Best Places to Visit in Washington State
Searching for the best places to visit in Washington State? Well, you are in the right place! Whether you have time for just a day trip, a weekend or a week-long vacation, here are the most amazing places we found near Seattle and all across the Evergreen State.
After exploring Washington State time and again and from my recent four week road trip, here are the places in Washington I keep coming back to, and I hope you enjoy'll enjoy them too.
1. Snohomish - 40 minutes from Seattle
May turned out to be a picture-perfect time to visit this town because I especially enjoyed sunshine and fields of tulips. After our short drive from Seattle, we checked into a cozy affordable vacation rental for a relaxing week.
To start the day, we had great pancakes for breakfast at Maltby Cafe, then walked along First Street, popping into vintage boutiques.
Afterwards, we enjoyed the outdoors at the Centennial Trail and Lord Hill Regional Park, visited the Snohomish Aquatic Center with my son, and had fun at The Reptile Zoo.
The historic downtown felt alive with strollers and shoppers browsing antiques, especially on weekends. I thought that Snohomish was one of the best places to visit in WA when we were based in Seattle because I loved its nature and small time vibes.
- Location: Western Washington in the Snohomish River Valley, southeast of Everett in the Puget Sound region
- Map & Directions
What I Loved Best:
Visiting the Historic Downtown Spring Market where flower baskets lined every storefront in the spring which was my personal highlight.
2. Things to Do in Spokane
I adored this town’s blend of historic brick buildings, leafy parks, and creative energy when Chris and I visited for a fun long weekend this month!
After landing at Spokane International Airport (GEG), I based myself at the 4-star Davenport Grand (around $137/night) for four exciting days, where we spent my mornings walking across the Monroe Street Bridge, pausing to watch the waterfalls thunder below. In the afternoons, I browsed indie shops and galleries in the West End District in "The Lilac City", then lingered over late lunch on the patio at Wild Sage Bistro, where I ordered salmon.
I planned my trip for the Lilac Festival & Armed Forces Torchlight Parade so that we could enjoy the blooms and marching bands. We also caught Lilac Bloomsday Run, the annual community run (a tradition since the 1970s!) that brings everyone outdoors to celebrate the season.
- Location: Eastern Washington along the Spokane River, near the Idaho border on the Columbia Plateau
- Map & Directions
What I Loved Best:
I loved our lunch at Clinkerdagger overlooking the Spokane River, with skyline views & deck.
3. Port Angeles - 2 hours 45 minutes from Seattle plus a short ferry ride
If your travel dates are flexible, I recommend visiting this coastal spot in July because the weather is perfect for ferry-hopping, beachcombing, and ending days with Pacific Northwest cuisine. I loved the lively summer energy, with the Fourth of July celebration lighting up the Port Angeles waterfront, open-air concerts at the pier, and cool arts festivals downtown.
From our apartment in Seattle, we northwest to spend a blissful week in Port Angeles - you may know it as a gateway to Olympic National Park. We stayed at the historic Red Lion Hotel on the waterfront ($175/night) overlooking the ferry terminal. During our stay we swam and kayaked at nearby Lake Crescent, visited the Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles, and indulged in local flavors at wineries and waterfront cafés. In addition, my son loved the Feiro Marine Life Center where he had a chance to learn about local sea life.
One of my favorite stops was the Peninsula Taproom, where I sampled craft brews alongside local oysters, and later, a sunset dinner at Bella Italia. Another great spot for dinner was Kokopelli Grill.
- Location: Northern Olympic Peninsula in northwestern Washington, along the Strait of Juan de Fuca near Olympic National Park
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
My favorite highlight was strolling along the Port Angeles Waterfront Trail, watching ferries drift across to Victoria, and browsing the nostalgic downtown filled with vintage shops.
4. Things to Do in Seattle
No list of the best places to visit in Washington State would be complete without its largest city where I love seeing skyscrapers that rise over Elliott Bay, ferries going back and forth across the water, and snowcapped Mount Rainier in the distance.
Flying into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), I stayed at Lotte Hotel Seattle for three fun days, a hotel that won the AAA Four Diamond award so you can trust that it's a quality hotel!
We began at Nossa Familia Coffee's Seattle outpost, ordering a smooth Americano and a warm cheddar-chive biscuit. The coffee was rich and earthy, the biscuit savory and crumbly, and I lingered as long as I could.
Later, I wandered into the Center on Contemporary Art (CoCA) where I loved seeing the bold installations that filled the quiet rooms.
In addition, we sampled local foods at Pike Place Market, visited the Seattle Art Museum and the Museum of Pop Culture for culture and creativity, and walked along the Seattle Waterfront. Taking a ride to the top of the Space Needle was incredible, as was going on a ferry ride across Puget Sound.
Dinner at Toulouse Petit on our first night brought warmth and happy memories with my husband, along with a tasty bowl of wild mushroom gnocchi, soft and earthy, with a hint of sage and butter.
Next day we had dinner at Tulio, tucked beneath the vintage Hotel Vintage, where the lights were low and I ordered the wild boar ragù.
- Location: Western Washington on the Puget Sound
- Seattle Elevation: about 131 feet (40 m) above sea level
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
My favorite highlight during this trip was watching a colorful sunset at Kerry Park, one of the city’s most iconic viewpoints!
5. Sequim, WA - 2 hours northwest from Seattle
I find this place to be a peaceful escape that instantly makes me feel at home. Nestled between the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, it gives me the perfect mix of mountain views and coastal beauty.
I drove about 2 hours northwest from Seattle to Sequim, crossing Puget Sound on the Hood Canal Bridge before rolling into the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains.
We checked into an affordable vacation rental for five stress-free days and did what I love best: walking through the famous lavender fields in the summer. The rows of purple stretching into the horizon feel like a hidden treasure, and the scent in the air makes me slow down and simply breathe.
I often spend time at the Dungeness Spit, where I can walk along one of the longest natural sand spits in the world.
I also enjoy exploring downtown Sequim, where local shops and cafés have such a welcoming atmosphere. Each visit gives me the chance to find a gem tucked away, whether it’s handmade art or a cozy coffee spot.
- Location: Northern Olympic Peninsula in western Washington, along the Strait of Juan de Fuca east of Port Angeles
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
I never leave without savoring fresh Dungeness crab, my personal highlight.
6. Kirkland - just 20 minutes from Seattle
I love visiting this town that makes such a cool and easy day trip from Seattle. Besides, I think it's one of the best places to visit in WA. Why? First off, it sits along the eastern shore of Lake Washington so it's incredibly scenic. Secondly, I adore the walkable streets, parks right to the water’s edge, and a strong local arts scene. I love discovering a new café with views across the water to Seattle’s skyline.
In addition, for foodies, there are so many excellent choices. Start your morning at Kirkland Bakery, and have lunch at Ba Sa Restaurant for Vietnamese cuisine or grab a delicious (and affordable!) sandwich at Nick's Grill
- Location: Western Washington on the eastern shore of Lake Washington, northeast of Seattle in the Puget Sound region
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
Dinner at Rimini Restaurant serving fancier Italian food - my husband and I celebrated our anniversary here!
7. Ellensburg, WA - 2 hours from Seattle
This is a true Central Washington gem, a college town with historic roots and open skies. Set in the Kittitas Valley, I completely fell for its mix of frontier history, farmland views, and youthful energy from Central Washington University.
After a scenic one hour 45 minute drive from our apartment in Seattle, we stayed at the Hotel Windrow ($185) for two eventful days, where I enjoyed our boutique-style guest room with modern amenities and rustic touches.
We loved having so much to see and do on on vacation! I loved exploring downtown, visiting the Clymer Museum of Art, enjoying the Ellensburg Farmers Market (during the warmer season), visiting the Kittitas County Historical Museum, touring the Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center, and enjoying the outdoors at places like Olmstead Place State Park or Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park.
- Location: Central Washington in the Kittitas Valley, along the Yakima River north of Yakima
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
Dinner at The Pearl Bar & Grill with my son and husband in a relaxed setting with burgers and fries was my personal highlight.
8. Vancouver, WA - 15 minutes from Portland
Ending November in this cozy Washington town turned out to be such a rewarding choice. Why? The crisp Columbia River air felt refreshing, the riverfront was calm, local shops were starting to roll out their holiday décor, and off-season hotel rates made it easy to snag a comfortable and romantic last-minute weekend stay.
We drove just a short distance from Portland for a relaxed four-day break at an affordable Airbnb. I spent my mornings strolling in parks and along river pathways which were blissfully uncrowded, visiting Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.
In addition, we had access to some of the best food in Downtown Vancouver. There is a lot of choose from (and I mean A LOT!). I really enjoyed Botanist in the Fairmont for a romantic dinner with a view, Nightingale if you want to try some truly Canadian food, and Chambar for Belgian cuisine.
- Location: Southwestern Washington along the Columbia River, north of Portland, Oregon
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
To work off the calories, I enjoyed strolling in Esther Short Park, where we admired the oldest public square in Washington!
A downside? I should probably mention that November weather here can swing from sunbreaks to steady drizzle, so I was glad I packed layers and waterproof shoes!
9. Friday Harbor - 3 hours from Seattle (including ferry ride)
I was completely spellbound by this tranquil and romantic Pacific Northwest island town which felt like stepping into a postcard with boats lining the marina and orcas swimming offshore (you can catch them mid-May to mid-September). In fact, I thought Maya’s Legacy Whale Watching was the most magical, soul-calming experience...
From Seattle, we drove about 1 hour 45 minutes north (90 miles via I-5) to Anacortes, then boarded the Washington State Ferry (1 hour, $15 walk-on or around $25 per car + driver) across the Salish Sea to Friday Harbor, the main town on San Juan Island (population just around 2,400 people).
While there, I wandered around the compact, walkable downtown filled with galleries, shops, and cafés, then visited the San Juan Historical Museum ($10 admission) to learn about the island’s pioneer past. We stayed at the historic Friday Harbor House ($295) for two days, where I especially loved the sunset views of the ferries gliding in.
- Location: On San Juan Island in northwestern Washington, in the Salish Sea north of Seattle
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
Seeing whales from Lime Kiln Point State Park (known as one of the best land-based whale-watching spots in the world) was a true highlight for me!
10. The REACH Museum in Richland, WA
I thought this was a fascinating stop and one of the best things to do in Washington. Why? First off, it sits along the Columbia River so it's incredibly scenic. Secondly, it’s one of those places where nature, science, history, and local culture all intersect in meaningful ways.
We visited on a fun weekend trip from Seattle (about 3.5 hours by car one way), parked in its LEED-certified facility, and wandered through both indoor exhibits and outdoor gardens. For me, exploring The REACH felt like stepping through time, from geological upheavals to wartime innovations, then into modern environmental challenges. we spent around 3 hours at this cool museum, walking through the exhibits and also enjoying the outdoors by looking at river vistas and enjoying the walking paths on a beautiful sunny day.
- Location: Southeastern Washington in the Tri-Cities region, along the Columbia River in Richland
- Map & Directions
Instead of driving back right away, we checked into 3-star Holiday Inn Richland on the River overnight (around $111). In the morning, we started with breakfast at Yellow Cafe where I had amazing strawberry pancakes. Afterwards, we explored Howard Amon Park and Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve before driving home to Seattle.
11. Long Weekend in Tacoma
This is one of my favorite places to visit in Washington State on a day trip or weekend getaway for foodies (besides Seattle of course)! I loved starting my day at Curran Coffee near the waterfront. May turned out to be an incredible time to explore this Pacific Northwest gem when mild sunshine, rhododendrons in full bloom, and clear mountain views made Tacoma’s waterfront shimmer without the summer crowds.
I drove 30 minutes south from Seattle and spent three days over the weekend at the elegant McMenamins Elks Temple Hotel, exploring the city’s creative pulse — from the Museum of Glass and Tacoma Art Museum to the fascinating Washington State History Museum (my son loved the model trains!).
- Location: Western Washington along the shores of Puget Sound, south of Seattle near Mount Rainier
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
In the afternoon, I loved wandering along Ruston Way, and watching kayakers (and seals!) in Commencement Bay.
Dinner at Duke’s Seafood right over the water was my personal highlight and I thought their Chowder Samplers were fantastic!
12. Mukilteo - 35 minutes from Seattle
I think that this is one of the best places to visit in Washington if you live in Seattle because it's just a 35 minute drive, and offers lots to do (and eat!).
Locals told me that Mukilteo Lighthouse (in the photo) has guided ships since the 1900s. I loved our visit to the historic Mukilteo Lighthouse Park for beach walks, watching the Whidbey Island ferry come and go, enjoying fresh seafood at Ivar’s Mukilteo Landing right on the water, exploring the nearby Japanese Gulch Trail to work off the calories.
- Location: Western Washington on the Puget Sound, northwest of Everett near the Whidbey Island ferry terminal
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
My favorite thing to do is relaxing with coffee from Red Cup Cafe along the waterfront, soaking up the harbor atmosphere.
13. Walla Walla
I found this place absolutely enchanting this month with its historic downtown, lined with beautifully preserved 19th-century brick buildings.
A scenic 4-hour drive from Seattle brought me to the heart of town where I spent my afternoon wandering among the boutique shops on Main Street, sampling award-winning local vintages at Seven Hills Winery, and pausing often to admire the stunning mountain views that peek between historic storefronts.
Dinner at Saffron Mediterranean Kitchen was fresh, inventive, and delightfully unpretentious. I stayed two nights at the elegant 3-star Marcus Whitman Hotel ($195), a 1928 landmark whose grand lobby and old-world charm made me feel like I’d stepped into a classic travel novel (right downtown close to everything!).
- Location: Southeastern Washington in the Walla Walla Valley, near the Oregon border
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
My personal highlight was our walk through the Whitman College campus, known for its art and landscaping which my son really enjoyed.
A downside? Prices for boutique hotels and fine dining are a touch higher in Walla Walla than average for small towns in Washington, but I thought the atmosphere, scenery, and culinary scene make it well worth it.
14. Things to Do in Bellingham, WA
I was completely spellbound by this cozy and quietly romantic coastal city just one hour and 30 minute from Seattle. I was charmed by the Victorian brick storefronts, waterfront bakeries and mountain silhouettes in the distance.
I timed my visit for the Mount Baker Ski Area’s peak powder season, when fresh snowfall blanketed the slopes. In addition, the annual Bellingham SeaFeast Winter Edition (Free admissioN) brought coastal food and craft brews to town.
Between ski sessions, I wandered through Fairhaven’s independent bookstores, and warmed up with a latte at Camber Coffee Flagship cafe Downtown.
- Location: Northwestern Washington between Bellingham Bay and the Cascade foothills, near the Canadian border
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
Staying at the 4-star Chrysalis Inn & Spa, overlooking Bellingham Bay was my personal highlight. I loved soaking in the outdoor hot tub while watching the sunset over the San Juan Islands.
For me, Bellingham is one of the best places to visit in Washington State! It's full of unique attractions, perfect for a reset from the daily grind, and I hope you will enjoy it too.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
