November is nearly here, Seattle, and that means the holidays are just around the corner. Now that being said, it’s prime time to enjoy all the beauty of fall and the holidays without breaking the bank. Here are 14 of the best free & cheap things to do in Seattle this November.
Head to your local farmer’s market
Fall is prime time for making all sorts of cozy meals. There aren’t many places better than your local farmers market to pick up fresh produce, dairy, meat, and other locally made products.
When: Weekly and on weekends
Where: Locations across the city
Cost: Varies
Hmong New Year
Seattle Hmong New Year is presented in partnership with the Hmong Association of Washington (HAW). The festival “celebrates the end of the harvest season with intricate clothing, dance, food, and more.”
When: Saturday, November 4th
Where: 305 Harrison St
Cost: Free/Varies
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
Go ice skating
There are several places to go ice skating in and around Seattle this November. Prices vary by rink and skate time. You can also choose between renting skates or bringing your own. Of course, we’ve created a list of some of the best spots to check out.
Autumn Movie Nights
The Freeway Park Association is calling all movie lovers to enjoy The Goonies on the big screen right in the heart of Seattle. The movie starts at 7 PM and takes place at Seneca Plaza. Even better, free popcorn, snacks, and drinks will be provided.
When: Friday, November 10th
Where: 600 Seneca Street
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
Visit one of the nation’s largest public telescopes
If you’re into stargazing then get excited because one of the nation’s largest public telescopes is right here in Washington. Goldendale Observatory is worth the trip to the Columbia River Gorge, and it just so happens to be free to visit. Just make sure you make your reservations in advance.
Where: 1602 Observatory Drive, Goldendale, WA
Hours: October-March Friday-Sunday 2 PM-4 PM & 7 PM-10 PM
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Head to a local garden
Seattle is lucky to have tons of beautiful gardens located across the city that you can visit for free or very affordably. Whether you’re looking to see rare plants, native plant displays, or fall colors, these gardens have something for you.
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
Check out Washington State Parks
You can literally check Washington State Parks out of the Seattle Public Library. Well almost, you can check out a Discover Pass which allows you to visit Washington State Parks for free. Keep in mind, if you plan on camping you will still have to pay for your spot.
Visit a museum for free
You may or may not know but Seattle actually has 5 museums that you can always visit for free. We’ve listed them out and given you some details so you can take yourself on the perfect adventure. What’s more, many local museums offer free entrance on the first Thursday of the month.
Snowflake Lane
Beginning on Friday, November 24th, onlookers can experience the wonder of Snowflake Lane through an array of dazzling lights, and festive music in Bellevue’s complimentary nightly parade of holiday floats. You’re invited to line the sidewalks between Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square from NE 4th to NE 8th Streets every night at 7 PM.
When: Friday, November 24th-Sunday, December 24th
Where: Bellevue Way between NE 4th Street and NE 8th Streets
Cost: Free/Varies
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. It’s definitely one of the best free things to do in Seattle each weekend.
When: Every Sunday
Where: Evanston Ave N & 34th St
Magic in the Market
This year’s Magic in the Market at Pike Place takes place on Saturday, November 25th. There’s a wide range of activities and festive attractions for people of all ages to enjoy. You can check out classic events like photos with Santa, cookie decorating, and live holiday music. From 5 PM-6 PM, you can also watch the annual tree lighting ceremony and see the Market transform into a holiday wonderland.
When: Saturday, November 25th
Where: Pike Place Market
Cost: Free/Varies
Enjoy all of that beautiful fall weather and have fun with all of these free and cheap things to do in Seattle!
