A large black and white sign reads "Farmers Market"

Ride the food wave: A transit rider’s guide to farmers markets

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Ready to enjoy warm weather, community connections and the freshest Rainier cherries this summer?

The Puget Sound is home to so many seasonal farmers markets – with almost every neighborhood joining in the fun. 

Some are open all year round (including the iconic Pike Place Market). 

But let’s be honest, the market experience hits a little different when the sun is shining, food trucks are out in full force and bouquets are bursting with peonies, dahlias and other perennial favorites.

Each market features a rich selection of vendors and locally grown products. Many accept SNAP/EBT benefits.

And best of all, you can get to many via Sound Transit trains or buses! 

Here’s a robust but surely incomplete round-up of the most transit-accessible markets:

Bellevue

What: Each Bellevue Farmers Market day is composed of its own unique mix of vendors offering seasonal fruits and vegetables, cut flowers, fresh meats, one-of-a-kind artisan goods, and tasty cuisine. Whether you are looking for fresh ingredients, a grab-and-go meal, or a gift for someone special – they’ve got you covered.

When: Thursdays, May 23 through early October, 3-7 p.m.

Where: 1717 Bellevue Way

How: 2 Line (Bellevue Downtown Station)

Broadway (Tacoma) 

What: The Broadway Farmers Market is a vibrant downtown marketplace bringing together the highest quality local Washington growers, specialty food producers, hot food vendors, artisans and weekly music. Come for lunch – shop for dinner!

When: Thursdays, May 2 to Oct. 31 (no market on July 4), 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: 925 Broadway, between 9th & 11th

How: T Line (Theater District Station)

A flower vendor puts together bouquets at the Tacoma Farmers Market

Capitol Hill

What: The Capitol Hill Farmers Market is a vital part of the heart of the neighborhood. It’s the perfect way to stock up for the week, taste the flavors of the season, get to know your local growers and food artisans, and see friends and neighbors.

When: Sundays, year-round, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Tuesdays, June 4 to Sept. 24, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Where: E Denny Way between Broadway and 10th Ave E (aka E Barbara Bailey Way)

How: 1 Line (Capitol Hill Station)

Columbia City

What: The Columbia City Farmers Market is in the center of one of the most diverse zip-codes in the country, with offerings as varied as its regulars. This bustling scene is also a hub for food access, as it is near many clinics offering these important programs.

When: Wednesdays, May 1 to Oct. 9, 3-7 p.m.; plus second Saturdays November through April, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: 37th Ave S and S Edmunds St, just off Rainier Ave S.

How: 1 Line (Columbia City Station)

Red and yellow cherries

Everett

What: Now in its 31st season, this market showcases not only local handmade crafts, but also farm fresh fruits and vegetables, organic produce, flowers, plants, herbs, honey, and baked goods. 

When: Sundays, May 12 to Oct. 29, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Where: Downtown Everett - Hewitt and Wetmore 

How: ST Express Route 512

University District

What: Regularly recognized as one of the best farmers markets in the U.S., the University District Farmers Market is Seattle’s largest and oldest farm-and-food-only market. Long-time vendors and the market’s dedicated shoppers (its core group of “lifers”) help give the UDFM its hometown feel and community atmosphere.

When: Saturdays, year-round, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: University Way NE (the "Ave") between 50th and 52nd St.

How: 1 Line (U District Station)

Bunches of radishes

There are so many more markets in our region that are accessible by transit – from King County Metro, Pierce Transit and Community Transit bus routes to the South Lake Union Streetcar. 

What’s your favorite? Tag us @SoundTransit so we can tag along on your next market adventure!