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“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” — Jacques Cousteau

Craving salt air, evergreen views, and charming seaside towns? These must-see Places to Visit in Puget Sound offer ferry rides, island escapes, and nature-rich adventures just beyond Seattle.

Highlights:

  • Take a scenic ferry to Bainbridge Island for art, wine, and waterfront walks.
  • Explore rugged beaches and forest trails in Deception Pass State Park.
  • Discover island charm and lavender farms on Whidbey Island.
  • Stroll the historic waterfront and boutiques in Gig Harbor.
  • Watch for whales off the shores of San Juan Island.

Unique Places to Visit in Puget Sound:

1. Take a short ferry ride to Bainbridge Island

Rating: ★★★★★

Take a short ferry ride to Bainbridge Island

© Bill Perry/stock.adobe.com

Location: Bainbridge Island, WA

Recommended For: Nature lovers, Seattle day-trippers, garden enthusiasts, beachgoers, and boutique shoppers.

What I Love: "A 35-minute ferry ride from Seattle and suddenly—you’re in a world of quiet trails, mountain views, and storybook charm. Bainbridge Island is a Puget Sound gem."

  • Wander the manicured trails of the Bloedel Reserve—67 acres of gardens, forest, and peaceful reflection spaces.
  • Relax at Fay Bainbridge Park, with beachfront camping and panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains and Puget Sound.
  • Discover welcoming inns, outdoor adventures, and indie boutiques that give Bainbridge its small-town charm with upscale flair.

Cost: Ferry ride from Seattle (~$10 round trip for walk-ons); most parks and beaches are free; garden and lodging costs vary.

Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for the best weather, ferry access, and lush garden walks.

Local tips: Board the ferry early to secure a good seat, especially on weekends. Bring walking shoes—many of the island’s best features are explored on foot.

Distance: 35 minutes by ferry from downtown Seattle.

How to Get to Bainbridge Island: Take the Washington State Ferry from Seattle’s downtown terminal. Once on the island, public transit, bikes, and rideshares help you explore with ease.

2. Plan a weekend getaway to Blake Island

Plan a weekend getaway to Blake Island

© David Webber/stock.adobe.com

Location: Blake Island, WA

Recommended For: Boaters, outdoor adventurers, hikers, cultural travelers, and nature photographers.

What I Love: "Accessible only by boat, Blake Island feels like a secret wilderness retreat with tribal stories, driftwood beaches, and epic Mt. Rainier views."

  • Hike or bike scenic forested trails across the island’s marine state park terrain.
  • Experience traditional Native American-inspired Tillicum events and storytelling when available.
  • Dig, dive, and fish along the island’s rich shoreline—perfect for clamming, SCUBA diving, and peaceful shoreline exploration.

Cost: Boat access or tour fee; park use fees may apply; special events may require tickets.

Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for the best weather, boat access, and trail conditions.

Local tips: Bring your own boat or book a tour from Seattle. Pack in everything you need—there are no stores on the island.

Distance: Approximately 8 miles southwest of Seattle via boat.

How to Get to Blake Island: Accessible only by private boat, kayak, or chartered tour from Seattle or surrounding marinas. Plan ahead for weather and park regulations.

Address: Blake Island, WA 98366

3. Admire the art at Chihuly Garden and Glass

Admire the art at Chihuly Garden and Glass

© Dana/stock.adobe.com

Location: Seattle, WA

Recommended For: Art lovers, museumgoers, design enthusiasts, and visitors exploring the Seattle Center area.

What I Love: "Immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Dale Chihuly’s world-renowned glass installations under the towering Space Needle."

  • Marvel at vibrant glass sculptures in the indoor galleries, garden, and stunning Glasshouse.
  • Attend creative events like Yoga Under Glass, glassblowing talks, and art workshops.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Space Needle, MoPOP, and Pacific Science Center.

Cost: General admission from $35 for adults; combo tickets with Space Needle available.

Best time to visit: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds, or evenings when the garden is beautifully illuminated.

Local tips: Buy tickets online in advance; visit at sunset for magical garden lighting.

Distance: Less than 1 mile from downtown Seattle, easily walkable or accessible via the Monorail.

How to Get to Chihuly Garden and Glass: Located at Seattle Center in Lower Queen Anne, it’s accessible by light rail, Monorail from Westlake Center, or by foot from downtown.

Address: 305 Harrison Street, Seattle, WA, Phone: 206-753-4940

4. Admire the view from Deception Pass

Admire the view from Deception Pass

© openrangestock/stock.adobe.com

Location: Oak Harbor, WA

Recommended For: Nature lovers, photographers, hikers, and families seeking dramatic coastal scenery and outdoor adventures.

What I Love: "Crossing the awe-inspiring Deception Pass Bridge at sunset and feeling the salty breeze from Puget Sound."

  • Hike through lush forests and along rugged coastal trails with panoramic viewpoints.
  • Swim in freshwater Cranberry Lake or relax on Puget Sound beaches.
  • Explore mysterious coves, spot wildlife, and enjoy one of Washington's most scenic state parks.

Cost: A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to the park (daily or annual fee).

Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for the best weather and trail access.

Local tips: Arrive early on weekends to beat crowds and find parking; bring binoculars for spotting seals and eagles.

Distance: About 90 miles north of Seattle; a 2-hour scenic drive via I-5 and WA-20.

How to Get to Deception Pass: Drive north from Seattle to Anacortes, then head south on WA-20 through Fidalgo Island to the Deception Pass Bridge. Parking is available near the bridge and beaches.

Address: 41229 State Route 20, Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Romantic Places to Visit in Puget Sound:

5. Visit Seattle’s largest public park, Discovery Park

Visit Seattle’s largest public park, Discovery Park

© Melastmohican/stock.adobe.com

Location: Magnolia neighborhood, Seattle, WA

Recommended For: Nature seekers, walkers, birders, families, and those looking for serenity near the city.

What I Love: "Escaping the city bustle and wandering forest trails to discover Puget Sound views and peaceful beaches."

  • Explore 11.8 miles of scenic trails through forest groves, dunes, and meadows.
  • Admire stunning views of the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges.
  • Relax on protected tidal beaches or enjoy picnicking in open spaces.

Cost: Free admission; no pass required.

Best time to visit: Year-round, though spring and summer offer the best weather and wildlife sightings.

Local tips: Start at the Environmental Learning Center for maps and suggested routes; bring binoculars for birdwatching.

Distance: Just 5 miles northwest of downtown Seattle; about a 20-minute drive.

How to Get to Discovery Park: Take 15th Ave W north from downtown, then exit onto W Emerson St to reach the Magnolia neighborhood. Free parking is available in designated lots within the park.

6. See the iconic landmarks of Elliott Bay

See the iconic landmarks of Elliott Bay

© Jo Ann Snover/stock.adobe.com

Location: Central Seattle waterfront, Washington State

Recommended For: Sightseers, history buffs, couples, and first-time Seattle visitors.

What I Love: "Watching the sun dip behind the Olympic Mountains while cruising across Elliott Bay."

Cost: Free to explore the waterfront; cruise and tour prices vary.

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for the best weather and most cruise options.

Local tips: Visit early morning for fewer crowds and clear photo ops, or at sunset for golden-hour views.

Distance: Located in downtown Seattle — walkable from major hotels and attractions.

How to Get to Elliott Bay: Easily accessible via public transit or by walking from downtown; parking garages are available near the waterfront piers.

7. Learn about history at Fort Worden Historical State Park

Learn about history at Fort Worden Historical State Park

© Zack Frank/stock.adobe.com

Location: Port Townsend, Washington – on the northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula

Recommended For: History buffs, families, campers, and fans of coastal fortifications.

What I Love: "Exploring eerie gun batteries and relaxing on scenic parade lawns by the sea."

  • Tour restored Victorian-era Officers' homes and explore historic gun emplacements.
  • Learn about the fort’s military past where 1,000 troops once protected Puget Sound.
  • Camp overnight, hike forested trails, or stay in one of the park’s vacation rentals.

Cost: Day-use entry with Discover Pass; lodging and campground fees vary.

Best time to visit: Spring through early fall for events and mild weather.

Local tips: Bring a flashlight for exploring the darker gun batteries. Check the schedule for festivals and educational events.

Distance: About 2 hours from Seattle via ferry and drive.

How to Get to Fort Worden: From Seattle, take the Bainbridge Island or Edmonds ferry and drive to Port Townsend. The park is at the northeast tip of town.

Address: 200 Battery Way, Port Townsend, WA, Phone: 360-344-4400

Plan ahead for these Port Townsend events:
- Port Townsend Acoustic Blues Festival
- Wooden Boat Festival

Family-friendly Places to Visit in Puget Sound:

8. Take a tour of the Boeing Future of Flight

Take a tour of the Boeing Future of Flight

© Boeing Future of Flight

Location: Mukilteo, Washington – 25 miles north of Seattle

Recommended For: Aviation fans, families with teens, and STEM-minded travelers.

What I Love: "Stepping inside the world’s largest building to witness Dreamliners being assembled in real time."

  • Tour the iconic Boeing assembly plant and see 747s, 767s, 777s, and 787 Dreamliners take shape.
  • Experience a guided 90-minute behind-the-scenes tour with expert narration and viewing balconies.
  • Explore interactive exhibits and innovations at the Future of Flight Aviation Center.

Cost: Varies by ticket and age. Check website for up-to-date pricing and availability.

Best time to visit: Weekdays during active production hours for a livelier tour experience.

Local tips: Children must be at least 4 feet tall to join the tour. Arrive early for security screening and bring valid ID.

Distance: About 30 minutes north of Seattle by car.

How to Get to Boeing Future of Flight: Drive north on I-5, take WA-525 toward Mukilteo, and follow signs to Paine Field and the Boeing facility.

Address: 8415 Paine Field Boulevard, Mukilteo, WA, Phone: 800-464-1476

9. Visit the Museum of Pop Culture

Visit the Museum of Pop Culture

© Zack Frank/stock.adobe.com

Location: Seattle, Washington – in the Lower Queen Anne neighborhood near Seattle Center

Recommended For: Pop culture fans, music lovers, comic book geeks, and curious minds of all ages.

What I Love: "The immersive exhibits that celebrate everything from Nirvana to Marvel superheroes under one wild, colorful roof."

  • Explore dynamic exhibitions like Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes and Nirvana: Taking Punk to the Masses.
  • Discover the roots of grunge with Pearl Jam: Home and Away and dive into music history at Hendrix: Wild Blue Angel.
  • Engage with interactive spaces like Sound Lab and The Infinite World of Science Fiction.
  • Attend special events like Campout Cinema screenings and seasonal pop culture celebrations.

Cost: Admission prices vary by age and exhibition access. Check MoPOP’s website for ticket details.

Best time to visit: Weekday mornings to beat the crowds; check the calendar for special events.

Local tips: The building itself is a visual landmark designed by Frank Gehry—don’t forget to snap a photo of the architecture.

Distance: Located in the heart of Seattle, walking distance from the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass.

How to Get to MoPOP: Easily accessible via the Seattle Center Monorail or by foot from downtown Seattle.

Address: 325 5th Avenue North, Seattle, WA, Phone: 206-770-2700

10. Stroll through the Olympic Sculpture Park

Stroll through the Olympic Sculpture Park

© khomlyak/stock.adobe.com

Location: Seattle, Washington – along the downtown waterfront, just north of Belltown

Recommended For: Art lovers, photographers, walkers, and anyone seeking scenic beauty and cultural enrichment.

What I Love: "A stunning blend of world-class sculpture, green space, and panoramic views—all free to enjoy."

  • Stroll through nine acres of outdoor art installations in a serene urban setting.
  • Admire iconic works like The Eagle, Father and Son, and Eye Benches I, II, and III.
  • Marvel at spectacular views of Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and Seattle sunsets.
  • Host a scenic event or special gathering at one of Seattle’s most beautiful public venues.

Cost: Free admission, open year-round.

Best time to visit: Sunset hours for dramatic lighting on the sculptures and the bay.

Local tips: Visit early in the morning or on weekdays for a peaceful stroll with fewer visitors.

Distance: Located just a short walk from Pike Place Market and downtown Seattle hotels.

How to Get to the Park: Easily accessible by foot, bike, or public transit from downtown Seattle.

Address: 2901 Western Avenue, Seattle, WA, Phone: 206-654-3100

Plan Your Trip