Seattle’s Pike Place Market in an Afternoon

It’s always fun to find those new, untouched places while traveling. But if you’re like us, you also like to hit the classics! Seattle has many landmarks, but one of the more famous ones is Seattle’s Pike Place Market, located in the heart of downtown, just 30 minutes from the Seattle Escape Camper Vans rental location.

Getting There

Our trip to Seattle’s Pike Place Market started in Olympic National Park, so we crossed Elliot bay via the Bainbridge Ferry which was incredible, and very reasonably priced. Elliot Bay is just beautiful, and we heard you can often spot dolphins or even whales from time to time, although we didn’t see any. As you approach Seattle, get your cameras ready because the view of the Seattle skyline from the bay is something to behold. Our girls loved being outside and hearing the water crash against the boat, and then running inside to grab a hot pretzel!

Once we made it to the downtown area we struggled to find parking. Make sure you have a couple of extra dollars to spare to park. We were lucky enough to find outside parking and made our way down to Pike Place’s Market! Wow, it was FILLED with gorgeous flowers & fresh produce! Remy had the ‘best apple I’ve ever had” (in her three-year-old little life!). It’s a very busy market and packed with tourists. So be ready to go with the crowd.

The First Starbucks

If you’re a coffee lover like me, you simply can’t visit Seattle’s Pike Place Market without stopping by the first Starbucks! Interestingly, this isn’t the first location, but it is the original. You’ll find it across the street from the market with the original brown mermaid, not green! As you wait in line (most likely in the rain being in Seattle) it’ll be worth it. Inside is small, walk in and out, but the people are SO kind and truly having a great time preparing your one-of-a-kind coffee.

Bubble Gum Wall

“Let’s go down this cute alley,” I said, not knowing I would stumble on the weirdest thing I’ve ever wanted to do. There it was, a ‘grammar’s dream — the bubble gum wall!  It’s located right under the marketplace. Crazy enough, cars still try and use this road. With the hoards of people flooding the streets to take photos, I’m not sure why they even try to get through! I’m sure they get gummed daily.

Anyway, it was pretty packed when we were there and you can tell who was there for the gum and who was there for the gram pictures!! You can purchase gum in the market for a couple of bucks – so be sure and do that on your way down. Pro tip: have poofy hair or mean kids with you, you will have an issue.

The Fish Market

One of Josh’s interesting bucket list items was watching the fish being tossed around the market with the yelling men. Hmm, ok I guess I don’t have any room to talk. I was excited about chewed up bubble gum. We all have our thing! The fishermen were extremely fun and J came face to face with a fish. Dreams do come true.

The day was a bit chilly with the rain and slight breeze but looking back, the main thing I remember is the warm vibes. Such a unique marketplace and definitely worth exploring.

Before you leave, be sure to stop by Piroshky’s Bakery. Their infamous Russian pastries are insane. You can’t go wrong with any flavor from sweet to salty! We liked the apple cinnamon!  Are you in the mood for a unique experience?  Book an Escape campervan and enjoy your afternoon with the family at Seattle’s Pike Place Market!