Venture beyond Seattle's conventional tourist spots like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, and you'll discover a truly singular retail destination: the Georgetown Trailer Park Mall. This eclectic hub, inaugurated in 2010, reimagines the shopping experience by housing its diverse array of offerings within eight distinct trailers. It’s a haven for those who appreciate unique finds, local craftsmanship, and a touch of eccentricity. Far from your typical brick-and-mortar stores, this innovative concept brings together a curated collection of vintage fashion, original artwork, handcrafted jewelry, delectable treats, and even a charming wedding chapel, offering an unparalleled glimpse into Seattle's creative spirit. It's an essential stop for anyone looking to embrace the city's vibrant subculture and acquire memorable, locally-made keepsakes.
Situated conveniently in the Georgetown neighborhood, merely a 15-minute drive from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and about a 30-minute public transit ride from Pike Place Market, the Georgetown Trailer Park Mall offers accessibility without sacrificing its distinct, off-the-beaten-path appeal. Its operational hours are specific, opening only on weekends from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., from February through December, with expanded hours during the warmer months. This limited availability adds to its allure, making each visit feel like a special occasion to uncover one-of-a-kind treasures and soak in an atmosphere unlike any other.
The shops within the mall are primarily managed by local artisans and independent curators, guaranteeing a selection of items that stand apart from mass-produced goods. At Third Wave Mercantile, located in an Argosy trailer, visitors can explore carefully chosen vintage clothing alongside handmade and pre-owned articles. For those seeking sensory delights, Natures Element, housed in the mall's oldest trailer from the 1950s, offers sustainably packaged coconut soy wax candles. Artistic expressions abound, with Boxes of Glass showcasing intricate glass sculptures and jewelry by Kare Cole, who also operates Venus Fly Tricks, a space offering prints, apparel, art, tattoos, and even tarot card readings.
Art enthusiasts will find themselves drawn to the Royal Mansion Gallery, a dynamic space that regularly rotates exhibitions featuring emerging Seattle artists across various mediums, including painting, photography, pottery, illustrations, and sculptures. Another highlight is Gadfly and Flynn, which presents unique art fashioned from wood, cement, and paper, alongside an assortment of jewelry, cigar boxes, and other intriguing curios. Amidst exploring these distinctive collections, a visit to the Lowrider Cookie Company, situated in a 1970s Silver Streak trailer, is a must for a sweet indulgence, boasting delightful flavors such as brown butter triple chocolate chip and salted toffee pecan.
Beyond its retail offerings, the Georgetown Trailer Park Mall distinguishes itself with unique experiences, most notably its Shotgun Wedding Chapel. This distinct venue provides an intimate setting for couples to legally exchange vows within a charmingly decorated trailer, complete with pink walls and a cozy ceremony area. Shotgun Ceremonies offers an all-inclusive wedding package, making it a truly unconventional yet memorable place to tie the knot. The mall also hosts a variety of seasonal events throughout the year, from festive holiday markets to lively summer flea markets and Halloween celebrations. Furthermore, it actively participates in Georgetown’s monthly ART ATTACK, an event where local businesses highlight the creative talents of community members. These diverse activities and its inherently artistic environment firmly establish the Georgetown Trailer Park Mall as a vital and captivating area within Seattle, offering far more than just a typical shopping excursion.