8 Fun Things Every First-Timer Should Do at Pike Place Market in Seattle

Get the Most Out of Your Fun Market Trip

Pike Place Market is one of the oldest farmers’ markets on the West Coast and a must-do for anyone visiting Seattle.

If it’s your first, it can definitely be overwhelming. It’s huge, crowded, and there’s stuff happening everywhere. 

But there are some things you just can’t miss when you’re at Pike Place Market, starting with these eight things to do there.

Watch Fresh Salmon Fly

Make this stop #1 on your Pike Place Market itinerary. Located at Pike Place Fish Market, under the iconic “Public Market Center” sign, fishmongers just straight-up throw huge salmon and halibut through the air. These shows happen all day whenever someone orders.

Order a Grande at the Original Starbucks Store

Right outside on Pike Street, there’s the old-school Starbucks from 1976. They kept all the original vibes and that iconic mermaid logo everybody knows. 

You can only get their special Pike Place Market beans here, plus some cool cups you won’t find anywhere else.

Make Your Mark at The Wall of Gum (Gross but Cool)

Down in Post Alley, under the main market, there’s this wall that people have been sticking gum on for decades. They cleaned it in November 2024, but everyone’s already adding more.

Gross? Yes. Cool? Absolutely. So chew some gum as you head to the wall and join this strange part of Pike Place Market History.

Eat, Eat, Eat

You NEED to order a bowl of the famous Pike Place Chowder when you’re at the market. Side of fries is optional but highly recommended.

Then hit up Chukar Cherries for these chocolate-covered Rainier cherries you’ll be craving all the time from now on. The seafood vendors are all over, and you should try samples from each one as well. 

Rub Rachel’s Nose for Good Luck

There’s this big bronze pig near the entrance – that’s Rachel the Piggy Bank, the unofficial mascot of Pike Place Market. She ain’t just decoration, though. 

Rachel serves as a donation point for market social services, and pulls in thousands of dollars annually for community programs. Rub her nose for good luck, and don’t forget to drop some money in her slot.

Explore the Lower Levels and MarketFront

Allot an hour or two for the lower levels at Pike Place Market where you’ll find over 200 unique shops. There are even art galleries there. Check out the Producer’s Hall for locally made products, and visit the MarketFront expansion for additional vendors and great views.

Watch Local Performers

The market’s got entertainment all over. Street performers are doing their thing, comedians doing improv that’s actually funny, and you can catch live music pretty much anywhere you turn in the market. 

Join in an impromptu performance if you like; everyone’s very friendly here.

Snap a Photo with That Classic Market Sign

Of course you need to do this. Want that perfect shot? Cross the street to 1st & Pine. You get about 25 seconds every 3 minutes when the light changes to get your pic with the Pike Place Market sign. 

While you’re in the market, join the new Market Bingo activity to test your luck and win exciting prizes.