Washington State. The Evergreen State. Washington is truly evergreen and the opportunities for adventure and discovery are eternal. With diverse terrain and ecosystems, it is a wonderland.
Washington offers remote beaches and populated beaches, snow-capped mountains and rainforests, expansive national parks and state parks, endless hiking trails and backcountry adventures. There are the comforts, conveniences, and activities of bustling cities and the remote sweetness of lavender farms and fishing communities.
And then there’s that Mount Rainier. When she’s “out” (unobstructed by clouds), nothing compares. Washington has it all and I love it here.
I hope to convince residents to get out and enjoy their state, their Evergreen State.
For travelers, whether you are visiting for a weekend, a week, or a month, I have outlined, in an easy-to-follow format, all you need to know to enjoy your time in Washington. I hope you will find the information helpful.
Table of Contents
Top 20 Things to Do in Washington State
Hoh Rainforest – Olympic National Park
Upon moving to the Pacific Northwest, I could hardly wait to visit Olympic National Park. At the top of my list was The Hoh Rainforest. I had anticipated for months getting to experience this old-growth temperate rainforest. It did not disappoint.
The Hall of Mosses Trail and The Spruce Nature Trail are easy loops that include old growth, new growth, and moss-draped maple trees.
The Hoh River Trail is the primary trail branching off to numerous trails and camping areas. The full trail is 34-miles out and back. Certainly not an easy day hike. Leading through old-growth moss-covered trees, the glorious end-result is a panoramic view of Blue Glacier and Mount Olympus.
Hurricane Ridge – Olympic National Park
Hurricane Ridge is the most easily accessed mountain area in Olympic National Park and offers trails for all levels of experience. The visitor center offers exhibits, an orientation movie, brochures, and restrooms. Choose from about 8 dirt and paved trails to enjoy forests, glacial views, and wildlife.
Hurricane Hill is the most popular trail at Hurricane Ridge. This moderate 3-mile out and back paved trail has views of deep ravines, royal blue waters, vivid green grasses, snowcapped mountains, and mountain goats.
Visit a Lavender Farm
Lavender is abundant in Washington with the Sequim-Dungeness Valley offering the best of growing conditions. Located in a “rain shadow” created by the Olympic Mountains, the combination of dry soil, 300 days of sunshine, and cool summer air from the Strait of Juan de Fuca, makes this valley the home to several lavender farms.
Purple Haze Lavender Farm has been named one of the most Instagram-worthy lavender farms in the United States. The farm offers u-pick harvesting, vacation rentals, and serves as a wedding and event venue.
With the various colors and smells of lavender wafting in the breeze, the buzz of bumble and honey bees, and the tastes of lavender ice cream and lavender lemonade, the farm entices all the senses. Located only a few miles from the Olympic National Park entrance, it is an experience you don’t want to miss.
Take the Blackball Ferry to Victoria, B.C.
One of my favorite adventures while visiting the Olympic National Park area was taking the 90-minute journey on the Blackball Ferry from Port Angeles to Victoria in British Columbia, Canada.
Arriving by ferry in the charming Victoria Harbour was a unique experience. The harbour waters serve as an airport…a seaplane airport. And there was just so much activity with seaplanes landing and floating alongside our ferry as we all approached our docking stations. The historic Fairmont Empress Hotel welcoming us into the harbour made the entire experience feel a bit dreamy.
Many of the buildings in Victoria are illuminated with white holiday-style lighting making it feel like Christmas year-round.
The Parliament Building is a spectacular sight. On weekdays, as well as when the legislative body is in session, self-guided and guided tours are offered. The 45-minute guided tour is well worth it. The tour guide offers a great history of British Columbia and there is often an appearance by Queen Victoria, a young actor dressed in period costume.
Be sure to at the least walk through the Fairmont Empress Hotel or even make reservations to enjoy High Tea in the Lobby Lounge. Tailored to suit the tastes of all ages, the High Tea culinary experience has been an important part of Victoria for more than 100 years.
Simply walking Government Street and enjoying the shops, restaurants, and bars in their historic buildings makes for a great weekend.
Traveling into Victoria from Washington State requires a passport. Plan for about 30 minutes to get through customs.
Hike Mount Ellinor and Staircase Rapids – Olympic National Forest
Mount Ellinor is a strenuous, 6-mile round-trip day hike with 3,344 ft. in elevation gain. The trail is well maintained with rock and wood plank steps which helps in the steep incline and descent. Hiking poles are helpful and bug spray is a must as well as plenty of water.
Watch for chipmunks along the way and take a break about three-quarters of the way up at the obvious vista. Enjoy the view and the fearless birds waiting to be offered a snack. Then find your last burst of energy and head to the summit.
On a clear day, the summit offers indescribable 360-degree views. Mountain goats make a regular appearance as well, though these non-native goats are slated to be relocated to other mountainous areas.
This is a strenuous vertical hike. There is no shame in approaching via an upper trailhead which shaves off 1,300 feet of gain and 3.5 miles.
Next up, Staircase Rapids. The Staircase Rapids trail offers a complimentary relaxed yen to Mount Ellinor’s strenuous yang. It is an easy 2-mile heavily trafficked loop that follows the North Fork of the Skokomish River upstream where ferns and mosses thrive. Enjoy Slate Creek and a suspension bridge along the way.
Gather Oysters and Clams at Mike’s Beach Resort
Mike’s Beach Resort is the perfect low-key lake-style lodge to return to after a day of hiking and exploring Mount Ellinor, Staircase Rapids, or the nearby Lake Cushman. Located on the Hood Canal, a distinct oyster-growing locale, oyster connoisseurs will detect the subtleties of oysters harvested here. (As a side note, the Hood Canal is not an actual canal in the sense of being a man-made waterway, but is a fjord, a long narrow valley inlet carved by glacial activity.)
Whether an oyster connoisseur or just a novice oyster lover like me, there is nothing more fun than gathering and preparing your own “farm-to-table” shellfish. Do that here at Mike’s. Mike’s offers sweet waterfront cabins as well as tent camping, RV spaces, a boat launch, a kid’s play area, oyster and clam gathering, scuba air fills, and a scuba gear drying room.
Why scuba gear facilities? Because the Hood Canal is home to a huge Pacific octopus’ habitat. So cool!
Visit Gig Harbor, Washington
I live in Gig Harbor. It is the best place I have ever lived in. A historic yet modern fishing town with a prominent Croatian influence and working deep-sea fishing vessels, being in Gig Harbor feels a bit like being on a Hallmark movie set.
Gig Harbor hosts a fantastic annual Maritime Festival with a robust parade and “The Blessing of the Fleet.”
“The Blessing of the Fleet” includes a somber bag-pipped walking procession to the docks where a wreath is dropped into the harbor in remembrance of fishermen lost at sea. The working fishing vessels, packed with family and friends for a day of imbibed celebration before the crews set out to sea, are lined up side-by-side where a local priest is boated to each to offer a water gun blessing. What a sweet tradition.
A few years ago, Gig Harbor received another special blessing, the appearance of a Venetian-trained gondolier and his 36-foot authentic Venetian gondola, “Nelly.” I enjoyed this incredible sunset harbor tour with friends. We were so pleasantly surprised by the gondolier’s beautiful rendition of “O Sole Mio.”
Gig Harbor also hosts an annual Christmas parade of boats, and Santa and his elves on SUPs are not uncommon holiday sites.
Gig Harbor is home to Tides Tavern, a 21+ pub-style restaurant serving healthy fare with outdoor seating and a view of Mount Rainier. Heritage Distilling Co. and 7 Seas Brewery and Tap Room also are great spots to enjoy a drink in an open-air space.
The harbor offers beautiful views for walking and shopping as well as a modern Harbor History Museum where you can tour a historic one-room schoolhouse and the ongoing restoration project of the 65-foot purse seiner, Shenandoah. Gig Harbor truly has it all.
Visit Tacoma, Washington
Nestled between Puget Sound and Mt. Rainier, Tacoma is a bustling center of Pacific Northwest industry and culture.
Near the University of Washington Tacoma campus, enjoy the Chihuly Bridge of Glass, an open-air bridge full of encased blown glass art. The bridge leads to a premier glass blowing facility (hot shop) that hosts nationally and internationally-known glass artists. While in the area visit the Museum of Glass as well as the Washington State History Museum, a well-curated modern museum covering the history of Washington’s best and worst times.
Tacoma is home to Point Defiance Park, an expansive space to enjoy forested walking trails full of ferns and mosses, bluffs of sweeping views of the Puget Sound for whale watching, and a beautiful beach (Owen Beach). The fantastic Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium is located inside the park.
Bird and wildlife watchers will enjoy the Nisqually National Wildlife refuge. This converted farm located on the Nisqually River Delta is an easy 30-mile drive south of Tacoma in Olympia, WA. The Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge consists of three thousand acres of salt and freshwater marshes, grasslands, and forest. The accessible boardwalk stretches 2 miles one way to the Puget Sound. During high tide, watch for eagles swooping to catch their breakfast, and expect to see seagulls and maybe even a seal.
Pike Place Market
Seattle’s most visited landmark, Pike Place Market was opened in 1907 and is one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers’ markets in the U.S.
Fish throwing at the fish market is the most popular event at Pike Place. You can’t miss the crowds around the fish market counter waiting for someone to buy a fish to be thrown. Upon our first visit to the market, we chose to purchase a whole salmon. We felt like rock stars as the crowd cheered our purchase and witnessed the “throwing.”
The entire area is a fun place to walk and enjoy fresh flowers, fresh fruit, and just about fresh everything.
There are a few levels in the market so take time to be curious and explore. I counted at least 30 bars and restaurants, and over 40 retail stores in the area.
Check out the Polish Pottery Place just below the fish market. From the fish market, a short way north on Pike Place is the original Starbucks outlet. Be ready to wait in a long line if you want to boast of having purchased a coffee here.
Be sure to explore Post Alley. Tucked in between Pike Place and 1st Avenue, it extends several blocks at both street level and partially beneath the market. The Pink Door, a kitschy Italian restaurant, as well as the infamous Gum Wall can be found in this alley.
Space Needle
The Space Needle can be seen peeking out in between the buildings from just about anywhere in Seattle and seeing it up close is a great experience. Take a ride to the top for panoramic views of Seattle, Puget Sound, the Cascade Mountains, and the Olympic Mountains. The tilting glass walls, glass benches, and a revolving glass floor add to an already incredible experience.
Grab an espresso, beer, or wine as well as a cupcake or ice cream from the café or local establishments.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery
Chateau Ste. Michelle is just exquisite. This French-style chateau once belonged to a lumber baron and is the oldest winery in Washington. The tasting area is massive and offers “rooms” and spaces with various feels and tasting opportunities. During the summer months, the expansive 80-acre lawn serves as a concert venue and has hosted musicians such as John Legend, Blondie, Ray LaMontagne, and Lyle Lovett.
Guided Tour Options:
Snoqualmie Falls and Woodinville Wine Tasting
San Juan Islands
This group of islands is located between Washington State and Canada’s Vancouver Island. There are 172 named islands and reefs in the San Juan’s with ferry service to major islands including San Juan Island, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island.
San Juan Island is distinguished by the popular tourist town of Friday Harbor, whale watching excursions, and Lime Kiln Point State Park. Orcas Island has Moran State Park and Mt. Constitution, and Lopez Island offers relaxed beach walking, biking, or fishing.
Kayaking is a great way to explore the vast waters of the area, see porpoises, dolphins, and harbor seals, and view unique sea creatures exposed along rocky cliffs at low tide.
Bull kelp floats in clumps near the rocky cliffs. Like any vegetable, it can be eaten raw, dried, baked, or sauteed. For fun, try stripping off a few blades. Wash, dry, and bake. Voila! Seaweed chips naturally salted by the waters of the Puget Sound.
Explore Washington Beaches
Beach walking is one of my favorite things to do in Washington State. I have listed a few unique beaches worth exploring.
The popular Alki Point offers a touristy beach-town feel. Located in West Seattle, it is a fun, active, happy place offering an expansive beachfront and beach-style cafés and restaurants. Seattlites love to escape the city to enjoy this beach.
Three Tree Point is a lesser-known beach about halfway in between Tacoma and Seattle. I love this beach so much. It is a great place for collecting sea glass, discovering sea stars and sand dollars, and scanning the waters for whale blows. And there’s that Mount Rainier view again.
Many Washington beaches are active with scuba divers, kayakers, windsurfers, fishermen, and Dungeness crabbers. Don’t be surprised if someone shares their catch-of-the-day with you.
Shi Shi Beach’s Point of Arches rock formations are among the most photographed on the Pacific Coast. To get to Point of Arches, take the easy 2-mile hike, crossing bridges and boardwalks, and slogging through mud. Once at the beach, enjoy beach-walking for another 2 miles to reach these incredible formations. Point of Arches is an inspirational and mesmerizing mile-long display of rocky arches and sea stacks. Sunsets here are a special sight to behold.
Head south along the pacific coast to Ruby Beach. Just off the highway, you will find a parking area and a short steep trail leading to the beach. At low tide, sea stacks and tide pools full of sea creatures can be easily accessed.
Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie Falls is one of the most popular scenic attractions in Washington and is crazy easy to get to. Massive and impressive and certainly worth a visit.
The falls area offers a large park, gift shop, observation deck, and a lodge.
Guided Tour Options:
Snoqualmie Falls and Woodinville Wine Tasting
Hike Rattlesnake Ridge
The summit of Rattlesnake Ridge was one of my favorite hiking destinations. There are no magnificent waterfalls at the summit, just one of the most beautiful, and somewhat frightening lake overlooks I have experienced. And the cutest little chipmunks dart out from the cliffs to nab nuts and bits of snacks. It is an easy joyful hiking experience.
Hike a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail
Backpackers who complete Washington’s Snoqualmie Pass-Stevens Pass segment of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) will hike through some of the most remote and diverse mountain country along the entire PCT.
I had lived in Washington for a while before I realized that there was a PCT trailhead just over an hour from my home. I could not resist the opportunity to place my feet onto this trail.
The PCT Lodge Lake Trailhead is located adjacent to The Summit at Snoqualmie Ski resort. During the summer months, the trail is fairly easy to follow cutting across wildflower-covered ski slopes and bypassing a sweet little lake, Lodge Lake. Though I chose to do a simple out and back, it was a fun experience getting to take a stroll on the PCT.
Visit Leavenworth, Washington
My first Christmas in Washington my husband and youngest son visited Leavenworth, a Bavarian-styled village in the Cascade Mountains. The alpine-style buildings lining Front Street were full of german everything.
There was a Nutcracker Museum that houses nutcrackers dating back centuries, Ganz Klasse (a home goods store), Der Sportsmann (a sporting-goods store), and Schocolat (a chocolate shop).
We noticed a crazy long line at Munchen Hause, a quaint outdoor beer garden, and were compelled to check it out. As far as I can remember, I have never experienced the feel of such freezing cold on my face as we stood in line. But it was worth it! What a sweet establishment with only outdoor seating warmed by overhead heaters. I am not a big fan of beer, but the combination of bratwurst and beer in this precious town was heart, soul, and body-warming.
Located on the beautiful Wenatchee River and close to ski areas and wineries, Leavenworth is a magical place. Especially at Christmas-time.
Mission Ridge Skiing and Snowboarding
Mission Ridge Ski and Board Resort is one of the most popular ski resorts in Washington. It is a cozy little area with fairly vertical slopes. While my family enjoyed a day of snowboarding and skiing, I chose to take a single ski run then settled into the comfortable lodge to enjoy a book and a drink. The ski runs were a bit too vertical and snow a bit too icy for me. My perspective is as a novice skier who learned on the dry soft powder of Park City, Utah. I am not complaining. The day was fantastic and we ALL had a blast.
Mount Rainier National Park
Pictures cannot convey the splendor of Mount Rainier. With a comfortable visitor center, and trails running along rivers and fields of blooming wildflowers, visiting Mount Rainier National Park is a great way to experience the mountain.
The Paradise Jackson Visitor Center, located in the upper parking area, is a good place to begin. In the summer months, the lot fills up early and expect to park in the lower lot. The visitor center offers general information, exhibits, a park film, guided ranger programs, a gift shop, and a cafeteria. It is usually open daily from May to early October. From mid-October through April, it is usually open only on weekends and holidays.
Located near the visitor center, the historic Paradise Inn offers lodging, a dining room, and a gift shop and is usually open from mid-May to early-October.
From the visitor center follow the steps to several trails that lead to views of Mount Rainier, meadows, and wildlife.
Here are a few 1 and 2.5-mile hikes that guarantee a visually-pleasing experience:
Follow Nisqually Vista Trail about 1 mile to views of the Nisqually Glacier.
Follow Skyline Trail about 1 mile to Myrtle Falls.
Follow Deadhorse Creek Trail and Morraine Trail about 2.5 miles to Glacier views.
Follow Alta Vista Trail about 2 miles to wildflower viewing.
Narada Falls is a tiered waterfall that can be seen in part from a pull-out parking lot. The pull-out offers plenty of parking spaces, picnic tables, and nearby restrooms. Navigate down a short but steep .1 mile path to view Narada Falls in its full glory. It is a sight to behold.
Guided Tour Options:
Mt. Rainier All-Inclusive Small-Group Tour
Mt. Rainier Day Hike and Picnic Lunch
Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument
The allure of Mount Helens for many is the knowledge of the devastating 1980 eruption. At the Johnston Ridge Observatory, dedicated to David Johnston, the young volcanologist who lost his life the day of the eruption, you will find a striking vantage point of the West side of the mountain. Viewing this blown-out portion of the mountain as well as the hardened flow-path of molten lava makes for an unforgettable and somber experience. Leave plenty of time to explore the history, photos, video clips, and exhibits inside the observatory.
Guided Tour Options:
Mount Saint Helens National Monument Small-Group Tour
A Few Eating and Drinking Recommendations
Hama Hama Oysters
35846 US-101, Lilliwaup, WA 98555
A rustic year-round outdoor only oyster and clam eating experience. One of my favorite summer outings. (Bundle up in the winter months!)
The Butcher and The Baker
4719 NE State Hwy 104, Port Gamble, WA 98364
A unique experience with a menu that changes with the seasons but almost always includes the beloved fried chicken sandwich. Expect a regular assortment of cookies, pies, and cakes as well as provisions from local mom and pop shops including salamis, honey, jam, and coffee beans.
The 10 Acres Commons
620 Humboldt St, Victoria, BC V8W 1A4, Canada
Serving THE freshest salmon salad I have ever tasted.
Tides Tavern
2925 Harborview Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Serving THE best gluten-free pizza I have ever tasted. Try the Classic with Pesto Sauce.
Heritage Distilling Co – 4 locations
1836 NW Market Street, Seattle, WA 98107
1201 10th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
3118 Harborview Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
101 E Pennsylvania Ave, Roslyn, WA 98941
110 Madison St, Eugene, OR 97402
A great experience for fun crafty drinks and uniquely flavored vodkas, bourbons, whiskey, and more. Every location has a great vibe.
Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar – 3 Seattle Locations
Seattle Center: 124 Republican St, Seattle, WA 98109
Capitol Hill: 1521 Melrose Avenue, Seattle, WA 98122
Pioneer Square: 410 Accidental Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104
For fresh local oysters and seafood, this is the place. The Taylor Shellfish Farm/Hatchery is a trusted local operation and has been featured on Mike Rowe’s Dirty Jobs. For a fun time, search “Geoduck Mike Rowe.”
The Pink Door
1919 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101
Offering fresh Italian food in a fun atmosphere. Enjoy a circus-type burlesque show every Saturday evening.
Matt’s in The Market
94 Pike St #32, Seattle, WA 98101
Small portion fresh plates using fresh fish and vegetables from the market below.
Bite of Seattle Food and Beverage Festival
If you are in Seattle in mid-July, grab a “brick” of fries at the premier annual food and beverage festival, Bite of Seattle, held on the campus of Seattle Center.
While exploring the Olympic National Park, Olympic National Forest, or any other remote areas of Washington State, be prepared for seasonal and unplanned remote restaurant and café closures by carrying non-perishable meals and snacks.
For more Seattle area places to eat and drink, see my post, Top 20 Things To Do In Seattle, Washington.
A Few Lodge, Campsite, and Hotel Recommendations
Hoh Valley Cabins at Elk Meadows
5843 Upper Hoh Rd, Forks, WA 98331
Recently built upscale cabins with kitchenettes, LCD TVs, and modern décor. Located 12 miles from the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center.
Heart O’ the Hills Campground
2823 S Oak St, Port Angeles, WA 98362
Open year-round with 105 campsites among old-growth forest. Located 12 miles north of Hurricane Ridge, and 5 miles south of Port Angeles.
Mike’s Beach Resort
38470 US-101, Lilliwaup, WA 98555
A fun lake-style rustic lodge on the east side of the Olympic National Forest on the Hood Canal. Located 15 miles from Lake Cushman and access to several popular trailheads.
The Fairmont Empress Hotel
721 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1W5, Canada
An upscale 4-star hotel experience located on the banks of Victoria Harbour.
Hotel Grand Pacific
463 Belleville St, Victoria, BC V8V 1X3, Canada
An affordable 4-star hotel conveniently located near the Victoria Harbour ferry dock.
Alderbrook Resort and Spa
10 E Alderbrook Dr, Union, WA 98592
A local favorite for weekend getaways as well as a popular wedding and event venue. Upscale yet rustic with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains. Located on the south shore of the Hood Canal along a scenic route about halfway between Seattle and the Olympic Peninsula. Don’t miss the Darby Waterwheel located a short walk from the resort.
Ship Harbor Inn
5316 Ferry Terminal Rd, Anacortes, WA 98221
A sweet simple lodge offering free to-go breakfasts for those on the go. Located just minutes from the Anacortes Ferry Terminal where ferry sailings are scheduled to various San Juan Islands or Sidney, B.C.
See my post, Top 20 Things To Do In Seattle, Washington, for a list of hotels in the Seattle area.
Getting Around Washington
Rental Car or Personal Car
If you plan to rent a car, compare prices and book in advance to ensure availability.
Ferries
The Washington Ferry system and other ferry systems travel between various Washington ferry terminals as well as Canada’s Victoria, B.C., and Sidney, B.C.
Washington State Bus Routes
Grape Line – Service connects passengers with Greyhound, Amtrak, Ben Franklin Transit and Valley Transit. Visit the Grape Line website for fares, schedules, and tickets.
Dungeness Line – The Dungeness Line serves the Olympic Peninsula, connecting in Port Angeles, Port Townsend, Seattle, and Sea-Tac International Airport with links to Greyhound, Amtrak, and Washington State Ferries to Victoria, B.C. Visit the Dungeness Line website for fares, schedule, and tickets.
Apple Line – The Apple Line follows a 160-mile route through Omak, Ellensburg, and Wenatchee with connections to Amtrak, Northwestern Trailways, and Greyhound. Visit the Apple Line website for fares, schedules, and tickets.
Gold Line – The Gold Line travels twice daily along US 395, connecting Colville, Arden, Addy, Chewelah, Loon Lake, and Deer Park to Spokane and key transit hubs, including Spokane International Airport. Visit the Gold Line website for fares, schedules, and tickets.
Sounder Transit Trains
Sounder Trains travel between Lakewood and Seattle (making stops in Tacoma, Puyallup, Sumner, Auburn, Kent, and Tukwila) and between Everett and Seattle (making stops in Mukilteo and Edmonds).
Sound Transit Link Light Rail
Link Light Rail travels between Sea-Tac Airport and UW Station making 13 stops along the way, including downtown Seattle.
Rideshare
Uber and Lyft are good options for getting around populated areas. Be cautious and use all advertised rideshare safety measures.
Package Deals and Guided Tours
Snoqualmie Falls and Woodinville Wine Tasting
Start your tour with a short drive across Lake Washington stopping at one of Washington’s most breathtaking attractions, the Snoqualmie Falls then through the Woodinville Wine Region to savor local wines. The tour highlights 3 award-winning boutique wineries selected from Lauren Ashton Cellars, Celaeno, Church Winery, Kestrel Vintners, Martedi Winery, Patterson Cellars, or Chateau Ste. Michelle.
Mt. Rainier All-Inclusive Small-Group Tour
Discover Mt. Rainier like never before on this day-long, guided walk or snowshoe adventure with a stop for lunch. Learn local secrets as you enjoy spectacular scenery and explore thrilling trails.
Olympic National Park Small-Group Tour
Explore the rugged and beautiful World Heritage Site, the Olympic National Park, with your small group in a comfortable van, an award-winning local guide, a beautiful lunch, local wine, snacks, and drinks.
Check out my post, Top 20 Things To Do In Seattle, for information on Seattle area attractions, restaurants, and accommodations. Seattle package deals and guided tours include:
Seattle CityPass
Seattle Underground Walking Tour
3-Hour City Highlights Tour
Seattle Urban Adventure Quest Team Scavenger Hunt
Boeing Factory and Future of Flight Tour
Expand Your Adventure Beyond Washington State
Take a short direct flight from Seattle to Glacier International Airport or Salt Lake City to explore three incredible National Parks. See my Glacier, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton National Park Travel Guide.
Or, head down to the amazing state of Utah. See my Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary.
Coming soon: Top Things to Do in Salt Lake City and Park City.
Now, just a few things to remember before heading to Washington State…
Check the weather before you go and always pack for comfort and versatility. During the summer months, the days are most often sunny with cool mornings and evenings, and highs in the mid-70s. The winter months are most often cloudy with light rain or mist. Winter temperatures rarely drop below 40. Whether summer or winter, I always carry my Patagonia lightweight hooded down jacket and dress in layers. If planning any type of hiking or backcountry excursions be sure to take the 10 essentials. REI.com is a great resource for expert advice on outdoor basics.
Visit the Washinton Trails Association website for information on required recreation passes and permits.
Purchase a Discover Pass to save on Washington State Park/ Public Land/Trailhead entrance fees.
Purchase an America The Beautiful Pass to save on National Park entrance fees.
A few of my favorites for exploring Washington include my Ahnu Hiking shoes (lightweight for easy and moderate hikes), my Eddie Bauer Sling Backpack (for easy and moderate hikes with just enough room for the 10 Essentials and a pair of flip flops), my Kuhl hiking pants (great for Washington dry summers and wet winters), my Sanuk Yoga Mat flip flops (great for the beach and nothing feels better after a hike than slipping on a pair of flip flops), and my Sperry Rain Boots (lightweight comfort for those rainy winter days).
Don’t forget travel insurance!
Travel insurance covers unexpected events such as re-booking flights due to airline cancellations, replacement of belongings when luggage is lost, replacement of stolen items, or emergency travel home due to accident or illness. I recommend World Nomads, an insurance provider trusted by seasoned travelers worldwide.
Also, check out my road trip packing list.
Be prepared and be safe out there!
Trust your senses.
Trust your gut.
If you’ve planned well and it feels right, do it!
If it doesn’t feel right, don’t.
There are so many things to do in Washington State. I hope this travel guide will be helpful as you plan your visit. I would love to hear about your experiences exploring Washington!
