There are many great food choices within the Market District. This itinerary highlights a few that have a little “extra” to captivate children and parents alike.
Good to know
Pike Place Market is open all year, but do keep in mind that, with the exception of summer, it can be rainy. Umbrellas are a good idea.
Recommended day/time
Early morning is great to beat the crowds.
Recommended time of the year
Fun all year, but spring and summer months are best, as there is a wider variety of produce and flowers on display.
Save Money
Buy local fresh produce and other treats from the vendors to create a delicious and inexpensive lunch.
About This Day
Visiting Pike Place Market is one of the best things for kids to do in Seattle. Children can watch fish “fly” at the fish market, taste yummy samples at the produce markets and more. Home to the original Starbucks and a host of other wonderful establishments, Pike Place Market a fun day out for both parents and kids alike. You'll see and taste delicious local fare, meet interesting people and get a taste for what makes Seattle the special place it is. Bonus: You’ll be able to create a delicious and inexpensive lunch.
What’s so special about a fish market? Pike Place is famous for literally throw the fish through the air! Once you’ve placed your order, heads up, because whatever you ordered will be thrown across the counter and possibly back and forth a few more times before it’s finally wrapped up.
DIRECTIONS Pike Place Market is located just under the Pike Place Market sign at the start of the Market.
There are many produce vendors in the market that offer beautiful fresh produce. What makes Sosio’s stand out is its customer experience. The people working at Sosio’s are as nice as can be, answering questions, offering samples and in general just welcoming everyone who comes by.
DIRECTIONS Head north From Pike Place Fish and Sosio's will be on the left-hand side.
3
Flower Stalls
1901-1919 Post Alley, Seattle
FREE
Interspersed between the fish, produce and other food vendors are fresh cut flowers by the dozens. Stall after stall of fresh-cut blooms in every shade of the rainbow. Not only are the flowers lovely to look at, the prices are more than fair, with bunches in the $10-$12 range.
TIP Why not pick up a bunch of flowers to brighten up your hotel room?
4
Mee Sum Pastry
1526 Pike Place, Seattle
$$$
There are many great food choices within the Market District, but if you're looking for something a little less formal, Mee Sum is perfect! Mee Sum Pastry offers many authentic Chinese snacks, including protein options and dessert items. This is a great spot to grab something to enjoy while you're walking around.
DIRECTIONS Located just across the street from the flower vendors within the Market.
TIP We love the BBQ Pork on a stick and the bao as they are both easy to eat with little to no mess.
Your kids will love posing with Rachel the Pig, the Market’s “mascot” and a very popular attraction. More than just a popular photo opportunity, Rachel is a true piggy bank, having raised over $200,000 since she arrived in 1986. You'll feel great about depositing some coins into Rachel, as the money is used to support local a food bank, a senior service center, a neighborhood health clinic and a preschool/daycare.
DIRECTIONS Rachel is located just in front of the Pike Place Fish Co.