free things to do in seattle washington

Seattle, Washington, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, surrounded by nature and waterways. Here are some free things to do in Seattle:

1. Visit the Pike Place Market: While shopping and dining can be pricey, browsing the stalls, watching fishmongers in action, and taking in the lively atmosphere is free.
2. Walk along the Waterfront: Enjoy stunning views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the city skyline while strolling along the newly revitalized waterfront.
3. Seattle Public Library: This modern library is a must-visit for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts. Take a guided tour or explore on your own.
4. Visit the Museum of Pop Culture’s (MoPOP) Outdoor Exhibits: While not all exhibits are free, MoPOP offers some outdoor exhibits and public art installations at no cost.
5. Explore the Seattle Great Wheel: Take a stroll around the waterfront and admire the city’s iconic Ferris wheel. You can even take a free photo in front of the wheel.
6. Discovery Park: This 740-acre park in the Magnolia neighborhood offers miles of trails, stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, and a chance to spot wildlife like eagles and seals.
7. Kerry Park: This small park on the south slope of Queen Anne Hill is famous for its panoramic views of the city skyline and Space Needle.
8. Seattle Art Museum’s Olympic Sculpture Park: This outdoor park features large-scale sculptures and stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound.
9. Visit the Seattle Center: While some attractions require a fee, the campus itself is free to explore, including the public art installations, gardens, and food court.
10. Attend a Free Outdoor Concert or Movie: During the summer, Seattle hosts various outdoor concerts and movie screenings, usually in public parks like Gas Works Park or Volunteer Park.
11. Visit the Frye Art Museum: This museum on First Hill features 19th- and 20th-century European art, and admission is always free.
12. Take a Hike: Seattle has numerous hiking trails within the city limits, such as the Washington Park Arboretum, Carkeek Park, or the Rattlesnake Ridge Trail.
13. Visit the Center for Wooden Boats: This maritime museum on Lake Union offers free admission and a chance to explore historic boats and learn about Seattle’s maritime history.
14. Go to a Farmer’s Market: Seattle has several farmer’s markets, such as the University District Farmer’s Market or the Capitol Hill Farmer’s Market, where you can sample local foods and browse vendors.
15. Take a Self-Guided Tour of the City’s Public Art: Seattle has a rich collection of public art installations throughout the city. You can download a map or app to guide you on a self-guided tour.

These free activities offer a great way to experience Seattle’s culture, outdoor beauty, and entertainment without breaking the bank!