Fall in the South Puget Sound isn’t just a season—it’s an invitation to get outside, sip cider, and celebrate local traditions. From misty morning walks to pumpkins and golden larches, here’s your comprehensive guide to the most unforgettable fall activities.
1. Washington State Fair
Where: Puyallup Fairgrounds
Experience staples like carnival rides, live music, and iconic fair food (hello, Fisher scones!). The Fair is one of the region’s most beloved fall traditions—perfect for families and first-timers alike.
2. Pumpkin Patches Worth Visiting
Nothing says fall better than a pumpkin patch. These South Sound farms deliver more than just jack-o’-lantern potential:
- Schilter Family Farm (Olympia) — A perennial favorite with a sprawling pumpkin patch, challenging corn maze, hayrides, and everything in between. Their Fall Harvest Festival runs September 27–October 31, 2025 Schilter Family FarmExperience Olympia.
- Rutledge Family Farm — A charming Tumwater staple known for its corn maze; perfect for chasing down that perfect pumpkin.
- Mosby Farms (Puyallup) — A family favorite with great photo ops and a wide pumpkin selection.
- Thomasson Family Farms — Balanced between pumpkin picking and family-friendly fun—hay rides, play areas, and festive ambiance.
3. Apple Picking Adventures
Harvest crisp, local apples and take in some fresh air:
- Curran Apple Orchard Park (University Place) — This community-driven orchard offers a unique Adopt-a-Tree program. Public picking begins at the Community Harvest Day—Sunday, August 31, 2025, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.. Guests can pick from untaped trees only, are asked to bring their own bags, and are limited to two bags each to ensure availability for all Curranapppleorchard+2Curranapppleorchard+2ParentMap.
Tip: Always check orchard rules before heading out, especially for community-run spaces like Curran—picking from taped or signed “Do Not Pick” trees is prohibited.
4. Oktoberfests & Festive Fall Celebrations
Raise a stein and celebrate autumn with these regional festivals:
- Leavenworth Oktoberfest — Step into Bavarian charm the first three weekends of October in this picturesque mountain town.
- Puyallup Oktoberfest — Taking place at the Washington State Fairgrounds, this event blends local brews with lively music and fairground fun.
- Vera Project Great Pumpkin Beer Festival (Seattle Center) — A creative, indie-leaning festival showcasing over 80 pumpkin-infused and seasonal beers. It’s eclectic, local, and distinctly PNW in its approach.
5. Foggy Morning Walks
Autumn mornings in the South Sound often bring hauntingly beautiful fog—perfect for reflective walks:
- Tolmie State Park — A maze of fern-covered canyons leading to peaceful shoreline views.
- Sequalitchew Trail (DuPont) — Flat, forested, and serene, ending at water’s edge.
- Point Defiance Park (Tacoma) — Iconic trails with dramatic, misty waterfront views.
- Squaxin Park (Olympia) — Low-lying, coastal, and especially enchanting when cloaked in fog.
6. Fall Foliage & the Golden Larches
While our region is known for evergreens, a short drive east reveals a stunning fall spectacle:
- Mount Rainier & Eastside Cascades — Home to larches, a rare conifer that turns a brilliant gold before shedding its needles. These golden trees are one of the Pacific Northwest’s most striking autumn sights. Discover more via the [Washington State Parks guide to larches] (https://parks.wa.gov/about/news-center/field-guide-blog/where-larch-march-fall).
Autumn in the South Puget Sound = Local Traditions + Moody Beauty
From cider-scented mornings to golden mountain treks, South Puget Sound fall is a curated blend of community charm and natural wonder. Grab your sweater, lace up your boots—and make this season one to remember.
