Pike Place Market is called the calling card of Seattle. The public market is considered one of the most popular places in Washington State. The alternative name is the Pike Market, and according to statistics, more than 20 million people visit it per year. It is open every day except Christmas and Thanksgiving.
History of creation
The Pike Place Market was opened on the initiative of Thomas Plummer Revell, a member of the city Council, in August 1907. This was made possible by the decree of 1896, which allowed the city to allocate land for public markets. The main arcade on the market has been operating since the end of November 1907.
The demand for retail space increased, and after 2 years the number of available places increased by 2 times. The western part was nicknamed the "dry row", as the shopping malls here were covered with a canopy. In 1917, the market expanded. There have been repeated proposals to demolish Pike Place Market, but each time a decision was made to leave the facility. It was necessary to make several changes, including increasing the area. Thanks to this, it was possible to preserve the historical value of the place.
Short description
Pike Place Market occupies 36,421.74 square meters, it was built on the edge of a hill, so it consists of several lower levels located below the main site. There are unique shops on the territory of each of them, including antique shops, souvenir shops and comic book pavilions. On the upper level, you can buy groceries and visit craft shops.
Farmers and artisans work annually, displaying their products in the shopping malls. This allows customers to personally communicate with manufacturers and ask questions, while remaining confident that they will receive complete answers with all the necessary information. Clothes, shoes and accessories are also sold here.
It is known that approximately 500 people live in 8 different buildings on the market. Previously, it was housing only for the poor. The PDA office ensures that the Seattle business card operates legitimately and continues to thrive. In the 1980s, a non-profit organization was established to raise funds and manage a free clinic, a center for the elderly, homes for the poor, and a kindergarten.
Attractions
Among the key attractions is the Pike Place fish Market, which is known not only in Washington, but also in other states of America, as well as abroad. The workers do not pass 3-foot salmon and other fish, but throw them to each other, and it looks spectacular. So, the customer says what he needs, and the employee standing behind the counter throws the fish over the countertop. His colleague catches the order and prepares it for sale.
Starbucks, which originally operated on Western Avenue, appeared here in 1971. After 6 years, he moved 1 block further to Pike Place, where he still receives visitors. At first, it was a store where you could buy coffee, tea or spices. Now you can only buy coffee, and not only locals, but also tourists come here.
What else can I visit
Tenzing Momo Pharmacy, founded in 1977, operates on the territory of Pike Place Market. Translated from the Tibetan language, the name translates as "divine dumpling". In this place, you can buy natural herbs and get advice on their use. A Spice Market with exotic plant substances is open nearby.
People come to the market because it is convenient for them to buy different goods on the territory of the same complex. In addition, going shopping, you can get to the performance of street musicians. They perform classical melodies, you can hear modern hits and original compositions. In between purchases, you can have breakfast, lunch or dinner in cafes and restaurants, which are represented in large numbers.
The unofficial mascot of the market
Since 1986, there has been a piggy bank on the corner of Pike Place in the form of a bronze pig named Rachel, which weighs 250 kilograms. It was installed under a sign pointing to a public market center. The mascot is the work of artist Georgia Gerber. She created her in the image of another pig, also named Rachel, who lived on Whidbey Island. The slot for the money is located on top of the sculpture. Anyone can leave donations. It is estimated that Rachel receives up to $9,000 a year in all currencies of the world. The funds received are used to finance the social services of the market.
How to get
Pike Place Market is located on the coast of Pacific Elliot Bay, in the city center. Some hotels and attractions can be reached on foot. Buses are suitable. 177, 4, 550, 62, 70. Rapid Ride routes are suitable: C Line (for those who are in West Seattle), D Line (for those who travel from Ballard), E Line (for residents of the north). The Westlake tram and monorail stop near the market. You can also come here by ferry or use the services of a regular or water taxi.
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