is more than just a place to shop—it’s a community. Whether you’re savoring fresh seafood, discovering local artisans, or watching the famous fish throwers in action, every visit to the market offers something new to explore. We hope these answers help you plan a memorable trip and encourage you to take your time soaking in everything at this historic market.
