Original Starbucks

The Original Starbucks, located on Pike Place in Seattle, is one of the first ever branches of the world-famous Starbucks coffee chain established in the 1970s.

Starbucks Coffee has become a global phenomenon, but it started with one small store in Seattle. The original Starbucks opened its doors in 1971, founded by three Seattle-based academics who sought to bring high-quality coffee beans to the city. Starbucks started life as a coffee bean retailer and roastery, inspired by Italian coffee culture. The shop at 1912 Pike Place became its permanent location in 1976. Though it wasn’t the absolute first storefront (the original location was nearby on Western Avenue), it is the oldest surviving Starbucks store and is officially recognised as the “first.”

Today the Pike Place store has become something of a pilgrimage site for coffee enthusiasts, preserving its original look and feel with dark wood interiors and vintage signage. It offers classic espresso drinks and beans, but in a more intimate, nostalgic atmosphere than a typical Starbucks. Unsurprisingly, it draws long lines of visitors every day, many stopping to snap a photo, grab a drink, or pick up the exclusive Pike Place merchandise.

Nearby Attractions

See all attractions in Seattle
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Chihuly's blown glass has put Seattle on the map of the global glass blowing scene. The gardens are one of the city's largest draws for travelers and locals.
Pike Place Market
Operating for over a century, Pike Place is one of the country's oldest farmers' markets, frequented by locals and travellers looking for a fresh, tasty treat.
Seattle Space Needle
An iconic Seattle landmark & defining feature of the city's skyline, the Space Needle offers spectacular views over the city, the Olympic Mountains, & beyond.
Olive Oil Tasting
Pop into any number of shops to sample local olive oils and balsamic vinegar before purchasing your favorite combination.
Seattle Great Wheel
The Seattle Great Wheel is a giant Ferris wheel located on Pier 57 along Seattle’s scenic waterfront, offering incredible views over the bay and the city.
Alaskan Way
Alaskan Way is a major waterfront street in downtown Seattle that runs along Elliott Bay, offering a scenic route along the shoreline with various piers.

Related Tours

Discover Seattle by Car: Private Half-Day Highlights Tour

The largest city in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is a vibrant metropolis known for its picturesque setting between the Puget Sound and Lake Washington as well as its spirit of innovation. Our half-day driving tour is a great way to get to know the so-called ‘Emerald City’, taking you on a carefully curated route around Seattle’s must-see spots in the company of a knowledgeable local driver guide.

On this private half-day driving tour, you will:

  • Get a comprehensive introduction to Seattle as you explore the city in a comfortable private vehicle;
  • Enjoy the undivided attention of your local driver-guide, well-versed in Seattle’s history and culture;
  • Navigate the city with ease with convenient pick up and drop off from your hotel in central Seattle;
  • Embark on a fun and flexible route around the city’s most iconic landmarks;
  • Admire the Space Needle, the city’s most famous structure;
  • Stop by the historic Pike Place Market, the oldest continually operating farmers' market in the U.S;
  • See some quirky and unique corners of the city, like the Gum Wall;
  • Hear about Seattle’s legendary coffee culture as you pass by the world’s first Starbucks store;
  • Cruise along the Alaskan Way, a scenic waterfront street that runs along Elliott Bay;
  • Take in incredible views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.

Experience the best of Seattle on this private half-day driving tour, designed for curious travellers eager to dive deep into the city’s spirit. With convenient door-to-door pickup and drop-off from your hotel in central Seattle, you’ll be welcomed by a friendly local driver-guide who knows the city like the back of their hand, sharing stories, insights, and hidden gems you won’t find in guidebooks.

Your journey begins with a scenic drive through the heart of the city, weaving through Seattle’s distinct neighbourhoods and lively streets. Along the way, you’ll pass some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including the towering Space Needle, a hallmark of the Seattle skyline standing at over 600 feet tall, and the bustling Pike Place Market, where you’ll have time to hop out and explore the colourful stalls, meet local vendors, and maybe even witness the famous flying fish.

As you cruise down Alaskan Way, you’ll take in sweeping views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains, with plenty of photo-worthy stops to capture Seattle's breathtaking natural beauty. Your guide will tailor the route to match your interests, whether you’re intrigued by the city’s maritime roots, its booming tech scene, or the legacy of its music and counterculture movements.

You’ll have time to walk through some of Seattle’s quirkiest spots, like the ever-evolving Gum Wall tucked on Post Alley, and you can also pass by landmarks that helped shape Seattle’s world-famous coffee culture, including the original Starbucks store. With your guide at the wheel, you’ll be able to explore comfortably and efficiently, with ample opportunity to step out for a stroll if you so choose.

By the time your tour draws to a close, you’ll be left with a deeper understanding of what makes Seattle tick: its layered history, dynamic culture, and the unique energy that pulses through its streets and waterfront. This is a perfect introduction to the Emerald City, all in a relaxed and flexible setting.

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