Summer is the air but having summer fun doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re looking for things to check out on a budget, we’ve got you covered. Between art, plants, and talks there’s a lot to do and see. Here are 12 of the best free or cheap things to do in Seattle this June.
Dorothy Brown’s “The Whiteness of Wealth” at SAL
Dorothy Brown’s most recently released book is an “exposé of racism in the American tax system” from the point of view of a law professor and expert on tax policy. You can expect a candid conversation between Dr. Carmen Rojas, President, and CEO of Marguerite Casey Foundation, and Dorothy Brown. They’ll focus on how tax policy in “Washington state systematically leaves Black Americans with less after-tax income, causing the ever-increasing racial wealth gap”.
When: June 8th
Where: Online
Cost: Free
Read with strangers
We love The Stranger’s Virtual Silent Reading Party and highly recommend checking it out if you haven’t already. After all, it’s a great way to enjoy a book with others, safely and quietly. So get out your books and get ready to sit back and read with people around the world.
When: Every Wednesday at 6 pm
Where: Online
Cost: $5+
Glazer’s Photofest 2021
This online photo fest is a great way to view “online presentations, in-person photo walks, and … shop great deals online or in-store”! So if you’re into either film or digital photography you won’t want to miss out on this. It’s a great way to learn and stock up on gear for the summer months.
When: June 10th-13th
Where: Online
Cost: Free/Varies
Hit Up A Late Spring Hike
The weather has been pretty grand thus far, and that’s made it easier than ever to get out and explore the gorgeous trails and stunning vistas the Seattle area has to offer. Feeling some hike inspiration? Yeah, us too. That’s why we’ve got a handy list of great hikes near Seattle to cross off this spring in the link above. Check ’em out, gear up, take a hiking buddy, and enjoy!
Plant & Garden Share
On the second. Saturday of every month you can check out a plant share hosted by the Beacon Hill Garden Club. Bring your bedding plants and veggie starts to share or trade for something new. If you’re a green thumb then you absolutely have to check this out.
When: June 12th
Where: 2533 16th Ave S
Cost: Free
Check out an outdoor pool
This month, two of Seattle’s favourite outdoor pools will reopen to the public. Mounger pool is located in Magnolia and typically appeals to youngsters thanks to the mix of smaller pools and a water slide. Colman Pool is in West Seattle and is probably one of the city’s coolest and maybe even best pools because it’s heated saltwater and is located on the Puget Sound. Both open on June 19th, but you’ll want to book a spot ahead of time due to the capacity limits.
Where: Mounger Pool – 2535 32nd Ave W; Colman Pool – 8603 Fauntleroy Way SW
When: Opens June 19th, 2021
Cost: 18 & under – $4.25; 18 & over – $6.25; 65 & over – $4.25
Georgetown Art Attack
We’re super excited to say that Georgetown Art Attack is making a comeback. This monthly art walk is back up and running again with tons of different venues for you to check out. Keep in mind each venue does things a bit differently and has different rules for you to follow but this art walk is well worth checking out.
When: June 12th
Where: Georgetown
Cost: Free
“Scenes from the Middle Class” by Dana Robinson
You can see a brand new show by Brooklyn-based multimedia artist Dana Robinson at Specialist Gallery. Robinson’s work touches on themes like youth, Black feminine identity, ownership, and nostalgia. The show is definitely worth checking out but be sure to make an appointment ahead of time.
When: On until June 19th
Where: 300 South Washington Street
Cost: Free
Related posts:
Want your own garden in Seattle? Here’s how to do it if you don’t have a yard
Hot new restaurants you should check out this June in Seattle
New Works by Ko Kirk Yamahira
This is Ko Kirk Yamahira’s second show at SOIL and is a continuation of his tactile explorations of deconstructed canvases and frames. His work is a meticulous form that encourages viewers to see these somewhat mundane objects in a new way. If you like minimalist art, it’s absolutely worth checking out.
When: Until June 26th
Where: 112 Third Ave S
Cost: Free
Visit a botanical garden
If you just want to get out for a walk this weekend then we recommend checking out one of our cities stunning botanical gardens. It actually turns out that there are a ton and we’ve gone ahead and created a list for you so that you don’t have to look too hard. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.
Where: Click above to see our picks
Virtual Pride 2021
Seattle Pride is going virtual again this year. Hop online to check out a celebration of LGBTQIA+ life and hear from speakers and performers. Namely, you’ll be able to hear from Big Freedia aka the Queen of Bounce music. It’ll be a fun celebration and just remember some in-person events are planned for later this year,
When: June 26th & 27th
Where: Online
Cost: Free
2021 University of Washington MFA + MDes Thesis Exhibition
The end-of-year exhibition at the Henry is one of the best ways to see what recently graduated and local artists are creating. You’ll get to see fresh work and help support our local artists. Plus this year it’s even better because work will be included from 2020’s graduates as well.
When: Until June 27th
Where: 15th Ave NE and NE 41st St
Cost: Free
2021 Sundance Institute Indigenous Short Film Tour
If you want to check out some new films this month then you absolutely have to check out the Sundance Institutes free Indigenous Short Film Tour. The tour is an “85-minute virtual program of seven short films directed by Indigenous filmmakers selected from recent editions of the Sundance Film Festival”. It’s a great way to learn and see new films.
When: Until June 30th
Where: Online
Cost: Free
PIANO O’CLOCK at Chophouse Row
Each Thursday, Friday, and Saturday you’ll be able to enjoy live music at Seattle’s Chophouse Row. It’s a great way to enhance your shopping experience or to simply come and enjoy. Either way, it’s a relaxing weekly event that you don’t want to miss and be sure to bring your mask.
When: Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday
Where: 1424 11th Ave
Cost: Free/Varies
That’s what we have for you when it comes to free or cheap things to do in Seattle this June. We hope that you get out there and have some fun and if you end up checking out any of these events be sure to let us know what you think. We’ll catch you back here next month.
