{"id":32267,"date":"2023-05-23T11:12:44","date_gmt":"2023-05-23T09:12:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dev.mindfultravelbysara.com\/?p=32267"},"modified":"2024-01-03T12:52:05","modified_gmt":"2024-01-03T10:52:05","slug":"free-things-to-do-in-seattle","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dev.mindfultravelbysara.com\/en\/free-things-to-do-in-seattle\/","title":{"rendered":"15 Best Free Things to Do in Seattle Right Now! (2024)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Looking for free things to do in Seattle? I’ve got you covered!<\/strong><\/h4>

In this post, I will tell you the best ways to explore the Emerald City without breaking the bank with free and budget-friendly activities.<\/p>

Seattle WA is definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in the United States<\/strong><\/a>, and also one of the most expensive. But if you do your research you will find that there are loads of free things to do in Seattle.<\/p>

I have lived in Seattle for over 6 years<\/strong> making me the expert in finding things to do that won’t break the bank!<\/p>

\"Seattle<\/figure>

If you want to explore all the free activities in Seattle<\/strong>, Melissa, a solo travel enthusiast who lives in Seattle, and runs the travel site A Solo Woman Traveling<\/strong><\/a>, will show you some of her favorite things to do in Seattle for free<\/strong>!<\/p>

The key to most of these free things to do in Seattle will require some decent weather. It doesn’t have to be dry, but it should be mild. <\/p>

Get ready to explore this beautiful city without spending a dime!<\/p>

Free Things To Do in Seattle<\/strong><\/h2>

1. Visit Pike Place Market<\/strong><\/h3>

Yes, I am starting off with the most obvious free activities in Seattle. Pike Place Market really is worth visiting <\/strong>even though touristy and sometimes overcrowded.<\/p>

\"Pike<\/figure>

The key to visiting Pike Place Market is to go in the morning<\/strong>. It is a great way to beat the crowds. <\/p>

I promise you the market isn’t just for tourists. Even though I live here I often visit the market<\/strong> to pick up locally-made goods and flowers and fresh fish.<\/p>

One of the fun cheap things to do here<\/strong> is get a coffee at the original Starbucks<\/strong><\/a> and make your way from the market to Pioneer Square!<\/p>

Looking for what to do in Seattle for free in the market? Why not try and catch a fish? Just ask at the counter, it’s great fun!<\/em><\/p>

2. Pioneer Square<\/strong><\/h3>

One of my favorite free things to do in downtown Seattle<\/strong> is to check out the architecture in Pioneer Square.<\/p>

History lovers will enjoy all the things to see in Seattle for free. Some of the most historic buildings are located in Pioneer Square such as Smith Tower<\/strong><\/a>. A unique skyscraper built in 1914, and the Pioneer Building<\/strong>, an iconic landmark that’s been around since 1892.<\/p>

\"Pioneer<\/figure>

From Victorian-style structures to Art Deco masterpieces<\/strong>, there’s something for everyone to admire here.<\/p>

If you were looking for inexpensive things to do in Seattle, take this Underground Tour<\/strong><\/a>! It is the famous walking tour that takes you below to the original city before the Seattle Fire.<\/p>

3. Get Lost in the Arboretum<\/strong><\/h3>

A free thing to do in Seattle that not everyone has the chance to experience in Seattle is the Arboretum.<\/p>

Visiting the Washington Park Arboretum<\/strong> won’t cost a dime! <\/p>

Located on the shores of Lake Washington, this 230-acre park is full of natural wonders. This is one of the best free <\/strong>things to do with kids in Seattle<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>

\"Washington<\/figure>

Take a stroll through its trails and gardens, or marvel at the rare and exotic plants. If it’s a nice day, just relax by one of the many tranquil ponds.<\/p>

The best time to visit the Arboretum is in the spring<\/strong> when everything is blooming, but there is a good chance it could be drizzly. As long as it’s not cold it’s one of the best free things to do in Seattle.<\/p>

4. Climb the Tower at Volunteer Park<\/strong><\/h3>

If you are looking for a little exercise and some great views in Seattle<\/strong> you can climb the Water Tower! <\/p>

Now, these views are not <\/em>going to be as good as the top of the Space Needle, but these views are FREE<\/strong>!<\/p>

The observation deck is open daily<\/strong> from dawn to dusk. This is a great place to come for the sunset<\/strong>. You will have west-facing views and a direct shot of the space needle!<\/p>

\"Conservatory<\/figure>

Also located in Volunteer Park are the Conservatory and Seattle Asian Art Museum<\/strong>. Neither are free attractions in Seattle, but the admission prices are low.<\/p>

If you are visiting Seattle in the summer<\/a><\/strong>, be sure to have a look at the outdoor concert schedule. This is one of the best free places to visit in Seattle for music lovers<\/strong>.<\/p>

5. Sculpture Park, one of the  best things to do in Seattle for free<\/strong><\/h3>

A fun and unique way to spend an afternoon in Seattle, especially if it’s dry, is to visit the Olympic Sculpture Park<\/strong><\/a>. <\/p>

It’s a 9-acre outdoor art museum<\/strong> and is one of the city’s most eye-catching and inspiring places.<\/p>

\"Olympic<\/figure>

Explore the world’s most extensive collection of Alexander Calder mobiles<\/strong> or stroll along the waterfront to take in the stunning views of Seattle<\/strong>. <\/p>

You don’t have to be an art lover to enjoy one of the best things to do in Seattle for free!<\/p>

6. Fremont Troll<\/strong><\/h3>

Visiting the Fremont Troll is one of the top free things to do in Seattle!<\/p>

Located under the Aurora Bridge in Fremont, this enormous sculpture was built in 1990<\/strong> by four local artists. <\/p>

The troll towers an impressive 18 feet tall<\/strong>, and can often be seen with a real Volkswagen Beetle clutched firmly in its hand.<\/p>

\"Fremont<\/figure>

If you are into unique art and culture visiting the Fremont Troll is one of the fun free things to do in Seattle<\/strong>. <\/p>

A memorable experience for all who visit, I’ve been known to snap a selfie with the troll – it’s an Instagram-worthy thing to do!<\/p>

7. Gas Works Park<\/strong><\/h3>

If you are looking for free things to do with kids in Seattle<\/strong> then be sure to head on over to Gas Works Park!<\/p>

This free park<\/strong> has so much to offer to anyone in Seattle! Not only does it have some of the best views of Lake Union and downtown Seattle<\/strong>, but there is also a playground for kids!<\/p>

\"Gas<\/figure>

Located just a 17-minute walk from the Fremont Troll, it is a must see when looking for fun free things to do in Seattle<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>

I have watched the fireworks at Gas Works almost every year<\/strong> that I have lived in Seattle so if the weather is excellent plan to make a day of it!<\/p>

8. Kerry Park, one of the best free activities in Seattle<\/strong><\/h3>

Kerry Park in Seattle is famous for being the backdrop of one of television’s most beloved series – Grey’s<\/em><\/strong> Anatomy And it’s a must in your one day in Seattle itinerary!<\/a> <\/em><\/strong>. <\/p>

Fans of the show will recognize Kerry Park from some of the iconic outdoor scenes featuring Meredith and Derek<\/strong>, making it a must-see destination for fans visiting Seattle.<\/p>

\"Kerry<\/figure>

Located on Queen Anne Hill<\/strong>, this park offers some truly spectacular views of the city skyline<\/strong> and the surrounding mountains. Best of all, it’s completely free!<\/p>

Parking can be a little challenging in the Queen Anne Neighborhood. I recommend taking public transport if possible.<\/p>

9. Seattle Farmers Market<\/strong><\/h3>

For things to do in Seattle that won’t break the bank, visit a Seattle Farmers Market. A fun, free activity for all ages that draws locals and tourists alike for its wide array of fresh produce<\/strong>, handmade crafts, and delicious food<\/strong>.<\/p>

\"Ballard<\/figure>

Not only does Seattle Farmers Market offer a great place to support local farmers<\/strong> you can also find unique handmade jewelry and other home goods.<\/p>

Here’s a list of Seattle’s Neighborhood farmer’s markets<\/strong><\/a> and their unique features:<\/p>