This is Seattle’s beating heart, and it doesn’t cost a thing to wander. This all time popular attraction is completely free and has everything you could want to see. 

– Watch the fishmongers toss salmon in the market like pros.

– Snap a photo at the Public Market Center sign (a Seattle icon).

– Fill up on cheap eats! There are several vendors and suppliers that sell delicious snacks, sweets, and meals .

– Take a quick detour to the Gum Wall nearby. It’s completely free and everyone wants to see it. Fun fact: The gum wall can full up in just one week after being cleaned off. 

With the crazy traffic in Seattle, sometimes the best transportation is a ferry ride. The King County Water Taxi takes multiple routes everyday running from around 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM, and even offers bicycle and car transport. These rides are considerably cheap and even free for ages 18 and under. Taking this ferry ride, you get to see:

– Beautiful skyline views of downtown Seattle. 

– A breezy ride across Puget Sound.

– A chance to explore Bainbridge Island on foot.

*It’s one of the cheapest ways to get the “tour level” views without the expensive  harbor cruises.

Head over to West Seattle for a local favorite. Alki Beach is a public beach with:

– Sandy shoreline for walking, biking, or volleyball.

– Stunning views of the city skyline across the water. 

– My favorite thing to do: Search for sea glass through the rocks.

Pack snacks from the Pike Place Market and enjoy a budget beach day. 

*If you like crabs, don’t be afraid to turn over any rocks! There will be thousands on the beach! 

Alki Beach is within Puget Sound, but this specific part of the beach is also called Puget Sound. When the tide recedes, the shoreline becomes alive, showing starfish, crabs, mini pools of fish, and so much more. 

– Puget Sound when the tide is low is like visiting a free aquarium outdoors.

– Beyond the tide pools, Puget Sound offers miles of walking and biking paths, free firepits, and plenty of space to relax. 

If you’re looking for a breathtaking view near Seattle that won’t cost a fortune,  Crystal Mountain is a must. This spot offers fresh mountain air, beautiful views, and plenty of hiking trails. Best of all- hiking here is completely free.

– On clear days, you can see Mt. Rainier across the sky. (the tallest mountain in Washington).

– Pack your lunch and enjoy a meal at one of the many overlooks.  If you want to spend a little extra and experience a meal on the mountain, the summit of Crystal Mountain holds a restaurant with incredible views.

While not free, the Seattle Aquarium is definitely worth a visit if you love marine life. Tickets run about $40 for adults, so plan ahead. It’s worth the money and the memories. To save money on this visit:

– Go in the afternoon, when it’s less crowded (you’ll make the most of your ticket by having more room and time to yourself.)

– Pair it with the free nearby waterfront exploring to balance the cost.

– Buy your ticket online ahead of time! This can save you up to 20%.

*The Seattle Aquarium is located on Pier 59. Pier 57 holds a Ferris Wheel, shops, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to stop after the aquarium.

If you’re craving a trip filled with beautiful views from mountains, beaches, forests, and lakes, the Olympic Peninsula is your dream destination. Visit this spot just a couple hours from Seattle with just a small entrance fee. 

– Olympic National Park: You can access hundreds of miles of hiking trails, rainforests, alpine peaks, and coastlines. 

– Hoh Rain Forest: This mossy forest is unlike anything I have ever seen. The trails are mostly flat, easy, and don’t require any gear. 

– Ruby Beach: This wild beach is ideal for tide-pooling, driftwood forts, and incredible picture opportunities. All free activities. 

*The Olympic Peninsula offers adventure for every type of traveler, and you don’t need to spend big to experience it. 

If you want the taste of Downtown Seattle without any of the price tags, head to the corner of SW Alaska St. and California Ave. Every Sunday, this intersection transforms into a lively farmers market. Heres how you can make the most of this farmers market while staying on budget. 

– Shop fresh and local: Farmers often sell produce, flowers, and baked goods at lower prices than supermarkets. 

– Small vendors: Handmade soaps, candles, and crafts make unique souveniers that won’t break the bank. 

– Enjoy free entertainment: Street performers and live music often pop up around the market, making it a full experience without added costs. 

*Bring cash and reusable bags to save on card fees and carry your finds with ease.