Weekend in Seattle
This weekend itinerary balances iconic Seattle family attractions with wonderful free and low-cost activities, perfect for families with children aged 3-12. We've included opportunities for active play, educational discovery, and relaxed family bonding, keeping a budget-conscious approach. Remember to check attraction websites closer to the date for any specific event schedules or changes in operating hours.
Friday Evening - Family Fun Night
Friday, November 7Library Story Time
Kick off the weekend with a cozy and engaging story time at a local Seattle Public Library branch.
Many branches offer free story times or play-and-learn sessions for young children on Friday afternoons, perfect for winding down the week with literacy and fun. Specific programs and times vary by branch, so check the Seattle Public Library website for the most current schedule closer to the date.
Ideal for children ages 0-6, though older siblings can enjoy reading or exploring other library sections. Libraries typically have restrooms and are stroller-accessible. Duration is usually 30-45 minutes. A great free indoor option, especially if the weather is cool or rainy.
Public libraries are generally well-served by public transport. Parking can vary by branch; the Central Library has paid underground parking, while neighborhood branches may have street parking.
Playground & Pizza
Enjoy an early evening at one of Seattle's fantastic community playgrounds, followed by a casual, budget-friendly pizza dinner.
Gas Works Park offers incredible views and a unique play barn, while Golden Gardens Park has beach access and a large play area. Afterwards, grab a pizza from a local Seattle favorite known for family-friendly dining.
Kids will love the open space and creative play structures. Gas Works offers expansive fields for running around and a hill for rolling. Restrooms are available at the park. Pizza is always a crowd-pleaser and many pizzerias offer kids' menus or large pies for sharing, making it an easy and affordable dinner option for an early bedtime.
Gas Works Park has a free parking lot. Golden Gardens also has ample free parking. Public transport is available to these areas, but driving is often more convenient with young children and strollers.
Saturday - Family Adventure Day
Saturday, November 8Woodland Park Zoo
Spend the morning exploring the Woodland Park Zoo, home to over 900 animals from around the world.
Kids will love seeing gorillas, elephants, lions, and the award-winning Banyan Wilds. The zoo offers engaging exhibits, interactive play areas, and often has keeper talks or animal feedings throughout the day.
Perfect for energetic kids, the zoo provides plenty of walking, discovery, and opportunities for animal encounters. Stroller-friendly paths, numerous restrooms, and family-friendly dining options are available. Plan for 2-4 hours here. Check their website for specific daily programs and any special events closer to the date. Age suitability: all ages, especially 3-12.
Paid parking lots are available at the zoo. It's also accessible via several King County Metro bus routes.
Picnic Lunch
After a morning at the zoo, enjoy a budget-friendly picnic lunch at Woodland Park, which surrounds the zoo.
There are plenty of grassy areas and picnic tables, offering a relaxed setting for families to refuel. Pack sandwiches, snacks, and drinks, or grab ready-made items from a nearby grocery store or deli.
Allows kids to run around and burn off some energy before the afternoon activity. This is a cost-effective way to manage lunch. Restrooms are available in the park. Bring a blanket and enjoy the fresh air.
Easily accessible by foot from the zoo entrance/exit, or a short walk from the parking lots.
Pacific Science Center
Dive into discovery at the Pacific Science Center, located at Seattle Center.
With five buildings of interactive exhibits, including the Tinker Tank, dinosaur models, a butterfly house, and a planetarium, there's something to spark curiosity in every child. It's an excellent indoor option, perfect for an afternoon of hands-on learning and fun.
Highly interactive exhibits make it engaging for kids of all ages, especially 3-12. The butterfly house is a favorite. Restrooms are abundant, and the center is fully stroller-accessible. Plan for 2-3 hours. Check their website for daily shows (like planetarium or IMAX) and special exhibit schedules.
Located at Seattle Center, parking is available in several paid garages (e.g., Mercer Street Garage, 5th Ave N Garage). It's also easily accessible via the Monorail from downtown, or various bus routes.
Seattle Center Fun
After the Science Center, enjoy some free time exploring the grounds of Seattle Center.
Kids can run around the International Fountain, marvel at the Space Needle from below, or play at the Artists at Play playground, a truly unique and accessible play area. This allows for some free play and fresh air before dinner.
The Artists at Play playground is fantastic for all ages with its unique climbing structures, musical instruments, and accessible features. The International Fountain is mesmerizing, especially at dusk. Restrooms are available throughout Seattle Center. This is a great way to wind down the afternoon and let kids get some last energy out.
Still within Seattle Center, so previous parking or public transit applies. The Monorail offers a fun, quick ride to/from downtown if you parked there.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Day
Sunday, November 9Farmers Market & Park
Start your Sunday with a visit to a local farmers market like the Ballard Farmers Market or West Seattle Farmers Market.
Enjoy browsing local produce, crafts, and perhaps pick up some fresh baked goods for breakfast or a snack. Many markets have live music or a lively atmosphere, and are usually surrounded by parks perfect for kids to run around.
A relaxed pace for Sunday morning, offering a taste of local Seattle culture. Kids enjoy the sights, sounds, and sometimes samples! Look for a nearby park (like Ballard Commons Park near the Ballard Market) for free play afterwards. Restrooms are usually available at or near the market.
Both Ballard and West Seattle markets have street parking available (can be busy) and are served by bus routes.
Seattle Children's Museum
Spend the afternoon at the Seattle Children's Museum, also located at Seattle Center.
Designed specifically for young children, the museum features hands-on exhibits that encourage imaginative play, exploration, and learning through discovery. Exhibits include a Global Village, Mountain Forest, and a fantastic Discovery Bay for infants and toddlers.
Perfect for children ages 0-8, but engaging for older siblings who enjoy imaginative play. The museum is entirely hands-on. Restrooms and family facilities are available. Plan for 2-3 hours. It's a great indoor option, especially if Sunday brings typical Seattle drizzle.
Located at Seattle Center, accessible via paid garages (e.g., Mercer Street Garage, 5th Ave N Garage) or public transit. It's a short walk from the Monorail station.
Lake Union Playground
Wrap up your weekend with some outdoor fun and stunning views at Lake Union Park.
The park features a wonderful playground with a unique boat theme, perfect for kids to get some final energy out. Enjoy watching seaplanes take off and land, and boats glide across the lake, making for a picturesque end to your family weekend.
The nautical-themed playground is a big hit with kids. There's plenty of open space for running and benches for parents to relax. Restrooms are available. This is a free, easy wind-down activity before heading home to prepare for the school week.
Paid street parking is available, and there are several paid parking lots nearby. Accessible by King County Metro bus routes.
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