10 Northwest Adventures for Kids in October

Now that the cruise ship hordes have cleared out, it’s a great time to visit our iconic Pike Place Market. The fish market with the famous fish throwers has changed ownership, but nothing else has changed: same worn walkways, same produce and flower sellers, just a little less claustrophobic. (Get an age-by-age guide to the Market.)

Sensory-friendly tip: When you need a quieter place to go (and a reliably clean restroom), head across the street to the Seattle Art Museum, at First and Union. An exhibit of royal treasures from Jodhpur, India, opens on Oct. 18. But frankly, the lower level (which is always free) is a bigger draw for kids. 

Walk under John Grade’s giant hemlock sculpture next to the ticketing desk. Stop by the Chase Open Studio to make some art — it’s free and stocked with art supplies. Chances are you’ll be the only ones there; the studio’s kind of a hidden gem.