Team Recs – Our Favorite Fall Activities
Wine tasting in Woodinville (while enjoying the Fall foliage)
Recommended by: Priyanka Jeevaretanam, Civil Engineer
Why I love it: I love heading to the wineries and restaurants in Woodinville! Patio seating is especially great for enjoying wine while soaking up the beautiful Fall colors. The grape varietals grown in the region, such as cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay, have rich and savory undertones that pair so well with Fall fruits and vegetables. And it’s a lot of fun trying different wines and pairing them with typical Fall dishes like a hearty pumpkin soup and butternut squash pasta.
Pro Tip: Some wineries make fruit wine with Fall fruits such as apples and cranberries. They typically make very small batches, but they’re delicious and taste like Fall in a bottle! They’re perfect for a cold and rainy day.
Tailgating at Husky Stadium
Recommended by: Zach Whitman, Structural Project Manager
Why I love it: Fall means that football is back! And what’s better than spending the day eating and drinking outside with 10,000 of your closest friends? I look forward to this all year. Having gone to UW myself, the Husky pride runs deep. Rain or shine, there’s a good chance you’ll see me at the tailgate.
Pro Tip: Arrive early and take a stroll through campus. UW is gorgeous in the Fall!
Image Credit: 2023 © University of Washington Athletics
Camping at Walupt Lake
Recommended by: Ezra Marshall, BIM Technician
Why I love it: Cool, crisp air, clear skies, and amazing views make this one of my favorite spots. Mt. Rainier, Mt. Adams, and Mt. St. Helens peek out occasionally, and the night sky is incredible!
Pro Tip: This location has gotten very popular over the last decade. If available, RSVP in the Fall/Winter with the campground. And dress for cold wind!
Image Credit: Washington Trails Association
Carving and Painting Pumpkins
Recommended by: Kelly Weiler, Structural Staff Engineer
Why I love it: Fall is one of my favorite times of the year and nothing says Fall like carved and painted pumpkins. Mixing up traditional carving designs with unexpected decor is my favorite way to celebrate spooky season. And once Halloween is over, I pivot to pumpkin painting. Not only do uncarved pumpkins last way longer, but you can be a lot more creative and colorful with your designs!
Pro Tip: Carving two pumpkins doubles your chances of being proud of the final product. I also would recommend baking the seeds with chili lime seasoning – so good. And be sure to use acrylics when painting on dry gourds!