Ask most locals to describe Pike Place Market and their first word is probably "tourists." After that probably come "crowded" and "no parking." These things are true, but giving Pike Place the hand is a huge mistake.
The beloved 95-year-old public farmer's market, with dozens of fresh produce and flower vendors, was established in 1907, saved by citizens in the 1970s and has survived to become a Seattle cultural landmark. First Avenue and Pike Street - known as Under the Clock - is the market's heart, but this dense, unique shopping district now stretches from Western Avenue to the west side of First Avenue, from Virginia to Union Streets.
It's still a mecca of gorgeous local produce, cheap fresh flowers, fabulous flying fish, endless ethnic eateries and groceries, boisterous street musicians, funky antique shops, crafts stands and hip boutiques. So pick a rainy weekday and head on down. Or embrace those carnivalesque sunny weekends and fight the crowds.
By Paysha Stockton
Special to NWsource
 ANDREW ERNST / NWSOURCE
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MORE INFORMATIONMalls City/neighborhood: Downtown Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays Parking: Free parking, Paid parking, Street parking Disabled access: No obstacles to access Related info: Downtown shopping |