Where to See Fall Color in and Around Seattle

One day you’re swimming in Lake Union, slathering on sunscreen every 30 minutes, and suddenly everything changes. The weather starts to cool off, coffee orders switch from iced to hot, and Seattle slowly turns from a luscious green forest to a colorful autumn masterpiece. With old-growth maple, ash, aspen, and other deciduous trees, the city changes into a cozy fall dream. While you could enjoy the fall colors from just about anywhere, here are some spots that are out-of-this-world amazing. 

Volunteer Park

Tucked away atop Capitol Hill, Volunteer Park is one of the easiest places to enjoy the fall foliage. The well-manicured park is gifted with old-growth trees that fill the park with color. You’ll also find blooming dahlias all over thanks to the ongoing efforts of the Puget Sound Dahlia Association. 

Discovery Park

Discovery Park is so large that something is always in season. In the forested areas, you’ll find colorful leaves and the sounds of birds chirping in the trees. You’ll also find open meadows, sand dunes, and tidal beaches adorned with deciduous trees as well. 

Kubota Garden

Kubota Garden is arguably the most beautiful place to see fall foliage in Seattle. This Japanese Garden in the Mt. Rainier neighborhood is filled with Japanese Maple and ginkgo that fill the area with vibrant reds and deep yellows. Paired with the reflection ponds and quaint trails, you’ll be transformed into another world. 

Green Lake

Fall color is the perfect excuse to head over to the Green Lake neighborhood. This enormous lake is surrounded by a park with large old-growth trees and a quaint neighborhood dotted with brick buildings and cozy cottages. Take a stroll with a cup of joe and enjoy the views. 

Washington State Arboretum

Tucked in between the historic mansions on Capitol Hill and the Waters of Lake Washington lies an expansive preserve filled with all of the trees us Washingtonians love. In the autumn, the arboretum comes alive with color and you’ll be able to enjoy all sorts of unique and rare plants, some found nowhere else in the Pacific Northwest. 

Autumn in Seattle never fails to inspire. Come stay at Shafer Baillie Mansion Bed & Breakfast in the heart of Capitol Hill and take in the fall. Enjoy being in the heart of the city and walking distance to parks, restaurants, coffee shops, and more!