Dia de los Muertos and Discovering Downtown Tacoma

The Ultimate Guide to Pairing Your Día de los Muertos Festival Visit with Tacoma’s Best

If you’re heading to the annual Annual Día de los Muertos Festival at the Tacoma Art Museum, don’t stop at the celebration itself. This free, family-friendly event is the perfect centerpiece for a full day exploring Tacoma’s vibrant Museum District and surrounding attractions – all within about five miles of the museum.

The 22nd annual festival takes place Sunday, November 1, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Presented in partnership with Mi Centro, it honors the traditional Mexican holiday that celebrates the lives of departed loved ones through colorful ofrendas (community altars), a traditional tapete (sand painting), live music and dance performances, hands-on art-making workshops, food vendors, and local artisan goods. It’s open to everyone of all ages; advance timed-entry registration is required (and free, with a pay-what-you-can option), and you can also pre-order the festival T-shirt at that time.

Once you’ve immersed yourself in the vibrant traditions, colorful altars, and community spirit at the museum, the surrounding area offers easy, walkable (or short drive) options that keep the whole family engaged. Here’s how to turn your visit into a memorable day of art, history, play, nature, and good food.

Start or Extend the Art Experience in the Museum District

Tacoma’s compact Museum District puts several standout attractions just steps or a short stroll from the Tacoma Art Museum.

Right next door, the Children’s Museum of Tacoma is ideal for younger visitors. Designed for babies through about age 12, it features nature-inspired playscapes, an art studio stocked with supplies, and open-ended play spaces. Admission is pay-what-you-will, making it accessible for every family. It’s a natural complement to the festival’s hands-on art activities and keeps energy high after time spent looking at ofrendas.

A short walk across the free, outdoor gallery of the Chihuly Bridge of Glass leads to the Museum of Glass The distinctive cone-shaped building houses contemporary glass art and a working Hot Shop where you can watch live glassblowing demonstrations – fascinating for kids and adults alike.

A few blocks away sits the Washington State Historical Museum. Interactive exhibits cover everything from Indigenous history to the region’s industrial growth, and the large model railroad of early 20th-century Tacoma often captivates visitors of all ages.

Slightly farther along the waterfront (still under a mile), the Foss Waterway Seaport explores Tacoma’s maritime heritage with exhibits, historic boats, and hands-on elements in a restored warehouse. Admission is free (donations welcome), and the setting along the Thea Foss Waterway adds a scenic outdoor dimension.

Stretch Your Legs: Parks and Waterfront Views

Between festival activities, burn off some energy outdoors. For fresh air and a chance to run around, head to Wright Park. Roughly a mile from the museum, this 27-acre arboretum features hundreds of trees, open lawns, walking paths, and the charming W.W. Seymour Conservatory filled with tropical plants and seasonal displays. It’s free, peaceful, and perfect for a picnic or simply letting kids burn energy between museum visits.

For bigger views, head to the waterfront. A ten-minute drive will take you to Ruston Way, a local waterfront destination packed with family-friendly activities. Visitors can stroll the Waterwalk, browse local shops, enjoy waterfront dining, and take in spectacular bay views. The area has become one of Tacoma’s premier destinations for recreation and relaxation.

Families frequently spend several hours here walking along the shoreline, enjoying ice cream, shopping, or simply watching the water. It is particularly appealing for festival attendees looking to continue their day in a casual and scenic environment. Dune Peninsula, a hilltop park at Point Ruston, has sweeping bay views and a playground that will make the kids’ day.

Eat, Drink, and Unwind at Local Restaurants and Pubs

Festival food vendors will cover traditional options during the event, but downtown Tacoma has plenty of nearby spots for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a post-celebration drink. Many are family-friendly with options that work for mixed ages.

Seafood fans can try Tacoma Fish Peddler on Dock Street, or for something with a bit more flair, Indochine Asian Dining Lounge serves Tacoma’s best Asian fusion inside a converted 1904 candy factory. For something a bit more elevated or adult-oriented later in the day, Elks Temple Hotel – McMenamins (on Broadway) delivers classic Northwest pub fare, craft beers, and cocktails in a historic building with great views.

Puget Sound Pizza hand-tosses local favorites a few blocks south, and Mikey’s Public House and Frog Bar – directly across Pacific Ave from the museum – fires up wood-fired pizzas with handmade, locally sourced toppings. Old Spaghetti Factory – Tacoma is practically across the street and a family favorite for generations.

Craft Brews and Community Pubs

Tacoma’s brewing heritage runs deep, and the downtown “Brewery Blocks” pay homage to the trade that built the neighborhood. Within a few steps of each other you’ll find Tacoma Outpost Pizza – Camp Colvos Brewing and The Living Taproom, where you can pick and pour your own brews.

Just down Pacific Avenue from the museum, Odd Otter Brewing Company pours creative small-batch beers in an unpretentious taproom, while nearby E9 Brewing Co. celebrates its status of Tacoma’s first brewery with their own suds and handcrafted pizzas. Prefer whisky and soccer? Doyle’s Public House on St. Helens Avenue has been Tacoma’s beloved local hangout for years. Most taprooms are family-friendly during the day, and several welcome well-behaved pups on the patio, so nobody gets left behind.

Rainy Day Backup Plans

November in the Northwest means weather can be unpredictable. If the skies open up, downtown has you covered – literally. Duck into King’s Books, the area’s largest independent bookstore with 150,000 titles; battle it out at Dorky’s Arcade on Pacific Avenue; catch an indie film at the nonprofit Grand Cinima; or hunt for treasures along Antiques Row, on Broadway and Commerce Streets between S 7^th and S 9^th, where multi-level shops like Savoy Special Vintage invite hours of browsing. Theater lovers can check the schedule at the historic Pantages and Rialto Theaters, both beautifully restored 1918 venues in the Theater District.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Full Day

Register for your timed entry to the festival early so you can plan the rest of your itinerary around it. Parking is available under and around the Tacoma Art Museum (paid, with an all-day option). The area is also served by Pierce Transit buses and the Tacoma Link light rail, making it easy to hop between stops if you prefer not to walk to everything.

Wear comfortable shoes – the Museum District is compact and walkable. Check individual museum websites for current hours and any special programming, as some operate Wednesday–Sunday or similar schedules. The festival itself runs until 5 p.m., so you can start early at a nearby museum or park, enjoy the Día de los Muertos activities, then finish with a meal or more exploring.

Tacoma’s downtown rewards dawdling. The combination of the heartfelt, colorful Día de los Muertos Festival with world-class glass art, hands-on kids’ spaces, history, outdoor green space, and solid local food creates an easy, all-ages day that feels special without requiring long drives or complicated logistics.

Celebrate life, memory, and culture at the Tacoma Art Museum, then let the surrounding neighborhood fill in the rest of the story. Register for the festival, pick a few nearby stops that match your group’s energy, and make a full day of it. You’ll leave with more than festival memories – you’ll leave with a deeper sense of what makes Tacoma’s cultural heart so lively.

Haunted Gardens & N. Kitsap Adventures

Make a Day of It: Family Fun Near Haunted Heronswood in Kingston, WA

The pumpkins are carved, the woodland is glowing, and something spooky is stirring among the hedges. Haunted Heronswood returns to Heronswood Gardens in Kingston on Friday, October 16 and Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 5:00 to 9:00 PM – and if you’re making the trip, you should absolutely make a day of it.

This beloved annual festival transforms the renowned gardens into an all-ages Halloween wonderland. Kids in costume can follow the illuminated trick-or-treat trail for free candy, the pumpkin parade brings the grounds to life, and the Woodland Garden hosts a tour of Halloween horrors that’s spooky enough to thrill older kids but “not too terrifying” for younger ones. Creepy characters from the garden’s popular Tribal Tales series – which arrive weekly all fall leading up to the big weekend – wander the paths, and food and drink under the event tent keep everyone fueled. Tickets are available at the gate ($15 adults, $10 for kids 7–17, free for children under 7), and no advance registration is required – though parking is limited, so arriving early is a smart move.

The garden itself is a 15-acre treasure with formal gardens, woodlands, and diverse plant collections that look magical in autumn light. But why limit yourself to the evening? Kingston and the immediate surroundings offer plenty of all-ages activities, scenic spots, community pubs, restaurants, and points of interest within about a five-mile radius. Plan an early start, enjoy the outdoors and local flavors by day, then head to the illuminated paths as dusk falls.

A complimentary shuttle often runs from the Kingston Ferry Terminal via The Point Casino & Hotel, easing logistics if you’re arriving by ferry from Edmonds.

Plan your day before you arrive

With plenty of parks and outdoor adventures (big and small!), small-town charm, tasty eats, and waterfront attractions, a general plan will help keep you walking into Heronswood as dusk arrives and the specters slide out of the shadows. We suggest morning exploration, followed by a light lunch, and then a visit to one of Northern Kitsap’s heritage towns. Or vice versa! Grab an early bite at one of the local restaurants and then off you go.

Get outdoors

With forested parks, golf, waterfront paths, and historic towns there are options for everyone in your party.

Parks & outdoor fun

North Kitsap Heritage Park This expansive natural area features forested trails and opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the Pacific Northwest landscape. It’s an ideal destination for families wanting to stretch their legs before the evening event.
Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park Mountain bikers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts will find miles of trails throughout this popular regional recreation area. Even a short walk through the forest provides a chance to experience Kitsap County’s beautiful natural environment.
White Horse Golf Club Golfers looking to spend a few hours outdoors should consider White Horse Golf Club. Surrounded by forests and scenic landscapes, it offers a memorable golfing experience just minutes from Heronswood Garden.
The Hansville Greenway A little outside our five-mile radius, this collection of trails and parks cover a whopping 264 acres with miles and miles of trails. Created in partnership with the Kitsap County Department of Parks & Recreation, this corridor of county-owned natural areas, trail easements, and conservation easements invites exploration of the area as well as the benefits of conservation.

Amble over to Kingston

One of Kingston’s greatest attractions is its charming waterfront setting. The Port of Kingston Marina offers beautiful views of Puget Sound, passing ferries, and the Olympic Mountains on clear days. Visitors can stroll the marina, watch boat traffic, or simply relax by the water before heading to Haunted Heronswood.

Downtown Kingston’s walkable streets also feature local shops, cafés, and small businesses that are perfect for browsing during a leisurely afternoon. The relaxed pace makes it especially appealing for families and visitors seeking a classic small-town Washington experience.

Go east to Port Gamble

Just east of Kingston and within a short drive of Heronswood lies the historic town of Port Gamble. This beautifully preserved nineteenth-century mill town feels like stepping back in time. Visitors can stroll among historic buildings, browse local shops, and enjoy a meal or coffee in one of the community’s charming establishments such as the Port Gamble Theater.

The Point Casino & Hotel, operated by the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe and only minutes from the garden, features impressive tribal art, totem poles, and dining options. Even if gaming isn’t your focus, the cultural displays and restaurants make it a convenient stop, and the shuttle connection is practical.

Head north to Hansville

A short drive north of Heronswood brings you to the quiet village of Hansville, where time slows down and the water is never far away. The beach at Hansville boasts tide pools, driftwood, and wide-open views across Puget Sound. Let the kids run off some energy before the evening’s spooky stroll. If you have an extra twenty minutes, continue on to Point No Point – Lighthouse, the northern tip of the Kitsap Peninsula. Its historic lighthouse, sandy beach, and sweeping water views make it one of the most photogenic spots in the county – a dreamy place for a family walk or a romantic handheld stroll

Take a break for a quick bite or relaxing meal

Northern Kitsap County has plenty of food options, making it easy to find a delicious bite that suits your fancy. These are some of the local favorites.

The Kingston Ale House A true community institution steps from the ferry, serving everything from burgers and steaks to grilled salmon and coconut prawns. With seasonal menus, local beer, and a lively weekend crowd, it’s an easy pick for a pre-haunting dinner.
Sourdough Willy’s A pizzeria built around a 120-year-old sourdough starter, turning out Sicilian, New York, and Detroit-style pies. Kid-approved and filling.
The Grub Hut Kingston’s reigning comfort-food champ – laid-back burgers, shakes, and no-frills deliciousness.
Friends And Neighbors Brewing A cozy craft brewpub where locals gather for a pint or a flight. A great spot for the grown-ups while the kids sip root beer.
Hood Canal Brewery is a popular local gathering place where visitors can sample regional craft beer in a laid-back setting. The brewery provides a welcoming community atmosphere and an authentic taste of the local craft beverage scene.
Filling Station – Kingston For a casual meal, The Filling Station has become a Kingston favorite. Known for hearty comfort food, burgers, fish and chips, and family-friendly service, it’s an easy choice for visitors looking for a relaxed local dining experience.
Da Poke Shop If you’re craving something lighter, Da Poke Shop/Ono Poke Too offers fresh Hawaiian-inspired poke bowls and seafood options. Located near the ferry terminal area, it’s an excellent lunch stop before exploring the rest of Kingston.

End the Evening at Haunted Heronswood

As sunset arrives, make your way back to Heronswood Garden for the main event. The gardens transform into a festive Halloween landscape featuring illuminated pathways, seasonal decorations, trick-or-treat stations, spooky encounters, food, drinks, and family-friendly scares. Pairing your haunting with nearby parks, shorelines, historic touches, and welcoming local eateries turns a single evening into a full Kitsap County adventure. Check the official event page at Heronswood Gardens for the latest dates, ticket details, and any shuttle information, then map your day around the glowing pumpkins and woodland trails.

The North Kitsap Peninsula delivers charm, nature, and flavor in equal measure—perfect for making memories that last well beyond Halloween.

Beyond the Brisket: Discover Dupont

Make a Full Day of Your Visit to the Annual DuPont BBQ Cookoff

The Annual DuPont BBQ Cookoff returns to Clocktower Park every August, and it’s the perfect reason to turn a weekend of championship barbecue into a full South Sound adventure. Hosted by American Legion “Pat Tillman Memorial” Post #53, the free-admission event draws thousands for KCBS-sanctioned competition, BBQ samples, live music, a beer garden, vendor marketplace, and free kids’ activities like inflatables, face painting, and games. All proceeds support local veterans and youth programs.

The good news is that once you’ve sampled world-class barbecue and explored Vendor Row, there is plenty more to see and do. Whether you’re arriving early, taking a break between BBQ tastings, or extending your stay into the evening, DuPont offers activities for visitors of all ages. Nearly everything recommended here sits within about five miles of Clocktower Park, so you can walk, short-drive, or hop the free event shuttles and still stay close to the smoke and the fun.

The Heart of the Action: Clocktower Park Itself

Clocktower Park is more than the event venue. Its namesake tower, open turf, playground, picnic tables, restrooms, and paved paths make it a natural gathering spot before or after sampling. Arrive early to claim a shady spot, let kids burn energy on the play equipment, or simply people-watch as the aroma of brisket, ribs, and pulled pork fills the air.

Step Back in Time at the DuPont Historical Museum and Historic Village

Just a short walk or very short drive away, the DuPont Historical Museum tells the story of this unique place – from Native American roots and the Hudson’s Bay Company’s Fort Nisqually to the DuPont Company’s explosives plant (which gave the town its name) and the modern planned community of Northwest Landing. Exhibits include artifacts, photos, a dynamite train display, and a “Life in a Company Town” permanent installation. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

Walk or Hike the Sequalitchew Creek Trail

One of the best family-friendly outdoor options starts practically at Clocktower Park’s doorstep. The Sequalitchew Creek Trail is an easy out-and-back route that winds through a forested canyon, past historic markers and old railroad remnants from the dynamite-train era, and down to a quiet beach on Puget Sound. The core trail is roughly 3 miles round-trip with modest elevation change; the longer version via the park stretches to about 6 miles if you want more time outdoors.

It’s dog-friendly on leash, good for strollers on the more level sections, and packed with wildlife viewing – birds, the occasional deer, and lush greenery. If you’ve indulged in a few extra BBQ samples, the trail provides the perfect excuse to stretch your legs. Pack water, bug spray (especially in warmer months), and a picnic to enjoy at the beach.

Catch a Breeze in Steilacoom

One of the prettiest little waterfront towns in Washington sits just five minutes north of DuPont. Steilacoom wraps around the eastern shore of the Sound and rewards an unhurried afternoon. Stroll the historic downtown, browse the antique shops and small galleries, then head to Saltar’s Point Park. This tucked-away gem offers 500 feet of saltwater shoreline, picnic shelters, a footbridge over the railroad tracks, and views across the water to Ketron and Anderson Islands – a perfect spot to let kids skip stones while grown-ups decompress.

Stretch Your Legs at Fort Steilacoom Park

South of DuPont in Lakewood, Fort Steilacoom Park is one of Pierce County’s best-kept secrets: 340 acres of trails, open fields, and forest anchored by Waughop Lake, which is encircled by a flat, paved 5K loop that’s ideal for strollers, scooters, and little legs. There’s a playground, a historic cemetery and orchard from the old territorial fort, and on clear days, sweeping views of Mount Rainier and the Olympics. Pack a frisbee or a kite – the big open hillside is made for it.

Fuel Up at Local Pubs and Restaurants

When hunger strikes before (or after) your BBQ samples, you don’t need to leave town. Most of these spots cluster along Wilmington Drive and nearby streets, well within a couple of miles of the park.

McNamara’s Pub and Eatery A longtime local favorite, McNamara’s Pub & Eatery offers a welcoming Irish pub atmosphere. Expect shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, bangers and mash, burgers, and a solid beer selection in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Farrelli’s Pizza Located just minutes from Clocktower Park, Farrelli’s is well known for its wood-fired pizzas, family-friendly environment, and comfortable dining room. It’s ideal for groups or families looking for a delicious and easy meal.
Bruceskis Sports fans and casual diners often enjoy Bruceski’s Pizza & Bar for its relaxed atmosphere, pizza selections, buffalo wings, and beverages.
Sushi Pho You If you’ve had your fill of smoked meats and are looking for something completely different, Sushi Pho You, a highly rated local restaurant, offers sushi, pho, teriyaki, and other Asian-inspired dishes.
Bliss Small Batch Creamery No summer outing is complete without dessert. Bliss Small Batch Creamery serves handcrafted ice cream and is a favorite stop for both residents and visitors.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

Come for the brisket, stay for the community, and discover why thousands of visitors continue making the DuPont BBQ Cookoff a summer tradition year after year. After all, great barbecue is even better when it’s part of a great day.

Getting around: Free parking and shuttles ease congestion. Many restaurants and the museum are walkable or a short hop from the park.
Timing: Sample hours are limited (typically midday into afternoon), so plan outdoor or museum time around them. Kids’ activities at the Cookoff are free and ongoing.
Sample strategically. Championship BBQ samples are bought with $3 BBQ Bucks (most samples run just 1 to 2 Bucks), so grab a booklet early and pace yourself across categories – brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken.
Shop Vendor Row. The vendor marketplace is a destination of its own, packed with handcrafted goods, specialty foods, and local artisans.
Keep the kids busy. Children’s activities and games are free, and the inflatable zone will burn off any lingering energy from the trail.
Relax in the beer garden. Cold local beer, live music from noon onward, and the smell of smoke in the air – this is what August in the South Sound is all about.
Come on Friday night. The weekend kicks off with the BBQ Kickoff Banquet on Friday evening, featuring Texas-style brisket and pulled pork from J&C BBQ & Catering, live music, and cold drinks. Advance tickets are $40 and strongly encouraged.

Make It More Than a Festival Visit

The DuPont BBQ Cookoff is already a standout Pacific Northwest tradition. Layer in a trail walk to the Sound, a stop at the historical museum, playground time at one of several parks, and a meal at a neighborhood pub or restaurant, and you’ve built a full day that showcases the best of this quiet, history-rich community next to Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Come for the championship barbecue and live music – stay to discover the trails, parks, and welcoming local spots that make DuPont worth exploring.

Make a Day of It: Things to Do Around the Georgetown Morgue This October

If you’re planning a night of screams at the Georgetown Morgue Haunted House this October, here’s some advice from locals: don’t just show up, get scared, and drive home. After you buy your tickets (Georgetown Morgue Haunted House) make it a destination day. Georgetown is one of Seattle’s most fascinating, eclectic, and downright fun neighborhoods, packed with history, incredible food, craft beer, quirky art, and hidden gems that make it the perfect place to spend an entire day before you dare to walk the halls of the Morgue.

Book your tickets first, as your options may change your plans; the entries are timed, and a variety of upgrades and options can pin down your entry time. Make sure that you don’t toast your visit before going to the morgue – visitors who have consumed alcohol will be turned away! You can find the full list of Warnings at the bottom of the home page – it’s a complete list of their cautions and conditions.

Start the Morning Right: Coffee and Character

Every great day starts with great coffee, and Georgetown delivers. All City Coffee is the neighborhood’s beloved anchor café – a laid-back, art-speckled hangout that feels like it was designed by and for Georgetown itself. The walls are adorned with local artwork and the atmosphere pulses with the neighborhood’s industrial heartbeat.

Alternatively, Brother Joe is another local coffee favorite that captures Georgetown’s independent spirit perfectly. Both spots are the kind of places where the person behind the counter knows their regulars, a rarity in a big city, and something worth savoring.

Before the crowds roll in and the day gets going, take a short walk over to Oxbow Park. You can’t spend a day in Georgetown without visiting Seattle’s beloved giant cowboy hat and boots sculpture – officially titled “Hat ‘n’ Boots.” Originally built in the 1950s as a quirky roadside attraction, the landmark was lovingly restored and now anchors a small neighborhood park. Grab a selfie to share the start of your day.

Dig Into History: The Museum of Flight, The Connections Museum and Georgetown Steam Plant

Roughly a mile south of the Morgue sits one of the finest air and space museums on the planet. The Museum of Flight is home to a supersonic Concorde, a retired Air Force One, dozens of military and commercial aircraft, and interactive exhibits that will keep anyone engaged for hours. It’s the ideal warm-up: you get culture, history, and aviation thrills before your evening of horror.

Georgetown is, in fact, Seattle’s oldest neighborhood and the birthplace of King County, which means history runs deep here. For anyone with a curious mind, the Connections Museum Seattle is a genuinely fascinating stop. Open on Sundays, this working museum houses an extraordinary collection of antique telephone equipment: functional switchboards, rotary phones, teletype machines, and telephone exchange hardware and all kept operational so you can see them in action.

The Georgetown Steam Plant is another landmark worth a look. This 1906 steam power facility is one of the best-preserved examples of Edwardian industrial architecture in the United States and has a hauntingly beautiful quality to it – entirely appropriate for an October visit. Keep an eye on community event listings, as the Steam Plant periodically hosts open house events and tours that let you get up close with the towering machinery and atmospheric interiors.

Time to Feed the Beast: Where to Eat in Georgetown

Just because it’s spooky season it doesn’t mean hangry monsters are welcome! Georgetown punches well above its weight when it comes to food, here are a few favorites within a short drive of the Morgue:

Fonda La Catrina A family-friendly Mexican restaurant where bright murals, strings of lights, and tart margaritas set the scene for a festive pre-Morgue dinner. It’s neighbor, El Sirenito, is another fantastic Mexican place with a seafood-forward menu and an impressive selection of mezcals.
Slim’s Last Chance It’s got a roadhouse vibe complete with several varieties of chili, live music, and stick-to-your-ribs comfort food. Featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, the jalapeño mac and cheese and white cheddar grits are practically mandatory orders.
Georgetown Pizza & Arcade It’s the afternoon cheat code: square pies, slices, and a hall of pinball and arcade machines. Hours lean later in the day so don’t head over too early.

Kauai Family Restaurant A family-owned Hawaiian spot beloved for more than 25 years for its plate lunches, katsu, and spam musubi.
Ciudad Charcoal-grilled meats and vegetables with Mediterranean flavors and one of the most conversation-provoking murals in the entire neighborhood; it strikes a great balance between casual and special-occasion dining.
Smarty Pants With a heartier, American style menu, this has been a Georgetown institution for years. Their motto, “Beer, Booze and Grub,” is delivered with total sincerity. The sandwiches are the main draw, with a Reuben that earns serious praise, a full bar, and weekend brunch service.

Shop Like a Local

Georgetown’s retail scene is eclectic, independent, and genuinely fun to browse:

Georgetown Trailer Park Mall A cluster of vintage trailers and Airstreams converted into petite shops and galleries selling handcrafted housewares, clothing, art, and other treasures. It’s open weekends, which makes it an ideal Saturday stop before an evening at the Morgue.
Fantagraphics Bookstore & Gallery A must-visit for fans of alternative comics and graphic novels. This celebrated publisher and retailer shares its Georgetown space with Georgetown Records, a vinyl shop that has been selling used records of every genre for over two decades. Together, they make for a rabbit hole of discovery that could easily fill a few hours on a rainy October afternoon.
Hardmill Gorgeous handcrafted leather goods and restored cast-iron cookware, all hand-crafted in the neighborhood, that are designed with purpose and made to last.
Susan Wheeler Home and Kirk Albert Vintage sit side by side and together offer an extraordinary cache of midcentury modern pieces, vintage art, jewelry, and irreverent décor that reflects Georgetown’s singular personality.

Feature Event: The Georgetown Morgue

By the time you’ve explored the art, shopped the strip, and eaten well, you’ll be primed and ready for the main event. Don’t forget – The Georgetown Morgue won’t admit anyone who is under the influence of alcohol or other substances.

The Georgetown Morgue Haunted House awaits, delivering Seattle’s most intense, immersive, and terrifyingly well-crafted haunted attraction every October. Tickets are available in advance at Georgetown Morgue Haunted House and booking ahead is strongly recommended, this attraction fills up fast during the Halloween season.

Toast your Survival: Beer, Wine, and Spirits

You made it! After screaming your way through the Georgetown Morgue, you’ll want to catch your breath in Seattle’s original brewery district, Rainier Beer was literally born here in 1884, and the taps are still flowing.

Georgetown Brewing Company It’s the largest independent brewery in Washington State and a point of serious neighborhood pride. Stop in for a tour or a pint of their flagship Manny’s Pale Ale.

Machine House Brewery Brewing traditional English-style ales, hand-pumped straight from the cask inside the historic Rainier Brewery building. It’s got serious beer-geek cred in a cozy room.
Jellyfish Brewing Co and Great Notion Brewing Two more excellent taprooms within blocks of each other, they offer everything from crisp lagers to hazy IPAs, and are brilliant options, with Jellyfish pouring 13 of their own beers on tap in a welcoming taproom setting.
Jules Maes Saloon holds the distinction of being Seattle’s oldest bar, with roots going back to 1888. The exposed brick, soaring ceilings, and vintage bar make it one of the most atmospheric drinking destinations in the entire city. Tater tots are practically a cult item here, and on weekends the place comes alive with live music.
Tinte Cellars This Georgetown tasting room is an outpost of the Woodinville-based winery and easily spotted by the Vespa on the roof. Their Thursday all-day happy hour with food and wine specials is an especially great deal, and the spacious patio with its colorful mural is ideal for an October evening.
9lb Hammer is the quintessential Georgetown bar — dimly lit, cavernous, and completely unpretentious. Nobody has tapped into the Georgetown vibe more successfully, and it’s perfect for lingering with friends before heading out for your haunted house experience.

Georgetown: History, Hauntings, Impressive Eats & an Eclectic Personality

Georgetown isn’t just a stop on the way to a haunted house. It’s a destination all its own. It’s gritty, creative, historically rich, and full of the kind of authentic Seattle spirit that’s getting harder and harder to find. Make a full day of it this October, and you’ll leave with memories that go well beyond the scares.