Seattle is a great city to explore, but admittedly, it can get pretty pricey. Don’t let your wallet stop you from getting outside and going on an adventure or two, because there are plenty of free things to do in Seattle that won’t cost you a penny. Whether you’re off on a solo journey or you’ve got some friends in town and you want to show off how beautiful Seattle is, these free attractions are the perfect places to visit when you want to get out of the house without breaking the bank.

1. Visit the Seattle Library
Seattle Public Library-Central Library, 1000 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
Flickr/Ming-yen Hsu
Flickr/Thomas Hawk
Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Rem Koolhaas, the downtown Seattle library is more than just a place to check out books. They offer all kinds of free classes, an interesting guided tour, and, of course, plenty of free books, movies, and music to check out.
2. Go to the Olympic Sculpture Park
Olympic Sculpture Park, 2901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, USA
Flickr/Diana K
The Olympic Sculpture Park is open free to the public every day of the year. If you're looking for things to do in Seattle this weekend, and the weather is in your favor, this beautiful park is a home run. It’s a great opportunity to get outside and take in Seattle’s beauty while looking at all of the amazing sculptures.
3. Stroll through Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market, Seattle, WA, USA
Flickr/Aaron Hockley
Pike Place Market is so packed with interesting sights and sounds, from abundant fresh flowers and produce, to seafood to local artisan crafts, you’ll forget you’re too broke to buy anything. Plus, you can get tons of free samples, so a trip through the market will allow you to taste the local flavors without spending a dime.
4. Visit the Frye Art Museum
Frye Art Museum, 704 Terry Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
Flickr/Curtis Cronn
If the weather isn't cooperating, this is one of the best free things to do in Seattle. The Frye Art Museum is always free, with free parking to boot. Their collection of 19th and 20th century American, German, and French paintings features many well-known artists, like Winslow Homer, Andy Warhol, and many more.
5. Go for a boat ride at the Center for Wooden Boats
The Center for Wooden Boats, 1010 Valley St, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
Flickr/Sean O’Neill
One of the most unique things to do in Seattle, here you can get a taste of Seattle’s mariner life with a boat ride at the Center for Wooden Boats. They offer a few different free programs, so check the website for more information. Just make sure to get there early to sign up, because it’s a popular activity.
6. Go fly a kite at Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park, 2101 N Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103, USA
Flickr/Michael Martin
Gas Works Park is a huge park next to Lake Union where you can hang out, check out the sundial, revel in the view of downtown Seattle and fly kites from a large hill. Yes, that's right... when's the last time you flew a kite?
7. Hear the Seattle Symphony
Seattle Symphony, 200 University St, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
Flickr/stephen velasco
The Symphony often plays free concerts for the community, all you need to do is check their calendar to find the next upcoming event.
8. Go to the Fremont Sunday Market
Fremont Sunday Street Market, 3401 Evanston Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103, USA
Flickr/ChrisPentax
The Fremont Sunday Market is an amazing flea market where you can also buy fresh flowers, produce, crafts, and more. Taking in the charm of Fremont while taking a leisurely stroll and checking out the wares is one of the best free things to do in Seattle, and who knows... you might just find something you can't live without!
9. Go to the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture
Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, 4300 15th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
Flickr/Alyx Dellamonica
Sometimes, you need to do a little planning to seek out all of the free things to do in Seattle. The Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture is free on the first Thursday of every month, with extended hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The museum is a treasure trove of cultural and natural history artifacts that will fascinate any history lover.
10. Go for a wine tasting at Chateau Ste. Michelle
Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, 14111 NE 145th St, Woodinville, WA 98072, USA
Flickr/David Herrera
The Chateau Ste. Michelle is located about 15 miles outside of Seattle, but it still deserves a spot on this list. Washington's oldest winery is one of the most unique things you can do in the Seattle area, and they're always hosting different free events, so be sure to check their calendar for a full lineup.

For more frugal entertainment options in Washington state, check out these 12 Awesome Things To Do in Washington For Free.

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free things to do in Seattle

Jackie Ann | July 26, 2022

What are the most unique things to do in Seattle?

If you’re interested in the afterlife, Seattle’s Museum of Death is one of the most unique things you can do in Seattle, but be warned: it’s not for the faint of heart. This unique museum is full of interesting artifacts related to death and the afterlife, including coffins, embalming tools, and much more. If you’d rather learn in a more…traditional way…then you’ve got to check out the Seattle Central Library. This massive library clocks in at over 360,000 square feet with 11 stories full of reading nooks, games, public computers, and much more. There are even designated sections for kids, teens, and adults!

What are the most beautiful hikes in Seattle?

One of the most picture-perfect hiking trails near Seattle is just about a 20-25 minute drive away from the city, and it’s worth the extra effort. The hiking trail at Marine View Park is a short, moderately difficult trail that leads to a 3-story observation tower with truly incredible views of the Pacific Northwest. Further down the trail, you’ll even find a rocky beach to enjoy, and if you can time your visit right, you’ll be rewarded with one of the best sunset views in Washington.

Where can I find unique shopping destinations in Seattle?

In a major city like Seattle, you’ll find ample shopping opportunities from the moment your plane touches down. One of the coolest places to shop in Seattle is the iconic Pike Place Market.  Founded in 1907, the market sprawls out for nine acres in downtown Seattle and is one of the oldest and largest continuously operating public markets in the country. From fresh fish to jewelry designers, there are more than 500 vendors at the market at any given time, so you’re sure to find something here that you just can’t live without.

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