Seattle has a reputation for rain, but it also has lush green spaces, mild summers and some of the best views on the West Coast. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re exploring on a tight budget with little ones in tow, the city is full of things to do that won’t cost you a cent. Here are 10 free things to do in Seattle with kids.
#1. Green Lake Park
You really can’t go wrong here. Bring your bike, your trike, your running shoes or your dog — you can easily spend a good part of the day at Green Lake, wandering the 2.8-mile path that circles the park. Along the way you’ll find:
- Two swim beaches (lifeguards on duty during the summer months)
- Plenty of picnic spots
- Sports fields, basketball courts and tennis courts across the park’s 342 acres
- A sunny wading pool that’s one of the most popular in the Seattle area
You may also enjoy: 10 Simply Splendid Things To Do In Seattle With Kids
#2. Fremont and the Troll under the Bridge
Known for its offbeat, artsy community, Fremont has plenty to offer curious visitors. Its long-running Sunday Market, full of vintage treasures and great people-watching, runs year-round, rain or shine.
Stop and see the “Waiting for the Interurban” sculpture — Seattle’s most interactive piece of public art, and one locals love to dress up for fun.
Look out for the 1950s Cold War-era rocket fuselage mounted on top of a downtown building, and the towering Lenin statue that made its way to Fremont from Slovakia.
Then head to the 18-foot troll tucked beneath the Aurora Bridge (not the Fremont Bridge — easy to mix up). Inspired by the folk tale of the Billy Goats Gruff, the troll is a must for photos — kids especially love climbing up for a picture on his head.
In summer, Fremont also hosts an outdoor cinema night, run on donations and a firm favourite with the local community.
#3. Center for Wooden Boats
At the Center for Wooden Boats on South Lake Union, you can browse the exhibits and wander the docks at no cost. There are also boat rentals, classes and workshops on offer, but if you just want to get out on the water for free, this is the place.
Visit on a Sunday and add your name to the list for a free sail — check the Center’s website for current sign-up times before you go, as these can change. While you wait for your turn, walk the docks, grab a bite nearby and soak up the atmosphere.
#4. Pike Place Market and the Waterfront
Pike Place Market needs little introduction — it’s one of the country’s oldest farmers’ markets and an essential stop on any Seattle visit. Go early for a quieter, crisp morning by the bay, or later when the market is buzzing with life.
There’s rarely a bad time to go. You’ll find live music, local craft stalls, a tempting bakery and the original Starbucks store, all under one roof.
Explore the three floors of shops beneath the main arcade, watch the famous fish-throwing at the fish stalls, and pop across the street to see Beecher’s cheese being made.
Before you leave, head to Post Alley, home of the Market Theatre — and the well-known (and rather sticky) gum wall, a quirky Seattle photo stop.
Wash your hands, then head down to the waterfront for incredible views, the piers, the Washington State Ferry Terminal, the Seattle Aquarium and plenty of places to eat. Still got energy? A little further along you’ll reach the Olympic Sculpture Park, open to the public year-round with free guided tours (check current times before you visit). Take in the modern art with the Space Needle in the background, and enjoy the view.
#5. Alki Beach
This gorgeous 2.5-mile stretch of beach marks the spot where Seattle’s first settlers landed — and it’s easy to see why they chose it. Families love the fresh air and the sweeping views across the Sound to the Olympic Mountains.
There’s sand and water play for the brave (the water stays chilly year-round), plus designated fire bins if you fancy a beach fire, or simply somewhere to sit and enjoy the sunshine.
Little ones who love hunting for treasure will find plenty of driftwood, rocks and shells along the shore. Dogs are welcome on the path but not the beach itself, which draws cyclists, runners, skaters and walkers of all kinds.
#6. Seattle Center and International Fountain
The Space Needle is what draws most visitors to Seattle Center, but it’s the buzz around it that makes people stay. The Center is full of tourists, street performers and activities — most of which come with an entry fee, from the Space Needle itself to MoPOP, the Children’s Museum and the Pacific Science Center.
But if you’re after something free among all those ticket booths, head straight for the International Fountain. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair and fully updated since, it’s a striking sight, with water jets synchronised to music. Pack a picnic and a blanket for the lawns — and don’t be surprised if a few brave kids (and adults) end up running through the water fully clothed.
#7. Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
Better known locally as the Ballard Locks, this is a genuinely unusual sight. Free guided tours run from the visitor centre during the warmer months (check current dates before you go) and explain how the locks separate salt water from fresh, manage lake levels, raise and lower boats between water levels, and help fish migrate via the fish ladder.
Watch boats of all sizes pass through, see the fish ladder through the viewing windows, and enjoy the adjoining Botanical Gardens, which also host free lawn concerts in summer (check current schedule).
#8. Hit the Museums
Seattle has a huge range of museums, perfect for a rainy day when you need somewhere warm and interesting to spend a few hours. Museums aren’t just shelter from the weather — they’re a great source of inspiration for kids and adults alike.
You can search by location or interest to plan your visit, and it’s worth checking for free admission days, as several Seattle museums offer these on a rotating schedule.
Kids especially enjoy the dinosaur displays at the Burke Museum, the museum of natural history and culture on the University of Washington campus — check current free admission days before you plan your trip.
If you’ve got music lovers in the family, Benaroya Hall (home of the Seattle Symphony) offers free tours and organ recitals on selected dates — worth checking ahead.
#9. Gas Works Park
One of the quirkiest parks around, Gas Works Park sits on the north shore of Lake Union and will make you do a double take. A former gas plant has been transformed into a picnic shelter with grills, and an old exhauster-compressor building is now a colourful children’s play barn.
Bright paint turns the old industrial equipment into playground fun, so bring the camera.
Swimming, fishing and wading aren’t allowed here, since access to the lake is restricted, but there’s still plenty to do — from exploring the play barn to flying a kite on Kite Hill. Look out for the giant sundial, and enjoy sweeping views of downtown Seattle, the Space Needle and Lake Union. In summer, you might catch the Tuesday evening sailboat races, and you’ll often see seaplanes taking off and landing on the lake.
#10. Discovery Park
You have to see this one. Once a military fort, Discovery Park is now the largest park in Seattle at 534 acres. Set on Magnolia bluff overlooking Puget Sound, it offers incredible views of both the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges.
The park has a bit of everything — forest, beach (including two miles of protected tidal shoreline), sea cliffs, sand dunes, meadows and streams. At the westernmost point of the park stands the 23-foot West Point Lighthouse, a lovely spot to aim for.
The full Loop Trail is around three miles, taking in flat, rolling and steep sections, with plenty of birdlife to spot along the way. If the full loop isn’t for you, the park also has a tennis facility, a cultural centre and a great play area for younger children.
You might also enjoy our other free family travel guides: Free Things to Do with Kids in Los Angeles, Boston and New York City.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seattle a good city for a family trip on a budget?
Yes. Seattle has an unusually large number of free parks, beaches, markets and public spaces, so it’s entirely possible to build a full day out — or a full week — around free activities.
What’s the best free thing to do in Seattle with young kids?
Green Lake Park is a great all-rounder for younger children, with a wading pool, swim beaches and plenty of open space to run around. Gas Works Park’s play barn is another firm favourite with families.
Do I need to book anything in advance for these free activities?
Some, like the Center for Wooden Boats’ Sunday sails and the Ballard Locks tours, work on a sign-up or drop-in basis with specific seasonal hours, so it’s worth checking the latest details before you travel.
Is Pike Place Market free to visit?
Yes, browsing the market itself is free — you’ll only spend money if you choose to buy food, drinks or crafts along the way.
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- Free Things to Do with Kids in New York City
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