Cheap Spring Break Getaway

Are you one of the many struggling students at SCC? Do you have barely enough money to cover tuition, books, gas, food, and rent? When the weekend comes around, and you can barely afford to have fun, we know how you feel. Many of us are in the same boat.

While your friends may be flying to Hawaii, Florida, or Cancun for vacation, you’re stuck at home in the great rainy Northwest. Spring Break is nearly here and if you’re still wondering how to have fun when you’re broke, we’ve got answers.

The places below are my four favorite free attractions in Seattle. Check them out for some inexpensive spring break memories, and remember to bring a camera. Whether you’ve been in the Seattle area for 15 years or 15 days, these are a few sights that make Seattle a unique place to live.

The Fremont Troll

In 1990 an 18-foot-tall statue of a troll was created under the Aurora Bridge. When I say 18 feet-tall, that is just measuring his head and shoulders. This short description does not do him any justice. The troll was created by four Seattle artists for the Fremont Arts Council. It is made from rebar, wire, and 2 tons of concrete. For years, this sight has been one of Seattle’s hidden treasures. Just wait until you see what is under his left hand! He is located on N. 36th St.

The Ballard Locks

Known to locals as the Ballard locks, its official name is The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. The locks won a 2003 Best Free Attraction award from Citysearch Seattle. If you are looking for relaxation this is a great place to find it. Originally created in 1911 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the locks raise and lower water levels to allow boats into and out of Lake Union.

After watching the enormous boats being raised or lowered by the locks, take a walk over to the fish ladder. The fish ladder and observation center allow visitors to watch the returning salmon swim and learn about the locks. They are located at: 3015 NW 54th St. Seattle, WA, 98107.

The International Fountain

This huge fountain was originally constructed for the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair. The original fountain was replaced with the current one in 1995. Your experience will depend on what time you visit the fountain. If you visit during daylight hours, it is a great place to have a lunch and play in the water streams. During the night, the fountain lights up with different colors, and shoots tall streams of water. Sometimes the water even flows along to music accompanying. It is located in the Seattle Center at 305 Harrison Street Seattle, WA 98109.

Gasworks Park

This park offers a beautiful view of the Seattle skyline and Lake Union. While it’s an extremely popular place to go on the Fourth of July, or New Year’s Eve to watch the fireworks, this park is a great place to visit year round. After you enjoy the view, walk around and check out the old machinery from the 1920s. Look for the winding walkway to the top of the small hill. Once you reach the top, you will see a huge artistic sun dial. This is a great place to bring some food and a blanket for a picnic. Gasworks Park is located right below Wallingford, on the north shore of Lake Union. For more detailed directions call 206-684-4075. To see a virtual tour of the park visit: http://freespace.virgin.net/electric.dreams/panor/qtgasworks.html.