The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Seattle Day Trip

Explore Seattle without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Visit Seattle on a limited budget by exploring its numerous free attractions such as the iconic Pike Place Market, the Olympic Sculpture Park and the Seattle Central Library. Stay in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels, vacation rentals or affordable hotels in the downtown area. Enjoy the city's diverse food scene by trying out affordable street food, happy hour deals or cooking your meals using ingredients from local farmers markets.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Exploring Seattle on a Budget

  • Start with a visit to Pike Place Market, try some of the world-famous fish from the fishmongers and enjoy the street performers.
  • Walk to the Seattle Waterfront and take a free ride on the Seattle Center Monorail for a scenic route to the Space Needle.
  • Take a selfie with the iconic Space Needle in the background, and then head over to the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit.
  • For lunch, grab a delicious sandwich at Paseo Caribbean, a food truck with big flavors and small prices.
  • Take a stroll through the Olympic Sculpture Park, admiring the views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
  • End the day with a visit to the Fremont Troll, a quirky public art installation under the Fremont Bridge. Don't forget to take a picture!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Seattle by plane is to fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. There are many airlines that fly into this airport from all over the world including United Airlines, Delta, and Alaska Airlines.

Car

The best way to get to Seattle by car is to take the I-5 highway if coming from the north or south. If coming from the east, take either the I-90 or US-2 highway. Traffic can be heavy during peak times so plan accordingly.

Train

Currently, there are no passenger train services that go directly to Seattle. However, Amtrak does operate a train that goes to nearby Tacoma. From there, passengers can take a bus or taxi to reach Seattle.

Boat

The best way to get to Seattle by boat is to take a ferry. The Washington State Ferries are a popular option for passengers coming from nearby islands or the Olympic Peninsula. The downtown Seattle ferry terminal is located at Pier 52 and serves multiple ferry routes.

Bus

The best way to get to Seattle by bus is to take Greyhound. Greyhound has many locations throughout the United States and has a station located in downtown Seattle.

More travel plans

Weekend Getaway to Vibrant Seattle, USA

A trip to Seattle, United States as a tourist offers a vibrant city atmosphere, stunning waterfront views, and a diverse range of cultural experiences to enjoy. Visitors can explore the iconic landmarks such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Museum of Pop Culture. A foodie's dream, Seattle is famous for its coffee culture, seafood cuisine, and craft breweries.

Seattle on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

Seattle is a vibrant city that can be enjoyed even on a limited budget. Start by visiting the iconic Pike Place Market, which offers a variety of affordable local food and unique souvenirs. Don't miss out on the city's beautiful parks, such as Gas Works Park, for stunning views of the skyline and Mount Rainier.

Seattle in Four Days: Fun-Filled Family Adventures

A family friendly trip to Seattle offers an abundance of activities and attractions for all ages. From exploring the iconic Space Needle to visiting the fascinating exhibits at the Pacific Science Center, there are plenty of educational and fun experiences for children. Families can also enjoy Seattle's beautiful parks, such as Discovery Park and Green Lake Park, which offer opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and even kayaking.

Seattle Adventure: A Budget-Friendly Family Fun Fest

Seattle, United States offers a perfect destination for a family friendly trip. Explore the iconic Space Needle with breathtaking views of the city, while indulging in local delights at Pike Place Market. Visit the Museum of Pop Culture to ignite your child's imagination and enjoy a fun-filled adventure at the Woodland Park Zoo.