Top Free Things to Do in Seattle Between World Cup Matches
Coming to Seattle for the 2026 World Cup? Between the roar of the crowd at Lumen Field and the global energy buzzing through the city, you’ll want a breather—and you don’t have to spend a dime to have a good time here.
Whether you’re on a budget or just looking to soak up some local flavor between games, here are the best totally free things to do in Seattle that are actually worth your time.
🌲 1. Walk Through Discovery Park
Location: Magnolia
Seattle’s largest green space feels like a secret coastal escape. You’ll find wooded trails, sweeping bluff views, and a lighthouse overlooking Puget Sound. It’s quiet, beautiful, and shockingly close to the city.
Pro tip: Hike the Loop Trail or take the South Beach Trail for sunset views of the Olympic Mountains.
🧱 2. Explore Pike Place Market (Yes, It’s Free)
Location: Downtown
Touristy? Absolutely. But still magical. Watch fish fly, wander through weird little shops, catch street musicians, and visit the world’s oldest Starbucks (if that’s your thing).
Free fun:
Gum Wall (gross, but iconic)
Watch buskers by the pig statue
People-watch from the upper levels
🪞 3. Kerry Park Viewpoint
Location: Queen Anne
This tiny park offers the postcard view of Seattle—skyline, Space Needle, Mount Rainier, all in one frame. It’s small but mighty. Great for a quick stop or a sunset photo.
Warning: Parking is tight. Walk up if you can.
🎨 4. Wander Through Olympic Sculpture Park
Location: Waterfront (near Belltown)
Modern art meets waterfront views. This open-air park is run by the Seattle Art Museum and is completely free to the public. It’s chill, scenic, and often full of locals jogging, sketching, or just vibing.
🦐 5. Check Out the Ballard Locks and Fish Ladder
Location: Ballard
See massive boats move between fresh and salt water via the historic Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. You can also watch salmon migrating (especially June–September) via the fish ladder.
Bonus: Cross the bridge to explore Carl S. English Botanical Garden—also free.
🧋 6. Stroll Through the International District
Location: South of Downtown
Home to Seattle’s AAPI communities, this neighborhood is packed with culture and color. Walk past vibrant murals, historic buildings, and smell incredible food from every corner of Asia.
Free stops:
Hing Hay Park
Uwajimaya grocery aisles
Historic Chinatown Gate
📚 7. Visit Seattle Central Library
Location: Downtown
Designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, this futuristic glass building is a design marvel. Ride the elevator to the top floor and walk the bright red corridors, then head down the winding book spiral.
Pro tip: Great rainy-day spot. Also has free Wi-Fi and places to chill.
🎶 8. Catch Live Music at Westlake or Pike Street (Buskers)
Location: Downtown / Capitol Hill
Seattle’s buskers aren’t your average subway musicians—many are local legends. From saxophone players to folk duos to full-on breakdance crews, you can catch impressive performances for free nearly every day.
🚶 9. Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour
Pick a neighborhood and just wander. Some favorites:
Fremont: Art, trolls, and weirdness
Capitol Hill: Murals, LGBTQ+ history, indie shops
Ballard: Nordic heritage, breweries, old-school charm
Use a free walking tour app or just follow your curiosity.
🏞️ 10. Catch Sunset from Gas Works Park
Location: North Lake Union
Former industrial plant turned iconic city park. The hilltop gives you one of the best skyline views—especially at sunset. It’s a favorite local hangout and a great spot to relax after a long day.
💡 Bonus Tips for Doing Seattle on the Cheap
Use the Link Light Rail to hop between neighborhoods cheaply
Seattle Public Library offers free museum passes (if you’re here a while)
Bring a refillable bottle—most parks have water fountains
Check local event boards for free festivals, concerts, and pop-ups
⚽ Recharge, Explore, Repeat
Seattle’s World Cup energy will be electric, but the city’s natural beauty and offbeat charm are worth discovering too. With just a pair of shoes and a few hours, you can experience a side of Seattle that costs nothing—but stays with you.
