Cities within the US can be quite pricey to live in. Seattle is no exception.
The city gained the nickname “The Emerald City” in the mid-1980s mostly due to the lush, green forests of Washington and hundreds of acres of natural parks stretching on the city’s boundaries. Also considered as one of the greenest cities in the US, Seattle prides itself with the harmony of the modern concrete jungle and the evergreen forests. If you just know where to look, there are still plenty of things to do and places to visit for free in Seattle.
Once you arrive at Seattle-Tacoma (SeaTac) Airport, there are many places to visit nearby. Once you secure your parking at Seatac airport, you’ll have a worry-free travel not just to and from the airport, but also around the city. You can then freely explore the city and spend less or even zero.
Visit Pike Place Fish Market
If you have already eaten breakfast or snacks while on the plane but want to check out where you can buy fresh seafood, Pike Place Fish Market is the place to visit. It also has many retail shops and places to explore. The recommended places and sites to visit are Rachel the Pig, Gum Wall, Flying Fish and Starbucks.
Take a Walk Around Seattle Center
The Seattle Center is a 74-acre art, recreational, cultural and civic center, originally constructed for the 1962 World’s Fair, also known as Century 21, and gave Seattle world-wide recognition. The Space Needle is a testament of the momentous event and has become a permanent structure and one of the symbols of the city and the World’s Fair itself.
The Seattle Center Armory is another place you can visit within the center. Originally built in 1939, it features local foods and beverages, cultural celebrations and free performances. From its 60-ft outdoor deck, you can enjoy a wider view of Seattle Center and appreciate its full beauty.
You can also get to see the remnants of history from the “old armory”, where it once housed the 146th Field Artillery and its half-ton tanks. The basement of the Armory still has the markings of the old firing range and an unfinished swimming pool once intended for military recruits. Yearly, over 3,000 free public performances are offered in the Seattle Center Armory.
Take a Nature Trip at Seattle Chinese Garden and South Seattle College Arboretum
The 4.6-acre Seattle Chinese Garden is considered as one of the largest Chinese gardens outside of China. You can experience Chinese culture and garden customs that feature elements of plants, stones, architecture and water. The garden has no admission and is open daily, although donations are greatly appreciated.
Another equally grand site just adjacent to the Chinese garden is the South Seattle College (SSC) Arboretum. This 5-acre arboretum and botanical garden is also free to the public. It sits on the edge of a bluff and offers captivating views of Elliott Bay, downtown Seattle and West Duwamish Greenbelt.
Just because a place has a high cost of living, it doesn’t mean you can’t do anything for free. Seattle is a great place to visit and there are still things you can do and places you can visit for free. All it takes is to be resourceful and ask locals for tips and advice. This way, you can get to enjoy Seattle without having to empty your pockets.