Pike Place Market for Kids

Seattle’s iconic Pike Place Market (*pikeplacemarket.org) is a feast for the senses, with plenty to entice tots and teens. Encounter myriad delectable food options, quirky street performers, Instagram-worthy views, and unique sites for kids to discover in the nine-acre historic district.

Enter at First Avenue and Pike Street, with the neon Public Market Center sign overhead. Pose for a photo with Rachel the Piggy Bank—the Market’s 550-pound bronze mascot—on your way to visit the renowned Pike Place Fish Market (86 Pike Pl; pikeplacefish.com). The fishmongers can liven up any crowd as they enthusiastically toss around the fish purchased by passersby.

The lower level of the market hosts a treasure trove of delights. Golden Age Collectables (1501 Pike Pl, Ste 401; goldenagecollectables.com) captivates teens with an array of comic books, graphic novels, and Star Wars and other movie nostalgia.

When it’s time for a tasty treat, enjoy a slice of history—and a Frappuccino—at the very first Starbucks (*1912 Pike Pl; starbucks.com). Or, for adventurous palates, Rachel’s Ginger Beer (1530 Post Alley; rachelsgingerbeer.com) offers fruity, nonalcoholic ginger beer, cocktails like Moscow Mules on tap for the adults, and even ginger beer floats.

On the sweets front, the sugary fried goodness at Daily Dozen Doughnut Company (93 Pike St) is a kid-pleaser, where mini doughnuts coated in cinnamon and sugar are tossed and served piping hot in a brown paper bag.

Before departing the market, pop over to the infamous Gum Wall, a quirky spot in Post Alley blanketed in a colorful array of chewing gum. Although 2,350 pounds of gum were cleared away from the wall last winter, the new collection is growing fast. Add your own gooey piece and join in this madcap Seattle tradition.

*Visit Seattle Partner