The hidden jewel of Rainier Beach, Kubota Garden is the loveliest way for families in south Seattle to enjoy the fall colors. Japanese maples are the marquee star of this autumn show, and Kubota Garden has over 140 different varieties. Kids will love the hidden waterfall and fish pond, and you’ll appreciate the easy (free) parking and relaxed vibe. Kubota Garden is free to all, from sunrise to sunset, every day of the year.

The name says it all, it's the Arboretum! Of course they would have some of the most spectacular fall colors in the heart of the city. Bring the bikes and a picnic lunch to cruise around the two-mile loop, or just wander the trails and keep your eyes peeled for colorful trees in this 230-acre park and Seattle institution. Whether you spend 30 minutes or three hours, you can't go wrong at this urban oasis.

Bainbridge Island’s Bloedel Reserve turns into nature's kaleidoscope every autumn, with colors that shimmer and shift before your eyes. Explore the collection of 12 gardens on 150 acres, the award-winning Japanese Garden and the green moss garden. Fall is a magical time at the Reserve. Inhale the fresh, sweet scent that drifts off the Katsura trees in the Japanese garden. The fragrance comes from the leaves themselves as they turn colors and float to the ground.

Green Lake is Seattle's beloved summer hang, but did you know that adjacent Woodland Park (of Zoo fame) continues on the east side of Aurora down to the south end of Green Lake? The best fall colors can be found here, near the many picnic areas and the large, wooded dog off-leash area.

Discovery Park is Seattle's most dramatic (and largest) park, with a lighthouse, 534 acres of hiking and biking, and epic views of Puget Sound. The trees don't disappoint either, with 11 miles of trails opening up countless opportunities for leaf gawking. Pack a picnic, toss the football or play Cornhole, and enjoy an autumn day to remember.

Colman Pool is closed for the season but Lincoln Park still beckons, with 4.6 miles of walking paths and one mile of sea-walled rocky beaches. The fam will enjoy trees ablaze with orange, red and yellow leaves along the paths, contrasting with dark green kelp on the beach and the slate-gray waters of the Sound below. With five picnic shelters, two playgrounds and acres of play fields, this West Seattle gem is a popular spot for families and a fine place to spend an autumn afternoon.

This delightful park, located smack dab in downtown Bellevue, offers 53 acres of cultivated gardens, meadows, wetlands and woodlands for visitors to explore. The 1/3-mile Lost Meadow loop trail offers picturesque fall colors. Be sure to stroll through the Dahlia Garden; flowers should be in full bloom through mid-November (or the first frost). The Botanical Gardens are free and open from dawn to dusk every day. Look out for the hidden door—it's sure to delight the littles.

Under 30 miles from Seattle, this charming nautical village has fall colors galore! The Japanese Gulch hike offers a multitude of trails that lead to hidden coves and sandy beaches. Bring your kites; the kids will love to fly them high above the beach while you wait to feed the fam at Ivar's or Diamond Knot.