Can you believe May is almost here? Before you know it the days will be bright, full of light, and maybe even warm. If you’re trying to stay conscious of spending there’s still plenty of fun to be had around the city. Here are 10 of the best free & cheap things to do in Seattle this May.
TRANSlations
The 18th annual Seattle Trans Film Festival takes place this May. It’s produced by Three Dollar Bill Cinema, and is “dedicated to showcasing films by, for, and about trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming people.” It is one of three transgender film festivals in the US and one of only a few in the world!
When: May 4th-7th
Where: Online & In person
Cost: $13+
Free Public Tours of Washington Park Arboretum
The Arboretum is one of Seattle’s best spots for getting outdoors, especially in the summer. While you can walk it by yourself at any time, you can also enjoy free tours on the first Thursday of each month from 11:30 am-1 pm.
When: First Thursday of every month
Where: 2300 Arboretum Drive E
Cost: Free
Capitol Hill Art Walk
A digital map allows you to pick and choose where you stop on the Capitol Hill Art Walk. Stop by small galleries, local businesses, and more on this monthly art walk.
When: Second Thursday of every month
Where: Capitol Hill
Cost: Free
Soak in a hot spring
Not everyone has the luxury of having a hot tub or access to local services like hot tub boats. But if you’re looking for a similar experience in Washington nature, that can be arranged. You can visit many of our state’s local hot springs for $10 or under with some even being free!
Silent Reading Party: In-Person
The beloved Silent Reading Party is back in person if you’d like to have the experience of reading amongst strangers inside the beautiful Hotel Sorrento. Keep in mind there is a $20 food and drink minimum on top of your ticket price.
When: First Wednesday of each month
Where: 900 Madison St
Cost: $8-$40
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Three Sacks Full Dinner Pop-Up
This local pop-up restaurant features a menu largely based on vegetables and grains. Every two weeks you can try an original menu with organic produce grown on the pop-up’s farm in the Snoqualmie Valley. Other ingredients not grown on the farm are always sourced from farms across Washington and Oregon.
When: Every two weeks
Where: Varies by pick-up date
Cost: Varies by dish
Take a class for free
If you’d like to try learning something new this month and have a library card, you’re in luck. The Seattle Public Library offers thousands of free courses that are accessible with your library card. From animation to business skills, they have it all.
Compline Choir
Compline Choir has been sung every Sunday since 1956 at Saint Mark’s Cathedral on Seattle’s Capitol Hill. Open to all, the evening choir is a great way to relax and unwind before the start of another week. It’s also a great excuse to have a look inside one of the hill’s most unique buildings.
When: Every Sunday
Where: 1245 10th Ave E
Cost: Free
Marsden Hartley: An American Nature
One of Seattle’s best museums just so happens to be free! Head to the Frye to see works from American modernist artist Marsden Hartley. His works responded to the “Depression-era cultural and commercial desire for all things homegrown”
When: Until May 21
Where: 704 Terry Ave
Cost: Free
Fremont Sunday Market
The Fremont Market is truly a classic Seattle shopping experience and it happens year-round, rain or shine. It’s a great place to find antiques, vintage clothing, and much more.
When: Every Sunday
Where: Evanston Ave N & 34th St
Have a great month, and enjoy all of the free & cheap things to do in Seattle!
