Bird populations are always shifting and changing. Bird count events help collect data that highlight changes in bird populations, such as the effects of warm weather on their migration patterns and other phenomena. Several important bird count events held throughout the year. Anyone can participate in these events, … [Read more...] about Annual bird count events
Sports & Recreation
13 best nature walks to see Seattle fall color
In an average year, the best time to see Seattle fall color is the first two to three weeks of October. Fall foliage in Seattle is particularly vibrant after dry, hot summers. In 2020, most of Washington State is experiencing "neutral" conditions with average rainfall and temperatures, which means we've had some hot … [Read more...] about 13 best nature walks to see Seattle fall color
Center for Wooden Boats, Seattle and Camano Island
The Center for Wooden Boats (CWB) is a non-profit organization that celebrates the rich and varied watercraft heritage that is a vital part of the history of Seattle and the Puget Sound region. At this hands-on maritime museum, the exhibits are on the water and the public is encouraged to use them. The organization … [Read more...] about Center for Wooden Boats, Seattle and Camano Island
Our big list of boat shows & waterfront festivals
Seattle is nearly surrounded by fresh and salt water. This city is inextricably linked to fishing and maritime industries, pleasure boating, and waterfront activities. Residents in the Puget Sound region enjoy a wide variety of activities on the water, in motorboats, sailboats, and a wide variety of paddle … [Read more...] about Our big list of boat shows & waterfront festivals
Wooden Boat Festival in Port Townsend
The first Wooden Boat Festival (WBF) in North America in 1978 at Port Townsend eventually joined with Northwest Maritime Center in 2005 to continue to engage and educate people in traditional maritime culture and to inspire people to adventure on the sea--the most powerful teacher you may ever know! Today, the Port … [Read more...] about Wooden Boat Festival in Port Townsend
Washington State parks & public lands open for recreation
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages more than 160 recreation sites and 1,200 miles of trail. Campsites are available first come, first served at no additional cost for vehicles with a valid Discover Pass, making it easier than ever to find your new favorite outdoor … [Read more...] about Washington State parks & public lands open for recreation
40 Free and cheap things to do for Labor Day
Listed below are free and cheap things to do for the Labor Day holiday weekend, September 3-6, 2021. It’s a collection of links to information found on Greater Seattle on the Cheap as well as our “mother ship”, the national Living on the cheap website. What is Labor Day? Labor Day is a federal holiday, celebrated on … [Read more...] about 40 Free and cheap things to do for Labor Day
30 great park trails for kids in the Puget Sound region
Here's a list of parks throughout the Puget Sound region that feature easy nature walks that are great places to take your kids. These park trails make for pleasant day trips, weekend outings, or as part of a long summer vacation. These kid-friendly trails are especially nice destinations for families or anyone … [Read more...] about 30 great park trails for kids in the Puget Sound region
Popular King County parks for day hikes
King County park system covers 26,000 acres of public lands. That's an unlimited amount of awesome. The award-winning parks and recreation division offers recreational experiences for every interest, including 200 parks, 175 miles of regional trails, and 180 miles of backcountry trails, plus ballfields, playgrounds and … [Read more...] about Popular King County parks for day hikes
Free trail maps for running or walking
Listed below are free regional and Seattle trail maps for running and walking, whether you want ideas for a regular fitness program to enjoy all year long, or just a casual family outing or romantic stroll in a nearby park. The information includes a variety of downloadable and printable maps, online … [Read more...] about Free trail maps for running or walking
Car-free Bicycle weekends in southeast Seattle
Seattle Parks and Recreation invites everyone to bike, jog, or stroll along Lake Washington Boulevard South on weekends between Mount Baker beach on the north and Genesee Park on the south. Here's a list of nearby Seattle parks with free parking (listed from north to south along the Bicycle Sunday route): Colman … [Read more...] about Car-free Bicycle weekends in southeast Seattle
Canoe, rowboat and kayak rentals at UW Seattle
The UW Waterfront Activities Center at the University of Washington in Seattle, located directly behind Husky Stadium on Union Bay and the Montlake Cut, offers canoe, rowboat, and kayak rentals to the general public seven days a week, from April through October. Unvaccinated individuals are required to wear masks … [Read more...] about Canoe, rowboat and kayak rentals at UW Seattle
Free Skateboard Parks in Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, and Redmond
Listed below are Seattle skateboard parks, roughly in order from north to south throughout the city. After the Seattle list, you will find a list of skateboard parks in surrounding cities throughout the Puget Sound region. Seattle skateboard parks Seattle, Dahl (Waldo J.) Playfield, 7700 25th Ave. NE … [Read more...] about Free Skateboard Parks in Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, and Redmond
Free guided low tide beach walks in summer 2021
During summer, you can visit Puget Sound beaches during low tide and learn about the marine plants and animals. Biologists and volunteer guides will be on hand from the Seattle Aquarium and Harbor Wild Watch. Reservations are not needed. Just check the lists below and show up during low tide. Each year, dozens of … [Read more...] about Free guided low tide beach walks in summer 2021
Take a hike! Metro summer bus service to Cascade trailheads
"Trailhead Direct” is a seasonal service that operates on weekends and designated holidays from spring through fall. The service provides access to some of the most beautiful places King County has to offer with convenient, reliable and affordable service. Even if you don’t own a car, Trailhead Direct gives everyone … [Read more...] about Take a hike! Metro summer bus service to Cascade trailheads
Ultimate Guide to free spray parks, wading pools, beaches
These free community spray parks offer welcome relief when temperatures soar in summer in Seattle and cities around the Puget Sound region. Kids can cool off and families can enjoy a free afternoon of play. Local conservation experts encourage people to use free public spray parks and wading pools rather than fill … [Read more...] about Ultimate Guide to free spray parks, wading pools, beaches
2021 free park entrance days in Washington State
Take advantage of free entrance days in National Parks and Washington State Parks throughout the year. Mark your calendar for these fee-free days. Plan an outing with family or friends at the nearest park. Or, get away to another park around Washington State. Short History of Our National Parks In 1872 in the … [Read more...] about 2021 free park entrance days in Washington State
Big Seattle Boat Show
The Seattle Boat Show is the West Coast's Largest Boat Show featuring more than 1,000 recreational watercraft, from stand-up paddleboards to superyachts and everything in between. The Boat Show also has acres of accessories, all the latest gear, and free boating and fishing seminars, including low-tech and high-tech … [Read more...] about Big Seattle Boat Show
Free summer bowling for kids (and their adults)
Bowling centers, schools, and other community organizations have worked together to provide affordable bowling to kids and families. It's a great summer activity designed by bowling centers to give back to the community and to provide a safe, secure, and fun way for kids to spend time this summer. About … [Read more...] about Free summer bowling for kids (and their adults)
Free water safety guides & Washington boating laws
If you plan to get out on any of the many waterways in Seattle and around the Puget Sound region, be sure you are prepared. Whether you will be in a motor boat, sailboat, canoe, kayak, or paddleboard, or enjoying lakes and rivers as a swimmer or water skier, be sure to get familiar with Washington Boating Laws and … [Read more...] about Free water safety guides & Washington boating laws
Summer camps & school break camps
We've updated our summer camps list for 2021 and indicated those that are cancelled and those that are accepting registration. There is a lot of variety in summer camps schedules and activities in the Seattle-Tacoma metro region. There are day camps, weekly camps, half-day camps, full day camps, and overnight camps. … [Read more...] about Summer camps & school break camps
Golf course discounts in the Pacific Northwest
If you love golf, playing in the Puget Sound region has some challenges. First of all, golf is a pricy sport. But, there are some deals to be had. Then, there is the weather. Tips for golfing in Pacific Northwest weather When you schedule tee times during cold or rainy weather, be sure to warm up before you … [Read more...] about Golf course discounts in the Pacific Northwest
Kids can Try Hockey Free in the Puget Sound region
USA Hockey provides the foundation for the sport of ice hockey in America, helping young people become leaders (even Olympic heroes)l, while promoting a lifelong love of the sport. USA Hockey’s primary emphasis is on the support and development of grassroots hockey programs. Ice hockey is for everybody. In addition … [Read more...] about Kids can Try Hockey Free in the Puget Sound region
Earth Day events in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area
Earth Day events in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area include conservation, recycling, and other activities designed to educate us on the benefits of protecting our natural resources through mindful living. Many events are free, but many require that you register in advance. We might also include events that have a small … [Read more...] about Earth Day events in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area
Seattle snow day sledding tips
Snow parks in the Cascade Mountains are a great choice during winter. But on the rare occasion the Seattle area gets enough flurries for a snow day, local kids take to any of the hundreds of parks and green spaces around the region for some sledding fun. Tips for sledding safely These are some good rules to ensure … [Read more...] about Seattle snow day sledding tips
