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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

12 of the best things to do in Washington State

May 6, 2024 • 9 min read

Experience the best of Washington State with this guide to the top things to do © Joel Rogers / Getty Images

Washington’s headline act is its natural environment .

This intricate jumble of deep inlets, high mountains, thick forest, and broad river valleys sprinkled with fruit trees is best enjoyed through some form of self-powered human propulsion, be it on foot , on skis, on two wheels, or with a paddle in your hand.

Playing a more than adequate supporting act are the culture-loaded cities. The region is famed for its glass art, farmers markets, brewpubs, indie music venues and viticulture. For an overarching view of the Lower 48’s most northwesterly state, balance your time between urban and rural.

1. Admire the surreal glass art of Dale Chihuly in Seattle

Eclipsed only by Venice for its innovative glass art, Seattle brings together the magnificent works of Tacoma-born master, Dale Chihuly, in the bright confines of  Chihuly Garden and Glass , a beautifully curated museum that lies in the shadow of the iconic Space Needle . One of the largest galleries in the US devoted to one artist, the exhibition rooms present a dazzling kaleidoscope of orbs, sunbursts and delicate crystal.

Detour: Next door to Chihuly and equally extravagant in design is the super-modern  Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop) an obligatory musical stop in a city that blessed the world with Nirvana, Jimi Hendrix and Heart, among others.

2. Hike the summer meadows of Paradise on Mt Rainier

Few have the time or tenacity to make it to the glaciated 14,411ft summit of Mt Rainier (the Lower 48’s fifth highest mountain) but substantially more people manage to travel by vehicle to the profuse flower meadows at the national park hub of  Paradise . Overlooked by the mountain’s snow-capped dome, this vast natural playground anchored by the handsome Paradise Lodge built in 1916 marks the start of several paths, including the five-mile-long Skyline trail which leads hikers through endless alpine blooms to a 7100ft viewpoint called Panorama Point.

Need more hiking inspiration? Here are Washington State's best walking trails

3. Rent a bike and investigate the “Pig War” on San Juan Island

Largely rural and crisscrossed by a web of winding lanes demarcated by tangled hedgerows, the diminutive San Juan archipelago might have been designed with cycling in mind. Its second largest landfall, San Juan Island, has an unusual history showcased in a  national historical park that explores the legacy of one of North America’s most peculiar “conflicts”. The 1859 “Pig War” is the name given to a protracted military stand-off between the Americans and the British over the newly established international border where the only casualty was a local pig. You can find out more about how direct conflict was avoided, and level heads prevailed at two historically themed “camps” located at opposite ends of the island.

Detour: Afterwards, ferry your bike over to nearby Lopez Island, a 30-sq-mile slice of rural tranquility that’s home to a farmers market, vineyard and spring cycling race.

Excited by the idea of an adventure to San Juan Islands? Check out the First timer's guide to plan your trip. 

4. Visit one of the US’s finest Indigenous archaeological sites in Neah Bay

Of the many Native American tribes in Washington State, few have preserved their history as eloquently as the Makah, a whaling people who have inhabited the blustery northwestern tip of Washington since time immemorial. In 1970, a Pacific storm uncovered the remains of an ancient Makah village on the coast near Ozette, prompting the site to be comprehensively excavated by a group of American archaeologists working alongside tribal members. Rather than relocate the findings, which included whaling weapons, canoes, spears, and longhouses, the 55,000+ artifacts have been kept on the Makah reservation where they are now displayed in a superb museum in the Makah village of Neah Bay.

Detour: If you’ve traveled this far west, press on to Cape Flattery , 7 miles beyond Neah Bay, the most northwesterly point of the mainland US, a dramatic promontory perched high above the raging Pacific. 

5. Wander off the grid in Stehekin

Refreshingly detached from Washington's wider highway network by imposing mountains,  Stehekin is an isolated community in the North Cascades that’s impossible to reach by road. To get there, visitors must either catch a boat or seaplane across Lake Chelan, or hike in through the exhilarating wilderness of North Cascades National Park .

Physical isolation has helped foster Stehekin’s unique character. Home to a historic homestead, an organic garden, and a Seattle-quality wilderness bakery, this is a place to sidle up to nature unhindered by the distractions of the 21st-century news cycle. Rent a bike, grab an oar, or mount a horse and enjoy the simple pleasures of life before the internet and cell phones.

Planning tip: The quickest and most popular hiking route to Stehekin starts on Hwy 20 and tracks 23 miles south across the spectacular 5392ft Cascade Pass. It’s mostly snow-free from late June to late September. See the  national park website for more information.

Looking for more fantastic places to visit in Washington? Here's our guide to the best

6. Watch nature rejuvenating at Mt St Helens

The hot-headed stratovolcano that blew its top here in May 1980 is a more peaceful place these days with nature slowly recolonizing its post-apocalyptic blast zone. For anyone with a passing interest in volcanology, this is an obligatory geology lesson made infinitely more poignant (and fascinating) since the area was designated a  National Volcanic Monument in 1982.

The mountain’s 52-mile approach road (Hwy 504) harbors four different information portals headed up by the Silver Lake Visitors Center at mile 5 and the Johnston Ridge Observatory at mile 52. Both offer an educational assortment of movies, scientific panels, and interpretive trails explaining the finer details of what happened on that fateful day. There’s nowhere else like it in America.

7. Feel the full force of the wild west on Ruby Beach

Battered by sporadic storms and lashed by churning Pacific breakers,  Ruby Beach on Washington’s western shoreline is a windswept swathe of sand and rocks guarded by eroded sea-stacks and littered with piles of tree-trunk-sized driftwood. Come here for bracing walks amid wild ocean scenery looking out for bald eagles and colorful starfish. A short forest path descends from Hwy 101 to the beach at the mouth of Cedar Creek.  

Detour: Drive 32 miles inland to the less blustery but equally primeval world of the Hoh rainforest, an enchanting domain of lichen-heavy trees and dripping ferns.

Wondering when the best time to visit Washington State is? Check out our seasonal guide

8. Embrace spring tulips and daffodils in La Conner

Tiny  La Conner (population 965) packs a sizable punch with its classy B&Bs, niche shops and vivid fields of daffodils, tulips and irises that reach their zenith in spring. Sitting pretty on the flat delta of the fertile Skagit River Valley with the snowy tip of Mt Baker winking in the distance, the town, whose small street grid is lined with salt-of-the-earth restaurants and a trio of arts orientated museums, exudes the air of an upmarket rural retreat. Not surprisingly, it’s gained a reputation as a tranquil weekend getaway for stressed-out Seattleites. For full floral immersion visit the Roozengaarde Display Garden just outside town.

Planning tip: The highlight of La Conner's cultural calendar is the annual Skagit County Tulip Festival in April, an orgy of garden-hopping and florally themed selfies.

9. Sip New World wine in Walla Walla

Washington currently has 20 geographically defined wine growing regions or AVAs each with their own subtleties and nuances but, when it comes to overall tourist infrastructure, there’s only one contender:  Walla Walla .

Sequestered in the state’s well-irrigated southeastern corner, the town and its environs produce what are widely regarded as being the best “new” vintages in the US in more than 100 wineries and tasting rooms. Propping up the tourist economy are all the necessary ingredients of a vibrant viticulture: a handsome Main St, a warm, dry climate, and a clutch of fine restaurants that pair memorable vinos with well-nurtured local food.

10. Cross-country ski around Winthrop and the Methow Valley

Cross-country skiing is invariably confined to small parks and designated resorts but, in the Methow Valley, around the compact town of Winthrop, you can ski for days, from hut to hut and lodge to lodge, along 120 miles of interconnected trails run by a  local non-profit .

The best starting point is the  Sun Mountain Lodge , a self-contained adventure haven with its own trail network perched atop a hill above Winthrop. From here, ski trails link down to the bucolic Methow Valley where several more rustic-chic lodges can rehabilitate your fatigued legs at the end of an invigorating day on the tracks.

The lightly populated valley is bookended by the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it community of Mazama and charming Wild West-themed Winthrop.

Planning tip: Hwy 20, the main road across the North Cascades to Winthrop is closed between late-November and April due to snow blockage. To reach the valley from Seattle during the ski season, you’ll need to take US 2 over Stevens Pass to Wenatchee before switching to Hwys 97 and 15.

11. Go Bavarian in Leavenworth

Leavenworth , Washington’s meticulous recreation of a cute Bavarian village, sits in a spectacular pocket of the Cascade Mountains that’s eerily redolent of the Alps. The former lumber town’s metamorphosis came about in the 1960s when the re-routing of the cross-continental railway threatened to put it unceremoniously out of business. Swapping tree-chopping for tourism, community authorities promptly reinvented Leavenworth with a picturesque German theme complete with gabled “fachwerk” houses, geranium-stuffed flower boxes and bars plying beer and bratwurst. The result is remarkably authentic. Tourists pull over in their droves, not just for the kitschy  nutcracker museum and lederhosen wearing restaurant-staff, but for the numerous hiking, rock-climbing and backpacking opportunities that await in the adjacent  Alpine Lakes Wilderness .

12. Spend a night in Spokane’s historic Davenport hotel

Washington’s second largest metropolis and capital of the so-called “Inland Empire” doesn’t get the same name-recognition as Seattle or Tacoma. Yet urban underdog Spokane is home to one of the grandest hotels in the US, the opulent  Davenport , a deluxe Renaissance-Revival five-star that’s been charming presidents and movie stars since 1914.

Even if you don’t plan on staying the night in one of its historically elegant rooms, it’s worth dropping by this venerable institution to admire the exquisite lobby or nurse a martini beneath the stained-glass ceiling of the in-house Peacock Lounge.

Detour: When in Spokane it would be remiss not to visit downtown Riverfront Park , site of the 1974 World’s Fair, with its SkyRide gondola, hand-carved carousel, and close-up views of powerful Spokane Falls .

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40 Best Things to Do in Washington State

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Article Contents

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

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

Ultimate PNW Bucket List!

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

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

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

Want to try out #Vanlife while visiting Washington?

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

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

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

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

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

A note about camping in Washington state

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

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

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

Amazing adventures in Washington state

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

1. Camp on Shi Shi Beach

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

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

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

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

2. Hot air balloon flight beside Mount Rainier

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Take a food tour with Savor Seattle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Hike to the Enchanted Valley Chalet

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

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

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

19. Spend the night in a Mountain Hut

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Discover the Enchantments

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

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

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

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

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

7. Soak in a hot spring

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

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

Hot spring etiquette

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

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

8. Paddle down whitewater rapids

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

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

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

9. Go on an epic hike

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

Hike (part of) the PCT

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

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

10. Spend the night in a fire lookout

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

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

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

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

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

11. See a concert at The Gorge Amphitheater

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

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

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

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

12. Sample craft beer

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

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

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

13. Eat fresh seafood

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

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

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

14. Go skiing or snowboarding

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

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

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

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

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

15. Go snowshoeing & cross-country skiing

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

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

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

16. Get your adrenaline pumping while mountain biking

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

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

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

17. Chase waterfalls around the state

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

Here are some of our favorite Washington waterfalls : 

Palouse Falls

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

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

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

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

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

Snoqualmie Falls

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

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

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

18. Have an epic camping adventure

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

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

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

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

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

19. Hike to the top of Rattlesnake Ledge

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

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

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

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

20. Visit wine country

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

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

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

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

21. Taste the best doughnuts

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

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

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

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

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

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

Big cities & small towns in Washington state

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

22. Leavenworth

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

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

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

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

23. Seattle

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

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

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

24. Bellingham

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

Things to do in Bellingham

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

25. Skagit Valley

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

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

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

26. Winthrop 

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

Things to do in Winthrop

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

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

27. Stehekin

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Stehekin

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

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

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

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

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

Camping in Stehekin

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

Most epic nature in Washington state

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

28. Olympic Peninsula

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

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

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

29. Lake Diablo 

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

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

Camping near Lake Diablo

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

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

3. Mount Baker

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

Mount Baker in the Summer

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

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

Mount Baker in the Winter

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

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

4. North Cascades National Park

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

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

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

Things to in North Cascades National Park:

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

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

32. Lake Chelan

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

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

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

33. Mount Rainier

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

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

34. San Juan Islands

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

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

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

35. Mount St. Helens

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

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

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

36. Colchuck Lake

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

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

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

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

37. Lake Valhalla

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

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

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

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

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

Best scenic drives in Washington state

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

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

38. Drive along the scenic Mountain Loop Highway

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

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

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

Things to do on the Mountain Loop Highway

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

Tips for your trip to the Mountain Loop Highway

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

Camping along the Mountain Loop highway  

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

“Glamping” on an Alpaca Farm

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

39. North Cascades Highway (Highway 20)

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

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

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

Washington Pass Overlook (hiking, lake, backcountry skiing)

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

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

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

40. Stevens Pass Greenway

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

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

Top Things to Do in Stevens Pass

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

Are you planning a trip to Washington?

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

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

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Have you traveled to Washington state?

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

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

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

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This Lesser-known Coastal Destination Has a Rainforest, 6 State Parks, and the Longest Drivable Beach in the U.S.

The Long Beach Peninsula in Washington state has it all, from sandy beaches and sheer cliffs to old-growth forests and hiking trails.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Craig Tuttle/Getty Images

When it comes to U.S. coastal destinations , we tend to think of California or Florida, forgetting that further north, the ocean still meets the land and the same perks can be found — from surfing and coastal hiking to seafood and fresh air.

One such overlooked coastal destination, the Long Beach Peninsula , stretches out from mainland Washington. On this moody stretch of Pacific Northwest coastline, the weather is dramatic and the scenery is stunning.

The long, reaching peninsula is surrounded almost entirely by water and boasts a whopping 28 miles of Pacific coastline, which is considered to be the longest drivable beach in the U.S. Packed in the coastline’s 28 miles is a little of everything. There are long sandy stretches, boardwalks above the dunes, paved walking and biking trails, surf spots, and rocky cliffs that drop dramatically into the sea. 

The peninsula also has one of the Pacific Northwest’s richest razor clam grounds and great crabbing, fishing, and oystering. In fact, 25 percent of the nation's oysters come from the peninsula’s Willapa Bay. Additionally, a third of the nation’s cranberry crop comes from Washington State, and Long Beach visitors can walk through cranberry bogs or shuck oysters with third-generation oyster farmers.

Beyond being a haven for fresh food, the long, narrow stretch of land is home to six state parks . The gem of the region is the Cape Disappointment State Park on the southern tip of the peninsula. The coastal park has sandy beaches, working lighthouses, and ocean overlooks backed by old-growth forests that contain hiking trails and camping grounds. The narrow, wildly picturesque Dead Man’s Cove can be reached via the park’s Cape Disappointment Trail. 

Nearby, the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge consists of over 17,000 acres of protected tidelands, temperate rainforest, and rare remnants of old-growth forest. The refuge is considered to be a lasting example of what the Pacific Northwest looked like over 100 years ago. And finally, north of the peninsula sprawls the mighty Olympic National Park .

In August, locals take advantage of the coastal winds for the largest and longest running kite festival in North America. The Long Beach Peninsula has even been dubbed "the kite capital of the US.”

The Long Beach Peninsula is located 3.5 hours from Seattle and 2.5 hours from Portland.

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In Washington State's San Juan Islands, Time Stands Still and Nature Reigns Supreme

By Jesse Ashlock

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

On a still summer morning on Washington State 's Orcas Island , I rented a pair of tandem kayaks from a sleepy-eyed, flaxen-haired attendant barely out of her teens, who quickly returned to painting watercolors in the tall grass beside the weather-beaten sales kiosk. A gentle wind went shhh through tall hemlocks as my family paddled, two by two, to a rocky islet at the center of Mountain Lake, on the flank of Mount Constitution. There we clambered ashore, and the kids, Agnes and Rex, immediately began darting among the lodgepole pines, collecting sticks and pine cones to build fairy houses. Aside from the faint smell of a forest fire burning in the Cascades and a smudge of smoke on the eastern sky, it could have been a scene from my own childhood.

Aboard the ferry from Anacortes to Friday Harbor

The Sugar Shack, an ice cream shop beside Cascade Lake on Orcas Island

When I was eight years old, my mother moved my three younger brothers and me to Anacortes, a small island town about two hours north of Seattle . It is the gateway to the San Juan Islands, an archipelago within the Puget Sound and the broader Salish Sea, which divides Washington State from Canada . As an underemployed single mom to four young boys, she needed inexpensive outlets for our considerable energy. Taking our bikes onto the ferry and spending the day in the San Juans was an ideal solution. Certain activities here—huddling inside beach forts assembled out of bleached driftwood, waving at cars while cycling along the agricultural back roads of Lopez Island, watching from the second deck for the underwater “burp” of the ferry as it departs a port—are woven into the helices of my DNA. But I hadn't been in more than two decades. So I booked a trip, to show the islands to my kids, to reconnect with them as an adult, and perhaps to have a few experiences that were out of reach for me as a child. As an added bonus, my mom came along too.

We posted up in a cozy log cabin at Lakedale lodge, a rustic mini kingdom on the island of San Juan, about 10 minutes from the main town of Friday Harbor. To enter, you cross a small causeway—the compound is an island within the island. Karl Bruno, Lakedale's well-seasoned general manager, told me that its founders were pond builders, who in the late ’60s convinced the county to raise the road so that they could create the three lakes around which the resort is now arranged. For a generation it was a campground only, but today there are yurts and canvas cottages in addition to the cabins and tranquil main lodge. Families come back every summer to play life-size checkers and chess, construct birdhouses, and fish in the lakes for cutthroat trout. Sometimes the kids return as grown-ups to have weddings here.

Morning on the sound with Western Prince Whale Watching Adventures

A guest at Lakedale lodge ready to go fishing

Friday Harbor, a charming village that spills up a steep hill from the ferry terminal, looked just as it had 35 years ago, though I suspect that when I was little, the cafés were less chic and the sandwich shops not quite so artisanal. Certainly, the San Juans today have more private islands owned by tech billionaires and more boho big-city refugees, many of whom arrived during the pandemic, than they once did, but this is a place whose residents like things to stay as they are. At Vic's Drive-In , a classic diner on the outskirts of Friday Harbor that claims to be the island's longest continuously operating restaurant, co-owner Brian Carlson, a predecessor of Karl Bruno at Lakedale, tells me about the outrage when a previous owner tried to change the name to Vic's Driftwood Drive-in. Why? “Because it's Vic's, and people in Friday Harbor hate change.” Driving through the woods of Orcas, I kept noticing signage that felt as if it could have been there 50 years ago: “American Legion Sunday Morning Pancake Breakfast”; “Orcas Island Jazz Festival”; “Indralaya, a Theosophical Society.” And, nailed to a telephone pole by a driftwood-strewn beach near the charming town of Eastsound: “Be Kind.”

But what most teleported me back to childhood was the San Juans' eternal landscape, especially its shorelines. On the other side of San Juan Island at Lime Kiln Point , one of the area's best places to spot whales , the kids and I clambered around the igneous rock formations splayed beneath the quaint 106-year-old Lime Kiln Lighthouse, marveling at the tenacity of the madrones that clung to them. Across the Strait of Juan de Fuca we could see the Olympic Peninsula, indistinct in the haze of the wildfires. If the day had been clear, I knew from memory, we would have been able to see Mount Rainier seeming to float on the southern horizon. On the Shark Reef Sanctuary Trail on sleepy Lopez, we emerged from old-growth fir trees to traipse along the bluffs, looking for crabs in tide pools, marveling at the countless barnacles, and observing a colony of sea lions sunning themselves on a rocky outcropping a few hundred feet offshore.

A canvas cottage at Lakedale on San Juan Island

Alpacas at Krystal Acres Alpaca Farm on San Juan Island

Later that day we went to Spencer Spit , where a sandy beach separates a quiet saltwater lagoon from the sound. Well-fed clouds, almost too substantial to be believed, floated above islands carpeted with evergreens, cheerful sailboats, and a poky ferry slowly gliding along the navy blue waters. My kids found a driftwood fort taller than me, with a plank you could move aside affixed with a sheet of paper that was labeled “Door.” They quickly joined forces with siblings from Oregon and embarked on an ambitious series of home improvements: patching up holes, putting in furniture, erecting a seaweed flag. There was already a lump rising in my throat when my mother turned to me and asked, “Does this remind you a lot of childhood afternoons?”

Something I never got to do as a kid was eat at nice restaurants, and there are so many on these islands that make ingenious use of the region's beautiful ingredients. Perhaps our favorite meal was at Buck Bay Shellfish Farm on Orcas, where we ate oysters on the half shell and seafood rolls artfully adorned with edible flowers at a picnic table steps from the bay where the restaurant grows its own crustaceans. Chi, my wife, trapped the persistent yellow jackets under spent oyster shells until a waiter arrived with lavender oil and instructed us to apply it to our wrists to ward off the insects.

I definitely never got to go on a whale-watching tour, so I booked one with Western Prince Whale Watching Adventures . Ivan Reiff, its owner and captain, bought the business more than two decades ago, motivated by a desire to escape the rat race and make a living on the water. Our guide was Katie Jones, a veteran naturalist who also works at the Center for Whale Research in Friday Harbor. “I'm going to stick my neck out and say orcas are some of the most social animals on the planet,” she said. “More social even than we are.” Before long, we found a pair: Sprinter, a 20-year-old adult male, and Esperanza, born in the 1960s and presumed to be Sprinter's grandmother. We followed them for 45 minutes as they cruised along, hunting harbor seals near a rocky outcropping covered with cormorants and other nesting birds. The sharp black triangles of their dorsal fins felt like the yin to the yang of the white sails dotting the sound.

The porch of the Outlook Inn in the village of Eastsound, on Orcas Island

Inside a log cabin at Lakedale

We ventured briefly into Canadian waters, then passed Turn Point Light Station , atop the striated sandstone walls of Stuart Island. The depth of the sound here reaches 1,300 feet. These islands, Katie observed, are just the tops of the mountains; their southern sides are often barren because of the movement of the glaciers which carved out the Salish Sea 10,000 years ago. In the place where our boat was, there once would have been a mile of ice above our heads. I realized right then that even if I'd had no childhood connection to the San Juans, I still would have found visiting them as an adult to be astonishing.

The feeling of wonder continued that evening, when Chi and I left the kids with my mom and ventured out onto the water at dusk with Discovery Sea Kayaks to experience the bioluminescent wonders of the noctiluca. This millimeter-long single-celled organism thrives in the deep, cold, nutrient-rich waters of the Salish Sea, especially during the long days of summer, which give it time to recharge. It operates according to circadian rhythms, growing brighter as the night goes on. Our guide was Kelly Yelverton, a Colorado native who'd been in the San Juans since 2010. She was assisted by Caleb Johnson, a native of Beaumont, Texas , who'd been traveling with his wife in a van for the past five years, doing seasonal work and hiking. They'd just been in Colorado for the wildflower season and planned to go next to North Dakota to work a beet harvest. “We just work different gigs and try to spend as much time outside as we can,” he told me.

As the sky darkened, the water began to glitter. There are many things you can do with a paddle to create different patterns, but my favorite was plunging it in vertically and watching plumes of dense sparkles emanate from the shaft. I felt like Poseidon. We paddled to dark waters near the privately owned Dinner Island, where two gorgeous modernist homes sat. There the water was so full of light it was as if we'd entered another world. We saw flashes as fish passed beneath our kayaks, then a bright column that rose to the surface. It was a harbor seal cavorting around us. Rain fell for a few minutes; each drop transformed into light as it hit the water.

A view of the inlet from the village of Eastsound

Buck Bay Shellfish Company, on Orcas Island

The scent of rain lingered as we paddled back. Kelly told us about being out with guests during the Perseid meteor shower, the drama downstairs matched by the fireworks above. “There were a lot of sore necks,” she recalled. Before we wrapped up, she took us to a secluded cove and pointed out the house where Stan Lee, the Marvel Comics legend, had once lived. “I like to think,” she said, “that walking this land gave him the inspiration for some of the superheroes he created.”

Besides the summer wildfires and ubiquitous burn bans, the biggest change I observed in the San Juans was to the ferry system. Actually, the ferries themselves—battered, hulking brutes, some dating to the Johnson administration, that glide ploddingly along the Puget Sound, their white masses contrasting with the blues and greens of the landscape—have scarcely changed at all. But the system, the largest in America, has grown increasingly decrepit and unreliable. “I've exhausted myself reaching out to our senators and congresspeople, telling them, ‘We have a problem here,’ ” Karl Bruno told me. “But it's hard to get noticed.”

Alex Erdekian

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Charlie Hobbs

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The system had been strained for years due to defunding of the Washington Department of Transportation and mandatory ship retirements, but worker attrition during the pandemic made things worse. And yet one could argue that there is a silver lining in all of this. The islands' inaccessibility has always been central to their charm, and a reason for their relative imperviousness to change. If you made the fleet bigger and faster, would the San Juans still be the San Juans? This is a place that is made for slowing down, getting away from it all, savoring the simple pleasures, having nowhere to be anytime soon. And we need these kinds of places more than ever these days.

After our last ferry ride, my family spent a few hours on Fidalgo Island, where my childhood hometown of Anacortes is located. We walked across Deception Pass Bridge , the magnificent set of cantilevered spans that soars over the strait separating Fidalgo from Whidbey Island , before heading down to Bowman Bay, where my mom said I'd kayaked for the first time, to stroll along one more rocky beach before driving to Seattle . My children swung pieces of bullwhip kelp that had washed ashore and discovered another driftwood assemblage, for which they began constructing an addition. You can find the best, perfectly round, flat skipping stones on these beaches, so we collected a bunch and I schooled them on technique. The sun was setting as I maneuvered the car out of the parking lot, feeling grateful that this northwestern corner of Washington is still a place that fresh generations of children come to, instantly make new best friends, and set about the important work of building forts and fairy houses.

A driftwood fort on South Beach, on San Juan Island, looking out at the Strait of Juan de Fuca

Goods for sale at the Market Chef

Where to stay

San Juan Island

Lakedale , 10 minutes from Friday Harbor, has grown up from its ’60s roots as a hippie campground. Families love the log cabins, canvas cottages, and yurts with Scandi-style interiors; the tranquil main lodge is adults-only. From playing life-size chess and tie-dyeing T-shirts in the activity tent to pop-up concerts at the edge of the lake, there is no shortage of fun things to do on-site.

Orcas Island

The Outlook Inn with 40 bright guest rooms has lived many lives since it was a general store in the 1890s, but one thing that has never changed is its great location. A prime address on Main Street in Eastsound puts it about 15 minutes from both the ferry landing and Moran State Park and a short walk from the town's finest shops and restaurants, with amazing views of Fishing Bay.

Multiple islands

For large groups, travelers seeking extra space (bikes and kayaks take up lots of room), or gourmands wanting to prepare their own alfresco feasts using the area's amazing summer bounty, a rental house is a great way to go. Northwest Island Escapes , a locally owned and staffed management company, has the San Juans' largest selection, with marvelous properties on Orcas, San Juan, and Lopez.

The house salad at Coho, a restaurant in Friday Harbor

A server at the Market Chef, an artisanal sandwich shop and provisions store in Friday Harbor

Where to eat

Start your day at Bakery San Juan with a cheese claw, a cinnamon roll, or a pain au levain batard that will bring a tear to your eye. It's one of the finest bakeries you will ever patronize. No joke. Since 2019, chef Ryan Lockhart has helmed the kitchen of historic Craftsman Coho Restaurant near the Friday Harbor ferry landing, serving highly regarded dishes that elevate the local ingredients. Forest hideaway Duck Soup calls itself a country restaurant, which is borne out by the rustic environs. But its artfully plated dishes, which interpret the Pacific Northwest through a global lens, will appeal to gourmands.

Beat the crowds that gather early on the porch of Eastsound favorite Brown Bear Baking and score a flaky kouign-amann and a morning bun. One of the most pleasant eateries in all the islands, Buck Bay Shellfish Farm offers a seafood-heavy menu (halibut ceviche, salmon sliders), tasty Washington wines, and a lovely alfresco setting. Located on the edge of Eastsound, Houlme serves inventive pizzas, Mediterranean-tinged small plates, and natural wines in its dining room or backyard.

Surrounded by heirloom plum orchards, the restaurant with water views at 1869 farmhouse Inn at Ship Bay sources as much as it can from Orcas—including the lamb it serves with quince grown on-site. While not fussy, it's about as fancy as the island gets. After a hike in Moran State Park, stop at Sugar Shack for tasty waffle cones from Lopez Island Creamery—the fruit flavors, like wild blackberry, are especially memorable.

Where to play

One of most seasoned operators in the region, Discovery Sea Kayaks offers sunset and bioluminescent tours, half- and full-day paddles, and overnight experiences. If you're traveling with kids, stop by The Farm at Krystal Acres , a 40-acre family-run on the west side of the island to feed the fleecy critters, then hit the shop to purchase alpaca socks, beanies, yarn, and more. Lime Kiln Point State Park , on the western edge of San Juan, is one of the best places on Earth to watch whales from land and an example of the numerous great state parks in this part of Washington.

In addition to orcas, you may see migrating baleen whales, not to mention seals and sea lions, bald eagles, and more, in the company of warm and knowledgeable guides at Western Prince Whale Watching Adventures . What's especially wonderful about The Whale Museum in Friday Harbor is the layered cultural history it tells about these remarkable mammals, as well as the intense pressures human activity has placed on them. Amazing for kids.

Orcas's best hiking and swimming can be found within 5,250-acre Moran State Park . There's an easy 2.7 mile hike around Cascade Lake and pedal boats and SUPs to rent. A bit higher up, Mountain Lake has more challenging trails and kayaks. For panoramic views, head to the lookout tower at the summit of Mount Constitution. Master potter Jerry Weatherman has turned out stunning ceramics with island-inspired shapes and glazes at his studio and showroom, Olga Pottery , since 1979.

This article appeared in the May/June 2024 issue of Condé Nast Traveler. Subscribe to the magazine here .

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SWT Grant Programs

State of Washington Tourism (SWT) offers multiple grant opportunities for tourism stakeholders. In addition to recurring grant programs such as Tourism Sustainability and Rural Tourism Support , SWT will also administer funds for exciting new grant programs in 2024-2025. These programs are made possible thanks to $3.5 million in Economic Development Administration (EDA) block grant funds from the Washington State Department of Commerce.

Eligible entities: Local governments, tribes, chambers of commerce, destination organizations, and other nonprofit organizations that support travel and tourism are welcome to apply for this grant. Note: Only tribal destinations/communities are eligible for tribal-focused grants.

Applications: Grant application periods open throughout the year. Once open, applicants can apply for individual grant programs via a secure online portal. Successful applicants will be notified within three weeks of the application closing date. View the WizeHive application portal FAQ here .

Webinars: SWT will hold webinars for each grant in the weeks leading up to the application period. The webinars will cover how to apply and the criteria by which the applications will be judged, along with providing more in-depth descriptions of the grant. An overview webinar was held on Dec. 13, 2023. A PDF version is also available.

See application dates and browse all SWT grant opportunities below. For questions, please contact Tamara Rice at  [email protected] .

Rural Tourism Marketing and Production

Rural Tourism Marketing and Production Grants will help communities create the assets they need to promote their destination to travelers to generate overnight stays and stimulate visitor spending. This grant supports rural and underserved communities. Tourism stakeholders may request up to $50,000 in grant funding for content creation for blog posts and articles, as well as the production of video and image assets. Assets may include photos, videos, and written content, as well as usage rights for the applicant and SWT. View the Webinar .

Application Period: Currently closed

Sports Incentivization

The Sports Incentivization Grants are intended to help nonprofit entities incentivize NEW sports tournaments/competitions that will bring overnight visitors to a destination to spur economic activity. Successful applicants will be able to reserve dollars from a pool to help pay down room nights or provide amenities pending a successful bid. If a bid is ultimately unsuccessful, those dollars will go back into the pool and be available to other applicants according to a ranked waitlist. The max grant ask is $30,000. View the Webinar .

Rural Tourism Research and Data

The primary purpose of the Rural Tourism Research and Data Grants is to discover and share critical information that can improve the efficiency, sustainability, and overall economic impact of the local tourism industry. It may also aim to support projects that analyze tourism trends, visitor behavior, cultural exchange, environmental impacts, and other topics that help inform policy decisions and support tourism growth in a region. Tourism stakeholders may request up to $25,000. View the Webinar .

Arts and Culture

The Arts and Culture grants are intended for the promotion and management of art shows, concerts, festivals and events, as well as museums, historic sites, and cultural institutes that drive overnight stays and visitor spending in destination communities. These grants aim to boost the local economy by attracting overnight visitors who are interested in experiencing the artistic and cultural offerings of a people and a place while mitigating any negative impacts on residents, social services, and public infrastructure. The max grant ask is $30,000. View the webinar.

Indigenous Tourism Marketing and Production

Indigenous Tourism Marketing and Production grants will help tribal communities create the assets they need to promote their destination to travelers to generate overnight stays and stimulate visitor spending. Tourism stakeholders may request up to $50,000 in grant funding for content creation for blog posts and articles, as well as production of video and image assets. Grant applicants need to budget for long-term usage rights for their organization and SWT. View the webinar.

Rural Tourism Support Program

The RTS program focuses on long-term, sustainable destination development for underserved communities. It implements a community tourism approach that includes stakeholder surveys, community workshops, priority projects, and strategic planning from a steering committee. Upon completion of the program, stakeholders are encouraged to apply for financial assistance from SWT and other funding sources to support priority projects. View the webinar.

Technical Assistance

The Technical Assistance Grant will subsidize the cost of industry-specific expertise for tourism-related projects that stimulate economic development for destination communities. Eligible projects for grant funding may include design plans for tourism infrastructure, marketing expertise, workforce training programs, and other consulting services for tourism pursuits. Washington-based tourism stakeholders may request up to $15,000 in grant funding based on project eligibility. View the webinar.

Application Period: April 15 – May 14, 2024

Learn More & Apply

Tourism Regeneration

This grant is intended to foster safer, more inclusive, and sustainable visitor experiences across the state and drive overnight visitation to rural and underserved communities. Project eligibility for Tourism Regeneration Grants ranges significantly from pedestrian and bicyclist safety along roadways to tourism marketing to disaster and climate adaptation planning. They may also include but are not limited to outdoor recreation, business and creative districts, and main street associations in Washington. Max grant ask is $50,000.

Application Period: Sept. 2 – 30, 2024

Tribal Rural Tourism Support Program

The Tribal RTS program focuses on long-term, sustainable destination development for tribal communities. It implements a community tourism approach that includes stakeholder surveys, community workshops, priority projects, and strategic planning from a steering committee. Upon completion of the program, stakeholders are encouraged to apply for financial assistance from SWT and other funding sources to support priority projects identified in the community workshops.

Application Period: Oct. 1 – 31, 2024

Tourism Sustainability

The Tourism Sustainability Grant is a recurring grant offered by SWT that aims to foster safer, more inclusive, and sustainable visitor experiences in Washington. Applicants may request up to $30,000 in grant funding based on project eligibility. Project eligibility may include capital projects, new festivals and events, outdoor recreation, wayfinding improvements, and more.

• Puget Sound
• Traffic Lab

Washington ferry fares increase May 1 for peak season

The state ferry system’s annual peak-season surcharge goes into effect Wednesday.

The surcharge will increase fares for vehicles on all routes by 25%, except for vehicles traveling from Anacortes to Lopez, Shaw and Orcas islands, as well as Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. Those fares will increase by 35%.

For example, a one-way trip on the Seattle/Bainbridge Island route will see an increase of about $4 to $22.25 for a standard-sized car and driver, according to Washington State Ferries.

The surcharge applies to single vehicles crossing Puget Sound but does not apply to passenger or multi-ride fares. Senior passengers ride for half price, and youth ages 18 and under ride free on all routes.

The peak-season pricing will continue through September, covering the busiest months of the year for ferry travel.

Vehicle fares are available online at  wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/fares .

Fares vary by route, depending on location, sailing time and other factors.

For Port Townsend/Coupeville and Anacortes/San Juan Islands routes, travelers can reserve their spot on the ferry for the summer season through Washington State Ferries’ website.

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