Ask any American (especially those under 35) and they'll tell you we're living in hard times. A lot of people are out of work and everyone's on a tighter budget. But hey, just because you don't have a lot of cash to throw around doesn't mean you can't have a good time. With its mild weather, abundant character and accepting populace, Seattle is a great town to have fun on the cheap. Here are three things you can do for fun in the Emerald City without dipping too deep (or dipping at all) into your pockets.

When people think of Seattle, they usually think of the Space Needle and the downtown skyline, but there's a lot to offer on the city's north side. The town of Fremont is especially good for no-money laughs. In the warm spring and summer months, there's nothing quite like absorbing the weird of Fremont. A good place to start is Gasworks Park, a genuinely whimsical gem overlooking Lake Union. Though one would think that the park's centerpiece is the old, rusty gas plant covered in graffiti, experienced folk know that the real draw is the impressive, ever-green hill in the middle. It's a great place to catch one of the best views in all of Seattle and it's a favorite kite-flying location practically year-round. Afterward, a visit to the giant, bronze statue of Vladimir Lenin on 36th Avenue makes for good people-watching. If you're willing to shell out a few dollars, you can get a gelato from a nearby vendor. If it's raining, the famous Fremont Troll (located conveniently on Troll Street) provides the shelter of an overpass.

If sight-seeing isn't your thing, you might consider indulging your creative impulses by doing some impromptu street performance in designated public spaces. According to a 2009 decision by the 9th District Federal Appeals Court, the restrictions traditionally placed upon buskers in areas like Seattle Center have all but been lifted. Until then, street performers were required to keep their work within certain areas of public space, acquire a permit, wear a badge and even refrain from pursuing tips from their audiences. Thanks to a seven-year legal battle spearheaded by balloon animal artist Michael Berger, public spaces like Seattle Center are fair game for street performers. So, feel free to bring your instrument, dance routine, or other talent to the Space Needle and see if you can make a few bucks for more expensive excursions.

If you don't feel like singing your heart out for your next meal, you can always take advantage of the free samples given out by vendors at Pike's Place Market. Sure, if you've got some cash to throw around, please support the local businesspeople who keep booths at the market. If you're short on dough, there's nothing wrong with enjoying a free hazelnut, slice of honeycrisp apple or bite of smoked salmon. If you still feel guilty about taking something for nothing, you can always make sure to talk up the products to prospective customers.

Seattle is a vibrant, varied city with a lot to offer to the adventurous impoverished among us. All it takes to have a good time on little to no dime is a bit of know-how and a mindset that derives fun from simple pleasures.