State of Washington Tourism

Experience a state of wanderlust

Explore our regions.

Click a region on the map for an overview of the destination.

Trip Inspiration

Washington State Tourism

Discover Washington’s Scenic Lighthouses

Perched along rocky bluffs and nestled along sandy shores, Washington’s lighthouses offer sweeping views with a side of history.

Where to Soak: Hot Springs and Thermal Pools

Where to Soak: Hot Springs and Thermal Pools

Unwind and soak responsibly with a visit to one of these exceptional developed hot springs and thermal pools.

READ MORE »

Enjoy Spring in Yakima Valley With This Itinerary

Enjoy Spring in Yakima Valley With This Itinerary

Spring means festivals, great weather, and more in the Yakima Valley.

Colorful Trails: Explore These Scenic Wildflower Hikes

Colorful Trails: Explore These Scenic Wildflower Hikes

Discover stunning wildflower hikes with fewer crowds.

Sip Local at These Craft Distilleries

Sip Local at These Craft Distilleries

Visit stylish tasting rooms and sample top-notch spirits at these craft distilleries.

From Olympia to Spokane, Explore Washington’s Vibrant Murals

From Olympia to Spokane, Explore Washington’s Vibrant Murals

Discover the artists, history, and stories that bring Washington’s murals to life.

Things to Do With Kids in Washington State

Things to Do With Kids in Washington State

From digging for fossils to watching wildlife, Washington offers fun for the whole family.

Washington State Tourism Visitor Guide

Visitor Guide & Map Request

Get the Official Washington State Visitors’ Guide — our handy resource for planning your trip.

LEARN MORE »

Washington State Tourism Email Newsletter

Email Newsletter Signup

Stay in the know with stories, guides, and itineraries delivered straight to your inbox. 

Follow Us On Instagram

Stateofwatourism.

State of Washington Tourism

Sponsored Content

Let's Roam Explorer

The Top 21 Excursions and Tours in Seattle

Headed to the Emerald City sometime soon? We’ve compiled a list of the top tours in Seattle. Try one of our picks!

tour in wa

Located in Washington state in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is famous for many things—its iconic skyline, magnificent scenery, eclectic culture, and, of course, the tech industry and Starbucks. The Emerald City is young and vibrant, smack dab in the middle of pristine nature. You can easily fill your time bouncing between world-class museums, stunning parkland, and welcoming coffee shops and never get bored.

Just a warning: You may go broke! Seattle is an expensive city, so budget your trip wisely.

Planning any type of travel can be taxing, so to help you get started with your itinerary, we’ve put together a list of the top excursions and tours in Seattle. This has been created based on the experience of our own in-house travel experts along with TripAdvisor and Google Map reviews.

Enjoy a scavenger hunt in Seatown!

One of the most popular ways to see a new city or rediscover a favorite destination is on a tour, and Let’s Roam offers some of the most unique excursions available! Our Seattle Scavenger Hunt Tours will have you and your travel companions testing your smarts with questions about the attractions you visit. Earn points, take pics, and see who comes out on top!

21 Tours in Seattle

Below you’ll find a list of some of our favorite tours of Seattle including everything from bus tours to wine tastings. These tours can give you a great taste of Seattle and we are sure that they will leave you wanting more!

Seattle City Tours

Here at Let’s Roam, we absolutely adore exploring new cities, and although it’s great to be able to simply wander around on your own, sometimes guided sightseeing tours can help get a much better understanding of a city and what makes it so special. From walking tours to bus tours, these trips are usually well worth the money and can be the perfect introduction to a city, especially if you’re a bit short on time.

1. Three-Hour City Tour

During this sightseeing bus tour brought to you by Show Me Seattle , you can see many of the most popular attractions that Seattle has to offer! Highlights of the tour include Pike Place Market, the first Starbucks, Chinatown, the Seattle Center (home of the iconic Space Needle), Queen Anne Viewpoint, and Ballard Locks. 

The “buses” are roughly the size of minivans so don’t worry about being one sightseeing tour with a huge group of people. Show Me Seattle also offers a food tour and private tours that are perfect for bigger groups as they can work around your schedule.

2. Beneath the Streets Tour

This fascinating Beneath the Streets Tours lets you look deep below the streets of present-day Seattle to see Pioneer Square, the original neighborhood. As you walk through the underground passageway on this one-hour tour, you’ll step back in time to the late 19th century. 

During the tour, you learn the history of Seattle’s early years as well as stories about The Klondike Gold Rush. Tours are limited to 16 people, and departures are a bit limited on Tuesday and Wednesday, so be sure to check their website for the most up-to-date information. 

If you want to learn a bit more about Seattle’s dark underbelly, you can also join their after-hours red-light district tour where you can learn about the city’s history with gambling, prostitution, and drinking. These evening tours are only available on weekends and last approximately 75 minutes. 

3. Seattle By the Sound Scavenger Hunt Tour

Here at Lets Roam, we love hunting nearly as much as we love roaming and one of our favorite ways to explore Seattle is by doing a Seattle by the Sound Scavenger Hunt ! This hunt takes you along the Seattle waterfront where you can test your knowledge with trivia associated with Belltown and Pike Place. 

Have you ever wondered how far a fish can be thrown or what Washington State’s greatest wheel is? Here’s your chance to find out! 

During the hunt, you’ll learn more about Seattle’s storied buildings, epic sculptures, and sprawling green spaces, and have a great time doing it! While the tour normally takes about an hour and a half to two hours, it can be done as fast or as slow as you want, giving you plenty of time to stop and grab a coffee or beer along the way.

4. Food Tour of Pike Place

This food tour led by Eat Seattle lets you taste your way around Pike Place Market, one of Seattle’s most well-known landmarks. Led by a professional chef, some of the tastings include things like chocolate, pasta, chowder, and more. 

The tastings are pretty generous and you can usually skip lunch after doing this tour. If you’re a bit short on time but love the idea of doing a food tour, check their schedule as they occasionally offer abbreviated hour-long tours.

5. Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle City Tour

What happens when you combine a Seattle city tour with an excursion to Snoqualmie Falls? One heck of a day! Organized by Shutter Tours , this four-hour trip takes you to many of the top attractions in Seattle such as Pioneer Square. 

After you’ve explored the city, you’ll head out to see the Cascade Foothills and the breathtaking Snoqualmie Falls before circling back to see the Fremont Troll and the Ballard Locks. The tour finishes at Kerry Park where you can get some great photos of the Seattle skyline. 

If you love this experience with Shutter Tours, you can always join them for their Mount Rainier Tour. 

6. Seattle Brewery Tour

Seattle, and the entire Pacific Northwest, is famous for its delicious, high-quality craft beers and a Seattle brewery tour is the perfect way to increase your hoppy-ness factor! During this brewery waking tour , you’ll get to visit three different craft breweries where you can taste distinctive beer styles as part of a four-beer flight and learn a lot about the history behind Seattle’s beer scene. Best of all, you’ll discover the things that you need to look out for when beer tasting and you get to take home a souvenir beer tasting glass to remember the tour as well as a souvenir bottle opener. 

There is a multitude of beer tours to choose from including tours going through Old Ballard, Central Ballard, East Ballard, Fishermen’s Terminal, and Georgetown. Tour departure times vary but with frequent departure times throughout the day, you’re sure to find one that suits you perfectly!

7. Sleepless in Seattle Bar Crawl

If you love the idea of doing a pub crawl but would prefer doing it at your own pace, why not try a Sleepless in Seattle Bar Crawl ? This exciting activity will have you racing your friends to complete wacky challenges at some of Seattle’s most trendy bars. Since you can pause the game whenever you want, you can spend a little bit of time talking to that good-looking stranger over by the bar before heading off to the next spot (wink, wink). Just don’t leave your friends waiting for you for too long!

Boat and Kayak Tours

From Puget Sound to Lake Washington, Seattle is surrounded by water. One of the best ways to see this side of the city is on a boat or kayak tour. From wildlife watching excursions to romantic dinner cruises, there are many options to choose from whether you’re traveling as a family, couple, group of friends, or solo travelers!

Wildlife can be seen both near and far on many of the boat tours so make sure to bring some binoculars with you if you can. This helps enhance the overall experience and lets you get a closer look at birds soaring overhead.

8. Elliott Bay Sea Kayak Tour

Run by the team at Alki Kayak Tours , this two-hour tour of Elliott Bay and the Duwamish River is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Seattle area. While you’re paddling, you’ll be blessed with sweeping views of the Seattle skyline and the Olympic Mountains. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot California sea lions, bald eagles, harbor seals, and osprey. 

During the tour, the guide will tell you about the history of Seattle and the unique ecosystems of Puget Sound. Tours are run daily and all participants must be at least 18 years old. 

If you’d like a different kayaking experience, Alki Kayak Tours also offers trips to the Alki Point Lighthouse and sunset tours.

9. Harbor Cruise

This one-hour narrated boat tour by Argosy Cruises gives passengers a closer look at the Puget Sound, offering fantastic skyline views along the way. There is a full-service bar on board with snacks and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The staff are helpful and very informative and can help you spot the abundant wildlife found in the bay. 

Tours run frequently throughout the day during the high season with few departures during the winter months. Make sure to get to the departure point at least 20 minutes before the boat is scheduled to leave and keep in mind that seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. If you need some adult time, they also offer wine cruises as well as cruises along Lake Washington. 

10. Seattle Dinner Cruise

On the two-and-a-half-hour yacht cruise operated by Waterways Cruises , you’ll be welcomed with a glass of bubbly before being seated at a private table where you’ll be served a three-course dinner. Throughout the tour, you’ll hear about Seattle’s sparkling city skyline and its beautiful lakes. The service is top-notch and the food is delicious, making this the perfect activity for a romantic evening or a special occasion. 

Dinner cruises are offered from May to October (weather dependent). Tickets can be a bit expensive, so if you want to save a few bucks, you can opt for one of the Waterway Cruises brunch, sunset, or wine cruises. They also offer themed cruises throughout the year, and you can find a full schedule on their website.

11. Seattle Whale Watching Tours

Puget Sound Express gives you the chance to see some of the Seattle area’s diverse range of wildlife on these half-day tours. Some of the wildlife you may spot as you cruise through the San Juan Islands includes humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, otters, and more.

It takes about an hour to get to the islands and during that time, you can gaze out of the large windows, grab a coffee or some snacks at the onboard cafe, or hang out on one of the outdoor viewing decks. While it’s hard to guarantee what animals you’ll see on a cruise, Puget Sound Express promises that you’ll spot whales during the tour or they will give you your next trip for free. 

Tours leave daily from April until October. Since the departure times vary throughout the year, it’s a good idea to check the schedule on their website. 

If you simply can’t get enough of the wildlife adventure, they also offer bird-watching cruises as well as multi-day wildlife cruises.

12. Seattle to San Juan Island Whale-Watching

This is another solid choice for whale-watching excursions, especially if you want to spend a bit more time out on the water. Clipper Vacations offers full-day whale watching adventures on board a high-speed catamaran. 

The trip begins with the voyage to the San Juan Islands, where you can loom for whales with the help of the onboard naturalist. Afterward, the boat will dock in the island town of Friday Harbor and you can spend two hours wandering around this picture-perfect little town. 

The ticket prices for this longer excursion aren’t much higher than the half-day tours on other operators so make sure to shop around a bit before confirming a tour with a particular provider. The tour leaves from Pier 69 in Downtown Seattle from May until October. 

It’s a good idea to schedule a whale watching tour for the beginning of the trip because they also offer a free trip if no whales are seen during your voyage. Clipper Vacations also offers overnight cruises. 

13. Locks Cruise

Run by Argosy Cruises , the Locks Cruise consists of a two-hour narrated tour where you can get a first-hand view of how the Ballard Locks work. Watch as boats are either lowered or raised as they make their way into and out of Puget Sound.

The tour starts in Downtown Seattle from where you’re transported by bus to the starting point of the cruise. The tour then finishes at AGC Marina and they offer a bus service to get back to Pier 55 as part of their Boat & Cruise Excursion. Departure times vary throughout the year, and you can check their website for more details. 

Like many of the other cruise operators on this list, Argosy Cruises also offers harbor tours, wine cruises, and history cruises so if you loved your experience with them, there are plenty more options to choose from.

14. Lake Union Hot Tub Boats 

If you want to try a really unique way to see Seattle, Lake Union Hot Tub Boats may be just the thing you’re looking for! The company offers the “world’s first electric-propelled wood-fired hot tub boats”. The boats hold up to six people and are filled with fresh water, making it a little bit like taking a bath with your nearest and dearest while floating around in the lake and checking out the view of the Seattle skyline. 

The water is kept warm thanks to a wood-burning stove, and everything is as environmentally-friendly as possible. You can rent the hot tub boat for two hours or more 

Seattle is surrounded by some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery. While this accessibility to nature is without a doubt the reason why many Seattle-ites choose to live there, it’s also easy to get out into the natural landscapes as a tourist! 

There are plenty of day trips that you can do to Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier National Park. Although a day tour isn’t nearly enough time to see everything that these amazing parks have to offer (you would need months for that!), they can still give you a taste of the pristine landscape lying just outside Seattle’s doorstep.

15 Mt. Rainier Tour

One of the best things to do in Seattle is taking a day trip to Mount Rainier and Tours Northwest is waiting to take you there. The excursion begins with a drive through some spectacular scenery in an air-conditioned coach as you make your way to the mountain. 

Once you have arrived at Mount Rainier National Park, you’ll have plenty of time to do some of the park’s shorter hikes where you can see rushing waterfalls, idyllic meadows, and pristine old-growth forests. The tour guides are very experienced and can give fascinating information about the flora and fauna that call the park home and can help you choose the best trails to hit.

Tours last approximately ten hours and run from May until October. Even with the extended length of the trip, each full-day tour excursion should get you back in Seattle in time for dinner. Park fees are included in the total price so make sure to keep this in mind when you’re comparing the tour prices.

16. Olympic National Park Tour

With nearly one million acres of land and an enormous array of ecosystems, including mountains, coastline, and temperate rainforests, Olympic National Park is big… like really, really big. No trip to Seattle is complete without seeing this amazing natural attraction. This full-day excursion with Customized Tours helps you catch a glimpse of each of the different ecosystems. 

The 12-hour tour begins with a picturesque ferry ride across the Puget Sound before heading into the park which kind of turns it into a nature tour and boat trip in one! Although a bus takes you through the different sections of the park, there is still plenty of time to walk and it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes. The tour price includes pick-up from select Seattle hotels, and tours run from April through October. 

Customized Tours also operates their own Mount Rainier Tour so if this is something that you’re also interested in, you can ask your tour guide for more details.

17. Leavenworth Day Trip

While the Seattle area is known for many things, the one thing that people may not realize is that there is a quaint German village located just a short drive away! Operated by Oktay Tour , this Leavenworth day trip whisks you from the streets of Seattle to the charming streets of Bavaria in the blink of an eye. 

Each tour lasts around 8-9 hours, and you’ll pass by Snoqualmie Falls and Lake Washington before reaching Leavenworth. There, you’ll have a few hours to spend browsing through the shops, and checking out the local eateries. ‘

Wine Tasting Tours

Besides being lucky enough to be surrounded by epic scenery, Seattle also has more than its fair share of wineries. In fact, with more than 1,000 wineries located across Washington state, it’s the second-largest wine-producing region in the United States behind California.

During a wine tasting tour, you can try some of the best wines that are produced in the region. Most wine tours include transportation which means that you don’t have to worry about having a designated driver and everyone can join in on the fun! Plus, they tend to be small group tours, which means that you have plenty of time to get to know the other guests. You might even find some new friends!

18. Bon Vivant Woodinville Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly wine tasting option, Bon Vivant offers guided tours of Washington’s largest (and smallest) wineries. Depending on availability, they usually include a wide range of wineries which gives you the chance to experience the intoxicating array of wine options that Washington can offer! 

The tour usually includes a stop for lunch, and it’s a good idea to budget around $20 per wine tasting and roughly $25 for a “progressive lunch” where you have one course at each of the wineries. Our stomachs are rumbling just thinking about it!

If you’re traveling as a group or simply know exactly the types of wineries you would like to try, you may want to consider a private tour. This customized wine tasting tour by Bon Vivant is perfectly designed with your group’s tastes in mind! 

Before the tour begins, the expert guide will ask about your preferences and create an itinerary that fits your palette. Keep in mind that the tour prices do not include the wine tasting themselves and these should be budgeted separately. 

19. Snoqualmie Falls & Seattle Winery Tour

If you can’t decide whether you want to spend a day exploring natural wonders or want to spend a day visiting wineries (although you could argue that wine is a natural wonder in its own right!) this six-hour tour lets you do both! 

The tour visits Snoqualmie Falls and two wineries and the price of the tour includes pick-up service at Sea-Tac Airport and many Seattle tours. You start the day with a drive through the Cascade Mountains before reaching the 268-foot-tall waterfall where you can get some great photos. Next, the tour heads to Woodinville which lies about 30 minutes away from Seattle. 

Note: There’s a quick stop at an artisanal candy shop, so you can stock up on tasty treats!

20. Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting Tour

If you love the idea of visiting the falls and wine tasting on the same day but you’re looking for something a bit fancier, you may want to check out this eight-hour tour Operated by Evergreen Escapes . The tour starts with a pickup in Seattle, where you’ll begin your journey through the Cascade Mountains. 

After spending time admiring this rush waterfall, you’ll head to Woodinville, where you’ll have a gourmet picnic lunch and stop at three top-notch wineries. Learn how to sip like a sommelier during a fun, and informative, wine tasting lesson and get the chance to meet the winemakers behind the magic. 

When all is said and done, you should be back in the city with plenty of time to freshen up before dinner.

21. Mount Rainier National Park and Yakima Valley Wine Tasting Tour

This twelve-hour excursion operated by Evergreen Escapes combines a 3.5-mile hiking experience in the famed Mount Rainier National Park combined with wine tasting in one of Seattle’s top wine-producing areas. The tour visits two wineries and includes coffee and pastries for breakfast, a family-style lunch, and plenty of snacks throughout the day. 

This tour is the perfect way to explore Mt. Rainier (and burn some calories) and try some of the excellent wines of the Yakima Valley. 

Ready to roam?

We hope that this list has left you inspired to pack your bags and visit Seattle! As you can see, the city has a ton of amazing things to do and there truly is something for everyone! First-time visitors simply can’t help but gaze in wonder at the national parks, be dazzled by the city skyline, and fall in love with this amazing city Repeat visitors just keep finding more incredible things to see and do.

As always, we would love to hear your feedback, so please let us know if there are any hidden gems that we may have missed! 

If you need more information on the city, make sure to check out our lists of “ The Best Things to Do in Seattle ” and “ The 22 Best Day Trips from Seattle .” We also recommend downloading our adventure app and purchasing tickets for one of our scavenger hunts ! Each experience is a great way to learn more about the city! 

Happy hunting!

Frequently Asked Questions

There are many tours in Seattle and the surrounding areas, and if you’re a wine lover, you can’t miss out on tours of Washington wineries . Try a tour by Bon Vivant or Evergreen Escapes.

If you’re looking for fun in the Emerald City, try any of the Let’s Roam scavenger hunt tours in Seattle . Exciting options include sightseeing , scoping out street art , and spending a night on a bar crawl .

Seattle’s proximity to Puget Sound makes it a prime location for whale-watching tours . Try the Seattle to San Juan Island Whale-Watching Tour from Clipper Vacations or the Puget Sound Express.

If you’re in Western Washington, reserve a day for at least one boat tour in Seattle ! We recommend the Elliott Bay Sea Kayak Tour, dinner on a Waterways Cruise, or a fun Lake Union Hot Tub Boat!

Featured Products & Activities

  • WORK WITH US

Photo Presets

The Mandagies

tour in wa

The Ultimate Twilight Tour in Forks, WA (Make The Books Come Alive!)

Post Summary: Twilight Tour In Forks + locations to visit

If you’ve spent any time as a millennial, chances are you’ve been exposed to the Twilight series , whether by the books or by the movies!

You know the series – the glittering vampires, hunky werewolves, and “Bella, where the hell have you been, loca?”

On our latest Olympic Peninsula road trip , we took the time to relive some of the book memories and scout out the Twilight book locations .

Through this, we put together an easy-to-follow Forks Twilight guide with pictures and even a downloadable map for you!

Ready to nerd our with us?

tour in wa

Set in Forks, Washington, this story follows a mere human, Bella, and her whirlwind romance between a sparkly vampire named Edward and a local werewolf named Jacob.

Through four separate books, you follow the drama that ensues right here in the Pacific Northwest !

In this post, we’re sharing real locations you can visit in Forks, Washington , that are mentioned in the books and movies.

Note: The Twilight filming locations and Twilight book locations vary to some degree. Here, we’re covering book locations in Twilight as described instead of actual filming locations (most of the movies were actually filmed in Oregon) so you purists out there can really get the full experience! Get Ready: The Complete Olympic National Park Packing List

tour in wa

The Ultimate Twilight Road Trip (Forks Twilight Guide)

First of all, where is forks, washington.

Forks, Washington is located on the Olympic Peninsula , about 4 hours away from Seattle, WA and 4.5 hours away from Portland, OR.

It’s a real town, albeit a small one, with a tight-knit community.

Part of a larger trip? Discover 30+ Things To Do In Washington State with a free 10-Day road trip guide!

People and businesses have REALLY embraced the Twilight fandom, and you can see it evident in nearly every store window with cardboard cutouts of Bella and Edward, special Twilight restaurant menus, and commemorative location signs around town.

Since the Twilight Saga was released, tourism to Forks has tripled and greatly increased revenue for the city. Hey, if it works for you, embrace the fandom!

The town is located in one of the rainiest places in the United States, with 1 10 annual inches per year , compared to an average of 38 inches around the United States. Forks, Washington also has an average of 212 rainy days per year.

We can see why vampires would want to pick a place like the PNW – they are protected from the sun practically all year long!

tour in wa

Where to Stay in Forks, Washington

As you follow this Forks Twilight Guide, you might want to stay in town to really soak it all in. Here are a few places we recommend as accommodations in Forks, Washington:

Pacific Inn Motel: This motel is a great place to crash while going through your Twilight Forks Guide. They even have a Twilight-themed room ! It has red walls, movie posters, and some other vampire-themed decorations. The room is quite popular, so make sure to book well in advance if you want to experience it.

Woodland Inns: This is where we stayed during our self-guided Forks Twilight Tour. These are small and separate cabins all in the same lot. They all have two queen beds, a small fully-stocked kitchen, a table, a bathroom, and a fireplace. We found it extremely comfortable and safe, and loved how close to town it was.

Miller Tree Inn : The Miller Tree BnB has actually been named the official Cullen House ! It looks nothing like the modern structure from the movies, but it’s actually very true to Stephanie Meyer’s description of the real Cullen House in the books.

Any Team Jacob fans out there? The Quileute Oceanside Resort is located in La Push, which is right in the center of the history and culture that defines Jacob and his tribe in the books.

Here, you can experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest coastline (First Beach is steps away!) and the thousands of years of indigenous Quileute heritage and history of the area.

A teeny bit farther but still very much in the heart of the moody PNW aesthetic are the Twilight-themed packages from the four unique lodges in Olympic National Park.

Get a third night free at the Lake Quinault Lodge , grab free hot spring passes at Sol Duc Hot Springs , or simply soak in the moody gray skies at Lake Crescent Lodge and their winter cabin rentals.

For more options, read: The Best Places To Stay Near Olympic National Park

Where To Eat In Forks, Washington

Twilight Themed Dining Options

After a day of exploring with our Twilight Tour in Forks, here is some Twilight-inspired cuisine to stick to the theme of your trip.

Bella Italia : Bella Italia is located in Port Angeles, Washington. This is where Bella and Edward had their first date, and you can even order the same meal Bella did – mushroom ravioli. You can find this restaurant downtown by the Black Ball Ferry Terminal.

Sully’s Burgers : Sully’s Burgers offers a signature “Bella Burger” but they also serve things like ice cream and pizza. Sit down or park at the drive-in to eat in between stops on your Twilight tour in Forks!

Pacific Pizza : If you’re staying at the Woodland Inns, they are owned by the same people who own Pacific Pizza – which means free delivery! Pacific Pizza is known for its Italian food and pizza. You can ask for their special “Twilight Menu” if you feel like sticking to the theme of the trip.

Twilight Forks Guide TheMandagies.com

Wait, where was Twilight filmed?

Despite the setting of the book being in Forks, Washington, the majority of the Twilight filming locations were actually in Oregon !

They kept all of the Washington names but ended up filming them off location for the most part. Probably because if you didn’t know any better, Fork’s dripping moss trees and perpetual rain easily make it one of the most haunted places in Washington . Perfect for vampires!

The reason? We’re not sure. Berty and I assume that the locations of the book were a little hard to reach with film crews, so they opted for bigger/grander scenes and easier accessibility in Oregon.

Not to worry though, there are still incredible Twilight book location places to check out here in Forks, which we’re sharing below!

Hoh Rainforest, Olympic National Park

Twilight Book Locations (Addresses and Descriptions)

To make this easy, we’re going to put these Twilight book locations in order to help you plan a seamless Twilight road trip .

This route will take you to all the Forks Twilight locations, the actual spots they were based on, and any other cool spots that commemorate this iconic PNW story!

tour in wa

1. Start Your Twilight Driving Tour in Port Angeles

Seattle to Port Angeles: 82 Miles (2.5-Hours) via Downtown Seattle-Bremerton ferry

Port Angeles is where you can stop to eat, and get the experience of walking around the quaint downtown area. Relive what it might have been like for Bella to go prom dress shopping and go on her first date with Edward.

For a Twilight-themed dinner, book a reservation at Bella Italia and try their mushroom ravioli!

Remember when Bella went prom dress shopping with her friends? The actual filming location for the dress shop was a place called Angel’s Hair Salon, located at 251 1st Street in St. Helens, Oregon . To make it look like a dress shop, they just hung dressed near the window!

tour in wa

2. The Treaty Line

Port Angeles to the Treaty Line: 2-hour drive, 62 miles.

On the way into Forks and to La Push Beaches, you’ll drive past the Treaty Line, Located at 7764 La Push Rd, Forks .

This is where the vampires and werewolves agreed that the Cullens will not cross onto their tribal lands . It’s supposedly a treaty that has been intact for centuries.

Tip: It’s located on the side of the road, but please don’t try and park next to it ! The Three Rivers Resort has a parking lot just past it, so park there instead and walk up to the sign from there to snap a picture!

tour in wa

3. Jacob Black’s House

Just past the Treaty Line is Jacob Black’s house, located at 8320 La Push Rd .

It’s right off the road and you can easily miss it if you aren’t looking ! If you choose to stop, please be courteous, as people may be occupying the house.

Rent this place for real if you are interested in sticking to the theme of your Twilight tour in Forks!

tour in wa

4. La Push Beaches (First, Second, and Third)

Just a little over an hour’s drive away from Port Angeles is La Push. “La Push Baby!”

La Push actually consists of three beaches, aptly named First, Second, and Third Beach.

While the Twilight series isn’t specific as to which beach it was, we can guess that it was probably First Beach . First Beach is the most accessible from the La Push and Quileute Reservation.

You can easily drive right up to the shore in an open parking lot, and take a walk along the shore.

Movie Fact: The actual beach they filmed at wasn’t even any of the La Push beaches! It was actually filmed in Indian Beach Oregon, close to Crescent Beach in Ecola State Park .

tour in wa

5. Quileute Community

Stephanie Meyer wrote in the werewolves to reflect significantly on the Pacific Northwest tribe, the Quileute Community, for Jacob Black’s clan.

According to ancient Quileute lore, their creation story includes the community originating from wolves and being changed to humans by a wandering Transformer.

Today, the community is recognized for its fishing abilities, specifically with sea mammals, seals, and fish.

To learn more about the rich history of the Quileute People in this area of Forks, please read more here .

tour in wa

6. Forks Community Hospital (Dr Cullen’s Parking Spot)

Remember Carlisle is a doctor? Well, he’s got a reserved parking spot just for him at the local Forks hospital!

Forks Community Hospital is located at 530 Bogachiel Way, Forks, WA 98331 . The sign is a little bit hard to find at first. Look for it near the administration building on 5th street.

Continuing your Forks Twilight Guide back into town, you can stop by the Forks Community Hospital . Here, you can find a parking sign specifically saved for Dr. Carlisle Cullen.

This is a cheeky way to reference the book, however, this was not the filming location of the hospital! It’s just a tribute to Carlisle and his medical practice. 🙂

tour in wa

7. Forks High School

If I’m being completely honest, Fork High School was probably the most disappointing stop on our Twilight tour in Forks.

The school itself is not disappointing – it’s actually very modern and a state-of-the-art building. But it’s definitely not the historic brick structure that we see in the movies. Quite the opposite! (That’s what I was expecting!)

You can still visit the outside of the school, but keep in mind that it’s a functioning place , with children present during school hours. Don’t be a weirdo and drive around or take photos when kids are outside!

Searching for the high school in the films? Kalama High School is where “Forks High School in the Twilight movies was filmed.

The address is 548 China Garden Rd, Kalama, WA 98625, about a 4-hour drive from Forks near Portland, Oregon)

tour in wa

7. The Swan Residence (Charlie and Bella Swan’s House)

The self-proclaimed Swan Residence from the book series is located at 775 K St, Forks, WA 98331 .

The owners erected a cute sign out in front to honor people’s Twilight tour in Forks, and you can spot an Edward cutout upstairs in the window!

Remember though, this is someone’s real house , so be respectful and just take pictures from the street. DON’T peek in the windows!

Looking for the Swan Residence from the Twilight movies? You can actually rent in on Airbnb in St. Helens, Oregon !

tour in wa

8. Forks Chamber of Commerce (Bella’s Truck)

Address: Forks Visitor Information Center, 1411 S Forks Ave, Forks

The first thing you’ll see when approaching the Forks Chamber of Commerce is not one but TWO red trucks ! These are the ones she drove in both the books and the movies. (Notice the cute “Bella” license plate!)

Generally, the opening hours for the Visitors Center are from 10 am-5 pm daily . They really lean into the Twilight theme (as do a lot of businesses in town) and you can purchase lots of Twilight souvenirs inside.

During your Twilight tour in Forks, the best chance of getting some good photo ops alone is in the mornings. This way, you can avoid the lunchtime crowds!

tour in wa

9. The Cullen House (From the Books)

Address: 654 E Division St, Forks, WA 98331

Another large division between the books and the movies is the location and description of The Cullen Residence.

In the movies, you’ll recognize the Cullen House by its flashy, modern, PNW architecture style. In the Twilight books, however, it’s quite the opposite!

The Cullen House in the books is a 100-year old white farmhouse with tons of character. This particular house (pictured above) matched the description from the books so well, that they proclaimed themselves the “official” Cullen house of Forks.

The owners pay tribute to the books by adding the Cullen name on their mailbox. For guests that come and visit, you can spot Carlilse’s office and the graduation cap artwork from the movies. Sometimes, Esme will leave notes on the board in the lobby, and occasionally the table is set Twilight-themed.

It’s a great stop, and and even better place to stay during your Twilight tour in Forks!

Want to see the Cullen House that was filmed for the movies? It’s a private residence. But you can still drive by and peek from the street.

10. Forks Police Station

The Forks Police station, located at 500 E Division St in Forks is where Charlie Swan would have worked.

They used to have a whole tribute and display to Charlie Swan , but it’s currently gone now. If you’re short on time during our Twilight tour in Forks, this is probably the one to skip.

If you DO visit, keep in mind that this is an actively working police station. In not sure if they would give you any tour or souvenirs if you visit the inside, but’s it’s worth a shot for your hardcore fans out there.

The Hoh Rainforest - Twilight Tour in Forks

11. The Hoh Rainforest

Want to relive those moody scenes of Bella and Edward in the rainforest?

Most of the filming locations were in Oregon, but the true essence of the rain and greenery were inspired by the Hoh Rainforest !

To really immerse yourself, take a walk the iconic Hall of Mosses Trail , an easy 1-mile loop. It’s got stunning views of the dropping moss, green ferns, and smells of the rainforest.

Don’t forget your American The Beautiful Pass – this trail is in the Olympic National Park .

Don’t have a pass? Expect to pay the $30 day entrance fee to enter the park.

12. Forever Twilight

Address: 35 N Forks Ave, Forks, WA

If you want to see costumes, props, and other items from the movies , you have to visit the Forever Twilight Gallery ! It’s a free gallery to come and check out in the Rainforest Art Center.

They set this gallery up for tons of photo ops. The gallery includes a variety of things, like gifts from Italy (From the Volturi!) and Forks-centric items. They even have the animatronic baby used to play Renesmee!

This is a perfect stop for serious Twilight book fans . Want another great Twilight place to check out? Discover Native To Twilight Gifts Shop , located at 10 N Forks Ave, Forks, WA 98331.

Hoh Rainforest - Olympic National Park

FAQs about Twilight Tours in Forks

How long does it take to do a twilight tour in forks.

A self-guided Twilight Tour is Forks will take you a few hours for the in-town spots . All the Forks Twilight locations are pretty close to one another, Forks is not a big place!

If you are starting from Port Angeles, with a La Push beach stop during the day, plan for your Twilight Tour to take the entire day. (It’s worth it, we promise!)

Is there an “Official” Twilight Tour in Forks?

As far as we know, there isn’t an “official” Twilight Tour in Forks.

However, The Forks Chamber of Commerce has made their own town map for self-guided tours.

Often, local tour groups will have their own version of a Forks Twilight Tour. There’s no correct one – just book one that looks fun to you!

Where Are The Twilight Filming Locations

Okay, so what about the Twilight filming locations? Where can I visit to re-live scenes from the movies?

Lucky for you, lots of these Twilight film locations are in our beloved Pacific Northwest!

It’s going to take more than a day to see all of them though (and even more if you wanted to travel all the way to Brazil and Italy!).

Spend time browsing the list, and decide which ones you want to add to your Twilight Road Trip.

Twilight Filming Locations

  • Baseball Game Scene : Near Multnomah Falls
  • Bella’s Arizona House : 22301 Cataro Drive Santa Clarita, CA
  • Bella’s Ballet Studio : Yale Union Building, 800 SE 10th Avenue, Portland
  • Bella Italia : Bloated Toad Cafe in St. Helens
  • Carver Cafe: Damascus, Oregon (Where Bella and Charlie have burgers and fries)
  • Columbia River Crossing Scenes: Bridge of the Gods, Cascade Locks / Bonneville Dam
  • The Cullen House : 3333 NW Quimby St. Portland, Oregon (Private)
  • Forks High School Exterior : Kalama High School in Kalama, Washington
  • Forks High School Interior: Madison High School in Portland Oregon 
  • Forks Scenes:  Vernonia, Oregon (which is one of the most haunted forests in Oregon !)
  • La Push Beach Scenes: Near Cannon Beach at Indian Beach & Ecola State Park
  • Lion& Lamb Scene , Edward Reveal Vampire : Stone Cliff Inn at 17900 S Clackamas River Drive, Oregon City
  • Port Angeles Scenes : St Helens, Oregon downtown
  • Prom : View Point Inn at Crown Point on East Larch Mountain Road, Corbett, OR
  • Rainforest Scenes : Outside Silverton Oregon in Silver Falls State Park
  • Sitting In The Trees ; Cape Horn Lookout, Washougal Washington
  • Say It, Out Loud scene : Oxbow Regional Park 3010 SE Oxbow Parkway Gresham, Oregon
  • Spider Monkey / Climbing Tree Scenes : Columbia River Gorge , OR
  • The Swan House : 184 S 6th St, St Helens (Airbnb)

Heads Up : Most New Moon filming locations, Eclipse filming locations, and Breaking Dawn filling locations were done near Vancouver, BC!

Self-Guided Forks Twilight Tour Map

Looking for an easy-to-follow Forks Twilight Tour Map? We’ve made a Google map with all the locations! Click here to see our Forks Twilight map , to start your journey.

We’ve also included the Forks Twilight locations (in blue), and Oregon filming locations (in yellow) in case you wanted to extend your Twilight tour in Forks!

Forks Twilight Map

Have you ever taken a Twilight tour in Forks? Did we miss any stops along the way? Let us know in the comments!

The Ultimate Twilight Tour In Forks Washington

AAA Logo

Northwest Scenic Train Rides and Museums

Scenic rides, vintage trains and unique rail museums.

Train travel was once the way many saw the region, leisurely sitting and looking outside as the train rumbled down the tracks to destinations crisscrossing the Pacific Northwest states. Today, only a handful of these once numerous railroads have passenger capabilities, but railroads deliver an unforgettable experience.

There is no denying that the Pacific Northwest is a wonderland, but as we zip to and fro in cars, attentive and responsible motorists may often miss some of the more subtle nuances of the terrain. With hands at 10 and two, and a focus on the road and the cars all around, drivers may miss the towering stands of evergreens, the rolling hills, the glaciated peaks or the rugged geology of the ancient flood lands. Thankfully, there is a way to see the breathtaking landscape — the scenic train rides of Washington.

Cascade Tunnel West Portal

Leavenworth in Winter and Beyond

One of the classic, scenic train rides in Western Washington is the route to the Bavarian-inspired mountain town of Leavenworth . Passing into the rugged Cascade Mountains, skirting Highway 2 and the Skykomish River, riders will be in awe at the natural beauty of the region. Towering peaks and dense forests are visible from the train, but for many, the highlight before reaching Leavenworth is passing through the Cascade Tunnel, an 8-mile-long tunnel that is one of the longest in North America.

Amtrak’s Empire Builder is an option for a scenic trip to Leavenworth any time of the year. Be aware that there are no day-trip options, however. A layover of a day or more in Leavenworth may be required to make this a round-trip train ride. The Empire Builder also allows riders to go to Leavenworth from Spokane.

(In December, a local tour operator also charters an Amtrak train that leaves Seattle for Leavenworth each Saturday, giving riders a chance to bask in the town’s renowned holiday celebration. After a scenic train ride, passengers can partake in the festivities during the annual Christmas Lighting Festival before heading back to Seattle.)

AAA Travel Tip: Interested in rail travel? Chat with a  AAA Travel agent  and get expert help planning an incredible vacation.

Glacier National Park

The Empire Builder runs a much longer journey from Seattle to Chicago, and it passes through jaw-dropping landscapes as it crosses the northern part of the country. One doesn’t have to go all the way to Chicago, though. The train stops at Glacier National Park, giving passengers a chance to get off and see the sights of this wondrous park before returning back home a few days later.

Train Model at the Northern Cascade Railway Museum

For a change of pace and scale, head up to Highway 2 and visit the Great Northern and Cascade Railway in Skykomish. Located at a fully restored 1898 Great Northern Railway Depot, this is a unique stop for all ages. What makes it so special is the free train rides on a 1/8-scale train around a 0.5-mile track to enjoy.

The train runs from May through October, and the museum is open five days a week (closed on Tuesday and Wednesday). With an emphasis on the history of the Great Northern Railway, stopping here lets visitors experience and learn about the region’s rail history.

Snoqualmie Valley and Falls

Off of Interstate 90 at North Bend, a short, scenic railway adventure awaits. Starting at the North Bend Depot , the Snoqualmie Valley Railroad traverses through the Upper Snoqualmie Valley all the way to views of the iconic Snoqualmie Falls. From historic railroad coaches, passengers can take in the sights of the lower Cascades along a 5.5-mile stretch of railway that has been used since the 1880s.

Trains depart for this roughly 2-hour roundtrip ride on weekends from April through November, with a number of special themed rides around holidays. A Yuletide Express and Santa Train also make 25-minute and 2-hour holiday excursions, respectively, on select dates in late November and December. Consider staying in the area and exploring the Northwest Railway museums along the route, located at multiple spots in the Snoqualmie Valley.

The Peninsular

Shelton’s the Peninsular

Scenic rides aren’t just limited to trips around the Cascades. Out on the Olympic Peninsula near Shelton, the Peninsular Railway and Lumbermen’s Museum is one of the newest scenic train ride and museum locations in Washington. Riders and visitors to the museum are able to learn about the rich logging history of Mason County by touring the rail lines at the old Simpson Timber dry lot. The current ride around the industrial park is approximately 2.25 miles and takes 20 minutes. Longer rides are being planned, with hopes to get passengers deeper into the woods of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula.

Chehalis-Centralia Railroad and Museum

Along the I-5 corridor, the Chehalis-Centralia Railroad and Museum should not be missed. The rides grant passengers glimpses of Mount Rainier, passing over wooden bridges and rolling through forests next to the Chehalis River. This is a gorgeous ride along a scenic route pulled by a 100-year-old steam engine . There are also numerous themed rides, including a Murder Mystery Train, a Wild West Train, a Mother’s Day Train and a Santa Holiday Train.

Vintage Train at Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad

One of the classic scenic train rides in Washington is at the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad in Elbe. The passenger train service, pulled by historic steam engines, runs along the heritage railroad to the Mount Rainier Railroad and Logging Museum. The museum and rides are closed for the foreseeable future because of COVID-19 and other complications, but should be visited when it reopens for the fun rides and seasonal events it hosts.

In August 2022, the railroad announced it had formed a new board of directors and was developing a phased reopening plan, with the ultimate goal of restoring several steam locomotives, restarting the railroad operations and building a new museum. More updates will be published here .

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad

Down in Yacolt, under the watchful eye of Mount Saint Helens, the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad has a number of themed rides through mid-December, including fall leaf peeping, Halloween-themed and patriot rides, and special Christmas excursions. The train follows the old lumber and passenger line, which was started in 1888, and is a favorite of train enthusiasts.

Vance Creek Railriders

Vance Creek Railriders (Self-Propelled)

If you have ever wanted to travel down railroad tracks at your speed, the Vance Creek Railriders near Shelton, Washington, is ready. Following a line of track laid by the Simpson Logging Co., this ride is unlike anything else around. Instead of sitting back on a train car, passengers are part of the action as they help to pedal a multi-seat, open-air, human-powered vehicle.  

The 2-hour, 13-mile round-trip journey passes through forests and winds along and passes over Goldsborough Creek. The adventures into the Olympic Peninsula start at the end of May and run three times a day, Thursday through Monday, until October.

Railroad Depot building in Ritzville, WA

Not-to-Miss Train Museums

Although scenic rides are only located in a few spots around the region, the impact of train travel and commerce is readily apparent at the numerous train museums of North Idaho and Eastern Washington. The Northern Pacific Depot Museum in Wallace, Idaho, is an incredible glimpse into the region when driving along Interstate 90. Located in an old chateau-style depot building, the museum details the rich railroad, mining and history of Wallace and the surrounding Silver Valley.

In Eastern Washington, the Railroad Depot Museum in Ritzville is a good stop while out exploring the Palouse. While Ritzville is off the beaten path today, at one time the town was frequented by up to 10 passenger trains a day. Today, the museum houses historical displays inside, while a colorful caboose sits outside.

West of Spokane along Highway 2, near the small town of Reardan, is a can’t-miss for train enthusiasts. At the Inland NW Rail Museum , visitors will find a huge collection of engines, diner cars, boxcars and railroad vehicles of all ages, shapes and sizes. Inside, the museum houses model railroads and numerous displays about the railroad history of the Inland Empire. The museum is open seasonally, so check before you go.

Two more train museums, the Northern Pacific Railway Museum in Toppenish and the Yakima Valley Trolleys’ Electric Railway Museum, an electric railway museum in Yakima, are excellent stops.

–Written by Douglas Scott, last updated in October 2022 .

–Top image is a view of Glacier National Park as seen from the Empire Builder

icon tips star

Road Trip Tips

Before you go: Get ready for your road trip with a AAA Membership . Get peace-of-mind on the road plus travel and insurance services and much more.

Save on hotels and rental cars: Unlock savings on hotels with a AAA membership. Plus, AAA members save up to 20% with Hertz .

Save on car insurance: AAA members save up to 8% on car insurance .

Get battery service: AAA Mobile Battery Service uses state-of-the-art technology to accurately diagnose battery-related problems. We’ll even replace your battery with a brand-new one if necessary, at a special member price.

Save with AAA member discounts: AAA membership gives you access to exclusive entertainment discounts nationwide.

Talk with a AAA Travel Advisor

Share this post.

Travel Ad Banner

Featured Stories

Woodinville, Washington wine pouring

Woodinville Getaway: Pair Wine with Adventure

summer at crystal mountain

Summer at Crystal Mountain Is Filled with Adventure

Get discount sports tickets at AAA Tickets.

Get Discount Sports Tickets with AAA

tour in wa

Explore Ireland Off the Beaten Path

A woman rides an e-bike in the mountains to illustrate e-bike popularity,

All You Need to Know About E-Bikes 

Two boys look at a glass cylinder at the Mobius Discovery Center

10 Great Washington State Children’s Museums 

TripCanvas Ad Banner

Find more ways to get the most out of your travel experience

Products & services.

  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Financial Services
  • Approved Auto Repair
  • Roadside Assistance
  • Auto Club App
  • Store Locations
  • Traffic Safety
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Become a Provider
  • Renew Membership
  • Upgrade Membership
  • Find Discounts
  • Maps & Tourbooks
  • Visit Another Club

Copyright © 2022 AAA Washington. All Rights Reserved. | Privacy Policy | Website Terms of Use | Membership Terms & Conditions

Our Territory: AAA Washington proudly serves AAA members residing in Washington & Northern Idaho. Products and services may vary depending upon your geographic location. Restrictions apply. AAA membership is subject to terms and conditions. See the membership terms for further details.

Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC. App Store® and the App Store® logo are trademarks of Apple Inc.

tour in wa

Sightseeing Tours

Want to get your bearings before exploring the city or hoping to get an insider’s perspective during your trip whether you’re a history buff looking to learn how settlers got all the way to this corner of the country, an adventure enthusiast itching for an outdoor activity, or a photographer wanting to capture aerial images of the iconic skyline, there’s a seattle sightseeing tour for you..

tour in wa

Underground Tour Courtesy of Underground Tour

While the Great Seattle Fire in 1889 wasn’t a happy occasion, it did give Seattle the opportunity to rebuild—which was a fortunate thing, given that the original downtown was prone to flooding due to its proximity to Elliott Bay. As the city rebuilt everything above previous street levels, an entire underground world was born. Today, you can explore its passageways in Pioneer Square on Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour or Beneath the Streets . Both tours offer a healthy dose of history and a walk below ground.

tour in wa

Courtesy Argosy Cruises

Water World

Water is a huge part of Seattle’s story, and what better way to explore its marine history than by going to the source itself? Argosy Cruises has five tour options, including its signature Harbor Cruise. This one-hour trip follows the shoreline of Elliott Bay, getting a closer look at the container ships, cruise ships, and harbor seals that ply the Puget Sound waters. Sailing Seattle puts you on a high-performance racing yacht for a relaxing, wind-in-your-hair journey. Waterways Cruises and Events focuses on dining cruises aboard its 105-foot-long yacht, like the Sunday Supper Cruise that takes a spin around Lake Union and Lake Washington while guests enjoy a buffet stocked with sockeye salmon and apple crisp.

Urban Landscapes

A red bus moves along the street under the ornate Chinatown Gate in Seattle.

City Sightseeing Tours

Once you shed your sea legs, there’s plenty to see back on land. Because Seattle is a forward-thinking city, it’s only appropriate to explore on Segways, two-wheeled transportation devices that make it easy for you to zip from the waterfront to Pioneer Square and Pike Place Market to Seattle Center, under the guidance of Seattle Segway Tours . Or go at your own pace with City Sightseeing Seattle , a hop-on/hop-off open-top bus that circles around to 16 of the city’s top sites and attractions. If you want to get a little farther out of town, Tours Northwest can whisk you away in a mini-coach to Mount Rainier, in addition to three-hour tours around the city. With longtime tour operator Show Me Seattle , see the city in a small group, or taste your way through Pike Place Market. Cruise passengers, take note: There are special offerings for you from all the shuttle bus companies.

tour in wa

Kenmore Air Courtesy of Kenmore Air

Take Flight

Make like a bird and embark on a scenic “flightseeing” tour for a whole different perspective of Seattle. For a floatplane experience you can’t get just anywhere, Kenmore Air and Seattle Seaplanes both offer 20-minute tours spent soaring past the sports stadiums, famed houseboat communities, and the distinct towers of downtown before landing gently back on Lake Union. Swap the water rudders for a giant propeller and take in the scenery via helicopter with Seattle HeliTours , which offers three routes leaving from Auburn Municipal Airport, and Georgetown-based Atomic Helicopters , with four itineraries covering the city, Snoqualmie Falls, Lake Washington, and marinas of Puget Sound. For an intimate, luxurious experience, book a semi-private or private hot air balloon ride with Seattle Ballooning to get a birds-eye view of downtown Seattle and Mt. Rainier, topped off with a champagne toast at the end of the flight.

Human Powered

It’s great to explore by boat, shuttle, and plane, but sometimes you just want to keep it simple. Get around on your own two feet with the Seattle Free Walking Tours , which cover four topics: Pike Place Market, historic Seattle, and the city’s highlights. As the name implies, there are no high ticket prices here—pay what you feel it’s worth. Those with a particular interest in design will want to check out the walking tours from Seattle Architecture Foundation . With these, you can take a deeper dive into specific subjects like art deco and design details. Combine your history tour with a sweat session from Seattle Bicycle Tours , which has plenty of options for both guided tours on electric or standard bicycles. Keep the human-powered transportation theme going by getting out on the water with Alki Kayak Tours , offering paddles during the day, at sunset, and during every full moon. The particularly adventurous can take an overnight camping trip to Blake Island, where you can explore the forest trails and beaches after paddling across the Puget Sound for a perfect Northwest day.

Tour Partners

Whale Plane

Whale Plane

  • Address 950 Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
  • Phone (360) 378-1323

Nightly Spirits Ghost Tours

Nightly Spirits Ghost Tours

  • Address 1415 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
  • Phone (844) 678-8687

Crystal Seas Kayaking

Crystal Seas Kayaking

  • Address 40 Spring St, Friday Harbor, WA 98250
  • Phone (360) 378-4223

Alki Kayak Tours

Alki Kayak Tours

  • Address 1660 Harbor Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98126
  • Phone (206) 935-7669

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SEATTLE LOCALIST

Seattle’s best every month in your inbox.

  • OPT-IN: By clicking the "Subscribe" button, I agree to receive emails from Visit Seattle and that I have read and agree to the Visit Seattle Privacy Policy .
  • Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Book Your Trip

Partner Advertisements

Use code HOLIDAY23 to save 25% on Seattle City Tours - valid on tours thru April 31, 2024

Tours Northwest

  • Most Popular

PREMIER SEATTLE CITY TOUR BUS

SPACIOUS COACH BUS TOURS OF SEATTLE CITY

Quick Details

  • Users Ages: Ages 3+
  • Hour Glass Duration: 3 hours
  • Tag Schedule: January 1 - December 31

Seattle City Tour By Bus

Seattle is so much more than just the Space Needle and Starbucks, but you might never discover what makes this city so unique without one of our expert local guides giving you an insider’s perspective on a Seattle tour.

As you ride in comfort up and down the steep downtown hills in a specialized minibus built specifically for sightseeing tours, you’ll be thankful not to be climbing the hills on foot.

Uncover Seattle’s secrets, such as why there’s an underground city beneath the Pioneer Square neighborhood and how the price of onions created the iconic Pike Place Market.

Our nearly 50-mile Seattle tour route will also take you far outside the city center to explore unique neighborhoods such as eccentric Fremont, the self-described “center of the universe” where you can meet its most famous resident, the 18-foot-tall Fremont Troll.  You’ll also witness the bustling maritime activity of the Fisherman’s Terminal and Ballard Locks , which carry more boat traffic than any other lock in the U.S.

Our friendly and knowledgeable licensed guides are the reason we’ve received TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for 11 years running and over 2,000 5-star reviews.

If you’ve just arrived, this is the perfect introduction to Seattle’s must-see landmarks, helping you learn what’s worth your time and how to navigate the city, but even lifelong residents are surprised to discover hidden gems and fascinating stories they never knew.

If you are looking for a 3-hour Seattle City Tour with hotel pickup, please see:

Seattle City Tour PLUS Hotel Pickup

  • Chevron down Potential Sites Seen on Tour Route

Seattle bus tours!  Sit back and relax in spacious coaches as our knowledgeable guides present Seattle’s neighborhoods and attractions.

  • Pike Place Market
  • Olympic & Cascade mountain views
  • Seattle waterfront
  • Historic Pioneer Square
  • Waterfall Garden Park
  • Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
  • T-Mobile Park & Lumen Field
  • Chinatown and International District
  • Starbucks Headquarters
  • Lake Washington
  • I-90 Floating Bridge
  • Mercer Island
  • Puget Sound views
  • Panoramic Seattle city views
  • Fremont neighborhood & Troll
  • Lake Union & Ship Canal
  • Fishermen’s Terminal
  • Ballard Locks/salmon ladder
  • Discovery Park
  • Space Needle
  • Seattle Center & MoPOP
  • Chevron down Transportation Details & Considerations

Transportation Details

  • Meeting location pick-ups commence prior to the tour’s departure time. You should receive an updated email confirmation that includes your meeting location’s pick-up time in the Pickup Location section. If your confirmation doesn’t include your pick up information, contact our office immediately to confirm your pick-up time.
  • Please allow up to 5 minutes for your driver to pick you up from your scheduled pickup time. As well, allow extra time for  return.
  • Please note that traffic and weather conditions can affect the routes for this tour. Traffic can be a challenge in Seattle, especially from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. Please allow for additional time for drop-off during these hours.

Considerations

  • Gratuities are optional and not included in the price of your tour. If you feel your tour guide has provided an exceptional experience, gratuities are encouraged — and welcomed — at the end of the trip.
  • Seattle City Tour Bus itineraries are subject to change depending on conditions and group dynamics, but rest assured that your guide’s expertise will maximize what you can see, learn, and experience with limited time.

Seattle Bus Tour Booking Instructions

When you’re ready to book, select your date and tour you have in mind to the right. After selecting the number of guests in your party, your pickup options will appear.

The first dropdown menu will ask which hotel you’re staying with; if you don’t see your hotel listed, you’ll select “Not Staying at Listed Hotel”.

A second dropdown menu will then appear. This is where you choose your meeting location:

  • Seattle Public Library: 1000 4th Ave Seattle, WA (Pickup is 25 minutes before tour start time)
  • Midtown: 1900 4th Ave Seattle, WA (Pickup is 15 minutes before tour start time)
  • MoPop Pickup: 325 5th Ave N Seattle, WA (Pickup is 5 minutes before tour start time)

Plan to arrive to your meeting location 5 minutes ahead of the scheduled pickup time. You’ll want to be on the lookout for a white mini coach that says Tours Northwest. Give our office a call if you haven’t been picked up 5 minutes past your scheduled pickup time: 206-768-1234

Seattle City Tour FAQ

  • Chevron down What hotels do you pick up at?

We have 2 tours that offer hotel pickup from most downtown Seattle hotels: Seattle City Tour PLUS Hotel Pickup and our Seattle City Tour & Cruise Transportation .

Our Premier 3-hour City Tour and our Mt. Rainier Tour offer 3 meeting locations within a short walk of most downtown hotels:

  • Midtown: 1900 4th Ave Seattle, WA in front of the Urban Coffeehouse (Pickup is 15 minutes before tour start time)

Plan to arrive at your meeting location 5 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. You’ll want to be on the lookout for a white mini-coach that says Tours Northwest.

  • Chevron down Why don’t you pick up directly at my hotel?

Downtown Seattle has such unpredictable and dynamic traffic conditions that offering hotel pickups on our standard tours (with up to 20 people who could all be staying at different hotels) would take valuable time away from the time we have for the tour.  We have 4 departure points, each very centrally located and very simple to get to, which makes it easier for everyone and means that we don’t waste any precious tour time doing multiple pickups around Seattle, one of which is likely just a few minutes walk from your hotel.  Feel free to contact us directly if you need further guidance on which pickup location is best for you, and if you haven’t yet chosen your accommodations, you can always let us know later.

In addition, if you do need door-to-door service, we offer a Premium City Tour and Pre-Cruise Tour for an additional fee which includes this service – the smaller group size of these tours allows us to pick up at hotels without anyone needing to be on the bus for an unreasonably long time.

  • Chevron down What is the best way to get from SeaTac to downtown Seattle?

The easiest option is to take an Uber, Lyft, or taxi to your pickup location (Our Seattle Public Library picku p option is the closest to SeaTac).

Another less expensive option is to take the Link light rail from the Airport or Angle Lake station towards the University of Washington Station and exit at the Westlake Stop. When you exit, take the escalator upstairs to get to the street level.  Head north on 4th Avenue to our Midtown pickup at 1900 4th Ave Seattle, WA in front of the Urban Yoga Spa (Pickup is 10 minutes before tour start time)

  • Chevron down Where can I park my vehicle in downtown Seattle?

If you’re driving into town to meet up with a tour, we recommend meeting us at our MoPOP pickup location and parking near here.  Next to this pickup location is the Republic Parking (Memorial Stadium Lot) located on 401 5th Ave N, Seattle WA 9109 is right next to our MoPop pickup (they offer a $10 all-day rate if you’re in before 9am)

Other options include:

Pacific Place Garage located at 600 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101 is two blocks from our Midtown pickup at 1900 4th Ave Seattle, WA, and has lower hourly rates than most downtown garages

On weekends (and after 4pm weekdays), take advantage of FREE Parking in the Amazon Doppler Building Garage located at 2021 7th Ave (7am – 2am) – this is about a 5 minute walk from our Midtown pickup at 1900 4th Ave Seattle, WA

  • Chevron down Why should I book directly through your website?

All availability on our website is live and up to date – you’ll get instant confirmation after booking.  Booking on our website also opens a direct line of communication so we can let you know about any important information or changes regarding your tour.  Booking direct cuts out the middle man, which means we can spend more money on making your experience perfect while keeping our prices as low as possible for you. We guarantee to offer the lowest prices directly – if you find a tour operated by us anywhere else advertised for cheaper – we will refund the difference.

  • Chevron down How do I know which bus is yours?

All of our tour buses are white and marked with Tours Northwest on the front or side.  Our drivers should be wearing a yellow shirt or jacket that says Tours Northwest and will be looking for you by name.

  • Chevron down Do I need to bring a printed voucher or copy of my confirmation?

If you book directly on our website or over the phone, a printed voucher or confirmation will not be needed. Our tour guides will check you in by name prior to boarding the bus.

  • Chevron down Is there a bathroom on the bus?

None of our mini-coaches are equipped with bathrooms, but our guides make every effort to provide opportunities for a public restroom every 60-90 minutes during our tours.

  • Chevron down Can I bring a wheelchair/stroller/luggage?

It may be possible to accommodate a folding wheelchair/stroller/some luggage, but we have limited storage space, so please get in touch with your requirements before booking so that we can advise accordingly.

  • Chevron down Do you have wheelchair-accessible buses?

We have a 12-passenger wheelchair-accessible bus that requires a minimum 7 days’ notice to reserve and is based on the availability of tours. We can only accommodate the wheelchair lift bus on our Seattle City Tour PLUS Hotel Pickup. If you will only have a folding wheelchair, it can be stored on any of our buses with advanced notice.

  • Chevron down What should I do if I'm running late to my pickup?

Unfortunately, we cannot wait for more than a minute or two past the pickup time at any of our pickup locations. Please contact our office at 206-768-1234 as soon as you are aware you’ll be running late to discuss your options. There are no refunds available if you are not at your designated pickup location at the pickup time.

  • Chevron down What is your cancellation policy?

We understand that sometimes plans change or things come up. We offer full refunds on all tours canceled at least 24 hours in advance of the tour’s start time.  There are no refunds in the 24 hours leading up to the tour. For private tours, we ask for a minimum of 48 hours notice for a full refund.

RELATED ACTIVITIES

  • January 1 - December 31
  • Hour Glass 3 hours
  • Users All ages

Seattle City Tour Package PLUS Hotel Pickup

Combine our 3-hour Seattle City Tour with luxury hotel pickup and drop off!

  • April 1 - October 31
  • Users Ages 3+

Pre-Alaska Cruise Transportation and City Tour

Make the most of your time and money by combining tour and transportation with our Pre-Cruise City Tour! It also includes a 3-hour tour of Seattle. Consider this tour your Seattle hotel cruise port shuttle, with local culture added on top.

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Western Australia Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through Western Australia. We've got 150 trips going to Western Australia, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 27 days. The most popular month to go is July, which has the most tour departures.

150 Western Australia tour packages with 158 reviews

7 Day Perth to Exmouth Explorer Loop Tour

  • Coach / Bus

7 Day Perth to Exmouth Explorer Loop

Carlos and Bree were wonderful, helpful and informative. I can always tell a good tour by the level I have to think/plan/organize for myself- and I can say this was a true stress-free vacation because those two did all the invisible mental energy it takes to have a fruitful holiday. When planning on this holiday, I was contemplating whether to do an East coast or West coast tour (not a wrong choice either way!) and I am glad I did this one as I think it seems the tour less travelled, less “touristy” but it showed so much diversity in experiences (desert, national parks, and stunning protected reefs). The hostels were all good enough for the cost I paid. The food we prepared was delicious (wraps for lunch, and a nice cooked meal for dinner.) Breakfast was cereal and so I was relieved to bring my own protein shakes as I need something more substantial in the mornings. Cheers!

6 Day Perth to Exmouth Coral Coaster (One Way) Tour

6 Day Perth to Exmouth Coral Coaster (One Way)

The tour was good, Carla was very helpful and organised with all the spots, walks, breaks. The accomodation was very disappointing, First day booking communication was very confusing almost stayed in a room with no electricity and hot water. We also needed to share bathroom for a few days, the coral bay accomodation was different from the itinerary, no ensuite but a only public bathroom with the whole building. tried to contact Autopia but no response so far on that email for an explanation after many days. The total cost for accomodation (upgraded) is less than $500 based on the market price on the hotel websites but we paid $800 in total, not to say there should’ve been about $30 per day budget covered in the basic price.

Best of Perth, Margaret River & Rottnest Island Tour

  • Christmas & New Year

Best of Perth, Margaret River & Rottnest Island

The Great Kimberley Overland Tour

  • In-depth Cultural

The Great Kimberley Overland

This tour was just amazing! We saw amazing and beautiful spots of western Australia. The Tourguides made this tour awesome. They help whereever they could, were always in a good mood and made this adventure for all of us spezial.

Untamed Kimberley (11 Days) Tour

Untamed Kimberley (11 Days)

Carolyn was very knowledgeable about the area. Loved her stories particularly about our indigenous Australians for which I now have a better understanding of what they have had to endure since the arrival of people from overseas.
  • €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

5 Day Broome to the Bungle Bungles Tour

5 Day Broome to the Bungle Bungles

My partner Iouri and I enjoyed the 5-day Bungle Bungles tour operated by Kimberley Wild Expeditions. Emma and Daz were our tour guides who were very organised and helpful, Special thanks to Emma, who handled the truck breakdown very well. She organised meditation, exercises and morning walks for us. She cooked great dinners as well. We are both grateful for the amazing experience that they provided to us.

4 Day Albany, ANZAC, Tree Top Walk and Margaret River Tour

4 Day Albany, ANZAC, Tree Top Walk and Margaret River

The tour was excellent. Good direction at the departure site, great rhythms to the days of hitting all the significant tourist stops there and back, super lodging—AND best of all Lee, the driver/tour-leader. He is a star—affable/friendly, informative/knowledgable, hard-at-work in the background so all goes smoothly: ten out of five. I would definitely take another Pinnacle Tour.

Perth to Exmouth & Return Tour

Perth to Exmouth & Return

The tour was all in all amazing. I would have loved to stay at a few stops a bit longer then 20 minutes, but I definitely recommend this tour!

Australia’s West Coast & Ningaloo Reef – 8 Day Boutique Comfort Tour Tour

Australia’s West Coast & Ningaloo Reef – 8 Day Boutique Comfort Tour

Monkey Mia Dolphins and West Coast (2024/2025, 5 Days) Tour

Monkey Mia Dolphins and West Coast (2024/2025, 5 Days)

Perth to Broome Adventure Tour

  • Overland Truck

Perth to Broome Adventure

This tour was fantastic and the tour operators were exceptional with their knowledge, friendliness and enthusiasm. Nothing was a chore for them and they brought positivity to the whole group. The places we visited were incredible.

Perth 7 Days All-Inclusive Touring Grand Packages Tour

Perth 7 Days All-Inclusive Touring Grand Packages

Well organized in terms of transport and being on time. The day to Wave rock was a lot of driving for only one major sight. Tours included interesting places and the guides were knowledgeable. Hotel was good except there was some confusion with our breakfast package that we had to sort out. Overall, a great tour and we enjoyed our time in Perth and area!

13 Day Kimberley Explorer Tour

13 Day Kimberley Explorer

Karijini National Park, Stations & Ningaloo Reef Explorer – 6 Day Tour Tour

Karijini National Park, Stations & Ningaloo Reef Explorer – 6 Day Tour

3-Day Margaret River Yoga Glamping Retreat from Perth Tour

  • Health, Spa & Wellness

3-Day Margaret River Yoga Glamping Retreat from Perth

What people love about western australia tours.

I loved every aspect of this tour. Geoff was an AMAZING tour guide!!
A great tour with an excellent driver/guide, Carlos, full of information, well organized and sensitive to our needs. Lots of wonderful places to see and experience from sunrise to sunset. Long bus rides at times and a full bus so little room to stretch out. But worth traveling the distances. Highly recommend the one way tour and fly out from Exmouth

Western Australia Tours starting in:

  • Broome (24)
  • Group (134)
  • Fully Guided (121)
  • Explorer (118)
  • Family (73)
  • Active (27)
  • In-depth Cultural (23)
  • Personalized (22)
  • Coach / Bus (15)
  • Ocean Cruise (14)
  • Partially Guided (14)
  • Overland Truck (12)
  • Hiking & Trekking (11)
  • Jeep & 4WD (11)
  • Private (11)
  • Self-Guided (10)
  • Self Drive (9)
  • 7 Day Tours (20)
  • 10 Day Tours (19)
  • 2 Week Tours (19)
  • 3 Week Tours (7)
  • 4 Week Tours (4)
  • Spring 2024 (29)
  • Summer 2024 (56)
  • Fall / Autumn 2024 (45)
  • Winter 2024 / 2025 (16)
  • Spring 2025 (18)
  • Summer 2025 (15)
  • Fall / Autumn 2025 (10)
  • Winter 2025 / 2026 (2)
  • May 2024 (41)
  • June 2024 (44)
  • July 2024 (52)
  • August 2024 (47)
  • September 2024 (42)
  • October 2024 (24)
  • November 2024 (17)
  • December 2024 (14)
  • January 2025 (8)
  • February 2025 (11)
  • March 2025 (10)
  • April 2025 (3)
  • May 2025 (12)
  • June 2025 (9)
  • July 2025 (13)
  • August 2025 (14)
  • September 2025 (10)
  • October 2025 (4)
  • November 2025 (2)
  • December 2025 (2)

Other Regions in Australia

  • East Australia (209)
  • Australian Outback (142)
  • Great Barrier Reef (104)
  • Australia Northern Territory (101)
  • Queensland (100)
  • Tasmania (95)
  • Australia East Coast (76)
  • South East Queensland (67)
  • Kakadu National Park (61)
  • Australia West Coast (59)
  • Red Centre (56)
  • Central Australia (55)
  • Uluru / Ayers Rock (44)
  • South Australia (42)
  • Victoria (36)
  • New South Wales (35)

Travel Styles

  • Budget (20)
  • Singles and Solo (46)
  • For Couples (25)
  • Seniors (45)

Best Washington Helicopter Tours and Rides

Helicopter tours in Washington offer a unique and exciting way to see iconic landmarks and attractions. You can enjoy stunning aerial views of Lake Washington and the picturesque scenery of Seattle.

There are great helicopter ride choices in WA whether you’re a local or a tourist looking for a thrilling adventure and a new perspective on Evergreen State.

Washington Popular Helicopter Attractions and Landmarks

Washington State has a number of cities that offer helicopter tours, with approximately 6 cities having heli tour companies. Among the most popular destinations are Seattle, Auburn, Tukwila, Chelan, and Arlington. Each city offers a unique and unforgettable experience that is sure to create lasting memories even for demanding tourists. 

Washington State boasts a variety of helicopter attractions, with numerous popular landmarks and attractions that can be viewed from above. There are approximately 22 major attractions throughout the state that can be explored via a helicopter tour. Popular options include Lake Washington, Seattle, Puget Sound, Cascade Mountains, and Downtown Seattle.

Lake Washington

Experience the thrill of a lifetime with a helicopter tour of Lake Washington. Take in the breathtaking views of the East Side, including the stunning bridges floating on concrete pontoons and the luxurious shoreline estates of tech giants Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos. This unforgettable adventure is the perfect way to see the beauty of the Pacific Northwest from a whole new perspective.

A helicopter tour of Seattle is an experience like no other. From the Space Needle to the University of Washington, you’ll see the city’s most iconic landmarks from a bird’s-eye view. Take in the stunning scenery of Elliot Bay Marina, Gasworks Park, and Lake Union, and marvel at the engineering feat of the Fremont Bridge and Ballard Locks. With so much to see, a helicopter tour is the perfect way to explore Seattle’s beauty and diversity..

Puget Sound

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Puget Sound from a unique perspective with a helicopter tour. Marvel at the bustling ports of Seattle and Tacoma, with their towering cranes and massive container ships. Take in the stunning views of the Tacoma Narrows bridge and airport, and explore the historic Bremerton Naval Shipyard, Ballard Locks, University of Washington, and Lake Union. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Pacific Northwest like never before!.

Cascade Mountains

is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and stunning architecture, but to truly appreciate its beauty, you need to take to the skies. A helicopter tour of Elliot Bay and the surrounding areas offers a unique perspective on the city, allowing you to see iconic landmarks like the Ballard Locks, Fremont Bridge, and Huskie Stadium from a whole new angle. As you soar over Lake Washington and past the opulent mansions of tech titans like Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos, you’ll feel a sense of awe and wonder that can only be experienced from above..

Downtown Seattle

Helicopter tours offer a unique and thrilling way to experience some of the most iconic landmarks and attractions in a city. From the breathtaking views of the Space Needle and South Lake Union to the bustling energy of Pikes Place Market and the waterfront, there’s no shortage of sights to see from above. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a helicopter tour is an unforgettable way to explore and appreciate the beauty of your city..

Washington Helicopter Ride Price

The prices for helicopter tours in Washington, WA vary depending on the tour duration and location. On average, a 15-minute helicopter tour in Seattle can cost around $200 per person.

Best Washington Helicopter Tour Deals

pexels-eray-altay-3834331-1-1

Houston Downtown – Helicopter Tour by Veracity Aviation

  •  2 years ago
  • by Green Pilot
  • Helicopter Tours
  • United States

Texas Houston Houston Downtown 45 min City tour Veracity Aviation

pexels-eray-altay-3834331-1

H-town Express – Houston Downtown by National Helicopter Solutions

Texas Houston Houston Downtown 30 min City tour National Helicopter Solutions

No Listings were found matching your selection.

FAQ on Helicopter Rides in Washington

According to our visitors the best helicopter tours in Washington are tours to Lake Washington, Seattle, Puget Sound, Cascade Mountains, and Downtown Seattle. You can find more tours and details here .

Helicopter tours in Washington start from 15 minutes. 30-min and 60-min tours are, usually, also available. For actual information please contact your helicopter ride provider. Find best helicopter companies in WA here.

According to our visitors the best helicopter tours in Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, and Bellevue are tours to Lake Washington, Seattle, Puget Sound, Cascade Mountains, and Downtown Seattle. You can find more tours and details here .

Helicopter tours in other states

  • Alabama Helicopter Tours. Best Helicopter Rides in Alabama, AL with prices and reviews
  • Alaska Helicopter Tours. Best Helicopter Rides in Alaska, AK with prices and reviews
  • Arizona Helicopter Tours. Best Helicopter Rides in Arizona, AZ with prices and reviews
  • Arkansas Helicopter Tours. Best Helicopter Rides in Arkansas, AR with prices and reviews
  • California Helicopter Tours. Best Helicopter Rides in California, CA with prices and reviews
  • Colorado Helicopter Tours. Best Helicopter Rides in Colorado, CO with prices and reviews
  • Connecticut Helicopter Tours. Best Helicopter Rides in Connecticut, CT with prices and reviews
  • Delaware Helicopter Tours. Best Helicopter Rides in Delaware, DE with prices and reviews
  • Florida Helicopter Tours. Best Helicopter Rides in Florida, FL with prices and reviews
  • Georgia Helicopter Tours. Best Helicopter Rides in Georgia, GA with prices and reviews
  • Entertainment
  • K-pop star Jay of ENHYPEN talks about WA roots, Fate Plus world tour

Amy Wong

Jay Park doesn’t remember much about his childhood in Washington.

As a member of one of the world’s biggest Korean pop groups, ENHYPEN, he’s had much more on his mind — international tours, a Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade performance, being a Prada global ambassador — than the nine years he spent growing up near Seattle.

Since debuting with ENHYPEN in 2020, the 22-year-old multihyphenate singer-rapper-musician-dancer has experienced a whirlwind of stardom, amassing fans across the globe. Despite the sold-out tours and chart-topping albums, Park has been holding onto one particular dream for years: to perform in his hometown. He is finally making that a reality, with ENHYPEN’s April 28 concert at the Tacoma Dome. 

Known by fans simply as Jay, the mononymous musician spent the early years of his life in Federal Way, where his parents settled after they attended college in the Pacific Northwest. When Park was 9, his family relocated to Korea for his dad’s work at a travel agency. Despite this, the entertainer still has fond memories of the street he grew up on, the rainy weather and Seattle’s culinary specialties.

“I really love the food in Seattle,” Park said in an interview over Zoom in early April. “Clam chowder is still one of my favorite foods. I try to eat it all over the world.”

Park has only been back to Seattle once, just a few years after the move. 

After adjusting to his new home in a new country, quickly learning Korean and attending school, Park developed a love for all things music, including playing guitar, singing and dancing, and gravitated toward a career in the ever-growing, multibillion-dollar K-pop music industry. 

“Being a K-pop idol was the best solution to do all the things I wanted in music,” he said. “I wanted to be a multi-entertainer.”

While searching for a way to break into the industry, Jay says that he got a bit of help from another Seattle-area born star: Jay Park , formerly of K-pop group 2PM. Not only did the two share the same name and hometown, but their fathers were also friends. The former 2PM performer’s decade of experience in the industry came in handy for 22-year-old Park.

Related From the archives

  • 2020: Edmonds-born, Seoul-based rapper on COVID-19 relief, his Seattle community and more
  • 2019: ‘Like a dream come true’: A UW dance crew invited a K-pop group to dance with them in Seattle. A.C.E agreed.

“I was able to talk to [Park’s] manager about what I should do to become a singer and what it would be like when I debuted,” the ENHYPEN idol said. 

Park eventually found his start training under label Big Hit Entertainment, now HYBE, developing his singing and dancing skills for almost three years before landing a spot on Korean music competition show “I-LAND” in 2020. 

He and 22 other trainees participated in the show, spending almost four months refining their star power and talents in hopes of winning the grand prize: being placed in a new boy band. The new group’s album would be produced by Big Hit Music founder Bang Si-Hyuk, best known as the producer who helped create BTS, a legendary K-pop group.

While Park was confident he would debut as a K-pop idol, he knew that it would likely be his “last chance to achieve this dream.” If he didn’t make it through in “I-LAND,” he would continue to learn about and make music, and likely return back to the U.S. to attend university.

“I didn’t think about it that far,” Park said. “But I probably would’ve wanted to go home to Seattle.”

But over the course of the show, Park proved his talents and his dream did come true, landing him in second place on “I-LAND” and selected for brand-new music group ENHYPEN.

Despite debuting in November 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the seven-member boy band quickly shot to fame. The key to ENHYPEN’s success: its musical versatility across genres and lyrical themes, the growing fan base who followed the group from “I-LAND” and backing from one of Korea’s most successful music labels. 

Today, ENHYPEN has more than 9 million monthly listeners on Spotify, five Billboard 200-charting albums and a world tour under its belt. The group’s Fate Plus Tour includes its first Seattle-area performance, which marks Park’s first Washington visit in almost a decade. The tour date also marks another special homecoming: one for Park’s mom, who attended college in Tacoma and will join him at the concert. 

“I’m really excited to look around my hometown, and with my fellow [ENHYPEN] members, too,” Park says.

ENHYPEN’s fans, known as ENGENEs, are just as excited for the group’s upcoming visit to the Seattle area. Several attending the Tacoma Dome show said they are planning projects to make Park feel especially appreciated. 

Sam Romanik, a 25-year-old fan from Burien, is printing 4,000 banners emblazoned with “Welcome home Jay” and ENHYPEN song lyrics to pass out at the concert. When Park looks out into the crowd, Romanik hopes he’ll see the banners and “feel comfortable and welcome home.”

Most Read Entertainment Stories

  • 4 new cozy mysteries and eerie thrillers to get lost in
  • The most anticipated movies of summer 2024 VIEW
  • Kidnapping of California woman that police called a hoax gets new attention with Netflix documentary
  • Rising star conductor Valentina Peleggi makes U.S. opera debut in Seattle

For many Seattle-based fans, knowing they grew up in the same place as Park makes them feel even more connected to the group, and wanting to show up for their hometown hero. 

“Seattle will always welcome him home, and [we] want him to know that he has a place here,” said Rachel Ramirez, an ENHYPEN fan from Kent. “We want to be that supportive and safe place for them.”

Even though it’s been years since Park has been back to his hometown, he still carries pieces of Seattle with him everywhere, particularly his strong affinity for the Mariners. 

For as long as Park can remember, his family were “really crazy fans” of the Seattle baseball team, and that love has “kind of become part of [his] identity.” Aside from the Mariners Moose plushie in his bedroom, Park shows his Mariners pride onstage with his in-ear monitors, which are emblazoned with the team’s blue-and-green compass logo. 

But his strongest tie to the Seattle MLB team is actually his name: Park’s dad says part of the inspiration for it was beloved Mariners right fielder Jay Buhner. His dad’s constant references to Buhner “gave me the thought that he was almost like my second father,” laughs Jay.

It’s only fitting that following their almost sold-out Tacoma Dome concert, ENHYPEN will throw out the first pitch at the April 29 Mariners-Atlanta Braves game. Park admitted he is “a bit nervous,” but excited to be attending the game with his bandmates. He and fellow ENHYPEN members Ni-ki and Heeseung are practicing their pitch.

“I went there a lot as a child, but I don’t remember a lot of specific Mariners memories,” says Park. “It’s really exciting for this to be my first time there as an ENHYPEN member so I can create a new ‘first’ memory.” 

Related What to eat & drink before the show

  • 3 great spots for lunch in Tacoma’s Lincoln International District
  • Try 2 great Korean seafood pancakes in Federal Way
  • In Tacoma, hit a Tiki bar and a dive with a menu from a top Seattle chef
  • Bob’s Java Jive in Tacoma is still in awesome (coffeepot) shape

7:30 p.m. April 28; Tacoma Dome, 2727 E. D St., Tacoma; accessibility: tacomadome.org/dome-info/accessibility ; tickets start at $64; 253-272-3663, tacomadome.org

The opinions expressed in reader comments are those of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of The Seattle Times.

Netanyahu vows to invade Rafah regardless of cease-fire deal

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s position that its forces will launch an anticipated military operation in Rafah regardless of whether a cease-fire and hostage deal is reached with Hamas. He made the remark amid fresh optimism that new negotiations could lead to a halt in fighting. Secretary of State Antony Blinken continued his tour of the Middle East, arriving in Israel Tuesday to work toward getting more humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

  • U.S. lawmakers warn of backlash if ICC issues Israeli arrest warrants
  • Netanyahu vows to invade Rafah ‘with or without’ a cease-fire deal
  • Blinken continues Middle East tour with stops in Jordan and Israel

Here's what to know:

Here's what to know, live coverage contributors 16.

Rachel Pannett avatar

4:47 p.m. EDT 4:47 p.m. EDT

4:20 p.m. EDT 4:20 p.m. EDT

3:00 p.m. EDT 3:00 p.m. EDT

2:59 p.m. EDT 2:59 p.m. EDT

1:20 p.m. EDT 1:20 p.m. EDT

  • Six months of the Israel-Gaza war: A timeline of key moments April 7, 2024 Six months of the Israel-Gaza war: A timeline of key moments April 7, 2024
  • Homes burned, animals killed: Palestinians describe Israeli settler rampage April 16, 2024 Homes burned, animals killed: Palestinians describe Israeli settler rampage April 16, 2024
  • Blinken calls proposed Israeli cease-fire deal ‘extraordinarily generous’ April 29, 2024 Blinken calls proposed Israeli cease-fire deal ‘extraordinarily generous’ April 29, 2024

10:45 a.m. EDT 10:45 a.m. EDT

10:07 a.m. EDT Bullet Key update 10:07 a.m. EDT

9:15 a.m. EDT Bullet Key update 9:15 a.m. EDT

6:53 a.m. EDT 6:53 a.m. EDT

5:07 a.m. EDT 5:07 a.m. EDT

1:51 a.m. EDT Bullet Key update 1:51 a.m. EDT

Israel-Gaza war

The Israel-Gaza war has gone on for six months, and tensions have spilled into the surrounding region .

The war: On Oct. 7, Hamas militants launched an unprecedented cross-border attack on Israel that included the taking of civilian hostages at a music festival . (See photos and videos of how the deadly assault unfolded ). Israel declared war on Hamas in response, launching a ground invasion that fueled the biggest displacement in the region since Israel’s creation in 1948 .

Gaza crisis: In the Gaza Strip, Israel has waged one of this century’s most destructive wars , killing tens of thousands and plunging at least half of the population into “ famine-like conditions. ” For months, Israel has resisted pressure from Western allies to allow more humanitarian aid into the enclave .

U.S. involvement: Despite tensions between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and some U.S. politicians , including President Biden, the United States supports Israel with weapons , funds aid packages , and has vetoed or abstained from the United Nations’ cease-fire resolutions.

History: The roots of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and mistrust are deep and complex, predating the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948 . Read more on the history of the Gaza Strip .

tour in wa

IMAGES

  1. The Most Impressive Architecture in Seattle

    tour in wa

  2. Margaret River and Esperance Tour from Perth

    tour in wa

  3. Driving Tour of Seattle’s Waterfront

    tour in wa

  4. The Ultimate Luxury Kimberley Tour

    tour in wa

  5. WA Bucket list: 25 Things to see & do in Western Australia

    tour in wa

  6. Pinnacles Sunset Stargazing Tour

    tour in wa

VIDEO

  1. Jeep Wisata Lava Tour . WA 083871157838

  2. 221 E. Rockwood Blvd., Spokane, WA, 99202

  3. 1201 S Greenacres Rd, Greenacres, WA, 99016

  4. Wellington High School brings "FFA For A Day" to Junior High! ✨

  5. Nka 2639800012800, Reardan, WA, 99029

  6. 3803 E 34th Ave, Spokane, WA, 99223

COMMENTS

  1. THE 10 BEST Washington Tours & Excursions

    per adult. 6. Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass Combination Ticket. 468. Skyscrapers & Towers. 3 hours. Visit two Seattle attractions in one day with an admission ticket that provides entrance to the Space Needle, and Chihuly…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 91% of travelers.

  2. THE TOP 10 Washington Tours & Excursions (UPDATED 2024)

    Viator Exclusive Day-Tour From Seattle to Mt. Rainier. 2,137. Experience the natural beauty of majestic Mt Rainier on this guided, small-group tour from Seattle. Enjoy a scenic, narrated journey past lakes, waterfalls and historic towns to Mt Rainier, the highest mountain in the state of Washington and one of the tallest in the lower 48 states.

  3. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Washington

    2. Pike Place Market. 21,938. Farmers Markets. The Pike Place Market has been a defining Seattle icon for more than a century. Considered by many "the soul of Seattle," the Market spans nine historic acres in the center of downtown where everyday locals and tourists alike shop, visit, eat and discover.

  4. THE 10 BEST Seattle Tours & Excursions for 2024 (with Prices)

    Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass Combination Ticket. 468. Skyscrapers & Towers. 3 hours. Visit two Seattle attractions in one day with an admission ticket that provides entrance to the Space Needle, and Chihuly…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 91% of travelers. from. $66.

  5. The BEST Washington (State) Tours and Things to Do in 2024

    Our most recommended things to do in Washington (State) 1. Seattle: Space Needle & Chihuly Garden and Glass Ticket. Experience the stunning views of Seattle from the Space Needle with a timed entry ticket. Take a stroll through the imaginative artwork of Dale Chihuly with admission to Chihuly Garden and Glass.

  6. Visit Washington State

    Things to Do With Kids in Washington State. From digging for fossils to watching wildlife, Washington offers fun for the whole family. The official travel and tourism website for the State of Washington. Find visitor guides, travel inspiration, and planning tools for your next vacation.

  7. THE TOP 10 Washington Day Trips (w/Prices)

    Viator Exclusive Day-Tour From Seattle to Mt. Rainier. 2,137. Experience the natural beauty of majestic Mt Rainier on this guided, small-group tour from Seattle. Enjoy a scenic, narrated journey past lakes, waterfalls and historic towns to Mt Rainier, the highest mountain in the state of Washington and one of the tallest in the lower 48 states.

  8. The 7 Best Sightseeing Tours in Washington State!

    No matter what you love to do, Washington State has it all—city tours, waterfront excursions, food and wine experiences, and more. Whether you want to expand your knowledge of wines, breweries, and distilleries, taste local cuisine, or learn about the state's history with your children, there's definitely something for everyone in the Evergreen State.

  9. The 8 Best Guided Tours in Washington State!

    Lake Quinault Rainforest Tour in Quinault is a great tour for the whole family. Mt. Rainier Day Trip from Seattle, Seattle, WA Experience Washington's tallest mountain in a wonderful small-group guided tour, get picked up from Seattle and enjoy the scenic narrated journey past small towns, mountain lakes and beautiful waterfalls.

  10. Seattle Tours & Activities

    Tours Northwest is a local, family-owned company that has been operating in Seattle for the past 30+ years. We offer tours in Seattle, Washington such as our Premier 3-Hour Seattle City Tour year-round. Beginning in May, we showcase our all-day scenic tour to Mt. Rainier!Our recent addition of the 2-Day Olympic National Park Tour provides an exclusive tour from Seattle of the lush Hoh ...

  11. 9 Best Tours In Seattle, Washington

    The Emerald City: Top 15 Things To Do In Seattle In A Weekend. 1. Friday Harbor Day Trip and Whale Watching from Seattle (From 107 USD) Take in the beautiful seascape of Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands - and hopefully enjoy the odd close encounter or two with some of the area's whales on this enchanting day tour.

  12. The Top 21 Excursions and Tours in Seattle

    8. Elliott Bay Sea Kayak Tour. Run by the team at Alki Kayak Tours, this two-hour tour of Elliott Bay and the Duwamish River is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Seattle area. While you're paddling, you'll be blessed with sweeping views of the Seattle skyline and the Olympic Mountains.

  13. The Ultimate Twilight Tour in Forks, WA (Make The Books Come Alive!)

    The self-proclaimed Swan Residence from the book series is located at 775 K St, Forks, WA 98331. The owners erected a cute sign out in front to honor people's Twilight tour in Forks, and you can spot an Edward cutout upstairs in the window! Remember though, this is someone's real house, so be respectful and just take pictures from the ...

  14. Trips In Washington State And The Pacific Northwest

    Leavenworth in Winter and Beyond. One of the classic, scenic train rides in Western Washington is the route to the Bavarian-inspired mountain town of Leavenworth. Passing into the rugged Cascade Mountains, skirting Highway 2 and the Skykomish River, riders will be in awe at the natural beauty of the region. Towering peaks and dense forests are ...

  15. Sightseeing Tours

    Sailing Seattle puts you on a high-performance racing yacht for a relaxing, wind-in-your-hair journey. Waterways Cruises and Events focuses on dining cruises aboard its 105-foot-long yacht, like the Sunday Supper Cruise that takes a spin around Lake Union and Lake Washington while guests enjoy a buffet stocked with sockeye salmon and apple crisp.

  16. Seattle City Tour Bus

    MoPop Pickup: 325 5th Ave N Seattle, WA (Pickup is 5 minutes before tour start time) Plan to arrive to your meeting location 5 minutes ahead of the scheduled pickup time. You'll want to be on the lookout for a white mini coach that says Tours Northwest. Give our office a call if you haven't been picked up 5 minutes past your scheduled ...

  17. THE 10 BEST Washington Walking Tours

    Apr 27, 2024 - Whether you are a local or a tourist, get to know the area even better while on foot with the best Washington walking tours on Tripadvisor. Read the reviews of your fellow travelers and book top-rated walking tours in Washington for 2024.

  18. 10 Best Western Australia Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    Western Australia Tours & Trips. Find the right tour package for you through Western Australia. We've got 150 trips going to Western Australia, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 27 days. The most popular month to go is July, which has the most tour departures.

  19. Best Washington Helicopter Tours and Rides

    Washington Helicopter Ride Price. The prices for helicopter tours in Washington, WA vary depending on the tour duration and location. On average, a 15-minute helicopter tour in Seattle can cost around $200 per person.

  20. THE BEST 10 Tours in OLYMPIA, WA

    Best Tours in Olympia, WA - Washington State Capitol Events & Tours, Gig Harbor Gondola, Black Dawg Farm and Sanctuary, Olympia Bike Tours, Wolf Haven International, Cheryl's Northwest Tours, Five Stars of Scandinavia, Caitlin's kitchen, Capital Aeroporter Airport Shuttle, Savor the Wild Tours

  21. K-pop star Jay of ENHYPEN talks about WA roots, Fate Plus world tour

    Jay Park doesn't remember much about his childhood in Washington. As a member of one of the world's biggest Korean pop groups, ENHYPEN, he's had much more on his mind — international tours ...

  22. THE BEST 10 Tours in KENNEWICK, WA

    Best Tours in Kennewick, WA - TC Black, Wine Country 2 Go, The REACH, Tri Cities Limo, Adventure Tours, Red Mountain Photo Bus, Celebrity Limousine, Wine Country Luxury Transportation, Seattle Ballooning - Walla Walla, RRoyal Rides

  23. THE 10 BEST Washington Wine Tasting Tours

    12. Full-Day Small-Group Bainbridge Island Wine and History Tour. Experience Pacific Northwest island life, history, and wine on this all-inclusive small group day tour of beautiful Bainbridge…. 13. Sip and savor award winning Yakima Valley wines. Discover the flavors and personalities of Central Washington wines.

  24. Chocolate Factory Tours

    Seattle Chocolate Factory. 1180 Andover Park W. Seattle, WA 98188. [email protected] | (425) 264-2705

  25. Ticketmaster

    Ticketmaster

  26. Gabriela Bryan: 'Magical' moment as surfer shares wave with ...

    Gabriela Bryan won her first world championship tour event at the Western Australia Margaret River Pro on Sunday and in a "magical" moment in the final, the Hawaiian surfer shared a wave with ...

  27. Latest Israel-Hamas war news and Gaza conflict updates

    Secretary of State Antony Blinken continued his tour of the Middle East on Tuesday, heading to Jordan and Israel with a focus on getting more humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

  28. PGA Tour players learn worth of loyalty in equity program

    Players who stayed loyal to the PGA Tour amid lucrative recruitment by Saudi-funded LIV Golf are starting to find out how much that loyalty could be worth.. The PGA Tour on Wednesday began ...