Pike Place Market in Seattle, Washington

The Pike Place Market in Seattle, Washington is the oldest continuously operating open-air market and is known far and wide as the granddaddy of all farmers markets. And now I know why. Pike Place stretches on and on with vendors hawking everything from farm fresh veggies, to flowers, to food, to souvenirs to every kind of fish you can extract from the northern Pacific ocean.

If you want a taste (or five) of the world famous smoked salmon, just walk past one of the several fish vendors. They’ll be happy to give you a taste. The fish stall at the Market’s main entrance is definitely the main attraction with the boys wearing suspenders and tossing fish around like a game of hot potato. Any vendor will pack to ship or you can get the box to go for about $15.00.

To the rear of the market, there is a spot for sitting with a decent water view. It is enclosed, which I guess is necessary in a place with Seattle’s infamous rainy weather. From there, you can take the stairs or elevator down to the Waterfront. Tours of the market are available by reservation at 11:00 am and 2:00 pm daily. To book a tour, call (206) 682-7453.

The Market is definitely worth a stop, even if it’s just to purchase a “My Friend Went to Seattle and All I Got is This Lousy T-Shirt” t-shirt for somebody back home. It is easily accessible by bus, or there are parking garages within walking distance.