(Art) Walk This Way

While Seattle has an abundance of museums that are worth any visitor’s time, the city also has a plethora of art walks—community events, where businesses display local art—that are perfect for admiring the creative scene while taking in the town’s diverse neighborhoods.

Pioneer Square hosts the biggest night on the monthly arts calendar: First Thursday. Established by local art dealers in 1981, it’s the longest-running art walk in the country. Pioneer Square’s First Thursday runs year-round, but from June to September, it also extends up to Pike Place Market. Additionally, some of Seattle’s most beloved museums—including Seattle Art Museum (1300 First Ave), Northwest African American Museum (2300 S Massachusetts St), and Henry Art Gallery (4100 15th Ave NE)—offer free admission on first Thursdays.

Capitol Hill Art Walk falls on the second Thursday of every month—and with more than 40 participating venues, there’s plenty to see. Also on second Thursdays, West Seattle Art Walk centers its arts celebration around the thoroughfare of California Avenue. Belltown Artwalk (Second Fridays) showcases local galleries and artists.

Other districts also host thriving art walks every month, including Fremont (First Fridays), Georgetown and Ballard (Second Saturdays), Queen Anne (Third Thursdays), and the University District (Third Fridays).