10 Things to Do With Kids Around Seattle the Last Days of Summer 2023

The steady drumbeat of gorgeous 75-degree days calls for a refreshing swim or splash!

Head to a seasonal outdoor swimming pool or water park, or just gather the tots and pop by a spray park or wading pool: They’re free and easy.

Bigger kids will love jumping in the lake. We rounded up some great Seattle-area lake-swimming spots for your crew, on Lake Washington, Lake Sammamish and more. If the presence of lifeguards is important to you, check in advance which swimming beaches are staffed with lifeguards and when. (Also, be sure to check for bacteria-related beach closures — ick — which our warm weather can fuel.)

If you’re up for a bit more adventure, we’ve also got a selection of awesome swimming holes for families around Washington, or hikes to mountain lakes.

Or keep it simple and just cool off in your yard with a DIY water-play set up. 

One important note: Any time you’re dealing with kids and water together, keep water safety tips from Seattle Children’s top of mind, even if you’ve just got a backyard kiddie pool.

Next adventure: flee to the trees