Seattle

When you think of Seattle, I’m assuming that you immediately think Space Needle ($37.50) and Starbucks HQ. Well, you’re not wrong, but those are outrageously expensive and not very impressive. Here are some fun, cheap (and free) things to do in Seattle.

PARKING Park in a parking garage by the shopping center. Sometimes its free- and if not, it’s not as expensive. NOTE: Most places offer free parking on Sundays.

PIKE PLACE MARKET Vendors sell fresh cut bouquets (sometimes with veggies!), Paintings, lavender products, home-made crafts and snacks. When you reach the corner with fresh seafood- they’ll entertain you by throwing fish to each other while singing. Inside, you can find international craft stores as well as ‘hippie shops.’

FOOD Right across from Pike’s you’ll probably see a line of 10+ people at a restaurant called “Beecher’s Handmade Cheese.” Your Panera-sized snack will probably cost you $8, but it is TOTALLY worth it. You can watch them make the cheese while you stand in line (and casually take 5+ samples, like me.) https://www.beechershandmadecheese.com/

FOOD Piroshky Piroshky is another great hidden spot right down from Pikes. $5 meat/desert/cheese/veggie/cream filled baked goods. They are AMAZING and have like 30 options. https://www.piroshkybakery.com/menu.php

SEATTLE GUM WALL Add your own and take a picture for the gram- if that’s your thing!

SEATTLE ART MUSEUM Believe it or not, this is FREE on some days. Check the calendar to take advantage! If they have a special expedition, the entrance fee is a donation of your choice. Check the calendar to see what gallery will be there when you are! http://seattleartmuseum.org/visit/

OLYMPIC SCULPTURE PARK This is also Free! It’s outdoors, 9 acres and is maintained by the Art Museum.

MY FAVORITE: If you have the time and means, take a 30 minute drive to Woodinville, AKA Wine country. This cute little town has over 15 wineries! Some are also walking distance from each other. See a list below and visit https://www.visitwoodinville.org/sip/wineries/ for more information!