tourist towns in washington state

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

11 Best Small Towns in Washington — From the Mountains to the Coast

The Evergreen State is full of charming spots worth exploring, from Bavarian-inspired enclaves to quaint oceanfront escapes.

Most travelers planning a trip to Washington make a beeline for the state's most popular destinations, like the coffee-loving city of Seattle or the dramatic peaks of Mount Rainier. Still, it's well worth branching out to explore more of this Pacific Northwest location.

Encompassing more than 71,000 square miles of wind- and water-battered coastline, snowcapped mountains, rolling plains, and misty forests, Washington is famous for its natural scenery. Dotting the state are plenty of cute towns and villages offering everything from beautiful architecture to world-class wine. Full of history, culture, and tasty food and drink, these 11 small towns in Washington — all with a population of less than 15,000 — await discovery.

Part of Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve , Coupeville holds the distinction of being Washington's second-oldest town, settled in the 1850s. The waterfront is especially striking, with its historic red wharf and peaceful view of Penn Cove. Many buildings date from the 19th century and now house art galleries, shops, and seafood restaurants serving local Penn Cove mussels. Coupeville makes a great home base for exploring the trails and attractions of Whidbey Island , including historic landmarks like the Admiralty Head Lighthouse and state parks like Fort Ebey and Fort Casey .

Leavenworth

With its Bavarian-style architecture, mountain views, and taverns doling out steins of German beer and traditional dishes like käsespätzle, you'd be forgiven for mistaking this small town in central Washington for the type of alpine village it's modeled after. Inspired by California's Danish-themed Solvang, this year-round destination is best visited during one of its festive cultural events. That includes Oktoberfest and the winter months, when the town is decked out in Christmas lights and hosts a holiday market and seasonal carnival. Each season also brings its own set of sports to the Cascades, from skiing to whitewater rafting.

Protected from western Washington's perpetual rainfall by the towering Olympic Mountains, Sequim enjoys more sunny days and warm, dry weather than most of the Olympic Peninsula. Visitors can maximize that good weather by hiking to historic lighthouses, trying to spot seals, shorebirds, and bald eagles at Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge , and biking along the 130-mile Olympic Discovery Trail , which runs from Port Townsend to La Push on the Pacific Coast. In summer, wander through the numerous lavender fields — the area bills itself as the Lavender Capital of North America. Celebrate the fragrant blooms at the annual Sequim Lavender Festival in July. In town, you can shop for lavender-themed goods, peruse local art galleries, and eat all the Dungeness crab you can manage.

Port Townsend

The breathtaking views and opportunities to see local wildlife like orcas are reason enough to visit Port Townsend, which juts out into the whale-rich waters of the Puget Sound, with jagged mountains slicing the horizon. The destination's ornate Victorian architecture adds an element of enchantment and grandeur to the scenic backdrop. Many buildings date from the latter half of the 19th century, and the walkable downtown and uptown areas give visitors a prime view of these gems. Along with friendly locals and fun, year-round events like farmers markets and film festivals, outdoor fun abounds in the form of boating, fishing, hiking, and cycling in Fort Worden Historical State Park .

With colorful houses, Norwegian-style architecture, and coastal landscapes, this spot on Puget Sound lives up to its nickname of Little Norway. Poulsbo boasts actual Scandinavian roots too — it was settled by Norwegian immigrants. Shop for Nordic wares at Nordiska and try the famous bread and baked goods from the family-owned Sluys' Poulsbo Bakery . The walkable waterfront and up-and-coming Arts District make for great strolling.

Gig Harbor's picturesque waterfront is quintessential Washington. Stroll along the water to enjoy captivating views of evergreen forests, white boats, and the cobalt waters of Puget Sound with snowy Mount Rainier as the stunning backdrop. Visit the Harbor History Museum for local background or head to nearby Kopachuck State Park for lovely hiking trails. Less than 20 minutes by car from Tacoma, Gig Harbor is an easy afternoon or day trip.

You can't drive to Stehekin , which is home to fewer than 100 residents. The easiest way to get to this remote community in the Stehekin Valley is by ferry from Chelan or other stops along Lake Chelan, though it can also be reached by private plane or on foot. Situated at the headwaters of the 55-mile-long lake, the town serves as a gateway to the North Cascades, making it a paradise for hikers, campers, and backpackers. From lounging by the water to activities like kayaking, you can easily tap in to the laid-back, leisurely way of life here. Be sure to check out the 160-acre Buckner Homestead Historic District four miles outside town for more on how the valley was settled — and some tasty apples from its orchard.

Friday Harbor

There's plenty to love about Friday Harbor, from its idyllic waterfront to the San Juan Island Brewing Company , where you might even spot bald eagles flying overhead from the patio. Located on San Juan Island' s eastern shore, Friday Harbor serves as the commercial and cultural hub for the islands, offering gorgeous scenery, amazing wildlife, and a peaceful quality of life. Its charming downtown is full of art galleries, museums, restaurants, and tourism operators offering whale-watching and sea kayaking. A 15- to 20-minute drive gets you anywhere on the island, including the popular whale-watching spot of Lime Kiln Point State Park , the British and American army camps left from the Pig War, and San Juan Vineyard for island-made wines.

From its scenic location on the shores of Lake Chelan to its epic water sports and wineries, Chelan can easily become the apple of any visitor's eye. That can be taken quite literally because this agricultural region is famous for its delicious, colorful apple varieties. When you're not savoring this local bounty at restaurants and cider- or wine-tasting rooms, dive into the many outdoor sports available. Lake Chelan is made for boating, swimming, kayaking, and even scuba diving. For land lovers, the surrounding landscapes are dotted with hiking and cycling trails. For a true adventure, hop aboard a boat to the far end of Lake Chelan to visit the North Cascades backcountry.

The Wild West comes to Washington in the town of Winthrop , situated along the North Cascades Scenic Byway . The storefronts on the main drag are designed exactly like those of an old Western town. Slake your thirst at Three Fingered Jack's Saloon and find locally produced artisan goods at stores around town. If you want to stay on for a night or a weekend, Winthrop is a bona fide year-round destination with outdoor recreation. North Cascades National Park and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest are short drives away and offer hiking, mountain biking, and camping in the summer and cross-country skiing on the famous Methow Trails come winter.

Perched on the doorstep of the Cascades, North Bend has a frozen-in-time feel thanks to its many pre-World War II buildings. The town is best known for being the setting of David Lynch's cult-favorite crime series, Twin Peaks . Devoted fans can eat the famous pies at the retro Twede's Cafe or watch the crashing water of the 268-foot Snoqualmie Falls, featured in the show's opening credits. But there's far more to North Bend than its filming locations. Like most small towns in Washington, there's ample opportunity for outdoor adventure, including hiking around Mount Si . The area is also home to several wineries and breweries.

Related Articles

The Emerald Palate

Seattle food tours & retreats

Travel Guides , Washington · July 11, 2024

26 Best Small Towns in Washington State with Tons of Character

Every year, I aim to discover more of the best small towns in Washington state, and I’ve always had a blast doing it. Washington is massive, and between miles of vast, open landscapes lies countless picturesque towns that almost take you back in time. From towns rich with historical architecture to hidden gem mom-and-pop shops and restaurants, the small towns in Washington really have it all.

Curious to learn more? I’ll break down all the best towns to visit that have enough to do for at least a full day of exploring, but are also quaint enough to let you slow down and relax. Let’s dive in!

Best Small Towns in Washington State

Save this to Pinterest for later because I’ll add more of the best small towns in Washington state as I discover them!

Want to explore a bunch on an epic road trip? Let me plan you a custom itinerary that fits in all the best ones that match your exact preferences.

If you’re early in your travel research or want to plan a trip on your own, here’s the full list of Washington’s best small towns!

Bow & Edison

distance from Seattle: ~1 hrs ( get directions ) | combined population: ~650 | best for: art & restaurants

Bow and Edison are two of my favorite small towns in the Skagit Valley, an area already heavily populated with other adorable small towns like Burlington and Mt. Vernon. Edison is the bigger of the two and has a thriving art scene, with several galleries lining the downtown.

Bow is smaller and doesn’t really have a downtown. However, it does have some of the best restaurants in Skagit Valley , along with one-of-a-kind shops and quaint cafes. Neither town is big enough for a full day, so you can dedicate a few hours to exploring and then move on to more off-the-beaten-path activities in Skagit County .

distance from Seattle: ~1 hrs ( get directions ) | population: ~1,000 | best for: shopping

La Conner is my second favorite town in Skagit County. It’s one of the oldest towns in the valley, just south of Bow & Edison along the Swinomish Channel. Its proximity to the water makes it a popular spot for water sports, and its Victorian-esque downtown is peppered with boutiques, restaurants, and even a few wineries. I love spending the afternoon combing the streets and picking up cute souvenirs.

If you’re open to kayaking, you can rent one and explore Goat Island. It’s a small island just off the coast, home to the abandoned WWII Fort Whitman. Plus, it gives you a great vantage point of the bay.

distance from Seattle: ~1 hr 20 min ( get directions ) | population: ~18,000 | best for: shopping & outdoor adventures

Anacortes is one of the best small towns in Washington state that most locals will find themselves in at some point. That’s because it’s home to the ferry terminal between the mainland and San Juan Islands. Many people drive right through Anacortes, but it’s worth exploring all on its own.

I love strolling Commercial Avenue and popping into the cute shops and antique stores. There are also a bunch of restaurants and an excellent farmers market.

Just beyond the downtown are a ton of outdoor adventures. The most famous is probably Deception Pass State Park , but I also love catching the views at Mt. Erie . However long you stay, you’ll find a ton of things to do in Anacortes .

Eastsound & Friday Harbor

distance from Seattle: ~3 hrs 15 min ( Eastsound directions ) | ( Friday Harbor directions ) | combined population: ~9,000 | best for: island views

Eastsound and Friday Harbor are the main towns on Orcas Island and San Juan Island, respectively. To get there, you’ll have to take a ferry from Anacortes, and I suggest going to Friday Harbor first since you only have to pay a ferry fee to travel west. That means your ferry to Orcas Island and back to the mainland will be free because you’ll be traveling east.

Eastsound on Orcas Island, considered one of the best islands near Seattle , is known for its shopping scene, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. It’s also where you’ll find most of the B&Bs in case you want to turn your Orcas Island day trip into a weekend getaway.

Friday Harbor is where the ferry delivers you on San Juan Island. Once you disembark, you’ll find a walkable town with waterfront restaurants, cafes, and even a Whale Museum . There are also a few tasting rooms, which I break down in my guide on how to spend a day in San Juan Island .

distance from Seattle: ~1.5 hrs ( get directions ) | population: ~94,000 | best for: lively downtown

The drive from Seattle to Bellingham is one of my favorite scenic day trips because you get to see so much, including several small towns on this list as you make your way through Skagit Valley north to Whatcom County.

Bellingham is a college town, so there’s no shortage of cute cafes, breweries, boutiques, and vintage thrift stores. There are also a number of nearby hikes and waterfalls, like Whatcom Falls Park and Boulevard Park , both of which are minutes from downtown.

One town south is Fairhaven, another adorable small town with old brick buildings and seemingly a bookstore on every corner. Check out my guide to Bellingham for even more ways to explore the city!

Pro tip: Bellingham is the last major town before the Canada border, so it’s a great jumping off point for exploring all the things to do in Vancouver, BC !

distance from Seattle: ~25 min ( get directions ) | population: ~42,600 | best for: eating & art

Edmonds is one of the best small towns in Washington state close to Seattle. It’s right along the water with a ferry taking commuters to the peninsula. In fact, its adorable main street leads right to the water like a promenade.

I love exploring Edmonds’ restaurants because it’s a low-key foodie town. It’s also full of art, whether it be the colorful murals on the buildings or the countless art festivals throughout the year. There’s even an excellent community theater that I’m a member of.

Chelan & Manson

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs ( get directions ) | population: ~4,400 | best for: wine tasting and water sports

Chelan and Manson are two small towns surrounding Lake Chelan. It’s the deepest lake in Washington, with gorgeous blue water reflecting the surrounding mountainscape. It’s a popular destination year-round, but most visit in the summer to kayak, jet ski, or paddle board. That said, there’s still plenty to do in Lake Chelan over the winter .

Of course, the number one reason I visit Lake Chelan is for wine tasting. There are over 40 wineries, including some big names as well as some hidden gems . When you’re hungry, there’s no shortage of great restaurants in Chelan .

Winthrop & Twisp

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs ( get directions ) | combined population: ~1,600 | best for: outdoor adventures

Winthrop and Twisp are two teeny towns in the Methow Valley. I first discovered them when I heard they had some of the best cross-country skiing in Washington , but I continue to visit for their abundance of small-town charm.

Winthrop’s Old West downtown can be explored in under an hour, as it’s mostly restaurants and outdoor gear outfitters. As you drive, you’ll pass signs for Twisp and Mazama, which you could easily tack on in a day. Combined, the three towns have some of the best restaurants in the Methow Valley .

One of the draws to visiting the area is exploring nearby North Cascades National Park . It’s Washington’s only free national park and it offers incredible hiking, particularly during larch season .

Pro tip: If you visit during March, check out Winthrop’s Hot Air Balloon Festival !

Port Townsend

distance from Seattle: ~2 hrs ( get directions ) | population: ~10,400 | best for: Victorian architecture

The drive along the Olympic Peninsula is another one of favorite road trips from Seattle because the view is gorgeous, and you pass by so many small towns, like Port Ludlow, Sequim, Port Angeles, and one of the best small towns in Washington state, Port Townsend.

Port Townsend is quite literally oozing with charm. Its Victorian-era downtown has a lot to do, whether you’re in the mood for wine tasting, seeing an old film in the historic Rose Theater , or sipping on a milkshake at the soda fountain. There’s also Fort Worden State Park , which is minutes from downtown and includes over 400 acres of forest, beach, and a historic fort. Read my full guide on things to do in Port Townsend for even more reasons to visit this quaint town.

distance from Seattle: ~2 hrs ( get directions ) | population: ~2,000 | best for: hiking & wine tasting

If you’re checking out Port Townsend, you might as well take a ferry to Whidbey Island. It’ll drop you in the center of my favorite town on the island, Coupeville. From there, you could drive to Langley, which is the bigger, more touristy town on the island, but I prefer the small-town energy of Coupeville. And ok, maybe I also love that it’s where they filmed the cult-classic witch movie, Practical Magic.

Coupeville is really small, but there are a lot of great restaurants , shops, and a few Whidbey Island wineries worth checking out nearby. You’re also minutes away from several parks, including Fort Casey , which is great since hiking is one of the best things to do on Whidbey Island .

distance from Seattle: ~30 min ( get directions ) | population: ~11,000 | best for: restaurants

I go to Vashon often since it’s the easiest island to get to from Seattle. A 20-minute ferry from West Seattle is all it takes, and there’s a lot to do on the island . Since the town is small (only 13 miles long), you can venture past the downtown area and really experience the entire island in a single day.

Being so close to Seattle, Vashon has a lot of great restaurants , and most are within walking distance of downtown. There are also several wineries, breweries, and cideries open for tasting and countless hikes to stretch your legs and get a good vantage point of the Puget Sound.

distance from Seattle: ~35 min hr ( get directions ) | population: ~25,000 | best for: good food, wine tasting & shopping

Bainbridge Island is another one of my favorite day trips from Seattle , especially when the winter gloom hits. What’s even better, if you’re only looking to eat at the best restaurants and go shopping, you don’t even need to bring a car since the ferry drops you off right in town.

Of course, if you do bring a car, you can explore some of the island’s wineries , beaches, and hiking trails. Check out my guide on how to spend a day on Bainbridge that’s off the beaten path .

Vancouver, WA

distance from Seattle: ~2 hrs 45 min ( get directions ) | population: ~195,000 | best for: good food & wine tasting

I was surprised to learn how many people live in Vancouver, Washington because its downtown area is so dang small and cute. But I guess being 10 minutes across the Columbia River from Portland in a state without income tax attracts a lot of people. However, you’d never really know it by spending an afternoon combing the storefronts and gorgeous waterfront trail.

There is lots to do in Vancouver , whether you want to explore a historic fort, walk the waterfront, or go wine tasting. The downtown is densely populated with shops and restaurants, and most of it can be explored on foot. Its proximity to Portland and lack of crowds also make it a perfect jumping off point for exploring the Rose City .

Leavenworth

distance from Seattle: ~2.5 hrs ( get directions ) | population: ~2,500 | best for: Bavarian mountain town vibes

I freaking love Leavenworth, as does pretty much everyone that ever visits. It’s a small, Bavarian-themed town known for having a ton of things to do in the winter and hiking adventures during the warmer months. Yes, Leavenworth is a bit kitschy, but we all just can’t enough of its architecture and famous Christmas lights.

The town is very walkable, but you could still spend a whole day or two exploring the best restaurants and wineries . From here, you could also spend a day in Wenatchee , a larger but still underrated town with plenty to do.

distance from Seattle: ~2.5 hrs ( get directions ) | population: ~100 | best for: beach relaxation

I visit Seabrook every summer, and it’s my favorite home base for exploring the Washington coast . It’s a planned community with about 500 homes, most of which are vacation rentals. It was built to be a family-friendly walking town, so there is plenty to do in Seabrook by foot.

It’s basically one giant community, with a quaint main street lined with shops, restaurants, playgrounds, mountain bike trails, and tennis/pickleball courts. Of course, having beach access is a highlight, and while you have to walk down a number of stairs, it’s worth it for the view and lack of crowds.

distance from Seattle: ~1 hr 20 min ( get directions ) | population: ~1,000 | best for: cute downtown

If you’re ever inspired to drive to eastern Washington, you’ll likely pass a few of my favorite small towns, like Snoqualmie, North Bend, Cle Elum, and Roslyn. Roslyn is my favorite for its cute downtown, boasting interesting spots like a distillery, the Historical Museum, and the Old Westbury Gardens. It’s also right next door to my favorite resort in central Washington, the Suncadia Resort .

Walla Walla

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs ( get directions ) | population: ~33,500 | best for: wine tasting

Walla Walla is small but densely populated with wineries, second only to Woodinville . It’s one of my favorite romantic getaways in the PNW , especially if you enjoy gorgeous vineyard views, wine tasting, and good eats. Check out this list/map of Walla Walla for a breakdown of my favorites.

If you’re really into wine tasting, you might as well stop by Tri-Cities. It’s 45 minutes outside of Walla Walla, and it’s not technically a small town; rather, it’s three interlinked cities at the confluence of the Yakima, Snake, and Columbia Rivers. There are tasting rooms dotted all around here and even a food truck hub in Kennewick .

distance from Seattle: ~1 hr ( get directions ) | population: ~500 | best for: Mt. Rainier

If you’re planning a trip to Mount Rainier , you’ll need to find a good home base. Ellensburg, Ashford, and Packwood are popular towns for accessing the mountains, and while they’re also quaint, Wilkson is a hidden gem.

For starters, it’s located near the park’s north entrance, Carbon River, which is one of two entrances kept open during the winter. This means it’s the perfect jumping-off point if you’re planning a winter getaway .

The “downtown” is a whopping two blocks of Old-West-style, hundred-year-old brick buildings. While there’s not much to do, there’s a pizza joint that’s worth the drive from Seattle alone.

White Salmon

distance from Seattle: ~3.5 hrs ( get directions ) | population: ~2,600 | best for: Columbia River Gorge & hiking

White Salmon is one of the best small towns in Washington state that boasts quite a few boutique shops, wineries , and breweries. It’s also just a hop, skip, and a jump from Hood River, which has even more restaurants and tasting rooms.

Visiting White Salmon also means you’re in perfect proximity to check out the Columbia Gorge’s countless waterfalls , go on a hike, or try go skiing at Mt. Hood if it’s winter. Check out my full guide to visiting Columbia River Gorge for more ideas of how to make the most of the area.

distance from Seattle: ~1 hr 20 min ( get directions ) | population: ~12,000 | best for: shopping & eating

Located in the Kitsap Peninsula 25 minutes from Bainbridge, Poulsbo is one of the best small towns in Washington state strictly because its downtown is so stinking cute. Affectionately called “Little Norway,” it’s very walkable and lined with a variety of shops, cafes, galleries, and restaurants. It’s enough to keep you busy for a few hours or to stretch your legs on your way to the Olympic Peninsula. Check out my guide on all the best things to do in Poulsbo for specific ideas on how to pass the time.

Pro tip: If you visit in May, they host an annual Viking Fest with a parade, live music, and even a strong-man competition.

distance from Seattle: ~45 min ( get directions ) | population: ~10,150 | best for: antique shops & walking trail

Snohomish has a small but eclectic downtown, with architectural influences ranging from small old brick to English and Dutch-style buildings. The downtown is mostly lined with boutiques, antique shops, and a few mom-and-pop restaurants. Once you’ve explored the downtown, check out the Centennial Trail . It’s a 30-mile paved trail that leads straight into the heart of Skagit Valley.

distance from Seattle: ~45 min ( get directions ) | population: ~12,500 | best for: picturesque view

With the Puget Sound waterfront and Mt. Rainier visible in the distance, Gig Harbor wins for the best view of any small town in Washington. It’s only 12 miles from Tacoma , and a majority of its residents are commuters looking to embrace that small-town lifestyle.

The downtown is fairly lively, with a handful of upscale restaurants serving fresh seafood from nearby Hood Canal. There’s also Bremerton and Port Orchard nearby, but I prefer Gig Harbor for its proximity to state parks and nature areas, like Kopachuck State Park .

More places to explore

After you visit all the best small towns in Washington state, here are ideas for more adventures!

• Best Summer Vacations in Washington State
• Bucket List-Worthy Places to Visit on the West Coast
• Why a Visit to Washington’s State Capital is a Must
• Dreamy PNW Cabins Straight from a Storybook
• How to Have the Ultimate Staycation in Seattle

Join the club

You may also like.

20 Absolutely Stunning Leavenworth, WA Hikes

• Request Your Personal Data
• Terms of Services
• Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2024 The Emerald Palate · Theme by 17th Avenue

• Travel in the Pacific Northwest and beyond
• Work With Me

• Pacific Northwest
• National Parks
• Seattle Travel Guide
• Recommended Gear
• Published Work

Washington , United States

17 adorable small towns in washington state to visit.

When most people visit Washington, bigger cities like Seattle or Olympia tend to be on their list of places to stop at. While I do love those areas, there are so many small towns in Washington that don’t get enough credit. In fact, I prefer to visit these cities instead of the larger ones.

I’ve lived in Washington for several decades and am always looking for new small Washington towns to visit when I have free time. I put together this list of places I’ve been to to give you a variety of options next time you want to explore a new city and hopefully have you discover your new favorite area.

Here are the 17 best small towns in Washington State that you should know about!

Looking for the ultimate Seattle travel guide written by a local that tells you all the best places to go and what to see? My new ebook is now live, so  click here  to buy your copy!

Table of Contents

1. Anacortes

If you’re heading out to the Washington seaside, few towns compete with Anacortes , which is one of my favorite cute towns in Washington. The city is on Fidalgo Island, making it perfect for a whale-watching tour . The excitement starts when you take the ferry from the mainland – it kicks off the holiday in fine style. 

There’s also an option to check out the Cap Sante Marina, a beautiful area to walk around at sunset. The port is open to the public daily.

Beyond that, the fine restaurants and bars will occupy most of your evenings. You can attend a concert at the Seafarers Memorial Park on fine days. On other days treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment at the Majestic Inn & Spa .

Where to Stay:

• Majestic Inn & Spa is one of the most convenient places to stay, as it’s right downtown so you can easily walk to restaurants and stores from there. (rates start at $140 per night; book your room on  Booking.com  or  Hotels.com )
• Nantucket Inn  is a charming bed and breakfast close to downtown with a garden and firepit to enjoy when it’s nice out.  (rates start at $149 per night; book your room on  Booking.com  or  Hotels.com )

2. Bainbridge Island

Another ferry ride – this time from Seattle – takes you to Bainbridge Island . While it’s a rather large island, it’s all considered one city. The forests and natural beauty here are outstanding and make for a superb getaway in the scenery of Northwestern USA.  

Previously, the entire island was a state park, and the natural landscape reflects that. The island is on the Puget Sound, but that waterway is characterized by saltwater, so it will feel like an ocean getaway should you choose to spend the day on the sand. Try Lytle Beach or Fay Bainbridge Park for a beach day. 

Pritchard Park is another option, offering views of the boats and ferries drifting by. Something to note about beaches on Bainbridge Island is that camping is allowed. So if you’re someone who likes to get out into nature, Bainbridge is top of your list.  

Side note: Bainbridge has a connection to the popular TV show Grey’s Anatomy – the ferry ride in particular tugs at fans’ hearts.  

• Cheryl’s Bainbridge Chalet sleeps 6, has beautiful ocean views and is dog-friendly. (rates start at $209 per night)
• Rockaway Beach View sleeps 6 and boasts stunning bayfront views as well as the Seattle skyline. (rates start at $187 per night)

3. Coupeville

The second-oldest town in Washington state sits on Whidbey Island and is named after Thomas Coupe. Coupe was a notable ship‘s captain from Canada, who was also one of the first settlers of Whidbey Island. 

The town is known partly for its impressive collection of historical buildings and a row of BnBs hosting visitors to its wharf. Many of the buildings hail from the 19th century and are made from oak, making them incredibly appealing to those who love a rustic feel to their holidays.  

There are a variety of shops to visit as well as restaurants that showcase the local seafood. Some of my favorite places to stop are Front Street Grill, Toby’s Tavern, and Penn Cove Brewing Company.

• Less than 10 minutes away from the Clinton ferry and close to downtown Langley, Comforts of Whidbey provides free WiFi, and guests can enjoy a bar, a shared lounge and a garden.  (rates start at $236 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )
• Captain Whidbey is It’s right on the beach an has a bar and restaurant, which is open daily. (rates start at $149 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )

Dayton is notable for its train station, the oldest in Washington state, and the station opened in 1900 and is locally called the Tower Depot. There is also an old courthouse that is worth looking at – it has been operating since 1887. 

Donkeys are the local celebrities – so much so that they have their own annual festival called Mule Mania. Beyond that, the town is charmingly old-school, albeit with great options for eating, shopping, and enjoying the gorgeous Washington scenery. 

• Best Western Plus Dayton Hotel & Suites is a mountain hotel with indoor pool with free breakfast and free WiFi. (rates start at $97 per night)
• Children stay free at The Weinhard Hotel . Rooms have a flat-panel TV and air conditioning. (rates start at $183 per night)

You’ll love to visit Stehekin if you like remote, hard-to-reach areas!

5. Eastsound

Eastsound sits on Orcas Island – one of the San Juan Islands – and is, in fact, the biggest town on the island. It is well known for its visitor-friendly facilities. There are several hotels and restaurants, gift shops, music venues, and even a small airport. While it may be small, there’s no shortage of fun things to do on Orcas Island .

The village green is a popular social point, with a stage that regularly hosts live music performances. Folks can relax on the green, under trees, or picnic tables. When music isn’t on the go, a popular farmer’s market offers local produce. 

Like many of the best small towns in Washington state, Eastsound is entirely walkable. Once you arrive here, you’ll have little reason to use a car unless you’re venturing out of the town limits. Not surprisingly, should you do that, you could opt for some whale-watching or one of the better beginner Washington hikes in the hills. 

Mount Constitution is worth seeing for history buffs, the highest point in the islands. Take a view of the island from the tower – it’s well worth the excursion. It’s also a great hike on Orcas Island if you’re looking for some exercise.

• Otter’s Pond Bed and Breakfast provides homemade breakfast every morning and is 20 minutes walk from the beach. (rates start at $212 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )
• Kangaroo House Bed & Breakfast offers free WiFi and free private parking, as well as access to a hot tub and terrace. (rates start at $194 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com)

6. Ellensburg

Get away from the islands in northern Washington, and opt for the valley of central Washington instead. There you will find the beautiful town of Ellensburg, nestled in the Kittitas Valley. The Yakima River sits alongside it, and Ellensburg has oddly become a haven for waterski fans. 

The weather plays along seasonally, meaning you can also head here for fly fishing, river rafting, and even snowboarding, depending on which time of year you visit. 

In terms of other activities, the historical district is always a hotspot. In part, Pubs and restaurants are popular because of the University students from Central Washington University. They also provide a healthy stream of cultural events, making music, theater, fine art, and crafts a significant factor in the town’s attractions.

With lots of art, history, and plenty of historical buildings, Ellensburg is a great place for the entire crew and one of the best towns in Washington state. Head out on a scenic drive for a glimpse of the canyons. Or take the kids on one of the many hiking trails to connect with nature. 

• The Gorgeous George is a cozy 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom apartment that sleeps 2. It has a full kitchen, WiFi and your own washer and dryer. (rates start at $115 per night)
• The Windy Willows guesthouse sleeps 2 and is clean, bright, safe and comfortable. (rates start at $88 per night)

7. Friday Harbor

Another favorite in the San Juan Islands , the watersports and rustic feel of the town, makes Friday Harbor popular with visitors to Washington. It’s a seaside town, so expect access to riverside beaches and harbor views.

You could also go hiking, as Mount Young is a beautiful opportunity to get out into the great outdoors. Lime Kiln Point State Park is also a park hikers’ dream and is ideal for a daytime excursion. 

Friday Harbor has around 2000 residents, so it’s a small town, not counting its many visitors year-round. The community here is tight-knit. Many of the stores and establishments are family-owned, so if you stay for a while, you’ll get to know the owners. 

• Tahlequah’s Place is a newly updated, clean and comfortable, studio condo with a full kitchen and bathroom. (rates start at $179 per night)
• The Hyak room in Cannery Inn is a newly built, cozy and modern unit that sleeps 2. It offers a water-view as well as a common deck area. (rates start at $229 per night)

8. Gig Harbor

The mountains surrounding Gig Harbor are worth the effort of getting there alone, making it one of the best small towns in Washington to live and visit. It’s also one of the best places to visit in the spring in Washington .

Harbor History Museum, Kimball Coffee House, and Pelican Bay Books are popular visiting points for those new to the town. The boutique stores and the waterfront make it one of the region’s top tourist attractions and one of the best cities to visit in Washington state. The area is also popular for weekend trips from Portland, Oregon .

The name has maritime origins, as Captain Charles Wilkes brought a gig (a small boat) into the harbor to shelter from a storm in 1840. He later named the sheltered area Gig Harbor. You’ll love stopping here on a Seattle to Portland drive .

• Wesley Inn & Suites is pet-friendly, has a king-sized bed, a fireplace, and a jacuzzi tub. (rates start at $132 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )
• This Stylish Beachfront Home sleeps up to six people and has a large deck and hot tub. The spacious kitchen is well equipped with modern appliances and a gas stovetop. (rates start at $152 per night)

9. La Conner

Flower lovers love to visit La Conner at least once a year, as it’s near the site for the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival and all that goes with it. The town also hosts the La Conner Daffodil Festival each year. It’s unclear why this town is so obsessed with these flowers, but it’s a major tourist event every year.

Like most Washington towns, the inns and taverns of the town are charmingly quaint. When not here to see flowers, visitors enjoy the Arts Alive festival every November or the local sites like the Rainbow Bridge.

The town was originally a fishing village but has evolved into an arts haven. It’s a top-rated weekend getaway, has plenty of things to do in La Conner , and is great if you’re looking for romantic things to do in Washington State. 

La Conner makes no secret of its numerous awards, listing titles like “Best Tiny Town in Washington,” “Best Small Town in Washington,” and “Best Romantic Getaway” by Evening Magazine.

• The 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo includes a fully equipped kitchen, inviting decor, plenty of natural light, and fabulous views of the nearby farm and mountains. (rates start at $152 per night)
• This is a two-bedroom 1-bath luxury apartment sleeps 4, includes new furnishing inside and a luxury sectional sofa in the living room. (rates start at $235 per night)

10. Langley

Known as the Village By The Sea, this town is famous for many festivals, historic New England architecture, and art. This city stands out from others in Washington for multiple reasons. For example, whale watching is common around Whidbey Island , but Langley’s Welcome to the Whales Festival sets it apart.

This is Whidbey Island, so once again, a ferry is in your plans and kicks off what should be a wonderful stay on a picturesque island full of activity and scenic thrills. It’s a small town (less than a mile square), but it packs a punch as a weekend getaway destination. 

Langley is interesting because it feels a lot like an east coast historical town. Something about the architecture says “Salem” and “Massachusetts” rather than “western frontier.” It nonetheless has a more-than-adequate share of unique coffee shops, restaurants, and local stores to keep your wallet occupied. 

Folks interested in whales can also stop in at the Langley Whale Center, which displays a relatively impressive collection of whale bones, skulls, and other artifacts. 

• This modern condo in downtown Langley sleeps 4, features a fireplace, two smart TV’s and WiFi. (rates start at $215 per night)
• The Den is a fully equipped self-contained first-floor studio apartment in a two-story building, it sleeps 6 and has a lovely outdoor mini patio. (rates start at $125 per night)

11. Leavenworth

Leavenworth is a tourist town by design and one of the best small towns in Washington to visit. The city had its origins as a logging town around the turn of the 20th century but decided to undergo a facelift in the 1960s. The idea was to model itself on a traditional Bavarian village to capitalize on its winter tourism persona.

Earlier, the town had become semi-famous for opening a ski jump. A Bavarian theme adds a unique feel to the city as a holiday destination, and Leavenworth in the winter is a fun time to visit.

The restaurants serve bratwurst and schnitzel and sauerkraut. The beer is divine and free-flowing in the beer halls, and the snow falls over the hills and trees in the winter like in the Alps. It’s romantic, it’s adventurous, and it’s classic!

• Icicle Village Resort has a pool, restaurant, mini-golf, and massage on-site. (rates start at $159 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )
• Bavarian Lodge is central to downtown Leavenworth, has a year-round outdoor pool and includes a free hot breakfast. (rates start at $161 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com)

12. Port Angeles

Olympic National Park is one of many national parks in Washington , and at its edge lies Port Angeles . It was initially named Puerto de Nuestra Señora de Los Ángeles by a Spanish explorer but took its shortened form from the English settlers that eventually settled here. 

As a tourist spot, there are plenty of choices for activities here – bike, hike or rent a canoe and drift along the waterways. If you visit around Labor Day, stick around for the hugely popular Salmon Derby – an annual competition pitting the region’s best fishermen in competition.

It’s easy to make a day trip to Lake Crescent from Port Angeles, as the lake is a short 20 miles west of the town. The waters here are particularly blue, and the glacier-formed lake sparkles and inspires in the beautiful sunlight.

Aside from the standard whale watching tours , Ediz Hook, Madison Creek Falls, and Lake Crescent are among the most popular day trip spots. Those more in touch with nature can experience the rainforest in the state park or enjoy the spectacular view from Hurricane Ridge.

This town is one of the best places to stay near Olympic National Park and makes a perfect base for your weekend.

• The Sea Shell Cottage is the perfect size for 2-4 travelers. It features a deep claw-foot bathtub and comes fully furnished. (rates start at $175 per night)
• This house is located in a quiet neighborhood, sleeps 6 and has private parking in the backyard with backyard door combo access. (rates start at $165 per night)

13. Port Townsend

Victorian architecture dominates the eye, but it’s the vintage shops and eateries that will win the heart in Port Townsend, one of the best towns to visit in Washington state. 

The iconic Point Wilson Lighthouse is as romantic a destination as one gets. It was built in 1879, looking out over the similarly famous Puget Sound. It’s not inconceivable that many proposals have been made here. If you’re really into the mood, the house attached to the lighthouse is available for rent.

Port Townsend also makes a point of selling its miles and miles of beach coastline. It’s a major draw, especially if you enjoy walking along sandy shores along the water. 

If you have an evening to spare, support the local production at the Rose Theater on Taylor Street. In the daytime, you can walk uptown to visit the farmer’s market for a taste of some local wares. 

• Dove’s Perch is just five minutes from the heart of Port Townsend. It is infused with color and sleeps 2 in a soothing lavender-colored bedroom. (rates start at $105 per night)
• This penthouse apartment in the trees is your own private getaway. It sleeps 4 and has a large deck, outdoor furniture and a Weber BBQ. (rates start at $275 per night)

14. Poulsbo

Vikings are the theme in Poulsbo, which makes it one of the coolest and best small towns to live in Washington state. This town has a particular claim to fame for visitors – its bread is the stuff of legend and why many choose to travel here. The bread used to be sold internationally but is now only available in the town. 

Previously, the region was inhabited by the Suquamish people. The Norwegian aesthetic of the town is attributed to its founder Jørgen Eliason, and other Norwegian and Scandinavian immigrants who settled here in the 1880s.

The most popular attraction in the town may be Liberty Bay Waterfront Park. Several boardwalks let visitors enjoy the waterside scenery in this area.

Historic buildings are fascinating to explore in the town itself, while lots of parks and friendly shops and locals add a calm atmosphere. Try the locally brewed beer, and enjoy the sight of the 12-foot Norseman statue, and hike the many trails from within the town itself. 

• This apartment sleeps 3, has a water view, a private bath with jetted tub, and a small exercise room. (rates start at $144 per night)
• This cozy bungalow sleeps 4, has an open floor plan with a fully equipped kitchen and living room, perfect for entertaining your group.  (rates start at $123 per night)

One word defines Sequim, Washington: lavender. Sequim is known as the “Lavender Capital of North America,” and you can find the sweet aroma of the iconic plant in every corner of one of the prettiest towns in Washington.

Lavender fields surround the town adding distinctive color and aroma to the air. Naturally, there’s an annual lavender festival to plan your visit around. If this were the only attractive aspect of Sequim, it might be enough, but there’s more. 

Sequim sits within range of one of the most ancient landscapes in the country. You’d be forgiven for thinking you’d stepped back in time to before industrial times in some places. 

• This cozy bungalow sleeps 4, has an open floor plan with a fully equipped kitchen and living room, perfect for entertaining your group. (rates start at $123 per night)

16. Snohomish

When you want to feel like you’re in the country, head out to Snohomish. There are dozens of different farms here, and depending on the time of the year, you can pick apples or pumpkins, visit a corn maze, or cut down a Christmas tree (one of the best Christmas activities near Seattle ).

Snohomish also loves history and culture, with museums and antique shops prominent in its central town region. Each year, a historic festival takes place: Kla Ha Ya Day, and it forms a part of Seafair, a Seattle-based event in July.

The Lord Hill Regional Park and the Snohomish Aquatic Center are among the landmarks and attractions. Topping the fun-lover’s list, though, is Bob’s Corn and Pumpkin Farm, where there are lots of ideas about what to do with pumpkins (no doubt). 

Something a little gentler is the Mountainview Blueberry farm, where you might be able to pick a few for your own enjoyment. If you’ve brought kids, take them out to the town’s permanent circus.

• This newly renovated private cottage has a full kitchen, sleeps 3 and is walking distance to a wide variety of award winning amazing restaurants.  (rates start at $115 per night)
• This studio cottage is walking distance from restaurants, shops, and Snohomish River. It sleeps 2 and boats a 45-inch flat-screen cable TV. (rates start at $116 per night)

17. Winthrop

Winthrop’s appeal is that it’s distinctively Western-themed. This is easily one of the smallest villages in Washington. It’s also quite snowy in the winter, making it ideal for a ski getaway or a winter hike destination . The Methow Trails boast 120 miles of ski trails that go cross-country. 

The Shafer Museum looks at cultural and historical artifacts related to the community’s past. You can also try the wine and beer at the local Lost River Winery and Old Schoolhouse Brewery, respectively.

Before skiing, there are many great old-style restaurants and shops to stop by. This is interesting, as Winthrop’s official population is less than 500. Still, if you’re looking for a bit of peace and isolation, this is one of Washington State’s hidden gems. 

If you want to look at the local nature, you can’t beat the Staeekhwa Bridge and Trail hike. There’s a lot to do in this small Washington town so that you won’t get bored.

• This brand-new light-filled home sleeps 8 and is the first zero-energy, solar-powered vacation rental home in the region. (rates start at $280 per night)
• This 2 bedroom apartment is a “self-service” boutique inn (no front desk) that provides lodging in Winthrop with scenic mountain and river views from private decks and patios. (rates start at $230 per night)

How many of these small towns in Washington have you been to before? Let me know in the comments!

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a Seattle local who's obsessed with exploring all things Pacific Northwest, especially hiking, road trips, and national parks. She's been to hundreds of places all over the region and started this website to help others discover the beauty of the area and create their own trips.

Leave a 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 .

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in washington state.

With rugged national parks, wild coastline, vibrant cities and friendly small towns, Washington has just about everything a traveler could ask for. To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News considered factors like can't-miss activities, cultural attractions and natural beauty to come up with the best places to visit in Washington state. Want to share your opinion? Cast your vote below to help us determine next year's list.

Olympic National Park

Mount rainier national park, leavenworth, san juan islands, kitsap peninsula, walla walla, north cascades national park, long beach, wa, columbia river gorge national scenic area.

It's no surprise that the Emerald City tops this list. With museums, verdant parks and a robust coffee scene, Seattle's charm is hard to beat. Sample farm-fresh produce at the famous Pike Place Market, admire stunning works of art at Chihuly Garden and Glass or explore the botanic gardens at the Washington Park Arboretum. Meanwhile, aviation enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Seattle's Museum of Flight, and outdoor lovers will appreciate hiking in Discovery Park. No trip to Seattle would be complete without taking in magnificent views of the city from the top of the Space Needle.

This national park in northwestern Washington covers an area of nearly 1 million acres, featuring lush rainforests, rugged coastline and snow-capped mountains. Worthwhile things to do here include investigating tide pools at Mora's Hole in the Wall and Kalaloch's Beach 4, kayaking the crystal-clear waters of Lake Crescent and snapping photos of Ruby Beach's dramatic sea stacks. But if there is one activity you absolutely can't skip, it is hiking through the lush Hoh Rain Forest, one of the best examples of temperate rainforest in the United States. While you're here, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like marmots, elk and humpback whales.

Named for its remarkable 14,410-foot-tall active volcano, the most glaciated peak in the contiguous United States, Mount Rainier National Park is home to one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. View it from Sunrise, the park's highest elevation reachable by car, or experience nature firsthand by hiking the Skyline or Silver Falls trails. And if marveling at centuries-old Douglas firs and red cedars sounds like your cup of tea, plan a visit to Ohanapecosh. Arrive in winter to participate in popular activities such as skiing and snowboarding, or schedule your trip for summer when Paradise's subalpine meadows come alive with colorful wildflowers.  

Leavenworth, a European-style town nestled in the scenic Cascade Mountains, makes for a delightful Washington getaway. Take a stroll through the enchanting downtown, which boasts Bavarian-inspired architecture and an assortment of boutiques and restaurants. In autumn, the town hosts exuberant Oktoberfest celebrations (think: pretzels, polka dancing and steins upon steins of German beer). Meanwhile, those who visit in winter will be treated to reindeer meet-and-greets, twinkling lights and horse-drawn sleigh rides. When you need to warm up, grab a drink at one of the town's breweries, cider houses or wineries.

This 170-island archipelago in upper Puget Sound has three main visitor islands: San Juan Island, Orcas Island and Lopez Island. On San Juan Island, travelers should window shop and explore art galleries in quaint Friday Harbor. Meanwhile, horseshoe-shaped Orcas Island is equipped with excellent hiking trails and panoramic views at Moran State Park, and Lopez Island allows visitors to slow things down with a relaxing beach walk. No matter where you stay, don't leave without taking a whale watching tour – the waters surrounding the San Juan Islands are home to five different types of whales.

The Kitsap Peninsula, which is separated from Seattle by the Puget Sound, is one of Washington's most underrated travel destinations. Bremerton, the region's largest town, features top sights such as the USS Turner Joy, Lions Park and Rodeo Drive-In, one of the largest drive-in theaters in the Pacific Northwest. Poulsbo (nicknamed "Little Norway" for its distinct Scandinavian influence), Gig Harbor (which boasts posh eateries) and Bainbridge Island (home to the beautiful Bloedel Reserve) are also worth a visit. Those seeking a truly unique experience should also book a kayak tour on the Hood Canal; at night, the dark waters glow with bioluminescent plankton.

This picturesque town in southeastern Washington, about 5 miles from the Washington-Oregon border, is best known for its laid-back atmosphere and ample wineries. Take a walk down vibrant Main Street, which is lined with antique shops, cafes and bookstores, or admire the art installations that make up the Whitman College Outdoor Sculpture Walk. Walla Walla's lovely scenery also makes it a prime destination for activities like golfing and biking. But if you'd rather spend your time sipping on a glass of red while taking in a gorgeous sunset, head to one of the region's 130-plus wineries and tasting rooms.

North Cascades National Park, situated about 110 miles northeast of Seattle, is one of those destinations that keeps travelers coming back again and again. Surging waterfalls, verdant valleys and more than 300 glaciers are just a few of this rugged national park's biggest draws. Here, travelers will be encouraged to reconnect with nature by engaging in a number of recreational activities, from hiking and biking to kayaking and horseback riding. If you're short on time, drive the winding North Cascades Highway to soak up as much of this park's natural beauty as you can.

Sitting approximately 35 miles south of Seattle and boasting incredible views of snow-covered Mount Rainier, Tacoma's unique blend of cultural attractions and jaw-dropping scenery make it a must-see vacation destination. The city offers a wide selection of interesting museums, including the Tacoma Art Museum, LeMay – America's Car Museum and the Museum of Glass. Later, stretch your legs at Point Defiance Park, which is home to gardens, hiking trails and a zoo and aquarium. If you're a movie buff, don't miss an opportunity to sightsee some "10 Things I Hate About You" filming locations (several iconic scenes from the 1999 film were shot here).

Located just 20 miles west of the Washington-Idaho border, Spokane is the second-largest city in Washington. First-time visitors can't miss a trip on the Numerica SkyRide, which offers incredible views of downtown Spokane and Spokane Falls. But don't put your camera away just yet – the sprawling Riverfront Park, which was the site of the 1974 World's Fair, is home to several public art installations and the historic Looff Carrousel. If you can swing it, try to pair your visit with a light show at the Spokane Pavilion, an open-air venue that comes to life at night with colorful LED lights.

Visitors travel to this small beach town in the southwest corner of Washington in search of rest and relaxation. You could easily spend your entire vacation with your toes in the sand watching kites soar through the sky. But if you can tear yourself away from the soothing sounds of crashing waves, take some time to explore the Discovery Trail, which features several sculptures along the way commemorating Lewis and Clark's Corps of Discovery. Follow the trail into Cape Disappointment State Park to explore its coastal forests, dunes and wetlands. To round out your trip, stroll along the Long Beach Boardwalk at sunset.

Spanning across Washington and Oregon, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is the largest national scenic area in the United States. Formed over millions of years as volcanic eruptions and floods carved out a corridor in the breathtaking Cascade Mountains, the Columbia River Gorge is characterized by its steep canyon walls, rushing waterfalls, grasslands and temperate rainforests. For an impressive vantage point, hike the switchbacks of Beacon Rock. Though the gorge is beautiful year-round, spring is the best time to enjoy its brightly colored wildflowers (15 species of which are found nowhere else in the world).

Families will appreciate the easygoing atmosphere and abundant kid-friendly activities in Bellevue, located between Lake Washington and Lake Sammamish about 10 miles east of Seattle. From clean outdoor spaces such as Bellevue Downtown Park and Mercer Slough Nature Park to engaging museums like the Bellevue Arts Museum and the KidsQuest Children's Museum, tiny tots will have plenty to do and see in this Pacific Northwest city. Plus, visitors of all ages will appreciate the beautiful Bellevue Botanical Garden, which offers a diverse array of flora and fauna spread across 50-plus acres.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Snoqualmie Valley

Mount St. Helens

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Vashon Island

You may be interested in.

Best Places to Visit in Oregon

Best Places to Hike in the USA

Best Places to Visit in Canada

Best Oregon Beaches

Best National Parks in the World for 2024

Best u.s. national parks for 2024.

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

9 Charming Themed Small Towns in Washington To Explore

This post may contain affiliate links and I may be compensated for this post. Please read our disclosure policy here .

Sharing is caring!

9 Charming Themed Small Towns in Washington To Explore for Families

There are a number of charming small towns in Washington, with some kind of theming, you can visit as either overnight getaways, or day trips, depending on where you live. What I love about these themed small towns, is that they will transport you to another time or place, without ever leaving the state. So, if you are looking to try to escape someplace else for just a short while, check these ideas out.

These charming towns, all with a unique theme, will really make you feel like you traveled someplace special. Many of these you can do as a day trip from the Seattle area, but if you can we recommend at least spending a night to get the full experience of each spot. They are perfect for family travel, couples getaways, girls weekends or just because. Here are five of our favorite spots to feel like you have really traveled someplace in Washington.

Here are 7 Themed Small Towns In Washington (+ 2 Honorable Mentions) You Will Want To Plan A Visit To::

Leavenworth – Bavarian Themed Town

Leavenworth is probably the best known town in the NW to explore, that will give you the feel of being in Europe. It is a Bavarian themed village, with alpine style buildings, nestled between a gorgeous mountain backdrop and the river. Find festivals, great food and drink, wine tastings, shops and more to enjoy during your visit.

When To Visit – Leavenworth is an all seasons town. Spring would be there low season if you are looking for the best deals on a stay there. There are festivals throughout the year, so check their events schedule. If you want to avoid crowds, you will want to avoid festival weekends. Alternatively, if you want to visit when there is lots going on, you will want to attend an events weekend.

Fall offers the Oktoberfest, Winter has many Christmas festivities, summer offers beautiful weather, river activities and festivals and more. Spring is a great time to visit with fewer crowds and better prices!

What We Love About This Town – 

Besides all the theming, great restaurants and shops and so much more – here are a few more things I love about this town:

• You can do it as a day trip over overnight (if you want to stay overnight there are so many great options from budget friendly to splurge spots).
• There is something for everyone. It makes a great couples trip, or girls weekend with all of the wine tasting, and brewery options, as well as so many things kids love like candy stores and gingerbread factories. There really is something for everyone in this small town!
• It is truly a 4 seasons spot. My favorite time of the year to visit is fall and especially during their Oktoberfest (I love all the beautiful fall colors and trees). Many people love Christmas and the famous Christmas lighting ceremony in the Winter. Visit in the summer and find outdoor activities like river tubing and putt putt golf. Or check out Spring for some of their best rates available and better access to shops and restaurants without the larger crowds some of the other seasons bring.
• It sits above the river, and a short drive from Wenatchee . That means you can enjoy lots of outdoor activities, etc, along with the fun offerings in town.

Where to Stay – 

Leavenworth is full of lots of wonderful places to stay, for all kinds of budgets. We have highlighted a couple of our favorites in each price range to give you an idea of places to start looking.

Budget : KOA or HOJO (Hampton Inn)

Moderate: Leavenworth Tiny House Village or Icicle Village for families

Splurge : Post Hotel or Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort

Port Townsend – Victorian Themed Town

The town of Port Townsends main street is lined with Victorian-era buildings, and you immediately feel like you have jumped back in time. It is just a 2 hour trip from the Seattle area that can include ferries (or not), and so makes a fun day trip or overnight excursion.

While the town itself it not huge, there are a number of restaurant and shops to peruse during your visit, as well as a waterfront area to relax at. Just a short drive up the street is the Fort Worden, where kids can explore creepy old military buildings, and play on the beach.

When To Visit – 

You can enjoy Port Townsend year round. Summer is one of my favorite times to visit Port Townsend. Good weather makes exploring the fort, walking the beach and enjoying the town more enjoyable for me. Fall is also a great option as they have their wooden boat festival in September.

• Make sure to visit Fort Worden to let the kids get out and run, and explore!
• Consider visiting on a Saturday to enjoy their outdoor Farmers Market (happens 9 months out of the year!).
• It sits on the tip of the Olympic Peninsula, so it is a great spot to continue on and explore the rest of the Olympic Peninsula from (consider planning stops in Port Hadlock and Sequim on your way).
• Alternatively you can head the other direction and explore the Kitsap Peninsula (check out our Road Trip Itinerary for the Kitsap Peninsula here for lots of ideas on what to do there.)

Budget : Rent rustic houses at Fort Worden , or camp near the beach !

Moderate: The Swan Cottages

Splurge: The Palace hotel

Poulsbo – Viking Themed Town

Poulsbo is a Viking themed town over on the Kitsap Peninsula, that is packed full of great places to eat, as well as shops to browse. It makes both a wonderful day trip, as well as a fun weekend getaway.

We have a full review of visiting Poulsbo here (what to do, where to eat and more). We also share our favorite Kitsap Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary here , if you want more ideas on how to turn this visit into a full blown vacation!

It sits above a Marina, so you will have beautiful water views here as well, or can access it via boat or car, as well as enjoy the boardwalk to take nice strolls along the water.

Poulsbo can get busy on the weekends, particularly in the summer. That means you can avoid crowds by visiting on the week days, but it also might mean some of the shops are closed and restaurants may be running on limited hours. My favorite time here are summer weekends, even if they are a bit busier – as I know everything will be open. Make reservations ahead of time if you are concerned about getting into your favorite restaurant spot.

• Getting there is half the fun. You can take a Ferry, or drive around and cross the Tacoma Narrows Bridge (both fun scenery).
• One of the things I love most about a Poulsbo day trip, is that you can also combine it with other charming towns nearby (like Port Gamble and Hansville ), to really get the most out of your visit.
• Again, (check out our Road Trip Itinerary for the Kitsap Peninsula here for lots of ideas on what to do there.)

Budget : Best Western Silverdale or Oxford Suites

Moderate: The Inn at Pleasant Beach

Splurge: Clearwater Casino Resort

Lynden – Dutch Themed Town

My best friend was born and raised in Lynden, so it has always had a special place in my heart. Her family was Dutch, and she always shared about the sense of community it this small town, up near Bellingham.

• It is close enough to Bellingham, that you can couple it with a visit up to this general area.
• It sits near the Canadian border, so you could build it in as a stop on a road trip up to Canada.
• Semiahmoo is a fun resort to stay at up in this area, and use as a base camp. We have more info on that area here if you are interested in a stay here.
• If your kids love waterslides, you can check out the Birch Bay waterpark if you are up in this area.
• If you are coming from the Seattle area, consider taking Chuckanut Drive to make it part of the getaway!

Budget : Sumas Mountain Lodge

Moderate: The Inn at Lynden

Splurge: Semiahmoo Resort in nearby Blaine!

Winthrop – Western Themed Town

Winthrop is a Western Themed town, just past Twisp. It has two big seasons – Winter and Summer. The shoulder seasons of Fall and Spring are also both beautiful in this area, and you may be able to find some better rates on stays in the area.

We have a full guide with lots of ideas on What To Do In Winthrop For Families here .

We love summer in Winthrop with all of the fun warm weather activities like floating the river on tubes , horseback riding, paddle boarding and more. Winter brings activities like snow tubing, ice skating, winter festivals and more. Fall is gorgeous time of the year here, with the leaves all turning beautiful fall shades, and Spring brings wild flowers and offers great weather for hikes.

• If horse back riding, or horse drawn carriage rides to a cowboy dinner cooked over a fire sound amazing to you, this is your spot!
• Take the scenic Cascade Loop, and your drive becomes part of your vacation!
• There are accommodation options for all budgets here. Find everything from canvas tents already set up, to rolling huts and higher end resorts, so all budgets can enjoy this spot.
• Our favorite spot to stay in this area is the Sun Mountain Resort (they have lodge rooms as well as cabins on a lake).

Budget : KOA Cabins , or Glamping or Rolling Huts

Moderate : Methow River Lodge & Cabins or Rivers Edge Resort

Splurge : Sun Mountain Lodge or Cabins on the Lake

Roslyn – Coal Mining Town (also famous for being where Northern Exposure was filmed)

Roslyn is a tiny town that used to be a coal mining town – founded back in the 1800’s. It really rose to fame when they filmed the TV show Northern Exposure there. It sits next to Cle Elum, so even though this town is very small, there is lots to do in the area. Between enjoying the many outdoor activities, resorts in the area, and both towns – this one is definitely worth a visit.

If you plan a day here, be sure to enjoy one of the dining options right in Roslyn. You will not be disappointed, and they have something for most budgets. Village pizza is a popular and affordable spot, The Roslyn Cafe famous, and my favorite is the Roslyn Mexican Grill and its pre-Hispanic Mexican cuisine.

When To Visit –

This is again another four seasons area, with the two biggest being Winter and Summer, but really all seasons are a good option here. You can expect to find snow in the winter, and quite a few winter activities (from snow tubing, to snowmobiling, ice skating and more). In the summer you will find lots of sunshine, swimming, hiking, biking and more.

• It is near Cle Elum, so you can enjoy all that that area has to offer too – which is 4 season of fun for families!
• Lots of great restaurants in this area to choose from.
• It is generally an easy trip from the Puget Sound area (assuming you are not traveling in the winter and have any issues with the pass).
• Stay at the Suncadia Resort nearby as a base camp, and enjoy tons of amenities like multiple pools, waterslides, and seasonal activities.

Budget : Best Western Snowcap Lodge in Cle Elum (we discuss our stay here at the bottom of this article )

Moderate: Hotel Roslyn

Splurge: Suncadia Resort (check out Suncadia in the Winter here , and Staying at Suncadia in the Summer here) . 

Langley, Whidbey Island – Island Town / Logging Town

If you are looking for an Island visit, the town of Langley Wa sits on South Whidbey Island and is an old logging town, that has the feel of a fishing town. It is a waterfront town, overlooking the Saratoga Passage, with a quaint main street area full of shops to explore and restaurants to eat at. We visited during their Christmas festival a couple of years back, and share more about the town in detail here .

You can get to Langley by ferry (out of Mulkilteo) or drive across. If you are driving around you will cross Deception pass, which is a gorgeous area. You will then be on North Whidbey and need to drive the span of the island to South Whidbey, so it gives you a flavor for the entire island. Both routes (ferry or driving) make the trip part of the fun.

Summer is the high season in Langley. Since it is a beach town, it is nice to enjoy the area when the weather is best. Winter can get you some great rates though, and sometimes the drizzly and foggy weather can add to the ambiance of the fishing town feel, if you don’t mind the weather.

• You can access it by driving over the Deception Pass Bridge, and across from North Whidbey to South Whidbey, or by taking a ferry. Both options are beautiful, and will make your trip part of the fun!
• This is a true island spot, if you are looking for the quintessential NW Island getaway
• I spent some of my younger years living on South Whidbey Island, and although there have been many changes over the years it still retains that older Seattle island vibe I remember from a kid (when everyone was known as an islander or main lander over there!).

(Boatyard in on the water)

This area is full of lots of rental options, like tree houses, beach front cottages, log houses and more. If you have been wanting to try an rental style stay, this is a great place to look into that. In addition there are some hotels, motels and camping options to consider as well.

Budget : Camp at the local Fair Grounds, walking distance to Langley or Camp at Fort Casey

Moderate: Eagles Nest Inn

Splurge: Boatyard Inn or Inn at Langley or Captain Whidbey Island

Small Towns in Washington – Honorable Mentions

These last two towns are not as obviously themed as the ones listed above, but definitely have a bit of a themed feel to them, so we wanted to add to our list for those of you looking for as many options as possible.

Forks Wa. – Vampire Town

While Forks Wa. is not really a vampire town, it is famous as the filming location of the Twilight movies, and so we thought some of you might want to add this one to your visit list. It is also located on the Olympic Peninsula, and so is a great spot to add to a trip exploring some of those areas, like the Olympic National Forrest. If you plan to combine a visit with the National Park, we share about free park days here as well as how to get free passes if you have a 4th grader here .

Besides enjoying a little vampire fun in Forks, you might want to check out The 4 Best Beaches for Families in Olympic National Park  to add to your itinerary and The Spruce Railroad Trail Hike if you want to do some hiking.

Union Gap Wa. – Civil War Theming

Union Gap sits just outside of Yakima, and while the entire town does not offer a Civil War theme to it, they do have a very interesting Agriculture Museum in town, and they host some very well attended Civil War re-enactments, and Old Town Days that make the area feel like you are in a different Era.

You can read our full review of our visit to Union Gap here , for a better idea of what you will find in this area.

Do you have any favorite small towns in Washington that you would recommend for a visit?

Now that you have a list of towns to visit with your family in Washington, you can grab our FREE Bucket List Printable to track which ones you want to visit, and what activities you want to do while you are there!

Cannon Beach is not mentioned and it is amazing with a Cape Cod theme…..not a very good list if you do not include it.

Hi Alan, this is a Washington list and Cannon Beach is in Oregon – but yest it is a beautiful area.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Welcome to Thrifty NW Mom! We are based in the greater Seattle / Tacoma area. We are a one-stop resource for ways to save money all around the Pacific Northwest! You’ll find everything from ways to save at the  grocery store ,  online shopping deals ,  free or affordable family events  in the Northwest,  dining discounts ,  frugal DIY tips  and much more!

Recent Posts

Bentgo lunchbox sale – as low as $9.99, lands end backpack sale – 60% off & more + lifetime guarantees, the washington state fair tickets 2024 – discount & deals roundup, back to school shopping on a budget – ways to save on school supplies.

Copyright © 2015 Thrifty Northwest Mom. All Rights Reserved.

The 10 most wonderful places to visit in Washington State

Apr 1, 2024 • 8 min read

Washington State’s perennial highlights are its wild open spaces, ideal for kayaking, climbing, hiking and skiing © Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

Washington is a state of dramatic differences, both physical and cultural. The east mixes vineyards with stark landscapes scarred by past glacial activity, while the west is a patchwork of drippy evergreen forests, clinging to the skirts of snowy mountain ranges punctuated by dome-shaped volcanoes.

Seattle is a glorious combination of cultures and artistic movements, while oenophiles and farmers enrich the city of Walla Walla. Beyond the populated I-5 corridor, the state’s perennial highlights are its wild open spaces – ideal landscapes for kayaking, climbing, hiking and skiing. Roll up your sleeves, grab an oar, ice-ax or pole – these are the best places to visit in Washington .  

1. Leavenworth

Best for Germanic culture

In the early 1960s, the town planners of Leavenworth took a potentially kitsch idea and made it into something wickedly authentic. Attempting to reverse a decline in the lumber industry that had threatened to put the struggling settlement out of business, they turned their small Central Washington town into a themed Bavarian village, complete with dirndl-wearing waitresses, a Nutcracker Museum  and restaurants with names like München Haus plying beer and sausages.

Bavarian Leavenworth avoided overt Disneyfication and quickly became a big hit. The secret is in the details: gabled wooden houses with tidy flower boxes evoke the feel of a Romantische Strasse village, overlooked by a backdrop of pretty Alpine mountains; a Christmas lights festival draws in crowds from all over the state and beyond and enthusiastic locals parade their Teutonic leanings in well-presented food and lodging.

Planning tip:  Book into the Enzian Inn and you’ll be entertained by the hardworking owner, clad in lederhosen and standing on the balcony, blowing on a giant alpenhorn over breakfast.

2. Walla Walla

Best for wine-tasting

If Washington has a Napa, this is it. The Walla Walla Valley and its eponymous town produce some of the best wine vintages in the US, with Syrah, merlot and cabernet currently drawing favorable comparisons with California.

Since the first winery was inaugurated here in the late 1970s, more than 120 establishments have opened in the area, many with tasting rooms spread around a downtown that's collected an array of fine-dining restaurants (and a bundle of awards for historical integrity too). Try Canoe Ridge for its merlot and cab sav and Saffron Mediterranean Kitchen for the subtly flavored pastas and steaks.  

But wine doesn't have a monopoly on the local culture. Despite harboring a population of less than 34,000, Walla Walla has its own symphony orchestra (the oldest west of the Mississippi), an attractive college campus and a deluxe hotel listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It also gets less than half of Seattle’s annual rainfall.

3. Hoh Rainforest

Best for forested walks

Damp, mossy and surreal in an other-worldly Lord of the Rings kind of way, the Hoh is famous for its giant trees, substantial rainfall and multiple shades of green illuminating one of the finest tracts of old-growth forest in North America.

Encased in Olympic National Park and accessed via an 18-mile-long spur road that branches off Hwy 101 near the town of Forks, the forest is guarded by a museum-worthy visitor center , riverside campground and small network of trails. The pièce de résistance is the short but extravagantly wooded Hall of Moss Trail, where national park rangers lead guided walks in summer months.

Planning tip:  Bring a waterproof jacket – they measure rainfall in feet rather than inches here.

4. Winthrop

Best for cross-country skiing

It’s 50 years since the struggling mining community of Winthrop rebranded itself as a grittily authentic Wild West town in an attempt to draw travelers from Hwy 20, which had just been built across the Cascades.

While the wooden frontier-style buildings generated approving nods, Winthrop has added plenty more weapons to its armory in the years since. There’s a museum to smoke-jumping (a heroic form of backcountry firefighting), a strong horse-riding culture, and copious trout- and salmon-fishing opportunities on the Methow River.

However, the number one attraction has to be Methow Trails , an extensive web of paths conceived and maintained by a local non-profit and the second-largest cross-country skiing network in the US. Snow or shine, a visit to the hilltop Sun Mountain Lodge  just ten miles west of town is an essential ritual for a scenic hilltop brunch.  

5. Paradise

Best for alpine hikes

On a clear day in late July, the above-the-treeline national park nexus of Paradise could quite conceivably make you think you’ve died and gone to heaven. Nestled on the southern slopes of Mt Rainier, flower-carpeted meadows are overlooked by the huge, glacier-encrusted dome of America’s finest stratovolcano, rising 2000ft higher than anything else in the Pacific Northwest.

Paradise is the hub for numerous trailheads, from the well-worn Skyline Trail  to the starting point for edgy summit seekers. It also hosts the 1916-vintage Paradise Inn and the refurbished Henry M Jackson Visitor Center, where a modern museum dissects everything from alpine flora to the intricacies of glaciers.

Planning tip:  Park naturalists lead free interpretive hikes from the visitor center daily in summer, and snowshoe walks on winter weekends.

6. Port Townsend

Best for history and architecture

Port Townsend, on the northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula, is the Seattle that wasn’t. An early front-runner in the race to be a cross-continental railway terminus, it ultimately lost out to the better-placed "Emerald City" and fell into a long decline alleviated only in the 1970s when locals recognized the value of the unkempt Victorian-era buildings and coaxed them back to life.

Today Port Townsend is one of the state’s most handsome historic towns, replete with creative restaurants, refined fin de siècle hotels and a curious calendar of year-round festivals where men in handlebar mustaches mingle with ladies in billowing dresses. Don’t leave town without taking in dinner at French-themed Finistère and a movie at the 115-year-old Rose Theatre , a revived cinema that has witnessed the transition from vaudeville through silent films, talkies and technicolor to digital. 

7. Mt St Helens

Best for an outdoor geology lesson

The apocalyptic landscapes of Mt St Helens illustrate the damage wreaked by the famed 1980 volcanic eruption that prompted the largest landslide in recorded history. In all, 230 sq miles of forest were buried under 540 million tons of volcanic rock and ash, and 57 people lost their lives. When the smoke settled, St Helens had acquired a gaping mile-wide crater and lost a staggering 1300ft in height.

Encased in Mt St Helens National Volcanic Monument since 1982, the area today doesn’t enjoy the same level of protection as Washington’s three iconic national parks. However, there is an interesting array of visitor centers, viewpoints and learning centers dotted along the 52-mile approach road (Hwy 504) culminating in the Johnston Ridge Observatory that overlooks the 1980 blast zone. Between them, they document the devastation, post-eruption renewal and volcanic tracking being used to forecast future eruptions.

8. Stehekin

Best for peace and quiet

One of the few settlements in the US outside Alaska that’s disconnected from the main road network, Stehekin is located on the cusp of the North Cascade Mountains at the head of 50-mile-long Lake Chelan and is only accessible by boat or floatplane. Welcome to a splendidly isolated backcountry village (population 75) that only joined the Washington telephone system in 2007.   

Getting to this remote spot is your first conundrum. You can arrive in Stehekin either by boat or floatplane across Lake Chelan or by a trio of long-distance hikes (minimum distance: 19 miles) through the wilderness of North Cascades National Park to the north.

This is prime fishing and horse-riding country. Stehekin Outfitters can organize mounts as well as tent-to-tent hiking, and Stehekin Valley Ranch is the best place to stay, while Stehekin Pastry Company is arguably worth the boat ride or hike alone.

9. Orcas Island

Best for families

There are three main San Juan Islands and more than 170 additional landfalls, islets and seagull perches in the complex archipelago that graces the Salish Sea just south of the Canadian border. If you’re struggling to choose one to visit, you can’t go wrong with Orcas, the largest of the islands by a smidgeon.  

More precipitous than pastoral Lopez yet quieter than nearby San Juan, Orcas walks a fine line between rugged beauty and serviceable tourist facilities: there’s a strong locavore food culture and a handful of progressive restaurants led by the Inn at Ship Bay . The main hub, West Sound, is little more than a small village and amid the surrounding barns and pastures, you can still feel the pioneering spirit of the first European homesteaders who arrived in the 1860s.

Don’t leave the isle without hiking, cycling or even driving to the top of 2399ft Mt Constitution, relaxing by the pool at the gilded Rosario Resort & Spa  and launching a kayak into the sheltered waters of Puget Sound.

Planning tip:  The Inn at Ship Bay also offers accommodation but the dining room is shut during the winter season.

10. Fremont

Best for mavericks, nonconformists and free spirits

Seattle is less a rigidly unified city and more a confederation of eclectic neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality. By far the most outlandish is Fremont, a wacky but self-deprecating enclave north of downtown that refers to itself as "the Center of the Universe" and colors its streets with a troll sculpture , an annual naked bike ride and a chocolate factory that would make Willy Wonka pine for a golden ticket.   

Continue exploring Seattle's incredible neighborhoods with our insider's guide.

When you’re done perusing the junk shops, Bolshevik statues and dinosaur topiaries, Fremont also parades an abundance of microbreweries led by the perennially popular Fremont Brewing Company . 

Take the next step in planning your trip to Washington These road trips will take you to all the highlights in Washington These tips will help you choose the best time to visit These experiences won't cost you a thing  

This article was first published Aug 9, 2022 and updated Apr 1, 2024.

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

Jun 4, 2024 • 13 min read

Lonely Planet staffers share some of their favorite US destinations.

May 6, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 17, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 16, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Apr 3, 2024 • 9 min read

Feb 23, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 30, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 22, 2024 • 12 min read

Oct 17, 2023 • 5 min read

• North America
• The 10 Most Beautiful Towns...

The 10 Most Beautiful Towns in Washington

From the west coast to the east coast, Washington is a photographer’s dream. Not only do they have lovely cities such as Seattle to capture on film, but also many picturesque coastal finds to charming mountain towns and rural villages. We take a look at some of the best towns waiting to be explored throughout Washington. Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Book now and join one of our premium small-group tours to discover the world like never before.

Architectural Landmark

Located in the heart of Central Washington, Ellensburg is a great town with a lot to offer all types of visitors, whether they are art lovers or outdoor enthusiasts. One of several communities within Washington listed on the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations, Ellensburg features a vibrant, historic downtown area with charming buildings housing boutiques, galleries, museums, and restaurants. The stunning verdant surroundings will appeal to those seeking outdoor activities like fishing and hiking. Many special events also take place throughout the year, including the popular Jazz in the Valley, which attracts visitors from around the world.

Friday Harbor

Another town on the Dozen Distinctive Destinations list, Friday Harbor is a charming, historic seaport located on the east side of San Juan Island in Western Washington. Built on a hill, the area, which is a great destination for exploring by foot, is brimming with picturesque scenes at every turn from gorgeous waterfront views to the century old buildings that line the streets. Many of these historic establishments now house restaurants, shops, and galleries, and the area has a thriving arts scene. Plenty of outdoor adventures are available as well, including scenic strolls and kayaking. Friday Harbor is the ideal spot to join a whale watching tour.

A great place for a weekend getaway, La Conner is a beautiful historic waterfront village located between Seattle and Vancouver, British Colombia, on the Swinomish Channel. Guests of this charming town can visit various specialty shops, tucked inside restored historic buildings before strolling outside to take in the beauty of the village’s surroundings. An artist’s paradise, visitors will also find plenty of art in the area’s museums and galleries. With so many things to do and explore, visit during the springtime Skagit Valley Tulip Festival where area fields burst into color, it is easy to see why La Conner is a popular destination.

Leavenworth

A popular year round tourist destination, Leavenworth is an attractive, small town nestled in the gorgeous Cascade Mountains. Once a logging town, Leavenworth took a hit when the industry went bust, and in order to revitalize the area, a decision was made to reinvent the town as a Bavarian -inspired village. Today, guests will find Bavarian-style storefronts and an ambiance that is brimming with old world charm. No matter which season tourists visit, they will find many things to capture their interest whether sampling delicious, authentic German cuisine, participating in festivals, such as the Maifest, a Bavarian celebration of spring, or engaging in outdoor adventures, including mountain biking, skiing, and hiking.

Port Townsend

One of three historic Victorian seaports in the USA, Port Townsend is a vibrant community situated on the Olympic Peninsula. A picturesque town with a flourishing art scene and a host of outdoor adventures, every visitor will find something of interest. Stroll around the historic uptown district to take in the beauty of colorful Victorian mansions or meander through the historic downtown area to marvel at other century-old buildings. In addition to the wonderful restaurants, galleries, and shops found in Port Townsend, the town also hosts many events throughout the year, including the Victorian Festival and award winning theatrical productions at Key City Public Theatre.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,200 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Often referred to as Little Norway on the Fjord, Poulsbo is a lovely town found on Liberty Bay in Western Washington. Deemed an authentic Norwegian community, the town exudes charm and friendliness. The historic downtown is perfect for roaming and discovering bakeries, art and craft galleries, murals and specialty shops. The surrounding area has lush parks where visitors can enjoy a relaxing picnic and a scenic waterfront that can be explored via kayak, canoe, or paddleboat. Proud of their heritage, Poulsbo hosts several events throughout the year, such as the Viking Fest , celebrating their ancestry.

Widely known as the ‘birthplace of the Washington wine industry,’ the scenic Prosser is situated in the foothills of the lower Yakima Valley along the Yakima River in South Central Washington. Visitors can meander along cobble sidewalks illuminated by old fashioned light poles in the historic downtown area where they can eat tasty food, shop for gifts, take a walking tour of the town’s historic homes, or visit the region’s lush vineyards to sample a variety of wines. Those seeking an adventure of a different sort may partake in one of many outdoor activities found in and around Prosser, including canoeing and kayaking.

A mining and logging town once known as Eureka Gulch, Republic is a delightful, small place with a distinct early 1900s look located in Northeast Washington. In town, guests can seek out murals or visit historic sites, including the Kaufman Cabin, built in 1896 and the oldest structure in Republic. They may also visit the Republic Cemetery, which is believed to offer one of the most breathtaking, panoramic views found in Washington, as it overlooks the valley below, Sanpoil River and the Kettle Range. Stunning National Forest lands, lakes, and rivers surround the town as well offering up even more scenic beauty that one will never forget.

Walla Walla

Located in Southeastern Washington, Walla Walla is a larger town brimming with beauty, including alluring tree lined streets. There is a charming downtown area with historical buildings dating back to the 1850s with shops and cafés where guests can take a leisurely stroll. There’s also more than 100 wineries in and around the area along with many tasting rooms. Featured as one of the Dozen Distinctive Destinations, Walla Walla also offers those visiting their town a variety of walking tours, including the Downtown Historic Trail Guide, the Historic Homes Walk, and the Public Art Walk. Other places of interest include the Fort Walla Walla Museum and the great outdoors, which provides many adventures.

Situated in the heart of Methow Valley on the North Cascades Scenic Byway, Winthrop is the town to visit if travelers want to feel as though they have stepped back into the Old West. As with Leavenworth, Winthrop, complete with Western storefronts and wood boardwalks, was designed to attract tourists. Featuring shops, galleries, and restaurants showcasing the area’s bounty, Winthrop is also a great place to experience the scenic outdoors with many summer and winter activities, including over 120 miles of cross-country skiing trails, which are the largest in the nation. Numerous events happen throughout the year as well, including the stunning Balloon Roundup and the lively Rhythm and Blues Festival.

Places to Stay

The best cabins and lodges to book in washington, usa.

See & Do

Travel back in time at washington's camlann medieval village.

The Best Hotels in Washington, USA

Food & Drink

The most beautiful picnic spots in seattle.

Washington State Forests You Need to Visit

Meet Caddy: the Loch Ness Monster of the Pacific Coast

Guides & Tips

This washington town believes a giant octopus lurks in its waters.

Washington State Parks That Are Worth a Visit

The Best Hotels and B&Bs to Book Near Muckleshoot Casino Resort in Auburn, Washington

The Best Coastal Hikes in the Pacific Northwest

This Washington Town Believes That Jellyfish Rained on Them

The Best Hotels to Book Near Waterfront Park, Leavenworth

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,200 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

• Post ID: 362442
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

15 Most Charming Small Towns in Washington

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on October 3, 2023

Part mountains, part dense forests, part rugged, intricate coastline, Washington lies on the border with Canada and features all the natural beauty you could wish for in America’s Pacific Northwest.

With its history rooted in trapping, fishing, logging, and mining, the small towns in Washington act like mirrors to the wealth of their respective pasts.

At the same time, as one of the most liberal states in the country, you can expect to find art galleries, fun festivals, and friendly, open-minded communities in the chilly and charming small town Americana of this state.

15. Anacortes [SEE MAP]

Officially becoming a town in 1891, Anacortes is set on Fidalgo Island in Skagit County. With all the water and little islands in the area, Anacortes is rightfully well known for the Washington State Ferries dock, with services to nearby places like San Juan Island and even Victoria on Vancouver Island, Canada.

This small town is known for Mount Erie, where hiking and walking on its scenic trails is prime for mountain and water views. For some maritime history of the area, head to Anacortes Wt Preston Museum, complete with a rare and historical steamboat to explore.

14. Bainbridge Island [SEE MAP]

The beautiful Bainbridge Island has found fame in recent years as being the setting for scenes from the hit American TV series Grey’s Anatomy.

Not just a location for fans of the show, the town is also a hit with stylish Seattleites, who make the half-hour ferry journey from Downtown Seattle to take time out in the laid-back, waterside town.

Bainbridge Island is the ideal getaway for outdoor lovers, with plenty of nature to lap up in the surrounding area. Renting a bike to pedal around the town and stopping off at one of Bainbridge Island’s many chic eateries is the order of the day here.

13. North Bend [SEE MAP]

The beautifully picturesque North Bend is dominated by the imposing figure of Mount Si. This impressive peak may be a little too much to hike up, but there’s a popular trail that leads to the top of a much smaller peak – Little Si. Hike up here for incredible views of the town and the mountain itself.

North Bend has the perfect small-town feel, made even more perfect given that it is the filming location – and inspiration – for David Lynch’s cult TV series, Twin Peaks.

12. Coupeville [SEE MAP]

Located on Whidbey Island, Coupeville sits on the south shore of Penn Cove and is the second oldest town in Washington.

Named after Thomas Coupe, who settled the island in 1850, the town is abundant with historic buildings and nature. The waterfront area of town is where many of the 19th-century oak buildings can be seen, many of which are now high-end B&Bs and restaurants.

The town’s Front Street has a distinctly old fashioned, laid back atmosphere and is home to numerous museums, shops, and cafes, making for a perfect area to stroll around.

11. Roslyn [SEE MAP]

Originally founded in the late 19th century as a coal mining town, Roslyn had to feature a watering hole to keep workers from going thirsty; thus, The Brick Tavern opened in the 1880s and is still going strong. This is the oldest tavern in continuous operation in the state of Washington.

Other historic buildings abound in picturesque Roslyn, like the Old City Hall & Library, the Immaculate Conception Church, and the Roslyn Museum, where you can learn a thing or two about the town’s history.

Nearby is Lake Cle Elum, a perfect spot for year-round outdoor activities.

10. Gig Harbor [SEE MAP]

The small waterfront town of Gig Harbor stretches for just a mile along a bay near Puget Sound. Set in the shadow of majestic Mount Rainier, the town is located in proximity to many state parks and labels itself as “The Gateway to the Olympic Peninsula.”

Whether you’re you are a keen hiker or water sports enthusiast or just want to spend time by the water, Gig Harbor provides a getaway from the stress of the modern world.

The town has an in-depth Harbor History Museum and old boatyard to explore, as well as numerous waterfront restaurants. It’s the ideal place to stop off and enjoy a long, leisurely lunch.

9. Sequim [SEE MAP]

Featuring a unique climate, Sequim is famous for its lavender production, with the title of the “Lavender Capital of North America.”

This unique climate also makes Sequim an excellent starting point for exploring some of the wettest temperate rainforests in the US (bar Alaska). Hoh Rainforest is an excellent place to experience an almost prehistoric forested landscape.

Even closer, Sequim Bay State Park is ripe for hiking, crabbing, and birdwatching. Want to know more? Head to the informative Museum & Arts Centre, housed in a former post office building.

8. Snohomish [SEE MAP]

The town of Snohomish was founded on the banks of the Snohomish River by early Washington settler E.C. Ferguson in around 1858.

Ferguson set up home here and built the town store and hotel. People began to follow suit and settle in Snohomish to develop their own stylish homes.

The town’s 19th-century architecture remains much the same as it always has. The mismatch of architectural influences of the early settlers of Snohomish can be seen along the town’s small lanes – from English cottages to Dutch homes.

Each of the historic buildings has a style and charm of its own, but now they house chic shops, restaurants, bars, and hotels.

7. Poulsbo [SEE MAP]

Founded in the 1880s by Jørgen Eliason, a Norwegian immigrant, Poulsbo soon attracted waves of other Scandinavian settlers relocating from America’s Midwest. In fact, until World War II, many residents used Norwegian as their first language.

You’ll find remnants of this ancestry dotted around town; at the corner of Viking Avenue-Lindvig Way, there’s a 12-foot tall statue of a Viking, called the Norseman.

This small town in Kitsap County is famous for its bread – named Poulsbo Bread, inspired by a passage in the bible. This used to be sold worldwide, but now you can only get it at the source in Poulsbo.

6. Langley [SEE MAP]

The small, quaint town of Langley is located on Whidbey Island and covers a mere 0.8 square miles. Founded in the 1800s, the town’s original bunkhouse for loggers remains today, as a museum dedicated to the history of the area.

The town’s sunny waterfront and New England style architecture ha relaxed, liberal atmosphere and is home to a thriving arts community.

Notably, soon after women were given the right to vote, Langley elected its first female Mayor; its liberal attitude led it to become home to a vibrant hippie community during the 1960s and ‘70s.

This laid back lifestyle lives on; now Langley’s lanes are home to studios and galleries displaying local arts. There are also numerous creative community events and quirky cafes for visitors to enjoy.

5. Leavenworth [SEE MAP]

Leavenworth began life as a logging town, boasting the second largest sawmill in Washington by 1903. After seeing the success of the Danish-themed town of Solvang, California in 1965, Leavenworth became a popular tourist destination soon afterward, when it was rebranded and modeled on a Bavarian village.

Adopting this theme also meant putting on an annual Oktoberfest, of course, which it still does every year. It’s also famous for the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum, a collection of more than 5,000 nutcrackers through the ages – from thousands of years old to modern day iterations.

4. Port Townsend [SEE MAP]

Port Townsend is set on the very tip of the Olympic Peninsula and boasts a number of Victorian-era buildings.

Walking around this small city, you can get a feel for the 19th-century heyday. The officially designated Port Townsend Historic District is packed full with beautiful buildings, from the impressive County Courthouse to the picture-perfect St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, built in 1865.

For even more history, and a slice of natural beauty, head to the 1879 Point Wilson Lighthouse, which is also the place to go for scenic views overlooking Puget Sound.

3. Winthrop [SEE MAP]

Officially dating back only to 1924, the town of Winthrop originally grew when gold was found in the late 19th century, prompting many a white settler to move here permanently to find their fortune.

The history of gold and the people who settled here trying to get rich from it is documented at the historic Shafer Museum.

For a spot of skiing – both regular and cross-country – head to Methow Trails. If you’d prefer something more laid back, how about some wine tasting at the Lost River Winery?

2. Ellensburg [SEE MAP]

Downtown Ellensburg is well known for its hefty helping of historic buildings, including the ornate Davidson Building (1890) and Central Washington University’s beautiful Barge Hall.

But you might want to start your journey at the Kittitas County Historical Museum, where you can learn the story of the area.

Art is big here, as evidenced by galleries from the Clymer Museum of Art – complete with Western-themed paintings – and the decidedly more modern 420 LOFT Art Gallery.

For a slice of in-city serenity, head to Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park for a stroll.

1. La Conner [SEE MAP]

It doesn’t get much more scenic than this; the river, the pines, the mountains – all of it combines to create a picture-perfect postcard of a Washington town.

It’s not just about the natural beauty of La Conner; it’s also about the culture. You can swing by The Museum of Northwest Art – charting the artistic movement of the Northwest School of artists – The Skagit Historical Museum – which also boasts a fantastic view, or the Quilt Museum, set in one of La Conner’s oldest houses – the Gaches Mansion.

This small town also hosts many events featured in the annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, too.

Share this post:

10 Best Places to Visit in Washington State

12 Best National & State Parks in Washington State

12 Best Beaches in Washington State

10 Best Cities to Visit in Washington State

25 Best Places to Visit in the USA

27 Best Things to Do in Washington State

12 Best Things to Do in Bellevue, WA

12 Best Things to Do in Tacoma, Washington

12 Best Things to do in Olympic National Park, Washington

25 Top Tourist Attractions in Seattle

Reader interactions.

July 11, 2021 at 1:04 pm

Should probably change the title to say “Western Washington”. There are plenty of charming small towns in Eastern Washington not mentioned here. (ie. Walla Walla, Pullman, Prosser)

January 25, 2021 at 7:48 am

Not sure what constitutes “small” but many of these places have more than 30k people. Also, zero of these are in Eastern Washington, which leaves out over half of the state.

March 13, 2020 at 9:10 am

I’d like to know which cities are the most affordable

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 .

30 Magical Places for Your Washington State Bucket List

The ultimate washington state bucket list: 30 best places to visit and things to do in washington state.

If you’re dreaming of exploring a destination that combines natural wonders, vibrant culture, and endless adventure, check out these places to visit in Washington State . Our Washington State bucket list will guide you to the must-visit spots that showcase the true essence of the Evergreen State to find the best things to do in Washington State.

From the vibrant cityscapes of Seattle to the rugged beauty of our beautiful National Parks, this Pacific Northwest gem has it all. If you are wondering what to do in Washington State, we have a list that will get you started.

Find our Seattle Bucket List (Best Things to Do in Seattle)

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through my links. This is at no extra cost to you. View our full disclosure  here.

Best Places to visit in Washington State

If you are looking for the best places to visit in Washington State, then we have got you covered! Our list of things to do in Washington helps you choose the perfect destinations to explore the diverse beauty and rich culture of this breathtaking state.

Things to do in Washington State: The Essential Washington State Bucket List

Here are the top things to do in Washington State!

Explore Pike Place Market in Seattle

Pike Place Market houses a diverse array of farmers, artisans, entrepreneurs, and locals. In addition, it boasts a culinary scene that showcases some of Seattle’s finest dining establishments.

Indulge in farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, and artisanal goodies, while supporting local farmers and businesses. Tip: Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and have the first pick of the freshest produce.

Diablo Lake

Diablo Lake is renowned for its mesmerizing turquoise waters surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests. Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, hiking, and fishing, immersing themselves in the natural wonders of the area.

To truly capture the essence of Diablo Lake’s beauty, make sure to go to the Diablo Lake Overlook. From this elevated vantage point, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the lake, mountains, and surrounding wilderness, creating an unforgettable sight that will leave you in awe.

Cape Flattery

Cape Flattery is a truly special destination located in the Olympic Peninsula of Washington State and is on our list of the most beautiful places to visit in Washington State .

It offers dramatic cliffs, stunning sea stacks, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The raw and untouched nature of the area creates a unique and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Hoh Rainforest

The rainforest is home to stunning sights and scenic beauty. From towering trees to sparkling streams, the Hoh Rainforest offers picturesque vistas at every turn. The Hall of Mosses trail, in particular, takes you on a magical journey through a moss-draped wonderland.

Tip: The rainforest lives up to its name, and it’s essential to have waterproof clothing and footwear to stay dry and comfortable.

Leavenworth

Leavenworth is a charming Bavarian-inspired town nestled in the picturesque Cascade Mountains of Washington State. From the dazzling Christmas Lighting Festival to the vibrant Oktoberfest, the town comes alive with music, dancing, and traditional Bavarian merriment at all times of the year.

Leavenworth is home to an array of delightful eateries, ranging from charming cafes to cozy beer gardens and authentic German restaurants. Indulge in mouthwatering bratwurst, hearty schnitzel, and delectable pastries while savoring the flavors of Bavaria.

It is one of our must see places in Washington State and we recommend this charming town at Christmas because it is pure magic!

Deception Pass State Park

Deception Pass is a must-visit for your Washington State bucket list.

This state park is a true treasure trove of natural wonders, but undoubtedly, its crown jewel is the breathtaking Deception Bridge, which connects Whidbey Island and Fidalgo Island.

As residents of Whidbey Island , we are lucky to live right by Deception Pass State Park and can attest to just how beautiful and awe-inspiring it really is. You can find a variety of scenic hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness and interest. Don’t miss the Goose Rock Trail, Lottie Point Loop Trail, and the Bowman Bay Loop Trail, which offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes.

In fact, Whidbey Island itself is the perfect place for a day trip in Washington State with cozy small towns to explore and enjoy.

Tip: It’s a good idea to arrive early, especially during peak seasons (summers and weekends), to secure parking and avoid crowds.

Find the best things to do on Whidbey Island.

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is a spectacular annual event held in the Skagit Valley region of Washington State. You’ll find rows upon rows of tulips in various colors, creating a stunning visual display.

The tulips typically bloom from late March to early April, but the exact timing can vary depending on weather conditions. It’s advisable to check the bloom status on the festival’s website or contact the participating farms to ensure you visit during peak bloom.

Seeing field after field of these stunning tulips is one of the most unique things to do in Washington State!

Space Needle

The Space Needle is often the first thing that comes to mind for many people when they think of Seattle. A visit to the top of this historic landmark offers breathtaking panoramic views of Seattle and its surrounding areas. The observation deck provides 360-degree vistas, allowing you to see the city skyline, Elliott Bay, Mount Rainier, and the Cascade and Olympic Mountains.

The Space Needle is located in the Seattle Center, which is home to other attractions such as the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit, the Pacific Science Center, and the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP). Consider exploring these nearby attractions during your visit.

Don’t miss out on the chance to have an amazing dining experience at SkyCity Restaurant! This place is extra special because it actually rotates, giving you incredible views of Seattle while you enjoy your delicious meal. It’s a fun and unique way to dine that you definitely shouldn’t pass up!

Rialto Beach

There are many beautiful Olympic National Park Beaches on the Pacific Coast that are truly mesmerizing and worth exploring. Rialto Beach is one of our favorites, situated right by the Quillayute River, which separates it from the Quileute Indian Reservation ,

At low tide, you can hike 1.5 miles to explore the captivating Hole in the Wall formation. You can actually pass through the arch and discover an abundance of marine life, including starfish, anemones, and other colorful sea creatures. *Make sure to visit at low tide!*

Tip: Rialto Beach is located right next to First Beach in La Push which is another place you may want to check out if you want to do a Twilight tour in Forks !

Lake Crescent

One of my absolute favorite destinations on the Washington State bucket list is Lake Crescent. This stunning lake is incredibly mesmerizing and renowned for its crystal-clear waters. It offers the perfect setting to enjoy a warm summer day, where you can take a rejuvenating swim at Devil’s Punch Bowl or Fairholme Beach on the lake’s west side, or embark on an exhilarating kayaking adventure at Lake Crescent Lodge.

Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge is a remarkable natural wonder that stretches along the border of Washington and Oregon.

The Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge showcases breathtaking landscapes that include towering cliffs, rugged canyons, and expansive river views.

The Washington side of the gorge is home to several stunning waterfalls that are worth exploring. Beacon Rock State Park features the picturesque Hamilton Mountain and Hardy Falls, offering scenic hikes and beautiful cascades.

Additionally, Cape Horn Trail treats visitors to panoramic views and glimpses of majestic waterfalls like Rodney Falls and Hardy Falls.

Find the best waterfall hikes near Seattle.

Picture Lake

Picture Lake is an iconic spot nestled in the majestic Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and is popular with both outdoor enthusiasts and nature photographers. The best part is that Picture Lake is easily accessible, located near the Mount Baker Highway (SR 542).

Picture Lake is renowned for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Shuksan, a majestic peak towering over the lake. The calm surface of the lake often creates a stunning mirror image of the mountain, resulting in breathtaking photo opportunities.

Tip: Visit in the early morning or late evening when the lighting conditions are ideal for photography.

San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands encompass a group of islands located in the northwest corner of Washington’ s Puget Sound. They are a must-visit destination for your bucket list in Washington.

The San Juan Islands are a prime destination for whale watching. The area is home to a large population of orcas (also known as killer whales).

Make the most of your time at this destination on your Washington State bucket list by island hopping. The San Juan Islands that you can travel to by ferry include San Juan Island (Friday Harbor), Orcas Island, and Lopez Island.

Tip: Make a ferry reservation in advance if you plan on taking a vehicle with you.

Salt Creek Recreation Area

Salt Creek Recreation Area in Port Angeles, Washington, is definitely worth visiting which is why it’s on our Washington State bucket list.

The Salt Creek Recreation Area offers breathtaking coastal scenery with a panoramic view of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. During low tide, you can explore tide pools and encounter a diverse array of colorful sea creatures, such as starfish, anemones, crabs, and more.

Visit a Lavender field

The Evergreen State is filled with lavender farms and we highly recommend adding one to your bucket list for Washington if you are visiting during the summer. Lavender typically blooms in the summer months, specifically from late June to early August.

You can find many lavender farms in Sequim, along with lavender fields in Port Angeles, Mount Vernon, Coupeville , and Vashon Island.

Wine tasting

The state of Washington has gained recognition for its flourishing wine industry and abundant options for wine tasting. So, of course it is a must-have experience on your Washington bucket list, provided you are of legal drinking age, 21 years old and above.

Indulge in the vibrant wine culture and explore the diverse array of wineries that make Washington state a paradise for wine enthusiasts.

Some of the best places to visit for a wine tasting in Washington state are Yakima Valley, Walla Walla, and the Columbia River Gorge. Each of these regions offers unique wine experiences and picturesque landscapes.

Artist Point

Artist Point is a breathtaking destination located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. This particular spot offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Mount Shuksan and the iconic Mount Baker.

One of the highlights that make this location truly special is the mesmerizing reflection of Mount Shuksan in the alpine lake below. This enchanting sight creates a surreal and awe-inspiring experience, especially during calm weather conditions.

Make sure to capture this breathtaking reflection in your photographs as it adds an extra layer of beauty to the already stunning scenery at Artist Point.

Long Beach is a charming coastal town on the southwestern coast of the state, filled with shops, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. Enjoy fresh seafood, browse local galleries and boutiques, and experience the warm hospitality of the community.

It is the longest continuous beach in the world, stretching approximately 28 miles. Long Beach boasts miles of uninterrupted sandy shoreline, perfect for leisurely walks, beachcombing, and building sandcastles.

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is a remarkable destination with several noteworthy places to visit which is why it’s on the Washington State bucket list. Here are a few of the best spots to check out:

Paradise is known for its breathtaking wildflower meadows during the summer months. Sunrise offers unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The vista from Sunrise Point is particularly awe-inspiring, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Grove of the Patriarchs: This enchanting area showcases an old-growth forest with towering, ancient trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old. The Carbon River Rainforest allows you to explore the dense forest, moss-covered trees, and the soothing sounds of the river.

Hurricane Ridge

Hurricane Ridge is a captivating destination within Olympic National Park, known for its stunning beauty and a plethora of attractions. You can find a diverse array of wildlife including mountain goats, black bears, deer, and golden eagles.

There are great hikes to check out, and you can find incredible 360-degree views of Mt. Baker, Vancouver Island, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Hurricane Ridge can be enjoyed during the warmer months, but is also a great place to visit during the winter to go skiiing and sledding.

Tip: Check the website to make sure Hurricane Ridge is open as it may close from time to time due to weather conditions.

Ross Lake is located within the North Cascades National Park and is a special place to visit. The crystal-clear turquoise water is surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests, and is a sight for sore eyes.

You can enjoy all sorts of outdoor activities including boating, kayaking ,canoeling, paddleboarding, fishing, hiking, and canping.

One of our favorite places to visit is Ross Lake Resort where you can fully immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the surroundings and create cherished memories by staying in one of their 15 floating cabins right on the lake! The resort gets booked up fast, but don’t worry – you can also camp out or plan a day visit to the resort.

Palouse Falls

Palouse Falls is a hidden gem in Washington State that should be included on your bucket list for Washington State.. This 198-foot waterfall was formed by the melting waters of the last Ice Age.

Tip: The water flow of Palouse Falls varies depending on the season and weather. The best time to visit is during the spring when the rainfall and snowmelt contribute to a more robust waterfall.

Port Townsend

Port Townsend is a special seaport filled with Victorian architecture that makes you feel like you’re stepping back in time as you stroll through the historic downtown area.

The town hosts various cultural events, festivals, and live performances throughout the year. You can find a variety of local cuisine and farm-to-table restaurants, and sample locally brewed craft beers and spirits.

Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan is a glacially-carved lake nestled amidst the picturesque North Cascades. The crystal-clear turquoise waters are surrounded by majestic mountains, lush forests, and breathtaking landscapes.

At Lake Chelan, you can find all the usual recreational activities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, biking, and swimming. Lake Chelan is also a great place to visit wineries and vineyards to indulge in wine tasting.

Cherry blossoms

Washington State is renowned for its stunning cherry blossoms that paint the landscape in vibrant shades of pink and white during the spring season. This is why visiting the cherry blossoms during the spring is on the bucket list for Washington State.

The University of Washington in Seattle is home to one of the most iconic cherry blossom displays in the state. The Quad, a central area on campus, becomes a breathtaking sight as cherry trees burst into bloom, creating a stunning canopy of blossoms. (See photo above!)

Some other places you can find them are at the Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle, on Lake Washington Boulevard in Seattle, at the Japanese Gulch in Mukilteo, and at Bellewood Acres in Lynden.

Hot Springs

Washington State has a few different hot springs that you can visit. Hot springs are warm mineral-rich waters that can help you relax your muscles, relieve tension, and promote stress relief. Many hot springs contain minerals such as sulfur, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are believed to have various health benefits.

There are a few hot springs in Washington State that you could visit: Olympic Hot Springs, Sol Duc Hot Springs, Carson Hot Springs Resort, Goldmyer Hot Springs, Gamma Hot Springs, and Scenic Hot Springs.

Whale-watching

Embark on a thrilling whale-watching excursion along the Washington coast or in the San Juan Islands. Witness majestic orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat.

Whale-watching is a great and thrilling activity for adults and children alike, and definitely worth a spot on your Washington State bucket list. We recommend it as one of the most fun things to do in Washington State!

Taking a ride on the Washington State ferry is a must for any Washington State bucket list. And there are many different ferry routes to choose from.

A few of the many routes include Seattle to Bainbridge Island, Mukilteo to Clinton (Whidbey Island), Anacortes to San Juan Islands, Coupeville to Port Townsend , Point Defiance to Vashon Island, and more.

Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is a vibrant neighborhood in Seattle known for its lively atmosphere, eclectic shops, restaurants, and nightlife. If you enjoy exploring local culture, then adding Capitol Hill to your Washington state bucket list could be a great choice.

Your Washington State Bucket List Awaits! 5The Best Things to do in Washington State

This Washington State bucket list represents just a glimpse of the incredible experiences and adventures that await you in this diverse and captivating region. Get ready to check off those bucket list items and immerse yourself in the magic of Washington State. Happy exploring!

Author: Katrina

Similar posts.

Explore Deception Pass State Park & Bridge

​Deception Pass State Park is the 5th most beautiful state park in the United States. Did you know that Deception Pass State Park is the…

Exploring Whidbey Island Washington: The Ultimate Local’s Guide

Discover Whidbey Island Washington: Explore the Island Like a Local Nestled in the Puget Sound of the Pacific Northwest, Whidbey Island Washington has a rich…

Fort Casey State Park: Whidbey Island’s Hidden Gem

Preserving History and Nature at Fort Casey State Park Fort Casey State Park is a hidden treasure located on Whidbey Island in the state of…

13 Best Things to Do in Oak Harbor Washington [From a Local]

Find the best things to do in Oak Harbor Washington on Whidbey Island. We’ve curated a list of the best things to do in Oak…

Where to Find Oktoberfest in Washington State 2023

Celebrate Oktoberfest in Washington State 2023! Oktoberfest, the world’s grandest beer festival, is an event that many eagerly look forward to each year. Oktoberfest in…

18 Best Seattle Photography Spots You Don’t Want to Miss

Find the best Seattle photography spots for your next photo shoot. Are you looking for beautiful Seattle photography spots? We have a list of the…

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.

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

10 Charming Small Mountain Towns You'll Be Obsessed With In Washington

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Please verify your email address.

You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.

5.4 Magnitude Earthquake Wakes Up Lisbon Early Monday Morning

7 small towns in colorado to see unique fall foliage, amtrak's newest route might be its most popular ever.

Located on the border with Canada, Washington is known for its unmatched beauty. Boasting rugged landscapes and a gorgeous coastline, the state is one of the most iconic destinations in the Pacific Northwest region of America.

Washington has a rich history in fishing, mining, trapping, and logging – and its small enchanting towns are the places to connect with this fascinating heritage. The communities feature unique art galleries, a wonderful food scene, and friendly locals. Here are the 10 charming small towns you’ll be obsessed with in Washington.

10 Coupeville

A portion of Ebey’s Landing National Historic Reserve, Coupeville is the second-oldest and one of the most charming towns in the state. The town was first inhabited in the 1850s, and vacationers can explore numerous historic buildings in its downtown area, some of which date back to the 19th century.

Some of these historic houses are locations for the town’s most beautiful art galleries, seafood eateries, and boutique shops. One of the most gorgeous spots that travelers wouldn't want to miss is the historic waterfront, which offers a spectacular view of Penn Cove.

9 Anacortes

Located on the beautiful Fidalgo Island in Skagit County, Anacortes became a town in 1891 , known for its fun outdoor adventures. If looking for incredible hiking opportunities and scenic trails, head to Mount Erie, where one can also enjoy breathtaking mountain and ocean views.

History buffs shouldn’t leave the town without catching a bit of history of the area at the Anacortes Wt Preston Museum. Vacationers will also find some colorful shops, restaurants, and galleries spread throughout the town.

Related: An Abandoned, Tree-Lined Ship Can Be Found On The Banks Of Anacortes

8 Bainbridge Island

Fans of one of the hit American TV series, Grey’s Anatomy would definitely recognize this magnificent part of Washington. Bainbridge Island is a must-visit , especially for outdoorsy tourists who love plenty of nature to explore.

It makes an incredible day trip from downtown Seattle, which takes only thirty minutes. The place is popular with people who prefer a laid-back atmosphere and green spaces. There are numerous restaurants that vacationers can explore as they bike around this charming waterside town.

Located on the Olympic Peninsula, Sequim is a paradise for outdoor lovers, thanks to its endless adventure opportunities. The good news is – it receives a lower amount of rainfall compared to other areas in the Pacific Northwest.

With several beautiful shops, sunny weather, lavender farms, and craft stores, Sequim is one of the most gorgeous places on the Olympic Peninsula .

Its Lavender Festival, held every July, and the blooming farms make North America's Lavender Capital. Surrounded by magnificent ocean views and the Olympic Mountains, visiting Sequim is totally worth it.

6 Leavenworth

Widely recognized for its vibrant, authentic Oktoberfest and being a Christmas paradise , Leavenworth is a popular winter destination, but it also offers plenty of opportunities for summer traveling. There are plenty of outdoor activities, such as paddleboarding, fishing, birdwatching, and hiking, among others.

There are several wineries where vacationers can enjoy different drinks , and eat delicious German food in one of the local eateries. There is something for everyone here, which makes Leavenworth one of the best towns to visit in Washington.

5 Ellensburg

Located in the heart of the state, Ellensburg is a charming historic town with a lot to offer history and art enthusiasts. Visit the Clymer Museum & Gallery and the Central Washington University Campus's Department of Art, which has a lot of gorgeous pieces and exhibits to explore.

The Department of Art operates every first Friday. Travelers can also try and catch some of the festivals in the town throughout the year, including wine and music festivals.

4 Gig Harbor

Located on a bay of the same name, Gig Harbor is one of the prettiest towns in America. The town is known for its spectacular scenery, which mostly comes from its stunning historic downtown waterfront.

At the waterfront, there are numerous art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques. Strolling down the streets and taking in the gorgeous scenery is enough reason to visit Gig Harbor.

Some other scenic spots to explore include Skansie Brothers City Park, Kopachuck State Park, and the Harbor History Museum, where vacationers can learn about the city's industrial history.

3 Friday Harbor

Located on San Juan Island, the second largest island of the San Juan Islands , Friday Harbor boasts just about 2,000 residents. It is one of the most impressive seaside towns in Washington and definitely deserves to be on this list.

The town has numerous attractions that would interest any type of traveler. Some of the best things not to miss are the San Juan Islands Museum of Art, Spring Street's beautiful storefronts, and the area's fantastic dining scene.

Related: Bar Harbor: 10 Things That Are Worth Doing While You're Here

2 North Bend

North Bend is known for the iconic Mount Si, whose peak is one of the most spectacular in Washington. Hikers can climb to the peak, which can involve a strenuous hike, but the spectacular views from the top make it worth the effort.

If not into strenuous hiking, use the Little Si, a popular trail leading to a smaller peak, which also rewards hikers with gorgeous views of the town and surrounding, including the mountain itself.

1 Port Townsend

Port Townsend is popular for its beautiful views and incredible local wildlife. The town boasts some of the most impressive Victorian-style buildings, many of which date back to the 19th century. It has a gorgeous walkable downtown with a lot to offer, including beautiful shops and restaurants. The Uptown area of the town also deserves mentioning.

Port Townsend is full of fun outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, boating, fishing, and more. There are also events and festivals held there from time to time.

• Top Sights In Washington

10 of the most charming towns in Western Washington

The natural charm of Western Washington stretches from the state’s rugged coastal borders to the edge of the impressive Cascade mountain range. Yet, despite being home to bustling Seattle, the rest of the region remains vastly undiscovered. From lavender farms to quaint island escapes, Western Washington’s charming towns and villages are just waiting to be explored.

Washington State Ferries (Photo: Floodllama via Flickr / CC 2.0)

Comprising the best of both worlds, Western Washington boasts an extremely diverse landscape – lush evergreen forests, stunning seascapes, and snow-capped mountains can all be found in this picturesque portion of the country. Postcard-worthy views can be found throughout the Western half of the state, which is dotted with quintessentially Pacific Northwest towns and villages, some of which were established centuries ago. These small towns showcase the regions’ varied natural wonders and rich history.

From the rural Pacific coast to the snowy Cascade Mountains, and passing through verdant Evergreen woodlands, Western Washington’s heart and soul lie in its immense natural surroundings highlighted in the local communities. The area’s small towns and villages hold limitless opportunities for both the casual and adventurous traveler. In just a couple of hours, you can go from deep-sea fishing on the coast to an afternoon of skiing in the nearby mountain ranges, or spend the day antique shopping and head out to a craft brewery (or authentic German Biergarten ) to brush elbows with chatty locals after dark.

Here are ten of the most charming small towns and villages in Western Washington that will have you planning a trip back in no time.

Port Townsend

Admiralty Inlet, Port Townsend (Photo: Courtesy of Christina Pivarnik)

Port Townsend is located on the Quimper Peninsula, named for the rugged Brittany region of France which it’s said to resemble. Once expected to be the largest harbor on the West Coast, Port Townsend is also known as the city of dreams. But the port city’s limited accessibility has helped it hang onto its original small-town charm and laidback way of life. Reachable via a scenic ferry ride or a lengthy drive along highway 20, the journey to Port Townsend is almost as picturesque as the town itself. Numerous parks and museums surround, which are frequented by curious visitors and locals alike. The city center doles out exceptional views of the Cascades and Olympic mountains, and classic Victorian architecture is interspersed with modern brick homes; creating a fascinating juxtaposition for photographers or casual passerby.

Known by locals as the jumping-off point to explore the neighboring San Juan island archipelago, the seaside village of La Conner is filled with nature and wildlife at every turn. Every Spring, the fields in the surrounding Skagit Valley come alive with a rainbow crop of tulips framed by the snow-dusted Cascades – the town proudly hosts an impressive annual tulip festival that draws visitors from all over the world. During colder months, visitors can take a leisurely walk through the couple-block town, lined with all kinds of antique shops and boutiques. And it’s hard to beat meandering along the waterfront park, offering sweeping seascape vistas and a chance to spot local birds such as Trumpeter Swans and Snow Geese in their natural habitat.

La Conner Tulip Fields (Photo: Courtesy of TJ Brown on Flickr / CC SA-BY 2.0)

Situated on picturesque Sequim Bay on the Olympic Peninsula, the small town of Sequim is a seafood-lovers delight. The neighboring coastal area is rife with Pacific oysters and clams though it’s also worth mentioning that Dungeness crab hails from this region. A calming walk along the water’s edge showcases beautiful Northwest vistas, and there are plenty of establishments hawking local seafood. Besides being a foodie haven and famously hard to pronounce, Sequim is known for being the lavender capital of North America. Despite being partially on the coast, the inland areas are arid and hilly; the perfect climate for lavender. During July, the town lights up in various hues of blue and purple as the annual Sequim Lavender Festival starts drawing crowds.

Sequim Lavender Fields (Photo: Courtesy of Sequim Tourism Bureau)

Leavenworth

The picture-perfect Bavarian village of Leavenworth is nestled high in the Cascades and will make you feel as if you’ve set foot in small-town Germany. Leavenworth is best known for its authentic and extravagant annual Oktoberfest, which has been consistently voted one of the best in the country. Classic timbered houses and typical Biergarten line the main thoroughfare, where German specialties like bretzels , kebabs and of course, steins of beer are enjoyed year-round. Curious souls will appreciate the town’s Nutcracker museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of vintage Nutcrackers. And for outdoorsy folks, Leavenworth boasts a waterfront recreation area along the Wenatchee river; where rafting and boating are the favorite summer pastimes.

Leavenworth (Photo: Courtesy of Leavenworth Visitor’s Bureau and Icicle TV)

Known locally as the ‘Gateway to the Olympic Peninsula’, Gig Harbor is a bayside town situated on Puget Sound between the bustling city of Seattle and the quieter, westernmost portion of the state. A former fishing village and industrial logging town, Gig Harbor is now a popular yet calm getaway from life in the city. A haven for boaters, cyclists and day-trippers, Gig Harbor is reachable by car or by boat: featuring a large marina showcasing breathtaking views of snow-capped Mount Rainier in the distance. Gig Harbor’s waterfront is lined with multicolored fishing cabins interspersed with enviable modern-day mansions which open up to a charming town center loaded with a variety of farm-to-table restaurants, cool bars, quaint boutiques, and plentiful parks where you can picnic, play Frisbee, or simply enjoy the views.

Gig Harbor from the water (Photo: Courtesy of Jordan Plihal)

Situated just 28 miles from Seattle in the Cascade foothills, Snoqualmie is a quiet town framed by impressive evergreen forests. Natural wonders abound here, and the town and surrounding parks like the 270-foot Snoqualmie Falls waterfall draw hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. A stroll through the town itself will give visitors a peek into a slower laidback way of life. Local commerce is quite varied and includes several galleries featuring Native American art, woodworking shops, knitting boutiques, as well as an up-and-coming bar scene. The town is also home to the Northwest Railway Museum and a full-service casino. During colder months, locals flock to hit the slopes at nearby Snoqualmie Pass, the closest option from Seattle.

Snoqualmie Falls (Photo: Courtesy of Kunal Mukherjee on Flickr / CC SA-BY 2.0)

Famous for being the home of Penn Cove Mussels, Coupeville is an artsy waterfront village on Whidbey Island which prides itself on serving up some excellent shellfish. The scenic journey to Coupeville can be made via private boat, or a ferry ride from either Port Townsend or Mukilteo; both of which provide pristine views of typical Pacific Northwest landscapes and a chance to spot the area’s resident Orca whales. Coupeville’s waterfront town center is lined with bookstores, art galleries, and craft breweries – perfect if you’re in the mood for a low-key day of island living. Local seafood eateries are plentiful and you can dine on Penn Cove’s famous shellfish with a view of the Olympic Mountains in the background. The island as a whole is popular for its immense cycling routes, and quaint you-pick produce stands line the island roads during the summer.

Coupeville Wharf (Photo: Courtesy of Whidbey Island Tourism Board)

Known today as Little Norway and by locals as the Viking City, Poulsbo has a rich history and a generous helping of small-town Scandinavian charm. Beautifully situated overlooking Liberty Bay, legend has it that Poulsbo was first settled by Viking explorers. A stroll through the town is a favorite with visitors of all ages; pastel-colored houses and boutiques line the main streets, and local Sluys bakery has launched Poulsbo to nationwide fame with their tasty take on traditional Norwegian bread. On Saturdays from April-October, head over to the farmer’s market for a real taste of the local lifestyle and a chance to enjoy live music. The Naval Undersea museum pays homage to the areas’ Viking origins and will be a welcome detour for history buffs, while adventurous types can enjoy the many expansive hiking and bicycling routes near Poulsbo.

Poulsbo (Photo: Courtesy of Poulsbo Visitor’s Bureau)

Located just sixty miles from Seattle, and with a population of just under one thousand, Neah Bay is a quiet fishing village that also holds the title of most westernmost point in the continental United States. Despite its small size, Neah Bay’s picturesque setting on the verdant Makah Indian Reservation and pristine sport fishing waters draw a fair number of eager fishermen and curious visitors every year. Once in Neah Bay, visitors can explore the town’s impressive natural surroundings. During summer months surfers, swimmers, and hikers flock to Neah Bay and the surrounding beaches for a tranquil holiday, but the braver souls know Neah Bay is worth a visit all year round. A hike to the famous Cape Flattery is just a 1-mile loop and will provide jagged coastal vistas and a glimpse of rugged Tatoosh island in the distance. Neah Bay also comprises Waddah island whose tidal waters boast some of the country’s best scuba diving, and a chance to see creatures like the Pacific Giant Octopus.

Aerial View of Neah Bay (Photo: Courtesy of Andre W. on Flickr / CC SA-BY 2.0)

Thanks to its unforgettable feature in cult classic Twin Peaks , North Bend receives its fair share of eager fans and tourists, and you can still visit sites from the series like the Double R Diner. Though despite the influx of visitors, North Bend has managed to hold onto its natural charm. Just a quick drive from Seattle on I-5, North Bend is surrounded by dense evergreen forests and mountains allowing the town itself to remain rural and quiet. For those in search of an outdoor excursion in North Bend, neighboring Rattlesnake Ridge park and majestic Mount Si both make for excellent yet challenging day hikes or climbs.

North Bend (Photo: Courtesy of Sandy Hovarth at North Bend Tourism Bureau)

Latest Articles

• 7 Unique Things to Do in Wytheville August 26, 2024
• Where to Find Short Term & Monthly Porto Rentals August 26, 2024
• 5 of the Best Dinner & Sunset Cruises in Maui August 26, 2024
• BVI Yacht / Catamaran Charter: The Best Companies August 26, 2024
• Editor Picks: The Best Florence Duomo Tours August 25, 2024

25 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Washington State

Written by Brad Lane Updated Aug 1, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The natural world is larger than life in the state of Washington. The state is stacked with sleeping volcanoes, lush rainforests, and islands full of attractions. And surrounding these verdant landscapes are cities big and small, brimming with cultural appeal.

Washington State attracts millions of tourists each year. These visitors and potential transplants descend upon the state for various reasons. For those that haven't explored the massive appeal of the Evergreen State, from world-class adventures to one-of-a-kind music and artistic scenes, there's no better time than now to find out what makes Washington so special.

Fun things to do and exciting places to visit are found in every direction in Washington, including the more arid eastern side of the state in cities like Spokane. One trip to Washington will never be enough, and even living there for years won't uncover the entire splendor of the state. Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions in Washington State.

1. Olympic National Park

2. seattle center and the space needle, 3. san juan islands, 4. mount rainier national park, 5. seattle downtown, 6. leavenworth, 7. north cascades national park, 8. puget sound, 9. mount st. helens national volcanic monument, 10. deception pass state park, 11. port angeles, 12. riverfront park, spokane, 13. bellingham, 14. mount baker-snoqualmie national forest, 15. sol duc hot springs, 16. pacific crest trail, 18. snoqualmie falls, 19. fort worden historical state park, port townsend, 20. bloedel reserve, bainbridge island, 21. winthrop, methow valley, 22. palouse falls, 23. washington state capitol building, 24. vancouver, 25. future of flight, everett.

From ocean beaches to glaciered mountaintops, Olympic National Park overflows with incomparable scenery. The park covers most of the Olympic Peninsula, and roads only circle the wild terrain, never cutting through the park's mountainous heart. While auto-touring is fun, the best way to experience Olympic is by hiking trail.

Iconic coastal areas like Ruby and Rialto Beach define the rugged western edge of the park. This stunning slice of the Washington coastline is only a short drive from the oversized trees and abundant foliage in the Hoh Rain Forest . Other popular attractions at the park include the snowy peaks of Hurricane Ridge and the welcoming waters of Sol Duc Hot Springs .

The hiking trails at Olympic National Park traverse many different landscapes, including a Hall of Mosses and the family-friendly Marymere Falls . The Hoh River Trail is an absolute must-do hike for all ages. This lush hiking trail explores the rainforest and river corridor with a flat path for 13 miles before ascending to the lateral moraine of Blue Glacier on Mount Olympus.

For excellent places to spend the night, the campgrounds at Olympic National Park put visitors close to the awe-inspiring scenery presented by this wild western region of Washington. Camping is easier in Olympic NP than in other national parks in Washington, with more campgrounds also dispersed throughout the adjacent Olympic National Forest .

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/olym/index.htm

Of all the top attractions in Seattle, the Space Needle within the Seattle Center is perhaps the most iconic. It was built for the 1962 World's Fair and stands today as a centerpiece of the sprawling Seattle Center . Surrounding the spinning observation deck are more of the city's most iconic attractions , including some of Seattle's best museums .

Alongside the Space Needle, the Seattle Center's 74-acre campus is home to the Monorail, parklands, museums, and restaurants. Among the indoor sightseeing options are the colorful glass artworks at Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Frank O. Gehry-designed Museum of Pop Culture .

Other fun things to check out at the Seattle Center include a plethora of art installations, various theater and stage accommodations, and multiple garden and fountain settings, and on any sunny day in Seattle, the campus offers an excellent place to stroll outside.

Author's Tip: Look into the official Seattle CityPass if you're considering visiting more than one big attraction. This discounted package includes a ride on the Space Needle and automatic entry into the Seattle Aquarium. It also includes three admissions into a selection of other nearby places to visit.

Official site: http://www.seattlecenter.com/

The San Juan Islands are north of Puget Sound, off the northwest mainland. They are a collection of 174 named islands, with the four largest readily accessible by ferry. These four islands are San Juan Island, Orcas Island , Lopez Island, and Shaw Island . The county seat, and most populous city, Friday Harbor , is on San Juan Island and is often a jumping-off point for bigger adventures.

Each main island has a mix of galleries, seafood restaurants, and parks, including San Juan Island National Historic Park. The historic park encompasses both a British and an American Camp that date to the mid-1800s. Here, the park details life at the camp and the conflict known as the Pig War dispute.

Popular destinations within the San Juan Islands include Friday Harbor , Eastsound, and Moran State Park, where visitors will find one of the best campgrounds in Washington . Favorite things to do on the San Juan Islands include sea kayaking, whale watching, and dining on local fare.

Mount Rainier is an iconic Washington landmark seen miles from every direction, including certain vantage points in Seattle on clear days. It's the tallest peak in the state (14,410 feet) and is at the center of its namesake national park.

Two areas of particularly stunning interest include the Sunrise and Paradise regions of the park. The road to Paradise is open, weather permitting, year-round, allowing visitors to reach high elevations for hiking in summer and snowshoeing in winter. The Sunrise area, on the park's northeast side, lives up to its name and is well worth a pre-dawn drive.

Hiking trails at Mount Rainier National Park tour mountain meadows, massive waterfalls, and groves of ancient forests, including the around-the-mountain Wonderland Trail . The country-spanning Pacific Crest Trail also passes through the park's boundaries.

Four auto-campgrounds are among some of the best campgrounds in Rainier . Two of the campgrounds, Cougar Rock and Ohanapecosh , accept reservations and often book out fast. Visitors also find several other places to pitch a tent or park an RV in the national forests surrounding the park.

Other attractions are within easy distance of the park, including Northwest Trek wildlife park in Eatonville and the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad in the little town of Elbe.

It's a large, densely packed city, but downtown Seattle reveals its more relaxed side at the waterfront. Here, piers and parks rim the shoreline, and the chatter of visitors, traffic, and fish throwers add to a vibrant summer soundtrack. Pike Place Market is the standard draw for tourists, but other historic buildings and venerable institutions add diversity to a visit.

Visitors will likely wish to catch an underground tour near Pioneer Square or a performance at Benaroya Hall. And back on the waterfront, a sea-level exploration takes you from the Olympic Sculpture Park in the north to the Seattle Aquarium and ferry terminal farther south. The waterfront is also a popular spot to depart on some of the best day trips from Seattle .

Read More: Best Beaches in the Seattle Area

After the town of Leavenworth experienced the bust following a boom in the logging industry, city leaders rallied and decided to change the town's image. Today, the town of Leavenworth proudly recognizes itself as a Bavarian Village , and it's common to see residents wearing lederhosen or blowing a morning serenade on an alphorn.

Alongside the encompassing Bavarian theme of this tourist town comes several annual festivals. Perhaps one of the most spirited is the annual Christmas Lighting Festival , where the nighttime streets transform into something of a surreal snow globe scene.

Outdoor recreation is also a primary draw to Leavenworth. Craggy Cascade mountains backdrop the town to the west, with iconic destinations like the Icicle Gorge and Alpine Lakes Wilderness nearby. These mountain playgrounds comprise several of Leavenworth's best hiking trails , including the world-famous Enchantments Thru-Hike .

• Best Things to Do in Leavenworth
• Best Campgrounds near Leavenworth

The North Cascades are one of the most unspoiled tracts of country in the United States. And the national park encompassing these mountains caters to anglers, walkers, and nature lovers. To the north, the park shares a border with British Columbia, Canada.

A drive through the park on the North Cascades Scenic Byway is rewarded with fantastic views. Some of the many highlights of this drive include the Washington Pass Overlook, the aquamarine waters of Ross Lake , and the western-inspired town of Winthrop in the Methow Valley.

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area borders the southern edge of the national park and is home to one of the deepest lakes in the country. It also provides a stunning backdrop for the mountain town of Stehekin (only accessible by foot, boat, or seaplane).

Many hiking opportunities in the North Cascades are steep, though some of the best hikes in the area also incorporate family-friendly treks with stunning mountain views. Head to the North Cascades Institute within the park for other family-friendly adventures in the North Cascades. This non-profit institution offers educational opportunities and overnight visits.

On the state's western border, separating the Olympic Peninsula and Seattle, Puget Sound is a watery region filled with inlets, islands, and unique worlds to discover. Several cities and harbors surround all sides of Puget Sound, offering endless access and places to visit. Some things to do in Puget Sound include sea kayaking, whale watching, and visiting the vibrant communities that define the islands.

An extensive ferry system accesses the different destinations in Puget Sound, allowing for easy day trips and island hopping. A top spot to visit is Whidbey Island , the largest island in the Sound. It's home to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island and the adjacent city of Oak Harbor , located on the island's north side. The island's north side is also home to Washington's most visited State Park: Deception Pass State Park .

South of Oak Harbor, the rest of the island has a quieter tone and more rugged landscapes to explore. Here, Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve encompasses several seaside state parks and historic farmlands. It also includes the charming community of Coupeville , where fresh seafood restaurants serve meals by the water.

To look into the native cultures that once inhabited the region, the nearby Tillicum Village on Blake Island Marine State Park offers another popular day trip from the city.

Mount St. Helens erupted on May 18th, 1980, reducing its peak by 1,300 feet and leveling much of the surrounding area. A cloud of ash rose 13 miles into the air, houses were overwhelmed by masses of water and mud, and almost 150 square miles of forest were destroyed. And most tragically, 57 people lost their lives.

Mount St. Helens's landscape is still rebounding from the massive event. Today, visitors are encouraged to learn more about the geological processes underway at the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument.

One of the most popular places to observe and learn about the mountain is the Johnston Ridge Observatory at the end of the Spirit Lake Highway (SR 504). This unique visitor center offers further insight into the eruptive history of the mountain and is a launching point for many of Mount St. Helens' best hiking trails .

A bucket-list adventure at Mount St. Helens is hiking/climbing all the way up to the remaining crater. This challenging endeavor is usually done from the Climber's Bivouac trailhead on the south side of the mountain. Permits are required for any summit attempt on Mount St. Helens.

Official site: http://www.fs.usda.gov/mountsthelens

Read More: Best Campgrounds near Mount St. Helens, WA

The Deception Pass Bridge is an iconic landmark of the region and a civic achievement dating back to the Civilian Conservation Corps. The historic bridge spans Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands in Puget Sound, and on both sides of this scenic bridge, Deception Pass State Park easily ranks high as one of the best state parks in Washington (and most visited).

Activities like tide pooling, hiking, and boating are some of the most popular things to do at the park. Several campsites spread across three campgrounds within the park, facilitating multiple days of adventure. Knowing the tides is the key to success for those interested in passing under the bridge with a boat.

Address: 41229 State Route 20, Oak Harbor, Washington

Official site: https://parks.state.wa.us/497/Deception-Pass

The town of Port Angeles lies along the northern shores of the Olympic Peninsula, across the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The region is known for the huge number of things to do outdoors, such as hiking, biking, golfing, boating, kayaking, fishing, birding, and more.

Port Angeles is also an access point to Olympic National Park , including nearby areas like Hurricane Ridge . At this high alpine recreation area, hiking trails fan out from the visitor center leading to wildflower meadows in spring.

Back at sea level in Port Angeles, the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center features changing Northwest exhibits in the semi-circular hilltop gallery. On the extensive grounds, visitors will find a museum without walls featuring over 100 sculptures along rustic trails.

Port Angeles has many great hotels, eateries, and a waterfront downtown district. It's also where ferries depart for Victoria, Canada. And even if you're not interested in active days taking in all the natural wonders, you'll enjoy the laidback nature of the town and the plenty of bench seats overlooking the water.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Port Angeles

Eastern Washington is notably different than the west side of the state. The weather is considerably sunnier; farmland dots much of the landscape; and the population is less dense in much of the region, besides in the major cultural hub of Spokane – the second largest city in Washington.

A crown jewel of Spokane attractions is the illustrious Riverfront Park. This sprawling parkland received a massive revitalization just in time for the 1974 World's Fair. Today, it's dotted with community attractions, including a hand-carved carousel made in 1909. The Spokane River also rushes through the area, with several vantage points overlooking its falls.

Other places to visit in Spokane include gardens, parks, and museums. And for the adventurous, the city offers access to several outdoor playgrounds, including the extensive Riverside Park . Skiing and year-round adventures are also available on the nearby Mount Spokane . Take some time to visit the historic Manito Park , established in 1904 and located south of Interstate 90 and the Spokane River.

Bellingham is north of Seattle, less than an hour from the Canadian border. It's an access point for several iconic Pacific Northwest adventures, including Mount Baker . The town also has a notable collegiate appeal and culture, known for its laid-back vibe and a community emphasis on outdoor adventure.

For a quick introduction to this corner of the Pacific Northwest, stroll through Fairhaven Historic District and duck into local art galleries or catch some sun on a restaurant patio. Outside of this historic district, Western Washington University has amassed an excellent Outdoor Sculpture Collection among its academic offerings, and its campus is dotted with works small and large.

In the surrounding area, visitors can take scenic drives through the mass fields of Skagit Valley tulips in spring or follow the twisting, narrow route of Chuckanut Drive year-round. The Chuckanut Mountains, or the Chuckanuts , are a recreation staple in the area, home to many of the best kikes and best campgrounds near Bellingham . Another popular outdoor attraction is Whatcom Falls Park, with four sets of falls and numerous walking trails.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Bellingham

The Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest runs along the slopes of the Cascade Mountains, with North Cascades National Park to the south and the Canadian border to the north . The wide range of recreational opportunities includes numerous hiking trails, forest cabin rentals, alpine climbing, and one of the best ski resorts in Washington state .

On the Mount Baker Highway (SR 542), the town of Glacier is the closest base camp to the peak. The very small town does offer limited tourist amenities, such as restaurants and lodging. At the end of the highway, the stunning Artist Point area of the mountain offers jaw-dropping views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. Here, several hiking trails, like Yellow Aster Butte and Winchester Mountain Trail, expose beautiful views of both peaks.

Mount Baker is also a major ski and snowboard destination come winter. Mount Baker Ski Area consistently ranks high as one of the best ski spots on the West Coast. The steep 1,000 acres encompassed by the ski area are best suited to moderate or advanced downhill enthusiasts.

The Sol Duc region is at the heart of Olympic National Park and an hour's drive from Port Angeles. The area has several visitor attractions, including iconic hiking trails and the namesake waterfalls. One of the steamiest reasons to visit is the relaxing pools at Sol Duc Hot Springs.

The Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort is operated by a concessionaire and features rooms, cabins, and suites adjacent to the Sol Duc River. Those staying within the resort have free access to the mineral pools and spas, and anyone interested in checking out the rejuvenating water can pay a day-use fee.

The resort also operates a nearby campground for pitching a tent or parking an RV. The only way to stay within the campground or at the resort is with advance reservation.

Spanning the entire length of the United States from Mexico to Canada, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) traverses some of its biggest landscapes as it travels through Washington. Beginning at the sea-level Columbia River Gorge, the PCT heads north to hit such iconic landscapes as the Goat Rocks Wilderness, Snoqualmie Pass, and the mountain town of Stehekin before arriving at the Canadian border.

You don't have to be a long-distance hiker to enjoy any part of the PCT – some of the best day hikes on the Pacific Crest Trail span Washington, Oregon, and California. A few recommended day hikes on the PCT in Washington include Lake Valhalla , north of Stevens Pass, and the challenging but rewarding Kendell Katwalk , north of Snoqualmie Pass.

Located between Seattle and Olympia, Tacoma is one of Washington's larger cities. Once industrial in feel, the city has developed a variety of exceptional museums and cultural venues. Perhaps the most notable, The Museum of Glass features exquisite, translucent pieces by world-renowned artist and Tacoma-native Dave Chihuly.

Extending from the Museum of Glass, a walkway decorated with glass sculptures, known as the Bridge of Glass , allows visitors to reach the nearby Washington State History Museum.

Be sure to spend time at Point Defiance Park when visiting Tacoma. This signature outdoor space encompasses a peninsula jutting into Puget Sound with amazing views across the water. It's also home to the world-renowned Port Defiance Zoo & Aquarium , the Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, Owens Beach , and a vast network of hiking and biking trails connecting them all.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Tacoma, WA

This stunning 270-foot waterfall is one of the most popular natural attractions in the state. Its accessibility from Seattle, less than a 30-mile drive to the west, adds to its popularity. But its sheer stature also lends credence for a visit.

A two-acre park near the falls offers a popular observation deck with different vantage points. The Salish Lodge & Spa is also nearby, offering one of the nicest places to stay within an hour's drive of Seattle. All the rooms at this four-star hotel are spectacular, but the ones facing the falls offer an unbeatable view.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Snoqualmie

Port Townsend is a charming seaport city on the northeast edge of the Olympic Peninsula . It's a spot of cultural and historical value and home to Fort Worden – once part of the coastal defense center known as the Triangle of Fire . Today, visitors to this decommissioned military fort enjoy walking through history and the seaside scenery.

The park encompasses over 400 acres, with several batteries and barracks spread throughout. For those looking to explore the densest collection of these cement structures, head to the park's Artillery Hill. Other on-site attractions include the Coast Artillery Museum and the Point Wilson Lighthouse .

After exploring Fort Worden, the rest of Port Townsend also deserves some attention. The city's most defining feature is its several pieces of 1800s Victorian architecture throughout its uptown and downtown district. These storefronts and homes offer a particular type of charm that pairs well with the saltwater smell of the ocean nearby.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Port Townsend

The Bloedel Reserve is a magnificent 150-acre property on the north side of Bainbridge Island. It once belonged to Virginia and Prentice Bloedel, who amassed their fortunes in the timber industry. And the Bloedels spent more than 30 years cultivating the natural and landscaped gardens still seen today.

The Bloedel Reserve opened to the public in 1988 and has been a top place to visit on the island ever since. For the price of admission, visitors are welcome to take the two-mile looped hiking trail throughout the property. A must-see stop is the Residence itself, surrounded by some of the most intricate gardens.

Bainbridge Island's proximity to Seattle makes it a popular weekend destination . Several other attractions on the island also demand attention, including a Grand Forest laced with hiking trails. And head to Fay Bainbridge Park , near the Bloedel Reserve, for one of the best places to camp and spend the night on the island. It's also a great park to catch a stunning sunset across the water.

The Old West-inspired town of Winthrop in northern Washington is worth more than a weekend visit. This uniquely themed town is within the stunning Methow Valley and is a gateway to the big world of North Cascades National Park . Its year-round adventure status also adds to its appeal.

During the summer months, take some time to mosey about the downtown district, made to resemble the 1850s Old West. Along the wooden boardwalk and within the old-timey storefronts, several modern establishments offer places to shop and dine.

The summer is also the time to explore the expansive Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest surrounding the town.

Come winter, the Methow Valley has a world-class reputation for its extensive collection of cross-country ski trails. The non-profit Methow Trails organization oversees a remarkable 200-plus kilometers of groomed cross-country routes, all open to the public for the price of a day or season pass.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Winthrop, Washington

Ice Age floods over 13,000 years ago carved the present-day Palouse Falls in southeast Washington. And today, this stunning display of gravity is one of the last active waterfalls along this ancient floodway. That's why, in 2014, the Legislator named Palouse Falls the state's official waterfall .

Designation or not, the 200-foot Palouse Falls is quite a sight. For those looking for the best vantage point, head to Palouse Falls State Park . Here, three designated viewing areas offer commanding looks at the falls and interpretive information about their creation.

The park's semi-remote location makes visiting a challenge. The park has minimal camping, but a nearby KOA has spots near the Snake River. This area of Washington is prone to intense heat during the summer, and visitors should check out Palouse Falls as early in the day as possible this time of year.

Set against the southern end of Puget Sound, Olympia is a relatively quiet state capital. Here, the grand white dome of the Washington State Capitol building rises 287 feet above the tree-lined streets and center of town. It's hard to miss the eye-catching architecture when visiting, and the landscaped grounds deserve special attention, especially when the sun is out.

Free, guided public tours highlight the building's interior, including the five-ton Tiffany chandelier and permanent sculptures. Other top attractions of Olympia surrounding the Capitol building include The Olympia Farmers Market, the Hands On Children's Museum, and the nearby Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge.

Address: 416 Sid Snyder Ave SW, Olympia, Washington

In southern Washington near the Columbia River Gorge, Vancouver is a city filled with history and cultural appeal. Some of the attractions of Vancouver include Esther Short Park and Playground, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site , and a summer farmers market filled with live music.

History and natural appeal run deep in Vancouver, and places like the Waterfront Renaissance Trail and Officer's Row add even more unique things to do. With easy access to the vibrant city of Portland, Oregon, across the Columbia River, Vancouver is also a popular jumping-off point for exploring the City of Roses.

Even those who aren't plane buffs will likely be impressed by this jet assembly plant tour at the Boeing Factory, located north of Seattle in Everett. Detailed tours through the facility happen daily under the attraction name Future of Flight.

These popular tours take members of the public through the assembly process of some of Boeing's biggest planes and throughout the working environment of the world's biggest building (by volume). Those interested in taking the tour are advised to book their spot beforehand.

Address: 8415 Paine Field Boulevard, Mukilteo

Official site: http://www.futureofflight.org/

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Everett, WA

More on Washington

Washington State Regions & Cities

With mountains and rain forest, wine country, and urban landscapes, we’ve got something to fit every interest and taste.

Frolic in sand and surf on the southwest coast

Enjoy natural beauty along the Washington-Oregon border

Vancouver , Camas , Stevenson , White Salmon

Embrace island time in Washington’s archipelago

San Juan Islands , Whidbey and Camano Islands

METRO PUGET SOUND

Experience culture in the state’s urban core

Seattle , Tacoma , Bellevue , Everett , Gig Harbor , Issaquah , Woodinville , Vashon Island

Wander wide-open spaces in southeast Washington

Pullman , Clarkston

The Peninsulas

Explore lush green forests and rugged beaches

Olympic Peninsula , Kitsap Peninsula

Discover the wild northeast corner of Washington

Spokane , Republic

Explore from the mountains to the sea

Bellingham , Skagit Valley

Trails & Lakes

Uncover amazing hikes and stunning lakes

Okanogan Country , Ellensburg , Leavenworth , Chelan , Wenatchee

Get up close to breathtaking volcanoes

Olympia , Centralia

Wine Country

Sip your way through southwest Washington

Walla Walla , Yakima Valley , Tri-Cities

Sponsored Content

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

• 7 Whimsical Towns to Visit in The Pacific Northwest

Breathtaking and historically significant, the PNW offers more public lands than most other regions in the US. These towns are full of whimsical history, sites, and encounters between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Cascade Mountains to the east. Experience the magic from the heights of an alpine coaster in the charming Bavarian village in the Cascades or one of the world's largest sinkholes, just off Hwy. 101 in the black basalt sands that fringe Yachats.

See what wildlife crosses your path under the evergreen canopy in Port Townsend, a Victorian town that feels like a fairytale. Tillamook is the cheese-loving town by the bay, while Friday Harbor is an island destination with whale-watching and national parks. See a 1906 shipwreck or climb the Astoria Monument in the first town, the backdrop for a feel-good adventure classic of 1985 and the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies.

Astoria, Oregon

With a cinema-ridden face, Astoria is a whimsical town to discover along the Columbia River shores, just inland from the Pacific . Allegedly the heart of the coastal PNW, near the Washington stateline, this Oregon town blends the region's renowned beauty into its own historic profile. Many recognize the picturesque scenery as the famous background from "The Goonies," while inspiring their own romantic novella or an action film. Home to outgoing locals who enjoy nature outings and a drinking scene, with plentiful museums in between, the harborfront Columbia River Maritime Museum features an impressive 30,000-object collection around fishing, shipping, and military history. Accessible across Youngs Bay via Hwy 101, the 3,763-acre Fort Stevens State Park offers beaches, trails for hiking and biking, as well as a historic fortress and a 1906 shipwreck.

As a gastronomical heaven, don't be surprised at the first recommendation to charge at your adventure with a traditional Michigan treat, a pastie—the best in the state—from Bucket Bites, a food truck. From water sports to beach fun, the stunning Victorian architecture and its ambient fishing village feel enrich every coastal experience in the PNW. The seals along the shores and streets, overflowing with local craft, add one-of-a-kind charm. Home to Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, the Discovery Trail takes you to the early beginnings along knowledgeable signs against a spectacular naturescape. Whether you're in for coastal recreation or memorable natural encounters, climb the stairs to the best hilltop views by the infamous Astoria Column, built in 1926 at 126 feet with murals of Oregon history and an observation deck.

Friday Harbor, Washington

This sleepy town secluded on the eastern edge of the main, eponymous island of the San Juan Islands inspires you to go back in time on a whimsy. As a tiny coastal fishing village, among so many others, Friday Harbor is a picturesque surprise, home to its own airport and a bigger-than-life personality shaped by a rich history established in the late 19th century with fishing and farming. Having blossomed into a delightful tourist destination, discover its quaint maritime charm or sail through all the scenic San Juans . Easily strollable across, along the turn-of-the-century wood frame houses and historic storefronts, many enjoy the authentic feel with not a single stoplight to keep your mind from wondering away. Along its large marina with fishing docks, the fresh seafood shacks and Popeye, the harbor seal add a charming touch, while local tours offer kayaking as well as whale- and wildlife-watching trips.

The Waterfront Park features great viewing spots for nature lovers to sight local populations of orcas and whales from the shores. At its heart, San Juan Islands National Monument is a picturesque 1,000-acre park with abundant wildlife to explore or set a photoshoot against beaches, rocks, and forests. Families love the art and artifacts at Whale Museum, with programs on whales and the ecosystem of the Salish Sea, while Fairweather Park features unique native carvings about the interdependence of Coast Salish peoples and animals. Choose your scenery and level of outdoor adventure along the hiking and biking routes meandering the island, like the easy Beaverton Marsh Preserve Trail right in town. Lime Kiln Point State Park is minutes south for a day hike with trails, a lighthouse, and whale-watching from the shore, while San Juan Island National Historical Park offers native prairies, wooded trails, and Cattle Point Lighthouse.

Hood River, Oregon

Nestled along the Columbia River shores across from Washington , where once the Native Americans watched two white men drown themselves, with Mt. Hood as witness, Hood River is full of whimsy. Lewis' and Clark's tale wouldn't have continued if it weren't for an imprisoned guide on their kayak. Today, the tamed river by three dams is an adventurer's playground for windsurfing and kiteboarding, with excellent hiking and biking trails and recreation along Waterfront Park's crescent-shaped beach, picnic tables, and a boat launch. Laced in lush vineyards, this one-of-a-kind Oregon town is a historic treasure trove of discoveries, having started in agriculture with bountiful fruit orchards. Mt. Hood backdrops your discoveries along a trail or aboard the Mount Hood Railroad, a heritage railway line, with a prepared meal.

Nearby, Hood River SUP and Kayak guide you on unique adventures, while both Hood River Penstock Flume Pipeline Trailhead and Indian Creek Trail-Hazel Avenue Trailhead are easy downstream hikes. Just south of downtown, snap a selfie at Panorama Viewpoint. After Pine Street Bakery for breakfast, stop by the History Museum of Hood River County at Port Marina Park, home to Gorge Sail Ventures. Across the stream, the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail | Mark O. Hatfield West Trailhead is a popular trek or scenic drive connecting you to Mosier Twin Tunnels, Senator Mark O. Hatfield East Trailhead, and more, like Rock Creek Beach. Dine on creative global fare in hip digs at KickStand Coffee & Kitchen with an outdoor fire pit, or enjoy an evening relax at the most popular Cathedral Ridge Winery.

Leavenworth, Washington

Having reinveneted itself in the 1960s from the dumps of a rail and logging industry, Leavenworth, born out of European roots, is Washingon's darling Bavarian village. Multiplying its charms, tourists flock to experience the vibes of another country through authentic German architecture and attractions in the complementing alpine environment of the surrounding Cascades. Starting the morning at Bavarian Bakery, take a stroll along unique buildings, try cuisine and treats, shop your heart out, or join a lively festival. No longer lacking attention, this year-round town abounds in outdoor adventures, while its Oktoberfest is one of the most popular in America. Right at the town's heart, the sprawling Leavenworth Adventure Park features alpine coasters many enjoy for thrills and views of the whimsy surroundings.

Steeped in mountain scenery and German folklore, enjoy hiking, river rafting, and zip-lining amid the stunning peaks. Leavenworth's unique blend and adventurous spirit promise a memorable getaway for every traveler. Steps from downtown, Watefront Park is a popular summertime escape to relax in the shaded ambience steps from downtown, plus biking trails and play areas. To the north, the most popular Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, with its unique animal interactions, will make the upcoming holiday season even more magical. Old Pipeline Bed Trailhead is a popular hike to the east with river, wildlife, and bridge views, north to Castle Rock Trailhead, and Tumwater Mountain, thus completing the loop over a picnic. From the Icicle Ridge Trailhead south onto the Snow Lakes Trailhead, kids love the horses at Icicle Outfitters & Guides.

Port Townsend, Washington

Port Townsend , a whimsical Victorian town, dates back even prior to its founding in 1851 as a bustling seaport. From the early Native Americans to the thriving maritimes, situated perfectly for seafaring, the legacy lines the picturesque Port Townsend Bay and two National Historic Landmark Districts. While it's easy to get caught up in endless wanderings along the streets, admiring the architecture, the village by the sea of enchanting beauty offers to try something new, like join locals in crabbing, a regatta, or go whale-watching. The land-bound tourists can pedal along a pristine path hugging the sound or through greeways under the evergreen canopy. Under an hour and a half away, Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve, offers to leave ordinary behind on a hike through fresh-mountain-air wilderness.

The circa 1879 Point Wilson Lighthouse tips a former military base, winking at the waterway connecting the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Puget Sound with the nearby conference center, camping, and rentable houses of Fort Worden Historical State Park. Once anchored by a thousand tall ships, the town thrums on along the working waterfront, including Boat Haven's over 450 marine trades. Delighting history and art lovers as much as sailors, come for the beach scene and stay for its preserved 19th-century architecture, artistic soul, and culinary excellence, like at the quirky Blue Moose Cafe, serving American breakfast dishes and burgers in a rustic space. After a hot day of sailing, kayaking, rowing, and fishing, the iconic Sirens Pub beckons with its laidback feel for pizza and seafood on a deck, next door to the stately red brick JCHS Museum of Art + History.

Tillamook, Oregon

Steeped in the history of aviation during the Second World War, discovering this whimsical town within a fertile river valley on the edge of the ocean-adjacent Tillamook Bay feels like one adventure after another. Putting its passion for flight, dairy, farm-grown, and fresh seafood into attractions, the rich natural resources come straight from the beautiful surrounding landscapes in abundance. Carnahan and Marine parks offer a relaxing waterfront slice of the Trask River to relax, while Hoquarton Slough laces the town to the north with Tillamook Ironworks Bark Park for you and your four-legged buddy. Steps away, Tillamook County Pioneer Museum explores the city's history through a large photo collection and original exhibits from the first settlers nearby Werner Beef & Brew, not to be missed for lunch or dinner after.

Another popular stop is Fern Restaurant & Lounge on the way to the infamous Blue Heron French Cheese. Aside from a variety of high-quality cheeses, this family-friendly destination for food and wine flaunts a petting zoo and a gift shop. Beyond the trails and vineyards, the bay offers access to over 800 miles of navigable waters for kayaking, crabbing, clamming, and fishing spots. Home to a highly successful dairy industry, tour the sophisticated Tillamook Creamery, an attraction in itself that is nearly impossible to leave without a tasting, a purchase like fresh cream, or a pantry item. Get hyped up by the extensive aviation museum featuring blimps, pilot equipment, and historic airplanes. The twenty-minute drive towards the ocean is well worth it to meet the sunset behind Cape Meares Lighthouse within a wildlife refuge, home to the tentacled Octopus Tree, kind of a celebrity.

Yachats, Oregon

In between the hazy Cascade Mountain horizons and surging ocean waters, Yachats exudes whimsy with its unique name and an even more curious meaning behind it: “dark water at the foot of the mountain.” Perhaps most known for its shoreline with sunk-tide pools in black basalt, the small town is one big natural wonder, widely regarded as a gem on the Oregon Coast. Seeing its rugged black snads in lieu of sandy beaches, producing whimsical protruding landmarks, makes for a phenomenal coastline stroll to the best views from Cape Perpetua. Downtown Yachats offers craft shops and classy galleries like Earthworks, Touchstone, and Wave. Start the day at the Village Bean, Green Salmon Coffee Company, or over breakfast right at your riverfront Drift Inn Hotel and Restaurant.

From boutiques to cafes, spend a sunny afternoon in the shade by the ocean at the city park over a restored marshland, or follow the river through the heart of town on a refreshing stroll to the Pacific Ocean, where the two meet. Yachats Marine Garden is unlike any other botanical destination, and nothing beats fish & chips from LeRoy's Blue Whale for lunch. Many enjoy exploring around the tide pools and sighting migrating wales, while Yachats State Recreation Area offers oceanfront salmon fishing, picnics, and scenic ocean views. Unwind old-school at the top-rated Luna Sea Fish House, among other restaurants and breweries. It's easy to get lost along the whimsical formations, including Devil’s Churn, Spouting Horn, and Thor’s Well, a sunk hole in the rock that drains the ocean away.

It is no secret that the Pacific Northwest is one of the nation's most treasured regions, with a diverse landscape and roots dating back to native tribes, European settlers, and the Lewis and Clark Expedition, like in Hood River. This town offers history and adventures with views of Mount Hood, including SUBing in the Columbia River that once almost drowned the explorers.

These towns keep it really chill against the daunting PNW backdrop, genuinely embracing travelers within forests, peaks, and rugged ocean shores. Tillamook flaunts dewy pastures and zesty indulgences by the bay, while beyond Friday Harbor's sleepy demeanor lies a big island personality. So plan a holiday vacation, a getaway, or come on a whimsy; these towns won't disappoint!

More in Places

9 Prettiest Towns to Visit on the Chesapeake Bay

6 Most Bike-Friendly Towns in Northern California

8 of the Most Charming Towns in Nebraska to Visit in 2024

These 7 Towns In Alabama Have Beautiful Architecture

2024's 9 Most Adorable Small Towns in Utah

10 of the Most Charming Towns in California

8 Delightful Towns to Visit in Connecticut

10 Towns in Oregon that Were Ranked Among US Favorites

How residents of Washington town came together to prevent catastrophic wildfire

ROSLYN — Doug Johnson was packing to leave his home on a hot August afternoon.

He was only there for a quick visit. The fire danger in Roslyn has led Johnson and his wife, Susan, to spend much of their summers with their daughter and grandchildren in Seattle. A go-bag sits on top of their dining room table, ready at a moment's notice. He only comes back about once a week to get his mail and take care of the yard.

"We never imagined this when we moved to Roslyn," he said.

Roslyn, a historic mining town of 950 people and a popular destination for outdoor recreationists, is at the top level of wildfire risk nationally, according to a study by the U.S. Forest Service. Residents and officials have banded together to conduct large-scale fire prevention measures in an effort considered an example for other communities across the West.

Those changes hold lessons elsewhere in the Northwest and in Yakima County, where a fast-moving Slide Ranch Fire destroyed 17 homes near White Swan in June, and the Retreat Fire threated Tieton, damaged a vital irrigation canal and halted traffic on U.S. Highway 12 for weeks east of Rimrock Lake this summer.

Johnson is one of the many people who have stepped up to try to prevent catastrophe in Roslyn. In 2022, he helped start the Roslyn Citizens Wildfire Resilience and Evacuation Committee, a group of residents concerned about fire danger in their community.

He began creating defensible space around his home at least 10 years ago. He pulled out snowberry and lavender bushes along his porch and pruned mountain ash and other trees. This practice is in line with Firewise, a nationwide safety program which recommends clearing foliage and all flammable material within 5 feet of a house and placing screens on vents to catch embers. It also gives recommendations for maintaining a trimmed yard and pruning trees within 30 feet of a home.

The citizens committee had 150 participants and volunteers this year, Johnson said. The Upper Kittitas County Fuels crew, a team of 13 based out of the Roslyn Fire Department, comes by to chip materials left by residents in piles by the side of the road.

For a home with a small yard, creating defensible space might be just a day's activity. To build defensible space around the town of Roslyn, it's taken much more time and effort.

About Roslyn

Roslyn is sandwiched between two large tracts of forest, one owned and managed by the city and the other by Suncadia, a resort and private community association that is home to three golf courses, restaurants and a winery. Beyond that lies the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

Jeff Adams, the mayor of Roslyn and a descendant of coal miners, is energetic when he speaks about fire prevention efforts. Controlled burns and clearing trees and brush have helped reduce fuel in the Roslyn Urban Forest, a 300-acre piece of land the city acquired in 2004.

"As we walk up here this way, you'll see it's night and day difference," he said as he began to hike up the aptly named Forest Resilience Trail, which was created in 2023 to showcase the fire prevention efforts.

In June, U.S. Rep. Kim Schrier, who represents Kittitas County, was here for a visit. Schrier introduced a bill called the National Prescribed Fire Act, which would authorize $300 million for more prescribed burns on federal, state and private lands. Adams said he hopes Schrier's bill gets passed, calling it a common-sense, bipartisan piece of legislation.

Adams praised the efforts of Johnson and the citizens committee, and also the work of Chris Martin, a local firefighter and the former owner of Basecamp Books and Bites, a bustling café and bookstore in the center of Roslyn and a popular spot for the tourists, hikers, and campers who pass through town. Martin moved his family to Roslyn from Seattle, attracted to the small-town charm that reminded him of his upbringing in upstate New York.

Martin became the town's emergency management coordinator during the Jolly Mountain Fire in 2017, which burned 36,000 acres in the Cle Elum Ranger District.

It was a turning point for Roslyn. Things were especially tense that Labor Day weekend, with the first full scale callout of all law enforcement personnel in Kittitas County to notify people about evacuations. Kittitas County and the cities of Cle Elum, Roslyn and Ellensburg declared states of emergency, and started working on plans to move people and government services to Ellensburg if things got worse.

Luckily, no structures were damaged, and the plans weren't fully deployed. But it got people's attention.

"The city was evacuated and shrouded with smoke and there were 20 some odd fire engines parked in town because they're worried about embers," Martin said. "That was like a change-of-underwear moment for the city.

"And it was like, OK, for years, no one's done anything, and it's time to start."

Residents often mention the fire as a wake-up call for the dangers that wildfires presented for Roslyn. Another was the Camp Fire which destroyed much of Paradise, California, and more recently, the 2023 Hawaii wildfires.

After the fire, community members gathered in the Roslyn Yard next to Basecamp Books that October to watch the "Era of Megafires," a documentary about why the fires were happening and what people could do in response. It was one of several showings around the region, co-sponsored by Kittitas Fire Adapted Communities Coalition, which continues to sponsor fire-related film screenings.

Building a fire break

A fire needs three things to start — fuels, oxygen and ignition, Martin recites. "At the end of the day, the only thing that is going to move the needle is reducing those fuels."

The community built an emergency fire break during the Jolly Mountain Fire because of concerns about ember showers, which can travel for miles.

The barrier is one of several planned or completed which aim to block fire spread. Additionally, burns and clearing treatments have been completed  along Cle Elum Ridge to the edge of town, he said. "We're trying to build infrastructure."

Martin oversees the UKC Fuels crew, which was created in 2020. It has been doing prescribed burns in a mix of federal, state and city land, and can also deploy to assist fire response.

"Basically, we're trying to implement the National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy," he said. The strategy is three pronged, to create resilient landscapes, safe wildfire response, and fire adapted communities.

The Kittitas Fire Adapted Communities Coalition is a group of local stakeholders that started meeting monthly in 2017 to collaborate on local fire safety: outreach, home hardening, securing grants, working with power utilities and more.

"It's really the clearing house for that kind of work," Martin said.

Tony Craven, the current chair of the Kittitas Fire Adapted Communities Coalition, said it's not just Roslyn, but the Upper Kittitas County working together as a whole, including Ronald and Cle Elum, with help from Ellensburg.

Craven has deep ties to Roslyn and to firefighting.

The past four generations of the Craven family include a pastor, coal miners and gravediggers for Roslyn's historic cemetery. The cemetery, nestled among the trees, has graves of generations and communities who came for the promises of the mines — Black, Polish, Italian, Lithuanian, Croatian, and more.

Tony's father, William Craven, became the first Black mayor in the state of Washington when he was elected to lead Roslyn in 1975.

Tony was the first of five siblings who became wildland firefighters for the U.S. Forest Service.

"It was probably a holdover of me watching red skies over Montana when I was a kid," Craven said of the start of his career.

In 2001, one of Craven's brothers, Tom, and three other firefighters died during the Thirtymile Creek Fire which burned north of Winthrop. A memorial for the four was built at Roslyn's cemetery.

"It's not supposed to happen," Craven said. "On the other hand, we all know it could happen."

Craven said he has known of too many deaths, injuries and entrapments over the course of his 20-year career, which he described as "too long." But he has continued to work in firefighting, even if he isn't out digging line. He managed Suncadia's forest for 10 years and has recently began to oversee a $10 million Community Wildfire Defense Grant grant from the Biden administration's infrastructure bill, on behalf of the Kittitas County Conservation District. The grant money will be used for similar fuels reduction efforts, especially hardening escape routes.

Evacuation routes

One early project of Craven's, slated to begin next year, is to partner with homeowners to reduce fuels along State Route 903. The road links Cle Elum, Roslyn and Ronald, and heads north to Lake Cle Elum and the Salmon la Sac recreation areas. There are dozens of cabins along the road, along with trails and campgrounds.

Evacuation routes have become a big topic of discussion in Upper Kittitas County. If a fire were to prompt an evacuation on a busy recreation weekend, over 10,000 people might need to leave via State Route 903, he said.

"If there's a fire, that's the only way in and it's the only way out," Craven said.

The escape route situation is a large reason that Doug and Susan Johnson leave during fire season. Members of the citizens committee, including Susan, have recently been focusing on escape routes.

"We're in extreme danger," Doug Johnson said, recalling that people died in their cars while attempting to escape the Camp Fire in Paradise, California.

A changing climate, and community

On Aug. 9, lighting strikes caused three fires between Lake Kachess and Lake Cle Elum.

Over 150 personnel were able to contain the fires to 23 acres. But it was a sobering reminder of the ever present, and growing, danger of living in the 21st century Cascades because of climate change.

Johnson built his home out of cedar in the 1980s, in a time when Upper Kittitas County wasn't known for fires. He is grateful for the fire safety provided by his metal roof, which was originally built to withstand heavy snow, something he said he doesn't see as much of any more, and one of the things that initially drew him to the Cascades.

"In the 50 years I've lived here, it's just a completely different climate. We never had smoke. We had tons of snow. Snowfall is anemic now," he said.

Though Johnson was a schoolteacher in Cle Elum for many years, he worked for the U.S. Forest Service in the summer of 1976.

"They told us, 'You're not going to be fighting fires here. We call this the asbestos district, because it never burns.'"

Much has changed.

Suncadia, a growing getaway

South of Roslyn, not far over the hill from the Johnsons' house, Phil Hess looks out the window of the newly renovated Suncadia Lodge. Perched above the Cle Elum River, it offers a spectacular view of the 6,000-acre resort.

Suncadia's master plan is for 3,500 homes, and it's only halfway built, said Edward Simpkins, director of Suncadia Community Associations. It's expanding to soon include a new commercial area and a 55-and-older community, called the Uplands.

Hess is a longtime forester, recently honored as Washington State Forester of the Year by the Washington Farm Forestry Association. He worked for many years for Boise Cascade, out of Yakima.

Though Hess has only recently taken over Craven's responsibilities, he has worked with Suncadia since the start. Craven said Hess is "a wealth of knowledge." One of his first assignments in the 1990s was to create a fuel break around the perimeter of the entire 6,000 acre property, Hess said. A large portion of the land is held in a conservation trust, preserving much of the pine forest.

Today, Hess has contract crews constantly thinning and clearing areas to reduce fuels on Suncadia property, and they are able to treat about 100 to 200 acres a year.

But risk remains for any community in the trees.

"Fire resiliency does not mean fireproof," Hess said. "The forest is going to burn. The decision space we have, is how it will burn."

Suncadia spends a half million dollars on forest health and fire resiliency work every year and is an official Firewise USA community, Simpkins said. Suncadia is also a member of the Kittitas Fire Adapted Communities Coalition and donated the chipper that the Upper Kittitas County Fuels crew uses.

"We're doing everything we can to avoid what happens in Northern California. That's not going to happen here," Hess said.

An example for others

Rose Beaton, a community resilience coordinator with the Washington Department of Natural Resources, believes what Roslyn and its residents are doing to prevent fire should be an example for the West.

The community resilience division of the DNR was created in 2021. Wildfire Ready Neighbors is one of its well-known programs, which assess properties for fire risk.

Beaton worked the phone hotlines for Kittitas County during the 2014 Snag Canyon Fire. That experience lead to not only a professional interest in wildfire management, but an academic one. She is a doctoral candidate studying wildfire management at the University of Idaho and has looked at how communities are adapting across the West.

"I think what Roslyn has been doing is a kind of a role model for other communities across the West in grassroots movement change," Beaton said. "That's ideally what you would like to see, is residents working with residents, inspiring change amongst each other."

Leavenworth and its Chumstick Wildfire Stewardship Coalition is another example of a community working to become fire adapted, Beaton said.

"Small change equals big change," Beaton said. "Small steps to reduce your wildfire risk in a community can start with one person."

     ___

     (c)2024 Yakima Herald-Republic (Yakima, Wash.)

     Visit Yakima Herald-Republic (Yakima, Wash.) at www.yakima-herald.com

     Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Other items that may interest you

Jelly Roll is coming to Portland’s Moda Center on Sept 1, get last minute tickets

Washington man found guilty in 2020 killing of girlfriend’s infant son, thurston county boat owner has bad day when truck, trailer wind up in puget sound waters, commentary: the new-look seahawks have arrived. can mike macdonald engineer an era worth embracing.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations
• United States

34 Must Visit Places In Tacoma

Published: August 18, 2024

by Tessie Milne

Tacoma, Washington, often overshadowed by its neighbor Seattle, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Nestled along the shores of Puget Sound, this city boasts stunning waterfront views, lush parks, and a thriving arts scene. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or art lover, Tacoma has something for everyone. From the iconic Museum of Glass to the serene Point Defiance Park , you'll find countless attractions that showcase the city's charm. Ready to explore? Let's dive into the 34 must-visit places in Tacoma that will make your trip unforgettable.

Discover Tacoma's Natural Wonders

Tacoma, Washington, offers a stunning array of natural attractions. From lush parks to scenic waterfronts, nature lovers will find plenty to explore.

Point Defiance Park This massive urban park spans 760 acres and features gardens, hiking trails, and a zoo. The scenic Five Mile Drive offers breathtaking views of Puget Sound.

Wright Park Located in the heart of Tacoma, Wright Park is a 27-acre oasis with a pond, playgrounds, and a conservatory filled with exotic plants.

Ruston Way Waterfront A popular spot for jogging, biking, or simply enjoying the view, Ruston Way offers a picturesque waterfront with restaurants and parks along the way.

Swan Creek Park This 373-acre park offers a mix of forested trails and open spaces. It's perfect for hiking, mountain biking , and bird-watching.

Titlow Park Situated along the waterfront, Titlow Park features tidal pools, a lagoon, and scenic walking trails. It's a great spot for picnics and wildlife observation.

Dive into Tacoma's Rich History

Tacoma's history is deeply rooted in its maritime and industrial past. Explore these historical sites to get a sense of the city's heritage.

Washington State History Museum This museum offers interactive exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Washington State's history, from Native American cultures to modern times.

Fort Nisqually Living History Museum Step back in time at this reconstructed Hudson's Bay Company trading post. Costumed interpreters bring the 19th-century fort to life.

Job Carr Cabin Museum Visit the replica of Tacoma's first permanent non-native settler's cabin. The museum offers insights into early pioneer life.

Union Station This historic train station, now a federal courthouse, features stunning architecture and a collection of Dale Chihuly glass art.

Tacoma Art Museum Home to a significant collection of Northwest art, this museum also features rotating exhibits and a beautiful outdoor sculpture garden.

Experience Tacoma's Vibrant Arts Scene

Tacoma boasts a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries, theaters, and public art installations to enjoy.

Museum of Glass This unique museum showcases contemporary glass art and features a hot shop where visitors can watch artists at work.

LeMay – America’s Car Museum Car enthusiasts will love this museum, which houses a vast collection of classic and vintage automobiles.

Broadway Center for the Performing Arts This cultural hub includes three theaters that host a variety of performances, from Broadway shows to local productions.

Proctor District A charming neighborhood with boutique shops, cafes, and a historic theater. It's a great place to spend an afternoon.

Tacoma Murals Project Explore the city's vibrant street art scene by following the Tacoma Murals Project, which features colorful murals throughout the city.

Enjoy Family-Friendly Activities

Tacoma offers plenty of activities that are perfect for families. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone.

Children's Museum of Tacoma This museum offers hands-on exhibits and activities designed to engage young minds. It's a great place for kids to learn and play.

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium Located within Point Defiance Park, this zoo and aquarium features a wide variety of animals and marine life, along with educational programs.

Foss Waterway Seaport Learn about Tacoma's maritime history at this waterfront museum, which offers interactive exhibits and boat tours.

Wild Waves Theme & Water Park Just a short drive from Tacoma, this amusement park features roller coasters, water slides, and family-friendly attractions.

Kandle Park This park offers a wave pool, splash pad, and playgrounds, making it a perfect spot for a fun family day out.

Savor Tacoma's Culinary Delights

Tacoma's food scene is diverse and delicious. From fresh seafood to international cuisine, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Pacific Grill Known for its upscale dining experience, Pacific Grill offers a menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Duke's Seafood Enjoy stunning waterfront views and delicious seafood dishes at this popular restaurant on Ruston Way.

Indochine Asian Dining Lounge This stylish restaurant offers a fusion of Thai, Vietnamese, and other Asian cuisines in a beautiful setting.

The Table A farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes seasonally.

Engine House No. 9 Housed in a historic firehouse, this brewpub offers craft beers and a menu of hearty pub fare.

Explore Tacoma's Unique Neighborhoods

Each of Tacoma's neighborhoods has its own distinct character and charm. Take a stroll through these areas to experience the city's local flavor.

Old Town Tacoma This historic neighborhood features charming shops, cafes, and beautiful views of Commencement Bay.

Stadium District Home to the iconic Stadium High School, this area offers a mix of historic architecture, parks, and trendy eateries.

Sixth Avenue A vibrant street lined with eclectic shops, restaurants, and live music venues. It's a great place to experience Tacoma's nightlife.

Hilltop Known for its rich cultural history, Hilltop is a diverse neighborhood with a growing arts scene and unique local businesses.

Proctor District This family-friendly area offers boutique shopping, a farmers market, and a historic theater. It's perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Unwind in Tacoma's Relaxing Spots

Sometimes, you just need a place to relax and unwind. Tacoma offers plenty of serene spots where you can take a break from the hustle and bustle.

Chambers Bay This scenic golf course and park offer stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. It's a great place for a peaceful walk.

Wapato Park Featuring a lake, walking trails, and beautiful gardens, Wapato Park is a tranquil spot for a leisurely stroll.

Chinese Reconciliation Park This waterfront park offers serene gardens, walking paths, and a pavilion. It's a peaceful place to reflect and relax.

Sehmel Homestead Park Located just outside Tacoma, this park offers a mix of natural and landscaped areas, including trails, gardens, and a playground.

Tacoma's Hidden Gems Await

Tacoma's got a lot to offer. From the stunning Point Defiance Park to the fascinating Museum of Glass , there's something for everyone. History buffs will love the Washington State History Museum , while art lovers can spend hours at the Tacoma Art Museum . Don't miss the LeMay – America’s Car Museum if you're into classic cars. For a unique experience, check out the Chihuly Bridge of Glass .

Hungry? Tacoma's food scene is diverse and delicious. Try local favorites at Indochine or grab a bite at The Red Hot . And if you love the outdoors, the Ruston Way Waterfront offers beautiful views and great walking paths.

Tacoma's hidden gems are waiting for you. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this city will surprise you with its charm and variety. Pack your bags and start exploring!

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.