Seasonal and Holiday Date Ideas in Seattle

Some Seattle dates work year round. Others are magic because they only show up for a few weeks each season. Planning around those windows can make a simple date feel special.
This guide breaks out seasonal and holiday date ideas so you can match your plans to cherry blossoms, long summer evenings, fall color, and winter lights.
Spring date ideas
1. Cherry blossoms at UW
For a short but unforgettable spring date, visit Cherry Blossoms at the UW Quad. The bloom window is brief, so keep an eye on timing, then go early in the day to avoid the heaviest crowds.
2. Garden walks at Kubota and the Arboretum
Spring is prime time for Kubota Garden: Japanese Landscape & Peaceful Trails and Washington Park Arboretum: Garden Paths & Nature Loops. You will see new leaves, early blooms, and fresh greens everywhere.
3. Wallingford and Edmonds art walks
Make the most of cool but bright days with Wallingford Self-Guided Walking Tour with Café Stops or Edmonds Self-Guided Art Walk: Murals & Cafés. These feel like neighborhood treasure hunts.
Summer date ideas
4. Kayak dates on Lake Washington or Lake Union
Summer is the best time for Lake Washington Kayaking with Seattle Skyline Views and Lake Union Kayaking: Skyline Views & Seaplane Watching. Pack sunscreen, pick a calm day, and plan a post paddle drink or dinner.
5. Tall ship or locks cruise
Warm evenings are perfect for Tall Ship Cruise from Seattle Waterfront or Ballard Locks Cruise Adventure with Argosy. You get water, skyline, and just enough narration to keep things interesting.
6. Gas Works and farmers market evenings
Summer also shines at Gas Works Park Sunset Picnic with Lake Union Views and Ballard Farmers Market: Weekend Food Stroll. Long light means you can linger outside well past dinner.
Fall date ideas
7. Foliage walks at Discovery Park and Lincoln Park
Fall color and crisp air make Discovery Park: Coastal Trails & Puget Sound Views and Cliffs + Beach Strolls: Explore Lincoln Park feel extra cinematic. Bring layers and a warm drink.
8. Wine tasting in Woodinville
When the weather turns cooler, Woodinville Wine Tasting: Tasting Rooms and Taprooms Date is a great way to stay mostly inside while still moving from spot to spot. Share flights, compare notes, and pick a bottle to bring home.
Winter and holiday date ideas
9. WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo
WildLanterns: Nighttime Lights Walk at Woodland Park Zoo turns the zoo into a glowing, colorful trail. It is an easy win for couples who like immersive experiences and photo ready moments.
10. Garden d’Lights in Bellevue
On the Eastside, Garden d’Lights: Winter Lights Walk in Bellevue covers the botanical garden in intricate light displays. Bundle up, wander the paths, and grab a hot drink nearby.
11. Cozy overnights and spa escapes
Winter is a great time to turn date night into a getaway at places like Forest Escape: Overnight at Cedarbrook Lodge, Romantic Spa Getaway at Salish Lodge & Snoqualmie Falls, and Willows Lodge: Wine, Spa, and Fireplaces in Woodinville.
12. Warm up with saunas and indoor dates
Round out your winter plans with Cold Plunge & Sauna Experience in Kirkland and the indoor ideas in our Indoor Date Ideas in Seattle guide.
Use this seasonal list as a starting point, then filter all Seattle date ideas by season, vibe, and price to build a lineup that fits your calendar.