Ultimate List of Free Things to Do in Seattle

Seattle, WA, is a great destination, offering a unique blend of urban attractions, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. 

Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, culinary spots, and the city's thriving arts and music scene. Surrounded by mountains, forests, and water, the Emerald City also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. 

If you’re visiting the city on a budget, this guide enumerates the best free things to do in Seattle.

The Ultimate List of Free Things to Do in Seattle

Credit: Photo by Jason Leung on Unsplash | Source

1.  Stroll Through Pike Place Market 

Strolling through the various levels of Pike Place Market is one of the best free things to do in Seattle. 

Pike Place Market is one of Seattle's most popular tourist spots, a valuable jewel in the Pacific Northwest's crown. The market features a range of stalls, from fishmongers and florists to food stands.

Fish throwing is a must-see tradition! Whenever a customer buys fish, it's tossed from the front display to the fishmongers behind the counter to be wrapped and prepared. 

2.  Visit the Olympic Sculpture Park

Managed by the Seattle Art Museum, the Olympic Sculpture Park is home to 22 monumental sculptures by modern artists, such as Tony Smith, Mark di Suvero, and Louise Bourgeois. 

Notable sculptures include The Eagle by Calder, Split by Roxy Paine, and Schubert Sonata and Bunyon's Chess by Mark di Suvero. The park also includes Stinger and Wandering Rocks by Tony Smith.

Credit: Photo by Louie Cepeda on Unsplash | Source

3.  Take a Walk in Kubota Garden

The Kubota Garden is a historic 20-acre Japanese garden in Rainier Beach. It was established in 1927 by Fujitaro Kubota, a Japanese immigrant and self-taught gardener.

In 1990, Kubota Garden became one of the first projects ever funded by the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program. 

The garden, one of the top Seattle free attractions, is open daily from dawn to dusk.

4.  Explore Discovery Park

The 534-acre Discovery Park is popular for its diverse natural landscapes, historical sites, and recreational opportunities. 

The park features hiking trails, beaches, and the iconic West Point Lighthouse. It also offers opportunities for picnicking, birdwatching, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna.

Credit: Photo by Zach Searcy on Unsplash | Source

7.  Take in the View at Kerry Park

Nestled on Queen Anne Hill, Kerry Park is a Seattle landmark that offers visitors a spectacular view of the Seattle Space Needle, Mount Rainier, and Elliott Bay.

On a clear day, you can witness a postcard-perfect scene of Seattle’s skyline. The park provides a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it an ideal spot for those who simply want to relax.

8.  Tour the Seattle Public Library

The Seattle Public Library system is spread throughout the city, with charming libraries in every neighborhood.

The Seattle Central Library is a remarkable attraction worth visiting for its unique, award-winning architecture, a vast collection of books, and the epic Red Floor.

Credit: Photo by Brett Wharton on Unsplash | Source

9. Explore Washington Park Arboretum

The Washington Park Arboretum offers a relaxing escape with its beautiful scenery, diverse plant collections, and plenty of opportunities for exploration and education.

The park stretches from Madison Valley to Union Bay, with a wide variety of gardens home to over 5,500 plant species, a wetlands nature trail, and 200 acres of mature forest threaded by paths.

10.  Visit the Frye Art Museum

The Frye Art Museum is the only completely free art museum in Seattle. Its collection spans from the 19th century to the present day, including European paintings and contemporary art. 

The Frye Founding Collection, displayed in a salon-style hang, features more than 100 paintings. The museum regularly hosts exhibitions and programs that allow visitors to engage with the artists.

Conclusion

Seattle, WA, is a great destination with its iconic landmarks, culinary spots, natural beauty, vibrant culture, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. While visiting the city can get quite expensive, there are numerous ways to enjoy Seattle on a budget.

If you’d like to know more about the Emeral City, specifically its real estate offerings, please give me a call today at (206)-501-8484 or send me an email at matthewbchapman@windermere.com to schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any free museums in Seattle?

Yes, the Frye Art Museum is a completely free art museum in Seattle. The museum features a collection from the 19th century to the present day, including European paintings and contemporary art.

How can I see the Space Needle for free?

You can enjoy a spectacular view of the Seattle Space Needle from Kerry Park, along with the city skyline, Mount Rainier, and Elliott Bay.

What parks in Seattle are free to visit?

Olympic Sculpture Park, Discovery Park, and Kerry Park are some of the parks that you can visit in Seattle for free.

Is Pike Place Market free to enter?

Yes, there is no entrance fee for Pike Place Market.