seattle free tours by foot

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Greater Seattle on the Cheap

Free things to do, cheap fun, discounts and deals in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area

Our big list of free & cheap tours (guided, self-guided, virtual)

We found a cache of free tours (and a few cheap ones at $15 or less) that visitors and residents alike will enjoy. Each tour is unique to Seattle, something you won’t find anywhere else. We think that makes them priceless. But, we’ll take free!

The free tours included guided tours, self-guided tours, walking tours, and virtual tours on a variety of interesting topics at sites around the greater Seattle-Tacoma metro area. Most of these cheap and free tours are offered year-round. The last section features seasonal tours offered only at certain times of the year.

Free Seattle tours

In-person guided Seattle Free Walking Tours include the flagship “Seattle 101” and “Market Experience” tours, as well as other premium partner tours loved by both residents and visitors alike. These tours aim to educate you about Seattle’s diverse history and culture, where we came from, and who we are now. Yes, the tours are free. Of course donations are gratefully accepted. Seattle Free Walking Tours sustains itself through your generous gratuities. More info: Seattle Free Walking Tours (walk-seattle.com)

Self-guided HistoryLink Seattle Waterfront Tour. The Seattle Waterfront is a place where people have been gathering for centuries. Long ago, canoes could easily land anywhere along the beach. But when sailing ships and steamships arrived and piers were erected, railroad tracks were laid to transport the cargo on land. Then came a seawall and Alaskan Way for autos—this vehicular route and the elevated Alaskan Way Viaduct shaped the waterfront for over five decades. With the removal of the Alaskan Way Viaduct and realignment of Alaskan Way underway, the waterfront is again transforming, this time incorporating recreation and care of the environment. You can explore the waterfront first-hand with HistoryLink’s 16-stop Walking Tour of Seattle’s Central Waterfront. Download the app for a self-guided tour. More info: HistoryLink Tours — Seattle’s Central Waterfront

Self-Guided GPS Walking Tours to Explore Seattle. Expert-designed walking tours at your own pace using the smartphone app “GPSmyCity”. Each walk comes with a detailed tour map as well as photos and background information for the featured attractions. The app’s navigation functions guide you from one attraction to the next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad. More info: 10 Self-Guided Walking Tours in Seattle, Washington + Maps (gpsmycity.com)

(Not free) Seattle Stadium Tours

Check our list of stadium tours of CenturyLink Field, T-Mobile Park, Husky Stadium

Free King County & Washington State tours

King County Wastewater Treatment Division (WTD) isn’t the sexiest tour on this list. But it is fascinating stuff. And let’s face it, you take in (and…uh…release) lots of water everyday. The King County WTD provides free educational programs focusing on the importance of clean water, the history of sanitation, and how to steward our waterways and prevent pollution. Throughout the year, they host a variety of public tours, family programs, classes & workshops, other events, and resources. You can earn about their work, water treatment plants and other facilities, and the importance of clean water in our community. All-in-all it’s fun and interesting stuff. You can find upcoming tours and events on our calendar, or visit them directly to find out about upcoming events:  https://www.kingcounty.gov/services/environment/wastewater/education/events.aspx  

Self-guided HistoryLink Washington State walking tours. Written by HistoryLink’s network of experts in local history, these easy-to-use self-guided walking tours — with audio and translation — explore popular Seattle neighborhoods and surrounding cities with a nod to the past. Meticulously researched and richly illustrated, each walking tour is easily reached via public transit. More info: HistoryLink Tours — Self-Guided Historical Walking Tours of Washington State

Free tours about technology

Amazon offers several ways to see its headquarters in downtown Seattle.

• Amazon Headquarter tour lasts about 90 minutes and takes visitors through a few buildings on Amazon’s Seattle urban campus, including Doppler, Day 1, and The Spheres. Free, but requires advance registration.
• Spheres are an extensive collection of biodiversity that explores the value of conservation in an urban environment. More than 40,000 plants from the cloud forest regions of over 30 countries range from tiny epiphytes that cling to a 50-foot living wall to Rubi, a 49-year-old ficus tree. Free Spheres tours are offered two Saturdays per month and require  advance reservation.
• Understory is a free, self-guided, museum-style exhibit where guests can learn about Amazon and The Spheres. Please be aware that the Understory exhibit is separate from the indoor gardens of The Spheres.
• Free Audio Tour Listen gives customers a sense of Amazon’s history, a taste of the peculiar culture and customer obsession, a guide around the unique urban campus, and explains the company’s connection to the surrounding community. Available on Audible.com.

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation near Seattle Center works to tackle critical problems in four program areas: Development (addresses hunger and poverty), Health (advances in science to save lives), high school and postsecondary education in Washington State, and Policy & Advocacy to promote policies that help advance the work of the Foundation. Public Drop-In free tours are offered Tuesdays through Saturday from 2-3pm. Advance registration is not required. After your tour, be sure to visit the interactive gallery to see new ideas, suggestions, and inventions from other visitors. For more information, visit the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation website.

Bullitt Center, World’s Greenest Building. The Bullitt Center demonstrates that it is possible to exist comfortably and productively in a modern environment, while making the least possible demand on resources. The goal of the Bullitt Center is to drive change in the marketplace faster and further by showing what’s possible today. Using only off-the-shelf products that any building project could choose, the design team and public sector partners achieved net zero energy, net zero water, and net zero carbon, using composting toilets and toxic-free materials, plus a grand stairway and 90-percent-plus day lighting in a six-story infill office building in a dense, urban neighborhood. Tours include the building’s mechanical and electrical rooms, the gray water and rainwater treatment systems, non-flush toilets and the “irresistible” stairway. Public tour tickets are $5 and advance reservations are required. For available tour dates, and to make a reservation, visit the Bullitt Tour page .

Geocaching HQ Visitor Center. Geocaching HQ is where the tools for global geocaching adventures are created and maintained. Before your visit, you might want to check out the Fremont nieghborhood, by completing the Geocaching HQ GeoTour. Print out your GeoTour passport at home, then stamp the spaces as you find each geocache. These nine geocaches will lead you to some of the best geocaches in the neighborhood as well as great shops, restaurants, and sights. The entire walking GeoTour takes 2.5 to 3 hours to complete. Once completed, bring your passport to the visitor center to get a gold stamp of completion, plus take time to snap a photo in the photo booth, and buy souvenirs in the gift shop, and peruse the geocache museum. Free, d rop-in self-guided tours are usually available weekdays, except holidays. Check their website for hours and closure information. To get started,  schedule your visit .

KEXP is a nonprofit arts organization serving music lovers through in-person, broadcast and online programming. KEXP operates one of the most influential listener-supported radio stations in the world, 90.3 KEXP-FM Seattle, with online and on-air service reaching over 200,000 global listeners each week.  On KEXP’s YouTube channel , videos of exclusive live performances garner millions of views per week. At their home at Seattle Center, KEXP hosts community events and produces hundreds of live performances each year, many of which are open to the public at no charge. 45-minutes tours are offered daily at 2:00 pm (excluding most holidays), and during summer (June-August) additionally at 10:00 am. Reservations are encouraged. Walk-ins are welcome, but subject to availability. For more information, visit the KEXP website or make a KEXP Tour Reservation .

Microsoft Visitor Center (MVC), located about 15 miles northeast of Seattle in Redmond offers self-guided, interactive free tours during regular business hours. At the MVC, you will experience some of the latest technology products, explore hands-on exhibits, and learn about the people whose ideas and creativity make Microsoft a world leader in computer and software technology. Most people get through in 30 to 60 minutes, but you can take as much time as you like. No registration is required. However, be sure to check the schedule on the Microsoft Visitor Center website or call the MVC before you head over; they may be closed if a private event is scheduled.

Museum of Flight Restoration Center and Reserve Collection , located 25 miles north of Seattle at Paine Field in Everett is a 23,000 square-foot facility where acquired aircraft are restored. A group of dedicated volunteers puts in thousands of man hours each year, working to restore each aircraft to exhibition quality in the most historically accurate way possible. On the Restoration Tour, you can get a look at all the labor that goes into aircraft restoration and get a chance to talk to volunteers on site.  The Restoration Tour is available Wednesday-Sunday during business hours (9AM–4PM). Tickets : Adults (18 +) $5, Youths (5-17) $3, Children (4 and under) FREE. MOF Members also get in FREE.

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Free tours about food

Check our list of free and cheap cooking classes and food tours throughout the region, including coffee, chocolate, cheese, and self-guided walking tours.

Unique free tours

Outdoor clothing and gear manufacturer. For more than 100 years, Filson of Seattle has manufactured outdoor clothes and accessories using the best raw materials and construction techniques for garments, bags, and outdoor gear that make them last for generations. During your tour, you may even get a peek at some new items the product team has in development upstairs. Filson factory free tours are offered twice a week at their store located in the SODO district, located south of the sports stadiums on First Avenue South. Visit the Filson tour page to sign up for a tour.

Outdoor sculpture and park tour at SAM’s Olympic Sculpture Park, Seattle’s premier waterfront park, features world-class sculpture against the spectacular backdrop of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Guided free tours require no registration (just show up). During a tour, you will explore Olympic Park’s dynamic spaces, learn about the park design, discover the monumental works of art, and more. Tours are typically offered spring through fall, on Saturday and/or Sunday afternoon. Check the tour calendar on the Seattle Art Museum (SAM)  website before you head out. Olympic Sculpture Park is always free and open 365 days a year. The Park opens 30 minutes prior to sunrise and closes 30 minutes after sunset.

Chinatown free online tour. Explore Seattle’s Chinatown in “ 16 Square Blocks “, online multimedia documentary by Andrew Hida that celebrates the stories and people of the 16 block area known as the Seattle Chinatown International District. Through photos and documentary shorts images, it is a contemporary presentation of this neighborhood’s people and their histories. Andrew Hida is an award-winning filmmaker and video producer who believes in the power of non-fiction visual storytelling to create powerful, compelling and beautiful stories about the human experience.

Historic tours

Historic Seattle walking tour. The Trail to Treasure Map is a free self-guided Walking Tour of Seattle’s Pioneer Square Historic District immediately south of the central downtown business district. Explore the rich history of the city’s oldest neighborhood. The map identifies 16 special places and events that helped shape the history and development of Pioneer Square, the city of Seattle, and the greater Puget Sound region. You can choose to pick up the trail at any of the 16 stops. Pick up a map in the visitor center at Klondike Gold Rush Park , 319 2nd Ave South, Seattle, or at participating locations throughout the district. In addition, free ranger-led Seattle Historic District Walking Tours are offered during summer (Memorial Day weekend and runs through Labor Day weekend). Tours generally last 45-60 minutes. Be prepared to walk on uneven terrain throughout the historic district, and expect weather ranging from warm and sunny to wet and cool. While the program is free, space is limited to 20 individuals on a first come basis. All tours begin the Visitor Center. See the tour web page for schedule or more details.

Seattle’s Central District Tour. Also called the Central Area, or CD, this area has been a hub for Black business and culture since the 1960s. The neighborhood spans four square miles, bound to the north by East Madison Street, to the West by 12th Avenue, to the south by South Jackson Street, and to the east by Martin Luther King Jr. Way. Home to the oldest residential area in the city, many single-family homes in the Central District were built prior to 1900. William Grose, a successful Black business owner, purchased a 12-acre ranch bordering the north end of the Central District in 1882. As more Black families arrived in Seattle in the late 1880s and early 1890s, Grose helped many of them secure homes by selling them lots from his parcel. The ethnic and racial makeup of the Central District has always been in flux. A predominantly Jewish and Italian neighborhood prior to World War I gave way to Japanese immigrants and Japanese Americans by the 1930s. World War II brought significant numbers of Black Americans to the Pacific Northwest, both to serve in the military and to work in war-related industries. The practice of “redlining” that developed after WWII forced Black Americans to make their homes in the Central District, alongside Asian Americans and Latinx Americans. The resulting community developed a wealth of arts and cultural organizations, businesses, and services. The Central District is home to the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute, Mount Zion Baptist Church, and several historic Black homes. For decades, the 23rd Avenue corridor stretching from East Madison Street south to South Jackson Street served as the main business and civic hub for Black Seattleites. While the city’s development and population growth have disproportionately impacted residents and business in the Central District, 23rd Avenue persists as a center of community pride, art, spirit, and joy. This self-guided walking tour from HistoryLink begins at the intersection of 23rd Avenue and E Union Street. Tour info: HistoryLink Tours — Central District . 

Stimson-Green Mansion tour. The Washington Trust offers regular public tours of the Stimson-Green Mansion on Seattle’s First Hill. Tours provide insights into the architectural character and interior design features of one of Seattle’s most impressive examples of turn-of the-20th century residential architecture as well as a lively look at the life and times of the Stimson and Green families and their First Hill neighborhood. Public tours are typically (but not always) offered the second Tuesday of each month from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. The cost is $10 . Pre-registration is required through Brown Paper Tickets .

Historic theater tours. Seattle Theatre Group operates three  Seattle Historic Landmarks: The Paramount, The Moore, and The Neptune Theatres. Performances include Broadway productions, concerts, stage plays, lectures, education, community, and film programs. You can take free guided tours of each historic theater, led by a well-versed volunteer staff, for a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes at each of these storied venues. For more information, visit STG theater free tours .

Pioneer presentation in Poulsbo. “ Poulsbo Pioneer ” in the historic Martinson Cabin is the setting for a hands-on lesson exploring life in Washington State at the turn of the 20th century, with artifacts dating from the 1880s to 1930. Participants will view the inside of the cabin, listen to stories of early Poulsbo, and take part in discovering the uses for a variety of early Poulsbo artifacts. Available weekdays by appointment, scheduled at least one week in advance. Each session will last approximately 60-90 minutes.  Tickets: $10 per person for up to 10 participants.

Seattle architecture tours are offered at locations throughout the city by The Seattle Architecture Foundation (SAF). Architectural tours can introduce you to the profound influence of the built environment in neighborhoods throughout Seattle, including architectural styles and Seattle history. To enjoy these tours, you should be capable of walking and standing for at least two hours. SAF tours are not recommended for children under 12, except tours specifically designed for younger children. Tours may not be ADA compliant. Tours are offered on Fridays and Saturdays, excluding holidays. During Summer, tours may also be offered on Thursdays. Tickets are $25 on the day of the tour (unless sold out). Discount : $18 advance purchase. For upcoming architecture tour dates or to purchase advance tickets, visit the SAF tour ticket calendar:  http://seattlearchitecture.strangertickets.com/calendar .

Garden tours

For garden tours, check our list of arboretums and gardens for free self-guided tours in any season.

Seasonal free tours

The following free tours of attractions in and around Seattle are of limited duration, offered only during certain times of the year due to their seasonal nature.

King County election ballot counting, is one of the more inspired and unique free tours where you get to see democracy in action at the King County Election office in Renton. No appointment is needed for the FREE public viewing loop . The viewing loop is open during business hours with extended hours on Election Days. The Elections office recommends visiting during an election, which usually take place in February, April, August, and November. For a list of current elections, visit  http://www.kingcounty.gov/depts/elections/elections . For direction to the Elections Office, visit http://kingcounty.gov/depts/elections/about-us/contact-us/directions . Here are the planned election dates and deadlines in Washington State:

Virtual: King County Elections ballot counting tours King County Elections has suspended in-person tours due to the continued COVID-19 crisis to keep both staff and voters safe and healthy. Meanwhile, you can use virtual options to watch our election process at work: https://youtu.be/oR8ZRqCmnec https://kingcounty.gov/depts/elections/about-us/security-and-accountability/watch-us-in-action.aspx . Active only when election ballots are being counted; look up Current election dates – King County

Hiram M. Chittenden (aka “Ballard”) Locks are situated in the Ballard neighborhood along the Lake Washington Ship Canal , which bisects the city of Seattle. Ballard Locks  is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers . The ship canal connects (salt water) Puget Sound to (fresh water) Lake Washington. The locks accommodate the approximately 20-foot difference in water level between the sound and the lake. The Locks are the Nation’s busiest, with over 40,000 vessels per year. Open to ship traffic 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the locks provide a transportation route for thousands of commercial vessels and pleasure craft. Guided Free Tours (March-November): No registration is required. The walking tour lasts about an hour. Tour times: Summer (May – September) Seven days a week at 1:00 pm & 3:00 pm, plus 11:00 am on Saturday and Sunday. Winter (March-April and October-November: Thursday – Monday 2:00 pm. No free tours January, February, and December. Self-guided free tours: stop at the visitor center to pick up a brochure. Visitor center hours: summer (May-September) open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; winter ( October-April) closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, open Thurs-Mon: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free fish ladder viewing : A special feature of this park is the fish ladder viewing gallery, where you can watch salmon migrate mid-June through September. The fish ladder and grounds around the Locks, the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens, are open everyday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., including all holidays.

Skagit Valley tulip fields April 1-30 and is one of the destination events for the Pacific Northwest. Hundreds of thousands of people from every state across the United States and from around the world have visited the area to see millions of tulips burst into bloom. The Skagit Tulip festival is designed as a free self-guided driving tour. Hundreds of acres of blooming flowers are scattered across farms throughout the valley. The festival is not just about tulips; there are also daffodils, irises, and hyacinths. Check the Bloom Map to see what is blooming during your visit, as well as the tulip festival events list to see what else is happening on the days you plan to visit There are many other activities to enjoy in the area, such as art galleries and museums, breweries and wineries, farms and nurseries, plenty of food options, and much more.

Getaway: Pump-Generating Plant at Grand Coulee Dam (230 miles northeast of Seattle). This free guided tour of the of the John W. Keys III Pump-Generating Plant at Grand Coulee Dam in Eastern Washington is available only on a first-come, first-served basis. The 50-minute guided tour begins with a bus ride to the Pump-Generating Plant. Highlights of the tour include a look at the large pumps used for transporting water from Lake Roosevelt to the Columbia Basin Project, concluding with a ride across the top of the dam. Accessible tours are available with advanced notice by calling (509) 633-9265. All tour participants are required to pass through a metal detector prior to beginning the tour. Weapons, purses, bags, backpacks, fanny packs, and packages are not permitted on the tour. Cameras, but not camera cases, are allowed on the tour. Onsite storage for personal belongings is not available. Be sure to lock your car. Tour times are subject to change without notice. Please call the Grand Coulee Dam Visitor Center at (509) 633-9265 for the latest information. Tours operate several times a day from April – October, visit the tour website for more information: https://www.usbr.gov/pn/grandcoulee/visit/tour.html .  You might also like: https://www.greaterseattleonthecheap.com/grand-coulee-dam-recreation-area/ .

Getaway: Solar Energy. The Wild Horse Wind/Solar Facility (130 miles east of Seattle) takes advantage of the wind and sun in Kittitas County, which are a tremendous natural resource for producing clean, renewable energy. Set high on a ridge, Puget Sound Energy’s Renewable Energy Center offers a first-hand look at how these elements are turned into electricity. Overlookingg the facility’s 149 wind turbines, you also enjoy 360-degree views of Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, Mount Hood, and the Columbia River Basin. Weather permitting, free guided 45-60 minute walking tour depart daily, April 1 through November 15 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m . No reservation is needed for these tours. Dress for the weather. Wind speeds average 17 mph, and it is typically 10 degrees colder on the ridge. Closed-toed shoes are REQUIRED. The tour covers a 1/2 mile on gravel trails. Those with mobility issues can arrange vehicle access with site staff. All participants must sign a liability form. Minors must have the liability form signed by a parent or guardian to participate in the tour. Tours can be cancelled or modified at any time due to inclement weather, high winds, or any unsafe conditions.

Artist studio tours. Throughout the year, artists in the Puget Sound region open their studios to the public, presenting the opportunity to meet artists in their creative spaces, see many diverse styles, and a wide variety of mediums. Art Studio Tours are free and artwork is also available for purchase.

• Camano Island Studio Tour (located about 60 miles north of Seattle, west of I-5) is typically offered Mother’s Day weekend and the weekend following Mother’s Day.
• Edmonds Art Studio Tour takes place in the fall.
• Seattle Art Studio Tour in northeast Seattle takes place in spring. 
• Seattle “Sampling” Art Studio Tour in West Seattle and Ballard takes place every December.
• Vashon Island Art Studio Tour spans two weekends twice each year in May and in December.

Northwest Glass Pumpkins September-October. The traveling glass pumpkin patches “sprout” in several locations throughout the region, for several weeks in the fall. Each glass pumpkin patch features over 1,000 hand-blown glass pumpkins, crafted by local glass artisans. You can wander through a dazzling array of one-of-a kind glass pumpkins in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. The glass pumpkins are for sale and certainly make unique gifts. In these gardens, viewing happens rain or shine and admission is FREE . For information on the current locations, visit Northwest Glass Pumpkins.

These free and cheap tours can be enjoyed throughout the year by visitors and residents. This list of tours included guided tours, self-guided tours, and walking tours at sites and attractions around the Seattle-Tacoma metro area. If you manage to get through all of these free and cheap tours, then check out our list of free things to do in Seattle and around Puget Sound .

Calendar of classes, talks, & tours

Here are upcoming classes, talks, and tours of all kinds in the Puget Sound region.

Friday, April 19, 2024

Craft distillery tours on seattle waterfront.

$20.00 | Copperworks Distilling Co, 1250 Alaskan Way Seattle, WA 98101

Saturday, April 20, 2024

Free tour 3rd saturday of historic neptune theatre in seattle.

10:00 am to 11:30 am | FREE | Neptune Theatre

FREE Education Center Saturdays at Puyallup Fish Hatchery

10:00 am to 2:00 pm | FREE | Puyallup Fish Hatchery, 1416 14th Street SW, Puyallup, WA 98371

Hosting Native Pollinators in Your Garden in Everett

11:00 am to 12:00 pm | FREE | Everett Library, 2702 Hoyt Ave., Everett, WA 98201

Weekends: free guided tour at Bellevue Botanical Garden (donation suggested, walk-ins OK)

12:00 pm | FREE | Bellevue Botanical Garden, 12001 Main Street, Bellevue, WA 98005

Foraging and using seaweed on Whidbey Island

3:00 pm to 4:00 pm | FREE | Freeland Library, 5495 Harbor Ave, Freeland, WA 98249

Sunday, April 21, 2024

3rd sunday: free guided nature walk on bainbridge (reservation recommended).

FREE | IslandWood, 4450 Blakely Avenue NE, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

Friday, April 26, 2024

Saturday, april 27, 2024, family-friendly reptile lady, april jackson in everett.

2:00 pm to 3:00 pm | FREE | Evergreen Library, 9512 Evergreen Way, Everett, WA 98204

Sunday, April 28, 2024

Wednesday, may 1, 2024, 1st wednesday: pwyc tour at bloedel reserve on bainbridge (reservation required).

The Bloedel Reserve, 7571 NE Dolphin Dr, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

Thursday, May 2, 2024

1st thursday (mar-oct) free admission at seattle japanese garden.

1:00 pm to 5:00 pm | FREE | Seattle Japanese Garden

Friday, May 3, 2024

Saturday, may 4, 2024, cascade pbs ideas festival in seattle.

$25.00-100.00 | Amazon Meeting Center, 2031 7th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121

Free tour 1st Saturday at historic Paramount Theatre in Seattle

10:00 am to 11:30 am | FREE | Paramount Theatre

Sunday, May 5, 2024

Friday, may 10, 2024.

Art Studio Tour on Camano Island

10:00 am to 5:00 pm | FREE | Camano Island, Wa

Saturday, May 11, 2024

Free tour 2nd saturday of historic moore theatre in seattle.

10:00 am to 11:30 am | FREE | Moore Theatre

Free 2nd Saturday open house & guided tour at Georgetown Steam Plant

10:00 am to 2:00 pm | FREE | Georgetown Steam Plant, 6605 13TH Ave S, Seattle, WA  98108

Sunday, May 12, 2024

Friday, may 17, 2024, saturday, may 18, 2024, sunday, may 19, 2024, friday, may 24, 2024, saturday, may 25, 2024, sunday, may 26, 2024, friday, may 31, 2024, saturday, june 1, 2024.

Annual San Juan Island Artists’ Studio Tour (100 mi. NW)

FREE | San Juan Islands, Washington

Sunday, June 2, 2024

Wednesday, june 5, 2024, thursday, june 6, 2024, friday, june 7, 2024, saturday, june 8, 2024, sunday, june 9, 2024, 2nd sunday: local authors reading series in south seattle.

2:00 pm to 4:00 pm | FREE | Columbia Branch Library, 4721 Rainier Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98118

Friday, June 14, 2024

Saturday, june 15, 2024, sunday, june 16, 2024, saturday, june 22, 2024, sunday, june 23, 2024, saturday, june 29, 2024, sunday, june 30, 2024, wednesday, july 3, 2024, thursday, july 4, 2024, saturday, july 6, 2024, sunday, july 7, 2024, saturday, july 13, 2024, sunday, july 14, 2024.

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Free Walking Tour Seattle

Experience the best of seattle and pike place market with a local guide and only pay what you feel, free  seattle walking tour.

Seattle Free Walking Tours began as an idea while the founders backpacked around the world on a 2 year honeymoon, it became real in 2012. The goal: To provide the best most authentic Seattle experiences at a Pay What You Feel price.

We offer two unique adventures: 

Seattle 101 our flagship tour covers big picture Seattle history and visits the sites of its most pivotal events. You can snap the best photos of Downtown, the historic district of Pioneer Square, and the city’s beautiful waterfront. By the end you’ll know about the land's indigenous people, how Seattle started and grew, and what it has become. Seattle 101 is the best first thing to do when you visit the Emerald City.  

Market Experience is our deep dive into Seattle’s famous Pike Place Market . Beautifully vibrant, diverse, so tasty, a bit rough around the edges (in a good way), the market is the soul of Seattle . Expect, history, unique characters, delicious tastings and a well connected guide to lead the way. 

Join us today! Don’t just visit Seattle, Experience Seattle!

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Seattle Farmer\'s Market

What visitors think about Free  Seattle Walking Tour?

Frequently asked questions about the tour

Can both tours be done on the same day, how physically difficult are the tours, what contribution can we make for a tour, how do i sign up for tour, can i still attend if i haven’t signed up or if the tour is sold out, get inspired by the free tour community blog.

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Seattle – cool, creative and full of culture

Seattle boasts a truly wonderful cityscape – a backdrop of rugged mountains and vast green forest by day, and a mesmerizing display of colour, lights & reflections by night, the Emerald city is a futuristic looking metropolis which harbors a beautiful character and charm. Made up of a variety of neighborhoods, each with their own attitude & intrigue, these combine to imbue Seattle with a laid-back, down-to-earth, yet progressive, innovative and creative personality & spirit.

There’s a lot to discover & embrace about Seattle and the best way to get an authentic insight is on a free walking tour with a lovely local guide as recommended by FreeTour.com. Explore the historic Old Town, Pioneer Square, Downtown, The Space Needle, The Gum Wall, Rachel The Pig and the historic Pike Place Market, the vibrant soul of Seattle, where you’ll enjoy free samples of fantastic locally produced delicacies.

And once you’ve gotten to grips with this place and its remarkable history, heritage and culture, there is plenty more to see & do in Seattle – Hit the Art Museum, chill out in the many green spaces & parks, enjoy great coffee, chow down on clam chowder, taste exceptional craft beers, absorb the atmospheric nightlife, pump your fist to live music and maybe even dance with Mary Jane – with all its sights, sounds & aromas Seattle is delightfully infectious and well worth a visit.

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Seattle Free Walking Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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• FREE THINGS TO DO

Free Things to Do in Seattle

At once grungy and gourmet, lush and mod, the Emerald City has revitalized its best attractions while offering plenty for penny-pinchers. Pound the pavement through historic Pioneer Square, lively Pike Place Market, Seattle 's compact downtown, and to its scenic waterfront—reveling in free gems along the way.

Free each first Thursday, the Seattle Art Museum's sleek downtown digs recently expanded in 2008 to make more room for its impressive collection of contemporary and modernist works and Native American, African, Asian, and Australian indigenous art. Seniors can also visit free on the first Friday of the month.

In Volunteer Park on Capitol Hill, the Seattle Asian Art Museum opens its doors free of charge each first Thursday and, for families, on first Saturdays as well. Its collection features thousands of paintings, pottery, sculptures, and textiles from China, Japan, India, Korea, and more.

Explore the Frye Art Museum 's rotating selection of its large collection of 19th and 20th century German, French, and American paintings and sculptures, including a collection of paintings by Munich-based artists acquired by Charles Frye in the late 19th century. Admission is always free, as is parking, and complimentary tours are available Tuesday through Sunday at 1 p.m. and Saturday, Sunday, and Tuesday at 11:30 a.m.

In renowned architect Steven Holl's 36,000-square-foot (3,345-square-meter) building, admire art, craft, and design by regional artists at nearby Bellevue Arts Museum 's free first Fridays, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Seattle Art Museum's waterfront Olympic Sculpture Park is a nine-acre (3.6-hectare) industrial-site-turned-green space. Dotted with contemporary works of art by artists such as Richard Serra, Alexander Calder, and Mark di Suvero, the park is set against a spectacular backdrop of Puget Sound and the Cascade Range with a 2,200-foot (671-meter) pedestrian path that leads to a beach. Open daily, free of charge.

Immerse yourself in the huge sound of the Seattle Symphony 's 26-foot (eight-meter) tall, 4,490-pipe Watjen concert organ in Benaroya Hall at one of the symphony's free recitals, held Mondays at 12:30 p.m. on a bimonthly basis and performed by the symphony's resident organist Joseph Adam. Or, take a public tour of Benaroya Hall every Tuesday and Friday (and following Watjen concert organ recitals) at noon and 1 p.m. In the not-free-but-great-value department, a new initiative to attract more millennials now offers patrons between the ages of 21 and 30 tickets for $25.

Catch a lunchtime concert at City Hall every first and third Thursday. The series' Seattle-area performers range in genre from world music to big bands, folk, and jazz.

In July and August over the noon hour, join the downtown office lunch crowd for free public concerts —from classical to rock and jazz—in area parks and plazas. Buskers also perform at lunchtime at parks throughout the city, including Freeway Park and Pioneer Square.

Peruse Seattle's top art galleries for the month's new exhibits and artists at Pioneer Square's Gallery Walk . Held from noon till 8 p.m. the first Thursday of the month, except January. Start at Main Street and Occidental. Independent artists also display their wares in tents at Occidental Park.

While winding through downtown, take notice of pretty glass art displays that embellish several downtown galleries and buildings, such as the U.S. Bank Building at 5th and Pike, the Sheraton Hotel at 6th and Pike, and Benaroya Hall at 3rd and University.

Attractions

Join the crowd gathered in front of rowdy fishmongers at 100-plus-year-old Pike Place Market . Tucked in every cranny of the market's nine acres (3.6 hectares) are authentic highlights, from Rachel the brass piggy bank—the market’s mascot—to the quirky Gum Wall in Post Alley. Visit on a weekday morning to avoid the masses.

Scour for funky flea market finds at the Fremont Sunday Market with more than 250 vendors from around the region selling fresh flowers, produce, crafts, and street food from raw oysters to pupusas. Held Sundays year-round starting at 10 a.m.

From the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks' (aka the Ballard Locks) public viewing window, cheer for salmon as they climb up the fish ladder and watch pleasure boats pass through the locks.

Roam the 74-acre (30-hectare) Seattle Center , site of the 1962 World's Fair and now home to the city's top attractions, including the Space Needle, Seattle Opera, Seattle Repertory Theatre, Intiman Theatre, Children's Museum, Children's Theater, Fun Forest Amusement Park, Pacific Science Center, and Experience Music Project.

Examine a Blackbird spy plane up-close or board the original Air Force One at one of the world's preeminent flight museums, Seattle's Museum of Flight , free from 5 to 9 p.m. the first Thursday of the month.

Downtown Seattle, while compact enough to wander by foot, is easily traversed by bus as well—especially from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. when all downtown buses are free.

See major attractions in Seattle at about half the price with our partner, CityPass , which includes Traveler's picks for bars, restaurants, shopping, and neighborhoods.

The first Nordstrom's department store opened in downtown Seattle in 1901. During the store's regular business hours, one of their six "personal stylists" can be enlisted for free shopping help.

Snap a quirky photo in front of the 18-foot-tall (5.5-meter), one-eyed stone Freemont troll who lurks beneath the George Washington Memorial Bridge (known by locals as the Aurora Bridge) at N. 36th Street in Fremont. The troll squashes an ill-fated automobile in his left hand.

In historic Pioneer Square, seek natural refuge in the shady courtyard of Waterfall Garden Park (S. Main St. and Second Ave. S.), with a waterfall cascading 22 feet (6.7 meters) over granite boulders into a tranquil Japanese pool below.

Admire the refurbished Paramount Theatre 's ornate décor, restored with painstaking attention to detail and a fresh coat of gold paint. The first Saturday of each month, free 90-minute tours leave from the main entrance at 10 a.m.

Explore the University of Washington with free 90-minute campus tours led by UW undergrads. See Husky Stadium, Gothic buildings, the Drumheller Fountain, and come springtime, cherry trees blooming around campus. You can even sit in on a class.

Since opening in 1952, the Museum of History and Industry has been a treasure trove of Pacific Northwest history, chronicling more than 150 years of Seattle history. First Thursdays are free and have extended hours (10 a.m. to 8 p.m.).

Discover the natural splendor of the Pacific Rim at the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture , free first Thursdays and with extended hours (10 a.m. to 8 p.m.). The museum is considered the Northwest's premier repository of cultural and natural history artifacts, with highlights like a resident spider expert (to curate its collection of 150,000 arachnids) and Northwest Coast totem poles at the entrance.

Channel the frenzy of the 1897 gold rush at Washington's outpost of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Pioneer Square Historic District, where you can learn Seattle's role in the stampede to the Yukon gold fields.

Navigate thousands of Coast Guard memorabilia—from an 1860s lighthouse service clock to the Coast Guard flag used on the first shuttle flight—at the free Coast Guard Museum on Pier 36. Visitors are sometimes welcome on the three icebreakers docked nearby.

Each week, literature-rich Seattle is host to scores of readings at bookshops like The Mountaineers, Elliott Bay Book Co., University Book Store, and the Richard Hugo House; check listings in local publications like The Stranger and the Seattle Weekly .

Amble through Seattle's Chinatown-International District , located east of 5th Avenue and home to a high concentration of Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean, Laotian, and Cambodian Americans living in one dynamic neighborhood.

Celebrate ethnic and folk traditions with arts, crafts, music, food, and performers at the free annual Northwest Folklife Festival held Memorial Day weekend on the grounds of the Seattle Center.

Ride the 35-minute ferry trip (roundtrip fare is $8 for adults; car fares from $27.30) across Puget Sound—keep your eyes peeled for whales along the way—to Bainbridge Island Vineyards and Winery , an indie operation that's the only Seattle-area winery to grow all its own grapes on location. Open Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.

Fifteen miles (24 kilometers) northeast of Seattle, Chateau Ste. Michelle's wine tour teaches about the Columbia Valley grape-growing region and concludes with a wine sampling, free of charge.

Northeast of Seattle in Woodinville, Redhook Brewery's tour includes a brewery walk with information on Redhook's history and processes, 3-4 beer samples, and a souvenir tasting glass for $5.

In Pike Place Market, Vital Tea Leaf offers free tastings of high-end tea in a traditional Chinese-style teahouse.

Take a free self-guided cell phone or docent-led tour of the mod Seattle Central Library , one of only six major works in the U.S. designed by Rem Koolhaas, or download an audio tour and map from the library's website for a self-guided tour. A full calendar of readings by renowned authors, kid story times, and teen programming is available online.

In the heart of the International District, the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience is the only pan-Asian Pacific American museum in the country and the first Smithsonian affiliate in the region, with artifacts, photographs, archives, and oral histories revealing the culture of the Asian Pacific American community. The museum waives its admission fee each first Thursday of the month.

Freeway Park , a five-acre (two-hectare) city park that sits in downtown Seattle over Interstate 5, has great views of downtown buildings, a walking loop, free Wi-Fi, and free music and theater performances in the summer.

The interactive KidsQuest Children's Museum is $1 from 5 to 8 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month in nearby Bellevue's Factoria Mall. Climb the giant indoor tree house to enjoy a tea party, hit the knot board to learn how to tie a square knot, or tinker with tools in the museum's hands-on garage.

The University of Washington Botanic Gardens' Elisabeth C. Miller Library offers free family programs one Saturday a month September through June, geared for children ages three to eight, with stories and activities that celebrate little tykes' green thumbs, from harvest-time apples to May flowers.

Nestled on Magnolia Bluff, Discovery Park , Seattle's largest city park, overlooks Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains with 534 acres (216 hectares) of tidal beaches, open meadows, sea cliffs, forest groves, active sand dunes, thickets, and streams. Check out Native American art and handicrafts at the Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center .

With a prime Capitol Hill locale, climbing the popular water tower at Volunteer Park offers the "best free panoramic view in Seattle," as voted by readers of Seattle Weekly.

Sundays, boat rides are free at the Center for Wooden Boats , a free hands-on museum that explains maritime traditions and aims to preserve the art of handcrafted wooden boats, located on Lake Union just north of downtown.

Explore Washington Park Arboretum 's 230 acres (93 hectares) of 10,000 native plants in this internationally recognized woody plant collection, featuring sorbus, maple, hollies, oaks, conifers, and camellias. Free tours are available every Sunday at 1 p.m. (January-November).

For a quintessential photo op, head to Kerry Park , a small grassy strip on Upper Queen Anne. The views of the Space Needle, downtown Seattle, and Elliott Bay are only rivaled by the sometimes-sightings of Mount Rainier looming above.

• Nat Geo Expeditions

Hit Myrtle Edwards Park 's running and biking trails, which wind 1.25 miles (two kilometers) north of the waterfront with impressive views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the skyline.

One of Seattle's most popular urban parks, Green Lake has two paths for walkers, bicyclers, strollers, and skaters: the 2.8-mile (4.4-kilometer) paved path that circles the lake and a less-crowded, 3.2-mile (2.15-kilometer) unpaved path on the park's perimeter. Or, sunbathe or swim on the two lakefront beaches.

The Northwest Ultimate Association hosts free pick-up games of Ultimate Frisbee at parks around Seattle. Check their online listings for details.

Stop to smell (some of) the 280 rose varieties while strolling the grass pathways at the Woodland Park Zoo's Rose Garden , free of charge since opening in 1924. Seattle's moderate climate boasts one of the world's finest rose-growing habitats and is one of 24 All-America Rose Selections Test Gardens in the country. Gardeners: Note the free rose-pruning demonstration on the last Sunday in February.

A 45-minute drive southeast from Seattle, Rattlesnake Ridge 's four-mile (6.4-kilometer), moderate-level trail affords hikers sweeping views.

Founded in 1927 by a Japanese immigrant, 20-acre (eight-hectare) Kubota Garden has since achieved landmark status and continues as a tranquil retreat in Rainier Beach.

Theater/Dance

Theater companies across the region celebrate the local theater scene with backstage tours, free kids workshops, and more than 50 free performances during Seattle's annual " Arts Crush , " held each October.

Catch lunchtime preview seminars of Pacific Northwest Ballet performances some Tuesdays at the Central Seattle Public Library.

Wooden O Theatre Productions , a free Shakespeare company, performs modern takes on classics outdoors at various parks around Seattle during the summer.

5th Avenue Theatre 's producing artistic director hosts free, educational Spotlight Nights (every couple of months) featuring guest speakers and performers who intertwine song, dance, interviews, video clips, and more at these popular behind-the-scenes previews of upcoming shows.

For More Information

Seattle's Convention and Visitors Bureau

City of Seattle

Seattle's Child Calendar of Events

The Seattle Times

Seattle Maps

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Seattle Free Walking Tours

Review Highlights

“ Jake was incredibly knowledgeable about fun things to do and (importantly) good places to eat in the city. ” in 181 reviews

“ My wife did the Pikes place tour last year and as she really enjoyed it we booked the Seattle 101 tour together. ” in 69 reviews

“ Market 101 is an Awesome tour, Joe our guide was very knowledgeable and made the tour fun and interesting. ” in 55 reviews

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Western Ave

Seattle, WA 98101

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Seattle's only "Pay what YOU Feel" tours! Join us for one or all of our distinct tours. It's the best way to see Seattle! An entertaining guide leads guests on a whirlwind adventure of quintessential Seattle! Visitors sample their way through the city, learn its history, and meet directly with lively locals. Join us today! *Tours do not operate in dangerous or severe weather. Tours may also be canceled in rare emergency situations. Check the tour calendar for updated information. …

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That's a loaded question. It really depends on how far you want to walk. The average cost at most of the lots runs $4.00 per hour, but there are early bird daily rates, where you'd pay $15 per day, one of those is just a short walk away from the… more

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356 reviews

I've done the paid yours (Seattle Underground) and thought I'd give this one a try with my whole family. We had a tour guide with blue hair (can't remember his name). It started off good with some info about the area and as we walked to the market it moved to recommendations on restaurants which felt a bit like a walking yelp review. I was expecting a lot of history but instead it turned into a few tidbits of local lore with a lot of jokes about how white people steal things and how the Indians were victimized.l by white people who just wanted to take their land and possessions. As a white guy himself he may have felt guilty but it was clear he made the some in the tour uncomfortable with his continued racist jokes. The tour lasted 90+ minutes and was actually a bit too long given the little historical information we received. We gave him a tip for his effort, but I can't recommend him or the tour as a good use of your time. I do recommend the other paid tours - there's more history shared and no jokes about any races of people so far more of an inclusive experience.

This is a late review, but I had to share my experience. My husband and I traveled for the first time to Seattle on September 14. After searching on the web, we found excellent recommendations about these tours. "Seattle 101" and "The Market Experience", both are highly recommended. We took both tours with Shawn and Joe (on different days). Both are very experienced, dynamic and knowledgable. Those tours helped us with our following days in Seattle. Keep up the good work guys!

See all photos from Cristina C. for Seattle Free Walking Tours

Great job to Shawn!!! I went on both tours they offered: Seattle 101 and the Market Experience. Shawn was a great tour guide and interacted well with all guests. He showed us so many things and gave geat retelling of Seattle history. Not only did we get his fantastic delivery, we also got to meet other people from around the globe. If you are wondering if it's worth your time and tip money, it is. Definitely check out Seattle Free Walking Tours. It will enrich your Seattle experience immensely.

What a great experience! This "Seattle 101" tour was the highlight of the trip for me. Our guide, Joe, was knowledgeable, courteous and extremely funny! I was amazed by all the facts he told us - made us feel real connection with the city. He had genuine answers to our questions and was very organized. I'd say that this tour is essential for anyone visiting Seattle for the first time. Highly recommended. And yes, you can pay what whatever you'd like for the tour. We ended up paying way more than expected... it was well deserved!

We did the Market Tour and the Seattle 101 Tour. Both were super fun, and our tour guide Joe was awesome. Thanks for a great intro to Seattle!

Free walking tours are not very common in the US, with the exception of some of the larger cities. Why should you take a tour: + The name says it all, they are free. Upfront you will hear about a 2 minute explanation of the concept. That being said, at the end, it is customary to pay what you feel your time and experience was worth without pressure. + They offer the Market Experience (Pike's Place Market) and a Seattle 101, which can be done on the same day. + The guides are local and full of knowledge, and they love what they do. Joe was awesome in providing history, side commentary, and tips on where to go. +The tours are a great way to get your feet wet if you are afraid to explore on your own or just to get an idea of places to further explore on your own. Tips: ***Book early, as tours can be sold out or wait listed. The Market Experience is limited to 16 people. ***Meeting point for the tours is at Victor Steinbrueck Park, between the two totem poles. ***Tours do operate in the rain, because if they didn't they would operate for ~ two thirds of the year. It rains a lot in Seattle, so plan accordingly.

Free Walking Tour is a MUST DO when visiting Seattle. Last Wednesday, my husband and I did the market experience tour at 9:30 am and the Seattle 101 downtown tour at 11 am (definitely nice to be able to do both tours on the same day). Shawn was our tour guide for both and we found him to be very informative and friendly. He added some humor and interesting facts about Seattle. For the market tour, we walked through the famous Pike Place Market, with a walk through post alley (an neglected part of the market), the famous gum wall and a few other vendors along the way for some yummy food samples that included smoked salmon, dried fruit and fresh fruit. Being on this tour, also were given discounts at the vendors who provided samples of their food (definitely a plus!). For the downtown tour, there is quite a bit of walking so be sure to bring snacks and wear a good pair of walking shoes. Also bring a hat to shade your face and even a pair of sunglasses if you wish. Shawn brought our group to various places that includes the Seattle Art Museum (to see the Man Of Work statue (the 2nd largest in the world), Pioneer Square and the sinking ship parking structure, above the underground city and the waterfront. By the way, I had asked Shawn if I would have been allowed to bring my little dog on this tour. He said he thought it would be fine. But that I would probably have to be in the back so that no one accidentally steps on my dog, etc. If I had known ahead of time, I would have brought my little girl dog. But figured I would let future tour guests know. Being that this tour is free, you are free to pay whatever you want. You are also welcomed to just leave after the tour is over if you do not wish to pay. I love that Shawn did not pressure us or anyone to pay anything, on both tours. Making a reservation on line is really easy. I was even sent a reminder email a few days before as well. I would highly recommend making a reservation for both tours, especially at the start of your vacation so that you can get some tips and recommendations from your tour guide on what else to see in Seattle during the remainder of your stay.

Shawn, Guide For Market Experience Tour

Shawn, guide for Market Experience Tour (part of tour does visit the famous Gum Wall)

This tour is totally worth its time, because our guide, Joe is awesome. He delivers interesting tidbits about the history and operations of the market with humor and passion. The speech totally doesn't feel scripted, and his knowledge shows when he answers our question with ease. Hopefully you will schedule more than the tour time for the market, as the tour is a great introduction and afterwards you can explore in depth on your own. As a matter of fact, we ended up going to the market three times during our stay. The tour is free but do go online to reserve your spot.

Loved loved loved ! Very good job! This was my second time in Seattle but first time taking this tour. .our tour guy was so much fun . My gosh I forgot his name , he had purple hair though . Funny, informative and very friendly guy . Our group had a great time and we learned so much . You must try !

AWE-SOME! My friend and I took part in one of the Seattle Free Walking Tour sessions on a Saturday afternoon and we loved it! For this particular walking tour, it was a Seattle True Crimes talk/tour, and I still can't believe how much I learned from it. We met our tour guide, Chris at the meeting location, holding a flag, indicating it's the Seattle Free Walking Tour group - which is especially helpful because there are other walking tours in the Pioneer Square area at the same time. After checking us in - he started to tell us the first crime story, and we gradually walk around the Pioneer Square area, where he points to landmarks and buildings as part of the true stories. I always forget how historic Pioneer Square is, but I guess that's what happens when you're from the area and take advantage of where you live. But just finding out about the different stories made me appreciate how enriched Seattle is with its history and beginnings. The walking tour isn't strenuous at all, and definitely isn't a long walk. In fact, as all of us in our small group were listening and walking around, learning about the different stories - the time went by so fast that I couldn't believe an hour had already passed by the time the tour ended! That's how interesting and fun it was! Though the walking tour is free - tips are accepted. Chris did an awesome job, story-telling and answering any questions we had about the different crimes or buildings in Pioneer Square. Especially if you have visitors - they will love learning about Seattle through this walking tour. But even as a local, I loved the tour and will now be on the lookout for others tours in the near future. THANK YOU, CHRIS!!!

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The Perfect Self-Guided Walking Tour of Seattle

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Seattle, Washington. The heart of the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is a city renowned for grunge music, Starbucks Coffee, and rain. With an abundance of awesome sights, from the (kinda icky) Gum Wall at Pike Place Market to the towering Seattle Space Needle, the best way to admire all of these iconic landmarks is on a self-guided walking tour of Seattle !

As I was born and raised in Vancouver, I’ve frequently embarked on a weekend trip to Seattle. And in all my time there, I’ve never gotten bored of a few key areas: the Pike Place Historic District, Seattle Center, Pier 57… and with all these spots being within easy walking distance, the best way to visit them is by foot.

Needless to say, you’ll be visiting all of these top Seattle spots on this walking tour . So without further ado, let’s begin: this is my self-guided Seattle walking tour.

Before we dive into all the stops on our walking tour of Seattle, remember that you can make whatever changes and modifications you’d like. That’s the best thing about self-guided walking tours ; you have the ultimate freedom to decide where to go!

With that being said, according to Google Maps, this Seattle walking tour covers 1.9 miles (3.06 km) and will take 40 minutes to complete. However, it doesn’t include all the time (and steps) you’ll spend browsing around. So, I recommend taking a full day out of your itinerary to complete the tour.

Now, once again, let’s begin!

First, let’s start our free walking tour of Seattle at Pier 57.

Home of the Seattle Great Wheel and Miner’s Landing , Pier 57 is the perfect place to start our walking tour. Filled with unique retails shops, stunning ocean views, various family entertainment, and several popular restaurants including The Crab Pot and The Fisherman’s Restaurant, Pier 57 is a vibrant, fun-filled wonderland perfect for those traveling with family and friends.

Here are the three best things to do at Pier 57 in Seattle:

• The Seattle Great Wheel : Offering panoramic views overlooking Elliot Bay, the Seattle Great Wheel is a relatively new yet iconic Seattle landmark. Adult tickets cost $15, and it’s typically open from 11 am to 10 pm.
• Miner’s Landing Pier 57 : Housing the most popular restaurants in addition to Wings Over Washington, Salish Sea Tours, and the Carousel, Miner’s Landing is filled with entertainment (perfect for kids!).
• Seattle Aquarium : For those interested in the diverse sea life of the Puget Sound, the Seattle Aquarium is the best educational resource . Adult tickets cost anywhere from $24.95 to $34.95 (depending on the day you’re visiting), and the aquarium is open from 9:30 am to 6 pm.

• Pier 57 Address : 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101, United States

Next, walk along the waterfront to Pier 62. The first completed section of Waterfront Park, Pier 62 offers breathtaking views of the Puget Sound, as well as some delightful art installations and a floating dock. Admire the incredible ocean scenery before heading to our next stop: Pike Place!

• Address : 1951 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
• Time to Get Here : It’ll take 5 minutes to walk from Miner’s Landing Pier 57 to Pier 62.
• Hours : 6 am to 10 pm, open daily.
• Website : https://waterfrontparkseattle.org/pier-62/

Planning to visit the Canadian Rockies? If so, check out my 7-day Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary!

Pike Place Market

Next, it’s time to explore Pike Place Market. One of the most popular Seattle tourist attractions (and an essential stop on all walking tours of Seattle), Pike Place Public Market is my absolute favorite district in Seattle.

Historic and vibrant, Pike Place is filled with life. First opened in 1907, Pike Place remains one of the oldest farmer’s markets in the USA . From comic book stores, antique dealers, fresh fish and produce, artisan crafts, and more, Pike Place Market offers a plethora of goods.

While visiting Pike Place, don’t forget to check out these key sights:

• The Gum Wall : While I personally find it a bit gross, Seattle’s Gum Wall is a prominent local landmark worth checking out. On the side of the Post Alley’s Market Theater, it’s one of the most popular Seattle photo spots!

• Rachel the Pig : Located under the iconic red Public Market Center sign, Rachel the Piggy Bank is a bronze sculpture based on the 1985 Island County Fair prize-winning 770-pound pig. Here, you can take some photos and donate some coins to help support Pike Place Market.
• The Original Starbucks : While the Starbucks located in Pike Place Market is commonly referred to as the Original Starbucks, it is actually the second store that opened. Nevertheless, as the first Starbucks no longer exists, the Starbucks located in Pike Place is the closest we can get to the original. Drop by for some souvenirs and great photo ops!
• Beecher’s Handmade Cheese : While I’m not a huge cheese enthusiast, I still adored having some of Beecher’s macaroni and cheese. Stop by to try some handmade artisan cheese!

With so many sights to see in Pike Place Market, don’t rush this part of our walking tour of Seattle. Take your time and explore the shops and restaurants, before heading to our next stop!

• Address : 85 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
• Time to Get Here : It’ll take 7 minutes to walk from Pier 62 to the Pike Place Public Market.
• Hours : Most businesses are open from 9 am to 5 pm.
• Website : http://pikeplacemarket.org/

Victor Steinbrueck Park

Next, walk from Pike Place Market to Victor Steinbrueck Park. A small but charming park offering pleasant ocean views, it is worth visiting en route to our next destination. However, there are occasionally some sketchy characters hanging around, so be aware and stay safe!

• Address : 2001 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, United States
• Time to Get Here : It’ll take 3 minutes to walk from Pike Place to Victor Steinbrueck Park.

Olympic Sculpture Park

From Victor Steinbrueck Park, walk for 14 minutes to Olympic Sculpture Park. Spanning nine acres and associated with the Seattle Art Museum, this award-winning park is a great place to relax, offering clean amenities, enchanting views, and interesting sculptures. And with no entrance fee, it is one of the best cheap things to do in Seattle.

• Address : 2901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, United States
• Time to Get Here : It’ll take 14 minutes to walk from Victor Steinbrueck Park to Olympic Sculpture Park.
• Cost : Free
• Website : https://www.seattleartmuseum.org/visit/olympic-sculpture-park

Seattle Center

Finally, the last stop on our walking tour of Seattle is Seattle Center, which includes four key museums and sites: the Seattle Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of Pop Culture, and the Pacific Science Center.

While this free walking tour of Seattle is officially over, you can easily spend hours exploring the museums around Seattle Center, especially since they all offer something different and unique. So, make sure you have enough time!

• Address : 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
• Time to Get Here : It’ll take 8 minutes to walk from Olympic Sculpture Park to Seattle Center.
• Website : http://www.seattlecenter.com/

The Space Needle

One of the most popular and exalted tourist attractions in Seattle, the Space Needle was built for the 1962 World’s Fair and stands at 605 feet (184 m) tall. While tickets aren’t cheap, there’s no better place to admire the breathtaking panoramic views of Seattle!

• Address : 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
• Cost : General admission tickets for adults costs $35 (but you can buy a combined ticket with Chihuly Garden and Glass for $57!).
• Hours : Their core hours are from 12 pm to 5 pm, but additional hours will be added 2-4 weeks in advance.
• Website : https://www.spaceneedle.com/

Chihuly Garden and Glass

One of the coolest art galleries I’ve ever visited, the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum showcases the fantastic glass blowing sculptures and art pieces of Dale Chihuly, a celebrated artist from Tacoma, Washington.

With eight galleries, three Drawing Walls, and the Glasshouse and Garden offering fabulous views of the Seattle Space Needle, you won’t be bored at Chihuly Garden and Glass!

• Cost : General admission tickets for adults cost $32 (but you can buy a combined ticket with the Space Needle for $57!).
• Hours : 9 am to 6 pm from Sunday to Thursday, and 9 am to 7 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Website : https://www.chihulygardenandglass.com/

The Museum of Pop Culture

If you’re a music or film enthusiast, you have to visit the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) on your Seattle free walking tour. A nonprofit museum focused on contemporary popular culture, they offer exhibits on the Seattle Sound (with a focus on Nirvana and Pearl Jam), science fiction, and horror films.

• Address : 325 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
• Cost : Adult tickets cost anywhere from $26.75 to $34.50 (depending on the day you’re visiting).
• Hours : 10 am to 6 pm from Monday to Friday, and 9 am to 6 pm on the weekend.
• Website : https://www.mopop.org/

The Pacific Science Center

A nonprofit museum perfect for those traveling with young children, the Pacific Science Center offers fascinating educational experiences and exhibits focused on science and discovery.

• Address : 200 2nd Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
• Hours : Temporarily closed
• Website : https://www.pacificsciencecenter.org/

Thinking of visiting New Orleans, Louisiana? If so, check out my 3-day New Orleans itinerary , for ideas on where to go and what to see!

Other Fabulous Things to Do in Seattle

Now that we’ve finished our walking tour , you’re probably looking for an extra couple things to do in Seattle. So, here is my list of 10 additional awesome places to visit:

• Kerry Park : Seattle’s best photo spot, Kerry Park is located on Queen Anne Hill and offers breathtaking views of the Seattle skyline, Elliot Bay, and Mount Rainier. It is definitely one of the most romantic things to do in Seattle!

• Seattle Art Museum : Located near Pike Place, the Seattle Art Museum offers a wide variety of gorgeous art pieces completed by artists from around the globe.
• South Lake Union : A scenic lake located in central Seattle, South Lake Union is the perfect place to relax and people-watch. It also offers some great Seattle outdoor activities, with both paddle board and kayak rentals!
• Gas Works Park : Located on the north shore of Lake Union, Gas Works Park is the former site of a Seattle Gas Light Company gasification plant. With fascinating remains and delightful views, this unique park is one of the best in Seattle.

• Pioneer Square : A rustic and charming neighborhood in the heart of old Seattle, Pioneer Square is a delightful historic area with cute boutiques, delicious restaurants, and striking murals.
• The Smith Tower : Located in Pioneer Square, the Smith Tower, built in 1914, is Seattle’s oldest skyscraper. With charming architecture and stunning views from the observatory and bar, the Smith Tower is one of the best things to do at night in Seattle.

• Chinatown-International District : The epicenter of Seattle’s Asian-American community, the Chinatown-International District can be split into three sections: Chinatown, Japantown, and Little Saigon. Regardless of the area you’re exploring, the Chinatown-International district will offer the best Asian cuisine in Seattle!
• The Museum of Flight : The world’s largest nonprofit air and space museum, the Museum of Flight is a fascinating spot that will enthuse all flight enthusiasts, holding both the original Boeing Aircraft factory and a NASA space shuttle trainer!

• Seward Park : Offering some of the best Seattle walking trails, Seward Park holds 300 acres of enchanting forests, lovely beaches, and a delightful native plant garden.
• Day Trips from Seattle : From Mount Rainier, Olympic National Park, Snoqualmie Falls, and Mount Saint Helens, there are numerous incredible day trips from Seattle; I’ve even written an article about it! Click here to read my article on the most amazing day trips from Seattle .

Or, if you’re looking for a Seattle day trip that takes you out of the US and into Canada , check out my articles on Vancouver and the Gulf Islands:

• 18 Spectacular Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• The Ultimate Self-Guided Vancouver Walking Tour
• The 15 Best Hikes in Vancouver
• 22 Incredible Hikes near Vancouver
• 6 Epic Whistler Hikes
• 11 Fabulous Things to Do in Salt Spring Island

The Best Time to Visit Seattle

To avoid Seattle’s infamous rain, one of the best times to visit Seattle is in the summer, from June to August. With average high temperatures ranging from 71°F to 79°F (22°C-26°C), the weather is warm and sunny.

However, as this is Seattle’s high season, the crowds are consequently bigger and accommodations tend to cost more (so it’s not the best time for budget travelers ).

In my opinion, the best time to visit Seattle is in the shoulder season (spring and fall), with either September or October being the best month to visit Seattle. It’s also a great time to go on some walking tours in Seattle, as the weather isn’t too hot!

And That’s It for our Walking Tour of Seattle!

I hope you enjoyed reading this article, and I hope you’ll love this walking tour of Seattle. Remember, as this is a self-guided walking tour , you have the final say in where you go and what you do. Best of luck, and happy travels.

Thanks for reading the article! If you have any questions, feel free to comment down below, and if you want to see more travel and hike-related content, make sure to check out my other articles.

Photos by Mia and Pixabay.

Planning a Oahu vacation, and wondering what to do? If so, click here for my list of the best hikes in Oahu , and click here for the best Oahu waterfalls .

About to embark on a trip? Here are some helpful articles to make your trip as awesome and stress-free as possible:

• How to Travel Without Breaking the Bank
• 15 Things to Do Before a Trip
• How to Start Hiking: 15 Beginner Hiking Tips
• 15 Incredible Day Trips in Seattle

And here are some additional helpful links:

• Click here for my walking tours
• Click here for my hiking guides
• Click here for more posts on North America
• Click here for more posts on destinations in the US
• Click here for more resources

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Mia is the founder of Walk a While with Me, a travel blog dedicated to sharing the best self-guided walking tours, travel itineraries, and hikes for destinations around the world. A keen traveler, she has visited more than 20 countries in the past six years. She is excited for you to follow along on her adventures!

One Comment

Thanks for the awesome walking guide! We followed your advice and ideas from our cruise ship port and through city center! Great fun facts and sites! Thank you!

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