Seattle’s 18 Fall Must-Dos For Your Bucket List


It’s the perfect time to explore, as the city comes alive with its fall festivities and unique seasonal experiences.

Seattle in the fall offers a remarkable array of activities beyond the usual tourist spots. From local markets to hidden gems in the city’s diverse neighborhoods, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Take a Walk Through Kubota Garden

Kubota Garden is a gem in Seattle’s Rainier Beach neighborhood. This stunning 20-acre Japanese garden was created by Fujitaro Kubota in 1927.

In the fall, the garden transforms into a breathtaking spectacle of vibrant red, orange, and yellow foliage. Visitors can explore winding paths, serene ponds, and charming bridges.

Kubota Garden offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a contemplative moment surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Sip on Fresh Hop Beers

As the fall season hits Seattle, fresh hop beers become a must-try experience. Local breweries bring out their unique takes, offering an array of flavors straight from the hop fields.

Residents and visitors alike head to spots like Fremont Brewing and Cloudburst Brewing. These places boast seasonal brews that highlight the freshest hops.

Beer enthusiasts revel in the crisp, aromatic notes that define fresh hop beers. This is the perfect time to support local brewers and enjoy a pint of autumn bliss.

Hike at Discovery Park

Discovery Park is the largest green space in Seattle, perfect for a fall hike. The trails wind through forests, meadows, and dramatic cliffs overlooking Puget Sound.

During autumn, the foliage bursts with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. The air feels crisp and invigorating. Wildlife watchers might spot bald eagles or harbor seals near the beach.

For an unforgettable view, he suggests heading to the West Point Lighthouse. The trails are well-marked, making it easy for everyone to enjoy.

Sip on Apple Cider & Pick a Pumpkin At Nearby Farms

Fall in Seattle means crisp air and vibrant foliage, perfect for visiting local farms. There’s nothing like sipping freshly-pressed apple cider at one of these charming spots. The tangy-sweet flavor is the essence of autumn.

Pumpkin picking is another delightful activity. Families and friends can wander through pumpkin patches, choosing the perfect gourds for carving and decoration. These farms often offer hayrides and corn mazes, adding to the fun.

Supporting local farms also means enjoying farm-fresh produce and products. It’s a wholesome, enjoyable way to spend a fall day.

Check out our favorite local pumpkin farms.

Attend the Seattle Haunted Soiree

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Source: Haunted Soiree Website

Fall in Seattle brings a special thrill at the Seattle Haunted Soiree. This annual event attracts those who enjoy spine-tingling experiences and mysterious encounters.

Attendees can expect eerie decorations and captivating performances that set the spooky mood. From ghostly apparitions to interactive horror installations, every moment is designed to give visitors a chillingly good time.

Costumes are highly encouraged, adding to the immersive atmosphere. Whether you’re a fan of the macabre or just love a good scare, the Seattle Haunted Soiree offers a unique way to celebrate the fall season.

Trick or Treat 5k

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Enjoy the excitement of Seattle’s Trick or Treat 5k, a festive and fun way to spend a fall day.

Participants can dress up in their favorite Halloween costumes. This makes the race a colorful and spirited event for all ages.

The course meanders through scenic areas, offering stunning views of autumn foliage. It’s a great opportunity to take in the seasonal beauty.

Families and friends are encouraged to join, making it a lively social event. Plus, there are often treats available for participants at the end.

Attend a Film at the Grand Illusion Cinema

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Nestled in Seattle’s University District, Grand Illusion Cinema offers a unique experience for film lovers. This small, independent theater showcases a diverse selection of films, from indie gems to classic revivals.

The intimate setting and historic ambiance make watching a movie here special. It’s a welcome change from the usual megaplex experience. Visitors will appreciate the retro charm and dedicated staff who passionately promote cinema culture.

As the leaves fall and temperatures drop, escaping into the cozy confines of Grand Illusion Cinema is a delightful way to spend an evening. The theater’s curated film selections can introduce audiences to something new or reignite their love for a well-loved classic.

Get Spooked at a Haunted House

Seattle’s haunted houses bring chills and thrills every fall. From old mansions to repurposed warehouses, each haunted house offers unique scares.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, these haunted attractions are a must-visit:

Friends can challenge each other to brave the darkest corridors. Make unforgettable fall memories by facing your fears together.

Visit Fremont Sunday Market

Nestled in the vibrant Fremont neighborhood, the Fremont Sunday Market is a must-visit for those looking to experience Seattle like a local.

Open year-round, rain or shine, this eclectic market features an array of vendors. Visitors can find everything from handmade crafts to vintage treasures.

Food lovers will delight in the diverse selection of food trucks and stalls offering global cuisine. It’s a perfect spot to grab a bite while exploring.

The market’s lively atmosphere, complete with live music and street performers, makes it a fantastic place to spend a Sunday. Strolling through, you’ll feel the unique charm of Seattle.

Experience the Fall Foliage at Washington Park Arboretum

Autumn in Seattle offers a spectacular display of colors at the Washington Park Arboretum. Visitors can stroll along peaceful pathways surrounded by vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves.

The arboretum spans 230 acres, providing a vast area to explore. Various species of deciduous trees make every walk unique and breathtaking.

Don’t forget your camera. The arboretum’s foliage offers endless opportunities for stunning photos. Enjoy a serene and colorful retreat right in the heart of Seattle.

Experience First Thursday Art Walk

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Every first Thursday of the month, Seattle’s Pioneer Square transforms into an art lover’s paradise. Galleries open their doors, showcasing the vibrant works of local artists. Strolling through the streets, he or she can discover unique sculptures, paintings, and installations.

Live music often fills the air, adding to the cultural experience. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet artists and even purchase one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just curious, there’s something for everyone at the First Thursday Art Walk.

Explore Local Shops at Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is a gem waiting to be explored. The fall season brings a cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect time to visit.

From handmade crafts to unique antiques, the market’s local shops offer a treasure trove of finds. Each store tells its own story through curated collections.

Don’t miss out on the vibrant produce stands. The mix of autumnal colors and fresh scents create an immersive experience. The market is buzzing with energy and local flavor. Visitors can support small businesses while picking up one-of-a-kind items.

Take a Ghost Tour in Pioneer Square

For a spine-chilling adventure, visitors should explore the haunted history of Seattle with a ghost tour in Pioneer Square. These tours reveal eerie tales of the city’s past, featuring haunted buildings and spooky stories.

Guides share engaging narratives about mysterious events and ghostly encounters. It’s an exciting way to experience Seattle’s oldest neighborhood with a supernatural twist.

Tours to Check Out:

Go on a Mushroom Foraging Tour

Fall in Seattle provides the perfect weather for a mushroom foraging tour. The Pacific Northwest’s damp climate fosters a rich diversity of fungi. Participants can explore forests, learning to identify different types of mushrooms.

Guided tours are available, led by experienced foragers. These experts share tips on safe foraging and sustainable practices. Attendees are often surprised by the variety of edible mushrooms found in the region.

Mushroom foraging is not only educational but also a fun outdoor activity. Participants enjoy the thrill of discovering hidden treasures among the forest floor. Plus, they might even take home fresh, wild mushrooms for a unique culinary experience.

Tours to Check Out:

Watch a Halloween Burlesque Show

Seattle’s nightlife comes alive in the fall with thrilling Halloween burlesque shows. These performances combine the allure of classic burlesque with spooky, creative themes.

The shows feature talented dancers, live music, and elaborate costumes. It’s an intimate and engaging experience that brings a unique twist to Halloween celebrations.

He or she will find these shows at various venues around the city. It’s a memorable way to enjoy Seattle’s artistic side during the season.

Shows to Check Out:

Partake in a Halloween Bar Crawl

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Get ready for an unforgettable night filled with spooky fun as Seattle’s Halloween Bar Crawl kicks into gear. They can hop from one eerie-themed bar to another, each offering its unique take on Halloween festivities. Costumes are a must, enhancing the festive spirit.

Participating bars often feature special drinks, haunting decorations, and Halloween games. The atmosphere is electric, with people sharing a collective excitement for the spooky season. It’s a fantastic way to explore Seattle’s nightlife in a unique and thrilling manner.

Organized routes and maps make it easy to navigate between bars. These events are popular, so expect lively crowds and a vibrant, community feel. Halloween Bar Crawls in Seattle are an excellent opportunity to enjoy the city’s nightlife while celebrating the holiday in a fun and festive way.

The Pumpkin Beer Festival

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The Pumpkin Beer Festival is a must-visit for those in Seattle during the fall. Held at Elysian Brewing, this event showcases a wide array of pumpkin-flavored beers, crafted by local breweries.

Guests can expect lively music, creative costumes, and a vibrant atmosphere. Varieties range from spiced ales to barrel-aged brews, offering something for every palate.

The festival also features delicious food options to complement the beer tasting. Food trucks and local vendors serve seasonal dishes and snacks, adding to the festive experience.

Don’t forget to participate in the costume contest! Many attendees don creative pumpkin-themed outfits, adding a whimsical touch to the event. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a crisp fall day in Seattle.

Emerald City Trapeze

Carnevolar Website

Seattle’s Emerald City Trapeze Arts offers a thrilling Halloween experience that combines aerial acrobatics with spooky entertainment. Each year, the troupe transforms their venue into a haunted wonderland, complete with eerie decorations and spine-chilling music.

The Halloween shows feature a mix of high-flying trapeze acts, silks, and other aerial performances, all choreographed to create a mesmerizing spectacle. Performers don elaborate costumes, adding a theatrical flair that transports the audience into a world of dark enchantment.

The atmosphere is electric, filled with gasps and applause as acrobats defy gravity with their daring feats.

About the author

My name is April, and I’m a Seattle-based writer, traveler, and foodie. I started this travel guide blog to share my passion for Seattle with fellow travelers and locals alike.

Whether you’re looking for the best coffee shops, the trendiest restaurants, or the most scenic hiking trails, I’ve got you covered.

When I’m not writing or exploring Seattle, you can find me watching movies with my husband, reading, or gardening with my dog in the backyard.

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