Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market, originally a farmers market, was founded in 1907 when housewives complained that middlemen were raising the price of produce. The market allowed shoppers to buy directly from producers and thus save on grocery bills. For several decades, the market thrived. However, World War II deprived the market of nearly half its farmers when Japanese Americans were moved to internment camps. With the postwar flight to the suburbs, the market was never able to recover from the war years, and by the 1960s, the market was no longer the popular spot it had been. When it was announced that the site was being eyed for a major redevelopment project, a grass-roots movement arose to save the 9-acre market and, eventually, the market was declared a National Historic District.

These days the market bustles from dawn to dusk, but the 100 or so farmers and fishmongers who set up shop on the premises are only a small part of the attraction. You'll also find more than 150 local craftspeople and artists selling their creations as street performers serenade milling crowds. Hundreds of small specialty shops are scattered throughout the market, plus dozens of restaurants, including some of the city's best. At the information booth almost directly below the large PIKE PLACE MARKET sign, you can pick up a free map and guide to the market. Keep an eye out for low-flying fish at the Pike Place Fish stall, and be sure to save some change for Rachel, the market's giant charity piggy bank.

Victor Steinbrueck Park, at the north end of the market at the intersection of Pike Place, Virginia Street, and Western Avenue, is a popular lounging area for both the homeless and those just looking for a grassy spot in the sun. In the park, you'll see two 50-foot-tall totem poles.

To get a glimpse behind the scenes at the market and learn all about its history, you can take a 1-hour guided Market Heritage Tour (tel. 206/774-5249 for information and reservations). Tours are offered Monday through Friday at 10am; the cost is $10 for adults and $7 for seniors and children under 18. Reservations are required and should be made at least a day in advance. Tours depart from the market's Information Booth at the corner of Pike Street and First Avenue. There are also free tours on Saturday at 9am. These tours leave from Rachel, the market piggy bank, and reservations are not required.

The market's "Gum Wall" is a bit of a sticky subject. No one can agree whether it is art or just a disgusting form of litter. Maybe you'll have to decide for yourself. You'll find the chewing-gum-covered wall just down Pike Street (actually a cobbled alley) from the market information booth. The wall is across the street from the Alibi Room bar.

Also, if you're going to be in town in October, consider attending the annual Feast at the Market (tel. 206/548-3063; www.pikemed.org/feast), a showcase for food from market restaurants.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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