8 Ideas for Having an Awesome Autumn in Bellevue
Leaves are turning, nights are getting longer, and PSL lovers are rejoicing. It’s officially fall—and we think all Washingtonians will agree that the Pacific Northwest is one of the most beautiful places to be during autumn.
If you want to get out there and enjoy the season’s perfect weather, but aren’t sure where to start, we’ve got some inspiring ideas. Bellevue and Seattle have lots to offer, and fall brings special opportunities to explore and try new things. Read on for some of our favorite autumn activities in western Washington!
Start off with fun 2017 Halloween activities in Bellevue
‘Tis the season for a little spooky fun—and Bellevue has a lot to offer for kids and adults alike. Here are a few must-dos for Halloween.
1. Get your adrenaline going with a Zip Scare Tour
This nighttime zip line adventure offers a one-of-a-kind view of Bellevue—and swinging through the trees in the dark will certainly get your heart racing. The only ambient light will come from glow sticks on platforms and attached to your harness, adding to the creepy atmosphere as you make your way over a suspension bridge and three different zip lines. This tour is only offered October 13th – 28th, so if you want to experience a unique adventure, make sure to grab your tickets now.
2. Indulge in food and fun at the Family Halloween Party
Take a bite out of Halloween by heading down to Little Italy on Saturday, October 28th between 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM. There you’ll find a family-friendly Halloween party at Maggiano’s, with pumpkin carving, costume contests, candy apple decorating, and a delicious buffet-style lunch. (If you’re kid-free, they will also be hosting a Halloween Murder Mystery Dinner on the 27th!)
3. Test your bravery at Nightmare at Beaver Lake
If you love the thrills and chills of a good scare, it’s likely you already have a haunted house on your Halloween bucket list. But what about a haunted hike through the woods? A 20 minute car ride is all it takes to transport yourself to the horrors played out at Beaver Lake in Sammamish between October 13th – 31st.
Keep the kids entertained all season long
As the weather changes, it’s normal for young ones to go a little stir crazy the longer they’re cooped up. But the fun doesn’t have to end with summer—and Bellevue and surrounding areas boast a ton of great events and activities throughout cooler months.
4. Check out one (or many!) of the great local fall festivals
We’re lucky to boast a large number of fall festivals in the region, with dates and locations to fit even the busiest of schedules. Kids will love tasting fall treats, picking out pumpkins, getting their faces painted, figuring out a corn maze, or taking a hay ride.
Here are just a few of our favorites:
- Craven Farm Fall Festival: October 5 – 31
- Fox Hollow Farms Fall Festival: October 6 – 25
- Remlinger Farms Fall Harvest Festival: October 7 – 29
- Harvest Festival at Carnation Farms: October 14 – 15 & 21 – 22
5. While away a rainy day at local exhibits
A dreary weekend can put a damper on plans, but that doesn’t mean you have to be stuck inside the house. The KidsQuest Children’s Museum is a great way to enjoy a fun, educational outing—and they’re constantly adding new activities to their calendar. You can also check out Bellevue Arts Museum’s calendar, which often featured family-friendly exhibits, events, and talks.
October is officially Tacoma’s 16th annual Tacoma Arts Month, bringing with it a goldmine of community-hosted arts events, exhibits, and workshops to explore—many of which are free and appropriate for youngsters.
6. Treat your little Broadway buffs
If your child is a lover of musicals or live shows, a night at the theater can be a fun family treat. Into the Woods is running through October 22nd at the Francis J. Gaudette Theatre, or you can make a night of it by hitting the town for a tasty meal and heading over to a show at one of Seattle’s great theaters.
Go on an all-day culinary adventure
With high season drawing to a close, it’s the perfect time to try out some of the area’s most popular restaurants, breweries, and markets without having to battle too many crowds. Plus, spending a chilly day with great food and fantastic company is a simple pleasure that shouldn’t be overlooked.
7. Browse Pike Place Market
Before the cold sets in, visit Pike Place Market for a day of exploring and stocking up on your favorite Northwestern goodies. Grab a snack, splurge on a new fall accessory or accent piece, or take your time handpicking the perfect fresh seafood.
8. Plan a date night
Ring up your babysitter and take your partner out for a night on the town. Bellevue and Seattle boast some superb restaurants; close your eyes, point to a map, and you’ll likely find some delicious fare. But if you’re unsure where to start, here are a few spots to consider:
- Visit Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar to enjoy freshly and expertly prepared seafood.
- Try the low-key, tasty, caribbean sandwiches at Un Bien.
- Indulge in a delicious steak dinner John Howie Steak.
- Revisit Hitchcock (or give it a try for the first time) and try a luxurious take on regional favorites
9. Finish up with a nightcap
Depending on your personal tastes, there are a number of great local places to warm up with an adult beverage or two. Stick close to home and grab a tasty brew from the Bellevue Brewing Distillery or split a bottle of your favorite red at Bottlehouse.
We hope we’ve given you a few ideas about how to enjoy yourself this fall—and we’d love a little inspiration ourselves! Comment below with your favorite things to do in Bellevue.