This post may contain affiliate links where we earn from qualifying purchases from referring you to our favorite products and brands. As an amazon associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Find out more in our disclosure.
Seattle has a reputation for being one of the most expensive cities on the West Coast of the United States. However, if you look a little deeper, you’ll find a city packed with family-friendly activities that are both fun and affordable. Whether you’re a local or visiting for a long weekend, here’s a guide to some of the best budget-friendly experiences that Seattle has to offer.
While my husband and I had both been to Seattle multiple times, including some quick trips with kids, this was our first big trip to really explore the city with kids. With 5 kids ranging from 7-17, we had a wide variety of interests, and with a large family, we knew that we could only see and do a lot if we were careful with where we spent our money. After piecing together our own personal experience, talking to local friends, and researching like crazy, we discovered some pretty spectacular things to do in Seattle for cheap with kids.
A trip to Seattle combines perfectly with a trip to Mount Rainier, Olympic National Park, or a road trip up the Pacific Coast.
Where to Stay in Seattle with Kids
While everyone will tell you to stay in downtown Seattle, prices downtown can get incredibly expensive, FAST! Most hotels we looked at downtown were more than double the price of staying out of town, and charged $45-60/day for parking. On this trip, we stayed at a hotel farther out of the city, and took the metro in every day. We payed about ⅓ of the price of staying downtown, had free parking, and walked to the metro in the mornings to go into the city (a total of $11 for my husband and I and all of the kids rode free). While downtown is more convenient, if you’re visiting Seattle on a budget, this is one of the best ways to stretch your dollars farther. Here are some affordable hotels near public transportation
The Gum Wall
The Gum Wall in Post Alley near Pike Place Market is a quirky Seattle landmark that kids find both fascinating and grossly entertaining. My kids were all simultaneously gagging, but couldn’t take their eyes off all of the gum. Covered in colorful, chewed gum, it’s a unique backdrop for fun photos. Actually, it more than just a backdrop, since it covers an entire alley.
Of course, make sure to bring some gum to add to the collection. We didn’t prepare our kids for what they were going to see and their reactions were hilarious when mom walked around the corner, pulled a wad of gum out of my mouth, and stuck it on the side of the wall (before they realized that the entire wall was covered in gum). It’s a quick stop that adds a splash of weird to your Seattle adventure, and it’s completely free!
Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is a must-visit with kids, offering a lively atmosphere full of street performers, fresh produce, and quirky shops. Watch the famous fishmongers throw fish, but don’t stop there. Pikes Place Market is PACKED with so many shops and stalls to entertain the kids. Truthfully, we only planned to come for an hour, but after nearly 3 hours, we finally pulled the kids away. It was such a hit with all ages. Here are some of our kids favorites:
The life-sized bronze piggy bank that supports local social services.
Smelling all of the flower bouquets.
Getting ALL the fresh fruit samples.
Trying different types of chocolate covered cherries at Chukkars cherries.
Trying a variety of honey stick flavors (only $0.50 each).
Getting a view of the harbor.
Watching the nonstop magic show at the Pikes Place Magic Shop. It was incredible!
Browsing all of the hilarious books at Lionheart Bookstore. The owners are charming and so welcoming to kids.
Beecher’s Cheese Factory
Located within Pike Place Market, Beecher’s Cheese Factory lets you watch cheese being made right before your eyes. Our kids were fascinated by the process, and you can sample some delicious free cheese. Sampling really wasn’t enough for our kids, so we bought a sampler with a variety of flavored cheese curds while the kids stared in mezmoration at the cheese being made in front of them. If you want to indulge a bit, their famous mac and cheese is a must-try. It’s a tasty and educational stop that won’t break the bank.
Take a Ferry Ride to Bainbridge Island
A ferry ride to Bainbridge Island offers stunning views of Seattle’s skyline and the surrounding waters. Once on the island, you can explore the charming town, visit local parks, or have a picnic. If you’re looking for a slower pace than most of SEattle offers, a quick ferry ride here is just the thing. The ferry ride is 30 minutes each way, but ferries depart about hourly each way, so make sure to check the schedule carefully. Adult tickets are $9.85 each way and kids 18 and under are free, so if you’re taking the whole family, this can be very affordable.
Take a Ride on the Monorail
When we travel to bigger cities, we almost always rely on public transportation. Parking can be a major pain in Seattle (especially in a non-compact family sized car), so we used the metro and buses. The kids favorite by far, was the Seattle Monorail. For a small fare, the Seattle Monorail provides a quick and scenic ride from Seattle Center to downtown. There is only one stop at each end, but you’ll get an elevated view, with panoramic windows of all of downtown. It was faster than a bus, and much more fun. The grand finale of driving through the Museum of Pop Culture was a major highlight! Adult tickets are $3.50, kid tickets are $1.75, or free if the child has an ORCA card ($3 at the metro stations, though this is the only place you really need it).
Artists at Play Playground
As soon as you get off the monorail, you’ll see the huge climbing structure and slides at the Artists at Play Playground. Our kids LOVE climbing structures and this was one of the best that we’ve ever found. While this playground was artistically designed, the kids loved that there were lots of different places for them to climb and play, rather than just up! It’s free and provides a great break from sightseeing while letting kids unleash their creativity and energy.
Take a Selfie with the Space Needle
No visit to Seattle is complete without a selfie with the iconic Space Needle. You don’t need to go up the Needle to get a great shot – the area all around the Seattle Center offers plenty of spots for perfect photos. Capture this quintessential Seattle experience and then explore the surrounding Seattle Center area.
Visit the Pacific Science Center
The Pacific Science Center is a fun and interactive science museum. While it’s typically pretty expensive, if you are visiting and have a pass at another museum at home, you may be able to get in for FREE! That’s right, if you have a pass at another ASTC museum, you simply have to show proof of membership and you can get in to PacSci for FREE! This saved our family well over $100!
When you go in, make sure to check out the best exhibits – here were our favorites:
Dinosaurs
Phyics in Life (totally interactive)
Human Body
Maker Space (the kids could have spend 2+ hours here alone).
Butterfly Garden
Play at the International Fountain
The International Fountain at Seattle Center is a hit with kids, especially on a hot day. The fountain’s water jets are synchronized to music, creating a fun and cooling play area. Pack a change of clothes and let the kids splash around; it’s a refreshing and free activity that they’ll love.
Bill and Melinda Gates Discovery Center
The Bill and Melinda Gates Discovery Center is an inspiring and educational destination for families. Located near Seattle Center, it offers interactive exhibits that highlight global health, development, and education initiatives that the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation supports. Kids can engage with hands-on displays and learn about how they can make a difference in the world. Admission is free, making it a great, cost-effective way to spend a few hours. While walk ins are welcome, they would like you to register in advance, so they can track anticipated visitors.
The Center for Wooden Boats
The Center for Wooden Boats at Lake Union Park is a fun stop that focused on rowing, sailing, and row boats. After watching ‘The Boys in the Boat’ our older kids were so excited to come and visit here. They all learned a lot and loved going out to the water to look at all of the boats. Boat rentals are available, or you can sign up in advance for a free peapod paddleboat experience. They also have free sailing on Sundays where families can go sailing for free, which is an incredible opportunity.
Swimming at Goose Beach
For a sunny day, head to Goose Beach at Lake Union. This sandy beach is just across the bridge from the Center for Wooden Boats and is ideal for swimming, paddling, and picnicking. Wild blackberries grow along the banks of the river for the perfect late summer treat. It’s a wonderful place to relax and let the kids burn off some energy without spending a dime.
Stroll the Olympic Sculpture Park
If you need some relaxed outdoor time without the high energy of a playground, head to The Olympic Sculpture Park. Here you’ll find a free, outdoor art experience with stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. It’s a fantastic place for a picnic and to meander through the park looking at the large art sculptures. This is best for older kids and teens.
Explore Discovery Park
Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest green space, offering miles of trails, beaches, and scenic viewpoints. It’s perfect for a family hike, bike ride, beachcombing, and you might even spot the occasional wildlife. The park’s natural beauty and open spaces provide a wonderful backdrop for an outdoor adventure that’s completely free. After all of the hustle and bustle of Seattle, this is a welcome reprieve that’s still right in the city. Discovery Park is northwest of downtown Seattle, and is most easily reached by car, not public transportation.
Affordable Places to Eat with Kids in Seattle
Finding affordable and fun places to eat with kids on vacation is one of my least favorite parts of travel planning. It overwhelms me all the time. To help make your meal planning less stressful than mine, I’ve put together a few options to help you.
Dick’s Drive-In
A Seattle classic, Dick’s Drive-In is known for its simple, delicious, and budget-friendly burgers, fries, and shakes. The no-frills menu and quick service make it a perfect spot for a family meal on the go.
Beecher’s Handmade Cheese
Located in Pike Place Market, Beecher’s is known for its delicious mac and cheese made with their famous handmade cheese. It’s not super budget friendly, but it’s delicious and the whole family will love it. As a bonus, you can sit and watch the cheese being made while you eat.
Pikes Place Chowder
If you love good clam chowder, this is the place to go. The lines get super long around lunchtime (and they close late afternoon), so plan on getting there outside of traditional lunch time to avoid the crowds.
Three Girls Bakery
Whether you’re looking for something for breakfast or lunch, the sandwiches and baked goods at Three Girls Bakery are hard to beat. The lines get long at lunch, but that’s a testament to how delicious it is.
Ivar’s Fish Bar
If you want to introduce your kids to some classic Seattle seafood, head to Ivar’s fish bar. Their fish and chips are pretty affordable, and we think they make a great take away meal for a picnic at the park.
Seattle is a city brimming with opportunities for family fun without breaking the bank, so plan on having plenty of fun, without emptying out your wallet. From exploring quirky landmarks like the Gum Wall and Pike Place Market to enjoying outdoor adventures at Discovery Park, there are countless ways to create lasting memories with your kids. Whether you’re snapping selfies with the Space Needle or sailing at the Center for Wooden Boats, Seattle ensures an affordable adventure around every corner. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the best free and cheap activities Seattle has to offer!
