End of Summer in Seattle: Things to Do in August

Some of my favorite choices are a mix of special events and simple outdoor outings. Consider the Evergreen State Fair, Seafair, a farmers market morning, Golden Gardens, Discovery Park, a ferry ride, a splash park or an outdoor movie.

You really do not need to fill every day with a major attraction. August is also a great month for a picnic, an evening by Lake Washington or simply staying outside until sunset.

Yes. August is one of the easiest times of year to build a Seattle itinerary around outdoor activities. Families can combine parks, beaches, ferries, markets and seasonal events without needing to spend the entire day indoors.

It is also a nice time for visiting families because the long summer days give you more flexibility to fit several activities into one day without feeling rushed.

Seattle has plenty of options that do not require an expensive ticket. Good choices include:

• Golden Gardens or Alki Beach
• Discovery Park
• Green Lake
• Neighborhood playgrounds
• Spray parks and seasonal wading pools
• Farmers markets
• Outdoor concerts and movies
• A picnic near Lake Washington

Even a ferry ride can be a relatively simple outing if you walk on instead of bringing the car.

Seattle summer days can be warm, but evenings near the water often cool down. I would usually bring sunscreen, water, sunglasses and an extra layer even when the afternoon forecast looks beautiful.

For outdoor movies or evening events, a sweatshirt or light jacket and a blanket can make a big difference once the sun goes down.

August weather is not always predictable. On very hot days, consider shifting your plans toward water activities, shaded parks or morning and evening outings.

Wildfire smoke can occasionally affect air quality in the Puget Sound region as well. If conditions look hazy, check the current air-quality forecast before spending several hours outside, especially with young children or anyone who is sensitive to smoke.

It depends on the event. Beaches, parks and most farmers markets do not require tickets, but fairs, concerts, special performances and some outdoor movie programs may have admission charges or advance reservations.

For a major August event, I recommend checking the official website before leaving home so you can confirm the current schedule, parking information and ticket requirements.

Yes. August is one of the most enjoyable times to visit local farmers markets because both year-round and seasonal markets are operating. It is also peak season for many Washington fruits, vegetables and flowers.

Market days and hours can change, so check the individual market schedule before heading out.

Many do. Parks, beaches, ferry trips and farmers markets can still be wonderful in September, and some late-summer fairs and festivals continue through Labor Day.

The transition into September can actually be a nice time to keep enjoying Seattle outdoors, especially once school starts and some popular places become a little quieter during the week.