best places in washington state to visit

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

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

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

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Key takeaways

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

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

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

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

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

Space Needle

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

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

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

Pike Place Market

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

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

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

T-Mobile Park

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

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

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

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

Seattle Gum Wall

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

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

Oldest Starbucks Store

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

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

Seattle Art Museum

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

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

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

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

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

These cities are great places to visit in Washington State

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

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

Walla Walla

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

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

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

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

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

Washington State National Parks

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

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

They would all make great weekend getaways from Seattle .

North Cascades National Park

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

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

Mount Rainier National Park

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

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

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

Olympic National Park

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

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

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

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

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

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

Fort Vancouver National Historical Site

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

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

San Juan Islands

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

Each island is different. Below are my favorites.

Orcas Island

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

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

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

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

San Juan Island

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

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

Lopez Island

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

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

Don’t miss these other Washington State islands

Bainbridge island.

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

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

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

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

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

Whidbey Island

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

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

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

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

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

Jetty Island

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

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

State parks and other natural sites

Snoqualmie falls.

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

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

Deception Pass State Park

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

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

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

Lake Chelan

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

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

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

Columbia River Gorge

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

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

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

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

Mount Baker

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

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

Palouse Falls State Park 

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

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

Cape Disappointment

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

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

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

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

Wonderful towns to visit in Washington State

Port townsend.

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

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

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

Leavenworth

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other things to do in Washington State

Museum of flight.

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

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

Grand Coulee Dam

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

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

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

Bing Crosby House

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

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

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

When to visit Washington State

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

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

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

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

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

Final thoughts on the best sites in Washington State

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

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

More articles to help you plan your trip to Washington State

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

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

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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

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25 Best Places to Visit in Washington State

Last Updated By VacationIdea Staff on March 18, 2024

Kitsap Peninsula

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

Spokane, WA

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

Port Angeles

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

Port Townsend

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

Walla Walla

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

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

Friday Harbor, San Juan Island

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

Leavenworth

Next read: Washington Resorts

Yakima Valley

Wine connoisseurs can enjoy tasting the produce of dozens of wineries in the Yakima Valley, most of which offer tastings and cellar tours. You can also go on the Spirits and Hops Trail, or take the children to pick fruit and berries during harvest time. You can visit the Yakima Valley Museum and the Hillside Desert Botanical Gardens, or add a cultural element to your visit by attending a performance of the Yakima Symphony Orchestra or a show at the Capitol Theatre, 4 th Street Theatre or The Seasons Performance Hall in downtown Yakima.

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

Ellensburg, Washington

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bainbridge Island

If the weather is less than perfect you can spend your time enjoying the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum and the Kids Discovery Museum . You can also enjoy wine tastings and visit wineries, or simply stroll through Downtown Winslow which is packed with cute shops and many restaurants and coffee bars.

North Cascades National Park

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

Point Roberts

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

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

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

Olympic National Park

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

Orcas Island

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

Skagit Valley

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

Vashon Island, Washington

Vashon Island hosts a fun Strawberry Festival each year in July where you can taste everything remotely related to strawberries and join in the parade.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The 10 most wonderful places to visit in Washington State

Apr 1, 2024 • 8 min read

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

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

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

1. Leavenworth

Best for Germanic culture

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

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

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

2. Walla Walla

Best for wine-tasting

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

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

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

3. Hoh Rainforest

Best for forested walks

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

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

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

4. Winthrop

Best for cross-country skiing

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

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

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

5. Paradise

Best for alpine hikes

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

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

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

6. Port Townsend

Best for history and architecture

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

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

7. Mt St Helens

Best for an outdoor geology lesson

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

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

8. Stehekin

Best for peace and quiet

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

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

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

9. Orcas Island

Best for families

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

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

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

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

10. Fremont

Best for mavericks, nonconformists and free spirits

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

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

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

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

This article was first published August 2022 and updated April 2024

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10 Best Places to Visit in Washington State

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

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

10. Lake Chelan [SEE MAP]

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

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

9. Columbia River Gorge [SEE MAP]

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

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

8. Spokane [SEE MAP]

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

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

7. Snoqualmie Falls [SEE MAP]

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

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

6. North Cascades National Park [SEE MAP]

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

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

5. San Juan Islands [SEE MAP]

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

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

4. Olympic National Park [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

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

2. Seattle [SEE MAP]

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

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

1. Mount Rainier National Park [SEE MAP]

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

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

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July 8, 2019 at 8:46 pm

Port Gamble is an amazing place!!

September 2, 2018 at 11:25 pm

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

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The 12 most beautiful places in Washington

Washington state is a land of extremes. Year-round snowy peaks are visible from downtown Seattle. Months of cloudy gray skies create lush forests saturated in green on the west side. To the east, the Cascade mountains capture so much moisture that the landscape abruptly turns to arid and semi-arid desert. And statewide, the summer sun stretches on so late into the evening that you can trek without a headlamp until after 10 pm. These extremes create some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, with enviable hiking, boating, and wildlife spotting. As a local, I’m always happy to highlight the most beautiful places in Washington that you won’t be able to see anywhere else.

Snoqualmie Falls

Good news: Washington has a knock-your-socks-off waterfall. Even better news: It's just 45 minutes from downtown Seattle. Thanks to its location, Snoqualmie Falls is an easy add-on to any Seattle trip. Walk from the parking lot to the overlook, where frothy white-capped water charges off a cliffside into a 270-foot drop, disappearing into the mist below. Then trek the short but steep Snoqualmie Falls Trail down to the bottom of the falls and crane your neck back for a real sense of its size.

The falls aren’t just pretty, they’re practical. You can learn about their power-generating history at Snoqualmie Falls Hydroelectric Plant and Museum, or stop by the gift shop for a souvenir. Add in a little pampering by booking time in the sauna and steam rooms at The Salish Lodge , the lovely building on top of the falls.

Mount Rainier National Park

"The mountain is out!" locals call out to each other on a clear day. That tells you just how much Mount Rainier, also known by its indigenous name Tahoma, means to Washingtonians. Even though it’s visible from hundreds of miles away, hiking in Mount Rainier National Park is the best way to experience the active volcano in all its glory.

For the easiest views, consider taking a quarter-mile walk from the Sunrise Visitor Center to Emmons Vista , where you can see Mount Rainier and the river-filled valleys below in all their glory. For those willing to hoof it a little farther, the 5.5-mile Skyline Trail Loop will make you feel close enough to Rainier to touch it. Want a once-in-a-lifetime backcountry adventure? Loop the peak on the 93-mile Wonderland Trail . For a treat, close out the day with a ride on the Crystal Mountain Gondola (just outside the park) and have a cocktail at Washington’s highest-elevation restaurant, Summit House .

Recommended tours and activities

Washington’s waterways via ferry

Fun fact: Washington has the largest ferry fleet in the entire United States—and the prettiest, if you ask me. Just look at our postcards and local artworks and see just how many spotlight the ferries in action crossing the Salish Sea, a section of the Pacific that runs from British Columbia all the way to Olympia.

One of the easiest ferries to grab is from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island , an artsy, walkable community opposite Elliott Bay . Once you set off, head out onto the open-air deck for some of the loveliest Seattle skyline views—and then grab some local chowder at the cafeteria indoors. If you’ve got more time to wander, take the longer ferry ride from Anacortes for a visit to the San Juan Islands (see below) or drive to Port Angeles , where you can take a ferry to Victoria, Canada .

This might be as close as you get to Scandinavia in the Pacific Northwest. Located 20 minutes from downtown Bainbridge, Poulsbo is known as “Little Norway” for its history of Norwegian settlers. You still get a sense of that history through colorful murals that dress up the town’s alleyways, timber-framed buildings that look airlifted from Europe, and of course, Sluy’s Bakery , where you can order Danish pastries, Finnish ribbons, and traditional Norwegian Fatiggman cookies.

But the reason Poulsbo makes our list for most beautiful is its outstanding view over Liberty Bay from the Waterfront Park . On a clear day, the majestic Olympic mountains tower over the surrounding hills and Mount Rainier dominates the view to the southeast with marina boats bobbing in the foreground. Bring a picnic of baked goods or grab a coffee from Poulsbohemian to catch a sunset over the water.

San Juan Island(s)

First, a point of clarity: San Juan Island (singular) is just one island in the greater collection of San Juan Islands (plural). It’s also one of the most welcoming spots for visitors and makes for a charming weekend getaway. Take a 90-minute ferry from Anacortes to Friday Harbor , a bustling little town right off the ferry dock where most of the island’s lodging is located. Once you’ve dropped off your bags, get back out on the water with an orca-spotting tour and guided exploration of the local waterways. Not feeling another boat ride? You might be able to spot the orcas from Lime Kiln Point State Park , also called “Whale Watch Park.” Other can’t-be-missed views include the top of Mt. Finlayson (a short hike up), where you’ll be able to see other islands such as Shaw and Lopez to the north and east, and the Olympics to the south. Or kick back and take in the Friday Harbor marina from Cease and Desist beer house, which has local Washington brews on tap.

If you’re hooked on the islands and want to see more, interisland ferries are available to Shaw, Lopez, and Orcas island.

North Cascades National Park

This one’s for the adventurers. North Cascades National Park only has one major road, a couple of hard-to-reach lodgings, and pretty much zero cell service. It’s truly rugged out here—but it’s worth it to experience the sublime surrounding peaks, 300-plus glaciers, countless alpine lakes, and 400 miles of trails. And hiking is the name of the game here. For newbie hikers, the 4.4-mile trip to Blue Lake won’t leave you too huffy—only the views will take your breath away. If you’ve been building up your hiking endurance, it’s hard to beat the epic glacial scenery of the 12-mile, 4,000-foot-elevation-gain hike to Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm . (Sorry to your quads in advance.)

If you’re not into hiking, let your car do the climbing. The scenic North Cascades Highway provides plenty of photo ops. Stop at the overlook for Diablo Lake , which shines a milky turquoise in the sun thanks to glacial sediment, or park and gaze in awe at multi-peaked Liberty Bell Mountain at Washington Pass . If you’ve got the time, continue the journey along the Cascade Loop Drive toward Chelan and consider a side trip to the park town Stehekin , which is only accessible by boat (via a daily ferry) or plane ride. Just 100 or so people live there year-round, but it’s a popular home base for hikes and has a much-beloved bakery that offers shuttles from the ferry dock.

Hurricane Ridge (Olympic National Park)

Olympic National Park is so diverse and enormous that it wouldn’t be right to call out a single spot, so we’ve split it up into a few key places. First up, the spectacular Hurricane Ridge —the most epic place to see miles of mountain layers—and it’s totally accessible by car during the summer season. Drive 17 miles from sea level to nearly over 5,000 feet, where even the parking lot grants 180-degree views of surrounding (and often snow-capped) peaks.

Take a quick three-mile round-trip hike up Hurricane Hill, where your view expands to 360 degrees with views of Victoria, BC in the distance. For fewer crowds, try Sunrise Hill, which is a little longer at five miles and gains 1,000 feet but offers similarly impressive vistas.

Hoh Rain Forest (Olympic National Park)

Another Olympic National Park highlight, this time on the west end, the Hoh Rain Forest is a moss-covered fairytale dream of a place. Get your bearings on the 0.75-mile Hall of Mosses interpretative walk, which has informative signs explaining the biology behind all the swirling shades of green. Extend that walk with the 1.2-mile Spruce Nature Trail and look for giant nurse logs—dead logs that become fertile soil for new trees.

For a longer adventure, hike as much or as little of the 37-mile round-trip Hoh River Trail as you want. You’ll get lovely mosses, impressively large Western red cedar, Douglas fir, and big-leaf maple, all while rambling along the namesake river. The trail ends after a steep climb (and a rickety climb down a ladder) to the massive Blue Glacier , which regularly mesmerizes hikers with its aqua-tinged crevasses.

The Wilderness Coast (Olympic National Park)

Mountain peaks, mossy forests—this Olympics highlight has another incredible and entirely different landscape: the coast. Every mile of the Olympic Coast offers something new, from sandy beaches to rocky capes to a massive natural gap in a cliffside (aptly called Hole-in-the-Wall ) that you can walk through at low tide. Check out the utterly spectacular number of haystack rock formations that extend from the water, often appearing and disappearing in coastal mist. Along the way, you'll spot in-the-wild aquarium creatures in the tidal zone, like vibrant green and pink anemones and purple starfish.

One warning: Only some of the coast is easily accessed from parking areas, such as Rialto Beach and Lake Ozette . Other spots require consulting tide charts and a strong sense of balance. (Sailors nicknamed the coast “the graveyard of the Pacific” for a reason, so respect those tides and step lively!)

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Three words: Still-active volcano. Mount St. Helens made headlines in 1980 for erupting in a blast that left behind an unreal moonscape. As if that isn’t incredible enough, this site transforms in the summer when a carpet of wildflowers rises out of the gray soil.

Make your first stop Bridge View Point , which gives you a good overview of just how massive the 150-square-mile destruction zone really was. Then head to the Forest Learning Center , where you’ll get views of the valley that became flooded with mud and debris. But your most impressive view will be from the Johnston Ridge Observatory , where you can see into the mountain’s impressive crater with your naked eye. If you get here around mid-July and August, you’ll get to see the wildflowers at their peak. Take a walk along the Boundary Trail to get a cinematic close-up of the blooms busting out their colors.

Coulee Corridor National Scenic Byway

If all your images of Washington involve misty mountains, let us introduce you to the east side of the state dominated by farmland and desert. It even has rattlesnakes! (Hey, the Southwest can’t have all the fun.) The 150-mile Coulee Corridor has all that desert drama thanks to canyons carved by ancient glacial floods.

Breathe in the scent of sagebrush and make a stop at Sun Lakes Dry Falls State Park . Here you'll spot a jutting cliffside with a carved lip stretch 3.5 miles. What you're actually looking at is a now-dry waterfall, once the largest in the world. Just south of Dry Falls, walk a short 1.5-mile trail to see the Lenore Lake Caves that were carved from the same glacial floods. And keep your eyes on the sky—the Audubon society has its own nickname for the byway: “The Great Washington State Birding Trail.”

Steptoe Butte State Park

Picture gentle, rolling hills covered in bobbing wheat fields. This is the Palouse region, on the east side of the state. Its rolling terrain was formed tens of thousands of years ago with wind-blown dust and silt. And the tippy top of Steptoe Butte State Park juts out of this otherwise rolling turf.

Take a narrow road up to the 3,612-foot high point of Steptoe Butte. From here, you can see for nearly 200 miles on a clear day and watch those rippling hills, which become even more apparent—and magnificent—from up high. If you visit in the spring, you’ll find the hills covered in a lush, rolling green. Later in the summer, they turn tan and look almost like sand dunes. Also, look west. It might not look much different, but all that land is new—at least in geologic terms. Steptoe Butte marks what was once the edge of the North American continent.

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Top 12 Washington State Attractions

Pierre Leclerc Photography/Getty Images

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

Explore Olympic National Park

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

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

Drive Along Mount Baker Highway

TripSavvy / Chris VR

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

Hike (or Drive) in Mount Rainier National Park

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

Drive the Coulee Corridor

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

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

Noah Krayenhagen / TripSavvy

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

See an Active Volcano

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

Shop at Pike Place Market

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

Immerse Yourself in "Modern" Seattle

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

Cross the Puget Sound by Ferry

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

Relax at Spokane's Riverfront Park

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

Admire Incredible Glass Art

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

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

Marvel at the Science Behind Aviation at the Museum of Flight

Cord Rodefeld/Flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0 

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

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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.

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

As always Great blog

So much peace Enjoy

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

Great things to do in washington.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Will try to do same Thanks for sharing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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12 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Washington State

From mountains to coastline: 12 of the most beautiful places to visit in washington state..

Beautiful Washington State offers an abundance of breathtaking destinations to discover and explore. We’ve curated a list of the most beautiful places to visit in Washington State.

Washington State is a top destination for travelers seeking natural beauty. From the rugged coastline and scenic beaches to the majestic mountains and serene forests, the state offers a wide variety of picturesque locations to explore.

Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in the beauty of the national parks, scenic byways, and many outdoor activities they can find here. The beauty of the Evergreen State is sure to leave a lasting impression on every traveler.

12 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Washington State (from a Local)

In this post, we will be listing some of the most scenic places to visit in Washington State. This beautiful state is a nature lovers paradise, filled with magic and wonder.

Please note that some of these locations may have seasonal closures or special hours, so it’s a good idea to check with each one before planning your trip.

Lake Crescent

Lake Crescent is an enchanting glacial lake located in the heart of Olympic National Park. The breathtaking glacial lake is approximately 12 miles long and over 600 feet deep, making it one of the deepest lakes in the United States.

One of the most striking features of Lake Crescent is its crystal-clear, blue-green water, which is so clear that you can see the rocks and logs at the bottom of the lake from the surface. The lake is surrounded by dense forests of fir and hemlock trees, which give way to rugged mountains in the distance.

There are several scenic pullouts along the shore of the lake that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, as well as hiking trails that lead to even more stunning vistas. On a clear day, the reflections of the surrounding mountains in the still waters of the lake create a truly magical sight.

One of the best places to appreciate the lake’s beauty is the historic Lake Crescent Lodge , which has been welcoming guests since 1916. From here, you can take in sweeping views of the lake and the surrounding peaks while enjoying a meal or a drink on the lodge’s patio. You can also rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.

Another great spot to enjoy Lake Crescent is from the summit of Mount Storm King. This challenging four-mile hike takes you up 4,500 feet, but the stunning views of the lake and the Olympic Mountains make it well worth the effort.

For a more relaxed experience, head to Devil’s Punchbowl, which is accessible via the Spruce Railroad Trail. This short hike is about 1 mile long and leads to the popular swimming destination. This is our favorite place to enjoy Lake Crescent!

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

Did you know that the tulip was seen as a symbol of paradise on Earth? One of the most beautiful sights in Washington State is the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival.

This festival is held each spring and draws visitors from all over the world to see the breathtaking fields of colorful tulips in bloom. With miles of vibrant flowers stretching as far as the eye can see, it’s an unforgettable sight that’s not to be missed.

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival features four farms: RoozenGaarde, Tulip Town, Tulip Valley Farms, and Garden Rosalyn.

Leavenworth

Leavenworth is a hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest. Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, this quaint town is known for its Bavarian-themed architecture and scenic mountain views.

It is great to visit in any season but the best time to visit is during the winter months when the town transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive decor, colorful lights, and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

It is a great place to bring the whole family so they can partake in the remarkable Christmas magic of this small town, and one of the most popular places to visit in Washington.

Picture Lake

Picture Lake is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Washington. In the North Cascades National Park, in the Mount Baker Area, you can follow a short path to get to Picture Lake. The lake is situated at an altitude of 5,500 feet and surrounded by towering mountains, and offers breathtaking views.

Picture Lake is one of the most photographed vistas in the US. What makes this vista point so special is that you can see a reflection of Mount Shuksan in the lake!

During hte summer, you can find beautiful wildflowers that also add to the beauty of this beautiful destination. Swimming and boating are not allowed, and you do need a valid recreation pass.

Hurricane Ridge

Located in the Olympic National Park, Hurricane Ridge is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Washington State. Not only can you find majestiv mountain views and scenic hiking trails, but Hurricane Ridge is filled with a diverse range of wildlife such as deer and elk.

Hurricane Ridge is a beautiful place to visit year-round, but we believe the best times to visit are during the spring when the wildflowers are in full bloom and during winter when the mountains transform into a snowy heaven.

The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center is the perfect place to enjoy the incredible views of the Olympic Mountains without having to hike for hours.

Diablo Lake

Diablo Lake is a captivating glacial lake in the North Cascades. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, boating, camping, and even swimming in this popular destination.

Diablo Lake is known for its striking blue-green waters which are fed by glacial runoff. The enchanting turquoise color is best seen on sunny dates during the summer during the period of glacial melting. The wildflowers are also in full bloom during this time.

While there are many popular hikes at Diablo Lake to explore, the lake can also be seen from the overlooks and viewpoints along the North Cascades Highway (State Route 20). There are several pullouts and scenic overlooks that offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, for those who may not want to hike.

Snoqualmie Falls

Snoqualmie Falls is one of the most picturesque places to explore in Washington State. The waterfall is 270 feet and easily accessible.

The falls are beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring when the snow is melting and the water flow is at its peak. The waterfall is also lit up at night, making it a great place to visit after dark.

You can find free parking that leads to an observation area that’s open daily from dawn until dusk. Pets are allowed at Snoqualmie Falls on a leash. In addition to the falls themselves, Snoqualmie Falls is also home to the Salish lodge and a gift shop.

Cape Flattery

Cape Flattery is located at the northwesternmost point in the contiguous United States on the Olympic Peninsula. Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, visitors will delight at the magnificent rock formations, sea stacks, and wildlife that they will find here.

You can visit Cape Flattery all year long, but the weather is best during the summer months. To access the viewing platform at Cape Flattery, there is a short 3/4 mile hike from the parking lot. Whale watching is a fun activity that you can also do at Cape Flattery, particularly during the colder months of the year.

Cape Flattery is located in the Makah Reservation, close to the town of Neah Bay. You can visit the Makah Cultural and Research Center to learn more about the tribe and its history.

HOH Rainforest

The Hoh Rainforest is a temperate rainforest that is home to a variety of animal species and known for its lush greenery, sporting trees such as Douglas fir, Sitka spruces, western hemlocks, and more.

Head to the visitor center and choose from the 3 main hikes to begin to explore. The Hall of Mosses Trail is 8/10’s of a mile with an elevation gain of 500 feet, and is the most popular and famous to explore. It is absolutely stunning and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Washington State.

You can also choose to hike the Spruce Nature Trail, which is 1.2 miles and rated easy, or the Hoh River Trail which is anywhere from 1-20 miles, and rated easy to moderate.

Olympic National Park Beaches

The Olympic National Park Beaches are one of the most beautiful places to visit in Washington State. With miles of coastline, these beaches provide stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, and one of the best ways to get away from city life.

One of the best things about this coastline is that it is relatively undeveloped. There are no large hotels or restaurants, and the only thing that interrupts the sound of the waves is the occasional bird call. As a result, visitors can feel like they have truly escaped from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

There are numerous beaches on Washington’s coast, and they are all stunning so we couldn’t choose just one specific beach for this list. Some of the most beautiful beaches you can find are La Push (“It’s La Push, baby!”), Second Beach, Ruby Beach, Rialto Beach, Shi Shi Beach, Kalaloch Beach, and more.

Deception Pass Bridge

Deception Pass Bridge connects Fidalgo Island to Whidbey Island and is located within Deception Pass State Park. The bridge has stunning views of the surrounding area, including the rugged coastline, the turquoise waters of Deception Pass and the nearby islands, which are dotted with lush green forests and picturesque beaches.

The area around Deception Pass Bridge is popular with tourists and locals alike, and there are many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. The bridge itself is also a popular destination for photographers and sightseers, and there are several viewpoints and scenic overlooks that offer great views of the bridge and the surrounding area.

Make sure to take some extra time to visit both Anacortes and Whidbey Island to make this visit an extra special one.

Related post: Things to do in Oak Harbor

Related post: 14 Romantic Things to do on Whidbey Island Getaway

The state of Washington is truly a wondrous place with countless scenic locations to explore, and we feel incredibly grateful to call this breathtaking destination our home. There are many more beautiful places to visit in Washington State to discover and explore, but these are the ones that we love the most!

Which of these beautiful places to visit in Washington State is your favorite?

Author: Suzanne

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19 Best Places to Visit in Washington State (Photos+Map)

Washington State is a treasure trove of incredible destinations, offering something for every type of traveler. From vibrant cities to stunning natural landscapes, this diverse state has it all. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or simply want to unwind in a picturesque setting, Washington State has you covered.

In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through the 19 best places to visit in Washington state, showcasing the beauty and attractions each destination has to offer. So, get ready to be inspired and start planning your next adventure in the breathtaking state of Washington.

Table of Contents

Go To Spokane Map

Spokane, located in the evergreen state of Washington, is a vibrant city offering a multitude of outdoor recreation opportunities. From hiking and biking to skiing, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Additionally, the city boasts cultural attractions such as the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture and the Bing Crosby Theater, catering to culture lovers. Riverfront Park is another highlight, featuring a carousel, an IMAX theater, and a gondola ride for an unforgettable experience.

Culinary enthusiasts will delight in the diverse food scene, including farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and cozy coffee shops, making Spokane a great destination for foodies. With something for everyone, from adventure seekers to culture lovers to food enthusiasts, Spokane is a must-visit city in the state of Washington.

2. Lake Chelan

Go To Lake Chelan Map

Nestled in the evergreen state of Washington , Lake Chelan beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its myriad of activities. From scenic hiking trails and exhilarating water sports to tranquil fishing spots, this destination offers something for everyone.

The area is also renowned for its wineries and vineyards, where visitors can unwind with delightful wine tastings.

A leisurely drive along the 50-mile shoreline or a calming boat tour provides captivating views of the surroundings. Additionally, attractions such as Lake Chelan State Park, Echo Ridge Nordic Ski Area, and the family-friendly Slidewaters Waterpark add to the allure of this picturesque locale, making it an ideal choice for both adventure seekers and those seeking relaxation.

3. San Juan Islands

Go To the San Juan Islands Map

Nestled off the coast of Washington state, the San Juan Islands form a breathtaking archipelago celebrated for its picturesque beauty and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors are treated to an array of activities such as kayaking, whale-watching, hiking, and biking against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Northwest.

Notable attractions include Friday Harbor, Lime Kiln Point State Park, and Orcas Island, each offering unique experiences that capture the essence of the region. Boasting panoramic views of the water and mountains, the San Juan Islands are an ideal choice for a rejuvenating weekend escape or an extended vacation, embodying the true spirit of the Evergreen State.

4. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Go To St. Helens National Volcanic Map

Mount St. Helens, which erupted in 1980, has left behind a gradually recovering barren landscape. The Monument boasts several hiking trails, including the Boundary Trail encircling the volcano. At the Johnston Ridge Observatory, visitors can explore the area’s geology and history.

The Visitor Center features exhibits and films illustrating the eruption and area recovery. Spectacular views of the volcano can be enjoyed from viewpoints like Windy Ridge and Harry’s Ridge.

Go To Seattle Map

Seattle, located in the Pacific Northwest, is a vibrant city known for iconic landmarks like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. The Museum of History and Industry offers a glimpse into the city’s rich heritage, while the local food scene showcases fresh seafood from the nearby waters. With stunning views of the Puget Sound and mountains, outdoor enthusiasts can revel in the natural gems .

Easily accessible by plane, Seattle provides a range of accommodations for every budget. Whether it’s urban exploration or enjoying nature, Seattle caters to diverse interests, making it an ideal destination in the Evergreen State.

6. Leavenworth

Go To Leavenworth Map

Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth allures visitors with its small-town charm and breathtaking views. Nature enthusiasts can explore scenic drives, hiking trails, and a plethora of outdoor activities in the surrounding area. The town’s proximity to national parks offers easy access to nature trails and majestic vistas.

Leavenworth’s charming atmosphere and outdoor opportunities make it a must-visit for those who appreciate the Evergreen State’s natural beauty. Additionally, its convenient location provides access to surrounding attractions and national parks, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers.

7. Museum of Flight

Go To the Museum of Flight Map

The Museum of Flight in Seattle provides educational opportunities and stunning views of historic aircraft, appealing to aviation enthusiasts. Visitors can explore exhibits, and learn about aviation history through interactive programs.

Conveniently located near surrounding attractions and outdoor activities, the museum offers accessibility and engagement. With a variety of aircraft and artifacts, it is a must-visit for enthusiasts of aviation history. The museum’s interactive exhibits and educational programs appeal to visitors of all ages, making it an engaging experience for everyone.

8. Museum of Glass, Tacoma

Go To Museum of Glass, Tacoma Map

The Museum of Glass in Tacoma provides educational opportunities and breathtaking views of glassblowing, captivating visitors from all over. Exploring the museum’s exhibits and experiencing live glassblowing demonstrations offer a unique and enriching experience.

Located conveniently, the museum allows easy access to surrounding attractions and outdoor activities , adding to its allure.

Art enthusiasts find delight in the museum’s extensive collection of glass art and engaging educational programs. Additionally, the outdoor art installations and scenic views add to the overall charm of the museum, making it a must-visit destination for those visiting Washington State.

9. North Cascades Highway

Go To North Cascades Highway Map

Exploring the North Cascades Highway reveals breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and access to numerous hiking trails and national parks. The highway’s strategic location provides convenient entry points to state parks, nature trails, and wildlife viewing areas, offering a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

During the summer months, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the North Cascades Highway, taking in the natural wonders and engaging in various outdoor activities.

Whether it’s about capturing picturesque landscapes or embarking on adventurous escapades, the North Cascades Highway is an ideal destination within the evergreen state of Washington.

10. Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

Go To Skagit Valley Tulip Festival Map

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, a popular annual event in April, showcases millions of tulips in bloom with a stunning array of colors and varieties. Visitors can engage in the Tulip Run and Bike Tours while enjoying art shows, live music, and delicious food from vendors.

Located in Mount Vernon, Washington, the festival is surrounded by other attractions including the Roozengaarde Tulip Fields and the Skagit Riverwalk Park. Nestled amidst such natural beauty, the festival offers a delightful experience for nature enthusiasts and photography lovers alike.

11. Winthrop

Go To Winthrop Map

Nestled in the Methow Valley, Winthrop exudes a charming Western vibe and offers an array of outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rustic allure of the town while exploring local shops and galleries or embarking on a picturesque drive along the North Cascades Highway.

Winthrop hosts popular annual events like the Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival and the Methow Valley Chamber Music Festival, adding to its vibrant ambiance. Additionally, the town’s proximity to attractions like the North Cascades National Park, Lake Chelan, and the Columbia River Gorge makes it a hub for exploration and adventure.

12. Palouse Falls

Go To Palouse Falls Map

Tumbling 198 feet into a breathtaking canyon, Palouse Falls is a natural wonder nestled in Eastern Washington. The cascading water creates a mesmerizing display of rock formations, offering an awe-inspiring experience for visitors.

Hiking to the top unveils a panoramic view, while a scenic drive through the area showcases the falls’ beauty. Photography enthusiasts and nature lovers find solace in this sacred spot, resonating with local Native American groups. Palouse Falls embodies cultural significance and enthralls all who venture to witness its grandeur.

13. Space Needle, Seattle

Go To Space Needle, Seattle Map

Standing tall at 605 feet, the Space Needle is a Seattle icon that debuted at the 1962 World’s Fair. Visitors can ride to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic Mountains.

The observation deck offers an awe-inspiring vista that includes British Columbia and even the distant Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges.

Additionally, the Space Needle features the revolving restaurant, SkyCity, offering delightful cuisine with stunning views. This iconic landmark showcases the best of the Pacific Northwest’s breathtaking landscape and is a must-visit attraction in the Evergreen State.

14. Olympic National Park

Go To the Olympic National Park Map

Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Olympic National Park captivates visitors with its varied landscapes. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts diverse ecosystems, from rugged coastlines to glacier-capped mountains. Visitors relish outdoor activities like hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Notable attractions include the enchanting Hoh Rainforest, picturesque Hurricane Ridge, and the mesmerizing Sol Duc Falls. Travelers can also take in the stunning vistas on the 17-mile-long Olympic Peninsula Loop Drive. Before planning a visit, it’s advisable to check the park’s website for updated information and seasonal closures.

15. Bellingham

Go To Bellingham Map

Bellingham, situated in northwest Washington, exudes charm with its vibrant downtown area offering diverse shops, restaurants, and breweries. The city is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, surrounded by numerous parks and hiking trails such as Whatcom Falls Park and Larrabee State Park. The youthful energy of Bellingham is accentuated by the presence of Western Washington University.

Moreover, history enthusiasts can explore the region’s past, including the logging industry and Native American culture, at the Whatcom Museum. This lively city is a must-visit destination in the evergreen state, boasting an array of attractions for visitors to explore.

16. Winthrop Washington

Go To Winthrop Washington Map

Tucked away in the Methow Valley, Winthrop exudes old Western charm amidst breathtaking natural surroundings. With the North Cascades National Park and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in its vicinity, the town offers a picturesque escape for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and mountain biking to fishing and skiing, visitors can immerse themselves in a myriad of activities.

Reflecting its Western heritage, Winthrop boasts unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. The town also comes alive with annual events like the Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival and the 49er Days Celebration, making it a must-visit destination in Washington state.

17. Point Roberts

Go To Point Roberts Map

Nestled in the extreme northwest corner of Washington state, Point Roberts is a secluded community accessible only by land from Canada or by private boat or plane.

It boasts a rich history, with evidence of indigenous people dwelling in the area for thousands of years. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in activities like hiking, boating, and fishing while visiting.

Additionally, the community offers various dining options, shops, and accommodations for a comfortable stay. This hidden gem is a must-visit for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in the Pacific Northwest.

18. Bainbridge Island

Go To Bainbridge Island Map

Bainbridge Island, a short ferry ride from downtown Seattle, offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. With a quaint downtown area boasting shops, restaurants, and galleries, the island provides ample exploration opportunities.

Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, and beachcombing. Must-visit attractions on the island include the Bloedel Reserve, Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, and Fay Bainbridge Park. The island’s proximity to downtown Seattle makes it an easily accessible and charming destination within Washington state.

19. Dry Falls

Go To Dry Falls Map

Located in the town of Coulee City, Dry Falls is a stunning geological marvel shaped by the Ice Age floods. Spanning over three miles wide and standing at a towering 400 feet, the falls offer a breathtaking sight. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the Dry Falls Interpretive Center or opt for a scenic drive along the nearby Columbia River.

The area also attracts outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. Nearby attractions such as the Grand Coulee Dam and the Lake Lenore Caves add to the allure of this natural wonder, making it an essential stop for those exploring the diverse landscapes of Washington state.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some must-see attractions in Washington state?

Mount Rainier National Park, with its stunning scenery, hiking trails, and diverse ecosystems

The Space Needle, an iconic landmark offering panoramic views of Seattle

Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rainforests, coastline, and mountains

Pike Place Market, a bustling marketplace famous for its fresh seafood, local produce, and unique crafts

Snoqualmie Falls, a breathtaking waterfall located just outside of Seattle

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known destinations worth visiting?

The best places to visit in Washington State, are several hidden gems and lesser-known destinations worth visiting in Washington state. Deception Pass State Park, located on Whidbey Island, offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and opportunities for beachcombing. Whidbey Island itself is a picturesque island with charming small towns, art galleries, and beautiful beaches.

Another hidden gem worth exploring is Fort Worden, a historic park located in Port Townsend. This former military fort now offers visitors the chance to wander through historic buildings, explore coastal trails, and attend cultural events.

How long should I plan to spend in Washington state to fully explore the top destinations?

The best places to visit in Washington State, The amount of time you should plan to spend in Washington State depends on your interests and the number of top destinations you want to explore. For a comprehensive trip, we recommend planning at least two weeks, allowing you to visit the major attractions, national parks, and cities.

If you have limited time, consider prioritizing your must-see destinations and plan accordingly. Whether you’re looking for day trips, extended stays, or a full travel itinerary, Washington State offers a wealth of opportunities to discover its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities.

In conclusion, the best places to visit in Washington State offer a diverse range of breathtaking destinations that cater to various interests and preferences. From the vibrant city of Seattle to the serene San Juan Islands, there is something for everyone to explore and enjoy. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or art lover, this state has it all.

Make sure to plan your itinerary well and allocate enough time to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of each destination. And don’t forget to share your own experiences and recommendations in the comments below! Happy exploring!

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Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.

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15 Places to Visit in Washington State for Fun, Adventure and Beautiful Vistas

Kimberly Miles

Between its towering space needles, stomach dropping bridges, grandiose mountains and stunning national parks, there’s certainly no shortage of things to do and see in the Evergreen State. If you’re having trouble deciding which of the best places to visit in Washington State you should put on your itinerary, start with this list of our 14 faves.

Bordered by Canada, Oregon and the Pacific Ocean, Washington State is known for its diverse ecosystems, majestic mountains, stunning national parks and iconic landmarks. No matter your age or interests, there is something on this list that will leave you wishing you had more time to explore them all.

From jaw-dropping natural wonders and temperate rainforests to art museums and internationally known coffee shops, there’s something bound to catch the attention of art lovers, nature lovers, history lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and foodies.

Home to the original Starbucks Coffee, Seattle sits on the Puget Sound surrounded by water, mountains and forests. As the largest city in the state, there is plenty to do and see to keep you busy whether you’re visiting for a day or a week.

The historic Pioneer Square, also known as Seattle’s first neighborhood, is known for its Renaissance Revival architecture as well as its art galleries, coffee shops, boutiques, trendy bars and nightlife. The popular Pike Place Market, Seattle’s original farmer’s market, is the place to go for locally-sourced foods, art and crafts. The Pike Place Fish Market is perhaps one of the most entertaining parts of the market as “flying fish” get thrown back and forth between fish mongers who then catch and wrap it behind the counter.

Seattle makes it easy to get around the city with a choice between the Link Light Rail , King County Metro Transit and the Seattle Streetcar .

Must-visit places in Seattle include:

Space Needle

The Space Needle is perhaps the most recognizable feature of the Seattle Skyline and one of the most recognized attractions in America. This 605-foot-tall structure at the center of the city offers an observation deck as well as a rotating restaurant. It is definitely a must-visit attraction while in Seattle.

Built for the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair, the Space Needle began as a drawing on a napkin, inspired by the Stuttgart Tower in Germany. After many design iterations, architects Edward Carlson, Victor Steinbrueck and John Graham Jr. created the iconic building that soars above the city today, offering 360 degree views of Seattle.

Deception Pass State Park

The most visited state park in the state of Washington, Deception Pass State Park has more than 3,854 acres of mysterious coves, cliffs and stunning sunsets. There’s also a marine and camping park with 77,000 feet of saltwater shoreline and three freshwater lakes.

Spend a day at Deception Pass State Park fishing or swimming in Cranberry Lake. Or, bring out your sand buckets and search for seashells along the Puget Sound beachfront. You may even catch a glimpse of a whale or a family of seals while you’re there! If you’re feeling a little more active, you can conquer one of the hiking trails through the park’s stunning forest while birdwatching and spotting other local wildlife. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, take a stroll across the stomach-dropping Deception Pass Bridge, which connects Skagit Bay with the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Bainbridge Island

Just a short ferry ride from Seattle, Bainbridge Island is roughly the same size as Manhattan, NYC, but with more hills. The island is a great day trip where you can enjoy a relaxed vibe outside of the main city riding bikes (there are bicycle lanes everywhere) or strolling its Main Street lined with shops and cafes.

Island attractions include Bloedel Reserve with landscaped gardens and trails, the coastal Fay Bainbridge Park and Campground with beach views of the Cascade Mountains and Puget Sound and the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, with rotating exhibitions by contemporary local artists.

Spokane is known as the birthplace of Father’s Day. But that’s not all that makes it special. In addition to its nickname of “Hooptown USA” due to its hosting of the world’s largest basketball tournament, it is also home to the vast Riverfront Park, site of the 1974 World’s Fair.

Spokane is one of the best places to visit in Washington State for its four seasons and number of both indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy year-round. The walkable downtown area is a mix of boutique shops, chain stores, laid back eateries and pubs. The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture explores the region’s history, culture and Native American Heritage.

For stunning views of Spokane Falls, hop on a cable car from Riverfront Park or take the kiddos on a carousel ride. Afterwards, take a stroll through the park’s sculpture walk.

3. San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands in Washington are known for its incredible landscapes and wildlife. Although there are 172 named islands and reefs in the county, the four most popular islands that are served by the Washington State Ferry are San Juan Island (with the beautiful seaside town of Friday Harbor), Orcas Island, Lopez Island and Shaw Island.

San Juan Island, located in the Strait of Juan de Fuca along the Canadian border, is one of the most popular islands. It is one of the best places in Washington to visit for temperate climate with a slow, island pace. Catherine Parker took the ferry to San Juan Island on a road trip through the Pacific Northwest and was immediately hooked by its history, orca whale-watching from Lime Kiln Point State Park and fields of summertime lavender. As soon as you hop off the ferry, you’ll step into Friday Harbor lined with shops and restaurants. From there you can catch an inter-island ferry to the Lopez, Orcas and Shaw Islands.

Horseshoe-shaped Orcas Island, called “the gem of the San Juans” by locals is a mix of  arts and culture, lush forests, pristine lakes and outdoor recreation. Lopez Island, known as “the friendly isle,” offers a landscape of forests, farmlands, quiet bays and beaches with distant views of the snow-tipped Mount Baker. Shaw Island is the smallest of the four islands with just one small grocery store, one park and campground.

4. Leavenworth

Located in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth is a Bavarian-style village with Alpine-style buildings and a popular Front Street serving up delicious German beer and food. Leavenworth is one of the best places to visit in the state of Washington for skiing and wine tasting at one of its many wineries.

Leavenworth in the winter is magical, especially during the holidays. On December 1st, the town turns into a Winter Wonderland with 1.2 million lights, carolers, sleigh rides, a lantern parade and roasted chestnut vendors. There are weekly festivals, a traditional Christkindlmarkt, and a massive tree in the center of town. Melody Pittman recommends the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum with nearly 5,000 items to admire.

If you’re up for a road trip, take a trip to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness with 700 lakes and numerous opportunities for hiking, glacial mountaineering and fishing (with the proper license).

Located on the banks of Puget Sound, Tacoma may not be as famous as its sister city Seattle, but it still has plenty to offer. In fact, it is one of the best places to visit for art lovers with unique pieces of art and hands-on exhibits to explore.

Tacoma is known for the Chihuly Bridge of Glass, a pedestrian bridge that connects downtown Tacoma to the waterfront. It also serves as an outdoor gallery of Chihuly works. This gallery features two 40-foot towers of giant blue crystals, a walk-through pavilion with a ceiling of 1,500 glass “Seaforms” and a wall of Venetian vessels. The bridge will take you from the Tacoma Art Museum to the Museum of Glass where you can explore even more unique pieces. Judy Antell calls it “a museum to entice kids who are art museum averse.”

Other attractions in Tacoma that you’ll want to include in your vacation budget include the Point Defiance Zoom and Aquarium; , the must-visit LeMay ( America’s Car Museum ), which celebrates America’s passion for the automobile; the Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, which transports visitors back to the 19th century; and the Washington State History Museum, which features hands-on exhibits including a vast model railroad. Just a half-hour away is the state capital of Olympia and the towering Washington State Capitol building.

6. Port Angeles

Sitting at the entrance of the Olympic National Park, Port Angeles is one of the best places to visit in Washington for outdoor enthusiasts and explorers. Although the park is the biggest highlight with nearly one million acres for hikers, bikers and beachcombers to have a blast, Port Angeles has so much more to offer.

Because of the town’s seaside locale and proximity to lakes and rivers, outdoor enthusiasts have a variety of water activities at their fingertips including paddleboarding, scuba diving, surfing and kayaking. Hurricane Ridge is popular for skiing and snowboarding during the winter. Those looking to get up close and personal with wildlife and sealife can easily do so in the Olympic Peninsula by whale watching, bird watching and hiking to spot mountain goats, deer and marmot.

If you’re looking for a low key way to spend time in town, visit one of the town’s historic sites and museums to learn more about its Native American heritage, or do some shopping around the charming downtown and waterfront area. There’s no way to get bored in Port Angeles!

7. Olympic National Park

With more than 900,000 acres of wilderness to explore, the year-round Olympic National Park is a beautiful place with rugged coasts dotted with tide pools, hidden trails, hot springs, temperate rain forests and wildflower-covered mountaintop meadows. Olympic National Park is a triple threat park with mountains to hike, rainforests to explore and beaches to walk. In fact, Olympic National Park is so diverse and beautiful that it is considered a World Heritage Site, and the only one of its kind in the northwest.

SheBuysTravel contributor Catherine Parker visited the park and recommends exploring a rainforest trail to get the full Olympic National Park experience. The popular Hoh Rain Forest, located on the Olympic Peninsula, is one of the largest temperate rainforests in the USA. She also recommends Lake Quinault for trails. Both Lake Quinault and the Hoh Rain Forest are stunning and offer family hikes. Small group tours are also available.

Some other fun ways to explore the park’s beauty include driving up to Hurricane Ridge to see its glaciers, exploring an alpine ridge and hiking through a meadow of flowers. Or swim in a warm mineral pool. If you’re up for the challenge, grab a stand-up paddleboard.

8. Vancouver

Vancouver (not to be confused with Vancouver, British Columbia) is the 4th largest city in Washington State. With nearly 200 parks to explore, Vancouver is one of the best places to visit in Washington State for outdoorsy visitors.

If you don’t do anything else while in Vancouver, the historic waterfront and waterfront park is a must. Built in 2018, the 7.3 acre park has an open lawn, an urban beach, picnic areas and an interactive water play feature, Headwaters Wall. Walk or bike the Waterfront Renaissance Trail to the Vancouver Land Bridge, leading you to the family-friendly National Historic Site, Fort Vancouver. Vancouver’s Main Street is a great place to go for antique shops and galleries, pubs, restaurants and ice cream shops.

For some additional outdoor recreation and enjoyment, head to the Columbia River Gorge for trails, forests, waterfalls, canyons and incredible vistas. The 11,000-square-foot Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum is the place to learn about the area’s cultural and national history.

9. Bellingham

Located near the border of Canada, Bellingham is a coastal city and port for ferries to Alaska. SheBuysTravel contributor Silvana Clark is a Bellingham native and thinks of the semi-small town as one of the best places to visit in Washington State for visitors seeking a break from big city traffic and crowded attractions.

For some fresh air and time in nature, Bellingham offers moer than 40 parks, each with its own distinct personality. Some are basic with a few trails or homemade rope swings, while others cover hundreds of acres.

Spark Museum of Electrical Inventions is one of those slightly weird, yet fun museums that teach you things  you didn’t know you needed to know and features a giant “MegaZapper” Tesla Coil that produces nine-foot lightning bolts! Find a 500-square-foot large toy train in the Bellingham Railroad Museum, or explore trails and lookouts down to Puget Sound at the Larrabee State Park. The Whatcom Museum is the place to go for art, nature and regional history. And just an hour’s road-trip away is where you’ll find year-round snow at Mount Baker.

10. North Cascades National Park

Located in the northern part of the state, North Cascades National park offers 300 glaciers in a rugged park vast with mountains and lakes. The west side of the park offers a temperate rainforest while the east side of the park offers a dry ponderosa pine forest.

For visitors wanting to spot some wildlife, the park is home to grizzly bears, gray wolves and more than 200 species of birds. If you want to camp in a floating cabin, you can find them at the Ross Lake Resort along the Skagit River. The fun part is that they’re only accessible by float plane, ferry or horseback.

11. Lake Chelan

Just over the North Cascade mountains from Seattle sits Lake Chelan, the third deepest lake in the USA. Although it’s not well known outside of the state of Washington, it is one of the best places to visit in Washington State for locals and visitors looking for a summertime getway.

With 50 miles of shoreline set inside a picturesque mountain valley, Lake Chelan provides plenty of fun. There are three communities located on the lake: Chelan, Manson and Steheken, which is only accessible via boat, seaplane or hiking. With four full seasons and more than 300 days of sunshine per year (unlike the rainy, drizzly images that come to mind when someone mentions Seattle), the area is a popular tourist destination with many events, activities and festivals happening year-round.

SheBuysTravel contributor Deb Steenhagen says her favorite experience while visiting Lake Chelan was the Lady of the Lake ferry, which runs year-round from Chelan to Stehekin. It’s the only regular ferry service to the upper portion of the lake, which is only accessible by boat, plane or walking. In her words, “Whether you make a day of it or choose to stay overnight in Stehekin (or set up at a campsite along the way), this area is remote and beautiful to explore by boat or on foot.”

12. Snoqualmie Falls

One of Washington’s most popular tourist attractions, Snoqualmie Falls is a scenic, 268-foot waterfall located east of Seattle on the Snoqualmie River. It is internationally known for its appearance in the American mystery serial drama series Twin Peaks.

The waterfall sits in a two-acre park with an observation deck, gift shop and a lodge and spa. The 1.4 miles out-and-back trail to get to the waterfall is generally considered easy and takes roughly 45 minutes to complete. Whether you want to hike or bike the trail is up to you! Wine lovers can enjoy a trip to the falls before embarking on a fun wine tasting tour .

13. Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is home to the 14,410-oot, glacier-capped Mount Rainier, an icon in the state. It is one of the best places to visit in Washington State if you want incredible mountain views. As an active volcano, it is the most glaciated peak in the USA.

On a clear day, Mount Rainier offers Seattle’s best view. The 6,400-foot-high Sunrise is the highest point in the park reachable by car where you can view Mt. Rainer and other nearby volcanoes. Head to the 5,400-foot-high Paradise overlook for the best mountain views, wildflower meadows and hiking trailheads.

And of course, a trip to Mount Rainier is not complete without sampling its namesake cherries. It’s a good idea to arrive early in the day during the summer.

14. Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Located between Canada and Mt. Rainier National Park, the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is another of the best places to visit in Washington State for beautiful views, forests and glacier-covered mountaintops.

With year-round recreational activities, the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is a playground for outdoor lovers of all ages. When not on a guided tour, you can check out one of the park’s lakes or rivers and do some fishing or go rafting. In the winter months, you can go cross-country skiing or give snowshoeing a try. Or, take a relaxing hike while doing some bird watching.

15. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Mount St. Helen’s National Volcanic Monument once was a recreational playground for Washington. However, one Sunday morning on May 18, 1980, an earthquake caused the snow capped mountain to collapse into an avalanche, which released pressurized gasses from within the volcano. The explosion detroyed nearly 150 square miles of forest, leaving behind a gray landscape. In 1982 the 110,000-acre site was turned into a National Volcanic Monument.

The Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument now draws thousands of visitors yearly to climb the rim, learn about the history of the area and to take part in recreational activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, skiing and snowboarding.

Catherine Parker visited Mount St. Helens with her three school-age kids and recommends the Johnston Ridge Observatory with live seismographs and geologic exhibits. The visitor center offers two films that had her kids glued to their seats as they watched.

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30 Best Places To Visit In Washington State

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• 30 Best Places To Visit…

From vast national parks and laid-back islands to big cities and small towns, there’s no shortage of places to visit in Washington State. Set in the Pacific Northwest, it’s called the Evergreen State because its forests remain a rich green all year round. Washington is a nature lover’s paradise that’s teeming with gorgeous mountains and lakes. And with more museums, old buildings, and art galleries than you can shake a stick at, it’s likewise a haven for culture and history buffs.

The state is an economic powerhouse too. It is, after all, home to some of today’s biggest companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Boeing. Home-grown billionaires, meanwhile, include Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates. Another large part of the state’s economy is its robust agriculture. In fact, Washington is the USA’s leading producer of goodies like red raspberries, apples, and Concord grapes. Hence, it’s no surprise that orchards and vineyards are intrinsic to the state’s landscape.

So whether you’re thinking of a romantic island getaway, a thrilling mountain hike, or a big-city adventure with the kids, you’ll find plenty of places to visit in Washington State.

Bellevue is a smallish city with a population of roughly 150,000. Yet, it’s home to quite a large number of attractions. For example, the Bellevue Botanical Garden is a lush paradise of wetlands and woodlands. Downtown Park, too, has its share of natural beauty with a waterfall, gardens, and a sizable lawn. On the other hand, Bellevue is a shopper’s delight. It’s home to some of the country’s premium retail hotspots including the Shops at the Bravern and the Bellevue Collection.

If you’re visiting with kids, you’ll find a host of things to keep the little ones entertained. At the Kelsey Creek Park Farm, guests can interact with farm animals like ponies and goats. Summers are fun at Enatai Beach Park on Lake Washington’s shores. Besides a swimming dock, it also features a playground and a picnic area. Meanwhile, the Funtastic Playtorium offers kids the chance to run, jump, and play to their heart’s content.

Skagit Valley

There’s a slew of beautiful places to visit in Washington State, and Skagit Valley is one of them. Tucked in the state’s northwestern corner, it’s a mecca for nature and culture lovers. If you visit in the springtime, don’t miss the annual Tulip Festival. In fact, this event is so popular that you might want to take the Tulip Festival and Skagit Valley Tour to skip the lines. The Skagit Farm to Pint Festival and the La Conner Daffodil Festival are likewise popular events.

Skagit Valley is an important agricultural hub. Thus, it’s no surprise that good eats are plentiful here. For instance, you can gorge on fresh fruit at the Mount Vernon Farmers Market. It’s held every Saturday from May through October in downtown Mount Vernon. Art lovers, meanwhile, shouldn’t miss the Museum of Northwest Art. It’s located in downtown La Conner and showcases the diversity of the region’s artists.

San Juan Island

This island is the most populous and second-largest of its kind in the San Juan Islands group in the northwestern part of the state. When you visit, you’ll likely enter through Friday Harbor, the gateway to the island. However, it’s more than just a place to pass through. As San Juan Island’s hub, Friday Harbor offers plenty of attractions. You can buy fresh seafood on the docks and learn about the sea’s gentle giants at the Whale Museum.

Similarly, Roche Harbor on the island’s northwest side attracts a fair number of visitors. History-wise, it boasts attractions such as the Hotel de Haro. Opened in 1886, it’s Washington State’s oldest continually operating hotel. The San Juan Islands Sculpture Park with its unique outdoor installations is also worth visiting. Kayaking and whale-watching tours are other popular pastimes here.

Lavender fields as far as the eye can see are the hallmark of Sequim (pronounced “skwim”), a city in Clallam County. In fact, it’s called the “Lavender Capital of North America.” Homages to the plant are all around. In the cozy downtown area, for instance, you’ll find lavender shops. As well, the benches and light posts boast the plant’s vivid hue.

Outdoor recreation is excellent in Sequim. During summer, you can pick lavender as well as fruits such as strawberries and blueberries at the local organic farms. Another popular summer event is the Sequim Lavender Weekend. This includes a street fair at Carrie Blake Park, the LavenderStock musical extravanza, and farm tours.

The Wild West lives on in Winthrop, a tiny town in Okanogan County. Its population is likewise tiny; fewer than 500 people call it home according to 2017 figures from the U.S. Census Bureau. Even so, it’s a great place to visit if you fancy stepping back to a more rugged yet enchanting time.

All the buildings in town feature the American Old West design. Winthrop is also home to Three Fingered Jack’s Saloon, the oldest legal saloon in Washington State. Art galleries are plentiful here, and there’s a theater that stages live performances. Music is also a big deal here, with events such as the Winthrop Rhythm and Blues Festival.

Port Townsend

Another example of Washington State’s wondrous small cities is Port Townsend. It’s located on the Quimper Peninsula in Jefferson County and offers plenty of adventures. In Port Townsend Bay, for instance, you might chance upon sea lions, orcas, and seals. Kayaking in Admiralty Inlet is also a popular activity here. Meanwhile, the beach from Point Hudson to Fort Worden State Park is a great place for a romantic stroll.

Port Townsend is also noted for its 300+ Victorian-style houses. These include the James Stockand House, the Max Gerson Home, and the Old Consulate Inn, which all date from the 1880s. The stately Palace Hotel is also worth a mention. It occupies a 3-story brick building constructed in 1889. At one point, the building housed a brothel referred to as “The Palace of the Sweets.”

As the capital of Washington State, one of Olympia’s defining landmarks is, of course, the Washington State Capitol. Built in the 1920s, this imposing Neoclassical building houses the state government’s offices. Nearby, the Washington Governor’s Mansion draws the eye with its Georgian Revival architecture. The mansion, completed in 1909, features some furnishings dating back to the early 1800s.

Downtown Olympia sits north of the Capitol and holds a bevy of things to see and do. Besides fantastic dining and shopping, it’s also home to green spaces such as Bigelow Springs Park and the Garfield Nature Trail. The Hands-On Children’s Museum features interactive exhibits while the year-round Farmers’ Market offers the best of local food. Meanwhile, the semi-annual Olympia Arts Walk celebrates the city’s rich artistic heritage.

Leavenworth

Established in 1885, Leavenworth exudes charm with its Bavarian village-style layout. The Bavarian theme, introduced in 1965 to encourage tourism, was a resounding success. Leavenworth has a tiny population, just 1,995 people as of 2017. However, it draws tourists, not just because of its lovely appearance, but also due to its proximity to wineries and ski resorts in the Cascade Mountains.

At the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum, you can see thousands of nutcrackers, some of them dating from prehistoric times. Longing for a golf getaway? The 1927 Leavenworth Golf Club provides scenic courses surrounded by mountains and rivers. And if you visit in the fall, you can take part in the annual Oktoberfest fete. Join the Keg Tapping Ceremony and dance to music by local and German musicians. And of course, drink your fill of great beer.

Deception Pass State Park

Filled with breathtaking natural beauty, Deception Pass State Park is one of the best places to visit in Washington State. In fact, it’s among the state’s most-visited state parks. Spanning 1,560 hectares (3,854 acres), it’s teeming with trails, cliffs, and stunning lakes. Moreover, it’s home to what seems like endless saltwater and freshwater shores.

The park, located on Whidbey Island, is a haven for outdoor adventurers. Go canopy climbing among old-growth trees, hike along the stunning Lighthouse Point trail, or take a dip in Cranberry Lake. Meanwhile, you can learn about the park’s ecosystems and plants at the Sand Dunes Interpretive Trail.

The tiny town of Steilacoom in Pierce County is a fantastic place to visit if you’re a history enthusiast. For one thing, it’s Washington State’s oldest incorporated town. Official incorporation took place in 1854. It’s also home to the state’s oldest Catholic church as well as the first Protestant church north of the Columbia River.

Old buildings serve as major attractions throughout town. The Steilacoom Tribal Cultural Center & Museum, for instance, dates from 1903. Some of the timbers used in its construction came from an 1854 church. Opportunities for outdoor pursuits are also plentiful in Steilacoom. Pioneer Park hosts the annual Summer Concert Series while Sunnyside Beach Park is a popular site for novice divers.

Set on the shore of Puget Sound, Gig Harbor is a city in Pierce County that exemplifies small-town charm. Its population is downright tiny (9,507 as of 2017). Nevertheless, it’s a worthwhile place to visit in Washington State. Besides being one of the gateways to the Olympic Peninsula, it’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities.

At the Harbor History Museum, visitors can learn about Gig Harbor’s rich maritime history. Heritage markers peppering the community also tell tales of the city’s storied past. Today, Gig Harbor boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene. If you visit in summer, catch the Summer Sounds at Skansie Concert Series. Meanwhile, fall sees the arrival of the annual Gig Harbor Film Festival.

Ellensburg is a fine example of Washington State’s charming small cities. Roughly 21,000 people call this city in Kittitas County home, and it draws visitors from all over because of all the attractions it offers. History buffs, in particular, will enjoy the downtown area where many 19th-century buildings still stand. The Davidson Building, for example, dates from 1890. Throughout its history, it has housed shops and restaurants as well as hotel rooms and offices.

Art lovers will find many places to while the hours away. The Clymer Museum of Art, for instance, features the works of local artist John F. Clymer. Meanwhile, shoppers can meander downtown’s streets and browse through quaint stores. Night owls, on the other hand, can take their pick from dance clubs and live music venues.

Set in the lushly beautiful Yakima Valley, the city of Yakima is a popular place to visit in Washington State. It’s home to a slew of attractions, from museums and parks to golf courses and farmers’ markets. Also, you can expect plenty of good eats since the valley produces various fruit crops.

Yakima hosts several popular festivals. For instance, the Central Washington State Fair takes place in the fall. It features carnival rides, concerts, and a petting zoo among others. Meanwhile, the Yakima Folklife Festival is a joyous summer affair. During this time, you can watch outdoor music and dance performances. You can also shop from a wide variety of food and craft vendors.

Beacon Rock State Park

The 258-meter (848 feet) Beacon Rock towers over the Columbia River’s north shore at this beautiful state park in Skamania County. The area is rich in history, due partly to the Lewis & Clark Expedition’s arrival in 1805 to measure the river’s tides. Also, Beacon Rock itself is the core of an ancient volcano.

The park is a popular-year round destination with plenty of activities on offer. For instance, you can hike the switchback trail to Beacon Rock’s peak or ride a horse to reach vistas from Hamilton Mountain. Rock climbers will also find plenty of challenging spots to test their skills. Boating is a popular pastime on the river, and there are camping grounds where you can spend the night under the stars.

Small-town life is as charming as it gets in Poulsbo. Set along Liberty Bay, it’s the tiniest of four cities in Kitsap County. Poulsbo earned the nicknames “Little Norway” and “Viking City” because of its settlement by Norwegian immigrants in the 1880s. Today, the city proudly displays and promotes its Scandinavian roots. It’s truly one of the unique places to visit in Washington State.

For example, each time May rolls around, Poulsbo residents don their Viking costumes for Viking Fest. Also, the city’s museums feature exhibits about the daily lives of Poulsbo’s earliest families. The city is also home to quite a few charming parks where visitors of all ages can have tons of fun. At Frank Raab Park, for instance, adults and kids can play volleyball, go skating, and have a picnic.

Moran State Park

Spanning over 2,000 hectares (5,000 acres) on Orcas Island, Moran State Park shows nature at her rawest. Hills, forests, lakes, bogs, and wetlands make up its diverse landscape. As you can expect, there are boundless outdoor pursuits in this beautiful Washington state park.

For example, you can hike along picturesque trails up Mount Constitution, the highest point in the entire San Juan Islands. Once you get to the top, you’ll see a replica of a Russian stone watchtower dating from the 1930s. The ever-popular Cascade Lake is another must-see. Here, you can swim with the kids and enjoy lakeside picnics.

Walla Walla

Legend has it that Walla Walla is a “town so nice they named it twice.” In reality, it’s a Native American term that translates to “Place of Many Waters.” This is because early in its history, the town sat at the junction of the Columbia and Snake rivers. Today, many tourists come to Walla Walla in southeastern Washington to enjoy its attractions. Downtown, for instance, is home to many historic spots. Here, you’ll find the 1928 Marcus Whitman Hotel and the 1880 Kirkman House Museum.

Are you an avid golfer? Then a few hours at the Veterans Memorial Golf Course will be a great experience. For family-friendly outdoor fun, you can head to the courts and playgrounds of Wildwood Park. Also, shopping is plentiful in Walla Walla if you’re thinking of retail therapy. The Antique Mall of Walla Walla, for instance, is a terrific place to buy high-quality souvenirs.

Bainbridge Island

Bainbridge Island is a quick ferry trip from Seattle, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Washington State. It’s home to a small city, but it’s big on attractions. If you love art, you’ll appreciate work by local artists at the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art. The island also boasts a thriving winery scene, which you can learn about in this luxury wine and history tour .

If you’re the outdoorsy type, you’ll find plenty to do all around. At Fay Bainbridge Park, you can go kayaking and explore the beaches along the extensive shoreline. Meanwhile, the 61-hectare (150 acres) Bloedel Reserve offers you the chance to immerse yourself in nature. Home to lush woodlands and verdant gardens, it enjoys a reputation as one of North America’s best botanical gardens.

Perched on the Columbia River’s north bank, Vancouver offers a diversity of attractions. It’s located 265 km (165 mi) from Seattle and 494 km (307 mi) from its namesake in the Canadian province of British Columbia. The beauty of nature, awe-inspiring history, and a vibrant culture are all present in this lovely city.

History buffs will enjoy visiting Fort Vancouver, which served as a fur-trading post in the 19th century. Today, visitors can view cultural demonstrations where actors in period clothing and objects to show traditional skills like blacksmithing. Nearby, Officers Row showcases restored 19th-century Victorian homes that were once used by U.S. Army officers. These include the Italianate-style General O.O. Howard House and the Queen Anne-style George C. Marshall House.

Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument

Also called Mount St. Helens National Park, the monument opened in 1982, two years after the volcano’s huge eruption. The park covers 445 sq km (110,000 acres) around Mount St. Helens in Skamania County. It offers opportunities for education, research, and recreation. For instance, you’ll find exhibits about the volcano and the area’s history and culture at the Visitor Center at Silver Lake. Meanwhile, the Johnston Ridge Observatory has a hiking trail within sight of the lava dome.

If you’re a hiking buff, make time for the Ape Cave lava tube south of Mount St. Helens. Aside from seeing the longest continuous lava tube in the continental US, you’ll also have nice views of the volcano’s lahar region. Bear Meadows, an alpine grassland northeast of the volcano, is another good viewing point. But for a closer look at the crater, head to Windy Ridge. It’s the nearest vantage point to Mount Saint Helens that the public can access.

Mount Rainier National Park

Covering an area of 956 sq km (369 sq mi), Mount Rainier National Park is a splendid expanse of natural beauty. It lies 1.5 hours south of Seattle and is one of the best places to visit in Washington State. Due to its proximity to Seattle, expeditions like Seattle–Mount Rainier Park tours are a big hit. And no matter what time of the year you choose to go, you’ll find no shortage of sights and activities.

If you’re at least 18 years old, for instance, you can get a permit and pay the necessary fees to climb Mt. Rainier itself. Mountaineers come from near and far to reach the peak of this active volcano throughout the year. Meanwhile, climbing Chinook Pass will lead you to Tipsoo Lake, an area renowned for its gorgeous wildflowers. And if you love waterfalls, you shouldn’t miss Christine Falls. It’s one of the prettiest tiered plunge waterfalls in the park.

Stuart Island

Part of the San Juan Islands region, Stuart Island is an ideal place for a peaceful escape. You’ll find no glitzy malls here, no fancy restaurants or crowded amusement parks. Instead, it’s home to Stuart Island State Park. This nature lover’s haven spans 10,070 meters (33,030 feet) of saltwater shoreline. Fishing, scuba diving, and exploring almost 6 km (3.7 mi) of hiking trails are on the agenda here.

On the island’s western coast, the Turn Point Light Station guides ships traversing the waters of Boundary Pass. The lighthouse and the nearby cliffs called Lover’s Leap are popular destinations for hikers. Meanwhile, the tiny Teacherage Museum features exhibits about the island’s one-room schoolhouse.

Located between Seattle and the Canadian city of Vancouver, Bellingham is Whatcom County’s most populous city. Tourists are drawn to Bellingham for its wealth of attractions. Besides offering easy access to the North Cascades, the city itself shines with places to visit. The Whatcom Museum, for instance, is a popular landmark that’s worth a visit. It’s housed in the old city hall building that catches the eye with its central clock tower and Victorian cupolas.

Can’t get enough of the spotlight? Then a visit to Mount Baker Theatre is in order. This historic building, which still has some of its original 1927 elements, is home to the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra. If you’d like to see outdoor art, head to the Big Rock Sculpture Garden. Here, you can marvel at dozens of sculptures by local and international artists.

Mount Baker–Snoqualmie National Forest

Emerald lakes, glacial mountains, and lofty, leafy trees. These and more make Mount Baker–Snoqualmie National Forest seem like a fairy tale setting. It stretches over 225 km (140 mi) along the Cascade Mountains’ western slopes. Starting from the US–Canada border, the forest extends to Mount Rainier National Park’s northern edge.

Mount Baker–Snoqualmie National Forest offers something for everyone, from novice hikers to seasoned outdoor adventurers. You’ll find spectacular views at the end of trails leading to spots such as Gold Run Pass, Dickerman Mountain, and Deer Creek. Fishing, rafting, and camping are popular activities here in pleasant weather. Winter likewise holds plenty in store. At Stevens Pass, for instance, there’s a winter sports area where you can go night skiing.

Because of all the attractions it offers, Spokane is one of the most popular places to visit in Washington State. Fans of history can learn about Native American heritage at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture. Nearby, the early 20th-century Campbell House is a fine example of Tudor-style architecture. Meanwhile, culture vultures can explore the Jundt Art Museum and the colorful Duncan Garden at Manito Park.

Nature lovers, too, will find plenty to see and do in Spokane. At Mount Spokane State Park, you can go hiking, horseback riding, and skiing. Want to see some beautiful wildlife? At the Cat Tales Zoological Park, you can look at big cats and other animals like coyotes and bears. Finally, aquatic fun can be had during a rafting trip on the Spokane River .

North Cascades National Park

The diversity of the landscape, plant life, and wildlife at North Cascades National Park never fail to impress. Situated in northern Washington State, it spans over 200 hectares (500,000 acres). Glacier-capped mountains, breathtaking lakes, and dense forests are all around. The wildlife is just as impressive. Here, grizzly bears and gray wolves roam while hundreds of bird species fly above. And, as you would expect, the park is teeming with opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Mountaineering is popular here, with many an intrepid soul climbing Mount Shukshan and Sinister Peak. Cycling is likewise a favorite thing to do here. Bicycling routes such as Stehekin Valley Road offer a scenic way to go about on two wheels. When it comes to adventures on the water, you can choose from many. Paddling at Ross Lake, fishing in Lake Chelan, and kayaking in Diablo Lake’s turquoise waters are just a few options.

Much like the glass art for which it’s known, Tacoma is alluring and multi-faceted. The city sits on Puget Sound’s banks and boasts a diversity of attractions. One of its many draws, for example, is the landmark Museum of Glass . Inside, you’ll find works by Dale Chihuly, a household name in the world of glass art. Nearby, other cultural institutions showcase history and culture. These include the Washington State History Museum and the Foss Waterway Seaport.

Tacoma also hosts wonderful annual festivals. For example, colorful flower displays take center stage at Mayfest while the Freedom Fair celebrates the 4th of July. During the fall, the Tacoma Film Festival shows independent movies from all over the world. Finally, the First Night Tacoma festival features dancing, fire shows, and food trucks.

Snoqualmie Falls

More than 1.5 million visitors make their way to Snoqualmie Falls, making it one of the state’s most popular natural attractions. The waterfalls, which are 82 meters (268 feet) high, are on the Snoqualmie River. It’s located about 47 km (28 miles) east of Seattle. Nearby, the 4-star Salish Lodge & Spa offers rooms overlooking the falls. Fans of the TV show Twin Peaks might recognize the hotel because the program used its exterior for the fictional Great Northern Hotel.

You can view the waterfall from the side, in an area that has benches and picnic tables. Nearby, the Centennial Green meadow is a popular place for summer weddings. There’s also a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs. A scenic trail near the top of the falls leads to a lower observation deck. The trail passes through a rainforest filled with leafy maple trees and evergreen sword fern.

The amazing city of Seattle offers plenty of things to see and do for visitors of all ages. In the morning, you can head to Pike Place Market for the freshest fruits and vegetables. Later, you can take the kids to the Museum of Pop Culture and the waterfront Seattle Great Wheel. History buffs will enjoy the Museum of Flight and the imposing St. James Cathedral. Of course, no trip to Seattle would be complete without a visit to the iconic Space Needle.

The hip and historic Ballard neighborhood is a great place for eclectic cuisine. Scandinavian influences are all around the area, and you can learn more at the National Nordic Museum. Meanwhile, the trendy West Seattle neighborhood is where you’ll find offbeat stores.

Olympic National Park

The sprawling Olympic National Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Washington State. Covering 3,734 sq km (1,442 sq mi) on the Olympic Peninsula, it spans various ecosystems. A rugged coastline, mountains topped by glaciers, and old-growth forests are all here. The park is also home to diverse wildlife such as bull elk, black bears, and whales.

There are many things to do in this vast park. You can explore the tide pools at Ruby Beach or hike the scenic Royal Basin Trail. Paddling in Lake Ozette is also popular, as is skiing on Hurricane Ridge in winter. But, if you’d like to explore Hurricane Ridge with a guide, we recommend this private tour .

Author:  Julie Wharton

As a solo traveler, I have discovered the freedom and adventure that comes from exploring the world on your own terms. With a backpack on my back and a thirst for new experiences, I have journeyed to some of the most remote and fascinating destinations on the planet. As a travel blogger, I share my stories and insights with fellow solo travelers who are looking to break free from the constraints of group tours and package deals. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a first-time adventurer, my blog is dedicated to helping you plan your solo travels with confidence and ease. From tips on finding the best hostels to recommendations for off-the-beaten-path destinations, I provide a wealth of information that will help you make the most of your solo journey. And with a passion for photography and storytelling, I bring each destination to life through vivid imagery and captivating narratives. So if you're ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime, join me on my journey and let's discover the world together.

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The Most Beautiful Places in the Pacific Northwest

By Caitlin Morton

There's no shortage of naturally beautiful regions in the United States, from the dreamy desert landscapes of the Southwest to the charming small towns of New England . But when it comes to natural diversity, few areas can compete with the Pacific Northwest—we’re talking misty beaches, wooded mountains, wildlife-filled islands, endless fields of flowers, and some of the best stargazing spots in the entire country.

The Pacific Northwest—which includes Washington, Oregon, and Idaho in the contiguous United States—is perfect for epic road trips or national park sojourns, as well as long weekends in some of the country’s coolest big cities (which also happen to be filled with green spaces). So whether you’re looking to explore Olympic National Park or sip coffee with a view in Portland, you’re sure to find travel inspiration in this list of the most beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article has been updated since its original publish date.

San Juan Islands

Hawaii isn’t the only place to have an epic island vacation in the United States: Some of the country’s best islands happen to be located off the coast of Washington. The San Juan archipelago consists of about 175 named islets, the three largest of which—Orcas, San Juan, and Lopez—are easily accessible from the mainland by ferry. You’ll find laidback locals and splendid nature galore throughout the area, but we’re particular fans of Orcas Island , with its spectacular views over Puget Sound, forested hiking paths, and pilgrimage-worthy restaurants .

Leavenworth

Can’t swing a trip to Europe right now? Fear not—there are plenty of US cities that are full of the same charm and culture you’d expect to find overseas. Case in point: Leavenworth, a town deep in Washington’s Cascade Mountains that looks exactly like a Bavarian village. Visitors will find Alpine architecture, a nutcracker museum, and plenty of German-style food halls serving up brats and beer. The city even holds its own annual Oktoberfest celebration .

Olympic National Park has so many different landscapes, we have to break it up into multiple entries. First up is Ruby Beach, a stretch of coast on the Olympic Peninsula (and one of the best beaches in the US ) known for its rock formations and sun-bleached driftwood. You can appreciate the moody shores from one of the many viewpoints along Highway 101, but if you want to truly immerse yourself, set up camp in the nearby Kalaloch Lodge —the views here are some of the best in the entire park.

Jessica Puckett

Olivia Morelli

Rachel Chang

Hoh Rain Forest

Next up is the Hoh Rain Forest, an Olympic National Park site that is completely different from Ruby Beach (though equally stunning). Replete with lichen-covered trees and bright yellow banana slugs, the forest is like the quiet eye in the often tourist-heavy storm. (And we mean that literally: The forest is reportedly the  quietest spot in the lower 48.) Venture through the Hall of Mosses Trail (just under a mile long) for some of the best views of maple trees draped in bright green moss.

Skagit Valley

You think tulips, you think Holland, right? These beautiful spring flowers can be found closer to home : Washington’s Skagit Valley has sprawling fields of tulips much like Lisse’s Keukenhof (the largest bulb garden in the world), with a festival offering guided bike tours and photo contests every April.

Whidbey Island

Often overshadowed by the more prolific San Juan Islands, Whidbey Island refuses to be ignored. Located just north of Seattle, the 55-mile-long island is a mecca for outdoorsy folks, with enough watersports and hiking trails to plan an entire trip around. Make sure to pay a visit to Deception Pass State Park for some incredible cliff-top views, then set up camp at the Captain Whidbey , a historic inn originally built in 1907 that was rebooted in 2019 .

Puget Sound

So many of Washington’s best sites are in and around Puget Sound, we thought the body of water deserved its own spot on this list. The Pacific Ocean inlet encompasses Whidbey and the San Juan islands, and it’s the main reason Seattle is so appealing to outdoor enthusiasts (and seafood lovers , while we’re at it). And then there’s the fact that the sound is just plain beautiful, with mountainous backdrops and whale sightings galore.

Discovery Park, Seattle

Speaking of outdoor activities in Seattle, there happens to be a fairly epic 534-acre park right in the city. Discovery Park is perched on the shores of Puget Sound in Seattle’s Magnolia neighborhood, drawing both residents and tourists with its hiking trails, coastal bluffs, lighthouses, peaceful meadows, and Indigenous cultural centers.

Columbia River Gorge

One of our favorite day trips from Portland , Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge is the birthplace of the nation’s first ever scenic highway. That means it’s an obvious road trip destination, but the site also has plenty of hidden treasures worth getting out of your car to find. Make sure to hike to the Multnomah Falls, which look like something straight out of a fairy tale .

Crater Lake National Park

Sitting at 1,943 feet deep, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, made entirely out of glacial runoff and precipitation—hence its clarity and intense blue color. To best enjoy the lake and its surroundings, book a few nights at Crater Lake Lodge —the only accommodation within the National Park borders.

Silver Falls State Park

While most travelers flock to America’s national parks, Oregon makes a great case for adding state parks to your road trip itinerary. The state has hundreds of protected areas , but few capture the PNW brand of beauty quite as well as Silver Falls State Park. There’s no shortage of things to do here—at 9,000+ acres, it’s the largest state park in Oregon—but we recommend prioritizing the iconic Trail of Ten Falls, which stretches along a moss-drenched canyon and passes by the 177-foot South Falls waterfall.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach may just be the most beautiful place in all of Oregon—and one of the most beautiful places in the entire United States . The boulder-studded beach is an essential pit stop off Highway 101 (a road trip that rivals even California’s Highway 1), and seeing the 235-foot Haystack Rock protruding out of the water is worth the drive alone.

St. Johns Bridge, Portland

Portland is another example of a big city filled with (and surrounded by) natural beauty. And although it’s a manmade structure, the St. Johns Bridge is an excellent place to soak up some of the best views in town—especially if you can swing a visit during leaf-peeping season. While walking across the bridge is well worth your time, you can also get jaw-dropping views from the balcony at Occidental Brewing Co. , best paired with sausages and pilsners.

Painted Hills

Oregon’s natural sites are as diverse as they are beautiful, as proven by the Painted Hills in the north-central region of the state, which couldn’t be more different than the forests and rocky beaches found on the western coast. The NPS-protected spot is made up of varied stripes of red, tan, orange, and black (hence the art-inspired name), plus an array of leaf fossils aging up to 39 million years old.

Yaquina Head

Jutting into the Pacific Ocean on Oregon’s central coast, Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area definitely lives up to its name. The region’s tidal pools are indeed outstanding with starfish, anemones, and sea urchins in the waters below, and seals and sea lions sunbathing up top. But the real draw here has to be the panoramic coastline view from the 1870 Yaquina Head Lighthouse.

Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve

There are only about 20 International Dark Sky Association-recognized reserves in the entire world, so it was a pretty big deal when Idaho was inducted into the prestigious list back in 2017 . The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve is a sprawling, 1,400-acre chunk of land free from light pollution—which means visitors can view the Milky Way, planets, meteors, and even interstellar dust clouds. If you can brave the cold weather, consider a winter visit for clearer weather conditions, fewer crowds, and the opportunity to snowshoe under the stars.

Coeur d’Alene

Located in northwest Idaho, Coeur d’Alene is the lakeside retreat you’ve probably never visited—but we’re here to change that. Located on the natural lake of the same name, Coeur d’Alene has the perfect mix of natural and manmade attractions, with swimming and camping opportunities near the water, and tons of golf courses and restaurants closer to the city. The town is also home to our readers’ favorite hotel in the entire state: The Coeur d’Alene Resort , complete with a private beach and a whopping ten restaurants.

Bruneau Dunes State Park

Covering some 4,800 acres an hour south of Boise, Bruneau Dunes State Park feels a world away from civilization. The park is filled with small lakes and big dunes, including the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America (at 470 feet). Make a day and night out of your visit, starting with fishing and horseback riding and ending with some stargazing at the Bruneau Dunes Observatory.

Shoshone Falls

Dubbed the “Niagara Falls of the West,” the terraced Shoshone Falls drop 212 feet along the Snake River in southern Idaho. If you’re planning to visit, aim for the spring or summer when water levels are typically at their highest.

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12 Best Places to Visit on The Washington Coast

In this article, I want to share the 12 best places to visit on the Washington Coast. I’ve had the pleasure of traveling through about 90% of this area over several road trips and through that have seen amazing sights and I’m not just talking about the beaches (as you’ll soon see).

While I will also be covering the best beaches to see across Washington State further below, the main list you’re going to get here is really a mix of the best nature sights specifically throughout the Washington coast, so you will get a lot of variety of things to see rather than just one beautiful beach after another.

Here is a preview of the 12 places to visit on the Washington Coastline:

• La Push Beach
• Rialto Beach
• Cape Flattery
• Cape Disappointment
• Deception Pass
• Shi Shi Beach
• Lake Cresent
• Port Townsend Glass Beach
• Olympic National Park
• Tree of Life WA
• Salt Creek County Park

These 10 places are amazing for hikers, road trippers, people who love beaches, adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Here’s a Washington Coast map that’ll help you find these places:

This map should give you a good idea of where each place is located on the Washington Coast and help you plan a trip.

And in regards to planning a Washington coast road trip, here’s what I recommend:

• Start in Seattle if you plan to work your way west and then south (finish in Portland).
• Start in Portland (Oregon) if you wish to work your way up north, then east and finish in Seattle.
• A good amount of days to set for a trip like this would be 4-5 if you are maintaining a good pace (seeing one or more of the places on this list every day).

The details of each place to visit on the Washington west Coast:

Let’s start with La Push Beach.

La Push Beach:

I’m a huge fan of mountains, sea water and when you visit the west coast, specifically the Washington Coast, you’re going to see a lot of that. And La Push Beach is an awesome place to explore for many reasons (which frankly many of the beaches on this list also have) and that is:

• Beautiful beach in general.
• La Push has amazing sunsets.
• There are cliff areas for hiking (rope climbing too).
• There are connected “secret beaches” to it.
• It has one of the best beaches with waterfalls on the west coast called Third Beach Falls.

Update: There is a beautiful area 20-30 minutes south of it called Hoh rain forest which I highly recommend. It’s not on the coast but there are beautiful hikes there like the Hall of Mosses trail worth seeing.

Rialto Beach:

Rialto Beach is very close to La Push Beach and has a lot of awesome scenery (and obviously sunsets too). In fact, one of the most famous rocks on this beach looks like a small version of Cannon Beach which if you don’t know is one of the best places to visit on the Oregon Coast .

Technically, there is also more scenery in Rialto beach to check out than with La Push beach and that’s partly because being there will start you off on the Olympic Peninsula that runs across the west side of Olympic National Park . The Olympic Peninsula is itself one of the best things to explore on the Washington Coast, but it’s very long and many people take days to fully hike it, and just as well, many of the beaches on this list are also part of it, but I’m separating the specific spots instead of the whole Olympic Peninsula because it would take away from each beach’s unique highlights.

Cape Flattery:

The good news is that this spot is close to the one above and driving from Cape Flattery to Rialto beach (or vice versa) takes about 20 minutes to do, meaning you can fit these 2 destinations easily into a day trip. But anyway Cape Flattery should also be on your list because it’s on the tip of the Washington Coast (north west side of the US) and there are many amazing places to see there. Here’s just a small list of that:

• Sea cave kayaking (dangerous for beginners).
• Secret beaches in the area.
• There’s an old bunker there too.
• Scenic hikes in the area too (good tourist area).
• Cape Flattery might be the most scenic place on the entire Washington Coast.

Cape Disappointment Park WA:

If you start your road trip to the Washington Coast from Portland, then the first spot you’ll come across when you hit WA is Cape Disappointment. It is basically located near Astoria, which is close to Oregon’s state line. The picture you see here is from a popular section of Cape Disappointment. It’s called Deadman’s Cove and when I first visited this place, it was because I saw this exact image of it.

Not only that, but Cape Disappointment offers beautiful hikes, a scenic and simple walk to a famous lighthouse in the area and beautiful coastal views including giant waves you can see from these areas. My personal favorite there is Deadman’s Cove. Now here’s an important thing to know about it:

Deadman’s Cove has been closed the last few years. But you can still it from the main Cape Disappointment trail you can to check out the park. What’s specifically closed in this area is the hike down to the beach itself where you can get closer to this area.

Deception Pass:

Deception Pass is the only location of it’s kind on this list that is actually not on the Olympic Peninsula side of the Washington Coast (west coast), nor is it on the northern end either. Deception Pass is actually close to Seattle and is located on a series of islands (coastal area) close to the Salish sea which divides Washington and Vancouver Island.

It is officially part of the Washington Coast though and I have personally been there. It has a lot to offer from scenic drives, to kayaking across the islands there, camping, hiking and is also a great place for tourism in general. Some spots in Deception Pass do require you pay a fee to park.

Shi Shi Beach:

Shi Shi beach is in the Olympic Peninsula region of the Washington Coastline and it is also another one of the very beautiful beaches you’ll find on the coast (western side). Like many of the other options above, it isn’t far from Cape Flattery, Rialto Beach, Third Beach and so forth so again, you can totally make a day or multi day trip to these beaches as they are so close to each other and you can also choose to hike parts of them via the Olympic Peninsula trail available. The most notable things about this beach are that you can camp on it, there’s sea caves right by the beach you can find during low tide and the scenery is awesome too!

Lake Crescent (north Washington Coast):

Lake Crescent doesn’t sound like a spot you’d find on the Washington Coast, but it is literally right by the bay which divides Washington and Vancouver Island. Not since seeing the beautiful lakes of the Canadian Rockies have I been so floored by the scenery, but Lake Crescent really amazed me. So much so, that I made return visits to see it while I was in this region and I have yet to see all the best sights in this area alone. Here are some places within this region I recommend checking out:

• One of the best Washington waterfall hikes (Marymere Falls).
• Devils Punchbowl in Lake Crescent (bridge and swimming area).
• Bird feeding around the Marymere Falls trail area.
• Kayaking, swimming.
• Exploring waterfalls across the lake.
• The Sol Duc Falls trail is also a great hike to try nearby.
• The scenic drive across Crescent Lake (one of the best scenic drives in North America ).

In my opinion, the scenic drive alone is worth taking and there’s plenty of hikes and activities near by to do, since this Lake is part of the Olympic National Park area.

Port Townsend’s Glass Beach (and the town):

I originally thought that the Glass Beach in Port Townsend was the only good reason to visit this place and then after doing it personally, I was much more impressed by the town itself and with the many things to see and do there.

Now while this area does have sea glass, there’s actually another beach with even more sea glass like it but it’s located on the California Coast and it actually has even more of it (it’s even more famous). It’s called Glass Beach California . That is one I’ve visited 3 times so far and I do recommend seeing it too, but that’s only if you’re in that state.

As for Port Townsend itself, I do think it’s a great spot to explore while you’re on the north side of the Washington Coast because it has a good combination of many restaurants, great hikes, tourist places, historic areas, a nice lighthouse and great camping spots for both RVs and campers in general. I would even say that out of all the places I’ve seen throughout the north part of the Washington Coast, I would recommend staying in Port Townsend above all of them.

Ruby Beach:

Ruby Beach was one of the main spots I explored on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip and despite the weather not exactly being pleasant, I was the only person on this beach when I visited and I really enjoyed seeing this spot. It’s not far from Cape Flattery and is also well worth exploring.

One of the main attractions of this place besides the beach and scenery is all the logs and rivers that flow into the Pacific Ocean from it. I even saw some camping spots in between the logs (not that I would recommend doing that, I wouldn’t want to get crushed). But for the adventurer, I really think you’d like exploring Ruby Beach on the Washington Coast.

Olympic National Park (National Forest and Olympic Peninsula) overall:

Olympic National Park takes up a ton of area within Washington State and because it is right near the coastal areas of Washington State, it deserves a spot on this list. Many of the beaches on this list are actually part of it, and technically on the Olympic Peninsula like I said earlier, but deeper into the park itself (which in many cases is close to the coast), you will find many day hikes, lakes, waterfalls and tons of things to see and do. In my opinion doing a road trip through this park in addition to the specific coastal spots is a great way to mix things up and get more out of that trip.

I have included a link to an Olympic National Park article that’ll show you day hikes to check out there but one other thing to note is that there is also the Olympic National Forest that you can check out that’s further southeast of the Washington Coast. It has awesome hikes and places like High Steel Bridge that you can check out, but that technically takes you too far inland from the coast.

Tree of Life WA:

Another awesome Washington Coast gem you might want to consider checking out is the famous Tree of Life . It is located on the western Washington coast and is basically a tree whose trunk is exposed fully as there was massive erosion that removed the land underneath it. Now the Tree of Life’s roots are lodged in between 2 hills. I have not yet explored Kalaloch Beach yet, but that tree makes it worthwhile to see it in my opinion.

One thing to note about Kalaloch Beach is that there are several parts of and in numbers you can check out which include parts of the beach, campgrounds, a cabin and more. Fortunately if you’re just looking for the Tree of Life , there is a Google listing for it within the Kalaloch Beach area that I linked to above for your reference. This area is right off the 101 road so its easy to find and check out what else is around there.

Salt Creek County Park:

Salt Creek County Park is a Washington Coast gem I recently learned about and even “worse” missed every time I have traveled to the area. It happens to be very close to Port Angeles and also Lake Crescent and that’s where I stay whenever I visit the area. Salt Creek County Park is literally a 10 minute drive from it and it’s only thanks to Instagram that I discovered it.

And I’m happy to admit that I’ll soon fix this as I’m planning to revisit this region and check it off. It’s a very small but extremely beautiful park that has many elements of the beauty you’d see on the western end of the Washington Coast.

There are also many hikes, boating and other things to do there. In many ways this small park reminds me a ton about Presque Isle State Park that I discovered in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan a few years ago (small park, lots to see).

For what it’s worth I tend to compare a lot of areas I visit when I travel and the Washington Coast in many ways reminds me of the North Shore MN more so than the Oregon Coast.

What about a list of the best beaches in Washington State? My top picks:

I have obviously not been to every single beach in Washington State but there are 3 parts (western, northern and eastern ones) and I have included a “small list” and map of the areas worth seeing. Some of them are repeats:

Best beaches on the western Washington Coast:

I really like Third Beach because of the waterfall, Rialto Beach because of the sights and Ruby Beach because it was the first real beach I saw when I was in the Washington Coast (and it’s beautiful).

Best beaches on the northern Washington coast:

Any beach in Salt Creek County Park is amazing, Devils Punchbowl in Lake Crescent is an amazing spot (lake beach), and so is Port Townsend for the sea glass.

Best beaches on the eastern coast of Washington:

Deception Pass is good as it has many beaches, the beach in Fort Ebey State Park (so far). I have also included other highly reviewed Washington beaches on a map for more options.

Have questions about visiting the Washington Coast? The most popular ones:

What is considered the Washington Coast?

The western side of WA that faces the Pacific Ocean is considered the Washington Coast. It starts from Cape Disappointment all the way up to Cape Flattery and is over 400 miles.

Does Washington have any beaches?

Yes there are dozens of popular beaches across Washington State, especially the coast.

What are major cities in Washington Coastal region?

There are over 20 on the Washington Coast and the major cities on it include Everett, Friday Harbor and Cape Flattery.

Is Seattle a coastal city?

Yes Seattle is a coastal city because it is close to Elliot Bay.

Now the questions here about the beaches and places to visit don’t always align with what I recommend seeing on the Washington Coast so keep this in mind.

Do you need to wear anything specific when hiking along the Washington Coast?

It depends on which areas you visit. Most of the spots along the shore have their own walkways and simple hikes to the beach but there are certainly options for more difficult hikes that I would recommend specific gear for (recommendations coming soon).

As for visiting nearby coastal states, since Oregon is the closest, I would recommend to check out the Oregon Coast too if you have the time!

Hi I'm Vitaliy, I love nature travel and this blog encapsulates all of my adventures and top recommendations of what to see (and what to avoid).

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Love your site. Great advice, great recommendations Love the comparisons you make along with alternatives to crowded hiking trails and destinations. Would love to see your recommendations for hot springs in the western states. I’ve shared your site with many of my hiking friends.

Hi Kimberly thank you for the kind words and sharing the site info. Regarding hot springs, I honestly haven’t explored too many of them yet but thus far I have one article on the best hot springs in Oregon you can check out. I’m not sure about Washington or California, but Oregon and Nevada have a lot of them. If you have any other info you’d like me to cover, let me know!

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What's expected at Japanese PM Kishida's US visit? A major upgrade in defense ties

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is making an official visit to the United States this week

TOKYO -- Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is making an official visit to the United States this week. He will hold a summit with President Joe Biden that's meant to achieve a major upgrading of their defense alliance.

He will also join a first-ever summit of the U.S., Japan ese and Philippine leaders in Washington to showcase their cooperation in the face of an increasingly assertive China .

The Associated Press explains the significance of Kishida’s visit and the two summits.

The biggest event during the weeklong trip is his summit with Biden on Wednesday. Kishida hopes to further strengthen the alliance as China's influence grows in the Indo-Pacific.

Kishida is also reaching out to the American public to showcase Japan’s contribution to the U.S. economy and ensure stable relations regardless of who wins the U.S. presidential election later this year.

Kishida, who has pushed sweeping changes fortifying Japan’s defense capabilities since taking office in 2021, will emphasize that Japan and the U.S. are now global partners working to maintain a rules-based international order, and that Japan is willing to take on a greater international role in security, economy and space to help Washington.

Expanding arms equipment and technology cooperation between the two countries and other like-minded partners is also highly important, Kishida on Friday told selected media, including AP.

Kishida, stung by a corruption scandal, needs a successful U.S. visit to shore up low support ratings at home.

As a state guest, Kishida will be welcomed in a White House arrival ceremony on the South Lawn, a formal state dinner and other official events. He is the fifth state guest of Biden, who has also hosted leaders of India, Australia , South Korea and France, underscoring America’s focus on Indo-Pacific security partnerships.

Kishida is the first Japanese leader to make a state visit since Shinzo Abe in 2015. Abe made a major revision to the interpretation of Japan’s pacifist Constitution, allowing its self-defense-only principle to also cover its ally, the United States.

Defense tops the agenda because of growing worries about threats from China, North Korea and Russia. Chinese coast guard ships regularly approach disputed Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands near Taiwan. Beijing says Taiwan is part of its territory and will be brought under control by force if necessary.

There are also worries about North Korean nuclear and missile threats and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Kishida has warned that the war in Europe could lead to conflict in East Asia, suggesting that a lax attitude to Russia emboldens China.

“While we maintain the Japan-U.S. alliance as a cornerstone, we believe it is important to cooperate with like-minded countries, including the Philippines,” Kishida said.

Biden and Kishida are expected to agree on a plan to modernize their military command structures so they can better operate together. America stations 50,000 troops in Japan. The Japanese Self Defense Force is preparing to restructure so it has a unified command for ground, air and naval forces by March 2025.

Also expected are new initiatives for defense industry cooperation, including co-production of weapons, possibly a new missile, and the repair and maintenance of American warships and other equipment in Japan to help U.S. operations in the western Pacific.

Japan’s possible participation in a U.S.-U.K.-Australia security partnership to develop and share advanced military capabilities, including artificial intelligence , electronic warfare and hypersonics, may also come up.

Kishida and Biden are also expected to confirm Japan’s participation in NASA’s Artemis moon program and its contribution of a moon rover developed by Toyota Motor Corp. and the inclusion of a Japanese astronaut. The rover, which comes at a roughly $2 billion cost, is the most expensive contribution to the mission by a non-U.S. partner to date, a U.S. official said.

Since adopting a more expansive national security strategy in 2022, Kishida’s government has taken bold steps to accelerate Japan’s military buildup. He hopes to show Tokyo is capable of elevating its security cooperation with the U.S. Kishida has pledged to double defense spending and boost deterrence against China, which Japan considers a top security threat.

Japan, working to acquire what it calls a “counterstrike” capability, has purchased 400 U.S. Tomahawk long-range cruise missiles. After prohibiting almost all weapons transfers, it has relaxed export guidelines twice in recent months, allowing the sale of lethal weapons to countries from which they were licensed and the overseas sales of a fighter jet it’s co-developing with the U.K. and Italy. The changes have allowed Japan to ship Japanese-made PAC-3 missiles to the U.S. to help replace those contributed by Washington to Ukraine.

The first-ever trilateral summit between Biden, Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. comes as the Philippines faces escalating maritime tension with China over their contested South China Sea claims.

Biden wants to show that the three maritime democracies are unified as they face aggressive Chinese action against the Philippine coast guard and its supply vessels off the disputed Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, according to a senior Biden administration official.

Japan has sold coastal radars to the Philippines and is now negotiating a defense agreement that would allow their troops to visit each other’s turf for joint military exercises.

The trilateral comes eight months after Biden hosted a meeting with leaders from Japan and South Korea at Camp David.

“Cooperation among our three countries are extremely important in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and in defending a free and open international order based on the rules of law,” Kishida said Monday before leaving for Washington.

Kishida also wants to highlight Japan’s economic contributions in the U.S. There is growing uncertainty in Tokyo about U.S. elections, reflected by questions about what happens if former President Donald Trump wins, though experts say there is a bipartisan consensus on a stronger U.S.-Japan alliance.

Kishida will meet with business leaders and visit Toyota’s electric vehicle battery factory under construction for a planned launch in 2025, and Honda’s business jet subsidiary in North Carolina. He will also meet students at North Carolina State University on Friday.

In his congressional speech on Thursday, Kishida said he plans to convey “what Japan and the United States want to hand down to future generations and what we need to do for them.”

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2024 solar eclipse map: Where to see the eclipse on April 8

These 2024 solar eclipse maps will help you make the best decision about where and how to watch the total solar eclipse on Monday (April 8).

It's finally here: Today, (April 8) a total solar eclipse will pass across the skies North America, giving more than 33 million people living in 15 U.S. states a rare view of the totally-obstructed sun, and — weather permitting — a taste of some seriously strange eclipse phenomena .

If you’re wondering where the total and partial phases of the eclipse will be visible, the good news is that almost everyone in the contiguous U.S. will be able to see the celestial spectacle to some extent. But for a more detailed view of the eclipse’s path, take a look at these handy eclipse maps, courtesy of GreatAmericanEclipse.com. 

Solar eclipse 2024 path of totality map

Totality is the moment that every eclipse-chaser lives for: The moment when the moon completely covers the sun’s face, resulting in a brief but eerie darkness in the daytime. The path of totality , shown in the map above, is the path of the moon’s shadow across Earth’s surface. 

On Monday (April 8), totality will begin in Sinaloa, Mexico, then move northeast up to Texas, ultimately crossing 15 states before moving on to Canada. The states where totality will be visible are: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine — although Tennessee and Michigan will only be glanced by the moon's shadow.

Related: April 8 solar eclipse: What time does totality start in every state?

Viewers MUST be within the path of totality to witness the total phase of the eclipse; if you are off the path by even a mile, you will only see a partial eclipse, and miss out on the spooky daytime darkness. Furthermore, the closer you are to the center of the path of totality, the longer totality will last for you — up to a maximum duration of 4 minutes, 27 seconds in Torreón, Mexico.

Note: Totality is the ONLY TIME when it is safe to view the sun without protective eyewear like certified solar eclipse glasses . You must protect your eyes during the entire partial phase of the eclipse, no matter where you are.

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Solar eclipse 2024 partial eclipse map

If you live in the U.S. and can’t make it to the path of totality, a partial eclipse still awaits you on April 8. The entire contiguous U.S. will have some view of the partial eclipse, ranging from 99% coverage of the sun just off the path of totality to about 15% coverage far to the northwest of the path.

The map above shows how much of the sun’s disk will be blocked from your location. Watching the partial phases of the eclipse — which last about an hour and 20 minutes before and after totality — means wearing protective eyewear at all times. Failure to do so could result in permanent eye damage, according to NASA .

If you want to experience the celestial spectacle but don’t have a pair of eclipse glasses handy, there are many other ways to safely enjoy the partial eclipse . These include making a homemade pinhole projector , using a pasta strainer to project the shadow of the moon onto the ground or watching one of the various eclipse live streams available.

2024 eclipse travel maps

If you want to see totality but don’t live within the path, driving or taking public transit to a city within the path may be possible. The map above shows how far the drive is to the path of totality, based on where you’re coming from. Meanwhile, the map below shows the most populated cities within the path of totality — many of which are expected to be flooded with millions of eclipse tourists on April 8.

The biggest cities within the path of totality include: San Antonio, Dallas, Austin and Fort Worth in Texas; Indianapolis, Indiana; Hamilton and Montreal in Canada; and Torreón and Mazatlan in Mexico.

Wherever you are on April 8, we wish you clear skies and protected eyes during this rare, wondrous eclipse over North America.

Brandon is the space/physics editor at Live Science. His writing has appeared in The Washington Post, Reader's Digest, CBS.com, the Richard Dawkins Foundation website and other outlets. He holds a bachelor's degree in creative writing from the University of Arizona, with minors in journalism and media arts. He enjoys writing most about space, geoscience and the mysteries of the universe.

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region.

Emily Alfin Johnson

Visitors look through a pair of oversized eclipse glasses set up in the town square on Sunday in Houlton, Maine. Joe Raedle/Getty Images hide caption

Visitors look through a pair of oversized eclipse glasses set up in the town square on Sunday in Houlton, Maine.

On Monday, a solar eclipse will cross from Texas to Maine, putting over 30 million people in the path of totality , with a partial eclipse visible briefly for millions more.

Monday's weather forecast for the path of totality

Totality in the U.S. starts around 1:30 p.m. CT/2:30 ET and continues until 2:30 p.m. CT/3:30 p.m. ET, lasting for a few minutes in each location.

The folks at NASA have a detailed breakdown for anyone in the U.S. Just pop in your ZIP code .

If you're lucky enough to find yourself in the path of totality, you can also find a minute-by-minute breakdown of when totality begins in your area, here.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

• Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans?  Check out these  kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides  from Vermont Public's  But Why,  and this great explainer from KERA Kids on  the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse .
• Feeling whimsical?  Here are three ways to  sprinkle a little magic into your eclipse experience .
• Plan to wander into the wild for the best view?   Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
• Tips from Bill Nye  on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time.

Solar eclipse 2024 live updates: See latest weather forecast, what time it hits your area

It's finally here.

After years of buildup and anticipation, the Great North American Eclipse will occur today: This afternoon, a  total eclipse of the sun  will appear in the skies above the U.S., all the way from southern Texas to northern Maine.

The  rare event  − where the shadow of the moon plunges a narrow strip of land into darkness in the middle of the day − is an astronomical experience like no other that will be unusually accessible to millions of people.

That is, if the weather cooperates. Here are all the details and the latest forecast:

What time is the 2024 solar eclipse?

The total eclipse will begin in Mexico at about 11:07 a.m. PDT, Monday before crossing into Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. It will end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT. The partial eclipse will last for awhile longer. Even if you're not in the path of totality and won't see the full eclipse, you may still see a percentage of it.

To find out exactly when the eclipse will be happening in your area, you can search by  USA TODAY's database by ZIP code  for a viewing guide.

Eclipse weather forecast: Where will there be clear skies?

Surprisingly, weatherwise, the best spot for viewing the eclipse today is expected to be northern New England, specifically northern portions of Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont, according to the Weather Prediction Center .

Skywatchers in northern Maine were celebrating Monday morning, as clear skies were reported across the state. "Viewing conditions look excellent," the weather service in Caribou, Maine, said. In northern Vermont, an approaching deck of clouds was keeping both eclipse chasers and meteorologists on edge: "It willbe a close one in regards to eclipse viewing," the weather service in Burlington, Vermont, reported Monday morning.

Elsewhere, clear skies are also "possible" from northern Arkansas to central Indiana, the weather service said, but the potential for high clouds could impact the view there.

Where will it be cloudy or stormy for the eclipse?

As predicted, skies were cloudy across much of central and southern Texas on Monday morning, a precursor to some potentially severe weather that could rumble across the state later in the day, forecasters said. Monday morning, both San Antonio and Austin reported overcast skies, while Dallas-Fort Worth had mostly cloudy skies, according to the National Weather Service.

"A high probability of poor eclipse viewing conditions continues for nearly all of South-Central Texas for midday today," the weather service said.

Farther north, folks in big cities in the path of totality such as Indianapolis and Cleveland were anxiously hanging on every forecast update. In Indianapolis, the forecast looked good: Only some scattered high clouds were expected during the eclipse. Weather service meteorologist Joseph Nield said, "We're cautiously optimistic that things are looking pretty good for us."

In Cleveland, unwelcome light rain was reported Monday morning, but improving weather and partly sunny skies were predicted for eclipse time.

Poor viewing conditions also were expected from Missouri and Kansas,  AccuWeather said . Weather.com said areas with the highest chance of rain include parts of Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee. The  Weather Prediction Center  said clouds may also impede viewing across Ohio, northwest Pennsylvania and parts of New York.

"Multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms should develop from early afternoon Monday through Tuesday morning across a large portion of Texas, into south Oklahoma, southwest Arkansas, and west Louisiana," the  Storm Prediction Center  said. "A few tornadoes, scattered large to very large hail, and isolated severe wind gusts will be possible."

What is the difference between a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse?

A  total solar eclipse  occurs when the moon comes in between the Earth and the sun, blocking its light from reaching our planet, leading to a period of darkness lasting several minutes. A total lunar eclipse occurs when the moon and the sun are on exact opposite sides of Earth. The Earth blocks the sunlight that normally reaches the moon. Instead of that sunlight hitting the moon’s surface, Earth's shadow falls on it.

A lunar eclipse can last for a few hours, while a solar eclipse lasts only a few minutes. Solar eclipses also rarely occur, while lunar eclipses are comparatively more frequent. While at least two partial lunar eclipses happen every year, total lunar eclipses are still rare, NASA says. Another major difference: No special glasses or gizmos are needed to view the a lunar eclipse, and people can directly stare at the moon.

− Saman Shafiq

Solar eclipse, lunar eclipse: What is the difference?

Can you drive during the solar eclipse?

The  2024 solar eclipse  will shroud much of the United States in darkness on Monday, leaving many people to wonder: Is it safe to drive during the solar eclipse?

It is safe to drive during an eclipse as long as you don't look up at the sky. AAA is telling drivers to be focused on the road if they are operating a car during the total solar eclipse. But the automobile insurance company is advising Americans who want to safely view the total eclipse to "find a safe place to park (not on the side of a road or highway) away from other traffic and then wear your eclipse glasses," said Aixa Diaz, a spokeswoman from AAA.

"Pack your patience, whether traveling a great distance or locally," Diaz said. "People will be out and about to catch a glimpse of the eclipse."

A similar scenario  played out in 2017 during the nation's last total solar eclipse : Congestion in some areas lasted for up to 13 hours after totality,  according to Transportation Research News , a National Research Council publication. An analysis of traffic patterns from that year suggests the worst of the traffic – on interstates and rural back roads alike – will kick off after the eclipse ends and everyone tries to leave all at once.

− Kayla Jimenez

When will the next solar eclipse happen?

It will be 20 years before there's a chance to  witness a total solar eclipse  in the United States again. According to NASA, after Monday's total solar  eclipse , the next one viewable from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Unfortunately, the 2044 total  solar eclipse  won't have the broad reach across the U.S. as the 2024 eclipse. The path of totality during the 2044 eclipse will only touch three states, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy. The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

But another eclipse scheduledfor Saturday, Aug. 12, 2045, will trace a path of totality over California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida and Georgia.

− Mary Walrath-Holdridge, Gabe Hauari and Eric Lagatta

Eclipse and pets: It's not the sky that's the problem

An  eclipse  itself isn't dangerous for domestic animals such as dogs and cats, but experts say it's probably best to not bring pets to  experience the April 2024 total solar eclipse . Experts' biggest concern is not what’s happening in the sky but on the ground as crowds of excited and  eager people gather , said Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. Dogs especially will take their cues from their owners rather than  the celestial event.

“Rather than the effects of the eclipse, I would be more worried about the excitement and all of the people,” Carlson said.

− Elizabeth Weise

A guide to the solar eclipse for kids

Here's an easy-to read, illustrated guide to help kids understand what the  April 8 total solar eclipse  means, where it will be visible and how you can watch it safely. It also shows them how an ordinary kitchen colander can easily be used to view a solar eclipse − the colander's holes can project crescent images of the sun onto the ground. There are even pages that can be downloaded and colored.

Trump's eclipse experience lit up internet in 2017

Seven years ago, when the last  total solar eclipse  crossed over North America, a photo of then-President Donald Trump  seemingly gazing at the sun with his naked eyes set the internet ablaze . During the afternoon of Aug. 21, 2017, Trump, who was president at the time, was joined by then first lady Melania Trump and their son Barron  to watch the rare phenomenon from the Truman Balcony  at the White House. Photos taken by members of the media captured all three donning eclipse glasses while looking at the eclipse.

But at one point during the viewing, the former president was captured in photos and videos without proper eye protection, seemingly gazing directly at the sun. Looking at an eclipse before or after the brief phase of totality without proper eyewear  can lead to eye damage .

− Natalie Neysa Alund

When is the next total solar eclipse? What to know about the next eclipse's path, timing

How to make a solar eclipse viewer

People who didn't manage to get their  hands on glasses  are not completely down and out. There are other safe ways to view the eclipse , say experts, and a lot of them only require a little bit of craftiness and items you can find lying around the house.

Steps to make the cereal box eclipse viewer (And here is a video aid) :

• Get an empty, clean cereal box.
• Cut a white piece of cardboard that will fit snuggly in the bottom of the box, or secure it permanently by gluing it in place.
• Cut the top of the cereal box, removing both ends and leaving the center intact.
• Put a piece of tape across the center of the top to securely hold it closed.
• Tape a piece of heavy-duty foil or double a single layer for additional strength, covering one of the openings at the top of the cereal box. The other opening will remain open for viewing.
• Using a small nail (approximately 3mm in diameter) push a hole in the foil.
• Cover the entire box with construction paper, leaving the single-viewing opening and the foil uncovered.

The finished box should be held with the pin-hole side facing the sun. It may take a little practice pointing the box. With your back facing the sun, look through the viewing opening. A small image of the sun, about ½ cm in diameter, can be seen projected on the white paper inside the box.

− Mary Walrath-Holdrid

What is the path of the solar eclipse called?

Those in the direct line of the eclipse will be treated to an incredible sight as the moon completely blots out the sun's disk, ushering in uncharacteristic darkness and revealing the sun's elusive outermost layer called the corona. That moment is called "totality" and this year the path of totality crosses through 13 U.S. states.

The last total solar eclipse to cut through North America was in August 2017.

How to look at eclipse without glasses

A total solar eclipse offers skygazers the rare opportunity to witness the eclipse with the naked eye. However,  solar eclipse glasses  are still needed until totality is reached. 

Certified solar eclipse  glasses are crucial for spectators to avoid the sun's retina-damaging rays. But when the moon moves completely in front of the sun and blocks its light, you'll know it's  safe to remove the glasses  for a short period of time.

How fast does an eclipse shadow travel?

According to a post from the  National Weather Service  in Indianapolis on X, an eclipse shadow travels at speeds from 1,100 to 5,000 mph. Near the equator, it travels at around 1,100 mph and increases in speed as it approaches the poles.

The eclipse party is over? Time to recycle those glasses!

Astronomers Without Borders , or AWB, a non-profit organization running its second nationwide  eclipse glasses recycling drive . Her business will join over 300 schools, museums, city governments, commercial businesses, community organizations and local libraries that will collect and ship an estimated  millions of glasses  to be repurposed for use by underserved communities around the world in  future solar eclipses .

AWB launched its first run of the program after the last solar eclipse in 2017 when volunteer centers across the country collected millions of the glass. After vetting them for reuse, more than  half a million glasses were distributed to Africa, Asia and South America.

People can visit  AWB's website  to find their nearest participating collection center and learn more about recycling the glasses, said Andrew Fazekas, the organization's communication manager.  

"We figure there's probably going to be tens of millions of glasses out there at the very least," he said. "And most of them are probably very gently used."

− Cybele Mayes-Osterman

Watch CBS News

What time the 2024 solar eclipse starts, reaches peak totality and ends today

By Sarah Maddox

April 8, 2024 / 6:30 AM EDT / CBS News

The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the surface from west to east at more than 1,500 miles per hour along the path of totality . 

That means the eclipse will start, peak and end at different times — as will the moments of total darkness along the path of totality — and the best time to view the eclipse depends on where you are located. Some places along the path will have more totality time than others.

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean before the shadow falls across North America, beginning in parts of Mexico. The path of totality , where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety ), is expected to first make landfall near the city of Mazatlán around 9:51 a.m. MT. 

The total solar eclipse will cross over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, where it will emerge over Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT.

In Dallas, NASA data shows the partial eclipse will first become visible at 12:23 p.m. CT. The next states in the path of totality are Oklahoma and Arkansas, where the eclipse begins in Little Rock at 12:33 p.m. CT. 

Cleveland will see the beginning of the eclipse at 1:59 p.m. ET. Darkness will start spreading over the sky in Buffalo, New York, at 2:04 p.m. ET. Then, the eclipse will reach northwestern Vermont, including Burlington, at 2:14 p.m. ET. Parts of New Hampshire and Maine will also follow in the path of totality before the eclipse reaches the Canadian mainland  at 3:13 p.m. ET.

Although the experience won't be exactly the same, viewers in all the contiguous U.S. states outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse. Some places will see most of the sun blocked by the moon, including Washington, D.C., where the partial eclipse will start at 2:04 p.m. ET.  

New York City will also see a substantial partial eclipse, beginning at 2:10 p.m. ET. 

In Chicago, viewers can start viewing the partial eclipse at 12:51 p.m. CT. 

In Detroit, viewers will be able to enjoy a near-total eclipse beginning at 1:58 p.m. ET, and in Boston it will begin at 2:16 p.m. ET.

The below table by NASA shows when the eclipse will start, peak and end in 13 cities along the eclipse's path.

What time will the solar eclipse reach peak totality?

Millions more people will have the chance to witness the total solar eclipse this year than during the last total solar eclipse , which was visible from the U.S. in 2017. 

The eclipse's peak will mean something different for cities within the path of totality and for those outside. Within the path of totality, darkness will fall for a few minutes. The longest will last more than 4 minutes, but most places will see between 3.5 and 4 minutes of totality. In cities experiencing a partial eclipse, a percentage of the sun will be obscured for more than two hours.

Mazatlán is set to experience totality at 11:07 am PT. Dallas will be able to see the moon fully cover the sun at 1:40 p.m. CT. Little Rock will start to see the full eclipse at 1:51 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 3:13 p.m. ET and Buffalo at 3:18 p.m. ET. Totality will reach Burlington at 3:26 p.m. ET before moving into the remaining states and reaching Canada around 4:25 p.m.

Outside the path of totality, 87.4% of the sun will be eclipsed in Washington, D.C. at 3:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago will have maximum coverage of 93.9% at 2:07 p.m. CT. New York City is much closer to the path of totality this year than it was in 2017; it will see 89.6% coverage at 3:25 p.m. EDT. 

Detroit is another city that will encounter a near-total eclipse, with 99.2% maximum coverage at 3:14 p.m. ET. Boston will see 92.4% coverage at 3:29 p.m. ET.

What time will the solar eclipse end?

The eclipse will leave continental North America from Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NT, according to NASA.

At the beginning of the path of totality in Mazatlán, the eclipse will be over by 12:32 p.m. PT, and it will leave Dallas at 3:02 p.m. CT. The eclipse will end in Little Rock at 3:11 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 4:29 p.m. CDT and Buffalo at 4:32 p.m. ET. Burlington won't be far behind, with the eclipse concluding at 4:37 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, the viewing will end in Chicago at 3:21 p.m. CT, Washington, D.C. at 4:32 p.m. ET, and New York City at 4:36 p.m. ET. 

In Detroit, the partial eclipse will disappear at 4:27 p.m. ET, and in Boston, it will be over at 4:39 p.m. ET.

How long will the eclipse last in total?

The total solar eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PT and leave continental North America at 5:16 p.m. NT. From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the celestial show will dazzle viewers for about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com . 

The length of the total solar eclipse at points along the path depends on the viewing location. The longest will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, northwest of Torreón, Mexico. Near the center of the path, totality takes place for the longest periods of time, according to NASA.

Spectators will observe totality for much longer today than during the 2017 eclipse , when the longest stretch of totality was 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

The moon's shadow seen on Earth today, called the umbra, travels at more than 1,500 miles per hour, according to NASA. It would move even more quickly if the Earth rotated in the opposite direction.

What is the longest a solar eclipse has ever lasted?

The longest known totality was 7 minutes and 28 seconds in 743 B.C. However, NASA says this record will be broken in 2186 with a 7 minute, 29 second total solar eclipse. The next total solar eclipse visible from parts of the U.S. won't happen until Aug. 23, 2044.

Sarah Maddox has been with CBS News since 2019. She works as an associate producer for CBS News Live.

More from CBS News

How often do total solar eclipses happen?

When is the next total solar eclipse in the U.S. after today?

Is it safe to take pictures of the solar eclipse with your phone?

When was the last total solar eclipse in the U.S.? Revisiting 2017

Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.