Alright, so last weekend I figured let’s find totally free stuff to do around Seattle without spending a dime. Grabbed my notebook and phone, wore comfy shoes cause this meant serious walking.
The early morning gamble
First up, I hit Pike Place Market at sunrise. Most folks think it’s just shopping, but nah. I wandered past vendors setting up, watched them throw fish just for practice with zero crowds. Free entertainment! Sniffed all the flower stalls – nobody charges for smelling roses, right? The gum wall’s still gross but hey, it’s free to stare at chewed-up bubblegum art.
Waterfront wandering
Walked downhill to Olympic Sculpture Park. Didn’t pay squat for that view. That giant red sculpture thing? Took five awkward selfies with it. Saw a guy proposing near the rusty bird statues – free romantic drama! The beach area was full of driftwood people had stacked into teepees. Added my own stick. Felt weirdly proud.
Afternoon museum cheat
Here’s a hack: Seattle Art Museum’s lobby is free to enter even without tickets. Their giant Hammering Man installation moves for free in the window. Peeked at the gift shop’s fancy postcards – pretended to consider buying. Pro tip: third Thursday’s totally free admission but today wasn’t that so… lobby it is.
Greenspace recovery mode
My feet were killing me so I bussed to Discovery Park. Free shuttle from visitor center! Hiked to the lighthouse:
- Saw baby seals bobbing in the waves
- Almost stepped on a banana slug
- Found driftwood shaped like a dragon head (left it there for the next person)
Forgot snacks but drank from the water fountain like a true cheapster.
Sunset grand finale
The day ended at Kerry Park. Everyone clusters there for Space Needle pics but guess what? The view’s FREE. Watched the sky turn pink behind the skyline while tourists elbowed for space. Funny thing – an eagle flew right over the Needle during golden hour. Got the shot on my phone! Packed a thermos of home coffee to avoid overpriced cafes.
Final tally: walked 11 miles, spent $1.50 on bus fare (shoulda walked more), and felt like I hacked the system. Moral? Seattle gives you cool stuff if you’re okay with tired feet and bringing your own snacks.
