Best Things to Do in Washington State
After years of exploring Washington State, I’ve come to appreciate just how much this diverse corner of the Pacific Northwest has to offer. From rugged mountain ranges and emerald forests to quirky small towns and vibrant cities, this state is packed with unforgettable adventures. These are the places and experiences I’ve personally enjoyed the most, and the ones I’d recommend to anyone planning a trip.
Best Things to Do in Washington State:
1. The Museum of Flight in Seattle
We drove from Portland to Seattle, a little over three hours on the interstate. I wanted to immerse myself in aviation history, stand inside a real aircraft, and find a meal that connected me back to the Northwest. It was about wonder, mechanics, and flavor. We stayed at Silver Cloud Hotel for a night.
I stepped into the Great Gallery, where aircraft soared above me, suspended mid-flight, and thought, “This must be what it feels like to shrink down and walk inside a history book.”
I enjoyed climbing aboard the retired Air Force One and Concorde. Sitting in the narrow rows, I imagined the hum of engines and the thrill of speed. History felt close enough to touch.
The Space Gallery ($27 adult admission, $19 for youth) was unforgettable. Standing next to a full-size space shuttle trainer, I felt the awe of exploration. I traced the panels with my eyes and felt small in the best way possible.
I had lunch at The Museum Café, a casual spot on-site. I chose a smoked salmon chowder with a crusty roll. The broth was creamy, rich with dill and onion, the salmon carrying just enough smokiness to taste like the Pacific Northwest in a bowl. I lingered with coffee as planes glided in and out of Boeing Field next door.
The museum’s size was both a gift and a challenge. I could have spent an entire day, but with kids in tow, we had to pace ourselves. By mid-afternoon, energy ran low even though there was still more to see.
2. Flavors and flowers at Pike Place Market
We drove into downtown Seattle from our hotel, a quick fifteen-minute ride through the bustle of morning traffic. Parking was tight, but once we stepped out, the hum of the city softened under the sound of street musicians and the calls of vendors. we checked into Inn at the Market for a night.
My plan was simple: wander the stalls, taste something fresh, and soak up the atmosphere of one of the country’s oldest public markets. I wanted to find both the famous and the hidden corners.
Seattle’s Pike Place Market felt alive in every direction, fishmongers tossing salmon, the scent of flowers in buckets, neon signs glowing over bakeries and coffee shops. It was crowded, but the energy was warm and full of rhythm.
I enjoyed weaving through stalls of produce, pastries, and crafts. Every corner seemed to carry a story, whether it was the hum of a violin, the smell of fresh bread, or the burst of color from tulips and dahlias.
Watching the fishmongers toss salmon at Pike Place Fish Market (free to watch) was iconic. The crowd gasped and laughed as the workers worked in rhythm, turning a sale into a performance. My son’s face lit up every time a fish soared through the air.
I grabbed lunch at Pike Place Chowder, tucked into Post Alley. I had the classic New England clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. The broth was creamy, briny, and rich with herbs, steam rising against the cool air. Every bite felt like comfort by the sea.
3. The Wing Luke Museum
I thought The Wing Luke Museum was an absolute treasure — tucked in Seattle’s historic Chinatown-International District, it’s not just a museum, but a living, breathing hub of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander stories. Walking through its exhibits felt like stepping into layered histories of immigration, resilience, and cultural pride — all woven together in beautifully curated spaces.
For me, this was a highlight of my Seattle trip. I hopped off the light rail at the International District station and strolled a few blocks through lantern-dotted streets and steaming dim sum restaurants to reach the museum. From the moment I walked in, the energy was welcoming and rooted in community.
I spent a couple of hours exploring the immersive galleries — from powerful stories of early Chinese immigrants to contemporary art installations. The guided historic building tour was especially moving; walking through preserved hotel rooms and family spaces where Asian immigrants once lived gave me a visceral sense of their daily lives. It felt like standing inside history rather than just reading about it.
4. The REACH Museum in Richland
I thought The REACH Museum was a fascinating stop — it sits along the Columbia River in Richland, and it’s one of those places where nature, science, history, and local culture all intersect in meaningful ways. Exploring it felt like stepping through time — from geological upheavals to wartime innovations, then into modern environmental challenges — all while being reminded how place and people are deeply intertwined.
I arrived by car via richland from the Tri-Cities area, parked in its LEED-certified facility, and wandered through both indoor exhibits and outdoor gardens. The building is modern and thoughtfully designed — lots of light, wide hallways, displays that engage you visually and interactively. I spent maybe 1½-2 hours, blending exhibits with some time outdoors, looking at river vistas and walking paths.
5. LeMay - America's Car Museum, Tacoma
We drove about 45 minutes south from Seattle to Tacoma. I thought LeMay – America’s Car Museum was an incredible place — part museum, part shrine to design, engineering, history, and Americana. Driving up, the building looked almost like a sleek showroom meets cathedral, and once inside, each car felt alive with stories. It’s one of those places where you linger — admiring curves, chrome, vintage detailing — and leave feeling like you’ve just taken a road-trip through time.
I had a cup of bold coffee and a maple scone from the museum café, taken to the balcony overlooking Tacoma and Mount Rainier in the distance.
6. Maya’s Legacy Whale Watching
I traveled up from the mainland (Seattle, ferry or drive/ferry via Anacortes) to Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. I thought Maya’s Legacy Whale Watching was a magical, soul-calming experience — out on the Salish Sea, surrounded by the archipelago’s islands, forested hills, and marine life everywhere. Strangely peaceful, wildly alive. Being out on the water with the orcas, seals, sea birds, and the rhythm of tides felt like nature’s theater.
7. Hands On Children’s Museum, Olympia
We drove about two hours from Seattle to Olympia to visit Hands On Children’s Museum. Stepping inside was like watching joy take shape, bubbles, boats, art supplies, and excited chatter at every turn. It wasn’t just for kids.
The outdoor Discovery Forest and Puget Sound-themed water play was a highlight, every child was an explorer, every moment hands-on and free. My son enjoyed a peanut butter banana smoothie from the café.
8. Stoup Brewing: Seattle’s Community Cup
I thought Stoup Brewing was relaxed but lively, and one of those perfect spots to hang out whether you’re a beer nerd or just someone who wants good vibes and flavorful brews. Nestled in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood (and with other taprooms around town), it manages to feel friendly, approachable, and just… well, Seattle: kind of rugged, kind of warm, kind of creative.
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.
