Find Seattle’s thriving culture at Pike Place Market

The Pike Place Market, also named the “Soul of Seattle,” is one of the city’s oldest, and most popular, tourist attractions. Open since 1907, the market place provides the best site to experience Seattle’s thriving culture.The market has a remarkable history. When the price of onions reached unbearable heights, local councilman Thomas Revelle suggested starting the market. This way, the companies supplying the product would be removed, and customers could find cheaper prices by dealing directly with the local growers. On Pike Place’s first day, the market was crowded with roughly 10,000 people. The market has been a success ever since.There’s truly something to suit everybody’s taste, from a delicious farmer’s market, to antiques, artwork, music, crafts, and clothing, the market has it all. One favorite for residents and visitors is Pike Place Fish. This infamous fish market provides the best fresh and smoked Salmon, as well as specialty fish steaks (such as Swordfish and Yellowfin Tuna (Ahi)).But Pike Place is home to more than an assortment of fresh produce and local crafts. In-fact, one of the world’s biggest coffee companies would also get their start in Pike Place Market. The first Starbucks opened, and has remained open, since 1971. Now, the original Starbucks offers locals and tourists great tasting coffee for their shopping excursion.If you’re not a coffee drinker, there’s also a wine restaurant. The Tasting Room offers wines from 7 different Washington State wineries. From Camaraderie Cellars to Wineglass Cellars, wine connoisseurs can expect to enjoy top quality wine. For pricing and hours, visit The Tasting Room’s website.And for the ultimate piece of art, check out the gum wall. Yes, that does mean a wall coated in nothing but globs of gum. Perhaps not the best sight for OCD guests.For a full list of what Pike Place market has to offer, be sure to check out their merchant listing.