Everett is an exciting city with plenty of fun and free activities for people of all ages.
Located 25 miles north of Seattle and the county seat of Snohomish County, this hot spot has quickly become a destination for its scenic beauty and cultural attractions.
Founded on the tip of Port Gardner Bay at the Snohomish River’s estuary in 1893, Everett was initially established as a significant lumber hub filled with large sawmills.
However, after World War II, its economy shifted toward aerospace when Boeing opened up an airplane assembly factory at Paine Field in 1967.
In addition to its rich history and a blend of old and new industry, Evertt is home to many events throughout the year and minor sports teams, including the Everett Silvertips hockey team.
For those exploring this fascinating city on a budget, here are 15 free things to do in Everett, Washington.
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The Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens opened in 1964 and is on Alverson Boulevard.
The gardens’ unique sculptures by Northwest artists represent contemporary, geometric, playful, and classic styles.
The arboretum’s first garden to be established, Conifer Garden, will impress visitors.
At Viewing Mound, one can find Pam Hom’s water and metal artwork Fibonacci while taking in the sound of cascading water at the same time.
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Another must-see feature is the Japanese Maple Grove, with its stunning array of colors throughout different seasons.
Other popular activities are exploring the Small Urban Tree Walk and viewing the Master Gardener Demonstration Garden for some greenhouse inspiration.
Any nature enthusiast visiting Everett should visit Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens for a memorable experience!
Explore the thriving art scene of Everett and experience the best of downtown during the monthly Art Walk.
On the third Thursday of each month, you can take a self-guided tour around town to revel in outdoor sculptures, murals, and artwork by talented local artists.
Starting at 5 p.m., you’ll have plenty of time to wander downtown while admiring the spectacular pieces on display.
Visitors have ample opportunity to soak up all the culture that Everett has on offer, and best of all, it’s free!
Plan your visit for maximum enjoyment, whether for a romantic evening out or to appreciate great art.
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Come and experience the beauty of Howarth Park to enjoy a day exploring its picturesque beach with stunning views.
Relax by listening to the waves crashing against the shore or stroll along its golden sands.
Located on Mukilteo Boulevard with breathtaking views of Puget Sound, Howarth is a 28-acre, three-tiered park with amenities sure to delight anyone seeking a peaceful escape.
You can take your dog to one of the park’s ample off-leash areas and explore the winding pathways while admiring the native fauna and flora.
After discovering the area, visitors can use designated picnic tables and playgrounds to turn their exploration into a day of relaxation and fun.
And if that’s not enough, take advantage of its restroom facilities, tennis court, and viewpoint for stunning sea vistas.
Whether to spend a serene day alone or get lost in nature with family, Howarth Park Beach provides an enchanting experience you’ll never forget.
Taking your little ones to Lowell Riverfront Park Trail will please all ages.
The 1.75-mile trail has a 10-foot wide concrete path, making it perfect for walking, hiking, and biking enthusiasts.
It also has spectacular vistas of Baker and Cascades Mountains and various animal habitats.
You can begin your journey at the trailhead off Lenora Street or extend your stroll with the one-mile circular track in the park.
As you hike, look up above so the kids can spot eagles and owls hovering nearby.
Remember your puddle-stomping boots because this area is also a great place to explore.
Trains are constantly passing by Lowell Riverfront Park Trail, so children will be entertained throughout the walk.
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With its origins stemming from 1974 when a collective of artists and art enthusiasts founded the Schack Art Center in Hoyt Avenue, it has since grown to become an iconic creative arts venue.
Since then, it has developed from a grassroots movement into a premier visual arts center between Seattle and Vancouver.
Not only will you be able to watch shows by established local and international artists and up-and-coming talent, but you may also stumble upon local artists working their magic at the advanced glass-blowing workshop.
The Schack Art Center is committed to ensuring that both children and adults benefit from this platform, which provides free classes in various artistic disciplines and free annual events throughout the year.
Furthermore, exhibitions are curated to present art with social justice themes and work from other cultures.
It also introduces new forms of art that otherwise wouldn’t be widely accessible to the general public.
American Legion Memorial Park, located at Alverson Boulevard, is a four-acre park with plenty of excellent facilities.
With tennis courts, baseball diamonds, a playground, and a picnic area provided onsite, the park is perfect for enjoying some sunshine and getting active outdoors.
Another draw of this vivid park is the Evergreen Arboretum and Gardens, which allows guests to explore different plants and gardens.
Guests can also take in sweeping views of Everett’s bustling waterfront with Gedney (Hat), Whidbey, and Camano Islands visible from the hill overlooking Port Gardner Bay.
At American Legion Memorial Park, many activities are available, including basketball courts, golf courses, pickleball courts, and more.
Furthermore, signage onsite provides an in-depth explanation of the history behind this picturesque park, making it worth a visit to everyone of all ages.
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Grand Avenue Park is one of the most spectacular outdoor spaces the Puget Sound area has to offer.
Situated atop the cliffs overlooking Port Gardner, this five-acre oasis of well-manicured lawns and lush greenery in Grand Avenue provides breathtaking views.
For those who prefer convenience, there’s an accessible pedestrian bridge that provides access to the picturesque park.
Whether you take the steps or ramp overlooking beautiful evening lights each night, there’s something special to enjoy in Grand Avenue Park.
As a nod to its most famous past resident, Senator Scoop Jackson, the park also features areas where visitors can sit and reflect on his illustrious career, which got him on the shortlist as Vice-President for former President John F. Kennedy.
For those looking for more than just panoramic views, Grand Avenue Park also affords visitors rare glimpses into some stunning old-style American houses and their immaculately kept gardens.
Take your pet on an adventure to Loganberry Lane Park, a hidden gem tucked away at the end of the road.
This off-leash spot is nestled between Kasch Park and Paine Field in a quiet urban area.
Off-leash pathways lined with natural foliage lead visitors to the edge of the Walter E. Hall Golf Course, providing plenty of room for dogs to run around and play.
Loganberry Lane Park provides pet owners with the ultimate outdoor adventure.
While it’s only 0.2 acres, its forested pathways can provide your pup with plenty of space to explore.
As a bonus, the wilderness trails wind through lovely foliage surrounding the Walter E. Hall Gold Course, and there’s even a small meadow next to the entrance for some games of catch with your furry friend.
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With its stunning views of the mountains, mudflats, and marshes, Spencer Island Park is one of the best spots in the Snohomish River Estuary to spot waterfowl and ducks.
Spencer Island Park is the perfect destination for birdwatchers looking to get up close and personal with other small mammals and amphibians.
Nestled in 4th South East in Everett, the island is one of Washington State’s best-kept secrets on the Great Birding Trail.
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The trails around the island provide fantastic romantic landscape views, from lush green meadows to sparkling mountain passes.
Possession Sound also plays a significant part in the area’s unique atmosphere, providing a blend of saltwater and freshwater that invites an impressive variety of animals.
Put on those binoculars and head to Spencer Island Park to observe some amazing flora and fauna!
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Narbeck Wetland Sanctuary Park, situated on Seaway Boulevard, is the perfect place for city dwellers to enjoy nature.
Its 42.76-acre sanctuary offers two walking paths, a small loop trail, and a 1/2-mile interpretative trail around the perimeter with boardwalks, gravel, and dirt.
Visitors can take in views of birds and their environment via the Boardwalk Trail and then use picnic tables to take it all in with a snack or lunch.
There are also informational signs dotted along the trails that share conservation tips and interesting facts about the wildlife that inhabit this remarkable sanctuary.
Moreover, for those who prefer passive recreation, the Narbeck Wetland Sanctuary Park’s facilities provide plenty of options for bird-watching and lounging.
With plenty of space to explore, relax and enjoy some time away from it all—it’s no surprise why many visitors return here.
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Jetty Island Days, which happens from July 5 to Memorial Day, offer the perfect opportunity to explore Puget Sound’s longest sand shoreline.
This annual event allows locals and visitors to enjoy a slice of unspoiled paradise.
Take advantage of the free ferry that runs seven days a week during Jetty Island Days and get your boarding pass at Jetty Landing.
Once at Jetty Island, you may soak up the sunshine, paddle and swim in the shallow waters, or relax on its beautiful sandy shoreline.
Return passes can also be obtained for free on the island.
Visit for a day to see what you have been missing and explore everything Jetty Island has in store for you.
Explore the beautiful Green Lantern Park Trail for a lovely stroll around Silver Lake’s eastern shore.
The 0.9-acre path comprises a wooden track, a gravel path, and a smooth sidewalk.
Its northern end may be accessed from 19th Ave South East and Silver Lake Road.
Along the walk, interpretive markers identify the various species often seen in the area.
Grab your camera and take pictures of some of the amazing views along the trail before taking a break to admire its beauty from one of the benches nearby.
Green Lantern Park Trail is ideal for those who want to enjoy nature without venturing too far away from the city.
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The Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum is a fascinating place to learn about military history.
With its rotating exhibits from the US, UK, Germany, USSR, and Japan, there is always something new to see.
The Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum also has an extensive collection of animals that have participated in military warfare, unique animal items, and skydiving dogs.
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Embrace the study of warfare like never before with Why War Exhibit!
From families to neighborhood organizations and school groups, people can choose their educational experience through this exhibit’s interactive components.
Discover a wealth of knowledge on influential aspects such as Data Visualization Wall, Nuclear Heat Map, Atomic Heat Map, Chronicles of War, and even Atomic Bombs.
You can find the museum on 109th Street.
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Thornton A. Sullivan Park is the perfect recreational spot for those looking to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
This 35-acre park is located on Silver Lake Road and offers a wide variety of activities.
With crystal-clear waters, vibrant wildlife, and calming views of nature, this lake is perfect for a day outdoors—offering activities like swimming, boating, and fishing alongside more relaxed pursuits such as disc golfing or picnicking.
Not only can visitors enjoy all these activities, but they also have access to picnic shelters, restrooms, a playground, and forested trails.
Whether you’re looking to take a stroll or beat your best ping pong score, Thornton A Sullivan Park has something for you!
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Forest Park is the ideal getaway for family fun.
Here you can find a network of trails, lush foliage, and open expanses for picnicking.
Located on Park Road, it also has a long-standing history.
The city of Everett purchased Forest Park in 1894, with subsequent 80-acre and 20-acre purchases over time that expanded the park’s boundaries to Pigeon Creek.
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Forest Park is a beloved spot for outdoor activities and recreation, boasting an array of amenities that are sure to appeal to all kinds of visitors.
From basketball courts, horseshoe pits, and picnic shelters to meeting rooms—it has something for everyone!
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Everett is a great place to visit, especially for those looking for free activities.
From parks with an array of amenities, interpretative trails, stunning views, and outdoor activities, there truly is something here for everyone!
These parks offer the perfect opportunity to take in nature without having to venture too far away from the city—so why not explore all the free things to do in Everett, Washington?
With plenty of opportunities available at no cost, you can make unforgettable memories while bonding as a family or even just enjoying some alone time in this urban oasis.
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