10 of the best free & cheap things to do in Seattle this January

December may have been an expensive month for many with extra time off work and of course, buying all those presents. That being said, it’s very doable to have a low spend January and still have plenty of fun in the city. Here are 10 of the best free & cheap things to do in Seattle this January.

Table of Contents

Hike to some frozen waterfalls

Snow and freezing temperatures are coming to our state’s wilderness. While winter might seem like the best time to stay indoors, it’s also the only time that you can see one of our state’s coolest natural wonders. Many of Washington’s waterfalls are frozen in time, waiting for you to explore.

See what’s new on Netflix

A new month means tons of new additions. January’s Netflix additions are a mix of new originals and some old favorites. So treat yourself to a little streaming time this month.

NW Pinball Collective Free Play Open House

When was the last time you had the opportunity to play pinball? If you can’t remember, it might just be time to try it out again for a little fun. The NW Pinball Collective has free, open sanctuary access for the public twice in January. You can check out their community and play some free pinball!

When: January 7th & 17th
Where: 1120 N 97th St
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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Hike Washington State Parks for free

What’s a better way to spend a new month and year than by getting some outdoor time? Outdoor enthusiasts get ready because there are not one but two free Washington State Park Days this January. It has to be one of the best free things to do in the Seattle area this month.

When: January 1st & 16th
Where: Washington State Parks
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: January 12th/Second Thursday of every month
Where: Capitol Hill
Cost: Free

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

Virtual Silent Reading Party

For those of you that love the Silent Reading Party but are more comfortable at home, you can still enjoy the virtual version. You’ll also get to hear piano tunes from pianist Paul Matthew Moore as you read amongst strangers over zoom.

When: Every other Wednesday
Where: Online
Cost: $5-$20

Brews ‘n Board Games

Snapshot Brewing offers an all-day happy hour for casual tabletop gamers! You can either borrow theirs or bring your own; fill up our punch card and win cool stuff. And get sweet deals like $9 house growler fills every Sunday.

When: Every Sunday
Where: 8005 Greenwood Ave N
Cost: Free/Varies

Have a great month, and enjoy all of the free & cheap things to do in Seattle!


— Update: 16-02-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article 15 Seattle Museums Offering Free Admission Days from the website secretseattle.co for the keyword things to do in seattle washington in january.

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Seattle Art Museum by Brett Wharton on Unsplash

Don’t miss out on Seattle museums’ free admission days!

Seattle is a beautiful city to explore but it can also get expensive fast. If you’re a student, a parent with young children, or just on a tight budget, there are ways to immerse yourself in the city’s art and culture without spending any money. Most of Seattle museums’ free admission days reoccur on the same date every month. Some even offer daily free admission!

Important note: Be sure to check each museum’s website before you go, as the hours for free admission can vary and sometimes you need to reserve your ticket in advance.

Check out upcoming Seattle museums free admission days below:

Summary of upcoming free admission days (February 2023):

February 2 (first Thursday of every month):

  • Seattle Art Museum (tickets available online and onsite)
  • National Nordic Museum (must be reserved in advance online)
  • Museum of Flight (from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. only)
  • Museum of History and Industry (from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. only)
  • Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture
  • Henry Art Gallery (free admission every Sunday as well)

February 24 (last Friday of every month):

  • Seattle Asian Art Museum

Daily free admission:

  • Frye Art Museum
  • Olympic Sculpture Park
  • Center for Wooden Boats
  • The Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center
  • Klondike Gold Rush Museum
  • Center on Contemporary Art

Additional free admission tips:

  • Make sure to check each museum’s free admission hours before you go, as they can vary.
  • Some museums require you to reserve your ticket in advance for free admission days—another reason to check their website first.
  • You can use your Seattle library card or King County library card for free admission to many Seattle museums such as Museum of Pop Culture (as well as the zoo and the aquarium).
  • Smithsonian Magazine hosts a free museum day every year on September 17. Mark your calendar now for next year!
  • Many Seattle museums offer free admission for children; see details below.

Now, in no particular order, here’s all the museum details:

1. Seattle Art Museum

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Seattle Art Museum by Brett Wharton on Unsplash

Seattle Art Museum (SAM), located downtown a block away from Pike Place Market, offers free admission on the first Thursday of every month as well as other discount access programs. Admission is always free for children age 14 and younger.

In the summer months, be sure to check out Summer at SAM. The museum hosts free outdoor events in Olympic Sculpture Park during July and August.

2. National Nordic Museum

Things to do in seattle washington in january
National Nordic Museum

National Nordic Museum in Ballard offers free admission on the first Thursday of every month. It also participates in the Seattle Library Museum Pass program; use your library card for a free visit! You can visit to learn all about Nordic culture, heritage, history, and art.

3. Museum of Flight

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Museum of Flight by Mario Mendez on Unsplash

The Museum of Flight offers free admission from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month. Children age four and younger are always admitted for free.

4. Northwest African American Museum

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Northwest African American Museum

Northwest African American Museum in the Central District just reopened their doors on January 16, 2023 with a Martin Luther King Day celebration. Adult admission is $10 but ages 18 and under are $5, and ages 3 and under are admitted for free. Other than extended hours on that day, there’s nothing currently on their website about free first Thursdays. Follow their Instagram page for updates.

5. Museum of History and Industry

The Museum of History and Industry in Lake Union Park offers free admission from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month but you must reserve your ticket in advance. Children age 14 and younger always have free admission. Visiting this museum is a great way to learn about the history of Seattle and the surrounding region!

6. Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture

Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture—located on the University of Washington campus—offers free admission on the first Thursday of every month. It also participates in the Museum for All program. Children age 3 and younger as well as UW students, staff and faculty always have free admission.

7. Henry Art Gallery

Henry Art Gallery operates on a suggested admission donation of $0 to $20. It also offers free admission on the first Thursday of every month as well as on every Sunday. Children, students, military personnel, and members of the University of Washington community always enjoy free admission. This contemporary art museum is located on the University of Washington campus. It also often has offsite exhibitions such as the free outdoors exhibition Chloë Bass: Soft Services currently located in Volunteer Park.

Read more  42 of the best things to do in and around Seattle this January

8. Frye Art Museum

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Frye Art Museum

Frye Art Museum is always free! This contemporary art museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is located in First Hill. They also have a variety of ongoing programs at the museum that are free to participate in.

9. Olympic Sculpture Park

Things to do in seattle washington in january

Olympic Sculpture Park is an outdoor sculpture museum located downtown that is always free. It is open daily 30 minutes after sunrise and closes 30 minutes before sunset.

10. Center for Wooden Boats

Things to do in seattle washington in january

This maritime museum is always free. It is open Wednesday through Sunday. Keep in mind that it is closed on Thanksgiving Day this month. You can also check out their free rowboat rental program.

11. Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center

Things to do in seattle washington in january
via duwamishtribe.org

This cultural center in West Seattle is open in a limited capacity with daily free admission. They are closed Sundays and Mondays.

12. Klondike Gold Rush Museum

Located at 319 2nd Ave S, this museum has a lot of interesting information about the 1890s Klondike gold rush in Seattle. It offers daily free admission for its self-guided exhibits.

13. Center on Contemporary Art

This downtown art gallery is open to the public free of charge Thursdays through Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

14. Seattle Asian Art Museum

Things to do in seattle washington in january

Seattle Asian Art Museum offers free admission for all on the last Friday of every month and children age 14 and under are always admitted for free. It is located in Volunteer Park in Capitol Hill. The hours are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

15. Museum of Pop Culture

Things to do in seattle washington in january
MoPOP by Hester Qiang on Unsplash

Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) does not have any free admission days but participates in Museums for All, which allows free admission anytime if you present an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card from any state. MoPOP also participates in the free library pass program with the Seattle Public Library and the King County Library System, so that’s another great reason to get a library card! Children age 4 and younger always have free admission to MoPOP.

Also check out: The 10 Most Exciting Exhibitions in Seattle To See This Fall

— Update: 16-02-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article These 10 Steamy Seattle Saunas And Hot Tubs Will Warm You Up from the website secretseattle.co for the keyword things to do in seattle washington in january.

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Shutterstock

Looking for a place in Seattle where you can relax, warm up, and feel pampered?

As we long for warm, sunny days, it may be a good time to seek out the next best thing. We’ve rounded up the top ten saunas, hothouses, hot tubs, and more in the Seattle area. Whether you’re looking to squeeze in a quick hour on a weekday or planning a full spa day (or even a weekend retreat), there’s plenty of options here that will have you warmed up in no time.

Read on for the best Seattle saunas and hot tubs (and more)!

1. Hothouse Spa & Sauna

If you’re looking to avoid a crowd, Hothouse Spa & Sauna is the place to go. This gender-inclusive spa allows up to four people to reserve a private time slot of two to four hours. Open seven days a week with hours that include evenings, it offers use of a hot tub, a cedar sauna, an herbal steam room, and a cold plunge shower. You’ll find it in the conveniently central location of the Capitol Hill neighborhood.

2. Olympus Spa

Olympus Spa is a women-only spa that has two locations: one in Lynnwood and the other in Tacoma. For the cost of a $48 day pass, you can enjoy the use of their hydrotherapy pools, far infrared energy rooms, steam room and more.

3. Banya 5

You can make an appointment to use the Parilka sauna, Turkish steam room, and various pools at Banya 5. Located downtown (not far from the Space Needle), this would be an excellent place to relax after a day of sightseeing or shopping.

4. Float Seattle

If you’ve ever heard of float therapy or sensory deprivation tanks, they’re actually the same thing. You can go to Float Seattle to enjoy an hour-long float in an enclosed saltwater tank. The weightless feeling can create a sense of peace and relaxation that lasts beyond your appointment. They have four convenient locations: Greenlake, Greenwood, Bellevue, and South Lake Union. Three of these locations also offer the use of an infrared sauna.

5. Sauna Hut

If you’re looking to spend some time warming up and relaxing in an infrared sauna, check out the Sauna Hut. Instead of heating the air like a typical sauna, these infrared saunas use wavelengths of light to raise your core temperature. They have three locations: Ballard, Green Lake, and Edmonds.

6. City Sweats

This chic spa is another Seattle spot for enjoying an infrared sauna session, although they are unique in that they include chromotherapy as part of your sauna experience. You can also opt for a concentrated heat experience via their infrared sauna wrap. You can find City Sweats locations in Bellevue, West Seattle, Wallingford, and Madison Park.

7. Little Red Day Spa

If you’re looking for a relaxing and romantic retreat with your partner, check out the Little Red Day Spa in SODO. This urban retreat offers several private suites for you and your loved one where you can both relax in the comforting warmth of jetted tubs and saunas.

8. Penelope And The Beauty Bar

Penelope and the Beauty Bar is another excellent option for relaxing after a busy day spent downtown. Located inside the historic Fairmount Olympic Hotel, this sophisticated spa offers the use of their exclusive jade-lined infrared sauna. After you’ve warmed up in the sauna you can choose from any one of their many beauty treatments.

9. Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort

Enjoy a weekend getaway in nature at the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort. Located on the Olympic Peninsula (about four hours from Seattle), this resort is open from the end of March to the end of October. You can book a rustic cabin and spend time relaxing in the natural mineral hot springs in addition to hiking and exploring the beauty of the Olympic National Park.

10. Lake Union Hot Tub Boats

Last but not least, we’d be remiss to not mention the famous hot tub boats on Lake Union. Regardless of the weather, you can get out on Lake Union and enjoy a stunning view of Seattle while staying warm in a wood-fired hot tub boat. You can have up to six friends join you for two hours on the lake, making this rental an excellent option for parties and celebrations. Get all the details on the Lake Union Hot Tub Boats website.

Stay warm out there, Seattle!

Also see: Seattle Polar Bear Plunge Returns For The First Time In Years This January

— Update: 16-02-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article 40 Exciting Things To Do In Seattle This January from the website secretseattle.co for the keyword things to do in seattle washington in january.

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Photo by Yiyang on Unsplash

Happy New Year, Seattle! It’s not only a new month, but a brand-new year for exploring our city. If you’re looking for some exciting things to do in Seattle in January 2023, we have plenty of options for you. Whether you’re interested in catching a live show, getting outdoors, going shopping, or seeing an immersive exhibition, there’s something on this list for you. The best part is that many of these events are cheap or even free!

This list is mostly in chronological order, and we will add more events as they pop up so be sure to bookmark this and check back regularly.

Here are the top 40 things to do in Seattle this January:

1. See a Candlelight Concert in Seattle

Things to do in seattle washington in january

Don’t miss out on these beautiful upcoming Candlelight Concerts in stunning Seattle venues:

  • Candlelight: A Tribute to Taylor Swift at the Lotte Hotel
  • Candlelight: A Tribute to Adele at Lotte Hotel
  • Candlelight: Skrillex to Zedd – Electric Legends on Strings
  • Candlelight: Holiday Special featuring “The Nutcracker” and More 118987

If you’d like to treat someone else, you can purchase a Candlelight gift card!

2. Get tickets for The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One In Seattle

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Superfly X

If you love FRIENDS™ then you cannot miss this immersive experience coming soon to Seattle. Get your tickets now for The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One in Seattle before it sells out.

3. Explore Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Yoga at Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience

Treat yourself to an immersive art experience this January at Seattle’s Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience.

4. Walk among Dinos Alive

Things to do in seattle washington in january

All ages will delight in the moving, life-size dinosaurs at Seattle’s Dinos Alive: An Immersive Experience.

5. See a discounted movie with an AMC Black Ticket

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Photo by Krists Luhaers on Unsplash

If you want to go to the movies this January, do yourself a favor and snag a discount by getting this AMC Black Ticket.

6. Brave the Seattle Polar Bear Plunge

Things to do in seattle washington in january
via Seattle Parks and Recreation

On Sunday, January 1 at exactly noon, hundreds (if not thousands) of Seattleites will welcome the new year by plunging into frigid water. Read all about how to participate in the Seattle Polar Bear Plunge before you go.

7. Take advantage of free state parks day

Things to do in seattle washington in january
The Palouse Falls via Shutterstock

Sunday, January 1 is free state parks day in honor of New Year’s Day. Check out our guide to the best Washington State Parks to plan your adventure.

8. Visit a Seattle museum for free

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Seattle Art Museum by Brett Wharton on Unsplash

You’ll be able to enjoy free access to Seattle museums in January if you have the inside scoop. Read our guide to free museum admission in Seattle.

9. See the zoo lit up for WildLanterns

Things to do in seattle washington in january
via Woodland Park Zoo

Don’t miss out on the WildLanterns light festival at Woodland Park Zoo before it’s gone! This winter experience is fun for all ages. Read all about WildLanterns before you go.

10. Catch the Sundance Film Festival Short Film Tour

From January 4 to January 12, the Northwest Film Forum will present a 95-minute screening of short films from the 2022 Sundance Film Festival. General admission is $14. Get more info about the Sundance Film Festival Short Film Tour here.

11. Join a Seattle art walk

Things to do in seattle washington in january
via West Seattle Art Walk

Multiple Seattle neighborhoods hold an art walk every month—and they’re free! Read all about the various Seattle art walks.

12. Celebrate the Vietnamese Lunar New Year

Seattle’s Vietnamese Lunar New Year celebrations start on January 14 and 15 at Seattle Center. Tết in Seattle will run from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. both days at Armory Food & Event Hall and Fisher Pavilion. This is a free, family-friendly event!

There are several other Lunar New Year celebrations happening in Seattle as well; read about them here.

13. Join the Community Celebration of Martin Luther King

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Photo by History in HD on Unsplash

On January 13, South Seattle College is hosting the 50th Annual Community Celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. starting at 9:30 a.m. You’ll be able to enjoy a hot breakfast, music, speakers, and more while celebrating his legacy.

14. Shop a Black-owned business marketplace

On Saturday, January 14 from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. there will be a pop-up marketplace at the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute in Central District—support local Black-owned businesses for MLK Day weekend!

Read more  8 Cool, Weird and Unique Things to Do in Los Angeles

15. Participate in a MLK Day rally and march

On Monday, January 16, continue the MLK remembrance by joining this rally and march at Garfield High School in the Central District. There will also be workshops, a job fair, and more. See the day’s schedule here.

16. Celebrate the reopening of NW African American Museum

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Northwest African American Museum

17. Visit a national park for free

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Olympic National Park by Alexandra Nicolae on Unsplash

Washington state is home to three stunning national parks such as Olympic National Park which boasts beaches, mountains, and a rainforest. You can visit the parks for free on January 16 in honor of Martin Luther King Day. If you didn’t get a chance to visit any of the Washington state parks on January 1, you can also choose to visit a state park on this day instead.

18. See an incredible acrobatic burlesque show

From January 19 to January 29, The Triple Door is putting on Bohemia: a mystical cabaret set in 1890s Hungary.

19. Learn all about deep sea creatures

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Photo credit: Solvin Zankl

If you’re interested in the deep sea, don’t miss this live speaker from National Geographic at Benaroya Hall. You’ll have three chances to catch From Shallows to Seafloor on January 22, 23, and 24. 

20. Attend a masquerade ball

Things to do in seattle washington in january
via Shutterstock

On January 27 there will be a masquerade ball in Capitol Hill! Get tickets now for Masquerade XIII at Century Ballroom.

21. Enjoy a free chamber music performance

Things to do in seattle washington in january
via Shutterstock

Seattle Chamber Music Society is performing their Winter Festival at Benaroya Hall at the end of January through the beginning of February. Week one is January 27 through 29. You can purchase tickets or enjoy a free recital before each performance if you’re on a budget.

22. Join the Seattle onesie pajama pub crawl

Things to do in seattle washington in january
via Onesie Pub Crawl

What’s more fun and cozy than getting dressed up in a silly onesie pajama and doing a pub crawl with your friends? Seattle’s Onesie Pub Crawl 2023 is on January 28.

23. Go to the 2023 Seattle Wedding Show

Things to do in seattle washington in january
via Shutterstock

Planning a wedding? You won’t want to miss the Seattle Wedding Show taking place on January 28 and 29 in the Washington State Convention Center. You’ll be able to browse discounted wedding gowns, lots of wedding vendors, and more.

24. Watch indie movies from the Sundance Film Festival

From January 28 to 30, the Northwest Film Forum in Capitol Hill will be screening films from the Sundance Film Festival. Individual film screening tickets go on sale in early January; NWFF members can purchase a festival pass now for $55.

25. Celebrate Asia with Seattle Symphony

Things to do in seattle washington in january
via Seattle Symphony

On January 29, you can enjoy live music and dance at Celebrate Asia at Benaroya Hall. Tickets start at $25.

26. Shop at Seattle weekend markets

Things to do in seattle washington in january
via Shutterstock

Seattle always has amazing weekend markets with crafters, vintage goods, and food trucks even in the winter months. Visit these Seattle markets this January:

  • Fremont Sunday Market: every Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. under the Fremont Bridge.
  • Ballard Farmers Market: every Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Ballard
  • University District Farmers Market: every Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on University Way NE
  • West Seattle Farmers Market: every Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in West Seattle
  • Capitol Hill Farmers Market: every Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in Capitol Hill
  • Georgetown Flea Market: the first Saturday of every month from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in Georgetown
  • SODO Flea Market: the second Saturday of every month from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in SODO

27. Take advantage of free events at Frye Art museum

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Frye Art Museum

Seattle’s Frye Art Museum has ongoing free events such as mindfulness meditation, storytelling, and hands-on art making. Get all the info on the Frye Art Museum website.

28. See the Lunar New Year lion dance at the waterfront

Things to do in seattle washington in january
via Shutterstock

This free, family-friendly event takes place on January 22 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Pier 62. There will be a lion dance and fire pits to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

29. Share your writing in a free open mic

Things to do in seattle washington in january
via Shutterstock

Every month Hugo House hosts an in-person open mic for writers that is free to attend and participate in. It’s typically on the third Monday of every month but is taking place on Tuesday, January 17 this year in observance of MLK Day. You can also choose to share your work in a virtual open mic on the first Monday of the month instead.

30. Visit the Seattle Spheres

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Photo by H Liu on Unsplash

The Spheres are one of Seattle’s coolest attractions, but you can’t just walk in whenever you want. Read our guide to snagging a reservation to tour the Seattle Spheres.

31. Warm up in a sauna or hot tub boat

Things to do in seattle washington in january

Winter blues got you down? Warm up this January with the help of our guide to Seattle’s best saunas, hothouses, and hot tubs (including hot tub boats!).

32. Make going out for drinks a whole experience

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Founders Club

Elevate your next night out by taking your date or your friends to one of Seattle’s coolest themed bars or a hidden Seattle speakeasy.

33. Try Seattle’s best non-alcoholic cocktails for Dry January

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Photo by Louis Hansel on Unsplash

Doing Dry January (or just not drinking for any reason)? We recently created a huge guide to all the best places in Seattle to find a non-alcoholic beverage. Make it your mission to try as many yummy mocktails in Seattle as possible this January.

34. Experience the best cookie in Seattle

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Photo by Amirali Mirhashemian on Unsplash

Apologies if this ruins your New Year’s resolution, but we went taste-testing and determined the 10 best cookies in Seattle. You’ll have to decide for yourself which one deserves the number-one spot.

35. Visit a new lobster roll shop

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Credit: Julie Harmsen

Conveniently located right across from Pike Place Market, Luke’s Lobster brings Maine style and flavor to Seattle while using locally-sourced Dungeness crab and local beer. They just opened in the beginning of January; check them out!

36. Go to a Capitol Hill dance party

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Photo by Antoine J. on Unsplash

Want to go dancing in Seattle? You have options, especially if you head to Capitol Hill:

  • Neumos has various themed dance parties, such as a Beyonce night and a Taylor Swift night.
  • Chop Suey has a reoccurring Dance Yourself Clean indie dance party on Saturday nights as well as their Monday night House Party.
  • Gold Bar hosts their Don’t Think dance party every Thursday night.

37. Treat yourself to a delicious meal

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Photo by Nerise Gokpinar on Unsplash

Not sure where to eat this month in Seattle? Check out some of our best food and restaurant roundups:

  • The best Italian restaurants in Seattle
  • The best burgers in Seattle
  • A popular vegan diner that just reopened
  • Seattle’s best places for breakfast 

38. Go on a day trip or weekend getaway

Things to do in seattle washington in january
Photo by Armon Arani on Unsplash

Want to get out of the city for a day or two? Check out our guide to 10 of the coolest (and most convenient) getaway destinations near Seattle.

39. Take a scenic train ride

Things to do in seattle washington in january
via Shutterstock

Seattle is an excellent starting point for several really cool train trips that you can take this month. The Amtrak Cascades has finally resumed its route between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. You can also book a winter getaway on these two train routes from Seattle that were named among the most scenic in the U.S.

40. Go to this new happy hour in the Seattle Spheres

You don’t need a reservation to pop into Willmott’s Ghost for their new happy hour. This stunning Italian restaurant located inside the Seattle Spheres is now offering specials on antipasti, spritzes, and more from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays. Enjoy!

Psst: Make sure you’re following us on Instagram for even more ideas for things to do in Seattle this January!

Also check out: 42 Free Things To Do In Seattle

— Update: 16-02-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article 42 of the best things to do in and around Seattle this January from the website curiocity.com for the keyword things to do in seattle washington in january.

A new year is underway and that means it’s time to get out there and see what’s happening around the city. Seattle has plenty to do this month between live music, live performance, eats, and more. Without further ado, here are 42 of the best things to do in and around Seattle this January.

Music

Railroad Earth

Wholesome start to January? New Jersey quintet Railroad Earth is headed for The Croc. You’ll be able to spend an evening listening to their happy tunes and enjoy their gleefully unpredictable live performance.

When: January 13th
Where: 2505 1st Ave
Cost: $32.50

Lettuce

Need some funk in your life? Lettuce is coming to Seattle to shake things up this January. You’ll be able to hear your old favorites as well as songs from their new Album ‘Unify’.

When: January 20th
Where: 1426 1st Ave
Cost: $65+

Junior Boys

Canadian electronic pop duo Junior Boys is coming to Seattle! The group will be joined by Los Angeles-based artist Claire Rousay at the Neptune Theatre.

When: January 21st
Where: 1303 NE 45th St
Cost: $23

Fitz & The Tantrums

If you’re an indie pop fan you’re probably quite familiar with Fitz & The Tantrums and their early 2010’s hits. If you’re looking to start 2023 on an upbeat note, they’re a group worth checking out.

When: January 22nd
Where: 1426 1st Ave
Cost: $65+

YG

How could you possibly say no to YG? The rapper is coming to play what is sure to be a memorable show at Seattle’s WAMU Theatre.

When: January 26th
Where: 800 Occidental Ave S
Cost: $55+

Candlelight Concerts Seattle

Candlelight Concerts have happened in over 100 cities around the world with more than 3 million attendees. For the Seattle series, there are 10 different concerts being offered with a selection of available dates. Hear renditions of your favorite artists like Radiohead, Taylor Swift, and Coldplay.

When: Until February 14th, 2023
Where: Participating venues
Cost: $30+

Arts & Culture

The Reader

Have you ever wanted to have a tarot reading enacted right in front of you? Well, The Reader is exactly that, half tarot, half comedy. “The Reader exists at the intersection of Intuition and Creativity.” The event describes itself as a divine improv comedy show and is a fun way to know yourself more fully.

When: Until January 7th
Where: 2505 First Ave
Cost: $15-$22

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: January 12th/Second Thursday of every month
Where: Capitol Hill
Cost: Free

Candlelight Concerts Seattle

Candlelight Concerts have happened in over 100 cities around the world with more than 3 million attendees. For the Seattle series, there are 10 different concerts being offered with a selection of available dates. Hear renditions of your favorite artists like Radiohead, Taylor Swift, and Coldplay.

When: Until February 14th, 2023
Where: Participating venues
Cost: $30+

Moulin Rouge! The Musical Seattle

This month, you can enter a world of splendor, romance, glitz, and grandeur at Seattle’s Paramount Theatre. Watch as bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows in the stage adaptation of Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film. The show is directed by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers meaning you’ll get an enchanting performance.

When: Until January 23rd
Where: 911 Pine Street
Cost: $40+

Karaoke with Baby Ketten

Ready to sing to your heart’s content in front of a bunch of strangers or your friends? It might just be time to head to karaoke at Cafe Racer. You’ll find a professional sound system, lights, a real stage, and an impressive library of music.

Read more  Top 5 Attractions in Pigeon Forge TN Your Teens Will Love

When: Every Monday
Where: 1510 11th Ave
Cost: Free

Green Book Tour

The Green Book Tour is a new self-guided history tour created by the soon-to-open Black & Tan Hall. It’s available both online and as an app depending on your needs. When taking the tour you’ll be transported back in time to the 1920s and 30s as you learn all about the Black-owned and Black-friendly businesses that operated along Seattle’s Jackson Street.

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

SIN at Kremwerk

Each first Saturday Kremwerk puts on SIN, a fetish, EBM, and industrial night. You can expect fetish performances, drinks, and dancing. Additionally, you can see features by Seattle Shibari and professional photography by Jason Renek. If you’re looking for something new, this might just be worth checking out.

When: First Saturday of each month
Where: 1809 Minor Ave #10
Cost: $15

MARY! A Drag Happy Hour

Each Tuesday, you can attend a drag happy hour at 7 pm at Capitol Hill’s Queer Bar. You’ll be able to watch drag icon Jane Don’t and also see weekly guests, and enjoy great eats, & drink specials. It’s sure to be the most fun you’ve had at a happy hour in a while.

When: Tuesdays
Where: 1518 11th Avenue
Cost: Varies

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

Contact High: A Visual History of Hip-Hop

If you’ve ever wanted to see behind-the-scenes images of your favorite hip-hop artists, this exhibit is for you. MoPOP’s newest exhibit, Contact High allows visitors to see over 170 images of hip hop’s most influential artists like Missy Elliott, Jay-Z, Queen Latifah, Tupac, and more. See four decades of photography, from the late 70s to today, documenting a revolution across different aspects of life.

When: Tuesday-Thursday 10 am–5 pm
Where: 325 Fifth Ave N
Cost: $30 – $32.50

Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design at MoPOP

At the exhibition, you’ll be able to see more than 60 costumes designed by Academy Award-winning designer Ruth E. Carter. You’ll not only get to see the costumes but also her vision and the in-depth process she uses for each project. Some of the featured costumes come from films like Black Panther, Roots, Do the Right Thing, Selma, Malcolm X, and more.

When: Daily 10 am–5 pm
Where: 325 5th Ave N
Cost: $25+

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

Food & Drink

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

Treat yourself to Brunch

As we face colder temperatures, it’s time to head indoors and start your weekends off right with a tasty brunch. From classic offerings to experimental fusion dishes, these spots are worth a try. We’ve compiled a list of the best brunch spots to check out in Seattle this winter.

Grab a drink at a beautiful lobby bar

If you’re looking for a new place to grab drinks in Seattle this weekend, heading to a local hotel is a great choice. Many of our city’s hotels have beautiful bars that also happen to be available to the public. Here are 5 of the swankiest hotel bars you can grab a drink at in Seattle.

Try a wine subscription

Local natural wine shop and bar La Dive actually offers a monthly wine subscription! When you sign up you can choose between three different subscription options. The first option is two bottles a month for $42, then four bottles a month for $84, or six bottles a month for $120.

Artusi Pasta & Wine Night

Sure pasta is easy to make at home but there’s nothing quite like having a really good bowl of pasta at a local restaurant. Artusi happens to have a pasta night each Sunday & Monday where you can score two full-sized pasta entrees and a pre selected bottle of Italian red or white wine all for $45.

When: Sundays & Mondays
Where: 1535 14th Ave
Cost: $45

Enjoy some comfort food

Comfort food is an easy choice when you’re hungry and looking for something to eat. It just so happens that Seattle has a ton of options scattered around the city with most of them being pretty affordable. From sweet to savory, we have some spots for you.

Outdoors & Adventure

Hike to some frozen waterfalls

Snow and freezing temperatures are coming to our state’s wilderness. While winter might seem like the best time to stay indoors, it’s also the only time that you can see one of our state’s coolest natural wonders. Many of Washington’s waterfalls are frozen in time, waiting for you to explore.

Check out some ice caves

Washington has many amazing caves that you can explore, but few of them are accessible in the winter. Don’t despair though because Washington also has ice caves. Seriously, what doesn’t our state have? There are two stunning ice caves that you can explore in Washington this winter.

Try one of Washington’s best hikes

If you’ve ever wondered what the best hikes in Washington are, we have your answer. We took a look at AllTrails rankings and have compiled 10 of the state’s most popular hikes for you to enjoy.

Take a road trip to a themed hotel

Have you been wanting to drive down the West Coast? Why not make your trip a little more lively by staying at a themed hotel? From romantic suites to pirate-themed bedrooms, we’ve found several hotels worth checking out.

Take a tour over the city

Walking tours are cool and all but why not experience Seattle from a birds-eye view? Don’t worry, you don’t have to have a pilot’s license, instead, you can choose from one of several plane tours offered in and around the Seattle area.

Misc

NW Pinball Collective Free Play Open House

When was the last time you had the opportunity to play pinball? If you can’t remember, it might just be time to try it out again for a little fun. The NW Pinball Collective has free, open sanctuary access for the public twice in January. You can check out their community and play some free pinball!

When: January 7th & 17th
Where: 1120 N 97th St
Cost: Free

Check off your winter bucket list

While winter may be downtime for most in the PNW, it happens to be an equally great season to get out in the world and enjoy all of the unique things winter in the PNW has to offer. From warming hot tub boats to hikes, eats and more, we have some suggestions for you.

Go ice skating

Ice skating is a fall and winter favorite and also a great way to get in the holiday spirit. These days it does feel like a bit of a blast from the past with fewer spots to enjoy the past time. However, there are still several places to enjoy ice skating. Here are a few of the best spots to go ice skating in and around Seattle.

First Caturday Seattle

Have a cat? Want to take it outside to meet other cats? On the first Saturday of each month, you can bring your fuzzy friend to Cal Anderson and socialize with fellow cat owners and their cats. It’s perhaps one of the more unique monthly things you can do in Seattle.

When: First Saturday of each month
Where: Cal Anderson Park, 1635 11th Ave
Cost: Free

WildLanterns

Kicking off on November 11th, WildLanterns is an opportunity to explore the zoo like never before. It’s a lantern festival unlike any in the Northwest due to its specific focus on nature and animals. No matter how old you are, you’re sure to be wowed by the size and diversity of the displays that the zoo and BECU create. After all, its one of the most classic holiday lights in Seattle.

When: Until January 22nd, 2023
Where: 5500 Phinney Ave N
Cost:  $31.95

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

See what’s new on Netflix

A new month means tons of new additions. January’s Netflix additions are a mix of new originals and some old favorites. So treat yourself to a little TV time this month.

Plan a winter date

Fall is one of the best times to enjoy dates, especially here in Seattle. Whether you just met someone or have been with your SO for years, we have some ideas on how you can make this fall’s dates the best yet.

Virtual Silent Reading Party

For those of you that love the Silent Reading Party but are more comfortable at home, you can still enjoy the virtual version. You’ll also get to hear piano tunes from pianist Paul Matthew Moore as you read amongst strangers over zoom.

When: Every other Wednesday
Where: Online
Cost: $5-$20

Mindfulness Meditation at the Frye

Need to take some time to get back in touch with yourself? You’re in luck because The Frye has a free, mindfulness meditation that you can attend on the first Wednesday of the month. It’s one of the most relaxing things to do in Seattle for sure.

Get some work done in a new space

Next, a trio of some “regular”, but still fun, options around the city. If working from home is getting a little old, then maybe check out our roundup of some of the best cafes in the city to get some work done.

Where: Click the link above for our picks

Brews ‘n Board Games

Snapshot Brewing offers an all-day happy hour for casual tabletop gamers! You can either borrow theirs or bring your own; fill up our punch card and win cool stuff. And get sweet deals like $9 house growler fills every Sunday.

When: Every Sunday
Where: 8005 Greenwood Ave N
Cost: Free/Varies

See? Look at all the things to do in Seattle! Have a great January, we’ll see you back here in the new year.

References

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About the Author: Tung Chi