Tag: Pike Place Market

8 Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Seattle

With access to everything, everywhere mere steps from our doors at The Emerald – in true Seattle fashion, we never let a few raindrops get in our way of a good time. Grab your rain jacket and boots and embrace Seattle’s rainy days. Whether you want to get on the water, learn something new, or just want to snap a great selfie, there’s something on this list made for you. Our location at The Emerald opens up to a vibrant mix of local cafés, fresh markets, exceptional shopping, A-list restaurants, and world-class museums and galleries. And Elliott Bay just outside our front door – highlighted by the new waterfront redevelopment and its reimagined plazas, parks and paths connecting the city and the Sound like never before. Rain or shine, Seattle is yours for the taking!

 

 

Make your way to the MoPOP (Museum of Pop Culture). MoPOP is home to the world’s most immersive pop culture experiences, showcasing iconic moments in TV, rock n roll music, science fiction, and much more. There’s enough at MoPOP to keep you busy all day long, so allocate at least a few hours. Visit here for current exhibitions and events.

 

Be blown away by Glass Art at Seattle Glassblowing. Bring a hot shop experience into your own home and watch live while a professional glassblower creates a piece of art just for you. The piece will be shipped direct to you and is yours to keep. Want to get out and spy some amazing art in person? Chihuly Garden and Glass always stuns. Whether it’s your first or tenth time seeing it, it’s particularly mesmerizing being inside the glass structure when it’s raining outside. Tip: Watch for the opening of The Bar at Chihuly Garden and Glass which will offer craft cocktails and delicious bites in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

 

Explore Seattle Central Library, a favorite thing to do on any rainy day in Seattle. This unique building is a great place to get lost in a good story or find a new book to read at home. Thanks to the glass and steel structure, this is also one of the most Instagrammable spots in Seattle. With huge glass walls, bright yellow escalators, vivid red hallways, and art all over the place, the Central Library is large enough to hang out at for a while. If you go to the top floor, you can also admire a really nice view of the water.

 

Go ahead. Strike a pose and snap a Selfie at the Original Selfie Museum. This photography studio art space allows you to take pictures and videos with your phone or camera using professional settings, props and light. Charge your phone and enjoy your selfie in the most Instagram-able place in the nation.

 

Catch a show at the Paramount Theatre. Opened in 1928 as the Seattle Theatre, the opulent Paramount Theatre is widely known as the premier performing arts venue in town. With lavish decoration reminiscent of the Palace of Versailles, and a lively roster of vaudeville shows and silent movies, the theatre was the place to be in the Roaring Twenties, and nowadays it’s just as popular.

 

Take a walk along the waterfront and Ferry to Bainbridge Island. Venturing out along the water is easy from our iconic downtown address. The Pacific Northwest beauty of a Bainbridge Island ferry ride from the middle of downtown Seattle is stunning, but the destination this ferry ride grants you is even better. This easy escape from the city offers up opportunity to unplug with scenic vistas, beautiful trails, ultra-local wine tasting, and outdoor adventures. From fine food to the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to bring your bike onboard, it’s a great spot for some scenic cycling.

 

Pop open the umbrella and enjoy some puddles. Savor your favorite cup of coffee and people watch at our neighboring Pike Place. Did you know? The story of Starbucks begins in 1971 along the cobblestone streets of Seattle’s historic Pike Place Market. Grab a cup of coffee at the original Starbucks (or for the full roasting and tasting experience visit the original’s big brother in Capitol Hill), stroll to the top floor of the Corner Market Building for a Storyville sunrise paired with a frosted cinnamon roll, or grab an espresso from a intimate and definitely haunted nook at Ghost Alley.

 

Dive into an undersea experience without ever getting wet at the Seattle Aquarium. A short walk from our doors at The Emerald, the aquarium invites you to wander through the enchanting moon jellyfish ring, toward the giant Pacific octopus. Next, enter the dreamlike underwater dome for a 360-degree view of the Puget Sound aquatic ecosystem. Finish your playful trip with a visit to the ever-adorable otter and seal exhibits.

 

We’ve only listed a few of the many things to do on a rainy Seattle day, get creative and don’t let the rain hold you back from enjoying all our amazing city offers. Discover our defining address. The Emerald is 70% sold and 1-bedroom prices start from $499,000 with move-in ready residences now available. From impressive places to entertain, to calm escapes for wellness and solitude – endless memories and moments await at The Emerald.

DITL: A Walk Down Post Alley

The Emerald’s premiere location at Second and Stewart places you in the center of downtown Seattle – just one block from the iconic Pike Place Market, steps from the waterfront and surrounded by the city’s best culinary and cultural destinations. Considered by many “the soul of Seattle,” the Market spans nine historic acres in the center of downtown where everyday locals and tourists alike shop, visit, eat and discover. Whether you visit Pike Place daily or have never been, you are sure to discover something new. Within the Market, you’ll find Post Alley which was created with cobblestones from the 1906 San Francisco earthquake brought here on lumber ships that were using the stones and rubble for ballast. The street was originally named Post Street or Post Avenue for the first U.S. post office in Seattle, opened in 1880 on the corner of Yesler Way, which may also have been the city’s first United States Government building. It also served home to the first offices of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer Newspaper. View Post Alley: Seattle’s most charming street in photos.

 

 

Join us as we play tourist in our own back yard. Take a stroll down Post Alley to discover some insider tips and well-known Seattle secrets…

 

Along the quaint Post Alley at Seattle’s Pike Place Market awaits one of the city’s most beloved restaurant destinations since 1981: The Pink Door. Offering an unpretentious escape from the everyday with a classic, produce-driven menu, a convivial atmosphere fueled by her warm, friendly staff, and entertainment such as trapeze, cabaret, music, and tarot. Whether nestled inside the dining room, relaxing in the lounge or outside on the view deck overlooking Elliot Bay, the mysterious alchemy of The Pink Door’s food, ambience and service create a habit-forming experience.

 

Some other great sit-down restaurant spots alongside the Alley include: Sushi Kashiba with Chef Kashiba – a three-time James Beard Outstanding Chef Nominee at the helm, Matt’s in the Market which is a local favorite for the Cornmeal Crusted Catfish Sandwich and amazing views, and Radiator Whiskey – the name says it all, but don’t forget to order the Tots and lots of toppings.

 

Get ready for late-night comedy that’s fun for all ages! Unexpected Productions Improv is Seattle’s oldest, and most successful Improvisational Theater Company. The troupe has called Pike Place Market home since 1991. Their shows are improvised, based on audience suggestions. Unexpected Productions produces year-round shows, teaches improv classes, and hosts the Seattle International Festival of Improvisation.

 

Sisters European Cafe specializes in European-inspired grilled sandwiches, soups, and salads. Their outdoor seating in Pike Place Market’s Post Alley makes for a truly European vibe. This spot has great soup and salad options for vegetarians. Stop by for breakfast or lunch!

 

Make a pitstop at Rachel’s Ginger Beer. Partnering with local farmers, this drinkable cheer is made in Seattle using fresh lemons, strong ginger roots, organic cane sugar, and top-quality water. Their simple ingredients are key; brought together and brewed to taste.

 

Step right up and grab your favorite bowl. These world-famous chowders have been being served in our neighborhood for 20-years! Simmered fresh daily and handcrafted in small batches, Pike Place Chowder named America’s Favorite, is a must try. Famous for the briny, robust flavors of the PNW, with a remarkable variety of soul-satisfying, award-winning chowders, each bursting with the sparkling taste and aroma of premium seafood.

 

Jasmine Thai Restaurant is your number one source of Thai food at the Market. They’re dedicated to providing the very best of service, with an emphasis on authenticity alongside mouth-watering and freshly prepared ingredients. Try the Masaman Curry freshly made by Pranee the cook for 13+ years!

 

Craving Persian? Stop by Farvahar Persian Café for a taste of their flavorful dishes including kabobs, stewed meat and rice platters, sandwiches, soups, and salads.

 

Each morning, Pizza & Pasta Bar prepares their homemade sauces, pizza dough, and meats from scratch. Their food is carefully paired with Washington State wines and they keep two local brews rotating on tap. If you dine with them, you’ll notice that their tables are ornamented by fresh-cut flowers bought directly from farmers in the Market. They obsess over the little details, and that’s what drives their success.

 

Choose Los Agaves to experience authentic Mexican street food combined with Pacific Northwest ingredients offered by Jaime Mendez and his family who share some Mexico City flavors with us. Try the Chilaquiles for breakfast or the Tamal Oaxaqueno for lunch.

 

Enjoy the taste of Bolivia and enjoy what has been voted the best patio in Seattle at the Copacabana. Plan a Paella party and sip on some sangria! For over 50-years the restaurant has remained family-owned and operated, where they continue the original informal and friendly atmosphere.

 

Head down Post Alley toward the Market Theatre sign and get ready to enjoy an incredible atmosphere matched with equally amazing food and drinks. For nearly 40 years, IL Bistro has offered regional Italian cuisine in an intimate fine-dining setting. People flock here for their sophisticated sense of romance, consistently naming the dining room the “most romantic” in Seattle.

 

The Market Diner is home to the best burgers in the Market and a specialty Seattle cheesesteak made with gorgonzola cheese in a red wine demi-glace. Offering Caesar and spinach salads, alongside a variety of soups, there’s something for everyone!

 

The Alibi Room is an iconic hip hideaway of the Market. It has long been a favorite bar for Northwest authors, writers, and artists alike. Its speakeasy-style allure with exposed brick and wood beams gives it a cozy, comfortable vibe, and fantastic food and libations make this a staple for Post Alley visitors. The Alibi Room is known for its brick-oven pizzas, salads, and cocktails. Stop by for a delectable meal and refreshing beverage sure to satisfy the hungry tourist or resident alike!

 

Get your caffeine fix at Ghost Alley Espresso, a pint-sized coffee shop offering artisanal espresso drinks from small, Northwest roasters like Middle Fork Roasters handcrafted on a Slayer Espresso machine with in-house made syrups offered. Psst… The caramel is made with Applewood roasted sea salt and brown sugar!  And, this spot sells gum which is convenient for all your selfies at The Gum Wall.

 

If you’re looking to pick up a few Washington made items, wizard themed gifts, or grocery staples, Post Alley is waiting…

 

At Made in Washington, you’ll find gifts for yourself and gifts for the people you care about most. Whether you’re set on a charcuterie box, the most Seattle of coffees and teas, or supporting an up-and-coming artist, you’ll find something perfectly and uniquely Washington here.

 

Harry Potter enthusiast? Alabaster Owl is your destination for wizard home décor and castle-worthy antiques. Just step off the cobblestones of Pike Place Market into this tiny corridor which feels as secretive as Diagon Alley.

 

Calling all aficionados of Latin foods and Latin cooking, get ready for a wall of hot sauces and South American spices! El Mercado Latino is a family-owned and operated Latin grocery store. Every time you walk into this shop, you’ll discover something new, from their wall of hot sauces to unique spices from South America.

 

Choice Produce sits on the corner of Post Alley and Pike Place, a family-owned business providing the city with a splash of color and an affordable alternative to the large impersonal supermarkets. The peppers strings that line their stand are a unique reworking of an ancient practice. Bring one into your kitchen at The Emerald as an art piece, it will provide you with years of beauty. The peppers tell a familiar story as they slowly dry and preserve themselves.

 

And finally, a trip down Post Alley could never be complete without a visit to a hidden work of art dubbed The Gum Wall. This unexpected and colorful display is an intriguing representation of Seattle’s unique charm and character. The Gum Wall started in the 1990s when local patrons and performers at Unexpected Productions stuck their used gum on the wall. Since those days, the wall has grown piece by piece to cover an enormous expanse of brick and continues to expand down Post Alley. By the 2000s, the gum wall reached 50 feet wide and 15 feet in height. Portions of the Gum Wall now reach more than 20 feet in height. The famous Gum Wall is considered to be one of the largest and strangest public art projects in the world. Even as the city planned a clean-up, Seattleites formed a flash-mob to re-install the gum wall. We’re pretty sure that means it’s here to stay!

 

Stop to strike your own pose! Share your snap in front of the wall and tag us on Instagram @theemeraldseattle. The resulting colors and overall imagery are enough to catch the eye of any passersby. To visit, head down a ramp to the left of Pike Place Market’s iconic “Public Market Center” clock sign. At the bottom of the ramp, veer left into Post Alley and The Gum Wall will appear on both sides.

 

More than the city’s beloved public market, Pike Place Market is a vibrant neighborhood comprised of hundreds of farmers, craftspeople, small businesses and residents. Make it a Market day and share your stroll down Post Alley, just one block walk from The Emerald.

Dining Above All: ‘Friendsgiving’

Join Brooke and Kyle as they visit 3 favorite neighbors at Pike Place Public Market in preparation for a dinner with friends above all on The Emerald’s Outdoor Terrace with sweeping views of the Seattle waterfront and Mt. Rainier. Enjoy secret tips and insights as they source ingredients for the perfect dining experience from Pike and Western Wine Shop, DeLaurenti Food & Wine and Kitchen & Market. Fresh cut pasta? Soul Wine Society? The perfect ‘Friendsgiving’ spread? Pike and Western weighs-in on the 4 best Thanksgiving wines, Kitchen & Market shares the skinny on all the sides plus is offering a complete meal-kit made for 6-8 of your favorite people. Don’t miss the recipe for the perfect holiday cheese spread from DeLaurenti! We’re taking you through the video and sharing the recipe for a perfect meal with friends to celebrate the season.

 

 

The first stop is Pike & Western Wine Shop, where owner, Michael Teer takes us on a short tour. Arranged by regions, the popular retailer offers American wines, showcasing local Washington and Oregon wines as well as a few California offerings. They also have a nice European selection highlighted by a variety of French and Italian wines.

 

Brooke really loves the wonderful descriptions of each wine as she finds these helpful in making her selections. Pike & Western Wine Shop even has a discount club called the Soul Wine Society, where you can pay a subscription membership of $35 a year, $100 for lifetime, and receive a 15% discount off a regular retail price; their Soul Wine Society membership is a great opportunity for all the oenophiles out there. Read all about the membership opportunity here.

 

Pike and Western Wine Shop set out to find you the best wines for the season, keeping in mind what’s readily available, price points, overall quality and, of course, what goes well with the food!  After weeks of exploration, your local wine merchant has chosen their 4 favorite wines for your holiday meal…

 

NV Andreola Bollé Vino Spumante Rosato Extra Dry – Veneto, Italy

Soft and delicate with aromatics reminiscent of red wild berries, followed by a slight hint of floral notes, and a pleasant dry finish.  Seriously, there is no better wine to serve over Thanksgiving dinner than a dry or semi-dry vino spumante (aka sparkling wine) that is low in alcohol and packed with fruit aromatics! For starters, nothing says “special occasion” quite like bubbles do – especially if they come in a pink hue. Secondly, its bright and refreshing acidity along with a slight touch of effervescence makes it the perfect match for a multitude of flavors and textures since they offset the meal’s rich and heavy flavors. It’s also generally less expensive and more accessible than its French counterpart Champagne without sacrificing quality

 

2018 The Eyrie Vineyard Roland Green Pinot Noir – Willamette Valley, OR

The key here is to find a wine that compliments your meal as a whole without overshadowing the different range of dishes and flavors, and what better than Pacific Northwest Pinot Noir to get the job done? They show classic fall flavors of wild berries, tart cherries, and baking spices – which are all staple components in most Thanksgiving dinners and you can find exemplary offerings at pretty much every price point.

 

2020 Ver Sacrum Monastrell-Valle de Uco, Argentina

Ver Sacrum is an all-organic winery with very low intervention produced in Argentina. This is a bright and juicy red, on the lighter side but brims with ripe fruit that pairs well with just about any of your holiday fare. Reminiscent of a Beaujolais, it has a little more blue fruit and is really versatile.

 

2019 Dirler-Cade Muscat, Alsace, France

Muscat is a perennial holiday favorite, its bright peach and pear aromas make this wine a pleasure to smell, it becomes almost sweet but never quite gets there, with wildflower and Acacia, bone dry with great acidity helps it play well with just about everything on your table. Muscat’s bright fruit and great acidity makes this perfect for Turkey, Ham, roasted vegetables or the old-fashioned Jello mold.

 

Wine in hand, the team is off to Pike Place Public Market to grab some fresh produce for their bruschetta, as well as some shrimp for their pasta. For your ‘Friendsgiving’ spread, shop the Market for the ingredients to create a locally sourced, Pacific Northwest-inspired stuffing that is sure to satisfy your guests this holiday season. Visit here for the perfect Pike Place Thanksgiving Stuffing recipe.

 

Next stop is Kitchen & Market for some sides. Here you’ll always find great sides for every season and pre-packaged deliciousness. Kitchen & Market does an excellent job by having an interesting variety of dining meal kits not found in a typical grocery store.  When you can’t find what you need at the Market, Kitchen & Market fills the gap and delivers all you need to make or round-out your meals. It’s such a convenient amenity to enjoy near The Emerald and definitely a favorite among our residents. Leading up to Thanksgiving, both small and family-size sides will be available in-store, perfect for Friendsgiving and other early celebrations. Pick up your Autumn Squash Risotto, a lovely vegetarian entrée for two or a perfect side dish for four, plus leftover squash soup for lunch! The Pomegranate Smash Cocktail Kit makes 6-8 cocktails and includes hints of maple and all-spice. Mix it will Vodka, Prosecco or make it a mocktail. Looking for a one-stop-shop for the full feast? You’ve arrived at the right place. The Thanksgiving Feast Kit is made for 6-8 and includes  an oven-ready all-natural brined turkey stuffed with herbs and citrus, accompanied by all the classic side dishes: creamy mashed potatoes, turkey gravy, haricots verts with compound butter and toasted almonds, plenty of honey crisp apple and sage dressing, fresh cranberry sauce with spices and orange zest, and dinner rolls from Seattle’s Macrina Bakery. There’s even a Brown Sugar Pumpkin Pie Kit! Place your order by November 17th for delivery or in-store store pick up on the 22nd and 23rd.

 

Last stop is a little slice of Italy called DeLaurenti. DeLaurenti Food & Wine is your one-stop shop for truly authentic Italian items. For this dinner, Kyle is in search of parmesan cheese, charcuterie and fresh cut pasta, in this case linguini for the shrimp dish.  He makes sure to visit this popular spot at least once per week which is an easy walk when you reside at The Emerald. If you are preparing a beautiful spread for the holidays, DeLaurenti recommends these 12 cheeses complete with pairings. For a beautiful start to your Friendsgiving, try some Carboncino paired with crackers and a light Pal-Ale or a bottle of NV Andreola Bollé Vino Spumante Rosato Extra Dry from Pike and Western Wine Shop. For a main dish with all the seasonal flavors, be sure to pick up some Butternut Squash Ravioli to top with Brown Butter Sage Sauce. Find the recipe here.

 

Back at the Emerald, Brook and Kyle begin to prepare their meal featuring shrimp pasta as well as bruschetta and a nice charcuterie.  Now it’s time to relax, have a few glasses of wine and a delicious meal, all set to the stunning backdrop of water, Mt. Rainier and the Seattle skyline.

 

Watch for more local flavor as we highlight some of our favorite local attractions in our blog series, “A Day In The Life”. Experience guided video adventures by joining us on Instagram at @theemeraldseattle and following along as Brooke walks us through some of our ownership perks, get updates on Seattle’s new waterfront  and peruse picnic tips.

 

We invite you to explore The Emerald’s location, steps from the iconic Pike Place Market featuring 9-acres of amenities and 220+ independently owned shops and restaurants. It’s always an exciting day in the life when you live at The Emerald.  We’re now 70% sold! Take advantage of The Emerald’s incredible location by finding your move-in-ready home today and start exploring our remaining one-bedroom homes priced from $499k!

Experience Spring in Seattle

Spring is a lovely time in Seattle with vibrant colors from lush green parks to trees bursting cherry blossoms, and colorful bulbs lining walkways to the deep jewel colors of the Puget Sound with skies to match.  The Emerald’s premiere location at Second and Stewart places you in the center of downtown Seattle with Elliott Bay just steps away from your front door. It’s the perfect spot to begin any spring adventure. Whether you are looking to watch the blossoms unfold or celebrate them at an annual festival, take in some stunning views on the water or peddle along the Elliot Bay Trail enjoying the cool breeze of the Puget Sound, we’ve gathered a few springtime activities to enjoy moments from home.

 

 

Stroll through the Cherry Blossoms
The first Sakura trees arrived at the Port of Seattle from Japan in the early 20th century. Now they can be seen in many locations throughout the city showing off their fabulous bloom from late March through early April. Take it all in at the Seattle Center Cherry Blossom Festival  with Taiko drumming, live dances and performances, arts and crafts, food, and more! Or make your way to Seward Park where the very first three Cherry Trees were planted in 1929, which were then followed by 3,500 more throughout Seattle in 1930. Visit Washington Park Arboretum’s Azalea Way to enjoy cherry trees blossoming along Azalea Way and explore 230 acres of gardens, including a Japanese Garden. The first pink buds appear on the trees in early March. By mid-March, the earliest varieties start blooming along the city streets. The peak bloom lasts for about two weeks from late March to early April. Then flowers fade, and green leaves begin to unfold. Probably the most spectacular flower display takes place on the campus of the University of Washington (Quad). Hundreds of blooming trees line pathways and complement strict gothic buildings, which makes the campus especially beautiful. There’s even a half marathon dedicated to the blossoms.

 

Make it a Daffodil Day at Pike Place Market
Celebrate the first day of spring on March 20 with small businesses, vendors and farmers at Pike Place Market. For the last 25 years, Pike Place Market has celebrated the arrival of spring with daffodils. This year, stop by the Market to pick up your free small bundle of daffodils to brighten your day and join in the celebration.

 

The Seattle Waterfront Calls for Whale Watching
Kicking off in April, spend a day with orcas, humpback, minke whales and an expert naturalist as you cruise through the waters of the Salish Sea aboard our high-speed San Juan Clipper vessel on a San Juans whale watching adventure. Cruise under historic Deception Pass Bridge and enjoy a stopover in charming Friday Harbor on San Juan Island following your time spotting whales. With the waterfront at your doorstep, it’d convenient to hop on a ferry, water taxi or embark on an adventure like this. The best time of the year for whale watching starts in spring, so don’t miss out!

 

Dine Out During Seattle Restaurant Week
The perfect way to sample some neighborhood flavor, Seattle Restaurant Week returns April 3-16 offering prix fixe dining opportunities that support the greater Seattle area’s culinary community while highlighting its craft, diversity, resilience, and great food. Neighborhood restaurants such as IL Bistro, Conversation, Maximilien and more provide creative meals for one, two, or for a group to share. Don’t miss out on this unique chance to support local restaurants during Seattle’s largest dining celebration.

 

Get Rolling: May is Bike Month
Seattle consistently makes it into the top tier of Bicycling magazine’s list of the Best Bike Cities in America. Looking for a 2.5-mile loop through the Washington Park Arboretum? Maybe a peddle along the Elliot Bay Trail? Explore these great bike rides for people of all skill sets, whether you want to cruise through a park or all the way to a different city.

 

The Flower Festival Blooms at Pike Place
Over 40 tents will line Pike Place featuring flower farmers from King, Snohomish, and Whatcom Counties on May 7-8 with bouquets bursting with tulips, daffodils, irises, and the season’s favorite peonies. This annual tradition celebrates the amazing flowers that grow abundantly right here in the Pacific Northwest. Double the fun and bring Mom to the market for a fun-filled pre-day celebration on May 7 with live music, kids’ activities, pop-up murals, crafty sightings, craft demonstrations and more.

 

Raise a Glass at Seattle Beer Week

Join the greatest celebration of all things beer in Seattle as the Seattle Beer Week returns from May 13-21 for eleven days filled with craft beer events of all kinds. The festival is filled with exciting events including the Annual SBW Fun Run—a non-competitive mostly down-hill race through downtown. Fun prizes await participants at the finish with tasty Stout beers on draft at each stop of the race.

 

Watch it all Bloom at Washington Park Arboretum
The largest park in the Seattle area offers an amazing place to wander and watch spring in bloom. Walk the waterline trail, enjoy the plant life and make sure to stop by the 3.5 acre urban sanctuary, the Seattle Japanese Garden. Winding paths and benches invite you to view the garden slowly and mindfully, in all of its detail – stones, water, lanterns, bridges, buildings, plants and animals. Seasonal changes are constant, and every visit is refreshingly unique.

 

You Can Ferry There
Venturing out along the water is easy from our iconic downtown address. Hop on a ferry today and start exploring. Enjoy a ferry ride across Elliott Bay on the West Seattle Water Taxi from nearby Pier 50 and reserve your spot at Salty’s Seafood to catch a sunset with sweeping views of Elliott Bay and the Seattle city skyline. The Water Taxi docks in Seacrest Park in West Seattle with easy access to waterfront trails, Alki beach, fishing piers, restaurants, and shops along California Avenue. Another destination is Bainbridge Island. The Pacific Northwest beauty of a Bainbridge Island ferry ride from the middle of downtown Seattle is stunning, but the destination this ferry ride grants you is even better. This easy escape from the city offers up opportunity to unplug with scenic vistas, beautiful trails, ultra-local wine tasting, and outdoor adventures. From fine food to the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

 

Photo Credit: Matt McDonald

Celebrate Winter along the Seattle Waterfront

There are few places that are more memorable than the Seattle waterfront during the holidays. The Emerald’s premiere location at Second and Stewart places you in the center of downtown Seattle – just one block from the iconic Pike Place Market overlooking the Elliott Bay. A magical spot to be year-round, the Market lights up this season and is activated with festive events. Shop small, buy local and discover all the reasons to celebrate this season as the Seattle waterfront turns into a Winter Wonderland.

 

 

Can Can presents Wonderland, showing December 2- January 9. This carnival of merriment will mesmerize audiences as soon as they enter Can Can’s intimate theatre turned whimsical winter chalet, making this a holiday entertainment spectacular to remember. In the kitchen and behind the bar you’ll find a variety of food, wine, and spirit menus carefully crafted with local market-fresh winter ingredients, prepared to tantalize even the most refined palates.

 

On December 1st and 9th, Truffle Queen is hosting a Holiday Open House where they will have special pricing on Italian holiday cakes and more, plus preview tastings for wines arriving in the new year.

 

Snap a picture with Santa and Crafty on December 4th and 11th. Santa will be visiting the Market two times in December with special guest, Crafty for free holiday photos. Get all your holiday shopping done + receive a free gift when you spend $50 or more at Market businesses. The gift includes 1 eco-friendly Market wrapping paper kit. Bring your receipts to the “Special Offer Tent” to receive your free gift.

 

Order your Holiday Pike Box. This NEW Pike Box is an exciting mix of spices, honey, and nuts from the Market farmers. Registration ends December 8th.

 

Cross off everyone on your holiday list when you shop at the Holiday Night Market on December 16th as the MarketFront Pavilion is transformed into a winter wonderland of stocking stuffers, ornaments, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Shoppers can raise a glass at the Polar Bar with seasonal cocktails and live music with drink proceeds supporting the Pike Place Market Foundation.

 

Lend a helping hand and care for the needs of our neighbors at Pike Place Market this holiday season by contributing to the Giving Tree by December 20th. Send a gift using their Amazon Wish List, purchase a gift card or make a donation directly to the Market Foundation, and leave the shopping to them. Their goal is to collect and distribute over 1,000 warm winter items and holiday gifts.

 

Add in some laughs this holiday season with A(n Improvised) Christmas Carol, a holiday tradition for countless locals since 1985. Experience a new version of this old favorite each night through December 23rd, so head to the Market Theatre in Pike Place Market and have a blast creating your own Christmas classic.

 

Imagine the lights you’ll see if you dine in a gondola 200 feet above the Salish Sea. Assemble 4 people, friends or family and make reservations for the dinner experience of a lifetime at Seattle’s Great Wheel. Enjoy a spectacular 4-course dinner including prawn cocktail and grilled salmon paired with views of the Puget Sound.

 

Depart from nearby Pier 55 during December and travel on the Christmas Ship Festival, decorated with hundreds of shimmery white lights and sailing to different Puget Sound waterfront communities. Choirs on board the Christmas Ship perform to guests aboard, to follow boats, and to communities gathered on shore.

 

Deck your Halls

 

Visit these 12 Market Shops to Make Your Home Holiday Ready, from dried flower wreaths to leaf-imprinted spoon rests to Market themed posters and more!

 

‘Tis the Season to Indulge

 

Whether you’re looking for the best quick stops to hit while knocking out your holiday shopping, seeking a memorable sit-down experience with a great ambiance, or satisfying your sweet tooth, Pike Place Market has you covered! Explore the Pike Place Holiday Food Tour, including some of these gems:

 

Shug’s Soda Fountain & Ice Cream. This classically styled ice cream parlor is serving up hot cocoa with freshly whipped vanilla cream (add Irish cream for those 21+) and a seasonal “Elf Float” combining candy cane ice cream and peppermint soda.

 

Chocolate & Ice Cream Delight. Their hot chocolate bombs are back! Drop in for a selection of delightful fudge and seasonal truffle flavors. Be sure to indulge in their snickerdoodle or peppermint truffles for an extra festive kick.

 

Looking for a few unique holiday host gift inspirations? Pike Place rounded up a few:

 

Chocolate Gift Set. indi chocolate has a variety of gift sets available or you can customize your own. This shop doesn’t just sell chocolate, explore the “unexpected side of chocolate” with cacao butter body care, cacao spice rubs, cocoa nib liquor infusion kits, s’mores kits, and more!

 

Reusable Glass Straws. DrinkingStraws.Glass has seasonal designs available including an elf hat, Santa hat, evergreen tree, or a Christmas tree. Or choose from their classic straw sets for a gift that’s used through every season!

 

Handmade Cards. The Paper Feather has a perfect gift for the person who loves sending special notes with handmade cards! This package includes 13 cards designed and handmade by The Paper Feather, postage stamps, and packaged in a pink bakery box with ribbon.

 

Gift Baskets and Wine. Chukar Cherries has new Columbia Valley wine gift boxes and a charcuterie kit that features the very best delicacies of the Pacific Northwest. All of their assortments and tins of Northwest cherries, berries, and nuts now come in festive holiday sleeves.

 

If you’re still looking for gift ideas, visit 12 Pike Place Market Gifts for Kids and Teens, 5 Thoughtful Market Gifts for the Person Who Needs to Relax and 11 Pike Place Market Gifts for the Stylish Friend.

 

Be sure to book your tour of The Emerald this season before you catch the festivities. Now over 50% sold and priced from the $400,000’s, we cannot wait to show you our 8 new model residences, beautiful building amenities and a unique bird’s eye perspective looking down on Pike Place market all aglow.  Schedule your private in-person or virtual tour by contacting our team at 206-453-6800 or info@theemeraldseattle.com.

 

 

Pike Place Public Market Photo by Matt McDonald @equalmotion

Make it A Market Day with Insider Tips

The Emerald’s premiere location at Second and Stewart places you in the center of downtown Seattle – just one block from the iconic Pike Place Market. Pike Place offers nine-acres of world-class shopping, fine dining, fresh ingredients and more. The Market is made up of 500+ small businesses. Whether you visit The Market daily or have never been, you are sure to discover something new.

 

 

Pike Place Market Foundation nurtures a thriving Market and community. Established in 1982 to uplift the charter of Pike Place Market, the foundation partners with, as well as operates and sustains, a network of programs and services to support residents, workers, families and neighbors of the most famous market on the West Coast. As the person who knows the famous market better than most, the foundation’s Executive Director Lillian Sherman gives us the inside scoop on her favorite summer happenings at the Market including Sunset Supper at Pike Place Market, Unexpected Productions, and Eighth Generation. Peruse more tips for making the best of a trip to nearby Pike Place Market.

 

Unexpected Productions. Seattle’s longest running improv theater, the Theatre Sports Improv show is great for a laugh at The Market Theatre and right next to the famous Gum Wall. Every Friday and Saturday catch Theatresports. Based on audience suggestions, two teams of incredible improvisers rumble, creating exciting fast-paced improv games, hilarious stories, scenes, and songs right on the spot and in the moment. Boo the judges as they award points to each team. At the end of the night, one team is declared a winner, the audience member with the suggestion walks out with a prize.

 

8th Generation. These inspired natives — not “native inspired” — recently reopened their store at Pike Place Market. Eighth Generation provides a strong, ethical alternative to “Native-inspired” art and products through its artist-centric approach and 100% Native designed products. Look for the neon hummingbird!

 

The Can Can Culinary Cabaret. Can Can returns with a 2-month festival of glitter, gowns, and glamour in an all-new home – just down Post Alley from Can Can’s infamous, former, secret underground lair. Glitter Gala runs from August 5 – September 26. Tickets will be in high demand!

 

Sunset Supper at Pike Place Market. On August 20, the Party of the Summer is back and reimagined! Marking its 25th year, the outdoor dining event allows attendees to support and taste bites and sips from a wide variety of Seattle restaurants, breweries, and distilleries. The evening celebrates the 114th Anniversary of Pike Place Market and raises funds for Pike Place Market Foundation’s Recovery Fund.

 

Pasta Casalinga. One of the best places for Italian in Seattle, this favorite spot includes handmade pasta dishes that transport you to Italy with fresh Market ingredients mixed in. Lillian loves their “Everyday” dish, Lasagna alla Boscaiola. Open Thu – Sun from 11am to 4:45pm.

 

Sosio’s Produce. Grab fresh produce from Sosio’s Produce. This is the oldest produce stand at The Market and Mike is a wealth of knowledge about what’s in-season and best to accompany any meal. Monday-Saturday 5:00am-5:00pm, Sundays 5:00am-5:00pm.

 

In addition to the above top picks, keep your eyes open for exciting things at The Market including the Market to Table Tour complete with cooking classes and dining in front of Pike Place Market’s iconic Public Market Center Clock and Sign. For the very first time, visitors can grab food or drinks from any of the 30+ eateries and restaurants to enjoy in two new public seating areas on Pike Street and Pike Place. The new seating areas include wooden picnic tables, umbrellas and are sectioned off with white fencing. Both seating areas are open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. They will remain open through Labor Day weekend.

 

When you shop The Market, you are supporting generations of families and local business owners, so shop, eat and support local just outside your doors at The Emerald.