Hey, fellow fall lovers! If you’re anything like me, this is the best time of year in the Pacific Northwest. The leaves are turning those gorgeous shades of gold and red, the air is crisp, and pumpkins are popping up everywhere. And, of course, Halloween is right around the corner, which means spooky fun is in full swing. Whether you're a PNW native or just passing through, I’ve got the lowdown on all the must-do events and adventures happening between now and October 31st.
Grab your cozy sweater and pumpkin spice latte, and let’s dive in!
1. Pumpkin Patches and Harvest Festivals
I don’t know about you, but one of my favorite fall traditions is hitting up a pumpkin patch. It’s not just about finding the perfect pumpkin—though that’s totally important—but also about soaking in all the festive fall fun, from hayrides to cider sipping.
- Roloff Farms Pumpkin Patch (Hillsboro, OR)
If you’re a fan of Little People, Big World (I totally binged it!), you have to check out Roloff Farms. Open through Halloween, it’s a full-on fall experience with pumpkin picking, a spooky forest, wagon tours, and adorable spots for Instagram-worthy pics. Perfect for a day trip with friends or family. - Carpinito Brothers Pumpkin Patch (Kent, WA)
Just a quick drive from Seattle, this one’s a classic. You’ve got a massive pumpkin patch, a corn maze that’ll test your navigation skills, hayrides, and even some farm animals to say hi to. It’s one of my faves for a laid-back fall day out! - Bauman’s Harvest Festival (Gervais, OR)
This place is a fall wonderland. We’re talking apple cannons, a giant slide, cider tastings, and one of the most epic corn mazes in Oregon. It’s perfect for families, but I’m not going to lie, I’ve had just as much fun going with friends for a weekend day trip.
2. Haunted Houses, Ghost Tours, and Spooky Experiences
Okay, I love a good scare. If you’re into haunted houses or ghost tours, the PNW has some seriously spooky spots that’ll get your adrenaline pumping.
- Seattle Haunted Trolley Tour (Seattle, WA)
This is one of the coolest ways to explore Seattle's darker side. You hop on an old-school trolley and roll through some of the city’s most haunted spots, including creepy cemeteries and eerie historic sites in Pioneer Square. The stories they tell will give you serious goosebumps. Perfect for a spooky date night! - Fear PDX (Portland, OR)
Fear PDX is the haunted house experience. Imagine walking through multiple haunted houses in one place—each with its own terrifying theme. I may or may not have screamed a few times (okay, a lot). But hey, that’s what makes it fun, right? Definitely check it out if you’re in Portland and up for a fright. - Georgetown Morgue Haunted House (Seattle, WA)
If you want to be really freaked out, head to the Georgetown Morgue. It’s said to be one of the scariest haunted houses in the region, and with good reason. The creepy backstory and insanely realistic set design will leave you shaking. Seriously, it’s that good. - Haunted Shanghai Tunnels Tour (Portland, OR)
This one’s a mix of spooky and fascinating. Portland’s Shanghai Tunnels are infamous for their dark history—think human trafficking and smuggling in the late 1800s. On this tour, you’ll walk through the eerie underground passages and hear about the ghosts that supposedly haunt them. It’s a must-do if you want a haunted experience with some real historical vibes.
3. Fall Foliage and Nature Walks
If you’re more into peaceful, nature-filled fall days, the PNW is straight-up magical right now. The forests are turning golden, and there’s nothing better than hiking under a canopy of vibrant fall leaves.
- Leavenworth Autumn Leaf Festival (Leavenworth, WA)
Leavenworth is basically a real-life storybook town, and in fall, it’s even more stunning. While the official Autumn Leaf Festival is over, the town stays in full fall mode with colorful leaves and Oktoberfest vibes. Perfect for a weekend getaway with great hiking and some of the best bratwurst outside of Germany! - Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area (OR/WA)
This place never gets old. The Columbia River Gorge is breathtaking year-round, but in the fall, the mix of waterfalls and fiery-colored trees is just next level. If you’re up for a hike, hit Dog Mountain or the Multnomah Falls area and prepare to be wowed. - Hoyt Arboretum (Portland, OR)
Need a fall escape without leaving the city? Hoyt Arboretum is a gem. Wander through miles of trails surrounded by trees from all over the world, showing off their best fall colors. It’s peaceful, it’s beautiful, and it’s right in Portland’s backyard. Definitely worth a stroll (or a few).
4. Halloween-Themed Events for All Ages
Whether you’re looking for something fun to do with the kiddos or you just want to dress up and party, there are some awesome Halloween events happening across the PNW.
- Zoo Boo at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium (Tacoma, WA)
This one’s super cute if you have kids—or even if you don’t and just love animals! On October 28-29, the zoo goes full Halloween with decorations, trick-or-treating stations, and adorable animals to see along the way. Plus, seeing little ones in costumes is always a win. - Killer Pumpkin Festival (Portland, OR)
Portland’s Rogue Ales hosts this wild pumpkin fest on October 28th, and it’s pretty much a blast for all ages. Pumpkin bowling? Check. Pumpkin beer? Check. Pumpkin carving? You bet. Go during the day with kids or swing by later when the beer kicks in for some adults-only fun.
5. Outdoor Adventures and Fall Hikes
For those who want to get out and explore nature before winter sets in, the PNW has some of the best fall hikes around. Crisp air, colorful leaves, and fewer crowds? Yes, please!
- Mount Rainier National Park (WA)
This time of year is perfect for a visit to Mount Rainier. While the higher elevations start to get snowy soon, the lower trails are still clear and stunning with fall colors. The Grove of the Patriarchs trail is one of my favorites—it’s an easy, gorgeous walk through ancient forests. - Silver Falls State Park (OR)
Silver Falls is a must-visit if you love waterfalls, and in fall, it’s straight-up magical. The Trail of Ten Falls takes you on a moderate hike where you’ll pass behind waterfalls and through a forest glowing with fall colors. It’s like walking in a fairy tale.
6. Local Food and Drink Festivals
Because let’s be real—fall is also about indulging in some seriously good food and drinks. Luckily, the PNW has plenty of fall festivals to satisfy those cravings.
- Halloween Pub Crawl (Bend, OR)
If you’re in Bend, this Halloween Pub Crawl is where it’s at. On October 28th, grab your costume and your crew, and hop between downtown bars for spooky cocktails and plenty of Halloween shenanigans. It’s the perfect way to let loose and celebrate the season with friends. - Fresh Hop Ale Festival (Yakima, WA)
Beer lovers, this one’s for you. Yakima is the hop-growing capital of the world, and on October 7th, they’re throwing a huge party to celebrate the fresh hop harvest. With over 40 breweries, live music, and delicious food, it’s a perfect fall outing for anyone who appreciates a good brew. - Cider Summit NW (Portland, OR)
Portland’s Cider Summit on October 28th is the place to be if you’re into cider. With tons of local and regional ciders to sample, plus food pairings and cozy fall vibes, it’s a great way to celebrate the season with a glass (or two) of the good stuff.
Embrace the Fall Spirit
The Pacific Northwest has it all this fall—whether you're looking to be spooked, take a gorgeous hike, or just enjoy some pumpkin-flavored everything. So grab your scarf, a warm drink, and go out and explore the magic of the season. You won’t regret it!
Checkout Our Features Experiences!
Want to make your fall adventures even more special? Let us at PNW Guides help you find the perfect experience. Click here to browse!
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