free things to do in seattle
Seattle is a vibrant city with plenty of free activities to enjoy. Here are some ideas:
- Visit the Space Needle’s outdoor viewing area: While the elevator to the top of the Space Needle costs money, the outdoor viewing area on the ground floor offers stunning views of the city for free.
- Explore the Seattle Waterfront: The newly renovated Seattle Waterfront is a beautiful place to walk, shop, and enjoy the views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
- Walk the Seattle Great Wheel: Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the views of the city while riding the Seattle Great Wheel, a 175-foot tall Ferris wheel.
- Visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit: While some exhibits may require a fee, the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit offers free admission to its outdoor garden and glasshouse.
- Discover the Seattle Art Museum’s free admission days: The Seattle Art Museum offers free admission on the first Thursday of every month, as well as on the second Sunday of every month.
- Visit the Seattle Public Library: The Seattle Public Library is a beautiful building with a stunning atrium and plenty of free resources, including books, media, and events.
- Take a ferry ride: Seattle has several ferry routes that offer stunning views of the city and surrounding islands. You can take a free ferry ride to Bainbridge Island or Vashon Island.
- Explore the Pike Place Market: While shopping and eating at the market can be expensive, the market itself is free to visit and offers a lively atmosphere and plenty of street performers.
- Visit the Seattle Center’s free outdoor concerts and events: During the summer months, the Seattle Center hosts free outdoor concerts and events, including the Seattle Summer Concert Series.
- Walk through the Washington Park Arboretum: This beautiful 230-acre park features stunning gardens, walking trails, and plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Visit the Museum of Pop Culture’s free exhibits: The Museum of Pop Culture offers free admission to its exhibits on music, science fiction, and pop culture.
- Take a hike: Seattle has plenty of nearby hiking trails, including the Rattlesnake Ridge Trail and the Discovery Park Trail.
- Visit the Seattle Asian Art Museum: The Seattle Asian Art Museum offers free admission to its exhibits on Asian art and culture.
- Explore the Fremont Sunday Market: Every Sunday, the Fremont neighborhood hosts a free market featuring local vendors, food, and live music.
- Watch the sunset at the Kerry Park: This park offers stunning views of the city skyline and is a great spot to watch the sunset.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Seattle has plenty of other free activities to enjoy, so be sure to explore and discover new things!