Fall is one of the best times to visit Sequim, Washington, but it’s a season all too many people overlook. The summer crowds have faded, the air feels crisp, and the landscapes are painted with golden tones that make the Olympic Peninsula even more breathtaking than it already is. This quieter shoulder season is perfect for exploring unique attractions like the Olympic Game Farm, where families, couples, and solo travelers can enjoy a memorable drive-through zoo experience filled with wildlife encounters you can’t find anywhere else.Â
The Olympic Game Farm is just one highlight from this magnificent season. It’s just the beginning when it comes to things to do in Sequim during the fall. The season is ideal for exploring local farms and markets that remain packed with goodness well into autumn, exploring nearby hiking trails in Olympic National Park, or birdwatching along the Dungeness Spit. Downtown Sequim offers charming shops, local art galleries, and cozy restaurants that serve up fresh Northwest flavors. Whether you’re buying Olympic Game Farm tickets, wandering through a pumpkin patch, or enjoying a cider tasting at a local orchard, Sequim offers plenty of variety for fall travelers.
After days of exploring the game farm and checking things off your list of what to do in Sequim, finding the right place to stay is essential. The Juan de Fuca Cottages stand out as one of the best alternatives to traditional Sequim hotels. These waterfront cottages give you direct access to a private beach, comfortable accommodations with thoughtful amenities, and the kind of warm hospitality you’d expect from a boutique stay. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a couple’s getaway, or a solo retreat, the cottages offer the perfect balance of comfort and convenience, making them a top choice for a memorable fall escape. Book your Sequim getaway today!
Drive Through the Olympic Game Farm
Listen closely enough on a quiet day at our waterfront cottages in Sequim, and you might just hear the distant sounds of the Olympic Game Farm, one of Sequim’s most unique attractions and a must-visit for travelers of all ages. This family-friendly drive-through zoo gives you the chance to see an incredible range of animals up close, from grazing bison and elk to playful bears and zebras. You’ll also spot llamas, yaks, and exotic birds along the way, making it a memorable stop for anyone who enjoys wildlife encounters.
Unlike a traditional zoo, the Olympic Game Farm offers an interactive experience that feels more like a safari in the heart of the Olympic Peninsula. As you drive through this unique wildlife safari, animals will (at times) walk right up to your window in the hope of securing a tasty snack from you. Still, other animals remain safely behind fences, waiting for you to test out your throwing skills, in hopes of snagging a delicious slice of bread you toss their way.
You can’t just feed the animals anything, though. Feeding the animals at the Olympic Game Farm is strictly monitored and can only be from the bread available for purchase onsite. Don’t be caught off guard, though. These animals are accustomed to friendly humans who are ready to feed them, and they will walk right up to you for a bite! That includes the giant buffalo. Watching a bison’s giant tongue slip inside your car window (careful, or their whole head may end up in your car), and then swipe up a slice of bread is an experience you won’t forget. Families especially love this part of the visit, but it’s worth keeping in mind that the animals can get a little enthusiastic. Rolling up your windows between feedings and moving slowly along the route keeps the experience safe and fun.
You can only purchase Olympic Game Farm tickets onsite on the day of your visit. There are no advance ticket sales or reservations. Keep that in mind if you visit on a busy weekend or holiday, but generally, there’s plenty of room for everyone. Tickets are sold per person in the vehicle. The Olympic Game Farm opens daily, except Christmas and Thanksgiving, and the best time to go is earlier in the day when the animals are most active and the lines are shorter. Late afternoons can be a bit quieter, but you’ll find that mornings offer the liveliest experience and the clearest photo opportunities.
Plan to spend at least an hour at the Olympic Game Farm, though many visitors take longer to enjoy the pace and soak in the fun interactions.Â
Stay at One of the Best Sequim Hotels
We have no doubt you’ll love your visit to the Olympic Game Farm, not to mention a host of other activities you can enjoy while you’re in town! When you just want to kick back and relax for the afternoon, there’s no better place to call home than our Sequim Hotel. The Juan de Fuca Cottages are known for their comfortable waterfront accommodations that blend privacy with modern convenience. Guests can choose from charming cottages or well-appointed suites, each designed to make you feel at home while still offering many of the same perks as a traditional hotel.
Many rooms feature fireplaces, cozy seating areas, and private decks that open to stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, while some offer elevated amenities like hot tubs. For families, there’s plenty of space to spread out, and for couples, the cottages provide the perfect setting for a romantic escape. We even have a great selection of pet-friendly lodging for those guests traveling with their furry friends. What sets the cottages apart from other Sequim hotels is the thoughtful list of amenities combined with warm, welcoming hospitality.
Guests have access to a private beach, lawn games, and picnic areas that make it easy to enjoy the outdoors. Inside, you’ll find comfortable beds, free Wi-Fi, and all the essentials you need for a relaxing stay. We offer seasonal kayak and snowshoe rentals for all your adventure needs, and we have several breakfast options, including a daily hot breakfast that gets delivered directly to you or grab-and-go options from our on-site market. Whatever else you may need while you’re here, you can count on our dedicated staff to help in creating an experience that feels personal and memorable.
With its unbeatable location, thoughtful amenities, and genuine hospitality, Juan de Fuca Cottages ranks among the very best places to stay in Sequim. Book your fall getaway, and experience one of our favorite times of year in Sequim!
