Day Trips from Seattle, WA

Location:

Bellingham, WA

Highlights:

If you’re craving fresh air, epic mountain views, and that classic PNW vibe, Bellingham is an easy favorite—just a quick road trip from Seattle. It’s the kind of place where you can hike in the morning and catch a waterfront sunset by dinner.

We Recommend This For:

Outdoor enthusiasts, road trippers, families, seafood lovers, and anyone who wants a mix of adventure and small-town charm.

What we Love:

Access to Mt. Baker for skiing, summer fishing and hiking, local galleries and museums, and a packed events calendar that brings the community together year-round.

• Explore the city’s trails, lakes, and mountains for hiking, fishing, skiing, and golfing.
• Visit in April for the annual seafood festival or in August for the six-day community fair.
• Browse Bellingham’s local art scene through its many galleries and cultural museums.
• Stop by the Visitor Center at 904 Potter St. for help planning your perfect itinerary.

Distance from Seattle:

Expect the drive to take around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

How to Get to Bellingham:

Head north on I-5 from Seattle for approximately 90 miles. Bellingham is just south of the Canadian border, and the drive is scenic the whole way.

Plan ahead for these Bellingham Events:
- Ski to Sea - May
- Bellingham SeaFeast - Saturday & Sunday October
- Fairhaven Winterfest - from late November to late December

Location:

Bainbridge Island, WA

Highlights:

If you ever need a quick escape from Seattle that feels like a total reset, hop the ferry to Bainbridge. It’s all mountain views, charming shops, and fresh island air the second you step off the boat.

We Recommend This For:

Seattle day-trippers, couples, wine and craft spirits lovers, nature walkers, and fans of small-town charm with a touch of luxury.

What we Love:

Sweeping views of Mount Rainier and the Olympics, boutique wineries and distilleries, easy hikes, and the postcard-perfect village of Winslow.

• Sip your way through artisan wineries, an organic distillery, and a local brewery.
• Stroll through the village of Winslow—just a short walk from the ferry—with its indie shops, restaurants, and waterfront park.
• Hike peaceful trails and explore lush parks across the island.
• Discover local history at unique cultural sites scattered throughout the area.

Distance from Seattle:

About a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown.

How to Get to Bainbridge Island:

Take the ferry from Seattle’s Colman Dock (Pier 52). Once you arrive, Winslow and other attractions are walkable or reachable by car or bike.

Location:

Mount Rainier National Park, WA

Highlights:

Need a nature fix that’ll blow your mind and clear your head? Mount Rainier is the ultimate Seattle escape—just you, the mountain, and views that don’t quit.

We Recommend This For:

Hikers, climbers, families, photographers, and anyone looking to explore one of the most iconic natural wonders in the Pacific Northwest.

What we Love:

Jaw-dropping glacier views, wildflower meadows, epic hiking trails, and multiple visitor centers to help plan your day.

• Hike scenic trails ranging from short walks to challenging alpine climbs.
• Climb for a real adventure—Rainier is one of the most popular mountaineering destinations in the U.S.
• Visit one of several visitor centers for maps, exhibits, food, and ranger tips.
• Stay the night with options for campgrounds and backcountry permits—don’t forget your park pass.

Distance from Seattle:

Around 2 hours by car, depending on which entrance you choose.

How to Get to Mount Rainier National Park:

From Seattle, take I-5 south to WA-7 or WA-161 for the Nisqually or Paradise entrances. Plan ahead, especially during peak summer weekends when parking fills early.

Location:

Snoqualmie, WA

Highlights:

When you want to impress out-of-towners—or just escape the city for a few hours—Snoqualmie Falls is a no-fail favorite. It’s dramatic, easy to reach, and always makes you pause and take a deep breath.

We Recommend This For:

Day-trippers, photographers, nature lovers, accessibility-conscious travelers, and anyone craving a peaceful but powerful experience.

What we Love:

The thunderous 270-foot falls, scenic overlooks, free entry, and the cozy charm of Salish Lodge & Spa right next door.

• View the falls from an accessible observation deck or stroll the short hiking trail to the lower viewpoint.
• Dine at the Salish Lodge restaurant—especially for the iconic pancakes with syrup poured from on high.
• Relax at the picnic area, grab a coffee, or stop by the gift shop.
• Enjoy free admission, public restrooms, and free parking, all just 45 minutes from Seattle.

Distance from Seattle:

About a 45-minute drive east.

How to Get to Snoqualmie Falls:

Take I-90 East to Exit 27. Turn left and follow Snoqualmie Parkway for about 4 miles to the falls. Look for signs—parking is clearly marked and easy to find.

Location:

Mukilteo, WA

Highlights:

If you're into engineering marvels or just want to see something totally jaw-dropping, the Boeing Factory Tour is worth the drive. It's one of those only-in-Washington experiences that’ll make you see airplanes—and innovation—in a whole new way.

We Recommend This For:

Aviation geeks, families with curious teens, STEM lovers, out-of-town visitors, and anyone fascinated by massive machines and behind-the-scenes access.

What we Love:

The scale of the factory floor, the up-close view of iconic jet production, and the deep dive into Boeing's aerospace legacy.

• Tour the world’s largest building by volume and witness 747, 777, and 787 Dreamliners in production.
• Learn about Boeing’s history and future at the Future of Flight Aviation Center.
• Reserve in advance—tours run daily and often sell out quickly.
• Experience a 90-minute guided journey that begins and ends at the Future of Flight.

Distance from Seattle:

About a 40-minute drive north, depending on traffic.

How to Get to the Boeing Factory Tour:

Drive north on I-5 and take Exit 189 toward WA-526 West. Follow signs to the Future of Flight Aviation Center at 8415 Paine Field Blvd, Mukilteo, WA 98275.

Romantic Day Trips from Seattle, WA:

Location:

Lakewood, WA

Highlights:

If you’re craving some peace and beauty without going too far from Seattle, Lakewold Gardens is a total hidden gem. It’s where formal garden design meets Northwest tranquility—perfect for a quiet afternoon or a special event.

We Recommend This For:

Garden lovers, photographers, wedding planners, nature nerds, and anyone in need of a calm, artful escape.

What we Love:

The sculpted boxwoods, trickling alpine stream, colorful rhododendrons, and the chance to take a class or rent the grounds for your own celebration.

• Wander 10 acres of beautifully curated gardens, including waterfalls, sculpted hedges, and seasonal blooms.
• Take a gardening class—offered year-round with special pricing for members.
• Shop the on-site gift boutique for garden-inspired finds.
• Book the grounds for weddings, meetings, or reserve a group tour in advance.

Distance from Seattle:

Around 50 minutes south by car.

How to Get to Lakewold Gardens:

Take I-5 South to Gravelly Lake Dr SW (Exit 124). Turn right and follow the road about 1.5 miles to 12317 Gravelly Lake Dr SW, Lakewood, WA 98499.

Location:

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, WA

Highlights:

If you’ve ever wanted to stand in the shadow of a volcano and really *feel* the power of nature, Mount St. Helens delivers. It’s surreal, humbling, and surprisingly easy to reach from Seattle for a bold day trip or weekend adventure.

We Recommend This For:

Volcano buffs, hikers, geology lovers, photographers, and anyone who remembers the 1980 eruption—or wants to see its lasting impact firsthand.

What we Love:

Panoramic viewpoints like Windy Ridge, the haunting beauty of Spirit Lake, and the opportunity to hike inside a real volcanic crater (with a permit!).

• Explore 110,000 acres set aside for education, research, and outdoor recreation.
• Drive to scenic spots like Windy Ridge for views of Spirit Lake and the blast zone.
• Hike one of the many trails—ranging from short nature walks to strenuous climbs.
• Climb to the summit with a special permit (advance reservations required due to daily limits).

Distance from Seattle:

Around 2.5 to 3 hours by car.

How to Get to Mount St. Helens:

Take I-5 South to Exit 49, then head east on Spirit Lake Highway (WA-504). Visitor centers and viewpoints are well-marked along the route to Windy Ridge.

Recommended Mount St. Helens Tours:

• Seattle: Mt. St. Helens National Monument Small Group Tour – Price: From $344 per person.
• Portland: The Mt. St. Helens Adventure Tour – Spend a full day crawling, climbing, and hiking with your professional guide. Price: From $319 per person.
• From Seattle: Mount Saint Helens Monument Private Day Trip – This private tour starting in Seattle takes you to one of Washington State's five volcanoes. Price: From $391 per person.

Location:

Cle Elum, WA

Highlights:

If you're itching for a low-key lake escape with solid fishing and mountain views, Lake Cle Elum is a laid-back gem east of the Cascades. It's perfect for a quiet day on the water—just don’t wait too long in the season if you want to launch a boat!

We Recommend This For:

Anglers, families, road trippers, and those who love serene lake settings without the crowds.

What we Love:

Multiple trout species, year-round fishing access, and its peaceful location just a short drive from the town of Cle Elum.

• Fish for kokanee, rainbow, and cutthroat trout in a scenic alpine lake.
• Plan your visit early in the season if you need boat access—launches typically close by mid-summer.
• Relax by the shore or cast a line from your kayak or paddleboard.
• Check for updated fishing regulations before you go—rules can change with the season.

Distance from Seattle:

Around 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.

How to Get to Lake Cle Elum:

Take I-90 East to Exit 80 for Roslyn/Salmon La Sac. Follow WA-903 North through Roslyn and Ronald—Lake Cle Elum is about 7 miles past the town of Cle Elum.

Family Day Trips from Seattle, WA:

Location:

Olympic Peninsula, WA

Highlights:

Looking for a wild weekend that feels worlds away from the city? Olympic National Forest has it all—rainforests, saltwater shores, and alpine peaks—all in one magical drive from Seattle.

We Recommend This For:

Nature lovers, road trippers, families, horseback riders, photographers, and anyone who wants variety and solitude in equal measure.

What we Love:

The diversity of landscapes—from lush rainforest to rugged mountain—plus horseback riding, historic cabin rentals, and scenic drives that never get old.

• Explore 628,000+ acres surrounding Olympic National Park, with trails and viewpoints to suit every skill level.
• Fish in pristine rivers, hike through moss-draped forests, or ride horseback on peaceful backcountry paths.
• Drive scenic byways like the Hood Canal Loop or Forest Route 30 for some of the best views in the state.
• Stay overnight in a campground or book one of three historic rental cabins for extra comfort in the wilderness.

Distance from Seattle:

Varies by access point, but plan for around 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on your route.

How to Get to Olympic National Forest:

Multiple routes are available. From Seattle, take the Bainbridge or Edmonds ferry, then drive west on US-101 to reach different entry points around the forest’s perimeter. Use the Forest Service website for maps and trip planning.

Location:

Bainbridge Island, WA

Highlights:

If you’re in the mood for quiet paths, meditative beauty, and lush green everything—Bloedel Reserve is your spot. Just a short ferry ride from Seattle, it feels like stepping into a living poem.

We Recommend This For:

Garden lovers, design enthusiasts, meditative walkers, day-trippers, and anyone who wants peace and natural elegance rolled into one unforgettable stroll.

What we Love:

The blend of Japanese garden influences, rare moss gardens, a serene bird marsh, and the surprising backstory of its founders.

• Wander through 150 acres of intentional design, from floral glens to shaded forest paths.
• Discover peaceful features like a moss garden, bird marsh, and classic Japanese-style garden.
• Join a free guided tour included with admission—perfect for first-time visitors wanting deeper insight.
• Shop for thoughtful gifts and souvenirs at the on-site store before heading back to the ferry.

Distance from Seattle:

About 35 minutes by ferry, plus a short drive or ride to the Reserve.

How to Get to Bloedel Reserve:

Take the ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island, then drive or rideshare approximately 15 minutes to 7571 NE Dolphin Dr, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110.