Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
I love Seattle! From the gorgeous green Washington landscape to the wide variety of authentic and tasty restaurants, it has something for every traveler.
I heard so much about the infamous Pike Place Market that I was beyond excited to visit during my trip to Washington. It completely exceeded my expectations. But one place stood out: the flower stands at Pike Place Market!
Pike Place Market
First let’s talk a little about PIkes place incase you haven’t visited it. Pike Place Market was established in 1907. It was used as a direct link between farmers and consumers, bypassing middlemen and ensuring fair prices for both.
It was named after the central street, Pike Place, and was initially created to help with Seattle’s high cost of living at the time.
Today people visit from all over to experience the market, from locals shopping for groceries to visitors taking souvenrios home with then.
One of the most notable attractions is the Pike Place Fish Market, famous for its fishmongers who famously toss fish to each other and customers, creating a lively atmosphere.
Pike Place Market is home to hundreds of vendors, selling everything from fresh produce, flowers, seafood, and artisanal crafts to specialty foods, antiques, and collectibles.
The Flower Stands of Pike Place
Of all the stands I visited, the flower stands at Pike Place Market were my favorite! I love nothing more than having fresh flowers in the house all year. Being able to marvel at the creations of the florists was just one of the perks.
The most significant percentage of Pike Place flower vendors today are Hmong farmers. Hmong refugees started coming to the United States in the 1980s from Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand. The U.S. promised them resettlement in America if, in turn, they would help the CIA during the Vietnam War.
Today, most flower stand farmers at Pike Place Market are from Hmong, and the stands help support their families and children. You are genuinely supporting locals and their families when you buy a bouquet. It’s worth every penny since their flowers are also some of the most stunning I have ever seen.
The stand owners were helpful when explaining each bouquet and even curating one for you. I told them what colors and styles I liked, and they guided me to one that fit my description.
They have rows and rows of flowers! It was hard to choose but after an hour of debating I left with this one.
They were very affordable too! Ranging from $10 – $30, depending on the size and style you want.
Can You Fly Pike Place Flowers Home?
Yes! I bought a bouquet right before our trip to the airport. I effortlessly brought the bouquet through security. Just ensure no water is in the bag and pour that out before security.
Once you are through security, refill the bag with water and secure it with a rubber band. This will keep the flowers safe and hydrated during your journey home.
I flew with them for 4 hours, and they held up great! They lasted all week too, being my littler reminder of my trip to Seattle.
Even though I felt a little bizarre standing at the airport with a bouquet, I saw a few others doing the same. Once you see how beautiful they are, you won’t be able to resist either.
Pike Place Market Hours
The market in Seattle typically operates seven days a week, year-round, with slightly varying hours for different sections of the market. Here are the general operating hours.
Main Market: Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Sunday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Farmers Market: Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Sunday: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Always check their website before visiting!
Where Is Pike Place Market?
The flower stands are located right in Pike Place Market.
What do you think? Would you buy a bouquet during your next visit to Seattle?
Where Do You Want To Travel Next?