In an average year, the best time to see Seattle fall color is the last week of September and first week of October. In the foothills and mountain areas, foliage peaks about one to two weeks later than at lower elevations. Depending on weather conditions, the fall season in Seattle can begin earlier, in mid-September … [Read more...] about 13 best nature walks to see Seattle fall color
Sports & Recreation
Our big list of Washington State ski ticket discounts
Washington Ski Season typically runs November-March. We usually update ski lift ticket discounts beginning in April when the current season ends, and operators announce their prices for the next season. There are 13 Washington State ski areas, 10 in the West and Central parts of the state and 3 in the East: Nine … [Read more...] about Our big list of Washington State ski ticket discounts
Little Champions bonsai exhibit in Amazon Seattle Spheres (reservation required)
Washington’s giant coniferous trees, towering over the Olympic Peninsula, are impressive individuals figuring the lush forest ecosystems that epitomize “The Evergreen State.” These "Champions" are among the largest living trees on the planet. However, the popularity of our country’s biggest, oldest trees can become … [Read more...] about Little Champions bonsai exhibit in Amazon Seattle Spheres (reservation required)
Wooden Boat Festival in Port Townsend
The first Wooden Boat Festival (WBF) in North America in 1978 at Port Townsend eventually joined with Northwest Maritime Center in 2005 to continue to engage and educate people in traditional maritime culture and to inspire people to adventure on the sea--the most powerful teacher you may ever know! Today, the Port … [Read more...] about Wooden Boat Festival in Port Townsend
Canoe & kayak rentals at UW Seattle
The UW Waterfront Activities Center (WAC) at the University of Washington in Seattle is located directly behind Husky Stadium. From spring through fall, they rent kayaks and canoes to paddle around the Union Bay Natural Area and Montlake Cut to admire the wildlife: bald eagles, osprey (also known as seahawks), and … [Read more...] about Canoe & kayak rentals at UW Seattle
Free summer bowling for kids (and their adults)
Bowling centers, schools, and other community organizations have worked together to provide affordable bowling to kids and families. It's a great summer activity designed by bowling centers to give back to the community and to provide a safe, secure, and fun way for kids to spend time this summer. About … [Read more...] about Free summer bowling for kids (and their adults)
Free swim lessons (ages 6-16) at Seattle beaches
Seattle Parks and Recreation offers safe, lifeguarded beaches at nine beaches around the city: Green Lake, Madison Park, Madrona, Magnuson Park, Matthews Beach, Mount Baker Park Beach, Pritchard Island Beach, and Seward Park Beach. It is strongly recommended that you swim only where and when lifeguards are … [Read more...] about Free swim lessons (ages 6-16) at Seattle beaches
Annual bird count events
Bird populations are always shifting and changing. Bird count events help collect data that highlight changes in bird populations, such as the effects of warm weather on their migration patterns and other phenomena. Several important bird count events held throughout the year. Anyone can participate in these events, … [Read more...] about Annual bird count events
Free water safety guides & Washington boating laws
If you plan to get out on any of the many waterways in Seattle and around the Puget Sound region, be sure you are prepared. Whether you will be in a motor boat, sailboat, canoe, kayak, or paddleboard, or enjoying lakes and rivers as a swimmer or water skier, be sure to get familiar with Washington Boating Laws and … [Read more...] about Free water safety guides & Washington boating laws
Earth Day events in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area
Earth Day events in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area include conservation, recycling, and other activities designed to educate us on the benefits of protecting our natural resources through mindful living. Many events are free, but many require that you register in advance. We might also include events that have a small … [Read more...] about Earth Day events in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area
Summer camps & school break camps
We've updated our summer camps list for 2022 and indicated those that are cancelled and those accepting registration. There is a lot of variety in summer camps schedules and activities in the Seattle-Tacoma metro region. There are day camps, weekly camps, half-day camps, full day camps, and overnight camps. There are … [Read more...] about Summer camps & school break camps
5 best things to do at Discovery Park in Seattle
At 534 acres, Discovery Park is the largest park in Seattle. Located in the Magnolia neighborhood, the park sits on a bluff overlooking Puget Sound. It is an easy getaway spot in the city with something for everyone. Here you’ll find forests, meadows, sea cliffs, tidal beaches, freshwater streams, and sand dunes, plus … [Read more...] about 5 best things to do at Discovery Park in Seattle
Kids can Try Hockey Free in the Puget Sound region
USA Hockey provides the foundation for the sport of ice hockey in America, helping young people become leaders—even Olympic heroes—while promoting a lifelong love of the sport. USA Hockey’s primary emphasis is on the support and development of grassroots hockey programs that provide opportunities for players of all … [Read more...] about Kids can Try Hockey Free in the Puget Sound region
2022 free park entrance days in Washington State
Take advantage of free entrance days in National Parks and Washington State Parks throughout the year. Mark your calendar for these fee-free days. Plan an outing with family or friends at the nearest park. Or, get away to another park around Washington State. Short History of Our National Parks In 1872 in the … [Read more...] about 2022 free park entrance days in Washington State
Big Seattle Boat Show
The Seattle Boat Show is the West Coast's Largest Boat Show featuring more than 1,000 recreational watercraft, from stand-up paddleboards to superyachts and everything in between. The Boat Show also has acres of accessories, all the latest gear, and free boating & fishing seminars, including low-tech and high-tech … [Read more...] about Big Seattle Boat Show
Our big list of boat shows & waterfront festivals
Seattle is nearly surrounded by fresh and salt water. This city is inextricably linked to fishing and maritime industries, pleasure boating, and waterfront activities. Residents in the Puget Sound region enjoy a wide variety of activities on the water, in motorboats, sailboats, and a wide variety of paddle … [Read more...] about Our big list of boat shows & waterfront festivals
7 affordable winter sports on ice and snow
Here is a list of winter sports you can enjoy in Washington State, including popular sports such as skiing, ice skating, and snowboarding. Our list starts with indoor ice sports, followed by outdoor snow sports. In addition, we list several other fun activities that appeal to a wide variety of recreational enthusiasts, … [Read more...] about 7 affordable winter sports on ice and snow
Center for Wooden Boats, Seattle and Camano Island
The Center for Wooden Boats (CWB) is a non-profit organization that celebrates the rich and varied watercraft heritage that is a vital part of the history of Seattle and the Puget Sound region. At this hands-on maritime museum, the exhibits are on the water and the public is encouraged to use them. The organization … [Read more...] about Center for Wooden Boats, Seattle and Camano Island
Washington State parks & public lands open for recreation
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages more than 160 recreation sites and 1,200 miles of trail. Campsites are available first come, first served at no additional cost for vehicles with a valid Discover Pass, making it easier than ever to find your new favorite outdoor … [Read more...] about Washington State parks & public lands open for recreation
30 great park trails for kids in the Puget Sound region
Here's a list of parks throughout the Puget Sound region that feature easy nature walks that are great places to take your kids. These park trails make for pleasant day trips, weekend outings, or as part of a long summer vacation. These kid-friendly trails are especially nice destinations for families or anyone … [Read more...] about 30 great park trails for kids in the Puget Sound region
Popular King County parks for day hikes
King County park system covers 26,000 acres of public lands. That's an unlimited amount of awesome. The award-winning parks and recreation division offers recreational experiences for every interest, including 200 parks, 175 miles of regional trails, and 180 miles of backcountry trails, plus ballfields, playgrounds and … [Read more...] about Popular King County parks for day hikes
Free trail maps for running or walking
Listed below are free regional and Seattle trail maps for running and walking, whether you want ideas for a regular fitness program to enjoy all year long, or just a casual family outing or romantic stroll in a nearby park. The information includes a variety of downloadable and printable maps, online … [Read more...] about Free trail maps for running or walking
Free Skateboard Parks in Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, and Redmond
Listed below are Seattle skateboard parks, roughly in order from north to south throughout the city. After the Seattle list, you will find a list of skateboard parks in surrounding cities throughout the Puget Sound region. Seattle skateboard parks Seattle, Dahl (Waldo J.) Playfield, 7700 25th Ave. NE … [Read more...] about Free Skateboard Parks in Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, and Redmond
Golf course discounts in the Pacific Northwest
If you love golf, playing in the Puget Sound region has some challenges. First of all, golf is a pricy sport. But, there are some deals to be had. Then, there is the weather. Tips for golfing in Pacific Northwest weather When you schedule tee times during cold or rainy weather, be sure to warm up before you … [Read more...] about Golf course discounts in the Pacific Northwest
Seattle snow day sledding tips
Snow parks in the Cascade Mountains are a great choice during winter. But on the rare occasion the Seattle area gets enough flurries for a snow day, local kids take to any of the hundreds of parks and green spaces around the region for some sledding fun. Tips for sledding safely These are some good rules to ensure … [Read more...] about Seattle snow day sledding tips
