The Top Farmers Markets in Seattle: A Guide to Fresh Local Produce
Seattle is packed with some of the best farmers markets in the country, and I personally love exploring them. Whether you’re picking up farm-fresh produce, indulging in artisan cheeses, or discovering handcrafted goods, there’s something special about connecting with local growers and makers. Here’s my personal guide to Seattle’s top farmers markets, complete with locations, schedules, and vendors you won’t want to miss.
1. Pike Place Market
📍 Location: 85 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101
🕒 Hours: Open daily, 9 AM - 6 PM (farm stalls vary)
Pike Place Market isn’t just a tourist attraction—it’s an essential stop for fresh, local produce. While the fish-throwing vendors get most of the attention, I always make a point to visit the small farmers, cheese makers, and bakers that make this market truly special.
My Recommendations:
• Sosio’s Produce – Their “OMG Peaches” live up to the name.
• Beecher’s Handmade Cheese – The Flagship cheese is a must-try.
• Pike Place Fish Market – If you’re looking for wild-caught salmon, this is the place.
2. University District Farmers Market
📍 Location: NE 50th St & University Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105
🕒 Hours: Saturdays, 9 AM - 2 PM (year-round)
This is Seattle’s oldest and largest farmers market, and if you’re serious about farm-fresh food, it’s worth a visit. The variety here is incredible, from organic produce to grass-fed meats.
My Picks:
• Foraged & Found Edibles – Wild mushrooms and seasonal finds.
• Sea Breeze Farm – Grass-fed meats and dairy from Vashon Island.
• Tall Grass Bakery – Their organic sourdough is one of my favorites.
3. Ballard Farmers Market
📍 Location: Ballard Ave NW between 20th Ave NW & 22nd Ave NW
🕒 Hours: Sundays, 9 AM - 2 PM (year-round)
Ballard’s market has a fun, relaxed vibe with a fantastic lineup of local farmers, fishers, and artisans. It’s one of my favorite Sunday morning stops.
Must-Visit Vendors:
• Wilson Fish – Some of the best wild-caught salmon and smoked seafood.
• Bluebird Grain Farms – Fresh-milled heirloom grains.
• Tonnemaker Valley Farm – Their organic fruit selection is unbeatable.
4. Capitol Hill Farmers Market
📍 Location: Broadway & Pine St, Seattle, WA 98122
🕒 Hours: Sundays, 11 AM - 3 PM (year-round)
Right in the heart of Capitol Hill, this market is great for grabbing fresh ingredients while enjoying the neighborhood’s energetic atmosphere.
Don’t Miss:
• Collins Family Orchards – Incredible stone fruits, apples, and pears.
• Seattle Pops – Handmade, all-natural popsicles (great on a warm day).
• Ruth’s Baked Goods – Delicious pastries, including gluten-free options.
5. West Seattle Farmers Market
📍 Location: California Ave SW between SW Alaska St & SW Oregon St
🕒 Hours: Sundays, 10 AM - 2 PM (year-round)
West Seattle’s market has a strong community feel, and the selection is fantastic. It’s a great way to support small farms while picking up some of the freshest produce around.
My Favorite Stops:
• Mikuni Wild Harvest – Unique finds like truffles and fiddlehead ferns.
• Nash’s Organic Produce – A standout for sustainably grown veggies.
• Hama Hama Oysters – Fresh oysters and shellfish straight from Hood Canal.
6. Columbia City Farmers Market
📍 Location: 37th Ave S & S Edmunds St, Seattle, WA 98118
🕒 Hours: Wednesdays, 3 PM - 7 PM (May - October)
Columbia City’s market has a great neighborhood feel and a diverse selection of vendors. If you want a mid-week refresh of fresh produce, this is the place to go.
Try These Vendors:
• Rockridge Orchards – Amazing apple juice and hard cider.
• Hayton Farms – Some of the best organic strawberries and raspberries.
• Patty Pan Cooperative – Their handmade tamales are a must-try.
7. Lake City Farmers Market
📍 Location: NE 125th St & 28th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98125
🕒 Hours: Thursdays, 3 PM - 7 PM (June - October)
Lake City’s market may be smaller, but it’s packed with great vendors and a friendly community vibe. Plus, live music adds to the fun atmosphere.
Recommended Stops:
• Skagit River Ranch – High-quality, grass-fed meats.
• One Leaf Farm – Beautiful seasonal organic vegetables.
• Sunny Honey Company – Raw, unfiltered honey from local bees.
Why Visit a Farmers Market?
Shopping at farmers markets isn’t just about fresh food—it’s about supporting local businesses, reducing your carbon footprint, and meeting the people who grow your food. Plus, you’ll find unique seasonal produce that grocery stores just don’t carry.
If living near one of Seattle’s fantastic farmers markets sounds like a dream, I can help you find the perfect home in neighborhoods like Ballard, Capitol Hill, or West Seattle. Let’s chat about your home search—reach out to me today!
Joe Sheldon, Real Estate Broker
Designed Realty
Phone: (206) 751-2223
Email: [email protected]