With a knockout view of Elliott Bay, the hub of the city brims with Northwest goods and sea fare quirk.

by Contributor

The Experience
Whether you're catching a ferry or dying for fudge, this is the place. Shops carry anything with the "Seattle" mark: Native arts, jewelry and Space Needle pepper grinders. Street cars and horse-drawn carriages offer a bit of touristy nostalgia, while telescopes atop Pier 57 at Waterfront Park offer a close-up of the isles. The kids will love the Aquarium and Omnidome. The Pike Street Hill Climb leads to more explorations and intriguing shops around Pike Place Market.

The Background
From the Duwamish Indians to the pioneers to Henry Yesler, the waterfront grew to facilitate the booming fishing and shipbuilding industries. It remains one of the largest ports connecting the U.S. to the Pacific Rim. Be sure to go on weekends during the summertime for live entertainment.

06/16/03

Pike's Market

by MarHav

I have been twice to visit and am now in the process of moving from N.Y. to Olympia WA. It is the most exciting state I have ever visited and the places of interest is by far the best.

Can't wait to get settled there.

Thank you for sharing your town with me!!

07/01/02

Spectacular on a Rare Sunny Day

by mstampley_citysearch

The sunset is absolutely stunning on a clear day. Pick up some fresh raw oysters and chowder along a pier and grab a seat outside for the awe-inspiring display. Overcast as usual? With its endless charm, entertaining vendors and balance of locals and tourists, Pike Place is always a good option.

• Pros: great on a clear day
• Cons: can be really cold