Katie Kuchta is a writer, yoga and wellness guru, and self-proclaimed foodie. Aspiring to have the means to travel more is where her money saving tips and minimalistic lifestyle come in handy. In her spare time she can often be found cooking in the kitchen or on the hunt for the best tacos in Texas, follow her on Instagram. We’ve teamed up with her to share her tips on how to save and make your dollar stretch!
Being on a tight budget is no reason to avoid exploring Seattle. According to U.S. News & World Report, Seattle is one of the top ten best places to live in America. This is a city seeing a huge boost in migration, with more and more people flocking to the city every year to enjoy Seattle’s quality of life and relatively affordable housing.
This city on the Puget Sound offers a range of attractions for families and individuals of all backgrounds, sizes, and interests, so check out our list and get back to exploring today.
1. Go on a wine tour
Seattle is packed to the brim with wineries, with many just a short drive, walk, or ferry ride from the city center. Most offer free guided tours, and some even throw in a free tasting as a thank-you for visiting.
2. Window shop at Pike Place Market
Granted, you might end up spending a few dollars while you’re visiting this charming district, but you can still enjoy the sights at Pike Place without spending a fortune. This market, established in 1907, is one of the oldest continuously-operated farmers markets in the United States. You can sample local foods and enjoy free entertainment by talented street musicians.
3. Take in the views
The Olympic Sculpture Park is free to visit, and features a 2,500 foot, descending pedestrian path. This path leads to a well-maintained beach and offers visitors outstanding views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains. Walk the grounds and see sculptures by award-winning, world-renowned artists.
4. Learn about nature
Pay a visit to the Washington Park Arboretum, and you’ll leave with a full wallet as well as a full mind. This park is entirely free to visit and contains over 200 acres of native plants. This is a great spot to enjoy nature at its finest, as well as to learn about the native flora and fauna of Washington State.
5. Take a ferry ride
If you want to get out and explore the Sound, but don’t have much money to spend on the excursion, consider hopping aboard one of the city’s multiple ferries. While it can be somewhat expensive to shuttle a car across the Sound, passenger-only fare typically only costs a few dollars. Trust us – the views are worth it.
6. Rent some equipment and take a tour
You could certainly embark on a self-guided walking tour of Seattle, but where’s the fun in that? For just a few dollars and a visit to one of the city’s many rental shops, you can rent some inline skates, a bicycle, longboard, or sea kayak, and head out on the pavement or water. This will allow you to explore some lesser-traveled areas of the city and get in a workout at the same time – all for minimal expense.
7. Wander through the locks
While the locks are merely a way for ships to move between Puget Sound and Lakes Union and Washington, they are fascinating to watch and won’t cost you a dime. Relax and watch the parade of boats roll in or bring a pair of binoculars to get an up-close look at the sea life that flocks around the fish ladder.
8. Take a lighthouse hike
Discovery Park is over 500 acres in size and offers a vast diversity of walking trails for those seeking a bit of R&R with nature. This park contains rocky beaches, forested trails, and even a trail up to a famed lighthouse. These trails are 100 percent free and completely maintained by the city.
9. Take an art walk
Several districts in Seattle, such as Pioneer Square, Capitol Hill, and Belltown offer free art walks, particularly in the summer months. These art walks offer free gallery access and many businesses offer free specials and promotions to drum up business – a good opportunity for you to score some deals.
10. Go for a run
Seattle is one of the most active cities in the country, and with its beautiful scenery and mild climate, it’s no mystery why. Take in some fresh air and get the blood pumping by going for a run or cycle at Myrtle Edwards Park or Green Lake Park.
You don’t have to be a millionaire to enjoy everything Seattle has to offer. By getting creative with your time and sporting a fun-loving attitude, you’ll unearth hundreds of fun and recreational opportunities in this Emerald City on the shore – none of which have to break the bank.
