At first glance, it might see as if Pike Place Market is just another tourist trap. After all it’s located in downtown Seattle, Washington’s largest city, it sits right by the bustling waterfront, and it’s one of the most photographed places in the Pacific Northwest.

But the truth is, our iconic Pike Place is so much more. Not only is it loaded with local history (and possibly a couple of ghosts), but it’s utilized by locals far more than tourists. And if you go often enough, you’ll find some amazing hidden gems.

Pike Place Market—which should never, under any circumstances, be called “Pike’s Place” or “Pike’s Market”—spans nine acres in the heart of downtown Seattle.

Pike Place Market / Facebook This is usually the first place tourists head when they make a stop while on a cruise or when they fly in from another state. But you’re just as likely to see someone who lives in the neighborhood picking up ingredients for dinner as you are a tourist taking a selfie.

Pike Place was founded in 1907, making it one of the oldest and largest continuously operating public markets in the United States.

Seattle Municipal Archives / Flickr The market is said to be haunted by Princess Angeline, Chief Sealth’s oldest daughter who defiantly lived in a shack below Pike Street during a time when Native Americans were not allowed to live in the area. Its other most famous ghost is Frank Goodwin, one of the original founders of the market. Goodwin, who died in 1954, has been spotted near his old office, which is now the basement of the Alibi Room.

Most people associate Pike Place with its famously thrown fish, fresh seafood, and an abundance of produce brought in from all over the Northwest…

James Joel / Flickr

… and of course, there are the gorgeous displays of fresh flowers (and dried bouquets in the winter).

Pike Place Market / Facebook If you were born and raised in Western Washington, you probably know someone who wisely chose to get their wedding flowers here.

There are more than 500 vendors at the market at any given time, including more than 150 artists, jewelry designers, photographers, and makers that sell their products in the Crafts Market.⁣

Pike Place Market / Facebook Each item sold on those craft tables is locally made by hand, so you know you’re getting quality goods when you’re here.

When you visit, you should come hungry. After all, Beecher’s, Pike Place Chowder, and Ellenos Greek Yogurt are here (and that’s just a few of the most famous food stops).

Pike Place Market / Facebook To see the spot where Tom Hanks sat while filming Sleepless in Seattle, have lunch at the Athenian. And if you’re in the mood for some fine dining, you’ll have your choice of places like Maximilien and the gorgeous Pink Door (pictured here).

Pike Place Market also happens to be home to some hidden gems that are fit for foodies, like Pasta Casalinga.

Pasta Casalinga / Facebook It’s possible to visit a dozen different times and never eat the same thing twice.

No matter what you choose to eat, you can enjoy it in the MarketFront seating area.

Pike Place Market / Facebook And don’t forget to take in the views from the MarketFront viewing deck… or better yet, grab a beer at Old Stove Brewing for the sunset.

Pike Place Market is full of delightful treasures and rich history.

Tiffany Van Arnim / Flickr Best of all, the market hosts dozens and dozens of events all year long, from night markets to flower festivals.

Did you learn anything about Pike Place Market here? How do you prefer to spend your time there?

Pike Place Market / Facebook

This is usually the first place tourists head when they make a stop while on a cruise or when they fly in from another state. But you’re just as likely to see someone who lives in the neighborhood picking up ingredients for dinner as you are a tourist taking a selfie.

Seattle Municipal Archives / Flickr

The market is said to be haunted by Princess Angeline, Chief Sealth’s oldest daughter who defiantly lived in a shack below Pike Street during a time when Native Americans were not allowed to live in the area. Its other most famous ghost is Frank Goodwin, one of the original founders of the market. Goodwin, who died in 1954, has been spotted near his old office, which is now the basement of the Alibi Room.

James Joel / Flickr

If you were born and raised in Western Washington, you probably know someone who wisely chose to get their wedding flowers here.

Each item sold on those craft tables is locally made by hand, so you know you’re getting quality goods when you’re here.

To see the spot where Tom Hanks sat while filming Sleepless in Seattle, have lunch at the Athenian. And if you’re in the mood for some fine dining, you’ll have your choice of places like Maximilien and the gorgeous Pink Door (pictured here).

Pasta Casalinga / Facebook

It’s possible to visit a dozen different times and never eat the same thing twice.

And don’t forget to take in the views from the MarketFront viewing deck… or better yet, grab a beer at Old Stove Brewing for the sunset.

Tiffany Van Arnim / Flickr

Best of all, the market hosts dozens and dozens of events all year long, from night markets to flower festivals.

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Address: Pike Place Market, Seattle, WA, USA