washington tourist destinations

Top 12 Washington State Attractions

Pierre Leclerc Photography/Getty Images

The state of Washington is blessed with landscapes, whether created by nature or by humans, that are not only scenic but perfect for outdoor recreation—but that's not all the Evergreen State has to offer. Whether you like the view from the top of Seattle's Space Needle or shopping at the bustling Pike Place Market, Washington State has something for everyone. Here is a list of the 12 best attractions to enjoy in Washington.

Explore Olympic National Park

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Olympic National Park , which is a unique and diverse wilderness preserve, is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve. During a visit to the park, you can experience a number of different ecosystems, including alpine mountain, temperate rain forests, and rugged ocean beaches. The park's Hurricane Ridge can be visited on a long day trip from Seattle. If you wish to explore several sections of the park, plan to spend at least three days on a multiday loop around the Olympic Peninsula.

Drive Along Mount Baker Highway

TripSavvy / Chris VR

Mount Baker Highway begins in Bellingham on State Route 542, passes through a charming rural area, then enters Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Along the way, you'll enjoy 60 miles of beauty and recreation. Be sure to stop at the U.S. Forest Service ranger station in Glacier for a map, recreation pointers, and the latest road and trail condition. There will be many places to stop and enjoy the scenery, hike, or picnic, including Horseshoe Bend, Nooksack Falls, Heather Meadows, and Artist Point. If you plan to head all the way up to Artist Point (which, along with Heather Meadows is the reason Mount Baker Highway ranks so high on this list), August or September is the time to go.

Hike (or Drive) in Mount Rainier National Park

The stunning beauty and dominant presence of Mount Rainier demands that all who see it on their horizon will want to visit in person. And the closer in you get, the more gorgeous the view. Mount Rainier National Park is accessible to all who wish to experience it; even if you're not up for a hike, much can be experienced on a driving tour with frequent stops at scenic viewpoints. Those who wish to explore the mountain landscape up close will find hikes that range from easy to difficult, from a few minutes to several days.

Drive the Coulee Corridor

The Coulee Corridor National Scenic Byway runs from Omak in the north, through Moses Lake, to Othello. Along the way, you'll take in stunning scenery, both natural and human-made. Grand Coulee Dam is a major highlight, where you can spend a good chunk of your day. Dry Falls Visitor Center, Banks Lake, Steamboat Rock State Park, Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park, Lake Lenore Caves State Park, Potholes State Park, and the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge are all worthwhile stops along Coulee Corridor.

Take in Picture-Perfect Landscapes on the North Cascades Scenic Highway

Noah Krayenhagen / TripSavvy

The North Cascades Scenic Highway follows State Route 20 from Sedro-Woolley to the Methow Valley, passing through portions of both Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and North Cascades National Park. Along the way, you'll see sharp snowcapped peaks, historic dams and powerhouses, and blue-green lakes. There are numerous places to get out and stretch your legs at a scenic viewpoint or hiking trail. Must-do stops include the Diablo Lake Boat Tour , the North Cascades National Park Visitor Center, and the charming Western-themed town of Winthrop.

See an Active Volcano

Mount St. Helens and the lands preserved in Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument are fascinating places to visit for a number of reasons. First, getting up close to an active volcano provides a particular thrill. As you drive through the monument, you'll see evidence of the vast destruction from the 1980 eruption , but you'll also see signs of fantastic recovery in plant and animal life. Each of the visitors' centers does an excellent job of filling you in on different aspects of Mount St. Helens, before, during, and after the events of 1980, with photographs, videos, models, and interpretive exhibits.

Shop at Pike Place Market

Seattle's Pike Place Market is packed full of more stalls, shops, and eateries than you can explore in just one visit. Or even a few. But that's one of the things that makes Pike Place Market a favorite with both visitors and residents. You know you'll see a gorgeous array of seafood, produce, and flowers every time, and you know you'll also find nifty craft items, hear entertaining street musicians, and see numerous interesting characters. Along with these old favorites, you'll discover something new and unique to the Northwest.

Immerse Yourself in "Modern" Seattle

A legacy of the 1962 Century 21 Exposition, Seattle Center combines open park spaces with a number of attractions and performance venues. Many of Seattle's major annual festivals are held at Seattle Center, including the Northwest Folklife Festival, Bumbershoot , and Winterfest. The Space Needle , Museum of Pop Culture , the Pacific Science Center , KeyArena, McCaw Hall, and Intiman Theatre are just some of the places you can visit during a day at Seattle Center.

Cross the Puget Sound by Ferry

John & Lisa Merrill/Getty Images

Part of Washington's state highway system, the Washington State Ferries convey people and their vehicles to and from points around the Puget Sound . Not only are these ferries one way—and often the only way—to get to the many island communities scattered around the Sound, they are also a fun and relaxing way to experience the beauty of the region. Major ferry docks are located at downtown Seattle, Edmonds, Mukilteo, Clinton, Kingston, Bainbridge Island , and Anacortes.

Relax at Spokane's Riverfront Park

World's fairs and expositions have left Washington with beautiful community spaces, and unique structures that have gone on to become treasured landmarks and Riverfront Park is a stunning example. Expo '74 transformed Spokane's downtown railroad yards into lovely green spaces dotted with interesting buildings. Some of those structures remain, along with fun attractions such as the Spokane Falls SkyRide, the historic Looff Carrousel, an amusement park , and seasonal ice skating rink.

Admire Incredible Glass Art

Marc-Anthony Macon/Flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0

No artist is more synonymous with Seattle than Dale Chihuly. The artist's colorful, spiraling works of glass can be seen around the world, but Seattle's Chihuly Garden and Glass is an astounding showcase of the Tacoma-born Chihuly's works. The garden's centerpiece is the 40-foot tall Glasshouse, home to a mesmerizing 100-foot long sculpture.

Marvel at the Science Behind Aviation at the Museum of Flight

Cord Rodefeld/Flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0 

Seattle's Museum of Flight is home to one of the most extensive air and space collections in the United States and attracts more than 500,000 visitors each year. In addition to ever-changing exhibitions, the museum's permanent collection includes a 1929 Boeing 80A-1, a Lockheed M-21, and a Boeing VC-137B. One of the museum's unique exhibits is a full-scale, interactive air traffic control tower, which offers visitors a glimpse in the work of an air traffic controller.

Plan Your Trip to Washington State

Mount Baker Highway Day Trip From Bellingham

Amazing National Parks Near Seattle

7 Best Things to Do Between Seattle and Vancouver

The 28 Best Day Trips From Seattle

Bellingham and Whatcom County Travel Guide

Great Washington State Road Trips

The 10 Best Places to Go Camping in Washington State

Plan Your North Cascades Highway Road Trip

North Cascades National Park: The Complete Guide

Mountain Getaways in Washington State

The Top 5 Golf Destinations in Washington State

Best Places to See Fall Color in the Pacific Northwest

Washington's Cascade Loop Scenic Driving Tour

The Best Time to Visit Seattle

The Ultimate Northern US Road Trip

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Washington (WA) » 25 Best Things to Do in Washington State

25 Best Things to Do in Washington State

The State of Washington is a nature lovers dream. The natural scenery in the state is some of the most breath taking and awe-inspiring in the entire United States. The terrain is diverse and includes the Hoh Rain Forest, volcanoes (both dormant and recently destructive) forests, and islands.

The cities in Washington are as impressive as the nature and include Seattle , the state’s largest city, and Olympia, the state’s capital. There are a great number of national parks in Washington some well known and others less so but all are equally impressive and worth a trip. Our list of the top 25 things to do in Washington , as always, contains a mix of the best things to do in the cities and natural spots in the state:

1. Olympic National Park

The Olympic National Park in Port Angeles is a great place to enjoy the nature on offer in the state of Washington. Within the park there are mineral springs and cool clear water for natural swimming as well as accommodation in comfortable lodges.

The park is the perfect place to escape from the busy city and enjoy the serenity of the great outdoors.

2. Mount Rainer National Park

Another National Park and another must visit spot for nature lovers; Mount Rainer has attracted tourists from far and wide since opening its first visitor center in 1880.

As well as the beautiful scenery, outdoor enthusiasts also have plenty of activities to keep them entertained here including fishing, climbing, hiking and cross country skiing in the winter.

3. The Space Needle

This iconic landmark is a must visit attraction when visiting the state of Washington.

The views from the 520-foot high observation deck are unbeatable and include natural landscapes such as Mount Rainer as well as the breath-taking cityscape.

Whilst taking in the panoramic views, it is easy to see why Washington is one of the most visited states in the United States.

Included in : Seattle CityPASS

4. Seattle Center

The Seattle Center has a lot to offer visitors with a mix of parks and attractions. It was originally built for the Century 21 Exposition in 1962 but it still plays host to many notable performances and events in the city throughout the year. There are a great number of things to see in this area including the SciFi Museum, The Pacific Science Center and the Intiman Theatre to name only a few.

5. Pike Place Market

The Pike Place Market in Seattle is a great place for gourmets to experience the freshest produce and best ingredients from the state of Washington.

The market also provides the opportunity to sample Seattle delicacies that cannot be found elsewhere. There are also a number of quality restaurants to be found at Pike Place, which offer delicious Washington cuisine.

Recommended tour : Pike Place Market Chef-Guided Food Tour

6. Pioneer Square

Pioneer Square is a Historic District in Seattle, which is widely regarded as the city’s first neighborhood.

Pioneer Square is recognized as the home of “true’ Seattle, lined with exquisite boutiques and many popular restaurants the picturesque streets give way to a perfect pre-dinner stroll. There are lots of things here to keep you busy on a day out or a relaxing evening with your loved ones.

Suggested tour: Seattle City Highlights Tour

7. Snoqualmie Falls

Whether you’re a camera buff or simply looking for some tranquility; the astonishing scenery around the Snoqualmie Falls will satisfy yours needs. Why not gather the family together and pack a picnic for a splendid day out in the two-acre park surrounding the beautiful falls.

Combo tour : Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting

8. Lake Chelan

Regarded by locals as George Washington’s playground, Lake Chelan has a lot to offer from swimming in the blue waters to wine tasting. You are sure to find something for all the family here including activities such as kayaking, jet skiing and many other water sports available. When the action-packed day ends be sure to visit one of the many fantastic restaurants on offer where you will become immersed in the bustling nightlife of the area.

9. Seattle Art Museum

For a cultural stop why not spend an afternoon getting to know the works on display at Seattle Art Museum. The Museum is great for art enthusiasts looking for something a little different. Admire a wide range of works including Abstract Pulse by Robert Davidson and explore the stunning display of Kingdoms of Sun and Moon and the Light in the Darkness.

10. North Cascades Scenic Highway

You can’t visit Washington without spending some time taking in one of the most superb landscapes in the United States. All the usual outdoor activities are on offer such as cycling, camping and hiking but simply driving along the North Cascades Scenic Highway is a fantastic way to soak up the sights. A sunset visit with a picnic would be an excellent way to spend an evening.

11. Woodland Park Zoo

Woodland Park Zoo is another popular family attraction in Washington. It is situated in Seattle and is home to around 1,100 animals covering an impressive 300 species.

There are plenty of themed enclosures and educational exhibits to explore whilst there and children and adults alike will learn plenty during their visit. The Zoo is always a highlight of a trip to Washington.

12. Mount Baker Highway

The Mount Baker Highway covers around 60 miles of beautiful natural scenery and recreational opportunities. The highway begins in Bellingham and at the US Forest Ranger Station, you will find a wealth of information regarding the route and will be able to obtain a map. There are a number of spots along the way that provide great opportunities for hiking, cycling or simply taking in the views including Nooksack Falls and Artist Point. Artist Point is one of the most notable stops on the list and is best to visit in August and September.

13. Coulee Corridor

This Scenic Byway spans from Omak to Othello and is another great way to take in Washington’s stunning landscape. There are also plenty of man-made highlights including the impressive Grand Coulee Dam, which is a must visit landmark. For wildlife lovers, the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge is worth a visit as are the several state parks along the way including Sun Lakes and Steamboat Rock.

14. Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument

Driving through Mount St Helens National Monument provides a unique and breath-taking perspective of the damage caused at the time of the 1980 eruption and also a glimpse into the amazing healing abilities of nature. The visitor’s centres at the Monument are top quality and do an excellent job of explaining the natural phenomena that occurred during, before and after the eruption via various exhibits and videos.

Available tour : St. Helens National Monument Small Group Tour

15. Washington State Ferries

The Washington State Ferries are not just a crucial mode of transport for connecting the many island communities of the Puget Sound but they are also a tranquil way to take in the unique beauty of the area. There are major docks in the downtown Seattle area as well as Mukilteo, Clinton and Bainbridge Island.

16. Riverfront Park

Riverfront Park in Spokane is a great example of the way that various world fairs and expos have shaped Washington throughout the past. The Expo 74 was responsible for the transformation of industrial train yards to green vistas in Spokane and a visit to the area now allows guests to witness some of the notable buildings from the exposition including the Looff Carousel and the Skyride. In winter there is also and ice rink in the area.

17. Boeing Future of Flight

You don’t have to be an expert on planes for this building to be worthy of your Washington itinerary. The Boeing factory in Everett is the largest building in the world and is open to the public for daily “Future of Flight” tours. The tours are informative and definitely worth a visit even for those who aren’t aviation buffs. If, however, you are potty about planes, the Museum of Flight in Seattle is also worth a visit.

18. San Juan

San Juan Island National Historic Park is probably the pick of the Puget Sound bunch when it comes to tourism. The islands were disputed in the so-called “Pig War” dispute between the troops of the United States and Britain. The island is also a great location for whale spotting due to the orcas that frequent the Puget Sound area and daily whale watching tours are available although you may get lucky and see the impressive mammal from shore.

19. Tacoma Museums

Tacoma is one of the largest cities in Washington and can be found between Seattle and Olympia. During the past, the city has had an industrial atmosphere but it is now also a great spot for tourists due to the number of great museums here. The Museum of Glass is full of stunning examples of glass-work as well as the memorable Bridge of Glass. The LeMay Car Museum and Washington State History museum are also well worth a look.

20. Downtown Seattle

Downtown Seattle is, surprisingly, a great place to escape from the business of the city. The waterfront, with its parks and piers, provides a great place to relax. There are also a number of interesting buildings to be seen in the area and watching a performance at Benaroya Hall is also highly recommended. Tours on the waterfront are available and head, along sea level, from the Sculpture Park to the southern ferry terminal.

21. Port Angeles

The town of Port Angeles can be found by the Strait of Juan de Fuca on the Olympic Peninsula’s northern shores. As well as the Olympic National Park (mentioned earlier on this list), the area is a known widely for being a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, cycling, golf, kayaking and bird watching. The Visitors Centre has a wealth of information on the best hiking routes and where to see different wildlife.

22. Port Angeles Fine Arts Centre

Yet another reason to visit Port Angeles while in the state of Washington, is the Port Angeles Fine Arts Centre.  The semi-circle gallery features an ever changing mix of Northwest art exhibits. The grounds of the center are vast and worth exploring as they house around 100 different sculptures along various paths.

23. Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest

Running parallel with the slopes of the Cascade Mountains, the Snoqualmie National Forest is another stunning place to indulge in outdoor pursuits and observes wildlife. There are a great number of hiking routes in the area as well as cosy cabins to stay in and skiing in the winter months. The nearby town of Glacier is home to the base camp for Mount Baker and offers restaurants and other amenities for travelers.

24. Leavenworth

This self-titled Bavarian Village is a great place to sample German culture and heritage in the United States. The locals will often don their lederhosen and dirndls and play a tune on their alphorn and the buildings of the town look the part too. They are built in German architectural style and decorated accordingly with impressive German style Gothic signs. The town plays hosts to a number of entertaining festivals and events during the year and is an immersive Bavarian experience in the United States.

25. Bellingham

Aside from being an embarkation point for Mount Baker, the city of Bellingham has a lot to offer visitors. The Fairhaven Historic District provides an informative introduction to the area with its art galleries and eateries. The Outdoor Sculpture Collection in the Western Washington University is also well worth a stop and has an excellent collection across the campus. For lovers of the great outdoors there is Whatcom Falls Park with its many walking trails and four falls.

25 Best Things to Do in Washington State:

• Olympic National Park
• Mount Rainer National Park
• The Space Needle
• Seattle Center
• Pike Place Market
• Pioneer Square
• Snoqualmie Falls
• Lake Chelan
• Seattle Art Museum
• North Cascades Scenic Highway
• Woodland Park Zoo
• Mount Baker Highway
• Coulee Corridor
• Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument
• Washington State Ferries
• Riverfront Park
• Boeing Future of Flight
• Tacoma Museums
• Downtown Seattle
• Port Angeles
• Port Angeles Fine Arts Centre
• Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest
• Leavenworth

Washington state travel guide: Breathtaking national parks, the bustling city of Seattle and beyond

W ashington state is known for its wide range of stunning natural landscapes, from rugged coastlines to snow-capped mountain peaks to vibrant rainforests.

Cities like Seattle and Spokane offer their own array of cultural and culinary attractions.

Whether you are interested in outdoor adventure or simply taking in the scenery, the Evergreen State has something for every type of traveler.

AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL: 50 MUST-SEE LANDMARKS THAT TELL OUR NATIONAL STORY 

Here's a deep dive.

Olympic National Park spans 70 miles of coastline and almost 1 million acres. This World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve offers anything you could want from a national park , like hiking, boating and the opportunity to see wild animals in their natural habitat in the temperate Hoh Rain Forest.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"It's one of those places that really embodies what you would consider the Evergreen State," Jennifer Coleman, publisher of the Scenic Washington road trip guidebook and the road map for Washington state , told Fox News Digital during a phone interview. "The beaches along the Pacific there are pretty wild. So, I always tell people, bring a raincoat and plan for wind. You know, it's not like going to the beach even in Oregon, where you can really lay out in the sun."

"I mean, OK, we do get sunny days, but it's just not the same as a little further south," Coleman added.

Visitors can observe ecosystems in miniature in the tide pools of Olympic National Park's beaches. And while there might not be many sunbathers, the park is a well-known destination for stargazers. About 95% of the park is designated as wilderness and is devoid of human-caused light, making for a spectacular view of the night sky.

This park is named for the many waterfalls along its hundreds of miles of trails. The clear, blue mountain waters of Lake Diablo and the park's other lakes and rivers offer opportunities for boat tours and fishing and make North Cascades Coleman's favorite of the state's three national parks.

She pointed out that although the park is remote, its beauty is accessible to those not up for a hike, since a driving trip along the North Cascades Scenic Highway still affords gorgeous views of mountain peaks, verdant trees and rushing waterfalls.

And for those who want a hands-on experience, North Cascades National Park is known for its climbing opportunities.

SPRINGTIME TRAVEL: 5 FLOWER GARDENS ACROSS 5 TIME ZONES SHOWCASING AMERICAN BEAUTY  

Naturalists can keep their eyes peeled for the gray wolves, wolverines and more than 200 species of birds that call one of Earth's most diverse ecosystems home.

"It's sort of the iconic Washington thing, to go to Mount Rainier National Park," Coleman said. The mountain lies along several officially designated scenic byways for the road trippers out there, and it is the highest peak in the Evergreen State, rising 14,410 above sea level.

Since the park is so highly attended, a timed entry system will be implemented during the busiest months, from May to September, beginning in 2024. Reservations open 90 days in advance.

NATIONAL PARK WEEK: 15 SURPRISING FACTS ABOUT AMERICA'S PARKS YOU MAY NOT KNOW

This is the most popular state park for mountain climbing and skiing, with more than 20 climbing routes and ski descents. With its wilderness backpacking campsites and more than 260 miles of maintained trails, including some that are paved, hikers of all stripes can find the perfect trek. 

Winter sports are popular in Mount Rainier National Park, but it is also known for its hundreds of species of wildflowers that bloom spectacularly over the summer.

Washington's largest city is also one of its main travel destinations and serves as the origin point for many of the road trips in Scenic Washington's guides. The city itself offers plenty to do.

The Emerald City is known for its food and drink scene: Japanese cuisine, craft beer, wine and especially coffee and seafood.

Starbucks is based in Seattle , so naturally, the Starbucks Reserve Roastery is located there, too. Think Willy Wonka's chocolate factory but for coffee, complete with a coffee bean library. Numerous smaller cafés are spread across the city as well for those who want a more unique espresso experience. 

Tea houses and bakeries are in no short supply, either, in case you need to cool it on the caffeine.

Seattle sits on Puget Sound, where shellfish are readily available. The city is known for its oysters.

Visitors to Seattle can stop at one of its many museums, like the Museum of Pop Culture, or look for the Fremont Troll, a giant sculpture under the George Washington Memorial Bridge. The colorful, if a bit gross, Gum Wall near Pike Place Market is worth seeing, and the market is itself well-known for its craftspeople, restaurants and fishmongers.

But few Emerald City attractions are more iconic than the Space Needle. The Space Needle was originally built for the 1962 World’s Fair and has become perhaps the most recognizable element of the city skyline. In just 43 seconds, you can ride the elevator all the way to the observation deck, where you can see far and wide over the rest of Seattle.

Across the street from the Space Needle is Chihuly Garden and Glass, home to the works of renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. The breathtaking installations make this TripAdvisor's top-rated Seattle attraction.

If the Space Needle is the most iconic component of Seattle's Skyline, the Great Wheel is No. 2. This Ferris wheel was built in 2012 and offers a different way to get a bird's eye view of the city and the surrounding mountains.

The Amazon Spheres provide an unexpected break from the hustle and bustle of the city with their four-story jungle-like interior, containing more than 40,000 plants. Another Washington-based company, Amazon, constructed the spheres to afford employees the tranquility of the rainforest without leaving the city. The Spheres are open to the public for free during the first and third Saturday of each month.

Kerry Park offers an extraordinary vista of the city skyline, Space Needle and all. On a clear day, Mount Rainier can be seen in the background. Photographers can often be found here as the sun goes down.

Washington's national parks and Seattle might be its most famous attractions, but you could see them all without even leaving the western half of the state — and even then, you would be missing other attractions in the west.

In the southwest of Washington, visitors can find the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, just south of Mount Rainier. "And that's a really cool place to go visit," Coleman said, "Because you can actually drive right up into the blast zone." The total devastation wrought by the volcano's 1980 eruption contrasts with the new growth that has regenerated in the area, making for a thought-provoking trip to a natural wonder that could easily be overshadowed by Mount Rainier.

The Columbia River Gorge isn't far away: "The Gorge is really a fantastic place. It's basically along the Columbia River, which is the river that separates us from Oregon. That whole gorge region … both the Washington and Oregon sides, is kind of like waterfall central," said Coleman.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

Orcas, gray whales and humpback whales can be spotted in Washington's Puget Sound all year round, and whale-watching boat tours are available at multiple locations along the coast. Most boats won't get too close to the whales, as some are endangered and have been killed in collisions with ships. Make sure to dress warmly and bring your binoculars.

The eastern portion of the state is totally different from what many think of as the wet environs of the Pacific Northwest. On the other side of the Cascade mountain range, it gets dry and hot. The city of Spokane provides an urban hub for excursions eastward and, though smaller than Seattle, offers arts and culture, craft beer and wine, and other trappings of an urban center.

South of Spokane lies Pullman, where Washington State University is located. Further south still is Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America. Though it lies mostly in Oregon and Idaho, a portion of it does fall in southeastern Washington. This gorge is popular for high-speed jet-boating during the hot summers.

The warm, sunny weather makes the region great for agriculture. "Wine country" is in the center of the southern portion of the state. The region, as you might be able to guess, is known for its more than 300 vineyards and wineries.

There are many reasons to visit Washington state, but many visitors tend to fit within a certain profile, Coleman told Fox News Digital: "Everybody has their different thing that they're wanting to accomplish when they visit, but overall … if they've chosen Washington as their destination, chances are they're looking for outdoor recreation or, you know, scenic views, seafood or national parks."

US NATIONAL PARK ATTENDANCE SOARED IN 2023 AS MILLIONS OF AMERICANS CONTINUE TO HEAD OUTDOORS

That is why Scenic Washington offers pre-planned road trip itineraries. The popular Cascade Loop begins from Seattle and circles the northern half of the state. The Palouse Scenic Byway explores Washington's east, from its central desert lands to lakes and waterfalls to the rolling wheat fields of the Palouse region, which holds the largest concentration of wheat per acre in the world.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle .

Original article source: Washington state travel guide: Breathtaking national parks, the bustling city of Seattle and beyond

Plan, Ready, Go®

36 Best Places to Visit in Washington State (By a Native)

If you’re looking for an amazing vacation destination, look no further than Washington. I was born in this beautiful state and lived there for the first 29 years of my life. I’m delighted to share with you the best places to visit in Washington State .

The Evergreen State has something for everyone, from stunning mountain ranges and awe-inspiring glaciers to vibrant cities and charming small towns. Washington is a great place to visit all year round, but my favorite time to be there is in the summer.

Get a FREE printable travel planner to help you plan your trip to Washington State.  

Key takeaways

• Washington State offers great variety, from mountain ranges and glaciers to large cities and charming small towns.
• Seattle is a must-visit city with its attractions like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, the waterfront, and the Seattle Art Museum.
• Washington is home to beautiful national parks: North Cascades National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, and Olympic National Park.
• Other notable attractions include the San Juan Islands, Snoqualmie Falls, Lake Chelan, Columbia River Gorge, Mount Baker, and charming towns like Leavenworth.

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See disclaimer.  

Seattle is a great city to visit for several reasons. First, it’s a beautiful place. There are also a ton of things to do in Seattle , whether you’re into museums and art galleries or you prefer to spend your time outdoors hiking and exploring.

Seattle is also home to some great food. You can find everything from fresh seafood to delicious international cuisine. And, of course, no visit to Seattle would be complete without spending some time in coffee shops and trying out the local coffee.

If you’re looking for a fun and interesting city to visit in Washington State, definitely put Seattle on your list. It makes a great Washington getaway for couples .

Below are some specific places in Seattle that you should see during your trip to Washington State.

Space Needle

The Space Needle was erected for the World’s Fair in Seattle in 1962 and has since become an internationally recognized symbol of the city. It’s one of the most photographed buildings on earth.

Be advised, the Space Needle is not an inexpensive attraction to visit; however, it is a pretty unforgettable one. They do have a few different ticket options to help you plan the best experience for you.

Even if you have only one day in Seattle , you should plan to at least pop by the Space Needle. It’s probably the most Seattle thing you can do.

Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is a unique landmark in Seattle, Washington. The market is located on the waterfront, and it is home to a variety of businesses, including seafood sellers, flower stalls, and specialty food stores.

In addition, the market is home to several arts and crafts vendors, making it the perfect place to find unique gifts and Seattle souvenirs .

They truly have something for everyone. And if you just window shop, it’s one of the great free things to do in Seattle .

T-Mobile Park

The Seattle Mariners have called this beautiful ballpark home since it opened in 1999 (when it was known as Safeco Field), and it’s become one of the most iconic stadiums in Major League Baseball.

The retractable roof protects fans from the drizzly Seattle weather, and there’s not much better than taking in a game with the roof open on a sunny day.

The views from inside the stadium are pretty unbeatable, and there’s plenty of great food to choose from.

If you’re ever in town, be sure to add catching a Mariners game at T-Mobile Park to your Seattle itinerary . And if a game isn’t on the schedule, maybe take a tour.

Seattle Gum Wall

The Gum Wall in Seattle is one of the most unique attractions in the city. The wall is covered in used gum, and visitors are always adding their own contributions.

The gum wall is located at 1428 Post Alley near Pike Place Market, and it’s a popular spot for taking photos. If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Seattle, the Gum Wall is definitely worth a visit.

Oldest Starbucks Store

The Starbucks located at 1912 Pike Place is not the first Starbucks store (though it’s often referred to that way), but it is the location where the first store moved in the mid-1970s. And it’s been operating there continuously ever since. 

If you love Starbucks as much as I do, waiting in line with tourists to get a glimpse of the inside of the store and snag one of the unique souvenirs is worth it.

Seattle Art Museum

The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is a world-renowned institution that houses an incredible collection of art from around the globe. Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, the museum is a popular destination for art lovers.

The SAM’s collection includes thousands of pieces of art, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary works.

It’s one of the finest art museums in the United States, so even if you have only a passing interest in art, it should really be on your list of things to see in Washington State. I’ve seen many wonderful exhibits at SAM and highly recommend a visit.

Designed by Frank Gehry—and once called the Experience Music Project—the Museum of Pop Culture offers exhibitions and educational programs dedicated to creativity and contemporary pop culture.

MoPOP is a great place to visit if you’re interested in learning more about music and popular culture.

These cities are great places to visit in Washington State

Olympia is the capital of Washington and a great stop on your trip, especially if you’re “collecting” state capitals. The Legislative Building (Capitol Building) is the centerpiece of the city and warrants a visit. They offer free daily guided tours that are open to the public.

If learning about the capitol building doesn’t interest you, might enjoy a stroll through one of the city’s many beautiful parks.

Walla Walla

Walla Walla is a small city in southeastern Washington with a big personality. With a population of just over 30,000, it’s the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of big city life.

But don’t let its size fool you – there’s plenty to do in Walla Walla. The city has a vibrant downtown with plenty of shops and restaurants, and there are also several parks and museums to explore.

Spokane, Washington, is also a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. From historic neighborhoods to the incredible natural scenery (they seem to think their fall colors can rival New England’s), Spokane is a great place to spend a few days

The city is home to numerous parks and green spaces, as well as an accessible downtown area with plenty of shops and restaurants.

And of course, no visit to Spokane would be complete without taking a scenic stroll through Riverfront Park. Or you might want to tackle a portion of the Centennial Trail which starts in Washington’s largest state park, Riverside State Park.

Washington State National Parks

When most people think of Washington State, they picture Seattle’s skyline or the snow-capped peaks of the Cascade Mountains.

Washington is also home to a diverse array of other landscapes, from temperate rainforests to deserts. And tucked away in these different ecosystems are some of the most beautiful national parks in the country. So whether you’re a nature lover or an adventure seeker, be sure to add these destinations to your list.

They would all make great weekend getaways from Seattle .

North Cascades National Park

If you’re looking to explore the great outdoors near Seattle, North Cascades National Park is a perfect destination. Hiking is the most popular activity in the park, and the best time to go is during the driest weather, from mid-June through September.

Even if you’re not an experienced backpacker or mountaineer, there are still plenty of trails that can be done in a day. There are at least five or six trails that can be completed in less than two hours.

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is one of the most stunning and iconic places in Washington state. The 14,000+ foot tall mountain is an active volcano, and the national park protects and preserves this natural wonder.

Mount Rainier is a popular destination for hikers, campers, and photographers, and it’s easy to see why.

The views are simply breathtaking, and there are countless trails to explore. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely walk in the woods, Mount Rainier National Park has something for everyone. So if you’re ever in Washington state, be sure to add Mount Rainier National Park to your list of places to visit.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is an amazing place full of striking scenery. The lush rainforest and mountains are just two of the many things to see in this unique national park located on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State.

Hiking through here with your friends or family will be a fun experience. I’m not a major outdoorsy person, but I enjoyed the hike to Marymere Falls. I liked it so much that I even wrote a college essay about it. I’m not joking even a little bit.

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is a must-see for anyone visiting Washington State.

Those who grew up in Washington State tend to think of Mount St. Helens as a watershed moment in their lives and mark time by how old they were, where they were, or what they were doing when it erupted in 1980.

Make sure you stop at the Visitor Center to explore the educational offerings, so you can learn more about what happened on that fateful date.

Fort Vancouver National Historical Site

Fort Vancouver National Historical Site is one of the coolest places in Washington State. It was established in 1948 as a way to preserve the history of this important Hudson’s Bay Company site.

It’s a large area that includes a reconstructed fort (the original burned to the ground in the 19th century) where you can learn all about the early days of the Northwest fur trade. If you’re looking for a fun and educational place to visit in Washington State, you should check out Fort Vancouver National Historical Site.

San Juan Islands

Some people, when writing about the best things to see in Washington State, lump all of the San Juan Islands together…as if it’s all one place (eye-roll). There are actually well over 100 named islands in the San Juans.

Each island is different. Below are my favorites.

Orcas Island

The 57-square-mile Orcas Island is regarded as the “gem of the San Juans” by some, and even referred to as the “Emerald Isle.”

Orcas Island is a stunning location to visit. Moran State Park has 38 miles of trails, and you can go up Mt. Constitution (the highest point in the San Juans) for great views of the region or try sea kayaking or whale watching, among other things.

If you’re planning on spending a day driving around Orcas Island, be sure to check out the scenic byway and visit Orcas Island Pottery–the oldest pottery shop in the Pacific Northwest.

If your visit to Orcas Island is a romantic getaway, I recommend you check out Rosario Resort & Spa.

San Juan Island

If you’re interested in sea kayaking, whale watching, or anything similar, San Juan Island is the place to go. San Juan is considered one of the best places to see killer whales.

Friday Harbor on San Juan Island is also a very walkable town, and just about anything you’d want to see or do is within walking distance of the ferry terminal.

Lopez Island

Lopez Island is a lovely place to visit, and one of the best ways to see it is by bicycle. The island is fairly small (about 30 square miles), so it’s easy to get around, and there are plenty of places to stop and enjoy the beauty of the island.

Lopez is also the least hilly of the San Juan Islands, although I definitely wouldn’t describe it as flat. Biking around Lopez with my best friend her father is one of the highlights of my Washington State explorations.

Don’t miss these other Washington State islands

Bainbridge island.

Bainbridge Island is just a short ferry ride from Seattle, but it can feel like a different world. It also makes a relaxing day trip from Seattle. The ideal location to unwind and recharge, Bainbridge Island is a popular destination for tourists.

While there you can visit the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (free admission) or the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum. Both are near the ferry terminal.

If you’re looking for something a little more outdoorsy, head to Bloedel Reserve. With 150 acres of gardens, forests, and meadows, it’s the perfect place to take a stroll.

There are also some great places to stay on Bainbridge Island if you want to stay over. The Eagle Harbor Inn is a small boutique hotel near the water.

Or try The Marshall Suites if you’re looking for something a little more spacious.

Whidbey Island

Whidbey Island is a lovely place to visit in Washington State. It’s only a short drive (plus a ferry ride) from Seattle, and once you get there, there are lots of things to do on the island.

You could follow the Whidbey Art Trail and explore the many studios, galleries, and sculpture parks the island offers. Or visit Fort Casey Historical State Park and stop by Admiralty Head Lighthouse.

Whidbey is the largest island in Washington State, so there are a few towns to choose from if you want to stay overnight.

If you’re looking for a more-or-less centrally located town, Coupeville might be the place for you. Or, if you prefer larger towns, Oak Harbor (on the north end of the island) or Langley (near the Mukilteo ferry) could also be good options to check out.

As far as places to stay, guests love the Saratoga Inn in Langley and the Captain Whidbey Inn in Coupeville.

Jetty Island

Jetty Island is a little slice of beach paradise just a stone’s throw from downtown Everett, Washington. It’s actually the longest sandy beach in Puget Sound.

This two-mile-long manmade island is only accessible by foot ferry or personal watercraft. It’s the perfect place to spend a summer day swimming, picnicking, kayaking, or just exploring.

State parks and other natural sites

Snoqualmie falls.

Just a short drive from Seattle you’ll find the beautiful 268-foot Snoqualmie Falls on the Snoqualmie River. Snoqualmie Falls is listed on the National Register of Historic Places because of its importance to the Snoqualmie people. 

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that’s luxurious and relaxing, Salish Lodge & Spa is hard to beat.

Deception Pass State Park

Deception Pass State Park is the most popular state park in Washington. It’s perfect for fishing, boating, hiking, camping, picnicking, or just strolling on the beach.

You can take in the beauty of both the Whidbey and Fidalgo islands when you visit this 3800+ acre park. With 77,000 feet of shoreline, you’re sure to find a spot that’s perfect for you.

The Deception Pass Bridge is an excellent sightseeing location, especially for those interested in photography. There are wonderful views from the bridge itself, which can be accessed by foot (though beware of potential crowds; this is the only bridge to Whidbey Island).

Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan is a beautiful place to visit in central Washington State. The glacier-fed lake is in the Cascade Mountains of central Washington. It’s an ideal location to unwind and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

At 33,000 acres, Chelan is the largest natural lake in Washington. There are many activities to enjoy, including hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming. In addition, you can enjoy restaurants and shops in town.

Whether you’re looking to “rough it” and camp or enjoy higher-end accommodations at a resort, Chelan has what you need. Try the Lakeside Lodge and Suites . It’s right on the lake and just a few steps from Lakeside Park.

Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most beautiful and picturesque regions in the United States. This location is recognized for its lush trees, rushing waterfalls, and breathtaking views.

If you’re going to be in the area in the fall, don’t forget to stop by and admire all of the colors on display!

There are numerous hiking and biking trails in the Columbia River Gorge, so it’s a great destination for nature lovers.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in the Columbia River Gorge, the Skamania Lodge in Stevenson, Washington, is a great option.

Mount Baker

Mount Baker is one of the most famous peaks in the Cascade Mountains. It’s a popular destination for skiers, snowboarders, and mountain climbers.

At 10,781 feet, Mount Baker is the third-highest peak in Washington State. It’s considered an active volcano even though it last erupted in 1843. You’ll find Mount Baker in the North Cascades east of Bellingham, Washington.

Palouse Falls State Park 

Palouse Falls State Park is one of Washington’s hidden gems. The park is home to the beautiful Palouse Falls that tumbles 200 feet over a cliff into a pool below. 

Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and bird-watching. In addition, the park offers three stunning views of the Falls.

Cape Disappointment

Located at the southwestern tip of Washington State, Cape Disappointment is known for its foggy weather. 

Visitors can explore and enjoy captivating views of the Pacific Ocean. But one of the best parts of Cape Disappointment is its history.

The cape was named by English explorer John Meares, who mistakenly believed that the mouth of the Columbia River was only a bay. Today, visitors can learn about Meares’ expedition at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center.

So whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy some fresh air or to brush up on your history, Cape Disappointment is a great place to stop.

Wonderful towns to visit in Washington State

Port townsend.

Port Townsend is a great place to see in Washington State if you’re looking for a charming small town. This picturesque town is located on the Olympic Peninsula and is renowned for its Victorian architecture.

It’s also a great place for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking (you’ve probably noticed that these are recurring themes in any destination listing featuring Washington State).

There are plenty of lodging options in Port Townsend, including bed & breakfasts, hotels, and vacation rentals. The Ravenscroft Inn is highly rated by guests for its service, amenities, and breakfast.

Leavenworth

If you’re looking for a place in Washington State that feels like you’ve traveled to Europe without leaving the United States, then Leavenworth is the place for you.

I’ve heard that Leavenworth is second only to Seattle in Washington State as a tourist destination. I’m not sure if it’s true, but I wouldn’t be shocked.

This charming town is nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. Here, you’ll find plenty of shops and restaurants to enjoy, as well as quirky attractions like a nutcracker museum.

There are many great places to stay in Leavenworth, but one of the best is the Bavarian Lodge in the heart of Leavenworth.

Pullman, Washington, is a small city in southeastern Washington State that’s also home to Washington State University.

The city is also known for its stunning scenery, with the Palouse providing a picturesque backdrop. Many visitors enjoy biking the Palouse, while those looking for a more urban adventure can explore the shops and restaurants downtown.

The quaint town of Winthrop, Washington, is nestled in the stunning Methow Valley, and is fondly known as the “Gateway to the North Cascades.”

With its picturesque mountain views and charming Western-themed architecture, Winthrop feels like it stepped right out of a John Wayne movie.

Today, this friendly town is a popular destination for those looking for Western-themed fun. You can also enjoy hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and nearby Pearrygin Lake State Park offers boating and campsites.

Other things to do in Washington State

Museum of flight.

The Museum of Flight is a must-see for anyone interested in aviation history. Located just outside of Seattle, the museum houses an impressive collection of aircraft, spacecraft, artifacts, and exhibits. 

In addition to the static displays, the museum also offers a variety of interactive exhibits, making it a great place for both adults and kids. The only time I’ve ever stepped aboard a Concorde or an “Air Force One” (retired) was at the Museum of Flight.

Grand Coulee Dam

Grand Coulee Dam is a massive hydroelectric dam located on the Columbia River in central Washington state. It’s the largest power generator in the U.S. by nameplate capacity. (I don’t really know what that means other than that this dam is huuuuuge.)

The dam was completed in 1942, and visitors today can take the dam tour (yes, I went there) to see the facility and learn about its history. 

Don’t forget to stop by the Visitor Center, and you simply must check out the laser light show at night. 

Bing Crosby House

The Bing Crosby House is a must-see for any fan of the legendary crooner. Located in his hometown of Spokane, Washington, the house is owned by Gonzaga University and offers a fascinating glimpse into Crosby’s early life.

The house features a collection of more than 200 pieces of memorabilia, including photographs, records, and personal belongings. 

Even if you’re not a big fan of Bing Crosby, the Bing Crosby House is well worth a visit. It’s a unique slice of American history that provides insight into the life of one of our most beloved entertainers.

When to visit Washington State

If you’re looking for the best time to visit Washington State, you’ll want to consider the weather. Summer is a great time to enjoy the good (drier) weather in Western Washington. The downside of that though is higher numbers of other travelers flocking to the same areas.

Fall is a good time to visit Eastern Washington when the temperatures are cooler. Late spring in Eastern Washington is historically the wettest time of the year there.

Winter is a great time to visit if you’re looking to enjoy some of the state’s winter activities, such as skiing and snowboarding. But mid-fall through winter is also the wet season in the Seattle area.

Spring is also a good time to visit, especially if you’re interested in seeing the state’s beautiful wildflowers in bloom. 

Ultimately, there is no wrong time to visit Washington State – it’s a beautiful place to visit year-round.

Final thoughts on the best sites in Washington State

Washington is a stunning state with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in the hustle and bustle of Seattle or want to get away from it all on one of our many gorgeous islands, there’s something for everyone here.

If you haven’t had the chance to visit Washington State, be sure to add at least one of these amazing destinations to your list. Do you have a favorite place to visit in Washington State?

More articles to help you plan your trip to Washington State

• Cheap things to do in Seattle
• Seattle weekend itinerary
• Perfect day trips from Seattle
• How to plan a travel itinerary
• Essential travel planning resources
• Perfect Washington getaways for couples

Pin this post!  

Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

Privacy Overview

Washington Travel Guide: Plan Your Perfect Trip

Written by Brad Lane Updated Sep 24, 2021

The state of Washington defines the Pacific Northwest. And its wild and wondrous landscapes invite several types of vacations and extended travel. Whether exploring one of the state's countless natural treasures or searching for more urban adventures, let PlanetWare assist you in planning a Washington vacation. Our guides on the best cities, outdoor spaces, and places to stay make planning a trip easier than ever. And whenever you travel, no matter the season, it will be easy to see how the Evergreen State gets its nickname.

On This Page:

Inspirational ideas for a trip to washington, best time to visit washington, visitors guide to seattle, other cities to explore in washington, small towns in washington, hiking, camping & outdoor adventures in washington, interesting and fun facts about washington.

Washington is a big state to explore, with several stunning landscapes and cities vying for attention. It helps to have an overview of everything the state has to offer when planning a trip. Our articles on the best places to visit and top vacation destinations provide an excellent resource for diving into a Washington vacation. And after getting a broad overview, it's fun to plunge into the best natural spaces, small towns, and places worth taking a camera.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Washington State & Places to Visit
• Best Small Towns in Washington State
• Best Beaches in Washington State
• Best Lakes in Washington
• Washington State in Pictures: Beautiful Places to Photograph

Summer: There's no wrong time to make a trip, but summer is well regarded as the best time to visit Washington. Adventure opportunities open up across the state, with snow-free mountain passes, more boats on the water, and longer days. The summer is an excellent time to visit all three of Washington's national parks, as well as the abundant forestland throughout the rest of the state. Summer in places like Seattle also draws big crowds, and for a good reason, as the city is also beaming with excellent weather.

Fall: September and October are excellent months to visit Washington. The busy summertime tourism tends to die down alongside the dropping temperatures. And a crisp cool accompanies both ends of the day. Washington's forests and wild spaces take on a new color this time of year, especially the larch trees, and many summertime activities are still accessible into September. Many of the high mountain passes in Washington receive their first snow flurries by October.

Winter: Winter is a special time in Washington. While the days are shorter, and the forecast is rainier on the west side of the state, activity doesn't go dormant during the winter season. Several ski resorts across Washington cater to downhill and cross-country skiing alike. Other places like Leavenworth celebrate the season with festivals and events.

Spring: Spring is a fun time to visit Washington. Weather in March and April is a mixed bag of rain, sleet, and incredibly sunny days. This forecast keeps the busiest of crowds at bay while opening up several activities and vacation opportunities. Bring a rain jacket and waterproof boots when visiting in the spring, and enjoy the many moments when the rain attire isn't needed.

The Emerald City is a top destination to visit in Washington. Millions of tourists flock to this Pacific Northwest hub of art and culture throughout the year, and especially during the summer. And the city offers several avenues of entertainment for all types of vacations and extended getaways.

Seattle offers a unique blend of live music and creative culture for memorable city experiences. And the flavor of Seattle, found at local coffee houses and places like Pike Place Market, is as aromatic as it is fun to dive into while visiting. And it's the city's beautiful surroundings, with places like Puget Sound and Mount Rainier never far from the horizon, that also attracts adventure lovers from around the world.

Things to Do in Seattle and Nearby:

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Seattle, WA
• Top-Rated Things to Do in Seattle in Winter
• Top-Rated Beaches in the Seattle Area
• Top-Rated Hikes near Seattle
• Best Parks in Seattle
• Top-Rated Day Trips from Seattle, WA
• Top-Rated Weekend Getaways from Seattle
• Top-Rated Campgrounds near Seattle

Where to Stay in Seattle:

Getting around Washington from Seattle:

• From Seattle to Olympic National Park: 5 Best Ways to Get There
• From Seattle to Mount Rainier National Park: 4 Best Ways to Get There

Washington is full of fun cities to explore. Like the capital of Washington, Olympia, several of these growing metropolises surround Seattle in the state's western half. However, the east side of the Cascades is home to other cultural hubs, including Spokane, the second-largest city in the state. And while all these large communities share similar attributes, several stand out on their own with a unique community and tourist appeal.

• Top-Rated Things to Do in Tacoma, WA
• Top-Rated Things to Do in Everett, WA
• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Olympia
• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bellingham, WA
• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bellevue, WA
• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Vancouver, WA
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Spokane, WA
• Top-Rated Campgrounds near Spokane
• Top-Rated Hiking Trails near Spokane
• Top-Rated Things to Do in Wenatchee, WA
• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Yakima, WA

For an authentic Washington experience, consider adding a small town to the itinerary. Some of the best small towns in Washington offer unforgettable adventures, including whale-spotting, hut-to-hut skiing, and Bavarian festivals. Other popular activities spanning from small towns include backpacking adventures, white-water rafting, and skiing and snowboarding throughout the winter.

• Top-Rated Things to Do in Port Angeles, WA
• Top-Rated Things to Do in Leavenworth, WA
• Top-Rated Things to Do in Winthrop, WA
• Top-Rated Things to Do in Snoqualmie, WA
• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Puget Sound

The Great Outdoors is a building block of Washington tourism. The state's many natural spaces, ranging from glaciated peaks to wild beaches, attract millions of visitors every year. And with premiere national parks, renowned ski slopes, and verdant environments like wild rivers, rainforests, and state-spanning hiking trails, Washington delivers adventure every day of the year.

The state of Washington is world-renowned for its national parks. It has three crown jewels of the National Park System: Mount Rainier National Park, Olympic National Park, and North Cascades National Park. The state is also home to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. And while it's almost impossible to rank which one of these natural playgrounds is the best to visit, it's a very fulfilling experience figuring out which one is your favorite.

Mount Rainier National Park

• Top-Rated Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park
• Top-Rated Campgrounds at Mount Rainier National Park

Olympic National Park

• Exploring Olympic National Park and the Hoh Rain Forest: A Visitor's Guide
• Top-Rated Hiking Trails in Olympic National Park
• Top-Rated Campgrounds in Olympic National Park

North Cascades National Park

• Top-Rated Campgrounds at North Cascades National Park
• Top-Rated Hikes in North Cascades National Park

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

• Top-Rated Hiking Trails at Mount St. Helens
• Best Places to Camp near Mount St. Helens

More Outdoor Activities in Washington

• Best State and National Parks in Washington
• Best National Forests in Washington State
• Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Washington State
• Top-Rated Campgrounds in Washington State
• Top-Rated Hiking Trails in Washington State
• Top-Rated White Water Rafting and Kayaking Adventures in Washington
• Top-Rated Hot Springs in Washington
• Top-Rated Waterfalls in Washington State
• Best Hiking Trails near Leavenworth
• Best Campgrounds near Leavenworth

What is Washington Known For? Washington is well known for its dramatic Pacific Northwest surroundings. The Cascade Mountains run right through the western part of the state, and the dramatic Washington coastline includes otherworldly spots like Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. Included in this outdoorsy reputation are three stunning national parks, over 200 state parks, and six national forests. Washington is also well known for the culture of Seattle, the largest city in the Pacific Northwest. From industry-leading businesses like Microsoft and Boeing to an ever-evolving sound spanning well beyond grunge music, the city's influence spans the globe.

What is the Washington State Flower? The Washington State flower is the Coast Rhododendron, sometimes referred to as the Pacific Rhododendron, and scientifically known as the Rhododendron macrophyllum. This evergreen shrub is prevalent along the Washington Coast and farther inland. It blooms a pretty pinkish color between May and June. Other state symbols in Washington include the Western Hemlock (state tree), willow goldfinch (state bird), and steelhead trout (state fish). Washington's state gem, petrified wood, is on display at Ginkgo Petrified Forest in the Wanapum Recreation Area.

What Sports Teams are in Washington? Washington has six major league sports teams. The Super Bowl-winning Seattle Seahawks of the National Football League call CenturyLink Field in Seattle home, as do the Seattle Sounders soccer club of Major League Soccer. The Seattle Storm of the Women's National Basketball Association also calls Seattle home at Climate Pledge Arena. And new to the Seattle sports scene, the Seattle Kraken of the National Hockey League will play their first season in 2021, also at Climate Pledge Arena.

A short drive south of Seattle, the neighboring city of Tacoma is home to the OL Reign. Formerly known as Seattle Reign FC, this celebrated soccer club was a founding member of the National Women's Soccer League.

Is Mount Rainier an Active Volcano? Mount Rainier is an active volcano with a long track record of eruptions. Specifically, Mount Rainier is a stratovolcano with a million-plus-year history of episodic eruptions. The last significant event took place approximately 1,000 years ago. The postcard mountain, the highest in the Cascade Range, sits near over three million residents of the Seattle-Tacoma area.

While scientists are confident that Mount Rainier will erupt again, it's hard to pinpoint when that will happen. Extensive observation and surveying occur on all sides of Mount Rainier. When an eruption is imminent, the public will have plenty of time to prepare.

For a firsthand look at Washington's not-so-distant volcanic past, visitors should head to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, 50 miles southwest from Mount Rainier. This similar stratovolcano experienced a massive eruption event in 1980, leaving behind today an enormous crater that hikers can access with a permit.

What is Puget Sound? Puget Sound is the large body of water between the Seattle region and the Olympic Peninsula. It's a complex collection of waterways, islands, and inlets where the ocean mixes with inland freshwater drainage. This complicated environment is the second-largest estuary in the country, behind the Chesapeake Bay, and is a defining landscape of the Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan area.

• Arts, Culture & Heritage
• Food, Wine, Beer & Spirits
• Natural Beauty
• Outdoor Activities
• Scenic Byways
• Spa & Fitness
• All Things To Do
• Restaurants
• Regions & Cities
• Visitor Guides & Map
• Visitor Centers
• Transportation
• Interactive Map
• State Regions
• Enewsletter

Official Washington State Visitors' Guide

Here is our handy resource that you can print, download or order.

Washington State Visitors’ Guide is the essential, one-stop source for Washington State travelers. With stunning photography, detailed maps, and insider information on the state’s must-see attractions, the guide highlights the unique and appealing aspects of each of the state’s diverse travel regions. Convenient, complete, and compelling, the Official Washington State Visitors’ Guide makes it easy for travelers to find everything they need to enjoy and extend their stay in the Evergreen State. Order yours today!

This map features the routes with a brief description of all 29 of our state's Official Scenic Byways.

• Work With Us
• Blogging Bootcamp

• Van Conversion Academy
• Campervan Shop
• Campervan Rentals
• Plan a Trip
• Itineraries
• Destinations
• Responsible Travel
• Family Travel
• Budget Travel
• Scuba Diving
• Travel Credit Cards
• Digital Nomad
• Teach English Abroad
• Blogging Resources
• Income Reports
• Travel Shop
• Meet Katie & Ben
• About Two Wandering Soles
• Personal Stuff
• Portfolio & Press

40 Best Things to Do in Washington State

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » 40 Best Things to Do in Washington State

Whether you want to try skiing or snowboarding, go on challenging hikes, camp on the beach, or paddle down whitewater rapids, there are plenty of things to do in Washington state. We’ve put together a list of bucket list adventures and top places to see along with all our insider tips for planning your journey.

With the epic Cascade Mountain range, cold weather rainforests and one of the fastest growing cities in the nation, Washington state is a gem in the Pacific Northwest.

With adventures for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels and a mix of big cities and small towns, there is something for everyone in this west coast state. I even would go as far to say it’s our favorite state in the US.

(Shh…don’t tell our fellow Oregonians!)

From Washington state’s best kept secrets to can’t miss destinations, we’ve put together a list of places and things to do in Washington that you can add to your PNW Bucket List. 

Whether you live in the Evergreen State and are looking for a weekend adventure or you’re  road tripping through the PNW , we’re rounding up a huge list of amazing places to visit in Washington that are sure to stoke your wanderlust!

Article Contents

Do you already know what you’re looking for? Use the links below to jump down to that section:

• Amazing Adventures  in Washington State
• Big Cities & Small Towns  in Washington State
• Most Epic Nature  in Washington State
• Best Scenic Drives  in Washington State

Ultimate PNW Bucket List!

Traveling around the Pacific Northwest? We have just what you need!

We’ve created the  ultimate PNW Bucket List , filled with fun and unique adventures. From epic outdoor escapes to off-the-beaten-path foodie experiences, we have a little something for every type of traveler!

Go ahead and grab your copy now.  It’s free , so what do you have to lose?!

Want to try out #Vanlife while visiting Washington?

It’s no secret we’re obsessed with #vanlife. However, if you don’t have the time (or interest!) in  building your own conversion  but you still want to give van life a test drive, we’ve got options for you…

Check out our list of top companies for  USA Campervan Rentals , from budget to bougie, we’ve even included some  exclusive discounts for our readers. 

Or, if you already know you’ll be starting and ending in Seattle, we also have a detailed guide to the best campervan rentals in Seattle , specifically.

One company we’d recommend looking into is  Escape Campervans . They have 12 different locations across North America and come fully loaded with all the gear you need for an epic road trip. Plus, their rates are fair and affordable.

BONUS:  We’ve partnered with them to give you a  10% off discount when you use our  link !

A note about camping in Washington state

If you’re traveling in a campervan or simply hoping to save money on your visit to Washington by  camping along the way , we have a deal for you!

The Dyrt  is our favorite campsite locating app with the largest database of campgrounds (44,000+ campsites and counting!) and over 1 million user-submitted reviews. Plus, it’s super user-friendly, and has some pretty cool features, like a outdoor gear contests and forums to connect and seek advice from fellow campers, that you won’t find on any other camping app.

Try their Pro Membership for FREE  for 30 days and gain access to the offline version of the the app, utilize their trip planning feature AND get exclusive discounts on campsites and gear!

Amazing adventures in Washington state

To start off, we’ve rounded up the most amazing adventures we could find in Washington state.

1. Camp on Shi Shi Beach

The beaches in the Olympic Peninsula  are what Instagram dreams are made of. With craggy sea stacks jutting out of the water and the surf crashing up against them, there’s no arguing the beauty of this rugged coastline.

Spending the night under the stars on one of the Olympic Peninsula’s beaches is arguably one of the coolest places you can camp in Washington state .

Second and Third Beach are easy to get to and quite popular, but our pick was Shi Shi Beach. Being that it requires a 2-mile hike through a muddy trail to reach, Shi Shi doesn’t see the same crowds as some of the other beaches in the OP. Plus, the beach is nearly 1.5 miles long, so there’s ample space for people to spread out and enjoy driftwood bonfires in solitude.  

We’ve put together a guide to camping on Shi Shi Beach , complete with everything you need to know about getting there and what to pack! (There are a few things you definitely won’t want to forget!)

2. Hot air balloon flight beside Mount Rainier

It’s not often we can be convinced to wake up before sunrise, but this once-in-a-lifetime experience was definitely worth making an exception for.

Flying in a hot air balloon at sunrise directly in front of Mount Rainier is easily one of the coolest things to do in Washington state, and definitely a bucket list experience in the PNW. 

You’ll launch just prior to sunrise, which gives you the opportunity to 

Peep the sun rising into cotton candy skies as you soar weightlessly over the Earth from thousands of feet in the air. Not only do they fly right in front of Mt. Rainier, but you’ll also float over rivers, lakes, and forests—the idyllic Washington landscapes. 

I was invited on a hot air balloon flight with Seattle Ballooning and was seriously impressed with everything from the epic views (umm, hello Rainier!) to my super passionate pilot. 

I wrote all about my experience hot air ballooning in Seattle for anyone who is interested or on the fence about booking a flight. I included everything from my honest opinions about the experience and what to expect on a flight, to insider tips like what to wear. 

There are a few hot air balloon companies in the region, so here’s why we chose Seattle Ballooning :

• They’re the #1 rated balloon company in the NW. Need we say more?
• They earn rave reviews that speak for themselves. Seattle Ballooning was also featured in the NY Times and The Washington Post this year. 

Choose from different flight options – from a private flight to an original group ride that carries 8-10 guests – one thing’s for certain; this will be one of your most memorable experiences in Seattle without a doubt.

Discount alert! We’ve secured a 10% discount for anyone booking their hot air balloon ride with Seattle Ballooning. Just use the code: “ 2soles ” when checking out! 

3. Take a food tour with Savor Seattle

You probably already know we are big time foodies. Anytime we visit a new place, we are always keen to check out the local food scene right away. And we’ve found the very best way to get a good feel for the local cuisine is to go on a food tour.

We’ve been on food tours in cities around the world (from Bangkok to Portland to Kathmandu), and we can honestly say we’re a bit obsessed. Tasting specialties from the best restaurants, plus, getting the insider scoop on the local favorites—what’s not to love!?

If you’re a foodie and looking for things to do in Washington state, we think the food tours offered by Savor Seattle look pretty darn tasty! 

They are Seattle’s #1 rated food tour company, and they earn rave reviews on Google and TripAdvisor. Need we say more?

Plus they offer different tour options for different “foodie styles,” so there really is something for everyone. 

• Gourmet Food & Drink Tour: This tour is heavy on the season and sustainable ingredients while exploring Seattle’s gourmet scene. Many of the tastings are paired with a wine, cocktail or beer. 
• Booze & Bites Tour: This laid back tour is more like a progressive happy hour with new friends; a little food and a little buzz. 
• Chocolate Indulgence Tour: Seattle may be known for coffee, but this tour explores the other favorite bean in town.. Yep, the cocoa bean! Seattle has more than 50 chocolatiers, after all.
• Splurge-Worthy Food Tour: This one sounds more like a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those who are up for an adventure and willing to splurge. The 3-day Gourmet Kayak Expedition on the San Juan Islands runs infrequently, but it looks like it would be an adventure of a lifetime.

Discount Alert! We even have an exclusive discount for you! Use the coupon code:  TWOSOLES5 when you book your tour to receive 5% off your experience .

4. Hike to the Enchanted Valley Chalet

You’ve probably seen the photographs of the iconic barn-like structure, flaked by snow-capped mountain peaks in this surreal place known as the Enchanted Valley.

Situated on the Olympic Peninsula as part of Washington’s Olympic National Park , the Enchanted Valley Trail is known for epic views and plentiful wildlife. The 27-mile out-and-back trail makes an epic multi-day backpacking trip in the OP.

Sound like something you’re interested in?  Read more about hiking the Enchanted Valley Trail  and plan your visit. It’s definitely one of our favorite backpacking experiences in the OP!

19. Spend the night in a Mountain Hut

If you’re looking for a cold weather adventure, we’ve got a perfect idea for you! Situated up in Mount Tahoma Hiking area are 4 mountain huts that can only be accessed during the winter. 

Strap on your cross country skis or snowshoes and trek into the wilderness knowing you’ll soon be rewarded with a cozy cabin, a hot meal and an epic view of Mount Rainier. 

These huts are communal, so there will likely be others staying there as well, making it a great place to mingle and play card games! 

• Bruni’s Snow Bowl Hut:  We stayed in this newly renovated hut and were pleasantly surprised with the spacious and modern facilities. Snow Bowl Hut has a spectacular view of Mount Rainier, but unfortunately when we were there the clouds were in the way. (Sleeps 14 people)
• High Hut:  We wanted to book this hut but it was full when we went. It has amazing views of Mt. Rainier, Mt. St. Helens, and Mt. Adams. (Sleeps 8 people)
• Yurt:  6 miles to get to make it the most isolated hut in the area, which could be exactly what you are looking for. (Sleeps 6 people)
• Copper Creek Hut:  5.5 mile hike on the Rainier Vista Trail leads you to the hut (located in a different area than the othe three). (Sleeps 14 people)

Tip:  Pack something easy to cook for dinner, like quinoa or rice, pre-cut vegetables and seasoning. (Extra tip: We carried up a bottle of wine to pair with our super classy camp dinner, which was a nice touch!) While there are some staple items in the huts, you’ll want to be prepared with your own ingredients. The appliances and cookware in the hut we stayed in were surprisingly very nice!

How to book:  You must make reservations with the  Mount Tahoma Trails Association , and weekends tend to fill up in advance.  

Psst! If curling up in front of a fireplace is on your Washington bucket list this winter, check out these cozy cabins in Washington you can rent for your next holiday (or staycation!).

6. Discover the Enchantments

If you’re a hiking enthusiast, the Enchantments should definitely be on your radar. With piercing blue glacial lakes, wildflower meadows, wild mountain goats roaming at their leisure and peaks that are as stunning as they are challenging to climb, this wilderness area certainly lives up to its name.

But don’t expect to just show up with your tent and hiking boots. The Enchantment Wilderness area holds an annual lottery, and of the 18,000 applicants, only 728 are granted a camping permit in the Core Enchantments area. 

It may seem a bit stingy, but when you consider that these limits are to protect a wilderness area from being overrun by crowds, you will understand. Find out everything you need to know to plan for hiking the Enchantments , including how to apply for your permit. 

Alternative to the Enchantments: This hike is lesser known, but comparable in beauty. The best part is that you won’t need a permit.

• Tuck and Robin Lakes : 16 miles round trip with 2900 ft elevation gain; this is a difficult overnight hike, but supposed to be equally as beautiful as the Enchantments.

7. Soak in a hot spring

While there aren’t as many hot springs in Washington as the neighboring states of Idaho and Oregon , there are still a handful of ones you can visit.

Our favorite hot spring is not far from Stevens Pass, and requires a bit of a hike to get to. But soaking in steamy water with mountain views and hopefully only a few other people will make the effort well worthwhile. We have a complete guide to Scenic Hot Springs including exactly how to get there on our sister site.

Hot spring etiquette

If you choose to go hot spring soaking in Washington, please be respectful of the environment and fellow soakers and follow these general rules for hot spring etiquette.

• NEVER leave any waste behind. This includes fruit peels and nut shells, as they are not native to the environment and can be harmful to local wildlife. Plus, it’s gross for others to see a rotting apple core right next to their soaking spot. Go above and beyond and perhaps carry out any trash you see that others have left behind. 
• Follow the rules about the particular hot spring: What hours are they open? Is camping allowed nearby? Can you bring dogs? Is a fee or a pass required? Do a bit of planning and don’t break these rules, so that the springs can stay open for years to come.
• Know the rules on nudity. Some hot springs in Washington allow nudity, but be sure you know for sure beforehand. And expect other soakers to be nude. Don’t go if this will bother you.
• Be respectful when taking photos. If people are nude, be sure you’re not making anyone uncomfortable, and perhaps refrain from taking pictures in some places.

8. Paddle down whitewater rapids

Get your adrenaline pumping on one of Washington’s many rivers. Our friends Lance and Justine run Wildwater , a highly reputable and professional rafting company that runs trips in 6 different rivers all over the state of Washington.

Whether it’s your first time in a raft or you’re a seasoned pro, there’s a river with rapids at just the right level for you. Just remember to follow the safety guidelines and wear proper apparel to have the best possible experience!

Note: If you book a whitewater rafting experience with Wildwater , tell them Ben and Katie from Two Wandering Soles sent you!

9. Go on an epic hike

There’s no shortage of epically beautiful hikes in Washington state . From easy trails with standout views to challenging overnight backpacking excursions, there’s something for everyone.

Hike (part of) the PCT

The Pacific Crest Trail runs north to south from the border of Mexico all the way up to Canada, and some of the best sections of the trail are in Washington. Hiking the whole trail takes a few months, but if you don’t have just a few months off of work, you can always just do a section.

We’ve been told the most beautiful section of the PCT is between Stevens Pass and Snoqualmie Pass that takes about 5 or 6 days to complete. We would love to do this hike some day, do you want to join us?!

10. Spend the night in a fire lookout

Forget tent camping; one of the most unique things to do in Washington state is sleeping in a fire lookout. These structures were made with the intention for volunteers to be on the watch for forest fires. And since they are perched high atop mountain ridges, they offer spectacular views.

Some fire lookouts are still in use, while others are open to the public and people can actually spend the night in them. We’ve personally done this a few times in Washington and Oregon, and while the sleeping conditions aren’t exactly luxurious, the experience of waking up with the sun, surrounded by nature without another human in sight is well-worth it!

One of the most popular lookouts to spend the night is the “lookout cabin” at the top of Mount Pilchuck .

More info: Here’s a list of all the fire lookouts in the state of Washington .

Note: Don’t expect a hotel. These lookouts are non-reservable, so expect communal sleeping with basic comforts.

11. See a concert at The Gorge Amphitheater

This epic outdoor venue has incredible acoustics and is a stunning backdrop for live performances, making it arguably one of the best natural amphitheaters in the world.

Seeing a  show at the Gorge Amphitheatre  had been on our “bucket list” for years, and in 2019, we finally were able to see a concert there. Dave Matthews Band does a 3-day-long show at The Gorge each year over Labor Day weekend, and it blew us away.

But if DMB doesn’t float your boat, don’t worry. From reggae to country to pop to electronic, you’ll find shows from just about every genre. And there’s a ton of BIG names that perform in this epic venue year after year.

Check out their  concert calendar  and choose a show that speaks to your musical taste. Some shows are just one day, while others span over a weekend and include camping and a festival atmosphere. 

12. Sample craft beer

Just like its PNW neighbor Portland , Seattle is well-known as a craft beer capital. With an abundance of breweries and taprooms, you’re never too far from a good pint in the city.  

However, Seattle is not the only place in the state to get excellent brews. There are great breweries all over Washington state. Here are a few we’d recommend checking out.

• Fremont Brewing (Seattle): This is one of our favorite spots with a huge selection of tasty brews, a cozy fireplace, a nice outdoor area, and free pretzels and local apples to munch on. Try the nitro porter and the double IPA, or order a flight for a real party!
• Georgetown Brewing Co (Seattle): This brewery has one of our all-time favorite IPAs: Bodhizafa. If you’re an IPA fan like we are, definitely give this one a try, You won’t be disappointed!
• Cloudburst Brewing (Seattle): Creatively-named tasty beers, walking distance to Pike Place Market and always willing to “down-pour” you a brew.
• Black Raven Brewing Co. (Redmond): This award-winning brewery offers an assortment of classic and unique seasonal brews. 
• Icicle Brewing Company (Leavenworth): A town staple and family-friendly establishment in Leavenworth serving up handcrafted brews 7 days a week. 
• Blewett (Leavenworth): Another favorite in Leavenworth that also has great pizza!
• Walking Man Brewery (Stevenson): Open Wednesday – Sunday, this spot is serving up unique brews in the Columbia River Valley town of Stevenson. 

13. Eat fresh seafood

There’s really no better place to eat seafood than right from the source. Being that Seattle is situated right on the coast, there are plenty of great options for indulging in the freshest seafood. 

Here are some of our favorite seafood options on the Washington Coast:

• Pike Place Chowder serves up a tasty bowl of creamy seafood goodness.
• Elliot’s Oyster House is known for its selection of fresh oysters and sustainable seafood choices.
• Salty’s on Alki Beach is a great place to get your surf and turf fix. 
• The Crab Pot is a casual eatery serving up their seafood with paper bibs and mallets.  
• Fins Bistro has a mouth-watering array of seafood dishes in Issaquah. 
• Andy’s Fish House in Snohomish is serving up delectable oysters, chowders, salmon and more. 

14. Go skiing or snowboarding

If you love winter, take advantage of the fantastic snow Washington has to offer. With 16 ski resorts across the state — each with their own vibe — you’ll have plenty to choose from. 

Here are some of the most well-known ski resorts in Washington state:

• Stevens Pass Mountain Resort :  Located in a National Forest about 1.5 hours from Seattle, you’ll feel a world away from the city and can enjoy some of the 450 inches of powder this resort receives on average each year!
• Crystal Mountain :  Largest ski resort in Washington, complete with an enclosed gondola lift and the highest restaurant in the state of Washington.
• Mount Baker :  Boasting the (unofficial) highest average snowfall of any resort in the world at 641 inches, Mount Baker is the perfect place to enjoy some excellent powder.
• Summit at Snoqualmie :  Just 52 miles from Seattle, this resort is conveniently located and offers runs for beginners as well as advanced skiers; and for those non-skiers, there’s tubing!
• Mission Ridge :  Wide open runs that face east means Mission Ridge is sunny when many other resorts are not; but this can also mean the runs get icy more quickly.
• Hurricane Ridge :  Located on the Olympic Peninsula, this is the only place in the world you can go surfing and skiing within 17 miles of each other! A small ski resort is only open Friday – Sunday (and occasional holidays).

Or of you prefer to make your own tracks, there are tons of epic places to ski in the backcountry. Just be sure you are an experienced skier, have been trained in avalanche safety and have proper equipment. The backcountry is not a place for those who are inexperienced or underprepared. 

Psst! Check out this guide for what to wear skiing to help you pack for your trip!

15. Go snowshoeing & cross-country skiing

To be honest, we didn’t love winter until we moved to Washington state. Being from Minnesota, we know how brutally cold winters can get. But in Washington, there is plenty of snow without the frigid bite of old man winter. 

Being able to explore the outdoors in the wintertime was a game changer for us. There are so many cross country skiing or snowshoeing trails throughout Washington that it’s hard to just highlight a few. Washington Trails Association has a  great list of where to go cross country skiing and snowshoeing in Washington . 

Psst! If you’re a total newbie, check out this  beginners guide to snowshoeing  to find out everything you need to know to get started!

16. Get your adrenaline pumping while mountain biking

If you love the adrenaline of skiing but prefer t-shirts to winter coats, consider taking up mountain biking. The state of Washington offers countless trails suitable for beginners to experts.

Here’s a list of the  best mountain bike trails in Washington state .

And if you’re looking for a little introduction to this sport (think a lesson and some rental gear), head to  Stevens Pass Bike Park . Once the snow melts, this ski resort transforms into a bike park, with the chairlifts being used to carry your bike to the top. It’s a perfect spot for beginners (like us!) to learn, or for advanced level bikers to tackle the technical trails. 

17. Chase waterfalls around the state

The Pacific Northwest is overflowing with waterfalls (see what we did there!?). From grand displays that drop from an impressive height to raging rapids cascading down river beds, there are plenty of waterfalls to go around. 

Here are some of our favorite Washington waterfalls : 

Palouse Falls

Prior to visiting this waterfall, we’d seen pictures of it plastered on Pinterest and Instagram, and seeing it in real life was pretty darn epic. With rolling green valleys carved out by these powerful falls that crash down to create a winding river, the landscape looks eerily similar to Iceland .

While there’s not much to do in the area other than see the waterfalls, this is a great stop on a road trip to Idaho and also makes a fun day trip.

Before you visit Palouse Falls, consider these words of warning: 

• Think about the time of year. The super gorgeous photos you see online are almost all taken in late spring or early summer when the grass is green and the water is flowing fast from the spring melt. If you show up later in the summer, expect the grass to be turning brown and the fall itself to have much less water volume. We’ve heard that in the late summer months and early autumn it can be reduced to just a trickle. When we visited in early June, the falls was a bit past its peak.
• Be extremely CAREFUL when walking on the trails near Palouse Falls. We’re not trying to scare you, but on the day we arrived there were diving crews recovering a body of a man who had fallen off a cliff the day before. Wind near the falls is surprisingly strong, the dusty paths are slippery and the shale rock can crumble easily beneath your feet. For your safety, do not go past the fences or the warning signs.

Next Read: Eco-friendly packing list to help minimize your footprint and save you money.

Snoqualmie Falls

Just 30 minutes outside of Seattle, Snoqualmie Falls is one of Washington’s most recognized landmarks. Dropping from an impressive 268 feet, the falls range from 50-100 feet wide depending on the time of year and the water level. 

A significant spiritual site for the indigenous Snoqualmie Tribe, this incredible waterfall has mesmerized humans for thousands of years. 

Psst! Check out these other beautiful waterfalls near Seattle that can easily be visited on a day trip!

18. Have an epic camping adventure

Exploring the diverse state of Washington is undoubtedly best done by car, while camping along the way. This will ensure you get to spend the most time outdoors and experience all that Washington has to offer. 

There are some pretty epic spots for camping around the state, from camping in the backcountry on the Enchantments trail to camping on the beach in the Olympic Peninsula. (See #1 and #6 on this list for more info!)

With the help of some fellow travel bloggers and outdoor enthusiasts, we rounded up the best campsites in Washington over on our sister site. These campsites range from backcountry gems to car camping hot spots. 

If you’re on a budget and looking to save money, we have an entire guide for how to find free camping in the U.S. This guide has all of our tips and hacks for finding the best free camp sites around the country. 

Plus it includes an in depth look at our favorite camping app we mentioned at the top of this article: The Dyrt . 

19. Hike to the top of Rattlesnake Ledge

Located at the entrance to Snoqualmie Valley, Rattlesnake Ledge is one of the best easy-access hikes near Seattle with a big payoff. 

The moderate, 5.3-mile hike ascends through a beautiful pine forest before reaching the ledge—a famous lookout point with impressive views of Rattlesnake Lake, and nearby Mount Si and Mount Washington. 

The steady but not-too-exhausting climb gains an elevation of 1459 ft and should take about 3 hours to complete, making this a perfect day trip from Seattle . 

Note: If you’re visiting on the weekend, reward your efforts after summiting the Ledge at the nearby Chateau NoElle Winery (only open Saturdays).

20. Visit wine country

Though it usually flies under the radar—when most people think about “wine country” in the U.S. Napa Valley is at the top of the list—Washington is actually the second largest wine producing state in the country.  

Due to the prevalence of microclimates, as well as varied altitudes and diverse soil types across the state, you’ll find a huge diversity in wines across Washington. Recently the state has been receiving a lot more credit for the wines produced there.

Just 30-minutes outside of Seattle, you can visit Woodinville Wine Country , which boasts more than 100 wineries and tasting rooms, as well as 14 breweries, cideries and distilleries, and 30 restaurants.

You’ll feel like you’re worlds away from the big city as you sip some of the very best local wines by acclaimed producers. And you can still make it back to Seattle in time for dinner reservations!

21. Taste the best doughnuts

Are you ready to get let in on a local secret??

Sultan Bakery has perhaps the best doughnuts we’ve ever tried! 

This unassuming spot, located just off Highway 2 in the tiny town of Sultan, is the kind of place you’d drive right past if you didn’t know what you were looking for.  

The no-frills establishment boasts a reasonably-priced menu as well as a bakery case that’ll make you drool. Everything we’ve tried there has been fantastic, but their buttermilk bar doughnuts are my personal favorite. And if you like the fancier donuts, there are plenty to choose from as well as cakes, cookies, and bars, oh my! 

It’s gotten to the point where stopping here is a must whenever we cross the mountain pass (aka when we’re headed to Stevens Pass for skiing or in the direction of Leavenworth ). And in between stops, I kid you not, I dream of these doughnuts. 

Other notable mentions are their sandwiches constructed between slices of their signature homemade white bread, and their breakfast burrito, which is easily big enough to split between two.

Big cities & small towns in Washington state

Washington is home to one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation as well as charming towns you likely have never heard of. This mix of big city excitement and small town charm is just one of the reasons we love traveling in Washington state.

22. Leavenworth

While Seattle is often shrouded in a cloak of clouds and rain, Washington state enjoys many different climates, some much sunnier and drier than its biggest city. In fact, if you head east over the Cascade Mountains, you’ll end up in the little Bavarian town of Leavenworth, Washington and you’ll likely find much different weather than Seattle.

With incredible hiking , whitewater rafting, skiing, mountain biking and a tight knit community of locals, this is one of our favorite towns in the United States. 

We spent a winter season in this magical mountain town while we worked at nearby Stevens Pass Mountain Resort and we found that there is so much more to Leavenworth than its kitchy, German-themed exterior.

We even put together a local’s guide packed with fun things to do in Leavenworth .

23. Seattle

There’s a lot to love about Seattle. From world-renowned coffee to a thriving live music scene to must-see tourist attractions, this city is diverse in its population and in things to do . 

Most visitors traveling to Washington state make a stop in Seattle, and for a good reason. This is one of our favorite major cities in the United States.

Whether you’re visiting Seattle for the first time and only have a few days, or you are a new resident to this rapidly-growing city, we’ve put together an ultimate guide for things to do in Seattle .

24. Bellingham

Not far from the Canadian border, Bellingham is a good size city: big enough to have everything you need, including a buzzing nightlife, but little enough to retain a small town charm.

Things to do in Bellingham

• Go Berry Picking:  If you’re in Bellingham during the summer, head to one of the nearby berry farms to pick your own blueberries and raspberries. We picked a whole crate of fresh berries at  Boxx Berry Farm  for only $5.
• Brewery Hopping:  We really love  Wander Brewing , not only for their name, but for their large selection of unique beers. We’ve tried quite a few beers here and have always been impressed. We often find ourselves leaving with a growler in hand. Oops! Bellingham is also home to  Boundary Bay Brewery  (try their Inside Passage Ale, a very good IPA!),  Stones Throw Brewery , and  Aslan Brewing .

25. Skagit Valley

Just a little more than an hour from bustling Seattle, this makes a great day trip from the city.

Most famously known for its annual Tulip Festival, which takes during the month of April, there are more  things to do in Skagit Valley  than glimpse the flowers (though it is well worth a visit if you’re in Washington during the springtime!).

Funny Story:  Just after buying  our first campervan  (yay!) we headed to Skagit Valley to celebrate amongst the tulips. Someone had told us we could park in town and walk to the tulip farms, and the pin on Google Maps made it look not very far… but it ended up being a roughly 5-mile walk! We got there just as the sun was setting and the farms were closing for the day. We ended up hitchhiking back to town. Oops! Definitely bring your car, as the tulip festival is set up as a driving tour. Learn from our mistake!

26. Winthrop 

If you want to get a little taste of the Wild West without venturing too far, Winthrop is sure to put a little swagger in your step and a twang in your voice. The facades shops in this western-themed look as if they belong on a set in Hollywood, and there is of course a General Store Emporium and sweets shop. 

Things to do in Winthrop

• Wander around the main street  and take pictures of the Western facades.
• Grab a craft beer  (or 2!) at the  Old Schoolhouse Brewery . If the weather is nice, get a table in the shade by the river.
• If you’re in this area in the winter, there is  epic cross country skiing in the Methow Valley !

Tip:  If you’ve made it all the way to Winthrop, drive through the neighboring town of Twisp (or make a short stop!). Known as the “heart of the Methow Valley”, this town of less than 1,000 residents is just 9 miles south on highway 20.

27. Stehekin

Be charmed by this remote wilderness town situated at the end on Lake Chelan. The only way to get to Stehekin is by hiking (which takes 2-3 days) or by ferry (4 hour ride). We opted for the latter.

While it is possible to take the ferry to Stehekin, disembark, explore for 90 minutes and return to Chelan all in the same day, we’d strongly encourage you to give it a bit more time and stay a night or two. 

With just a handful of year-long residents, this tiny town feels almost like you’re on an island. Locals have had cars carried over in the ferry, but since you can’t drive very far in this town, cars last a lot longer than they do in a typical city. Most of the cars you’ll see are quite old, giving this little lakeside mountain town a feeling as if it’s stuck in time.

We spent 2 days here, but wish we had more time to do some of the longer hikes like the McGregor Mountain trail or the Purple Creek trail.

Things to do in Stehekin

• Eat at the Bakery:  We can’t say anything negative about the  Stehekin Pastry Company . It is adorable and everything we tried was fantastic. From the gazpacho to sandwiches to jalapeño cheddar bagels to the raspberry cream cheesecake (we went there 3 times in 2 days – don’t judge!), everything was clearly homemade and fresh.Even their day-old baked items still taste great, and the price has been cut. Lots of PCT through hikers spend a day in Stehekin, and we saw some of the staff handing out day-old baked goods to the hikers for free. What a sweet idea!

When you get off the ferry, you’ll likely see a shuttle bus taking passengers to the town’s famous bakery. Hop on board if you’re in a hurry, or walk the 2 miles instead if you’ve got time to spare — you’ll get a lovely introduction to the area if you go on foot.

• Get fresh goat cheese at The Garden:  If you visit Stehekin, you have to visit the sweet man that runs the Garden. It’s just a 7-minute walk (heading back to town) from the bakery. The Garden is beautiful with rows of flowers and vegetables. The farmer sells fresh goat cheese and honey that is amazing.

• Go Hiking:  There are plenty of hikes to do around Stehekin. From the visitors center, you can head south and hike along the Lakeshore trail. It’s nice to go for a mile or so, but if you want you can continue for 17 miles back to Chelan. The visitor’s center can provide you with a map of many more hikes of all lengths.
• Shorter Walks:  If you walk north on the road from the bakery, you can reach landmarks like the Old Stehekin Schoolhouse, Rainbow Falls and the Buckner Orchards.

• Hitchhike with a local:  If you end up walking too far up the road (like us) and not wanting to trek back to town, Stehekin is a perfectly safe place to hitch a ride. And if a local sees you walking in the afternoon hours, they’ll likely slow down and offer to drive you. There is only one road and people are extremely friendly. 
• Go swimming:  There are plenty of swimming spots near the visitor center. It’s nice on a hot day, but the lake can be pretty cold depending on the season. 

Camping in Stehekin

Immediately after getting off the ferry, head to the Ranger Station to choose a campsite. We visited Stehekin in August, and there were still plenty of campsites available at the Purple Point Campground when we arrived at 12:30 in the afternoon. 

Most epic nature in Washington state

Washington has it all: Mountains, Oceans, Lakes, Forests, Rivers, Valleys and Waterfalls. You’d be hard-pressed to find another state with just as much beauty and diversity of nature. 

28. Olympic Peninsula

Across the Puget Sound from Seattle, the Olympic Peninsula sits with its wild beaches, towering mountains, dense rainforests, fairytale waterfalls, port towns and Native American reservations. At just about 2 hours from the city, this makes for a great day trip from Seattle . 

The Olympic Peninsula (the “OP”, for short) is full of so much epic beauty that we have an entire article dedicated to things to do in Olympic National Park . And for hiking enthusiasts, we also have a round up of the best Olympic National Park hikes for all levels and abilities. 

Psst! If visiting the national parks is on your bucket list, you may want to look into getting the America the Beautiful Park Pass to save money on entrance fees.

29. Lake Diablo 

The spectacular turquoise waters of Lake Diablo will make you squint, rub your eyes and make you wonder if you are in fact dreaming. Yes, this is real life, and no, this lake has not been injected with dye.

That milky turquoise water you find in many Washington lakes comes from the sun reflecting onto tiny particals of glacial “rock flour”. The turquoise color becomes more vibrant later in the summer months. 

Camping near Lake Diablo

There are plenty of camping spots near Lake Diablo. Some of the more popular camping sites are Thunder Point Campground and Colonial Creek Campground.

However, our favorite campsite is the Gorge Lake Campground. It’s a small, 8-spot campground with fire pits and toilets, but it is right up next to Gorge Lake with trails that go along the lake. It’s far from the busyness of Lake Diablo and a nice home base for exploring. And the best part is it is FREE!

3. Mount Baker

This epic mountain is beautiful year round. Whether you come for the skiing during the winter months, or you prefer to hike when the snow has melted, Mount Baker is a sight to behold. We visited during both the winter and summer and truly can’t decide which season we prefer.

Mount Baker in the Summer

With wildflowers, sunshine and clear views of the famous peaks – Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan – summer is the perfect time for hiking and photography in North Cascades National Park.

• Artist Point  – Only open in the summer time, you can drive through the Mount Baker Ski Area up to Artist Point where you have 360 degree view of the surrounding peaks like Mount Baker, Mount Shuksan, and Mount Herman. Hiking 1 mile loop.
• Chain Lakes Loop Trail  – A great day hike for those who are up for a challenge. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation Gain: 1700 ft
• Nooksack Falls: This thundering waterfall is just a short drive off of Mt Baker Highway (542) and is right next to the parking lot. Be careful as there are many signs of the number of people who have fallen in. There is a chainlink fence next to the trails, but we would advise not to lean on it.
• Camping around Mount Baker:  Silver Fir Campground – Spots line up against creeks that flow into the North Fork Nooksack River and is only 14 miles from Glacier, WA. 15 of the 21 spots are reservable, there is a picnic shelter, vault toilets, and water available. $16 per night.

Mount Baker in the Winter

Mount Baker boasts some of the most epic skiing in Washington state. Whether you’re looking for resort runs or to get lost in the backcountry, Baker is sure to be any snow-lover’s paradise. And if you’d prefer to be on flat ground, you’ll be able to find trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the area, too.

• Skiing at Mount Baker. Duh. This is why you come in the winter!
• Snowshoeing or cross country skiing
• Stop at  Wake ‘n Bakery  for a caffeine fix and breakfast before heading out for the day!
• Aprés skiing beer and pizza at  Chair 9  (Tip: If you can’t decide between 2 specialty pizzas, order it half & half for the same price) and pair your ‘za with a craft beer.
• Carb up with pasta at well-loved  Milano’s Pasta Fresca

4. North Cascades National Park

National Parks like Glacier , Yosemite , Great Smoky Mountains, and Yellowstone seem to get all the love. But if you prefer nature without the crowds, you’re in for a treat because Washington state’s North Cascades is one of the least visited National Parks in the U.S.

In fact, in 2018, North Cascades National Park saw just over 30,000 visitors, while Great Smoky National Park saw 12.5 million visitors in 2019. And when you take into consideration that the North Cascades covers more than 500,000 acres, you’ll soon realize that’s a lotta wilderness to explore!

Fun Fact: North Cascades National Park has more than 300 glaciers, which is more than any other U.S. national park outside of Alaska! Cool, huh? (Literally!)

Things to in North Cascades National Park:

• Hike the epic Maple Pass Loop (7.8 miles total), which is one of the best hikes in Washington state.
• Take a scenic road trip along the North Cascades Highway (more on this in #39).
• Stop at Washington Pass Overlook for an epic view (pictured above).
• Hike to Blue Lake, or join in other adventurers in rock climbing or ski touring in this area.
• Check out this otherworldly emerald waters of Diablo Lake (more on this in #29).
• Fall in love with the tiny, lost-in-time town of Stehekin (more on this in #26).

Psst! North Cascades is just one of the many cool national parks on the West Coast and western United States that you may not have heard of, but are certainly worth a visit. 

32. Lake Chelan

With a length of 50.5 miles long, you might be fooled into thinking this is a river when you first see it on a map. But make no mistake, this is Washington’s biggest lake. And it’s actually the 3rd deepest lake in the United States (28th deepest in the world!). 

Spending a weekend in on the lake is a popular summer getaway for many Washington families. Chelan, with its opportunities to go boating and winery hopping (did we mention there’s vineyards nearby?!), is a hotspot for bachelorette parties and girls trips! 

But honestly, in our opinion, the town of Chelan itself was lacking a certain “wow” factor. If you’re going to make it a stop at Chelan,  we would highly encourage you to make it to the tiny town of Stehekin at the end of the lake  (info below in #14). It will most definitely be the highlight of your time on Lake Chelan (it definitely was for us!).

33. Mount Rainier

At 14,410 feet (4,392 m), Mount Rainier is the tallest mountain in Washington. This iconic peak can be seen from Seattle on a clear day, but the best way to experience its grandeur is to get up close and personal.

Open year-round, Mount Rainier National Park is the most visited of the national parks in Washington state and made up of 97% wilderness. With some of the most epic vistas accessible even to families with young hikers, this national park is a can’t-miss for hikers, climbers and outdoor enthusiasts. 

34. San Juan Islands

This cluster of islands sit near the Canadian border and are known for their laid-back small towns and epic natural beauty. Oh, and did we mention there are WHALES!

Don’t pass up the opportunity to  go on a whale watching tour  and see these beauties up close. San Juan Island (Friday Harbor), Orcas Island and Lopez Island are the most populated of this archipelago, and have the most choices when it comes to dining and accommodation.  Camping on San Juan Island  is an option too!

More info:  Read up on the  San Juan Islands  and start planning your trip!

35. Mount St. Helens

This active volcano lies 96 miles south of Seattle. Mount St. Helens is most famous the major eruption in May of 1980 that killed 57 people, making it the deadliest and most destructive eruption in US history. 

Visit this natural and historic landmark and spend your time at the visitors center with interpretive displays, or get out on the walking trails and explore caves and lava-carved canyons. If you’re up for getting your sweat on, there are some great  hiking trails near Mount St. Helens  for all levels and abilities.

More info:  This website has  visitors center hours and information on planning your visit to Mount St. Helens .

36. Colchuck Lake

Relatively easy to access, Colchuck Lake makes a wonderful day hike and an even better place to spend a couple nights beneath the stars. Note that you will need a permit to camp here during most times of the year.

This alpine lake is a stunning blue that has to be seen in person to believe. Colchuck itself is a marvel, but it is an entry point to the Enchantment Wilderness (see #17 for more info), easily one of the most naturally beautiful places we’ve ever seen in person.

The hike to Colchuck:  This moderate hike is 8-miles round trip and has a 2,280-foot elevation gain, so be sure to bring plenty of water and start early if you’re planning to return. Check out our  Colchuck Lake trail guide  for all the info you need to plan your hike.

Insider tip:  After completing your hike (or camping trip!) to Colchuck, head into Leavenworth and grab a beer at one of the many restaurants, breweries or beer halls. Find more info on Leavenworth in #10.

37. Lake Valhalla

Don’t let its position on this list fool you, Lake Valhalla provides ample opportunity for outdoor adventure in any season and is one of our top things to do in Washington state. Imagine snowshoeing in winter, picnicking amongst wildflowers in late spring, swimming in the summer, and strolling through gorgeous fall foliage in autumn. 

There are several trails you can take to access the lake, depending on which direction you’re coming from and how difficult a hike you’re looking for. 

The Smithbrook Trailhead is the easier trail, approaching from the east. A moderate 3.6-mile (one way) trail, also popular with snowshoers in the wintertime. This route is less scenic but has more shade and a more manageable incline.

The slightly longer Lake Valhalla Trailhead follows part of the PCT and offers awesome views of Stevens Pass. The 7-mile round trip trail has a bit more elevation gain as the easier route, and more ground to cover.

Check out our  Lake Valhalla hiking guide  on our sister site for all the info you need to plan your hike.

Best scenic drives in Washington state

Washington state has some incredibly scenic drives through mountain passes and past rushing streams. This is the perfect part of the United States to set off on a road trip with a great playlist and a car full of snacks.

You will need to plan ahead a bit however, because many of the scenic roads in Washington are not open until snow has been cleared off. The dates vary each year, so you’ll have to do a little bit of research before setting off on your road trip!

38. Drive along the scenic Mountain Loop Highway

This scenic highway loops through the western section of the Cascade Mountains, from Granite Falls up and around to Darrington. You’ll be rewarded with stunning mountain views, rushing rivers and ponderosa pines along the way, so be sure to pull off every so often and enjoy the view. A drive along this 52-mile (84 km) scenic highway makes a perfect summer road trip.

Whether you simply drive through the loop, which should take 2 – 3 hours, or you spend a few days exploring all this area has to offer, this stunning place is a good escape from the city. A road trip on the Mountain Loop highway will allow you to enjoy amazing views without the crowds of more popular areas in the state.

Beware:  There is an 14-mile section of the highway that is unpaved over Barlow Pass (after Silverton to just before Darrington). When we arrived in mid-May, this section of the highway was not open, so we had to turn around.

Things to do on the Mountain Loop Highway

• Ice Caves:  One of the more popular stops along the highway are ice caves, though they are sometimes closed depending on the time of year.
• Old Sauk River Trail:  Easy mossy river walk past the remains of old mines on parts of a pioneer trail.  6 miles roundtrip, 150 foot elevation gain
• Lake 22:  Mountain rainforests, old-growth and wetlands.  5.4 miles roundtrip, 1,350 foot elevation gain
• Goat Lake Trail:  Waterfalls and a beautiful lake at the end.  10.4 miles roundtrip; 1,400 foot elevation gain
• Mount Pilchuck:  Difficult climb is rewarded with 360-degree views of Mount Baker, Mount Rainier and the Olympics from a shelter lookout.  5.4 miles roundtrip; 2,500 foot elevation gain

Tips for your trip to the Mountain Loop Highway

• Stop at the  Verlot Public Service Center  to get information about the trail conditions, pick up maps and talk to the friendly owners about the history of this area. It’s quite interesting!
• Stock up on food and ice.  There aren’t many shops or restaurants along this highway (aside from Granite Falls and Darrington). If you plan to camp, bring your own food and snacks. And be prepared with a full tank of gas.

Camping along the Mountain Loop highway  

There are a smattering of campgrounds along the highway, but we were advised to skip those and simply pull over on the side of the road where there are frequent pull out areas. It is legal and safe to camp here, and we loved pulling  our campervan  over whenever we felt like it. (Though if you’re tent camping it may be more comfortable in an actual campsite, and you won’t have trouble finding one.)

“Glamping” on an Alpaca Farm

If you prefer something a little bit more luxurious, why not spend the night at an alpaca farm?! Yes, we’re serious!  Paca Pride  makes a perfect place to base yourself while exploring all the Mountain Loop Highway has to offer. This guest ranch is just outside of Granite Falls (only 55 miles from downtown Seattle!), and the onsite yurt is beautiful. And if you prefer to “rough it”, you can bring your own tent and set it up on their covered platforms.

39. North Cascades Highway (Highway 20)

One of the most beautiful drives in the USA is the 127 miles from Sedro-Woolley to Winthrop across Highway 20, otherwise known as the North Casacades Highway. You’ll pass by Lake Diablo, mountain passes and countless hiking trails.

Hot Tip:  I’m going to let you in on a secret along Highway 20, and if you take my advice and pull over, you will not be disappointed! Headed east on Highway 20, just 3 miles past the tiny town of Rockport, you’ll see the  Cascadian Farm Roadside Stand  on your left. Don’t pass it by! Park your car, head into the small shop and order a raspberry milkshake, which is made with their homegrown raspberries and homemade ice cream.

At $7 for a large milkshake, it ain’t cheap, but you will not be disappointed. Enjoy it under the sunshine in their outdoor seating area.

Washington Pass Overlook (hiking, lake, backcountry skiing)

Okay, so you’re cruisin’ along the North Cascades Highway and all the views are gorgeous, but then BAM, you see it: The Liberty Bell. This spire rock formation is enough to make you slam your brakes and reverse to the nearest parking lot.

Whether you’re just stopping for a photo from the overlook (just a quarter mile from the parking lot), you want to get a short hike in, or you want to backcountry skiing and climbing all in one stop (we saw people doing it!), Washington Pass is not to be missed.

At 5,500 feet, this pass is the highest part of the North Cascades highway, and well worth a visit.

40. Stevens Pass Greenway

Follow the winding Skykomish River through farmland as you head towards the jagged peaks of the Cascade Mountain Range on the Stevens Pass Greenway. A scenic byway in its own right, you’ll pass through quaint small towns like Sultan, before ascending the 4,061-foot Stevens Pass, providing mind-blowing views year round. 

Many travelers coming from Seattle simply zip through Stevens Pass on their way to Leavenworth or other eastern Washington destinations. However this stunning area is worthy of one—or even several—days of exploration. 

Top Things to Do in Stevens Pass

• Check out the Stevens Pass ski area. While small, this resort has many highly technical runs due to the area’s steep peaks (see #14 on this list). 
• If you want to attempt a summit hike in Stevens Pass, Beckler Peak is a tough but jaw-dropping option.
•   Thunder Mountain is another one of our favorites.
• Stop at Sultan’s Bakery for the best doughnuts you’ve ever tasted! (See #21 on this list)
• Try bouldering or climbing at the Index Town Wall , supposedly one of the premier rock climbing spots in the country. 
• Go white water rafting down the Skykomish River.

Are you planning a trip to Washington?

We’ve had the privilege of calling Washington state “home” for a while and we have tons of resources to help you plan your trip. Start with our Washington homepage and be sure to check out the articles below. Leave us a comment if you have any more questions!

• Check out all the fun things to do in Seattle .
• You’ll wanna read up on where to stay in Seattle and keep this guide to the best Airbnbs in Seattle handy.
• These day trips from Seattle make for nice retreats from the city. 
• Don’t miss the cutest little town in the state: Leavenworth (we lived there for 8 months and have all the local secrets!).
• Keep this Washington National Parks guide close by. 
• Read this if you’re planning a trip to Olympic National Park !
• Start checking these Mt Rainier hikes off your bucket list.

Save this article on Pinterest for later!

Have you traveled to Washington state?

What is your favorite spot? Would you add anything to this list? Let us know in the comments below.

Comments (24) on “ 40 Best Things to Do in Washington State ”

Much appreciate your site/Blogs !! Note: Cascade WA forests west of the crest are fir/hemlock and red cedar at low elevations. Pine tends to occur east of the crest, where drier. Plus ‘selfies’ of/with mtn goats are not advisable. An aggressive goat killed a person some years back on the Olympic Peninsula.

Should mention the ‘Cashmere Crags’ near Leavenworth WA as another premier rock climbing/bouldering area in the US. And Scenic Hot-Springs for a good warm soak.

As always Great blog

So much peace Enjoy

The easiest and most convenient way to travel to Washington is by flight. There are so many amazing campsites in Washington. Camping is a great way to travel on a budget and get closer to nature.

Great things to do in washington.

Those all are amazing places to visit and thing to do in Washington! Thanks for sharing

Taking a 14 day trip; half near Leavenworth and the other half near Seattle. Will be trying to visit many places on your list. Your site has been a huge help in planning this trip and we are so excited! I also love that you are fellow DMB fans <3

Bellevue. Bellevue is one of the best places to visit in WA. With its city even better than Seattle, the architecture has amazing parks, playgrounds, shopping, and every winter an indoor/outdoor ice skating arena! Also, Ruby Beach is a really fun one too! Another one of my favorites is Seabrook WA. They have amazing horseriding near ocean shores, and you can book a rental home for the week, or just drive there and come back the same day for an amazing trip to the pacific ocean! So next time you take a trip to WA state or just want fun mini vaca, visit these spots for an amazing adventure!

Hello from a life-long climber/hiker/PCT trekker: IMO the best WA ST PCT segment is Stevens Pass to Glacier Peak, though Snoqualmie Pass to Stevens Pass is also great. Note 1: the PCT has been re-routed in places due to the 2006 and other floods/fires, etc.. Note 2: The Seattle Mountaineers cabin at Stevens Pass caters to PCT trekkers; check it out at mountaineers dot org .

Im surprised you don’t have Lake Cushman on here! That area is so beautiful and the lake is amazing!!!

I was wondering where the authors were from until reading #1 and knew immediately not from Washington. The only thing you’ll get from Washingtonians when calling the Olympic Peninsula "the OP" is a raised eyebrow, everyone here just calls it "the peninsula".

This list certainly includes the most instragram recognizable spots but there are awesome spots in eastern WA that will be less crowded and are not included but I guess most visitors only have limited time when visiting.

Hey Lindsey, thanks for your comment. You’re right, we are not originally from Washington State but we spent the better part of a year living there and loved every minute of it. While there most locals we met did call it the OP and it was quite rare to hear people use the term the peninsula. I guess that might depend on where in the state you are from. We’d love to hear some awesome spots in Eastern WA. We didn’t get a chance to travel out there too much, so feel free to share below! Thanks!

Heyyy. I live in Iowa. Was thinking of a trip to Washington state with my three young adult/teenage kids. Haven’t been there before, but heard it’s a very beautiful state. While searching, stumbled upon this article. Looks amazing. I’m very excited now, but don’t know where to start. Is that possible to visit all these places at once, like in 10 days? If not, what are your suggestions. Thanks a lot.

Hi Sadagat, great question. You wouldn’t be able to see all these spots in 10 days. We lived there for nearly a year and barely got to see all these places. For 10 days, it really depends on what you are into seeing/doing. If you want a road trip, you could take the Mountain Highway Loop to to the North Cascades Highway and then swing around back to Seattle via Highway 2. With stops, that would definitely take 10 days. If you’re really into nature, we’d recommend heading over to the Olympic Peninsula which has great hiking and camping. I’d say pick out the ones you like best and piece them together on a map. Happy planning!

You should never ever condone “hitchhiking” ever. This comment could potentially put someone’s life at risk!

Hi Jaclyn, I can completely understand your concern about hitchhiking. I would not recommend hitchhiking on large highways in the US. However, in Stehekin where the population is 75 people and there are only a handful of roads, we felt perfectly fine hitching a ride with a friendly local. Of course, having someone with you would be recommended to add an extra layer of safety with the "buddy system".

Will try to do same Thanks for sharing

I’m currently traveling in the North US, and while I love the weather here, I definitely miss the northeastern Autumn.

There are so many great options here! To be honest, I had never thought of Washington State as a tourist destination – the only thing I thought of when I thought of the state was grunge music! But this definitely sounds like an amazing place to visit. Some great ideas if I ever get back to the USA 🙂

Oh it’s so much more than grunge Music! We love traveling in Washington State because of all the things to do! Hope you get a chance to travel there sometime.

Hi, Native Washingtonian here. I grew up in Eastern WA, and currently live NW of Spokane. WA does not end with the east slopes of the Cascades. Our plateau and and sagebrush desert is beautiful and wide open. The Blue Mountains are just a short jaunt from Walla Walla, Dayton, or Pomeroy. The Palouse is stunning so you really should drive up Steptoe or McCrosky buttes with your digital camera for the sunset and 360 degree views. The Columbia Highlands between the Okanogans and the Rockies offer fantastic skiing and winter recreation as well as camping, fishing, birding, rock climbing and hiking in the warm season. Did I say we had HUCKLEBERRIES? Spokane has quit rolling up the sidewalks at 5 pm and boasts a hopping bar and restaurant scene these days with several local brewpubs and wine tasting rooms to check out. (Our fave micro brewer is No-Li, and they have cheap eats right on the river just a few blocks from Downtown; favorite winery is the Barrister Winery with a tasting room Downtown). Come Labor Weekend and enjoy a week of free concerts and (not free) food booths at Pig Out in the Park. And we butt right up against the Idaho Panhandle. OMG you have to check out Priest Lake and the Selkirks, Cabinets, and the Coeur d’Alenes. These westernmost ranges of the Rockies are wonderful with more moose than tourists and the skiing is legendary at Silver Mountain, Mt. Spokane, and Lookout Mountain.

Hey Laurie, thanks for such a thoughtful comment. Those all sounds like fantastic places to visit the next time we’re in Washington! There’s a reason we love this state so much — there’s just endless amounts of places to see and things to do!

Hi there! Native (Eastern) Washingtonian also! Lived there for 30 years, spent the last year in North Carolina, and cannot wait you get back! Can’t tell you how many times I have to describe Washington State to people because they only think of rain and Seattle (and it’s unfortunate reputation as of current). There is so much more to eastern WA than Chelan. Definitely spend some time on the eastern side next time you go to Washington. Yakima Valley has amazing beers and is home to 3/4 the US’s hops- check out Bale Breakers, great wine (personal favorite is Terra Blanca in Benton City, and Treveri Cellars). Lots of new farm to table restaurants coming too. Show the east side some love too. Personally, I think it’s the best side. I battle telling people how amazing Washington is and not so we can keep some oasis up there in the upper left USA.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit in Washington State

Last Updated By VI on April 22, 2024 in Things to Do in Washington State & Places to Visit

Kitsap Peninsula

Spokane, wa, port angeles, port townsend.

• Complete List & Map

The Kitsap Peninsula encompasses no less than nine state parks, and 14 city parks where you can hike, cycle and bird watch. There are several golf courses and a number of wonderful gardens to visit. The towns of Kitsap Peninsula offer unique galleries, shopping and dining. ---> Hansville, located on the northern tip of the Kitsap Peninsula , is well worth a visit, offering sweeping views of Admiralty Inlet, Whidbey Island, and Puget Sound . Visitors can stay at the Point No Point Lighthouse , explore the walking trails along the Hansville Greenway, picnic on the shores of Buck Lake, and much more.

Thrill-seekers can enjoy an exciting zip line adventure with Mica Moon Zip Tours, or try their hand at white-water rafting along an impressive 8-mile stretch of the Spokane River with ROW Adventure Center. The Mount Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park becomes a hive of activity during winter. The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC) is an impressive museum which includes five underground galleries and an outdoor amphitheater. Finally, round off your weekend by attending a performance of the Spokane Symphony Orchestra at the historic Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox. --->

Art lovers are in for a treat at the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center & Webster's Woods, where an excellent selection of art by Northwest artists is exhibited, along with over 100 sculptures in the surrounding 5-acre Webster's Woods. You can go on a walking tour of the Downtown area, visit the Fiero Marine Life Center on the waterfront, and go antiquing in the local shops.

You can visit some interesting museums including the Puget Sound Coast Artillery Museum, the Port Townsend Aero Museum and the Jefferson Museum of Art and History. Port Townsend has two historic theaters, The Uptown and the Rose Theatre, where you can watch movies, and there are a variety of clubs and pubs offering live music entertainment to round off your day. Try to be in town for the Gallery Walk on the first Saturday of each month.---> More day trips in WA

Walla Walla

There are several museums where you can learn about the history of the town including the Fort Walla Walla Museum, the Whitman Mission and the Kirkman House Museum. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, cycling, bird watching, fishing and hunting at several venues and skate-boarders and BMX fans can have hours of fun showing off at Fort Walla Walla Park and Mill Creek Sportsplex. Children can have a fun learning experience at the Children's Museum of Walla Walla, while connoisseurs can enjoy a wine tasting at a few of the 34 tasting rooms in town or go on a winery tour. --->

On rainy days families can head to the Techcity Bowl & Fun Center for bowling, billiards and arcade games. You can enjoy wonderful scenery and catch a rare glimpse of some lakeside homes of the rich and famous on a short cruise on Lake Washington with Argosy Cruises. When another brilliant sunset brings the day to an end, you can have a leisurely meal at one of Kirkland's many restaurants, or enjoy a beer or wine tasting at the Chainline Brewing Company or The Grape Choice. --->

Friday Harbor, San Juan Island

Art and shopping enthusiasts can have a great time exploring several arty attractions including the San Juan Islands Museum of Art, Waterworks Gallery and Island Studios Art Gallery and the Arctic Raven Gallery. There is more shopping available at Kings Market, Funk and Junk Antiques and Dan Levin Originals. A good way to round off a busy day is to visit one of several Day Spas for a relaxing massage, before you catch a show presented by Island Stage Left theater troupe. --->

Leavenworth

Next read: Washington Resorts

Yakima Valley

Wine connoisseurs can enjoy tasting the produce of dozens of wineries in the Yakima Valley , most of which offer tastings and cellar tours. You can also go on the Spirits and Hops Trail, or take the children to pick fruit and berries during harvest time.

There are museums to satisfy all interests. The Center for Wooden Boats is probably one of the most unique museums because it offers you the chance to set off in an ancient maritime craft and learn how to row, sail and do repairs. Other museums include the EMP Museum dedicated to modern culture, the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and the Museum of History and Industry. Possibly the most interesting of all is the Museum of Flight which is home to 160 historic aircraft including a genuine Concord and a Space Shuttle Trainer. AFoodies are spoiled by the number of choices available with an array of amazing food tours to satisfy just about every palate. --->

Ellensburg, Washington

On Saturdays you can visit the KC Farmer's Market for fresh local produce, and if you are in town on the first Friday of each month you can join the Ellensburg First Friday Art Walk, when several shops and galleries display their works. --->

Gig Harbor is a small town on the shore of Gig Harbor Bay on Puget Sound in Washington. Called "the gateway to the Olympic Peninsula ," Gig Harbor is close to several large state and city parks and has developed into a popular tourist destination. On the way to one of the parks, spend some time in the charming city with its vibrant historic waterfront lined up with fancy boutiques, gourmet restaurants, cafes, and bars. Stroll along the docks, sit at the outdoor table at one of the many coffee shops, and enjoy the view of the boats in the harbor or the snow-covered slopes of Mount Rainier in Mount Rainier National Park . Rent a kayak and see the city from the water, hop on a Riviera Cruise, or rent a romantic Gig Harbor Gondola. History buffs can learn more about the city’s past at the Harbor History Museum or the Gig Harbor Peninsula Historic Society. Check out what grows in the area at the colorful farmers market at Skansie Brothers Park and Netshed, right on the harbor.

Nature lovers should not miss a visit to the Sehome Hill Arboretum to commune with nature, while art lovers can head to the Western Washington University Campus to see the Outdoor Sculpture Collection at the Western Gallery . At the waterfront, you can book a whale watching expedition or board a ferry to visit the San Juan Islands .

Family favorites include the Kids Quest Children's Museum, which offers interactive activities for all ages, and the Kelsey Creek Park & Farm where city children can have country-style fun and learn about farm animals. Shoppers can enjoy strolling around Bellevue Square, the city's oldest mall which houses over 180 stores, many popular restaurants and a children's play area, or window-shopping at The Shops at The Bravern, an exclusive shopping complex featuring many big-name designer brands. The Bellevue Art Museum provides an ever-changing variety of exhibitions and offers hands-on workshops and programs for artists. --->

To experience the great outdoors you can make your way to Point Defiance Park where there are miles of walking and cycling trails, the lovely Point Defiance Rose Garden, the Point Defiance Pagoda and the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, which is a family favorite. Other attractions for families include the Explore It Scavenger Hunt and the Children's Museum of Tacoma where kids can have hours of fun with hands-on learning experiences. Finally, you can explore an eclectic selection of boutique shops, restaurants and music venues along Sixth Avenue. --->More day trips from Tacoma

Other interesting attractions you can visit include the Clark County Historical Museum, the Water Resources Education Center, the Cathlepotle Plank House and the weekend Farmer's Market in Ester Short Park where over 250 local producers will temp your taste buds.--->

Bainbridge Island

If the weather is less than perfect you can spend your time enjoying the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum and the Kids Discovery Museum .

North Cascades National Park

To give your legs a rest from hiking, you could jump aboard the Lady of the Lake Ferry for a cruise to the historic town of Stehekin, which lies in the center of the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. In winter the entire North Cascades National Park is transformed into a snow-covered paradise where you can try your hand at downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling.

Point Roberts

You can go hiking along numerous trails in Monument Park and Lily Point Park. Point Roberts is an important nesting area for American Bald Eagles , and there are several easily observable nests dotted around Lily Point, which is a prime place to spend a few hours doing some bird watching. More weekend getaways from Seattle

Sequim is one of the Olympic Peninsula's most beautiful small towns, known for its unique dry and sunny climate, which is similar to the climate of Los Angeles, despite its proximity to nearby temperate rainforest areas. The gorgeous Clallam County town is surrounded by beautiful Douglas fir, western red cedar, and Garry oak forest areas and is known worldwide for its commercial production of lavender, which is only rivaled internationally by several areas in France. The town's proximity to the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge makes it an outdoor lover's paradise, while its vibrant downtown arts and culinary scene make it a perfect cultural getaway in the Pacific Northwest. Annual special events include the Sequim Lavender Weekend, held each year during July.

Poulsbo is a charming small town in Kitsap County, known as the Pacific Northwest's "Little Norway" for its Scandinavian heritage, which dates back to its founding by Fordefjord resident Jorgen Eliason. Poulsbo is home to a population of 10,000 residents and is located on 4.5 square miles along beautiful Liberty Bay, with the snow-capped Olympic Mountains in view in the distance behind the city's skyline. The thriving community has become a tourist destination in the 20th and 21st centuries for attractions such as the Sea Discovery Center, which offers an aquarium full of marine life from the nearby Puget Sound. The city retains much of its historic Norwegian character, with traditional Poulso Bread sold at the renowned Sluy's Bakery. Several award-winning breweries are offered in town, along with the Poulsbo Historical Society Museum, which highlights the region's social and cultural history.

Olympic National Park

Winter transforms Olympic National Park into a snowy wonderland and skiing and snowboarding is available at Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area.

Orcas Island

To burn off some calories you can try kayaking with Discovery Sea Kayaks and Evergreen Escapes, which are two of several outfits offering guided kayaking tours. A whale watching excursion is a must-do activity on Orcas Island, and will get you up close to some magnificent whales, as well as seals, porpoises and many other marine animals and birds. Children can enjoy learning about the ecosystem at Orcas W.I.L.D. (Orcas Wildlife Institute for Learning and Discovery) or just have fun at The Funhouse Commons or Canoe Island French Camp. Back on dry land you can explore the vibrant Orcas Island arts scene by visiting some of the many galleries and venues for the performing arts, such as Island Stage Left and Orcas Center.

Skagit Valley

There are some delightfully original shops and galleries you can visit in the Skagit Valley towns and the valley hosts several annual festivals including the Upper Skagit Bald Eagle Festival in January, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival in April and the Skagit Valley Highland Games in July.

Vashon Island, Washington

Mount Rainier National Park is an outstanding area of scenic beauty which offers visitors a diverse selection of outdoor attractions suitable for the entire family.Camping is popular and there are several campgrounds to choose from where you can enjoy the pleasures of sleeping under the stars. Hiking through the wilderness is by far the most popular activity in the park and you can choose from no less than 40 different hiking trails that vary in length from the 2.5 mile Pinnacle Peak Trail to the challenging 45 mile Northern Loop Trail. In addition, there are some really easy walks for families with young children, including Paradise Vista and Trail of the Shadows. Cycling is allowed on the park roads, but not along the hiking trails. You can try your hand at fishing on the lakes and rivers or go canoeing or kayaking on the placid lakes. For something really different you can do a Citizen Ranger Quest, aimed at teaching adults and families about aspects of the environment in a fun way. Serious mountaineers can enjoy the challenge of climbing Mount Rainier, which isa glacier-covered active volcano and requires a reasonable degree of expertise.

When you feel the need to escape the city and get back to nature in a magnificently scenic wilderness, Lake Wenatchee State Park welcomes you with year round outdoor activities for the whole family. Lake Wenatchee is situated on the shores of a glacier-fed lake, and offers two separate and distinct areas for recreation.

South Park is located on the lake shore and you can spend many happy hours exploring the beach or boating, swimming, wind-surfing and fresh-water fishing. There are several miles of hiking trails and you can camp under the stars and wake up each morning to the sounds of the gently lapping water and dozens of birds. There are sheltered fire-pits where you can build camp fires and enjoy toasting marshmallows after your evening barbecue.

North Park is a short distance from the lake, less developed and quite thickly forested. Here there are serviced RV sites for larger vehicles and you can go on guided horse rides through the forest to see a variety of birds and animals, including bears. In winter, the entire park is transformed into a snowy wonderland and you can look forward to enjoying cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and sledding, in between building the ultimate snowman and having some snow-ball fun.

Birch Bay Birch Bay is situated on a beautiful and peaceful crescent-shaped bay close to the Canadian border, offering the perfect escape from fast-paced city life. Here you can spend hours strolling along the quiet beach, sun-bathing, swimming or beach-combing at low tide. The atmosphere is conducive to relaxation, and you can choose from many enjoyable vacation activities such as cycling, hiking, picnicking and bird watching. If you enjoy water sports you can kayak or windsurf in the bay.

You can go hiking though forested areas to reach the beach at Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve, or explore the forests and wetlands in the undeveloped 60 acre Birch Bay Beach Wildlife Conservancy adjacent to Birch Bay State Park; both areas are great for bird watching. If you are visiting with children you can plan a fun family camping experience at Birch Bay State Park where everyone will enjoy scavenging for seafood or hiking the Terrell Marsh Interpretive Trail.

For more enjoyable family activities you can visit the Birch Bay Waterslides where there are rides for all ages or Miniature World Family Fun Center which offers Go Karts (& Kidz Karts), mini-golf and miniature train rides. Birch Bay also hosts a variety of festivals throughout July, including the annual Art-2-Jazz Street Fair, the Birch Bay Sandcastle Competition and the Birch Bay Music Festival.

• 1. Kitsap Peninsula
• 2. Spokane, WA
• 3. Port Angeles
• 4. Port Townsend
• 5. Walla Walla
• 6. Kirkland
• 7. Friday Harbor, San Juan Island
• 8. Leavenworth
• 9. Yakima Valley
• 10. Seattle
• 11. Ellensburg, Washington
• 12. Gig Harbor
• 13. Bellingham
• 14. Bellevue
• 16. Vancouver
• 17. Bainbridge Island
• 18. North Cascades National Park
• 19. Point Roberts
• 21. Poulsbo
• 22. Olympic National Park
• 23. Orcas Island
• 24. Skagit Valley
• 25. Vashon Island, Washington

From famous sights in Seattle to undiscovered islands , bays and parks, Washington State is home to many beautiful places to visit. Plan a weekend trip to Spokane , Vancouver , Leavenworth , Ellensburg , Walla Walla and other unique towns surrounded by vineyards and stunning scenery. Here are the best places to visit in Washington State .

More Features

Beach Destinations: 15 Most Awesome Beach Picnics

When to Visit Seattle, Washington - Weather & Other Travel Tips

17 Best Seattle Breakfast Restaurants

• --> Conclusion

• About Us/Contact Us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

Get My PNW Presets!

This preset collection can enhance your photos and will help you define your style and save you time.

35 Best Things To Do In Washington State

Washington State is filled with so many activities that it can be overwhelming. When I first moved here, I had no idea where to start! There is so much to see and do, and it is difficult to distinguish what is worth your time. But now that I have lived here for three years, I have a list of my favorite things to do in Washington State. This list includes hikes, restaurants, national parks, islands, fun, cool towns, and more! Keep reading on if you want to learn what locals do in this one-of-a-kind state.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission (for which I am very grateful for) at no extra cost to you. 

Download my free Outdoor Photography Guide

Best things to do in washington state, mount rainier national park.

One of my favorite places to hike in Washington is Mt. Rainier National Park. This dreamy national park displays the famous Mt. Rainier. But there is so much more to this park! It also has brilliant forests, lakes, waterfalls, fire lookouts, and stunning rivers.

It is one of my favorite places to explore in this state. I have lived in Washington for three years, and there are still activities in this park on my bucket list. There is so much to do here! Some of the popular activities here include:

• Check Out Reflection Lakes,
• Take pictures at Narada Falls,
• Hike to Fremont Lookout,
• Hike the Skyline Trail,
• Check out The Paradise Area,
• Hike The Grove of the Patriarchs.

Read More: The 16 Absolute Best Mt Rainier Hikes

Olympic National Park

There is so much to do in this epic national park! It is one of the most diverse national parks I have ever been to. It is filled with lakes, beaches, rainforests, mountains, and waterfalls. There are not many national parks globally that have as much diversity as Olympic National Park.

The only problem with the Olympics is how far away everything is from one another. It can take hours to get from the beach up to the mountains. That is why it is best to have a good plan when visiting. Some of my favorite activities include:

• Visit the Hoh Rainforest,
• See all the beautiful beaches like Ruby, Rialto, and Second Beach,
• Check out Hurricane Ridge,
• Hike Mount Storm King,
• Eat out at Port Angeles
• Hike Sol Duc Falls.

Read More: The Perfect 2-3 Day Olympic National Park Itinerary

North Cascades National Park

The last national park in Washington is North Cascades National Park. Most people that visit Washington do not go to North Cascades National Park, and it is a shame. I feel like it is the best of the three national parks. The views are breathtaking, but the trails are challenging.

This is why it is not as popular as the other parks. Visiting here can be difficult for people that are not hikers. There are only a few trails that are considered easy. Even if you are not a hiker, I think you should visit this fantastic place. Diablo Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the USA, and I will talk more about it below. Some of my favorite activities in the park include:

• Diablo Lake Viewpoint,
• Blue Lake hike,
• Check out the larches during Fall at Maple Pass Loop,
• Hike Cascade Pass.

Read More: The 7 Best Hikes In North Cascades National Park From A Local

Mount  St.   Helens National Volcanic Monument

Mount St. Helens erupted on May 18, 1980, and it still stands here to this day. It is one of the most iconic mountains in the PNW.  You can hike up to the peak with a permit , or  hike around the area  and get fantastic views.

The best time to visit is in the Spring before the snow melts on the top. Personally, I like how the mountain looks with the snow so I prefer not to go in the summer.

Mount Baker

One of my favorite areas in Washington State is the Mt. Baker area! In my opinion, this is the most beautiful place in the whole state. The best part is that it does not get as many crowds like the other parts of Washington because only locals know about it. Some of my favorite things to do include:

• Snowshoe Artist Point,
• Hike Chain Lakes Loop,
• Check out the Fall Foliage at Yellow Aster Butte,
• Take pictures at Picture Lake.

Read More: The 5 Best Mt. Baker Hikes In Washington State

Colchuck Lake

• Distance:  8.7 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain:  2,342 ft.
• Route Type:  Out and Back
• Difficulty:  Hard
• Trail Guide:   Link

Colchuck Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes I have ever seen in my life. Most of Washington will agree on this as it is an extremely popular hike. Parking can be a huge pain, so I suggest you get there early! This is also an arduous rocky hike, so make sure you bring good hiking boots.

It is also located right around the town of Leavenworth (listed below), and the town is a great place to stop after your long hike.

All the best views in the state

100+ wa hikes.

Embark on Washington’s best trails with our eBook! Inside, find top hikes, expert tips, and stunning views, making every adventure unforgettable. Dive into the beauty of Washington’s outdoors now!

Leavenworth

When people come to visit me, I love taking them to Leavenworth! This cute little fun German-looking town is an excellent touristy spot. It is nestled in the middle of some glorious mountains, and the whole town looks like it came right out of Switzerland or Germany. I love the food, wine, and atmosphere! Some of the best things to do here include:

• Eat at the  Rhein Haus ,
• Check out the Danish Bakery,
• Drink some wine at the  WineGirl Wines ,
• Take a stroll around Lake Wenatchee,
• Hike to Colchuck Lake (listed above).

Palouse Falls State Park

Palouse Falls is one of the least known things on this list, and it is highly underrated, but probably because it is a bit out of the way and not around any other Washington tourist attractions. The state park’s most popular attraction is, of course, the waterfall. You can view the stunning waterfall and all of its glory right where you park, and you do not need to hike to see it.

I will warn you that there have been deaths in the area. You can hike down to experience the waterfall below, but take extra precautions if you do this. I decided not to hike down because it felt very unsafe, steep, and sketch. I felt like the top view was good enough for me.

Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan is one of the best places to visit in the Summer. Many people flock to this gorgeous lake in July and August to take advantage of the sun and chilly lake. This is a perfect couples destination where you can rent a boat and just relax. Some of the best things include:

• Go wine tasting,
• Hike around the lake,
• Rent a boat (the most popular thing to do),

San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands are comprised of 172 islands, and there are three ferries served Islands, San Juan Island, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island. San Juan Island is the most popular and most accessible island to visit, and you only need a weekend to experience most of the activities. Here are some of my favorite things to do:

• Alpaca Ranch,
• Lavandar Farm,
• San Juan Vineyards,
• Roche Harbor,
• Eat and drink at Friday Harbor,
• Whale Watching Tours .

I highly recommend the Whale Watching tour. I am not one of those people who like doing tours, but I enjoyed seeing the Orca Whales from afar. I also learned so much about these amazing creatures during the tour.

Eastern Washington

• Distance:  4.6 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain:  288 ft.
• Difficulty:  Easy

When most people think of Washington State, most people think of rainforests and lush trees, but did you know that Eastern Washington resembles places like New Mexico and Utah? Yes, it is a desert! I like to hang around here during the early Spring when the snow has not melted in the popular areas. One of my favorite hikes is the Ancient Lakes. The trail is relatively flat, and you can hike as little or as much as you want.

Download my Washington Hiking Checklist!

Columbia river gorge.

I am obsessed with visiting the Columbia River Gorge. It is a little far from where I live, so I rent an Airbnb every year. The best time to explore this area is in the Spring when the flowers are coming out, and the waterfalls are raging. I especially love visiting here during the Spring because most other popular areas like Mount Rainier and North Cascades are under snow. Here are some of my favorite activities:

• Hike Fall Creek Falls
• Check Out Panter Creek Falls
• Hike Sleeping Beauty For Sunset
• Check out the Spring Flowers on Dog Mountain

Read More: The Ultimate Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Road Trip

I lived in Seattle for years, and it is still one of my favorite cities in the United States! The food is so good, and I love walking around and exploring the historical buildings. The mountains in the distance with the Puget Sound next to it makes Seattle one of the most breathtaking cities I have seen. Some of the most popular things to do are:

• Pike Place Market,
• The Space Needle,
• The Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum,
• Olympic Sculpture Park,
• Discovery Park,
• Golden Gardens Beach,
• The Seattle Troll,
• Gas Works Park,
• or the Seattle Great Wheel.

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

It is so fun to experience the  Skagit Valley Tulip Festival  every year. The festival runs from April 1st through April 30th and is located on beautiful farms with thousands of tulips, and there are so many different colors! It is run by two different farms called RoozenGaarde and Tulip Town.

Check Out A Fire Lookout

Did you know that Washington State has around 93 fire lookouts still around? Washington State is the best state to explore fire lookouts, and the best part is you can even sleep in them! Some require reservations and some are first come first serve. You don’t need to spend the night to enjoy them, and you can hike to as many as you would like. I list some of my favorite ones below.

Read More: The 12 Best Washington Fire Lookouts

Go Skiing or Snowboarding

What I love about living in Washington is having the opportunity to go skiing with my family and friends whenever I want! I did not get to do this when I lived in Texas. I am not big on skiing, but I still like to experience it at least 2-3 times a year. Some of the best resorts in Washington include:

• Summit at Snoqualmie
• Stevens Pass
• Crystal Mountain
• And Mount Baker

Go Snowshoeing

The winter months can be long and dreary, but I like to make the most of them! I have noticed that my mood drastically changes when I go snowshoeing in the crappy winter months, so I have snowshoed all around Washington. Before you set out snowshoeing, I recommend researching because it can be dangerous due to avalanche danger.

Read More: 22 Best Winter Hikes In Washington State

Pick Berries

I am obsessed with berries, so when I moved to Washington, I was happy to find out that I could go to local farms and pick my own berries. It is even cheaper than buying them at the store! One of my favorite farms to go to is the  Cascadia Farm  which is on the way to North Cascades National Park.

Bellingham is located near the Canadian border and is a great place to hang out for a day or two. The best things include Whatcom Falls Park, Fairhaven Historic District, Boulevard Park, Galbraith Mountain Bike Park, and Larrabee State Park.

Washington Pass Overlook

If you are exploring North Cascades National Park, you need to check out this overlook! It is so easy to see, and the views are incredible. Also, not many people know about it :-).

Pacific Crest Trail

Did you know that you can hike some of the sections of the Pacific Crest Trail? I have even seen many backpackers trekking the PCT. You don’t even have to hike an infinite amount of miles to say you were on a PCT trail. Some are pretty easy to get to. Some of my favorite trails include Kendall Katwalk, Lake Valhalla, and Naches Loop Trail.  You can read more on hiking the sections here .

Visit A Winery At Woodinville

Woodinville is the hangout spot on a beautiful sunny weekend day. There are so many wineries and fabulous restaurants. Here are some of my favorite places:

• Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery,
• Columbia Winery,
• JM Cellars,
• Castillo de Feliciana Vineyard & Winery Woodinville Tasting Room.

Bainbridge Island

One of the best places to go in Washington State is Bainbridge Island. Bainbridge Island has a cute small town to visit on a beautiful summer day. The town is lovely and quaint and has so many restaurants and wineries. Bainbridge Island is located on the other side of the Puget Sound, so you must take a ferry to get there from Seattle. I have been a few times during the weekend to explore, and some of my fav activities are:

• Hike Grand Park,
• Drink Wine at Bainbridge Vineyards,
• Eat icecream at Mora Iced Creamery,
• Drink beer at Bainbridge Brewing Alehouse.

Cascade Pass And Sahale Arm

• Distance:  12.1 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain:  5,029 ft.

The most challenging hike on this list is the Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm trail located in North Cascades National Park. This is a brutal hike! But the trail is so worth it and it has some of the best views in the entire state of Washington. This is on everyone’s bucket list for backpacking (including mine). It is a thigh burner, though and the switchbacks seem to go on forever, but this is high up there when it comes to Washington hiking.

Cape Disappointment State Park

Cape Disappointment is located on the Southwest side of Washington State, and it is anything but a disappointment. It has hiking trails, lighthouses, and beaches. It is a fun place to explore in the Spring and Summer. Winter is also a great time to visit because of the large waves crashing onto the shore. Some of the best things to do include:

• See The North Head Lighthouse,
• Walk out to Cape Disappointment Lighthouse,
• Explore the Dead Man’s Cove,
• Spend a beach day at Waikiki Beach,
• Walk out to Beards Hollow.

Read More: The 11 Best Washington Beaches In The State!

Go Backpacking

Washington State has some of the best backpacking trails in the USA. You can backpack at the national parks or national forests. The national parks require permits while the national forests do not. Some of my favorite backpacking spots include Snow Lake, Skyline Divide, Chain Lakes Loop, Second Beach, and Goat Lake.

Mountain Loop Highway

Mountain Loop Highway was one of the first places I hiked. I hiked three trails here within a few months of moving to Washington. I feel like these trails are most Washingtonians’ go-to hikes. There are many amazing trails with lakes, fire lookouts, and glorious mountains. And they are located relatively close to Seattle. Some of my favorite trails include:

• Heather Lake,
• Mount Pilchuck,
• Gothic Basin
• And Goat Lake.

Chase The Larches

Early October is known to be the time of the Larch March. Many Washingtonians seek the bright yellow larches that resemble pine trees. If you look at my photo above, you can see what these trees look like, and yes, they really are that yellow!

They are only shown on specific trails, though, so they can be hard to find if you don’t know where to look. Also, the trails can be challenging, but trust me, experiencing these trees are worth it! Below are some of my favorite hikes that have larches.

Read More: 10 Best Fall Hikes In Washington State

Stay In A Cute Cabin

You probably already know that Washington has a ton of cozy cabins. Many of the cabins, are A-Frames, have hot tubs, and saunas. I am obsessed with visiting them in the winter season. It is one of those fun experiences I love to do with friends and my family.

Read More: 25 Cozy Cabins In Washington State

Camp At A Beach

Did you know you could camp on a beach in Washington? Yup, you can, and I love it! It is such a fun and wonderful experience, and I highly recommend it. I have camped at  Rialto Beach  and Second Beach, and both are pretty easy trails and easy to plan. This is a great experience for beginner backpackers.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide To Second Beach Camping

Check Out Diablo Lake

Diablo Lake Viewpoint is one of my favorite lookouts in Washington State. The water of the lake is a bright green turquoise color. It is hard to believe a lake can be this colorful! Many people love to kayak and paddleboard here, and some even camp on the small islands in the Summer.

Check Out Snoqualmie Falls

I take everyone that visits me to see this wonderful waterfall. It is so beautiful, and the best part is that you do not need to hike to see it. There is a lodge right next to the waterfall where  you can eat brunch , and the food is so good! There is also a trail that can take you to the lower level of the waterfall, and it is a pretty easy hike.

Rattlesnake Ledge

• Distance:  5.3 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain:  1,459 ft.
• Difficulty:  Moderate

I didn’t want to list out every Washington State hike because I have a blog post dedicated to that (seen below), but I still wanted to list out Rattlesnake Lake. It is the most popular hike in Washington State. Everyone, and I mean everyone that lives here, has hiked Rattlesnake Lake. You don’t become a Washingtonian until you have hiked this trail.

Read More: The 53 Best Hikes In Washington State

Go Kayaking Or Paddleboarding

I love Kayaking in Washington! It is a fun relaxing time, and there are so many places to do it at. Lake Union in Seattle is pretty popular, Diablo Lake in North Cascades, and Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park. Lake Sammamish is another popular spot on hot summer days.

Go Mushroom Hunting

Washington State is known to have some of the best mushrooms in the United States. The moody, lush forests are home to many wild mushrooms species, so people take advantage and hunt them for dinner.  You can read all about the rules here . Be careful when picking mushrooms, as some species should not be consumed.

Final Thoughts On Things To Do In The State Of Washington

Thanks for reading all about the best places to visit in Washington State. Make sure to check out some of my other posts on Washington:

• The Ultimate Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary
• 17 Breathtaking Easy Hikes In Washington State
• The Most Incredible Washington Road Trip Itinerary: 7-14 days
• 25 Best Waterfalls In Washington State
• The 16 Best Spring Hikes In Washington State

Claim your FREE Hiking Checklist

Ready to start hiking? Grab my free hiking checklist and never forget anything at home!

Pin For Later: Places To Visit In Washington State

Similar Posts

8 Spectacular Things To Do In Tulum Mexico

Where to Stay in Shenandoah National Park – 17 Amazing Hotels & Lodging

20 Best Hikes in Glacier National Park: Trails You’ll Love

The Ultimate Guide To The Delicate Arch Hike

The 16 Best Things To Do In Capitol Reef National Park

One Day in Canyonlands National Park | Amazing Itinerary for 1 Day Visits

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Washington State

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on February 5, 2024

Washington is best known for its biggest city of Seattle , but the Evergreen State is also home to a staggering number of scenic destinations. Whether you want to hike right up to waterfalls, admire snow-capped mountains from a distance or spend the day on islands off the coast, Washington has it all.

It is easy to pack your vacation with city life, world-class attractions, national parks and more while in the Pacific Northwest. Use this list of the best places to visit in Washington State as you plan your next trip itinerary.

10. Lake Chelan [SEE MAP]

At the base of Washington’s North Cascades Mountain Range is Lake Chelan, a hub for scenery, outdoor recreation and wine tasting in the Pacific Northwest. Visiting vineyards is a major draw to the region, and you can spend a day sipping and sightseeing at places like Vin du Lac Winery, Karma Vineyards or Mellisoni Vineyards.

For a closer look at the incredible natural terrain, ride on a seaplane that takes off and lands in the lake itself, or try water-skiing during the summer months. Hiking possibilities are abundant, and on Historic Main Street you can dine on farm-to-table cuisine from a range of independent eateries.

9. Columbia River Gorge [SEE MAP]

South of the Rattlesnake Hills, and right in the heart of the Columbia River Plateau, is the Columbia River Gorge. The gorge cuts through the Cascade Mountains forming the boundary between Washington and Oregon , and you can get spectacular views of the gorge from above. The Multnomah Falls cascade right into the gorge at one point, only adding to the beauty of this particular destination.

One of the best ways to see the Columbia River Gorge from the Washington side is to drive along State Route 14, stopping off at the many scenic vantage points for photos.

8. Spokane [SEE MAP]

After Seattle, Spokane is the largest city in Washington, and it is located in the eastern portion of the state close to the border with Idaho. In Spokane, you can visit the Riverfront Park, which was home to the 1974 World’s Fair, and stroll along the banks of the scenic Spokane River.

Some of the city’s top attractions include the John A. Finch Arboretum, the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture and Spokane Falls. You may also want to check out some of the city’s popular golf courses or take a tasting tour through some of the many breweries that have popped up in Spokane in recent years.

7. Snoqualmie Falls [SEE MAP]

Halfway between the towns of Snoqualmie and Fall City is Snoqualmie Falls, one of Washington’s most popular attractions. The rushing waters of the falls make it a stunning and unforgettable place to visit and a top spot for photographers in the Pacific Northwest. You might already recognize the falls for its appearance in the popular cult television show “Twin Peaks”.

There are short hiking trails around Snoqualmie Falls where visitors can admire enormous trees and lush green plant life within the spray of the waterfalls. There is also a large visitor center and gift shop where you can snag some snacks or souvenirs to help remember the trip.

6. North Cascades National Park [SEE MAP]

More than half of all the glaciers found in the Continental United States are located within the North Cascades National Park in Washington. The park is also home to a staggering amount of wildlife, including animals like grizzly bears, gray wolves and lynx.

Hike or drive to Mount Baker, a volcano located within the North Cascades, to get an unparalleled view of the nearby Mt. Shuksan, which is perhaps the most photographed peak in all of North America. Within the national park, you’ll find opportunities for alpine climbing and back country camping, but you can also set off on shorter day hikes and mountain biking trails during the summer.

5. San Juan Islands [SEE MAP]

In the north of the Puget Sound, and close to British Columbia, you’ll find the San Juan Islands. Despite proximity to Canada, they belong to the United States, and to Washington State in particular. The San Juan Islands are an inviting retreat and an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, offering an abundance of outdoor activities in a stunning landscape.

You can kayak in the water, take tours to spot Orca Whales in their natural habitats, dine on fresh seafood or hike through the San Juan Island National Historical Park. Friday Harbor and Rocher Harbor are the two hubs for dining, shopping and sightseeing, and they also offer some commercial flights, boat arrivals and museums.

4. Olympic National Park [SEE MAP]

To see a lush green rain forest and a rugged mountain range in a single destination, try the Olympic National Park . One of the highlights of a visit to the Olympic National Park is the Hoh Rain Forest, where you can see herds of elk roaming the landscape or you can set off on a challenging hike to the summit of Mt. Olympus.

For a less strenuous adventure, admire the summer wildflowers of Hurricane Ridge or walk among bluffs and sea caves in Cape Flattery. Clear blue water and stunning scenery awaits in the park’s Lake Crescent, and some of the most amazing views you can see straight from your car are found along the road known as the Coastal Strip.

3. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument [SEE MAP]

In Southwest Washington is the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, a destination that marks the site of the volcanic eruption in 1980. Accessible from Seattle on a day trip, but also the perfect place to spend a few nights, Mount St. Helens boasts a number of interesting and scenic attractions for visitors.

Don’t miss the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center at Silver Lake, where you can get a brief history of the region and the 1980 eruption, or head to the Hoffstadt Bluffs Visitor Center for tours as well as dining options with the a view of the volcano. The Johnston Ridge Observatory boasts spectacular vantage points of the north side of Mount St. Helens as well as an extensive visitor center.

2. Seattle [SEE MAP]

Occupying a narrow isthmus between the Puget Sound and Lake Washington, Seattle is a beautiful city and among the most popular places to visit in Washington. The largest city in the Pacific Northwest might be best known for Starbucks, but there is a lot more that Seattle has to offer. Downtown, stop in at Pike Market for fresh produce and fish caught that morning.

Experience the culture of the city at the Experience Music Project, an incredible museum devoted to music, movies and pop culture. Head to the Space Needle for views over the city and across the Puget Sound, or walk around Green Lake for some fresh air and a glimpse at local life in Seattle.

1. Mount Rainier National Park [SEE MAP]

Less than an hour’s drive outside of Seattle is Mount Rainier National Park, which is focused on the towering peak of Mount Rainier itself, the highest mountain in Washington. This incredible park is a popular destination to visit throughout the year, but snowy weather limits access to some areas. At the Paradise section of the park, you’ll see fields of colorful wildflowers and excellent hiking trails.

In the Sunrise section, you can drive to the highest vantage point in the park for truly spectacular views. Mountaineering and glacier climbing are two recreation options in the park, but Mount Rainier also offers easier hikes. Green Lake Trail, for instance, takes just over an hour and brings hikers through old growth forest and waterfalls.

Washington State Travel Video

Share this post:.

27 Best Things to Do in Washington State

10 Best Places to Visit in Idaho

10 Best Places to Visit in Wyoming

10 Best Cities to Visit in Washington State

12 Best National & State Parks in Washington State

25 Best Places to Visit in the USA

12 Best Beaches in Washington State

15 Most Charming Small Towns in Washington

12 Best Things to Do in Tacoma, Washington

12 Best Things to Do in Spokane, WA

Reader interactions.

July 8, 2019 at 8:46 pm

Port Gamble is an amazing place!!

September 2, 2018 at 11:25 pm

Love checking out all the options for our upcoming road trip – so much to choose from so helpful for this guidance.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Seattle's Top 25 Things to Do

We dare you to do them all.

In no way is this a comprehensive list of all the incredible experiences to be had in Seattle, but it’s a start. Let’s go!

SEATTLE CENTER

Space Needle

Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the 605-foot-tall Space Needle quickly became an icon of the city that today is recognized far and wide. On the observation level, which you can reach via a 43-second elevator ride, see the doodle-on-a-napkin concept that led to the Space Needle design. Views from the top feature Elliott Bay, the Cascade Mountains, and even Mount Rainier.

Seattle Center Monorail

Another World’s Fair relic, the Seattle Center Monorail links Seattle Center—home of the Space Needle and several other notable attractions—to downtown’s Westlake Center along an approximately one-mile route. The designated historic landmark can reach a top speed of 45 miles per hour and weaves between skyscrapers above the city streets.

Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

Music, science fiction, and pop culture all come together at the fascinating Museum of Pop Culture . The Frank Gehry-designed building looks like a smashed guitar from above, while inside, its colorful exhibits cover everything from the history of indie video games and horror films to Nirvana, the Seahawks, and more.

Sponsored Message

Looking for the best things to do in Seattle? Save 48% or more on admission to 5 top attractions with Seattle CityPASS® tickets. Learn more .

Pacific Science Center

This family-friendly museum is where science lessons come to life. At Pacific Science Center , explore galaxies near and far in the planetarium, get up close and personal with colorful creatures in the Tropical Butterfly House, maneuver a two-ton granite ball, find out what it means if you can roll your tongue, and much more.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

The Chihuly Garden and Glass museum is dedicated to the work and career of locally born, world-renowned glassblower Dale Chihuly, who was introduced to the craft while studying at the University of Washington. It is the most comprehensive collection of his art to date, with interior galleries featuring a variety of his work in the medium. The pièce de résistance is the glasshouse, with a vibrant 100-foot-long sculpture in hues of red, orange, and yellow suspended from the ceiling.

Pacific Northwest Ballet

Among the top echelon of dance companies in the world, Pacific Northwest Ballet performs a variety of classical and modern shows in Seattle Center’s beautiful McCaw Hall. Under the creative direction of renowned dancer Peter Boal, Pacific Northwest Ballet offers transformative performances that are sure to impress. Don’t miss its recently revamped version of The Nutcracker , an annual holiday tradition.

DOWNTOWN SEATTLE

Pike Place Market

From the iconic market sign and Rachel the Piggy Bank to the gum wall, the original Starbucks cafe, well over 225 local artisans selling their wares, the famous fish-tossing tradition, and music-playing street performers, there are enough sights and sounds at Pike Place Market to pack a day (or more). The market added its historic MarketFront expansion in 2017, featuring an open-air plaza and fantastic views of Elliott Bay.

Seattle Art Museum – three ways

The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is the city’s largest museum dating back to the 1930s and housing a varied collection of artwork that spans multiple eras and geographic regions. Take the time to visit the Olympic Sculpture Park , an outdoor extension of the museum that’s open to the public for free about a mile away at the waterfront. And don’t miss exploring SAM’s Asian art collection at the Seattle Asian Art Museum , located just east of downtown in Capitol Hill.

Central Public Library

You’ve never seen a library quite like this— Seattle Central Library ’s architecturally distinct structure boasts enough glass to cover more than five football stadiums. Head to the 10th floor for a light-filled reading room with peekaboo views of Elliott Bay, or take a self-guided cell phone tour by dialing 206-868-8564*.

Smith Tower

Visit the city’s first skyscraper, built in 1914, and ride the historic, manually operated elevators to the 35th-floor observatory, where 360-degree views await. Displays tell the tale of characters who made Smith Tower what it is today, while the tower’s Prohibition-themed Temperance bar serves themed cocktails.

Seattle Aquarium

Down at the Seattle Aquarium on the waterfront’s Pier 59, learn all about salmon, meet a few adorable sea otters, and greet the various sea creatures of the Pacific Ocean, from puffers to giant clams. Watch scuba divers feed the fish, gawk at sharks swimming overhead in the underwater dome, and even touch a sea anemone.

Washington State Ferries

A ride across Puget Sound aboard one of 22 Washington State Ferries vessels is a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the bow of the boat as you cruise to the nearby communities of Bainbridge Island or Bremerton. This is one of those cases where the journey is as much fun as the destination.

Seattle Great Wheel

Although it was only built in 2012, the Seattle Great Wheel has quickly become a fixture of the city’s skyline—plus it adds an entirely new sightseeing perspective, thanks to its location perched on the end of Pier 57. Enjoy three revolutions around in one of the air-conditioned gondolas to see the city, water, and mountains on the horizon.

Museum of Flight

Aviation buffs, take note: The Museum of Flight is one of the largest air and space collections in the country, with an overwhelming number of things to see—like a Boeing lunar rover and an Air Force One from the Eisenhower era—and do, including NASA space shuttle trainer tours and flight simulators.

Woodinville Wine Country

Western Washington’s wine outpost is in Woodinville, a charming town just a 30-minute drive from downtown Seattle. There are more than 100 wineries and tasting rooms pouring there (including Chateau Ste. Michelle , the state’s first winery), ensuring something for every palate.

Boeing Future of Flight

Boeing Future of Flight is one of Washington state’s premier aerospace attraction and experiences, 25 miles north of downtown Seattle. It is located in Mukilteo at Paine Field. Guests are welcome for the Gallery, Sky Deck, and Boeing Store.

T-Mobile Park and Lumen Field

Cheer on the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park , one of baseball’s prettiest ballparks (with gourmet food, to boot!), or root for the Seattle Seahawks and Sounders FC at neighboring Lumen Field , known for its boisterous atmosphere. Both stadiums offer behind-the-scenes tours during the offseason and when the teams are away.

This picturesque Queen Anne spot looks down at the Seattle skyline from the north. It’s the ideal place to get the quintessential view of the city, featuring the Space Needle, Elliott Bay, downtown skyscrapers, and (on clear days) Mount Rainier.

Pioneer Square

Seattle’s original downtown is full of beautiful old buildings in Romanesque Revival style, underground tours that take you beneath the streets to see the remains of the city’s first buildings, and an ever-growing slate of hip shops and restaurants. Take an afternoon or more to explore Pioneer Square ‘s ivy-covered buildings and pop into bars, boutiques, and hidden gems, like Waterfall Garden Park .

Chinatown-International District

The ornate Chinatown Gate welcomes you to this diverse neighborhood, where the food scene is incredible. After eating your fill of everything from pho to sushi, visit Wing Luke Museum , dedicated to the Asian Pacific American experience; practice your pinball game at the Seattle Pinball Museum ; and shop for Japanese snacks and cute gifts at the Uwajimaya supermarket.

Ballard Locks

In Lake Washington’s Ship Canal sits the century-old Ballard Locks , where you can watch the water levels rise and lower to create a “boat elevator” for boats and even kayaks passing between freshwater lakes and the salt water of Puget Sound. The on-site botanical garden and fish ladder are also worth a visit.

South Lake Union

The always bustling Lake Union, located just northeast of downtown, hosts a variety of seaplanes and boats of all kinds, including the floating home from Sleepless in Seattle . Get out on the water at The Center for Wooden Boats , which offers rentals and tours. And explore the area’s burgeoning restaurant and bar scene.

Kenmore Air

If you want to get a better look at the city, the views from Kenmore Air ’s Seattle Scenic Seaplane Tour are unbeatable. Board the floatplane at Lake Union for an exhilarating takeoff, leisure flight, and gentle landing back on the water.

Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)

Known as MOHAI , this museum on the shores of Lake Union encapsulates what Seattle is all about, with a dash of smart history, a dose of technology, and quirky artifacts around every corner (think a pink truck with toes). Permanent exhibits showcase everything from the city’s maritime history to modern tech innovations.

Starbucks Reserve Roastery

You won’t have trouble finding a Starbucks here in the company’s hometown, but you’ll want to seek out this special Starbucks experience on Capitol Hill. The Starbucks Reserve Roastery is a Willy Wonka–esque coffee wonderland, where you’ll find exclusive beverages, various brewing methods, a coffee library, and more.

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 .
• Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Book Your Trip

Partner Advertisements

USPS suggests the address below

Washington map, time to upgrade your browser.

If you're reading this, you're surfing using Internet Explorer 6, an eight-year-old browser that cannot cope with the demands of the modern, secure internet. For the best web experience, we strongly recommend upgrading to Firefox , Opera , Safari , Google Chrome , or a more recent version of Internet Explorer .

• Washington Destinations
• Visit Other States
• Visit Other Countries

Eco-friendly and visitor-friendly, Bellingham sits at the foot of Mount Baker and is the starting point for long-haul cruises to Alaska.

• Things To Do - Overview
• Tour Companies
• Tourist Attractions
• Attractions
• Scenic Drives
• Scenic Flights
• Sightseeing Tours
• Free Travel Planners
• Balloon Flights
• Bird Watching
• Horseback Riding
• Houseboating
• Offroad - ATV
• Climbing / Canyoneering
• RV Parks Camping
• Scuba - Snorkel
• Skiing - Boarding
• Snowmobiling
• White Water Rafting
• X-Country Skiing

• Lodging - Hotels, Resorts, etc.
• RV Parks - Campgrounds
• Restaurants

Use our easy Lodging Search to find exactly the type of accommodation you are looking for at the right price.

• Free Visitor Guides!
• Transportation
• State Facts
• Tourism Resources

• Washington Photo Gallery Washington Video Gallery

Below are the Free Visitor Guides for Washington Area. Click here to view all the guides avialable for Washington.

Select All General Interest Guides

Visit Anchorage Alaska

Visit anchorage.

Kitsap Peninsula Puget Sound

Kitsap peninsula.

Grays Harbor Western

Grays harbor.

Oregon's Mt Hood Territory Northern Oregon

Oregon's mt hood territory.

Olympic Peninsula Northwestern Washington

Olympic peninsula.

Bellingham Whatcom County Canadian Border

Bellingham whatcom county.

To request a free visitor guide from Washington - Places to Go , please fill out the form below and click "Submit".

Your request has been processed, thank you!

We also have visitor guides available in states highlighted in blue below. Click on any state to see what's available.

• Connecticut
• Development
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Washington D.C.
• West Virginia

Our Vacation and Travel Guide provides complete information on all the major tourist destinations in Washington, including all major cities, National Parks, State Parks, Recreation Areas, and more.

Please use the interactive map below to start exploring travel destinations in Washington. Scroll down for a list of Washington destinations, or open up a complete list of all Washington destinations in a Movable Pop-up Box .

• Coeur d'Alene
• Columbia River Gorge
• Kennewick/Pasco/Richland
• Lake Roosevelt
• Methow Valley-Winthrop
• Mount Rainier NP
• Mount St. Helens
• North Cascades NP
• San Juan Islands
• Vancouver - Canada
• Whidbey Island
• Bainbridge Isl.
• Kettle Falls
• Leavenworth
• Long Beach Peninsula
• Ocean Shores
• Port Orchard
• Port Townsend
• Walla Walla
• 49 Degrees North
• Badger Mountain Ski Area
• Crystal Mountain
• Echo Valley
• Hurricane Ridge
• Leavenworth Ski Hill
• Loup Loup Ski Bowl
• Mission Ridge Ski Area
• Mt Baker Ski Resort
• Sitzmark Lifts
• Stevens Pass
• Summit at Snoqualmie
• Mount Baker
• Alta Lake State Park
• Anderson Lake State Park
• Battle Ground Lake State Park
• Bay View State Park
• Belfair State Park
• Birch Bay State Park
• Blake Island State Park
• Bogachiel State Park
• Bridgeport State Park
• Bridle Trails State Park
• Brooks Memorial State Park
• Camano Island State Park
• Cape Disappointment State Park
• Centennial Trail State Park
• Conconully State Park
• Crawford State Park
• Curlew Lake State Park
• Damon Point State Park
• Daroga State Park
• Dash Point State Park
• Deception Pass State Park
• Dosewallips State Park
• Fay Bainbridge State Park
• Federation Forest State Park
• Fields Spring State Park
• Flaming Geyser State Park
• Fort Casey State Park
• Fort Columbia State Park
• Fort Ebey State Park
• Fort Flagler State Park
• Fort Okanogan State Park
• Fort Simcoe State Park
• Fort Ward State Park
• Fort Worden State Park
• Ginkgo Petrified Forest
• Goldendale Observatory State Park
• Grayland Beach State Park
• Griffiths Priday State Park
• Hope Island Mason State Park
• Ike Kinswa State Park
• Illahee State Park
• Iron Horse State Park
• Jarrell Cove State Park
• Joemma Beach State Park
• Joseph Whidbey State Park
• Kanaskat-Palmer State Park
• Kitsap Memorial State Park
• Kopachuck State Park
• Lake Chelan State Park
• Lake Easton State Park
• Lake Sammamish State Park
• Lake Sylvia State Park
• Lake Wenatchee State Park
• Larrabee State Park
• Lewis & Clark State Park
• Lewis & Clark Trail State Park
• Lime Kiln Point State Park
• Lincoln Rock State Park
• Manchester State Park
• Maryhill State Park
• Millersylvania State Park
• Moran State Park
• Mount Spokane State Park
• Mystery Bay State Park
• Nolte State Park
• Ocean City State Park
• Olallie State Park
• Old Fort Townsend State Park
• Olmstead Place State Park
• Osoyoos Lake State Park
• Pacific Beach State Park
• Pacific Pines State Park
• Palouse Falls State Park
• Paradise Point State Park
• Peace Arch State Park
• Pearrygin Lake State Park
• Penrose Point State Park
• Peshastin Pinnacles State Park
• Potholes State Park
• Potlatch State Park
• Rainbow Falls State Park
• Rasar State Park
• Riverside State Park
• Rockport State Park
• Sacajawea State Park
• Saint Edward State Park
• Saltwater State Park
• Scenic Beach State Park
• Schafer State Park
• Seaquest State Park
• Sequim Bay State Park
• Shine Tidelands State Park
• South Whidbey State Park
• Spencer Spit State Park
• Squilchuck State Park
• Steamboat Rock State Park
• Steptoe Battlefield State Park
• Steptoe Butte State Park
• Sun Lakes State Park
• Tolmie State Park
• Triton Cove State Park
• Twanoh State Park
• Twenty Five Mile Creek State Park
• Twin Harbors State Park
• Wallace Falls State Park
• Wenatchee Confluence State Park
• Wenberg State Park
• Westport Light State Park
• Yakima Sportsman State Park
• ... and 94 more. Click to see all
• + Free Travel Planners

Javascript is required to view this map. Please enable javascript in your browser if it is disabled, or view our full list of Washington destinations.

• Major ★
• Cities/Towns
• Ski Resorts
• Mtns, Lakes, Rivers
• National Parks
• State Parks
• Areas/Regions
• Advertising
• Privacy Policy
• Report a Problem
• Make A Suggestion

• Go Travel Sites
• Houseboating.org

Email Page Link

Switch to Mobile Browser Mode

We offer a compact version of Go-Washington for mobile users, allowing you to access just the information you need on the road. Of course, you can still use the full version of Go-Washington on your mobile device just as you can on your desktop.

Continue to Mobile Site Return to Main Site

Local Strolls: A self-guided walking tour of Georgetown, Washington, DC

Apr 27, 2024 • 4 min read

Follow this writer's favorite walking route through Georgetown, Washington, DC © DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images

Delve into Local Strolls, a series where writers reveal their favorite walks in their hometowns. Each route offers a snapshot of urban life, guiding you to lesser-known attractions and cherished local spots. Here, Alexa Moore takes us on a two-mile-long amble through the historic streets of Georgetown, Washington, DC.

Washington, DC , is not simply cherry blossoms and politics. It's a city with complex and diverse stories, expertly dissected into four quadrants: Northwest, Northeast, Southwest and Southeast, and at the center of it all lies the US Capitol . DC's oldest stories hide amongst the historic streets of Georgetown, in DC's Northwest. US presidents and Hollywood stars like Elizabeth Taylor once called this place home. It was also home to an African-American community. Resident numbers have dwindled, but remnants like the First Baptist Church of Georgetown , founded by a former enslaved man, still stand firm. 

So, let's begin our walk.

Distance: Approx 2 miles Total walk time: 45 minutes at a leisurely pace

Any good stroll in DC must start with coffee. I'm the kind of gal who needs a little motivation to get my steps in, so I stop into Baked and Wired . The pink window panes beckon me into the split bakery and coffee shop. A dirty chai with house-made horchata is what I order – it's only 9am and I can't justify my usual red velvet cupcake this early in the day.

With long and slow strides, I stroll down picturesque Canal Street briefly. It's adjacent to the currently semi-barren C&O Canal , and the loveliest little brick houses juxtapose its dry, muddy banks. I resist the temptation to search for their property value on Zillow. 

I turn right to head up M St, Georgetown's famous shopping promenade. All the buildings are different hues, yet there's a subtle uniformity. The storefront windows are like portals into wild worlds of fashion I cannot afford. I pass the oldest unchanged structure in the city, the tan-colored relic aptly named the Old Stone House , built in 1765.

Approaching the intersection of M St and Wisconsin Ave, I meet my favorite golden-domed Neoclassical building. I adore how the dome's reflective golden hue brightens up Georgetown's streets. Built in the 1920s, it now operates as a PNC bank branch. My mind can't help but wonder how it shined in its heyday, so to Google I go. Turns out, even a century ago, it was still a bank , a reassuring reminder that while things evolve in the rest of DC and the wider world, things tend to stay the same in Georgetown.

I do a quick heel stretch before turning right and starting my ascent up Wisconsin Ave. If you continue this path, you'll eventually pass green areas like Book Hill Park and the Dumbarton Oaks Museum and Garden . However, on this particularly chilly (and lazy) spring day, I ditch my usual hike and swing left onto N St, gazing at the manicured gardens of homes and the ruby-red-brick sidewalks that lay below.

I find myself at 3260 N St, uncovering a slice of presidential (and very romantic) history. President John F Kennedy rented this home while running for Senate and met Jackie Onassis, the future First Lady, at a nearby Georgetown dinner party in 1952 .

Turning down 35th St, I arrive at Georgetown University's campus. I spot the controversial Transformers -decorated house and can't help but giggle. The burly machines juxtapose the manicured brick facade, and the "Robots in Disguise" are the stars of an ongoing legal battle between the homeowner and the city on whether the statues can stay.

I'm searching for something I haven't seen before – the infamous steps used in the climactic ending of the 1973 film The Exorcist . They're steep. There's something a bit eerie about this tucked-away staircase, so I use the handrails and focus carefully as I descend.

I continue this journey down through the Francis Scott Key Memorial Park , cross the Alexandria Aqueduct Bridge , and eventually find my way back to the C&O Canal Towpath . What a difference a few blocks make, as this side boasts mossy-green grass and pools of water reflecting the fluffy clouds above.

Finally, I head towards the river and my favorite sitting spot at the Georgetown Waterfront Park . I end my nearly two-mile saunter on a bench near the twisting path of the park's Labyrinth , a bit regretful that I didn't buy that red velvet cupcake after all.

Keep planning your trip to Washington, DC:

Explore  these top neighborhoods  after your stroll through Georgetown These experiences  should be on your DC itinerary  Find the  best times to visit Getting around DC is easier than you think –  here's how  

Explore related stories

Apr 10, 2024 • 6 min read

We narrowed down the top Vegas experiences for your hit list.

Apr 2, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Feb 21, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 16, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 9 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 2 min read

Jan 9, 2023 • 9 min read

Dec 31, 2022 • 7 min read

Visitors’ Guide & Map Request

Get the Official Washington State Visitors’ Guide — our handy resource that you can order or view online.

Don’t miss out on this essential, one-stop source for Washington State travelers. With stunning photography, detailed maps, and insider information on must-see attractions, the guide highlights each of the state’s diverse travel regions. Order your free print copy today!

The Washington State Visitors’ Guide is published by State of Washington Tourism and the Washington Hospitality Association. For additional travel resources, visit our Plan Your Trip page.

Order the Washington State Visitors’ Guide

Currently, individual copies of the print Washington State Visitors’ Guide will be mailed for free via standard mail. Shipping charges apply for rush and international orders.

If you ordered a rush copy, please allow 5-7 days for your copy to be delivered. International orders take 4-6 weeks for shipping. Otherwise, please allow 3-4 weeks to receive your copy.

Businesses can request a  bulk shipment . Shipping on bulk orders must be paid for by the requestor.

Get a Printed Copy of the Guide

• US - Standard Mail (Please allow 3-4 weeks) - $ 0.00
• US - Rush (5-7 business days) - $ 11.00
• Canada / Mexico - Standard - $ 12.00
• International (excluding Canada and Mexico) - Standard - $ 16.00

Washington State Road Map

People still love their road maps! Even in these days of GPS and smart phone apps, one of the most often requested items at visitor info centers and AAA offices across the nation continues to be a good old-fashioned, fold-out highway map.

The map features the routes with a brief description of all 29 of our state’s Official Scenic Byways. It is available to order online, or it can be picked up at nearly every visitor information outlet throughout the state.

Sponsored Content

The best cocktail bars in Washington, DC

A bold collection of speakeasies, rooftop bars and hotel haunts are turning Washington, DC into a mecca for mixologists. With an inventive and unique list of libations, this city is quickly becoming a destination for cocktail connoisseurs.

Come for the Capitol, stay for the cocktails. Washington, DC invented the Gin Rickey, after all, but these days, the US capital is harnessing this heritage with a wave of innovative cocktail bars and meccas of molecular wizardry. From sleek hotel lounges, like The Pembroke, to moody, subterranean speakeasies, like Allegory, there's been lots of new openings and refreshed menus in recent years, with mixologists utilising unusual ingredients like hay-smoked bee larvae and almond blossoms. Here's our selection of the most atmospheric, creative cocktail spots to visit.  

1.   The Wells

Juniper junkies converge on Capitol Hill for this gin-centric cocktail lounge. The intimate bar is backed by a glass menagerie of gin: London dry, citrus-forward Japanese bottles, oak-aged varieties and smooth, small-batch American sips. These are the stars of seasonal cocktails like Let the Beet Drop, a concoction of yoghurt gin, red beet, honey, egg white and lemon. The design is just as spirited: The Wells is swathed in green, while carrot-coloured banquettes edge alcoves, the floor is tiled in honeycomb and a planetary-like light fixture is strung with copper. Pair drinks with elevated snacks like beluga caviar and chips or wagyu skewers with spicy habanada.

Bartender’s choice: The Martini is a staple. The addition of olive oil in the gin allows for the sweetness of olives to play with the botanicals of gin, while Cocchi Americano smooths out the edges. “It’s an olive oil cake, and it’s all grown up,” says lead bartender Alex Pisi.

2.   Allegory

Molecular magic is made at Allegory. You just have to find it first: the sleek speakeasy is hidden behind a black door in the lobby library of progressive hotel Eaton DC. This dimly-lit den spans leather banquettes, a glowing semi-circular bar and moody black pendant lights. A series of magical realist murals by Erik Thor Sandberg line the walls, fusing whimsical Alice in Wonderland themes with the story of civil rights activist Ruby Bridges. The innovative cocktail menu is inspired by the artwork, and bar bites include artisanal cheese plates and crispy pork bánh mì.

Bartender’s choices: Beat of the Drums is Allegory’s version of the classic margarita, blending agave spirits with a Mesoamerican orgeat and fermented huckleberries, then garnished with a piece of huckleberry popcorn. Other inventions, such as the viridescent Garden of Live Flowers (made with gin, rhum agricole, aloe, snap peas, cardomom and coconut black pepper) are also well worth a try.

3.   Silver Lyan

Bring your bucks to this historic former national bank. Its current guise is the grande dame Riggs Washington DC hotel, where the underground cocktail bar is built into an old vault. Silver Lyan’s decor reflects its heritage: brass detailing, stately pillars, oversized art deco lights and plush red velvet. At the helm is award-winning mixologist, Ryan Chetiyawardana (known as Mr Lyan), whose cutting-edge cocktails use unique ingredients, such as tart riberry, arrowroot tea and mulberry soda to name a few.  

Bartender’s choice: Splurge on the Silver Service Martini. Choose one of four different styles of martini, poured into an elegant John Jenkins vintage-style glass. The drink is served with Castelvetrano olives, house-pickled onions, a lemon twist and a freshly shucked oyster. “My personal favourite version is the Ford’s 50:50,” says Vlad Novikov, head of bars for Riggs.

4.   Bresca

With one beaming Michelin star, this Parisian-style bistro on 14th Street may be serious about sustenance, but it’s equally as playful. Inside are pops of perky yellow, booths of deep blue and a living wall swollen with earthy moss. Pull up a pew at the airy bar lined with wooden stools, where Bresca's cocktail menu, Myths & Legends, is a work of art — it whimsically weaves stories with colourful illustrations and innovative seasonal sips.  

Bartender’s choices: In the Circle is a twist on the traditional Manhattan, using culinary techniques to accentuate the vanilla, dark chocolate and spice notes of the D’Ussé Cognac and Michter’s Rye. It’s batched and sous vide with earthy shiitake mushrooms to complement the sweeter local squash cordial. Alternatively, pair a cavier tart with Flora & Fire, a subtle, smoky tipple made with mezcal, cachaca, Aperol, yellow chartreuse and strawberry fuse.

5.   Off The Record

Paint the town red at Off the Record. This iconic basement boozer in The Hay-Adams hotel is dripping in the dramatic: deep rouge crawls from tufted banquettes to the walls and lampshades. A wedding cake ceiling is strung with chandeliers, while caricatures of political figures adorn the walls. Situated on the edge of Lafayette square, to the north of the White House, this bar is a hallowed haunt of savvy locals. Pair its sprawling list of scotches and signature cocktails with bites like lobster rolls, burgers or yellowfin tuna tartare.

Bartender’s choice:   Served in a collins glass, the Lowrider is a refreshing grapefruit cocktail made with Ilegal Mezcal, lime, Aperol, Bittermens Hellfire Habanero Shrub, Fever Tree Pink Grapefruit and Tajín. “This cocktail is a tantalising way for lovers of the Paloma to spice up their game,” suggests bar manager Rachel Sergi.

6.   VUE Rooftop

The glistening crown atop Hotel Washington, this swish 11th-floor rooftop bar boasts fantastic panoramas of the city’s skyline, including views of the White House and stately Washington Monument. The interior is pared-back luxury: dark wood, billowy light fixtures and intimate booths. This is a space that seamlessly stretches from brunch to beats as live DJs play into the night. Soak up the Sazeracs with crispy calamari, lamb burgers or creamy burrata on rustic bread.

Bartender’s choice: Power to the Peaches blends white peach and rosemary Grey Goose Essence, which is complemented by Cointreau, chamomile, honey, lemon and a refreshing Chandon Garden Spritz. Alternatively, try one of the various seasonal cocktails like the Bi-partisan Blend, VUE's take on an espresso martini with horchata and chicory pecan bitters.  

7.   Jane Jane

Step into a Southern hospitality daydream. On 14th Street NW, retro-style Jane Jane may be small, but it has big energy. Plaid blue mosaic tiles trace the floor and bar, there are walnut-wood walls, vintage-inspired cocktail wallpaper and forest green pendant lights and booths. With only 32 seats, the intimate vibe is a cocktail party at a pal’s place which is welcoming, unpretentious and playful. Two dozen cocktails are organised by liquor, five of which are house varieties, while comfort bites are inspired by the owner’s Southern hospitality. Try the pickled okra, pimento cheese or Jane’s caviar with trout roe, creme fraiche and potato chips.

Bartender’s choice:   Should We Be Bad is the bar’s take on a classic espresso martini, replacing vodka with bourbon and adding velvet falernum for extra depth and body. Meanwhile, the jazzy Jane Jane Mule, where bourbon, fino sherry, lemon, mint, ginger beer and Angosturra are swirled on the rocks, is also well worth a try.  

8.   Hill Prince

This H Street haunt is the quintessential neighbourhood bar: convivial, affordable and pouring top-notch tipples. Set in a 100-year-old row house, Hill Prince is named after a racehorse and the classy equestrian vibe extends throughout: exposed brickwork, original pine flooring, brown leather sofas, gold-framed mirrors and a lick of hunter-green paint. There’s even a restored carriage house and a verdant courtyard to spill into on balmy nights. Head to the long main bar, dangling with moon-like pendant lights, where classic cocktails are created.  

Staff picks:   Try the savoury Mole Old Fashioned on draft, made using rye whiskey, Montenegro Amaro, Xocolatl Mole Bitters and Angostura Bitters. Alternatively, sample the house-made syrups and elixirs included in signature, summery drinks like the Vodka Mule made with peach bitters and spicy ginger beer.

9.   The Pembroke

Parisian-style The Pembroke may draw bon vivants for a bite, but its cocktails make it a libation destination. Within the Dupont Circle hotel, this restaurant is airy, leafy and chic with cream-panelled walls, coral Chanel tufted banquettes and picture windows offering views out over a summery terrace. It centres around a classic marble cocktail bar topped with gold lamps, where tinctures are shaken and stirred. Alongside an enormous wine list, cocktails have seasonal twists and locally sourced organic fare includes homemade lobster bucatini and lamb tagine with citrus couscous, to name a few.

Bartender’s choice: “The Hibiscus Margarita is a sophisticated twist on the classic margarita, featuring Casamigos Blanco, Cointreau, freshly squeezed lime juice and organic hibiscus syrup. Hibiscus syrup contributes a unique floral note, creating a well-rounded and robust flavour profile,” says bartender Tashawn Jackson.

Related Topics

You may also like.

7 of the best underground bars in the UK

Six of the best bars in Louisville

A grape escape in Edinburgh: 7 of the Scottish capital's best wine bars

7 of the best coffee shops in Seattle

Six of the best espresso bars in Rome

Arequipa might be Peru’s next great food city

Is Manchester the UK’s best beer city?

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Where to fly on a budget this summer

Airfare experts share their forecasts for summer vacation destinations that won’t break your budget.

This summer is shaping up to be another scorcher , and the demand for summer travel is piping hot, too. If early 2024 trends are any indication of what’s to come, “it’s looking to be busier than 2023,” said Katy Nastro, spokesperson for the flight booking site Going . Recent airport passenger volume numbers have regularly exceeded last year and pre-pandemic levels.

Jeff Klee, CEO of CheapAir.com , says airline capacity has rebounded from pandemic complications, but strong travel demand means summer flight prices can be high, depending on when you’re hoping to go. Flying in June, July or early August will be more expensive than later in the season, according to the company’s summer forecast .

“And it’s not just the airfare,” Klee said in an email. “Expensive hotel rates and crowds everywhere make Western Europe tricky for the summer.”

Despite the price tag, “people are going to go,” said Melanie Fish, the head of global public relations for all Expedia Brands, including Vrbo, Expedia and Hotels.com . “When we look at searches for destinations, they are definitely up year over year.”

For popular destinations like Europe , Klee and Fish say to push trips later into August, September or even October. Not only will prices soften, but you’ll alleviate some of the strain of overtourism .

“My number one tip is go ahead and take that summer vacation, but maybe hold on to take that big, big trip in September,” Fish said.

According to Expedia’s summer 2024 travel outlook , we’re currently in the sweet spot for shopping for early summer flights at the best rates, as Fish says lower fares tend to pop up 21 to 60 days out. It doesn’t hurt to start your search even earlier, setting up price alerts to flag when airfare drops. If you can swing it, look to fly on a Monday for international trips or a Tuesday for domestic trips to save up to 15 percent on fares, Fish added.

It’s not impossible to find good deals on airfare, whether you’re looking for a tropical beach trip , a mountain adventure or a vibrant city. Here are places that are trending cheaper — and the destinations you’ll want to avoid.

Go to Mexico

Sun, surf, culture, chilaquiles — Mexico is always a good idea , but particularly so this summer. With the opening of the new airport in Tulum , U.S. airlines have been adding gobs of new flights to Mexico, particularly to beach regions. “We’ve seen a healthy amount of deals down to Mexico resort areas like Cancún,” Nastro said.

Laura Lindsay, global travel trends expert at Skyscanner , says three Mexican cities — Cancún, San José del Cabo and Puerto Vallarta — are among the top 10 destinations offering travelers the best bang for their buck in 2024.

To escape the summer heat, Phyllis Stoller, president of the Women’s Travel Group , recommends high-altitude destinations like Mexico City or Ixtapan de la Sal, a town near Mexico City with thermal springs.

Avoid European port cities

If you’re considering a visit to a popular European city that’s also a cruise hub, beware. Not only will you be battling the usual summer crowds, you’ll be joined by thousands of day-trippers flooding into the ports — meaning Barcelona, Venice , Athens and Santorini.

Sandra Weinacht, who co-owns the tour company Inside Europe Travel Experiences , says you can avoid some of the madness in these hot spots by staying in neighborhoods away from the typical tourist zones. You can also visit top sites in the late afternoon or evening, after cruise travelers have returned to their ships.

Better yet, wait to visit until the shoulder season

Go to Colorado

Epic hiking, breathtaking nature and more craft beer than you could ever try in a lifetime: The Centennial State is a domestic gem. Ashlee Collins of Inspirato , a luxury travel and lifestyle subscription service, says Vail is popular among members this summer. Not only is the ski resort beautiful sans snow, it’s drivable for many, cutting a significant cost for travelers.

Airfare to Colorado is looking more reasonable than other domestic vacation hubs. Nastro recently spotted a Miami-to-Denver, round-trip fare over the July Fourth holiday for just $199. She says an average round trip from major U.S. cities is running between $173 and $250, but those prices are expected to climb upward of $350 the closer we get to summer.

Avoid places at risk for wildfires

Wildfires have become an unfortunate fixture of summers in the Northern Hemisphere. Last year’s fires in Europe — including those in Cyprus and Greece — were among the worst so far this century, the European Commission reported .

Stoller says fire risk has been a factor in her summer travel planning; she nixed a New England cruise after remembering how bad smoke was last year because of the fires in Canada . “None of us can predict everything, but that would be something I would be aware of,” she said.

Extreme heat is also an issue. Last July, Southern Europe experienced excessively high temperatures from a “heat dome.”

“There’s a concern about heat,” Stoller said. “Last summer was really painful.”

Go to the Caribbean

The Caribbean has its peak tourist season during the winter, when Americans flock to warmer waters. That means summer trips to the region tend to be quieter and cheaper.

“You can go under $300 to pretty much all of the islands: Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Aruba, Dominican Republic,” said Lindsay Schwimer, a consumer travel expert at Hopper . She’s seen similar price point flights to Colombia.

Lindsay of Skyscanner also said Puerto Rico and the Bahamas offer some of the most affordable flights from the United States this summer.

Avoid Paris

Unless you’re going for the Olympics , skip the French capital this summer.

“Paris is always a top destination in the summer, but this summer … it’s going to be on another level,” said Madison Pietrowski, head of U.S. brand at GetYourGuide .

Not only are hotel prices high, “we’re seeing that some of the top attractions like the Louvre have raised their ticket prices,” Pietrowski said.

Nastro says the crowds are going to be “bananas” during the Games, and not just in Paris. Olympic travelers are likely to add on other French destinations to their trip, like Nice — which will host soccer games — or the Côte d’Azur, which already gets popular in the summertime.

Even if you try to get ahead of the rush by visiting before the July 26 start date, you may still have some Olympics-related headaches in the French capital. As the city races to finish prep, “you might find that there’s going to be eyesores and scaffolding and loud noises early in the morning,” Nastro said.

Go to rural Europe

Interest in Western Europe has not slowed down, and Americans are expected to surge back en masse this summer. If you’d like to avoid them, put rural European destinations on your radar.

Weinacht is bullish on Spain’s Rioja region , the Basque countryside and the central Italian region of Umbria, which borders Tuscany but does not see the same levels of tourism. She’s also a fan of Carinthia, the least-populated state of Austria. “It is castle- and lake-dotted, doesn’t get too hot, and oh, the food and stories the cities and villages can tell,” Weinacht said in an email.

Weinacht says she’s been getting more requests from Americans for trips to her homeland, Germany. The country is easy to navigate with its high-speed trains, and offers a mix of small and big cities spread across powerhouse wine regions, UNESCO World Heritage sites and many food festivals . According to Skyscanner, airlines in the United States have been increasing their flights to Germany — namely, Frankfurt, an international business hub — meaning you may be able to find more deals.

Avoid Sicily and Amalfi

If your dream Italian destination has been featured on TV lately, that’s a red flag. The last season of “The White Lotus” spurred an interest in already popular Sicily ; the same is happening to the Amalfi Coast thanks to the new Netflix miniseries “Ripley.”

“They’re really going to be the most expensive and they’re going to be pretty crowded for the summer,” Schwimer said.

Where to go

Our favorite destinations: These 12 destinations are at the top of our wish list for where to go this year, without crowds. In 2023, we explored an Alaskan bear paradise, Brooklyn’s famous pizzerias and a hidden gem in Italy, among other highlights .

Travel like a local: Residents share their favorite places in our top city guides: New Orleans , Rome , Tokyo and Mexico City .

National parks: This comprehensive guide has details on all 63 U.S. national parks. For a deep dive into five of the most well-known, you can listen to the Field Trip podcast . Then explore tips from locals for visiting Yosemite , Glacier and Everglades .

Tales from the road: Dolly Parton has opened a new resort at her theme park complex in Tennessee, while “Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gaines have a new hotel in Waco . Road-trippers may be just as excited to see the cartoon beaver at Buc-ee’s , and bargain-hunters should consider a stop at the Unclaimed Baggage store in Scottsboro, Ala.

• Logout Login
• Adventure Holidays
• Weekend Getaways
• Driving Holidays
• Travel News

Top Searches

Nainital Forest Fire

Unesco World Heritage Sites

India Railway Stations

Leh Manali National Highway

India Hottest Destinations

250-year-old cherries found buried beneath George Washington’s Mount Vernon home

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , UNITED STATES / Created : Apr 28, 2024, 08:00 IST

You're Reading

Nick Beard, the project archaeologist at Mount Vernon, discovered the jars while excavating the basement over a period of time. Reports add that initially, he thought they might be ordinary bottles like wine bottles or glasses, wh … Read more

Nick Beard, the project archaeologist at Mount Vernon, discovered the jars while excavating the basement over a period of time. Reports add that initially, he thought they might be ordinary bottles like wine bottles or glasses, which are commonly found at the site. However, when he returned to the bottles several weeks later, he noticed more glasses exposed and realised they were filled with liquid. Read less

More from Travel News

8 hill stations to visit in North India to escape Delhi's heatwave!

Comments (0)

Refrain from posting comments that are obscene, defamatory or inflammatory, and do not indulge in personal attacks, name calling or inciting hatred against any community. Help us delete comments that do not follow these guidelines by marking them offensive . Let's work together to keep the conversation civil.

Comments ( ) Sort: Newest UpVoted Oldest Discussed Down Voted closecomments

SIGN IN WITH

Or post without registration.

Visual Stories

Popular Galleries

Love on a budget: 8 affordable honeymoon destinations in India TRAVEL TRENDS , INDIA

Summer escapes: Best mountain towns in the world TRAVEL TRENDS , WORLD

Best Western Ghats getaways for nature enthusiasts TRAVEL TRENDS , INDIA

Trending stories.

Hidden biosphere discovered beneath Atacama Desert, world’s driest desert!

Love on a budget: 8 affordable honeymoon destinations in India

• Saudi Arabia grants Umrah pilgrimage access to all visa holders

A quick guide to the best of Manali for a wonderful trip

Why is this destination dubbed the ‘Pittsburgh’ of India?

• 1 250-year-old cherries found buried beneath George Washington’s Mount Vernon home
• 2 Uttarakhand: Forest fire in Nainital; Naini Lake boating halted
• 3 Mount Fuji view to be blocked amid tourist overcrowding
• 4 Now all domestic flights in Lucknow will operate from Terminal 3 of Chaudhary Charan Singh airport
• 5 IRCTC introduces ‘Economy Meals’ at just INR 20 at 100 railway stations!

THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO DESTINATIONS, ITINERARIES, THINGS TO DO, RESTAURANTS, NIGHTLIFE and LOTS MORE!

FOLLOW US ON

Places to visit.

• Places to visit in Bangalore
• Places to visit in Mumbai
• Places to visit in Delhi
• Places to visit in Goa
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Jaipur
• Hotels in Shimla
• Hotels in Mumbai

Things To do

• Things to do in Goa
• Things to do in Mumbai
• Things to do in Bangalore
• Things to do in Delhi

Travel Inspiration

• Visa on arrival for Indians
• Honeymoon Places in india
• Hill Stations in India
• Weekend getaways in Mumbai
• Weather in Delhi
• Weather in Chennai
• Weather in Bangalore
• Weather in Mumbai

Best Beaches

• Goa Beaches
• Mumbai Beaches
• Pondicherry Beaches
• Kerala Beaches
• Restaurants in Bangalore
• Restaurants in Chennai
• Restaurants in Pune
• Restaurants in Jaipur
• Hill Station near Delhi
• Winter trip to Ladakh
• Places to visit in Kerala
• Winter Honeymoon Destinations
• UK visa guide for Indians
• Winter Trip to Manali
• Vaishno Devi Yatra
• Special Train Ticket Booking
• HP inter-state Bus
• Honeymoon Destinations India

Latest News

Congratulations.

You have been successfully added to the mailing list of Times of India Travel. To complete the subscription process, kindly open your inbox and click on the confirmation link which has been emailed to you.

Share with friends

Thank You for sharing! Your friend will receive the article link on email mentioned.

• (For more than one recipient, type addresses separated by commas)

Nick Beard, the project archaeologist at Mount Vernon, discovered the jars while excavating the basement over a period of time. Reports add that initially, he thought they might be ordinary bottles li...

• Nation & World

Deep beneath London, onetime bomb shelters will become a tourist attraction

LONDON — There’s a locked door on the eastbound platform of the Chancery Lane station of the London Underground. The door is unassuming, sturdy and white.

Behind it is a wide set of stairs leading to a roughly mile-long maze of tunnels built in the 1940s that were first intended to serve as a World War II shelter and later used for espionage, the storage of 400 tons of government documents and telecom services.

Welcome to the Kingsway Exchange tunnels, set roughly 100 feet below street level in the center of London, sprawling beneath the Underground’s Central Line. Soon they could enter a new chapter: Angus Murray, the owner of the complex, who bought the tunnels last summer, has applied for planning permission to local authorities together with architecture firm WilkinsonEyre to turn the tunnels into a tourist destination that could handle millions of people a year.

Murray’s London Tunnels is planning to invest a total of 220 million pounds (about $275 million) on restoring and preserving the tunnels, as well as adding technology for art installations and other attractions. Murray hopes to open the complex in 2027, and said that it would be able to host temporary art exhibitions, fashion shows and more.

At the moment, entering the tunnels requires riding a small elevator tucked behind a side door in an alleyway off a wide street in central London. (Visitors to the attraction would use a different, bigger entrance, Murray said.)

When the elevator doors open, you step into a World War II-era tunnel — one of 10 civilian shelters proposed by the British government after the beginning of the Blitz, the eight-month bombing of London by the Germans that started in September 1940. The tunnels were never used as shelters. By the time they were completed in 1942, the Blitz was over.

During the Cold War, the British government instructed its telephone department, which later became British Telecom, to set up a secret communications system in the tunnels that could survive a nuclear attack. The famous hotline between the Kremlin and the White House ran through the complex, according to the project’s website. Some of the phone exchange’s equipment in the tunnels still survives today, even though it hasn’t been used since at least the 1980s.

“The idea was that it would provide a degree of protection,” said Martin Dixon, a trustee for Subterranea Britannica, a charity that documents and tries to preserve underground spaces.

“If the Cold War had turned into something more serious, it would have allowed communications on some level to continue,” said Dixon, who joined Subterranea Britannica about 40 years ago.

The tunnels under the Chancery Lane station of the tube are more than 1 mile long and in some places have a diameter of almost 25 feet. Those dimensions make them among the largest sets of tunnels built for people in a metropolitan city, Murray said.

“They have a fascinating history,” he said.

For a group of post office and telecoms workers in the decades after World War II, the tunnel complex became a workplace, some aspects of which have survived. In one room, the stuffy smell of an old carpet is inescapable. Another still holds the remnants of a canteen. Yet another has fake windows framing images of nature as decorations. There are still offices, as well as rooms where workers could spend the night.

Some parts of the tunnels are lined with fake walls and doors with nothing behind them. The effect is not unlike watching a scene from the dystopian Apple TV+ show “Severance.”

A bar where postal workers could drink is also still there, and Murray said he hoped to revive it and make it London’s deepest underground bar.

The tunnels’ communication operation became obsolete in the 1980s, and in 2008, British Telecom put the tunnels up for sale. BT employees used to go down into the complex up until the 1990s to inspect for fire safety and other conditions. The tunnels were otherwise vacant.

Many details of the new attraction still need to be ironed out, but Murray said the cost of the experience would probably be in the same price range as that of other major tourist sites in London. (The Tower of London’s entry fee is about $40, and Westminster Abbey’s is about $36.)

Dixon said he was excited about the prospect of the Kingsway Exchange turning into an attraction — provided it is safe and the history is preserved.

“I’ve seen thousands of underground spaces, from the mundane to the spectacular,” he said.

The Kingsway Exchange is particularly interesting, he added, because of all the different functions it had. “It played its part in World War II, and was ready to play its part in the Cold War.”

Most Read Nation & World Stories

• Sports on TV & radio: Local listings for Seattle games and events
• Trump respects women, most men say in poll results
• He paid $13 for $13,000 Cartier earrings, and then the jeweler noticed
• At least three women were infected with HIV after ‘vampire facials’
• Biden embraces Trump-style taunts, calling Trump a ‘loser’ VIEW

A British tourist is in a hospital after a shark attack. Tobago closes several beaches

The Associated Press

April 26, 2024, 3:10 PM

• Share This:
• share on facebook
• share on threads
• share on linkedin
• share on email

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — A shark attacked a British tourist on Friday in the southeastern Caribbean, prompting the government of Trinidad & Tobago to close seven beaches and a marine park. The man was hospitalized in an intensive care unit following the attack, officials said.

The closure included beaches along the northwestern coast of the island of Tobago. The attack occurred at Turtle Beach along Great Courland Bay.

The government said in a statement that shark sightings were reported in the Grafton area and the Buccoo Reef Marine Park. Officials said the closures will allow the Coast Guard and Department of Fisheries to investigate the incident and “neutralize the shark threat, if possible.”

Shark attacks are rare. Last year, there were 69 unprovoked attacks and 22 provoked bites worldwide, along with 14 fatalities, according to the Florida-based International Shark Attack File.

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

Related News

Biden and Netanyahu speak as pressure grows on Israel over Rafah invasion and cease-fire talks

Armed men kidnap a senior judge in Pakistan’s restive northwest

Britain’s King Charles III will resume public duties next week after cancer treatment, palace says

Recommended.

Despite student suspensions, 200 protestors remain at day 4 of GW University's Israel-Hamas war protests

Social Security isn’t keeping up with inflation. That could weaken Biden’s support among some seniors

5 more teens arrested in theft, assault at Navy Yard CVS; police seeking additional suspects

Related categories:.