Pike Place Market

About

Pike Place Market is one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers' markets in the United States. Founded in 1907, this nine-acre historic district in downtown Seattle draws millions of visitors each year with its famous fish-throwing vendors, endless rows of fresh produce, and a personality that's unmistakably Pacific Northwest.

The market spans several levels built into the hillside between First Avenue and the waterfront. You'll find over 200 independent shops, 80 farmers, 240 street performers, and hundreds of small businesses. From the original Starbucks location to tiny stalls selling handmade jewelry, there's something tucked into every corner. The iconic neon sign and clock have become symbols of Seattle itself.

Fresh seafood is a major draw, and watching vendors at Pike Place Fish Market hurl salmon through the air never gets old. Beyond the spectacle, you can pick up Dungeness crab, smoked salmon, and oysters to enjoy on the spot. The produce stalls overflow with Washington-grown apples, cherries, and berries in season, and the flower vendors offer some of the most affordable bouquets you'll find anywhere.

Beyond food, the market is home to craft vendors, comic book shops, vintage poster dealers, and small restaurants with cult followings. Lower levels reveal a quirky maze of antique shops and curiosity stores worth exploring. The nearby MarketFront expansion added new public space and stunning views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains.

The market is open daily, with most vendors operating from 9 AM to 6 PM. It's busiest on weekends and summer days, so weekday mornings offer a calmer experience. Getting there by bus or light rail is recommended, as parking downtown can be limited and expensive. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours wandering, tasting, and soaking in the atmosphere.

Accessibility

Pike Place Market has an ADA-compliant main entrance and the main arcade level is wheelchair accessible along its full length. The market spans multiple levels built into a steep hillside, and elevators are available to move between them. A key elevator is located at the end of the pergola, providing access down to Level 1. From the Main Arcade center, you can exit through the double doors near Mick's Peppourri and use the Skybridge elevator to reach Level P1.

The surrounding streets in this historic part of Seattle include steep sidewalks and some cobblestone surfaces, which can be challenging for wheelchair users and those with mobility concerns. Arriving by public transit (Metro bus routes stop nearby, and the Westlake light rail station is a short distance away) can help you avoid these slopes. If driving, nearby parking garages are available but can fill up quickly on busy days.

The market has wheelchair-accessible restrooms available on site. Given the crowds, especially on weekends and during peak summer months, visiting on a weekday morning will provide a more comfortable experience with wider clearances in the aisles. Some of the lower-level shops and narrower side corridors may be tighter to move through.

However, individual experiences may vary depending on which areas you plan to visit, as the market is a collection of many independent businesses in a historic building complex. Contact Pike Place Market's information desk for the most current accessibility details and to ask about specific vendor locations or routes through the market.

More accessible places in Washington

• Klondike Gold Rush - Seattle Unit National Historical Park (Seattle)
• The Museum of Flight (Seattle)
• Seattle Art Museum (Seattle)
• Wing Luke Museum (Seattle)
• Chihuly Garden and Glass (Seattle)
• Space Needle (Seattle)