Seasons Served Here

We’re not saying Pierce County is the ultimate place to experience seasons on this planet of ours, but it’s got to be in the top 5 at least (a conservative guess). What makes the rotation of the Earth so appealing over here? From the wildflowers of spring to the fiery colors of autumn, you haven’t experienced the seasons until you see them reflected in the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. When you add our local festivals, parades, markets, farm activities, live music, and community events to the equation—what’s that? You’re already booking your trip? 

Whether you’re looking for something to do today or are planning a future Pacific Northwest adventure, this page has everything you need for the mood board.

AUTUMN: Fall foliage and harvest festivals

Was it Abraham Lincoln who said, “it’s not fall until you are eating an apple cider doughnut while standing in a pumpkin patch”? And as far as doughnut-frying pumpkin patches go, we have several. We also have lists of places to see the gorgeous fall leaves, drink award-winning seasonal beer and cider, and find family fun at local harvest celebrations. For the brave of heart, you can either get chased by pretend ghosts at haunted houses, or chase the real ones yourself at historic sites across Pierce County. Grab your cable knit sweater and a large squash-infused coffee! It’s time for Autumn in the South Sound.

Fall Farm Experiences for the Whole Family

• Knutson Farms, Sept 27- Oct 31
  Pumpkin patch, corn maze, wagon rides, animal barn, apple cannons, fresh doughnuts, and much more.
• Maris Farms, Sept 27-Oct 26
  Pumpkin patch, corn maze, trout fishing, gem mining, candy cannon, and a terrifying Haunted Woods Halloween experience!
• Spooner Farms, Sept 27-Oct 31
  Pumpkin patch, Wizard of Oz-themed corn maze, animal barn, pumpkin cannon
• And this is just the beginning. See our full list of recommended fall agrotourism destinations here!

Want to make a whole weekend out of a farm adventure? Check out our 3-day Happy Harvest Itinerary!

Get Outside

• See the fall foliage
  From leisurely park walks to mountaintops, here's where to get the most out of the fall colors.
• Autumn at Mt. Rainier National Park
  Tips for when to go, what to expect, and what to watch out for (hint: bears!)

Eat and Drink Fall

• Apple Mania
  Every way to pick, eat, mill, drink, and celebrate apples!
• Seasonal Beer & Cider
  Thirsty? These limited-edition beers and ciders are only available in the fall and winter. 

Halloween

• Haunted Houses and Spooky Scenes
  A complete breakdown of where to get scared senseless. Bring extra underwear!
• A Haunt for the Whole Family
  When a haunted house is too much for little Billy, we've got a full list of ideas for you.
• Dark Tourism: a 3-Day Itinerary
  Are ghosts real? Can't say for sure, but the goosebumps you'll get following this 3-day itinerary certainly are. 

Holiday Lights & Winter Cheer

• Fantasy Lights at Spanaway Lake.

• Santa Parade in Sumner.

• Steilacoom Tree Lighting & Holiday Market.
  CTA: See Holiday Events

Epic Outdoor Adventures

• Foothills Trail (fall foliage → frosty mornings).

• Mount Rainier (autumn hikes → winter snowshoeing).

• Crystal Mountain Gondola (colorful valleys → snowy peaks).
  CTA: Plan Your Adventure

Cozy Lodging, Served Daily

• Ashford & Elbe cabins — from autumn leaves to snowy lodge stays.

• Stormking Spa Cabins & Paradise Village — hot tubs + seasonal escapes.

• Steilacoom & University Place waterfront rentals — sunsets to snow-kissed mornings.
  CTA: Book Your Stay