More and more people are visiting Seattle every year. In 2017, a whopping 39.9 million people toured the city, which boasts of several festivals, outdoor activities, band concerts, art museums, and famous views and attractions.
If you’re planning a trip to Seattle, you have to prepare an itinerary of things to do and places to visit. You also have to make sure that you don’t overspend. So, consider your priorities, such as checking the prices of hotels near the Seattle Center and setting a budget for food and transportation.
Here are some more tips to ensure yourself a budget-friendly stay in Seattle.
Schedule your visit from September to October
If you love bargain prices, the best time to visit Seattle is from September to October. During this period, you can expect fewer tourist crowds, more hotel room availability, and discounted accommodation costs.
These months see an average temperature of 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, so be sure to pack the appropriate clothes. You wouldn’t want to spend your money on buying clothes when you get there.
Use public transport to get around Seattle
Using public transportation is the best solution if you want to cut down costs when getting around the city. You can take the Link Light Rail, Seattle Center Monorail, Seattle Streetcar, or public buses. Transportation will cost you around $65 per day.
Book budget accommodation
Most hotels in Seattle offer special rates during off-peak season. A $90-hotel room price per night is already a good deal. With this price, you can enjoy a comfortable bed, private bathroom, and free WiFi.
To save even more, look for accommodation that’s accessible. This means that it should be near bus stops or tourist attractions like the Seattle Needle. If you’re attending a concert or a business conference, for example, you can check in a hotel that’s near the event. This way, you won’t spend a lot of money on transportation.
Limit your food budget
You might feel so excited about trying food in Seattle. However, you need to remember that you have to set a budget for all your expenses, including food. Avoid luxury restaurants as much as possible. There are always cheaper alternatives where you can enjoy signature Seattle drinks and dishes.
Look for places where you can try Seattle coffee and sumptuous seafood. A budget-friendly dinner can cost you about $25. If you want even a cheaper option, you can try fast food, which will cost you only $7 to $15.
Choose tourist attractions to visit
Don’t go overboard by trying to visit all tourist spots in Seattle in one short trip. If you have limited time, you can prioritize the Pike Place Market, Space Needle, Seattle Waterfront, Pioneer Square, and Seattle Center. You can always come back if you want to visit the other attractions in the city.
If you want to explore Seattle on a budget, follow these tips to help you limit your expenses. Make sure to follow your budgeted itinerary. Avoid splurging on unnecessary expenses during your trip to ensure an enjoyable and memorable stay in Seattle.