Pike Place Farmers Market
About the Pike place farmers market
Nestled at 85 Pike Street in Seattle, Pike Place Market is a vibrant cornerstone of the city’s culture, bustling with over 70 local farmers and countless artisans since its founding in 1907. As one of America’s oldest farmers’ markets, it draws millions yearly to savor fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and the famous fish-throwing spectacle at Pike Place Fish Market. From the original Starbucks to the charming Rachel the Piggy Bank collecting for charity, this nine-acre gem offers a lively mix of Seattle farmers’ market charm and quirky history—nearly lost to demolition in the 1960s but saved by passionate locals. Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, Pike Place is a must-visit for foodies and explorers seeking Seattle’s best. Stroll through its arcades for live busker music, grab a coffee at Le Panier, or shop organic goods from vendors like Black Forest Mushrooms. With EBT-friendly stalls and events like the Flower Festival, it’s a welcoming hub for all. Perfect for discovering fresh finds and soaking in Seattle’s market legacy, Pike Place is where community and flavor thrive. Check below for amenities and frescos.
Amenities
- Bathrooms: Public restrooms available in the Ferry Building near food stalls and at the MarketFront plaza, with additional comfort stations near Pike Place and First Avenue; ADA-compliant options exist but can be busy during peak hours.
- Parking: Limited due to downtown Seattle; Market Garage at 1531 Western Avenue offers paid parking (~$5–$10/hour), with scarce metered street parking and nearby private lots (~$10–$20/day); public transit (Link light rail, Free Waterfront Shuttle) recommended.
- Coffee Vendors: Iconic options include the original Starbucks (1912 Pike Street) for classic brews, Le Panier for French-style coffee, and Storyville Coffee for premium blends, perfect for a market stroll.
- Public Transit: Easy access via Link light rail (Westlake Station, 5-minute walk), buses, or the Free Waterfront Shuttle (10 AM–8 PM, Seattle Aquarium stop), ideal for avoiding parking challenges.
- Information Booth: Located at First Avenue and Pike Street, offers EBT/SNAP token exchange, Market Match info, and visitor guides for navigating the nine-acre market.
Frescos
- Live Music: Daily busker performances by over 60 permitted artists, from Pike Place to the Arcade, with live music amplified during events like the Flower Festival (May 10–11, 2025), creating a festive vibe.
- Pet-Friendly: Leashed pets welcome in open-air areas, kept away from food stalls for hygiene, with the MarketFront plaza offering space for dogs to roam comfortably.
- EBT/SNAP: Accepted at farm stalls with Market Match (doubles purchases up to $10–$20) and Fresh Bucks vouchers, available at the Information Booth, supporting low-income shoppers.
- Organic Focus: Organic vendors like Black Forest Mushrooms (lion’s mane, oyster mushrooms) and Herban Farm (herbs) provide fresh, sustainable produce, appealing to eco-conscious visitors.
- Signature Events: Annual highlights include Flower Festival (May 10–11, 2025, 30+ flower farms), Daffodil Day (March, free daffodils), and Market Bingo (February, $100–$250 gift cards).
- Rachel the Piggy Bank: Beloved bronze mascot at First and Pike, collecting donations for the Pike Place Market Foundation’s social services since 1986, a quirky photo op.
- Fish Throwing: Pike Place Fish Market’s famous salmon-tossing spectacle, entertaining crowds daily, a unique Seattle tradition.
- MarketFront Plaza: Post-2017 expansion with Puget Sound views, public seating, and vendor space, perfect for relaxing amid the market’s bustle.
- Pike Box CSA: EBT-eligible weekly produce subscription, connecting shoppers with local farmers for fresh, seasonal goods.
Tips
- Arrive Early for the Best Experience: Visit by 10 AM on weekdays to beat the crowds, snag the freshest produce from over 70 farmers, and enjoy a quieter stroll through Seattle’s iconic market; weekends are livelier but busier.
- Bring Cash for Quick Purchases: Many farmers and small vendors prefer cash (small bills are best), though some accept cards or digital payments like Venmo; stock up at the Information Booth if needed.
- Opt for Public Transit to Avoid Parking Hassles: Skip the limited downtown parking (Market Garage at 1531 Western Avenue is pricey, ~$5–$10/hour) and use Link light rail (Westlake Station, 5-minute walk), buses, or the Free Waterfront Shuttle (10 AM–8 PM, Seattle Aquarium stop).
- Explore Beyond the Main Arcade: Venture to the lower levels (Post Alley, DownUnder) for hidden gems like quaint shops and eateries, and check out the MarketFront plaza for Puget Sound views and extra vendor stalls.
- Capture the Moment with Rachel the Piggy Bank: Snap a photo with the beloved bronze pig at First and Pike, a quirky mascot collecting donations for the Pike Place Market Foundation since 1986—tag @pikeplacemarket on Instagram!
- Plan Around Signature Events: Check pikeplacemarket.org for events like the Flower Festival (May 10–11, 2025) or Daffodil Day (March) to enjoy freebies, live music, and special vendor offerings.
- Bring Reusable Bags for Eco-Friendly Shopping: Pack sturdy bags to carry fresh produce, organic mushrooms from Black Forest Mushrooms, or crafts from the market’s 160+ artisans, supporting Seattle’s green vibe.
- Savor a Coffee but Skip the Starbucks Line: Grab a brew at Le Panier or Storyville Coffee for a quicker, equally delicious caffeine fix compared to the crowded original Starbucks at 1912 Pike Street.
Events at the market
**Upcoming Events**:
– **Busker Performances**: Daily, 10 AM–5 PM, live music and entertainment.
– **Market Bingo**: February 2025, all month, win $100–$250 gift cards.
– **Daffodil Day**: March 2025, free daffodils to celebrate spring.
– **Flower Festival**: May 10–11, 2025, 11 AM–4 PM, 30+ flower farms, free tote bags.
– **Produce on Pike**: Wednesdays, July–September 2025, 3 PM–7 PM, fresh produce.
Visit [pikeplacemarket.org](https://www.pikeplacemarket.org) for updates.
Market hours:
Everyday from 10am-5pm
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