Top Free Things to Do in Seattle

Seattle can be an expensive city to visit; however, if you know where to look and how to entertain yourself, you can save a lot of money. Between exploring lively markets and heading out on outdoor excursions, the Emerald City has a variety of activities that will leave your wallet in your pocket and your traveler’s heart full.

1. Explore Pike Place Market

Touristy, but justifiably so, Pike Place Market is one of Seattle’s top sights and absolutely free – except for the money you’ll be tempted to spend here. The range of stalls, from fishmongers and florists to food stands, demonstrates the Port of Seattle’s importance and why it became such a valuable jewel in the Pacific Northwest’s crown. This is a great place to shop and people-watch any day of the year.

2. Enjoy Fremont’s Public Sculptures

You don’t need to pay museum entrance fees to see some of the city’s best and most iconic art. Fremont is an art gallery in and of itself, with public sculptures sharing sidewalk space with pedestrians and cyclists throughout the neighborhood. Each of the 10 or so pieces here is totally unique, and you’ll often find them dressed up for holidays or other special events.

3. Head Out on a Pay-What-You-Feel Walking Tour

Since 2012, Seattle Free Walking Tours has brought European-style informative strolls to the Emerald City. Organized as a nonprofit, these intimate two-hour walks give you a chance to learn more about corners of the city like Pioneer Square, the waterfront, and downtown. Visitors also hear the stories of many notable people who have called Seattle home. While the tours may be free, tips for the guides are appreciated.

4. Stroll Through Olympic Sculpture Park

The Olympic Sculpture Park is home to over a dozen large artworks, with access free and open to the public every day from dawn until dusk. From the sweeping red Eagle to the unusual Echo, this is a great place to partake of Seattle’s art-loving culture.

5. Wander Through Ballard Locks

The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, commonly known as the Ballard Locks, are a valuable link for boats moving between Puget Sound and lakes Union and Washington. Each year, approximately 40,000 to 50,000 boats move through the locks. The site is also home to a fish ladder that allows salmon to reach the spanning waters of the Sammamish River, making it a unique spot for visitors to witness local wildlife.

6. Go for a Hike at Discovery Park

Covering 534 acres near the Magnolia neighborhood, Discovery Park provides a variety of terrains for those wanting a bit of outdoor time in the heart of the city. Choose between forested trails, the rocky beach, and exploring the West Point Lighthouse. All areas are free and beautifully preserved by the city.

7. Join a Neighborhood Art Walk

Throughout the summer months, Seattle’s neighborhoods take turns opening their gallery doors for art lovers to explore. Pioneer Square galleries open on the first Thursday of the month, Belltown holds events on the second Friday, and Capitol Hill’s showcases occur on the second Thursday.

8. Tour the Frye Art Museum

This small museum on First Hill preserves the collection of Charles and Emma Frye, featuring more than 1000 paintings from various eras. The Frye Museum’s sensitively curated temporary shows usually lean towards modern art and provide an engaging experience for visitors.

9. Drink in the Locals’ View of the Skyline

There are far cheaper ways to take in the Seattle skyline than spending at the Space Needle. Enjoy the view over Lake Union from Gas Works Park or contemplate the skyline panorama from Kerry Park on Queen Anne Hill, both offering breathtaking sights without any entrance fees.

10. Work Up a Sweat at Green Lake and Myrtle Edwards Park

Seattleites love to stay active, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy outdoor exercise – many of them free. Whether you prefer cycling or running, the parks provide scenic loops that encourage fitness enthusiasts to stay active amid stunning natural surroundings.

11. Celebrate the Cultural Side of the City at Seattle Center

Nearly every weekend, the Seattle Center hosts various cultural festivals. From the Irish Festival in March to the Polish Festival in July, immerse yourself in international cuisine, dance, and celebration without spending anything on admission.

12. Admire Art at Roq La Rue

This gallery has secured its reputation by taking risks: the work on view skates along the edge of urban pop culture. Roq La Rue has been a significant force in pop surrealism since opening in 1998, often featured in prominent art magazines.

13. Smell the Azaleas at the Washington Park Arboretum

This lovely park offers a variety of gardens, wetlands, and mature forests threaded by paths. In spring, Azalea Way presents a stunning display of pink- and orange-flowered azaleas and rhododendrons, perfect for a relaxing stroll.

14. Visit the Historic Alki Point Lighthouse

The focal point of one of Seattle’s most popular beaches, Alki Point Lighthouse dates back to 1913 and offers limited seasonal tours. This historic landmark captures the essence of Seattle’s rich maritime history.

15. Dive into History at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

This museum, eloquently run by the US National Park Service, has exhibits, photos, and news clippings from the 1897 Klondike gold rush. Entry is free, making it a treasure trove of local history without cost to visitors.

16. Marvel at the Botanical Spheres

Amazon’s construction, known as the Spheres, opened in January 2018 and offers a unique experience for guests. With a variety of plants housed inside, visitors can explore the atrium and learn about the building’s architectural significance.

This article was first published on June 18, 2019, and updated on February 29, 2024. With numerous activities available, visiting Seattle does not need to be expensive. Take advantage of these free offerings to truly enjoy the cultural and natural beauty of the Emerald City, courtesy of iBestTravel.