Surrounded by mountains, water and endless natural beauty, Seattle resembles a vast playground for health-conscious and physically active people. Unfortunately, this comes at a price; Seattle's cost of living---including food, transportation, housing and health care---tends to run well above the national average. But the good news is that there are plenty of fun things to do in Seattle that don't cost a cent. Many of Seattle's most popular parks and scenic green spaces offer cultural and recreational opportunities at no charge to the general public.
Hike or Run in Discovery Park
Situated on the site of a former military fort, Discovery Park is a natural and serene destination for runners and hikers. The main trail loop takes you through shady forested areas, up to the edge of a bluff overlooking Puget Sound, and through an open meadow populated with wild rabbits. Additional trails lead to gentle streams, secluded tidal beaches and thickets of juicy wild blackberries.
Ride the Burke-Gilman Trail
The Burke-Gilman Trail provides cyclists with 18 miles of paved paths, from Seattle's Ballard neighborhood to the city of Bothell. From Bothell, the trail intersects with the Sammamish River Trail, which continues another 10 miles to Marymoor Park in Redmond. Along the trail you'll pedal past many of Seattle's most famous neighborhoods, as well as the Hiram Chittenden Locks, University of Washington, Gas Works Park and several outlying towns. If you don't own a bicycle, don't despair. The Burke-Gilman Trail is also popular with joggers, walkers and inline skaters.
Walk through the Olympic Sculpture Park
Set on a nine-acre former industrial site, the Olympic Sculpture Park is home to meandering walking paths dotted with larger-than-life art sculptures. Take advantage of one of the free public tours hosted by the Seattle Art Museum, or explore at your own pace. Open 365 days a year, the park regularly hosts a variety of special programs, events and activities for children and adults. The open waterfront location offers views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, and if you're in the mood for an extended walk, paths through the adjacent Myrtle Edwards Park and Elliott Bay Park make it possible to explore for hours.
Play at Alki Beach
West Seattle's Alki Beach Park has some of the city's most breathtaking views of downtown Seattle and the Space Needle, making it an ideal place to get some exercise, relaxation and fresh marine air. A long, sandy strip of beach draws volleyball players, beachcombers and sunbathers, and the 2.5-mile paved path parallel to the beach is filled with walkers, joggers, inline skaters and cyclists. Bring a picnic or visit one of the many restaurants, cafes and coffee shops just across the street from the park.
Explore Pike Place Market
Seattle is filled with farmers markets; nearly every neighborhood has one at some point during the year. Even downtown, finding healthy, farm-fresh food is a snap. About 100 farmers sell their wares at stalls in the crowded and labyrinthine market building, along with numerous crafts people, boutique shops, restaurants, street performers and musicians. Fresh produce, meat and poultry, cheese and dairy items, local wines and other artisan goods are available year round. Even if you don't intend to purchase anything, the festive atmosphere and waterfront views make it an entertaining place to spend a few hours.
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