Things to Do in Washington State
The best state parks are dotted throughout the Pacific Northwest. Columbia Hills and Beacon Rock State Parks are ideal for camping trips. You can opt for the Cape Horn Loop Trail for hiking, which takes you to a gorge lookout. Dog Mountain is draped in colorful flowers, and you can also see elk in the park. If you’re into hiking, there are several state parks offering campgrounds.
Lake Chelan
If you love the great outdoors, you might want to visit Lake Chelan, a narrow, 50.5-mile-long lake located in north-central Washington state. Before 1927, it was the largest natural lake in the state. The lake has great natural beauty, and many people visit this area to enjoy the water and the outdoors. During your visit, check out nearby towns to see available activities.
One of the best ways to enjoy Lake Chelan is by taking a scenic boat ride. You can spend the day on the water or rent a paddle boat. There are several tours offered by the boat, and you can even get access to some of the remote campsites or areas that aren’t easily accessible by land. You’ll have a wonderful time with your family and friends at Lake Chelan.
Another fun activity to enjoy in the area is fishing. While Lake Chelan is a perfect setting for fishing, you’ll need to know the rules. To fish in the lake, you must first register with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. You can purchase a permit at Chelan Walmart or Kelly Ace Hardware, and if you’re unsure of the rules, ask the local tourism board. After you’ve registered, you can rent a boat and take advantage of its many features.
The area around Lake Chelan is also great for hiking. There are trails for every level of hiker. There’s a long sandy beach, shaded picnic tables, and a serene lagoon. A 50.5-mile lake with a depth of 1,486 feet is a popular attraction for hikers, boaters, and anglers. The region is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding wilderness areas.
When visiting Lake Chelan, including time to explore the area’s wineries. The area is home to some of the state’s most popular vineyards. Aside from wine tasting, the area is also an excellent destination for hiking and agritourism. There’s something for everyone in the family, and you’re sure to find something to enjoy. This article may contain affiliate links. I earn a small commission when you purchase an item through these links.
Mount Rainier National Park
If you’re looking for an unforgettable holiday, consider visiting Mount Rainier National Park, Washington’s highest peak. It’s open year-round, but the winter season is typically chilly and snowy. Summer is the best time to visit, but you can always enjoy the park’s scenic views in autumn. However, June and July can be a crapshoot. If you’d like to see Mount Rainier at its most beautiful, try visiting in July or August.
The park is easy to reach from Portland and Seattle. However, the peak can get quite busy on weekends. Arrive at the park early and avoid the crowds. Parking lots can fill up quickly, so make sure you bring warm clothes and sunscreen. Also, keep in mind that the park is subject to sudden changes in weather. For instance, the western side of the mountain gets more rain than the eastern.
While visiting the park, you can spot some wildlife in its native habitat. You can observe Douglas squirrels, black-tailed deer, chipmunks, and hoary marmots. Other species of animals that are common in the park include black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, and porcupines. You can also enjoy the beauty of wildflowers and shrubbery.
In Mount Rainier, you can hike up to 7000 feet on some trails. There are many 6000-7000-foot-high peaks and trails in the park. At this altitude, it can be difficult to breathe! And since the weather is usually milder in the area, snow rarely falls during the summer. A great hike is the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail.
Take tire chains if you’re planning a winter vacation in the Northwest. The park requires tire chains for all vehicles, regardless of the season or weather. Mount Rainier is a world-record holder for annual snowfall, and the record minimum was set in the winter of 2014-2015. But don’t worry! You’ll still have an unforgettable vacation in the Pacific Northwest!
Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument
During your trip to Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument, you can hike through the old-growth forests and witness the lava casts. You can even view Mt Rainier in the distance, but you won’t want to camp on the site. Because of the volcano’s active nature, you won’t want to bring pets or horses. Camping is also prohibited.
You can also visit Johnston Ridge Observatory, named for a former volcanologist who was killed in the 1980 eruption. It’s located directly in the blast zone at the end of State Highway 504. The observatory has a viewing platform that gives you an up-close look at the geology and crater. The observatory also offers interpretive displays and award-winning films about the volcano.
Visiting the volcano’s area is a great way to experience the unique landscapes and fascinating history. Mount St Helens was an active volcano and sent volcanic ash across the east coast. It created a horseshoe-shaped crater and blasted off part of the mountain. Visiting the area is an excellent way to learn about the area’s geological past, and you can get your hands dirty hiking the trails.
For those looking for an easy hike, a popular route through the volcano’s crater is Highway 504 (Spirt Lake Memorial Byway). This scenic highway is open from May through October. Hikers prefer to hike on the mountain’s east side, where the path reaches a valley in front of the mountain. At this viewpoint, you can see a glimpse of the eruption blast and take in the view of the crater from a high vantage point.
If you’re traveling with kids, the Johnston Ridge Visitor Center is an excellent way to learn about the mountain’s history. The museum includes interactive movies and educational exhibits for children and adults. Visitors can also take virtual helicopter tours to witness the destruction caused by the 1980 eruption. You can also visit the Johnson Ridge Observatory, which provides excellent views of the volcano’s collapse.
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
The annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is one of the many spring events in Washington state. It takes place every April in the Skagit Valley, a few hours north of Seattle. This event is not missed if you’re a fan of the colorful flowers. The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival brochure is filled with tips for visitors and includes suggestions for stops in Mount Vernon and Anacortes.
During the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, you can visit the fields of tulips to purchase beautiful springtime blooms. While you’re there, be sure to follow signs that say not to walk among the flowers – this will ruin the crop and introduce bacteria and germs to the groundwater. Some fields even prohibit parking, so make sure to plan accordingly. After your visit, be sure to enjoy the sights and taste the delicious foods.
After your visit to the fields, you can enjoy the tulip festival. There are over three hundred acres of tulip fields, each of which will bloom at different times of the day. You can buy your tulip bulbs as Skagit County grows over a million. And since the tulips bloom over a month, you can still catch a tulip blooming throughout the month. But remember that Mother Nature sets the schedule, so you may not find them in full bloom when you visit.
While the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is an annual springtime tradition, you can also visit the fields for wine tasting, local goodies, and activities. You can also take a scenic helicopter ride over the bloom fields to see the stunning colors. And, if you’re looking for a way to combine your visit with some fun tulip adventures, Mount Vernon is a great choice.
If you’re looking for more than tulips, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is worth visiting. There are three world-famous gardens that you can visit during the festival. RoozenGaarde, the largest tulip field in the United States, has more than 100 varieties of flowers, including a daffodil field. You can even visit a full-size Dutch windmill.
Where to Go Sightseeing in Washington State
If you’re wondering where to go sightseeing in Washington state, you’ve come to the right place. This Pacific Northwest state has incredible natural beauty, from Snoqualmie Falls to Olympic National Park. From historic parks to a world-class brewery, the state is home to some of the best attractions in the country. No matter your interests, you’ll find something in Washington that will satisfy your sense of adventure.
Snoqualmie Falls
If you’re planning to spend the weekend in Seattle, you should consider visiting the nearby town of Snoqualmie. The town is a great jumping-off point for exploring Seattle’s cultural offerings. The town is less than 30 miles east of Seattle and has several bus lines. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a long weekend getaway, you’ll find the area prime for cultural experiences. The nearby Chihuly Garden of Glass and Olympic Sculpture Park are two cultural attractions you can’t miss.
If you’re looking for something more active to do, consider a short hike along the boardwalk or dirt pathway that follows the river. The boardwalk leads you close to the base of the waterfall. You’ll see salmonberry, vine maple, alder, and Douglas fir trees. Those who like to hike will enjoy the beautiful scenery and the beautiful wildlife. The Falls are most impressive during spring.
Olympic National Park
The Olympic National Park is an extraordinary place, located in the farthest northwest corner of the contiguous U.S. The park is filled with jaw-dropping vistas and hiking trails. Its location on the Olympic Peninsula makes it a convenient weekend getaway from Seattle. Visiting the park during the winter will provide a spectacular snowy landscape, and you can also enjoy some of the many winter activities such as ice fishing and skiing.
If you love hiking, you’ll love the 4.7-mile Mount Storm King Trail, an out-and-back trail that climbs over two thousand feet in a short distance. Although this trail is difficult for the unfit, it offers an incredible view of Lake Crescent, including a rare inversion. Hiking in this area is a memorable experience. If you’re a nature lover, you can spend some time hiking along the nearby trails, or you can spend some time hiking along the pristine lakes.
If you’re a first-time visitor to Olympic National Park, be prepared to pack the proper clothing. While it may be cold in the mornings, you should bring a jacket and a hat. Also, bear spray is a must for any backcountry hikers. The park has many water features, including waterfalls and lakes. If you’re visiting during the summer, you’ll need bug repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes. For a comfortable hike, you should pack a bug hat to keep those annoying gnats away.
Palouse Falls State Park
If you love waterfalls, Palouse Falls is a must-see sight in Washington. This picturesque 200-foot waterfall sits along the Palouse River. The water cascades from a narrow cataract over a cliff into a circular pool framed by canyon walls. The waterfall was formed by the retreating waters of a massive glacier during the Ice Age. From the parking area, you can view this stunning sight. Alternatively, you can hike to the viewpoint above the falls and explore the canyon walls.
This picturesque waterfall is the perfect place for a family picnic. The park is a great location for photography, too. Its 94-acre nature preserve is a popular picnic and birding spot. If you’re looking for a unique vacation spot, you should visit Palouse Falls State Park. It’s located in the southeast corner of Washington State. This scenic area is only two hours from Spokane. It’s a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts who want to get out of the city and experience the natural beauty of Washington state.
San Juan Islands National Historical Park
The American and English Camps on San Juan Island are a must-see attraction. Located on the island of San Juan in Washington, this park is a U.S. National Historic Park. If you love history, you’ll enjoy this park, which features American and English campsites. You’ll need to take a ferry from Vancouver to San Juan Island to see the historical sites in person.
The islands are a short drive from the Seattle metropolitan area, but they feel like worlds away. Once you’re there, you may never want to go back to the busy city life. Despite their close proximity to Seattle, this island getaway has plenty to offer tourists and locals alike. From nature-loving hikes to kayaking excursions, there’s something for everyone. The park is filled with wildlife, including dolphins and orcas, so you’ll never get bored.
The San Juan Islands National Historical Park includes several historic sites from the mid-1850s. The San Juan Islands were claimed by the United States and Great Britain, but ultimately, the matter was settled peacefully. During that time, the islands were a battlefield for both nations, and the island’s vistas and beaches were perfect for capturing the drama. Visitors can hike through the park and tide pool, watch wildlife, and earn their Junior Ranger badges. Best of all, there’s no entrance fee!
Seattle’s Great Wheel
If you’re looking for a different way to see the sights in Seattle, the city’s 53-meter-high Great Wheel is a must-visit. Sitting in an air-conditioned gondola, you can take 360-degree views of the port city. You’ll also be amazed by the city’s skyline. There are plenty of reasons to visit Seattle.
Besides the Great Wheel, there’s also the Space Needle. From its vantage point, you’ll be able to view Seattle’s skyline, the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges, as well as the Puget Sound islands. You can even ride the wheel, which is famous for its iconic image. The Seattle Aquarium is a popular spot, with touch tanks filled with colorful sea anemones and tropical fish, as well as aquarium seals and sea otters.
Near the Space Needle, the Pacific Science Center features works by Roxy Paine, Ellsworth Kelly, and Richard Serra. You can also get an incredible view of downtown Seattle and the Puget Sound from the top of the Great Wheel. You can also check out the Chihuly Garden and Glass, which features works by Dale Chihuly, and the Space Needle itself. The city’s other attractions include the Washington State Aquarium, Seattle Space Needle, and the World’s Fair.
Olympia’s Museum of Flight
If you want to see planes and the people who built them, head to Olympia’s Museum of Flight. Located on Olympia’s State Capitol grounds, this museum features an air-show simulator and an informative display of aircraft and flight history. The dome of the capitol building looks out over the city’s capitol lake. There are self-guided tours available, and you can even purchase souvenirs. You’ll also want to check out the natural beauty of Olympia.
This museum contains an Air Force One jet that has been taken out of service and WWII airplanes. Visitors can also check out a full-size replica of the International Space Station’s research lab. The museum also features a 3D Movie Theater, the Flight Simulator, and a Kid’s Flight Zone where kids can learn about the history of flying and learn about astronauts.
Olympia’s Underground
The Underground is a unique form of sightseeing in Olympia, a series of tunnels and underground passages. Visitors can take guided or self-guided tours and purchase souvenirs to take home. The Underground is a great way to see more of the state’s natural areas. Here’s what to expect during your tour. You might even find a treasure trove of artifacts and memorabilia.
The Olympia Farmers Market has been around for 41 years. You can buy locally grown fruits and vegetables, and even buy artisan crafts and meats. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, from casual brew pubs to ubiquitous coffee houses, which all feature locally-sourced food. In addition, you’ll find 96 kilometers of wine country and distilleries on the Thurston Bountiful Byway.
Olympia’s coffeehouses
Regarding coffee, Olympia, Washington state, is one of the top cities to visit. It is also home to the headquarters of Starbucks, so coffee is a huge part of the city’s culture. Its rainy and cold weather make it a great place to grab a cup of Joe. There are several coffee shops to choose from, so finding a place to get your caffeine fix should be easy.
The Mud Bay Coffee Company is another coffeehouse worth checking out. This coffee roaster has a retail location in Olympia, near the Olympia West shopping center. It uses a small roasting method to preserve the unique flavors of the coffee beans. There’s also gluten-free cookies for the gluten-free crowd. There’s something for everyone at Mud Bay Coffee. Here’s the scoop on the best coffeehouses in Olympia, Washington state.
Places to Visit in Washington State
When you plan your trip to the Pacific Northwest, you may wonder, “Where can I find the most interesting places to visit in Washington state?” Read on to learn about Spokane’s Riverfront Park, Leavenworth’s Bavarian-themed town, Olympia’s national park, and Tacoma’s museums. Once you have decided to visit Washington, you’ll be able to easily find your way around this beautiful state.
Spokane’s Riverfront Park
If you’re interested in discovering natural scenery, you’ll love Spokane’s, Riverfront Park. With over 100 acres of green space, the park has exciting attractions, including dozens of community events. The park is also accessible by car, but the parking lots downtown are expensive. Regardless of how you get to the park, it’s definitely worth the visit.
Downtown Spokane is home to Riverfront Park, which is the crowning jewel of the city. In August 2020, National Geographic will name it one of America’s most beautiful urban parks. You’ll be reminded of city life while you’re exploring this beautiful park. This is also a good place to catch a show. You can spend the day strolling around the park and admiring the views of Spokane Falls.
The park is also home to the Great Northern Clocktower, the only piece of the Havermale Island Depot that still stands. The clocktower was restored as a tribute to the railroad industry, which helped to build Riverfront Park Spokane. If you want to enjoy the scenery, take the time to stop at the Great Northern Clocktower. The park has an array of events and activities to keep you busy, whether you’re looking for a fun night out with friends or a relaxing afternoon with a book.
The ROW Adventure Center offers a fun way to spend a day in Spokane. The Barrister Winery, located in the Davenport Arts District, recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. The brewery also features an art gallery and tasting room. It is the perfect place to unwind after a day at work. There’s something for everyone at Riverfront Park, so you’ll have a memorable day.
Leavenworth’s Bavarian-themed town
You’re missing out if you have never heard of Leavenworth, Washington. This small town on the western slope of the Cascade Mountains has a Bavarian theme, and the architecture and fonts reflect that. You’ll find the town’s logo and business name changed to reflect its theme. But it’s not just locals changing fonts to fit the theme. National companies that want to be associated with Leavenworth change their logo and fonts to reflect this unique character.
The downtown area in Leavenworth is decorated in Bavarian style, and the city has many festivals to celebrate these unique traditions. The Leavenworth Oktoberfest celebration is the most significant outside of Munich, Germany. It’s also one of the US’s top Christmas destinations. The city has a variety of accommodations, including elegant five-star Bavarian-style hotels and riverside lodges. The Howard Johnson by Wyndham Hotel is one of the best downtown Leavenworth hotels.
Oktoberfest is one of the town’s most significant events, but you can take in the Bavarian atmosphere any time of year. The town’s buildings are decorated in Bavarian style, and even Starbucks has changed its logo. Other attractions include the Nutcracker Museum and Giant Suit of Armor. The Spirit of America 9/11 Memorial is located just 10 miles away.
Olympia’s national park
In the Olympic region, Olympic National Park was created in the mid-1850s following a series of treaties between American colonialists and native Indians. The park’s creation spurred controversy about the value of these treaties. The park has a variety of sights to offer tourists, from a pristine lake to a stunning mountain range. It is worth visiting, especially if you enjoy hiking or camping.
For climbing enthusiasts, Olympic National Park has a variety of rock types, from soft basalt to pillow lava. Because of the diversity of terrain, climbing in Olympic Park requires thorough route planning and careful attention to weather conditions. If you plan to go alone, make sure to bring a friend or family member who is experienced. If you haven’t climbed there before, it is highly recommended that you consult a local guide to ensure a safe climb.
A trip to Olympic National Park is a must if you love nature. The park’s glaciers, waterfalls, and epic coastline will reward you with incredible scenery. Hikers will find plenty of trails to follow in this park, including the Olympic Peninsula Loop Drive. The drive through the peninsula will reward you with breathtaking scenery as you take in natural beauty. If you’re not interested in hiking or camping, a day in the park is enough to explore the area.
Tacoma’s museums
If you are a parent looking for quality family time in the Pacific Northwest, Tacoma’s museums may be the perfect spot. The Children’s Museum of Tacoma was founded in the 1980s and is dedicated to providing children with a fun space to play. You can choose from many themed areas, rotating exhibits, and hands-on activities. You can also visit the Shanaman Sports Museum, which explores the city’s sporting history. The Children’s Museum also hosts holiday-related performances and stand-up comedy shows.
The Tacoma Art Museum, one of the places to visit in Washington state, is open Tuesday through Sunday and extends its hours on the third Thursday of the month. The museum features a sleek building with an impressive collection. There are several galleries and the Haub Family Collection of Western American Art is the closest to the city center. The collection contains nearly 300 pieces, spanning from the late 1700s to the present. There is also a gallery dedicated to Northwest Native American art and beadwork.
The Foss Waterway Seaport Museum is another excellent place to visit in Tacoma. It is located across from Wright Park and has six different floors that feature a variety of exhibits. You can also explore the museum’s extensive collection of nautical artifacts. Wright Park is 27 acres of natural space that acts as an arboretum. There are interpretive signs to help you learn about the history of the city’s trees.
Port Townsend’s historical sites
If you’re looking for a great way to spend a day in the Pacific Northwest, Port Townsend, Washington, has more than one attraction. The city’s downtown is home to several historical sites, including the Jefferson Museum of Art and History. The museum’s exhibits tell the story of early settlers, Native Americans, and maritime activities. The 1892 City Hall building still holds City Council meetings, but the lower levels are home to the Jefferson Museum of Art and History. The jail cells in the basement are an exciting talking point. Across the street, the Jefferson County Courthouse is now a gallery featuring regional artists. The Museum also offers monthly rotating exhibits and historical walking tours.
The city was initially a small fishing village, but the railroad eventually reached the area and began a new era. Port Townsend became a busy seaport and customs gateway for the Pacific Northwest. Today, the town still boasts impressive Victorian buildings and an impressive waterfront commercial district. The town’s former military compounds have been converted into public spaces. Once a fishing town, the town’s maritime past shaped its character and continues to do so today.
While visiting the town, you can also take in the Olympic Discovery Trail, a 130-mile trail that begins in the city and ends along the ocean. This path offers breathtaking views of the Pacific and the Olympic Mountains. During your visit, take your camera and extra memory cards. You can also experience the Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival, a 40-year-old tradition that features workshops, sailing opportunities, and live music.
Olympia’s capital
Olympia, the capital of Washington state, is a coastal town at the southern end of Puget Sound. The city is home to the 1909 Governor’s Mansion and Legislative Building and features a boardwalk and public art. More than 200 bird species visit the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. In addition, Olympia has an active arts community and is a top choice for tourists worldwide.
The city has been the seat of government for centuries, but is not particularly different from many other Pacific Northwest towns. Its early history was largely marked by logging and shellfishing, but in the 20th century, the city shifted its economy towards industry. Its location on deepwater Budd Inlet made it a vital shipping port from the start. Today, the city has a population of more than 52,000, and it’s a desirable place to raise a family or study for a degree or professional career.
In addition to hosting the biannual Arts Walk Celebration, Olympia is also home to vibrant art and culture. For outdoor enthusiasts, Olympia is the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the state’s natural beauty. Visitors can also check out some fun Washington State quizzes. This way, they can test their knowledge of Washington’s capital before taking a trip to the area.
