Seattle offers a variety of free attractions and places to visit, allowing you to enjoy the city’s culture and natural beauty without spending money. Here are some of the top free places to explore in Seattle:
1. Pike Place Market – One of Seattle’s most famous landmarks, Pike Place Market is free to explore. You can watch the fishmongers throw fish, browse local crafts, and enjoy street performances without spending a dime.
2. Kerry Park – Located on Queen Anne Hill, Kerry Park offers stunning panoramic views of Seattle, including the Space Needle, Mount Rainier, and the downtown skyline. It’s a popular spot for photos, especially at sunset.
3. Discovery Park – Seattle’s largest green space, Discovery Park is a 534-acre park that offers scenic walking trails, forests, beaches, and views of Puget Sound. It’s perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
4. Seattle Center – Home to the Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Seattle Center itself is a great place to explore for free. You can stroll around the grounds, relax in the International Fountain, and enjoy public art installations.
5. Washington Park Arboretum – A 230-acre park with beautiful gardens, trails, and a diverse collection of plants, the Washington Park Arboretum offers a peaceful escape in the heart of Seattle.
6. Alki Beach – Located in West Seattle, Alki Beach offers stunning views of downtown Seattle and the Olympic Mountains. It’s a popular spot for walking, picnicking, and enjoying the outdoors.
7. Volunteer Park – This historic park in Capitol Hill features a conservatory (though admission to the conservatory does have a small fee), a water tower with great views, and a Seattle Asian Art Museum (which offers free admission on certain days).
8. The Seattle Public Library – Central Library – Designed by architect Rem Koolhaas, the Central Library is a stunning modern building. It’s free to explore, and you can take a self-guided tour or enjoy the public spaces.
9. Fishermen’s Terminal – A quieter alternative to Pike Place Market, Fishermen’s Terminal is where you can watch working fishing boats, stroll along the waterfront, and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
10. Olympic Sculpture Park – A part of the Seattle Art Museum (SAM), the Olympic Sculpture Park is a beautiful outdoor park along the waterfront, featuring large-scale sculptures and stunning views of the Puget Sound.
11. Ballard Locks (Hiram M. Chittenden Locks) – Watch boats pass through the locks, and see the fish ladder, where salmon swim upstream during their migration. It’s a unique and educational experience, especially during the salmon runs.
12. Volunteer Park Conservatory – While there’s a small donation suggested, you can explore the beautiful plants and flowers in this Victorian-style glasshouse for free if you’re willing to skip the suggested contribution.
13. Green Lake Park – This popular park offers a 2.8-mile loop around the lake for walking, jogging, and cycling. It’s a great spot for outdoor activities and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
14. Lake Union Park – Located near downtown, this waterfront park has walking paths, a historical boat exhibit, and beautiful views of Lake Union, the Space Needle, and the city skyline.
15. The Gum Wall – Found in Post Alley near Pike Place Market, the Gum Wall is a quirky Seattle landmark. It’s essentially a wall covered in chewing gum left by visitors over the years.
Seattle also hosts numerous free festivals, events, and concerts throughout the year, so it’s always a good idea to check the city’s event calendar when you’re in town!
