Weekend Getaways from Seattle
Planning a getaway from Seattle, Washington? What fun! For me, living in Seattle was made even better with great weekend getaways available nearby. Here are my favorite weekend spots just a short drive (or ferry ride) from Seattle to spend 48 hours relaxing. I hope you enjoy them too.
Friday Harbor House - 3 hours from Seattle
Want to spend a weekend getaway on an island near Seattle? For me, Friday Harbor, WA is a cool hidden gem overlooking the ocean that exceeded all my expectations. The scenic ferry from Anacortes added to our weekend fun.
The drive from Seattle to Anacortes took just under two hours. In Anacortes, you'll board the ferry which took us to Friday Harbor.
Our room at Friday Harbor House (Google Maps Pin) for two days had large windows looking out over the water which was my absolute favorite part! I also loved the s bathroom with a soaking bath tub and artisan bath products that smelled amazing! It was cool to find beans from a local roaster in our room too.
Friday Harbor House's location in the heart of Friday Harbor put us just steps away from independent boutiques, galleries, and coffee shops. You caneasily board one of the whale-watching tours departing from the marina.
We enjoyed both San Juan Island Roasters and Riptide Cafe with awesome harbor views - such a perfect spot to spend 30 minutes getting my caffeine fix.
What I loved best:
Pacific Northwest cuisine at the onsite restaurant was amazing. I have to warn you that during holidays and busy weekends you need to make reservations well in advance.
Cedarbrook Lodge - just 20 minutes from Seattle
In the mood for a nature escape with a great spa? For me, Cedarbrook Lodge (Google Maps Pin) is one of the most underrated nature stays in the Seattle area.
I love that it's the kind of place where I can enjoy a 60-minute massage at The Spa at Cedarbrook in the morning, hike up forested paths in the afternoon, and end my day by the fireplace in the evening. You'll be in 18 acres so it's very quiet.
The impressive range of onsite amenities was my personal highlight. There is a well-equipped fitness studio, complimentary bike rentals, and fireside lounges. In addition, dining at award-winning Copperleaf Restaurant & Bar was super tasty with totally local ingredients.
A downside? We just missed one of the seasonal culinary events hosted here - something I put on my bucket list for our next trip.
Willows Lodge - 30 minutes from Seattle
In the heart of Woodinville wine country, this is one of my favorite weekend getaways in Washington state that's such as conveniently short drive from Seattle! I was completely wowed by the setting of Willows Lodge.
I thought that my room for two days was dream come true and just what we needed after another hectic workweek. I soaked in the oversized soaking tub built for two, watched the crackling fireplace at the foot of our bed, and even used the plush seating area to read for an hour.
I also treated myself to a 60-minute lavender-infused massage at the full-service spa on our first day! After that, we checked out the gardens, warmed up in the outdoor hydrotherapy pool, and by then were ravenous for farm-to-table dishes at the award-winning Barking Frog restaurant (you really need to book ahead of time on weekends!).
What I loved best:
My absolute favorite highlight was the private balcony overlooking beautiful lodge gardens and riverside trails.
TreeHouse Point - 35 minutes from Seattle
For a truly unique weekend, this place stands out as one of the most enchanting places near Seattle. We stumbled upon this hideaway, tucked away in a lush forest with a river just 30 minutes from downtown Seattle about 10 years ago and have been back a few times since because we simply adore it here!
Our treehouse for two days was located high above the forest floor and connected via winding pathways and rope bridges. It felt both whimsical and serene, like stepping into a woodland fairytale. (Unfortunately if you are afraid of heights, I don't think you would be comfortable here.)
Breakfast was a highlight, with hearty homemade dishes like farm-fresh eggs, flaky pastries, and seasonal fruit served in a cozy communal lodge. In the evenings, I enjoyed sipping local Washington wines by the firepit, and listening to the sounds of the forest.
I loved that there were so many activities to choose from: nature walks with a local guide, yoga sessions on the lawn, and plenty of quiet corners to read, journal, and unwind.
What I loved best:
I loved waking up to the sight of sunlight streaming through the trees while still snug under warm quilts in my private treehouse. It was equal parts magical and grounding, a truly unforgettable weekend escape.
Iron Springs Resort - 2 hours 30 minutes from Seattle
I was completely won over by this historic Pacific Northwest lodge! We loved soaring vaulted ceiling, a grand stone fireplace, local art, and handmade quilts.
You can stay in an ocean-view cabin with a private deck, with ocean just steps away.
Iron Springs Resort even provided thoughtful extras like board games, rain jackets, and beachcombing kits.
Our son loved exploring the tide pools, and checking out driftwood on the beaches. Just a short drive away, we found hiking trails, fishing spots, and small coastal towns.
The onsite Iron Springs General Store sells fresh pastries, espresso, regional wines, and local craft goods. The resort also hosts community bonfires on the beach. Plus, you can join one of their guided tide pool walks, and attend seasonal seafood feasts.
What I loved best:
For me, Iron Springs Resort is one of the best weekend getaways from Seattle. Evenings often ended with people gathering around a fire pit to share stories under the stars. Pets were welcome too.
Saratoga Inn - 1 hour from Seattle
The ferry ride to Whidbey Island always slows my thoughts, but it was this inn that truly made us stop. With its wraparound porch, bay views, and soft quilts, it was one of the most stunning inns I've ever stayed at.
This stylish yet unpretentious boutique stay perfectly blended comfort with a creative local flair. Set in a lovingly restored historic building right in the heart of Saratoga’s charming waterfront district, the inn had a laid-back elegance that instantly felt welcoming.
The neighborhood itself brimmed with character with cozy cafés, artisan shops, and easy strolls along the harbor, with plenty of options for casual fine dining and live music in the evenings.
Saratoga Inn interiors struck a balance between classic warmth and quirky personality. Polished wood, oversized windows, and nautical-inspired accents were paired with colorful vintage-style furniture, creating an atmosphere that felt both timeless and fun.
A big part of the charm was the communal vibe. I found myself effortlessly striking up conversations with fellow travelers in the lounge over a glass of wine or a board game.
My guest room for two days was individually designed, featuring handpicked artwork from local creatives and thoughtful touches like handwoven throws and antique-style lamps. Hardwood floors and bay-facing windows added a sense of cozy sophistication, while amenities such as free WiFi, mini-fridges, and flat-screen TVs kept things modern. Some rooms offered soaking tubs with views, perfect after a day exploring.
Breakfast was a highlight with a hearty spread of locally sourced fare served in a bright, airy dining room. Fresh pastries, seasonal fruits, and hot dishes prepared with care made each morning a pleasure.
Other standouts included the wraparound porch with its rocking chairs overlooking the water, the cozy library stocked with regional history and travel books, and the small but charming garden patio where live acoustic sessions were sometimes hosted.
What I loved best:
I loved that in the evenings, the inn partnered with nearby restaurants and wineries, offering curated tasting experiences and special prix fixe menus that gave a true flavor of the region.
Salish Lodge & Spa
I found it impossible not to fall for this incredible hotel, perched dramatically above the roaring Snoqualmie Falls!
Our Spa Level King Room for two care-free days was a true sanctuary and I loved its private fireplace, oversized soaking tub, and eco-luxury bath products. The floor-to-ceiling windows gave me breathtaking views of the surrounding evergreens and the amazing waterfalls. I kept thinking that it felt like stepping into a Pacific Northwest dream, like a Netflix romance come to life. For me, the turndown honey cookies (a nod to the lodge’s own honeybees) were an especially sweet touch!
On our first morning, I pampered myself with a 60-minute sugar scrub treatment at their world-class spa, and especially appreciated that they use locally sourced oils.
There were hiking trails right near Salish Lodge so you can be active on vacation too. In addition, I found it impressive that Salish Lodge & Spa won the #1 Resort Hotel in the West by Travel + Leisure award in 2024!
What I loved best:
The Dining Room was my favorite place where we savored regional Pacific Northwest cuisine, including fresh salmon and other farm-to-table dishes.
A downside? Having to book spa treatments weeks in advance.
Skamania Lodge, Stevenson - 3 hours 20 minutes from Seattle
I discovered this stunning retreat tucked away in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge years ago. This is a grand, timber-framed mountain lodge surrounded by old-growth forests, and incredible river views that we loved.
The staff told me that each of the guest rooms was designed to reflect the natural beauty of the Gorge. I loved the mix of textures: warm wood, soft plaids, earthy tones, and large windows framing postcard-worthy landscapes.
My own room for two days was lovely with an earthy, lodge-chic aesthetic with cozy leather chairs, plush bedding, and eco-friendly touches like refillable toiletries.
I was so happy with the location right on the doorstep of hiking trails, waterfalls, and the Columbia River. It felt both remote and connected, with Stevenson’s small-town charms and local breweries just minutes away.
During my stay, I explored the surrounding trails, played a round of golf on their 18-hole course, and treated myself to a 60-minute massage plus relaxation at the spa.
In addition, the lodge’s Adventure Park is thrilling with panoramic views from the treetops!
What I loved best:
For me, Skamania Lodge is one of the best weekend getaways from Seattle. My personal highlight was simple evenings where we relaxed while watching the sunset blaze across the Gorge.
The Wild Iris Inn
I was genuinely charmed by the inn, a boutique retreat that perfectly blends small-town coziness with refined style.
Nestled right in the heart of La Conner, it stood out to me for its inviting atmosphere and thoughtful balance of modern comfort with rustic Northwest charm.
I was in awe of the charming Craftsman-style architecture at the 4-star Wild Iris Inn, paired with interiors that felt both polished and intimate. I admired the décor with its elegant wood accents, fireplaces, the coolest local artwork, and cozy reading places. To me it felt upscale yet approachable.
My guest room for two days was equally delightful with the comfy pillow-top bed wrapped in fine linens, a whirlpool tub, a fireplace, a private balcony overlooking the gardens, and even freshly baked cookies waiting for me at check-in!
The gourmet breakfast (scones, seasonal fruit, and hearty egg dishes) was the perfect start to each day. The communal areas, including the veranda and gardens, made me feel like I had discovered a secret hideaway. And I have to mention the warm, attentive staff, who made The Wild Iris Inn really welcoming for us.
What I loved best:
I loved being right in downtown of La Conner meant I could walk to the waterfront, browse the art galleries, explore boutique shops, and dine at some of the area’s best restaurants. It was also a perfect base for visiting the tulip fields, nearby wineries, and the Skagit Valley’s natural beauty.
Alderbrook Resort and Spa
This is my favorite hotel for fjord views in all of the United States! Alderbrook Resort & Spa is a luxurious spa retreat surrounded by the Olympic Mountains. It's just two hours’ drive from Seattle so getting here was easy.
Our cottage for two care-free days came with breathtaking views over the lake.
I signed up for the signature massage at the spa. After, we had great seafood for dinner at Alderbrook Restaurant.
