Looking for places to see fall foliage in Seattle?
Although many Seattleites set off on hikes in one of our many nearby national or state parks to see fall foliage this time of year, not everyone is able or willing to do so. Luckily, you don’t have to leave the city at all to get some colorful fall photos. There are actually lots of places to see fall foliage in Seattle thanks in large part to our incredible city parks. So pack a picnic, grab your pumpkin spice latte and camera, and set out for a fall adventure that’s conveniently close to home.
Read on for our list of the best 10 places to see fall foliage in Seattle!
1. Washington Park Arboretum
In addition to the normal colorful foliage, Washington Park Arboretum is one of just three places where you can see golden larches in Seattle without having to drive out of the city for a hike. The other two places are Woodland Park (also the site of our city zoo) and Ravenna Park—but we personally love visiting the arboretum the most.
📍Address: 2300 Arboterum Drive E
🕙Hours: open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
2. Seattle Japanese Garden
While you’re at the arboretum, try to also check out the Japanese garden located there. Unlike the arboretum there is a small entrance fee ($10) but it’s worth it to see the fall colors. Keep in mind that no dogs or picnics are allowed, and that the parking lot gets crowded on weekends.
📍Where: 1075 Lake Washington Boulevard East, in the southern end of Washington Park Arboretum
🕙Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays)
3. Kubota Garden
This Japanese garden in Rainier Beach is larger than the one in the arboretum and free to the public. You’re also welcome to picnic there or bring your dog. It is open daily from sunrise to sunset. You’ll be able to see stunning fall colors all through October.
📍Where: 9817 55th Ave S
🕙Hours: open daily from sunrise to sundown
4. Green Lake
There’s nothing like taking a stroll on the three-mile path around Green Lake in autumn. The trees lining the lake explode with vibrant colors that are reflected in the water. There’s also a small coffee shack in the park serving hot drinks and snacks.
📍Where: 7201 East Green Lake Dr N
🕙Hours: open daily from sunrise to sunset
5. Fremont Canal Park
If you walk on the paved path along the Fremont Cut in the fall, you’ll be able to enjoy the bright yellow leaves of the trees lined up next to the canal. You can watch sailboats and rowers pass by, and on Sundays visit the Fremont Sunday Market.
📍Where: 199 N Canal St
🕙Hours: open daily from sunrise to sunset
6. Discovery Park
Discovery Park is beautiful in every season, but especially in the fall when the leaves change color. It is Seattle’s biggest city park so give yourself plenty of time to explore the many trails.
📍Where: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd
🕙Hours: daily from sunset to sunrise
7. Lincoln Park
Of course we had to include this park in West Seattle. Lincoln Park has 135 acres with forest trails, picnic tables, and a beach. The trees take on vibrant colors throughout the park every fall. Make sure to visit the Northwest Troll who lives in the park.
📍Where: 8011 Fauntleroy Way SW
🕙Hours: daily from sunrise to sunset
8. University of Washington
Although not a park, the University of Washington campus is one of the best places to see fall foliage in Seattle. Not only can you see the vibrant leaves as you wander across the bustling campus in the fall, but you’ll also get to enjoy some gorgeous architecture such as the Suzzallo Library.
📍Where: 1410 NE Campus Parkway
9. Lake Washington Boulevard
Go for a fall stroll or bike ride along the 8-mile Lake Washington Boulevard and you’ll get to enjoy a peaceful scene of fall foliage all along the edge of Lake Washington.
📍Where: Lake Washington Blvd.
10. Kerry Park
Fall is a great time to visit the iconic Kerry Park in Seattle for two reasons. One is that the summer crowd will be gone, and the second reason is that you’ll get to see some beautiful fall foliage enhancing one of the best views of Seattle.
📍Where: 211 W Highland Dr.
🕙Hours: daily from sunrise to sunset