Top Washington State Day Trips
1. San Juan Island- Paradise is Only a Day Trip Away
Well this one might be a given considering you’ve stopped by to read this blog for a reason! But the San Juan Islands make a fantastic getaway! From kayaking around Roche Harbor and picnicking on Henry or Posey Island in the morning, to taking an exciting sunset Wildlife and Whale Watch in the evening, and then having a delicious dinner in one of the many restaurants in Friday Harbor, San Juan Island has more than enough to fill a day, weekend, or week long trip to our Island!
Looking to book your excursions!? Visit SanJuanSafaris.com and SanJuanIslandOutfitters.com to book your adventure!
2. Seattle- One of the Most Celebrated Cities in the Nation
Seattle may be one of the more well known must sees while in Washington- but that doesn’t mean it’s any less exciting! In fact Seattle has so much to do, it is impossible to list all the possibilities here! Start the morning off with a coffee at one of Seattle’s many designer coffee shops and cafes. Then head on over to Pike Place Market where you can stroll the numerous stands in search of gorgeous flowers, local goods, farm fresh fruits and veggies, and yes- the occasional flying fish! Head down to the waterfront where you can ride the Seattle Ferris Wheel and enjoy a nice waterfront lunch at one of the many fish and chips & clam chowder restaurants.
In the late afternoon perhaps venture to Fremont St. where you can go meet and take a picture with the infamous Fremont Bridge Troll, or possibly venture over to the Space Needle and explore the city from above. If you are really feeling fancy splurge on a nice dinner atop the space needle, or if you’re lucky head to a Seahawks, Sounders, or Mariners game depending on the time of year. At the end of your day head on over to one of the numerous dessert options (May I recommend gourmet ice cream from Molly Moon’s? Earl Grey and Honey Lavender are my favorites!) and venture up to Kerry Park (a local’s favorite hidden spot!) to find yourself with a gorgeous view overlooking the Seattle skyline.
The amazing view of Seattle skyline from Kerry Park3. Tacoma- Small Town Charm, Big City Fun
I can not say enough amazing things about Tacoma! Often referred to as the younger sibling of the more well known, bigger metropolitan Seattle, this Seattle suburb deserves it’s own day, if not multi day trip! Tacoma is the perfect mix of small town charm, big city amenities and waterfront aesthetic.
With a population of well over 200,000, Tacoma is the third biggest city in Washington, though you wouldn’t know it with the prominence of independent shops, and the city wide effort to shop local and support businesses in their home town. From the Spring and Summer farmers markets to the booming Ruston waterfront, and downtown area there is something here for everyone!
If you only have one day to spend checking out Tacoma you better be prepared to jam pack it all in! Start your long day off well fueled by grabbing breakfast at one of the numerous (and all fantastic breakfast and brunch places on 6th Ave. or Proctor- some favorites include Shakabrah, Original Pancake House and Legendary Doughnuts. If you over indulged with too many pancakes, take a stroll around the award winning, gorgeous, and truly one of a kind University of Puget Sound (Go Loggers!) Afterwards head over for a hike at Point Defiance- one of the nations largest metropolitan parks, second only to New York’s Central Park. There are numerous options ranging from forest lined trails, to waterfront boardwalks. Don’t feel like getting out of your car? Take the 5 Mile Loop that follows the perimeter of this peninsula and offers gorgeous views of Gig Harbor, Vashon Island, Tacoma Narrows Bridge and the Waterfront.
In the evening stroll the Ruston waterfront and enjoy one of the many waterfront dining options and a plush new movie theater, or head over to downtown where you can catch a show, play or theater production at one of the many local theaters on Broadway, or perhaps head over to Steel Creel- a local country bar and restaurant- and take a line dance lesson then dance the night away, or maybe even head over to Tacoma Dome and catch a popular concert! You will never find a lack of things to do in Tacoma!
View of Mt. Rainier from Point Defiance Park in Tacoma University of Puget Sound
4. Olympia- WA’s Capital
Washington’s Capital does not disappoint! One of the things I love about Olympia is the diverseness of this city! Spend your morning morning walking around Pumpkin Patches, Apple Orchards, Farms, Cider Mills, etc. There are many family owned and ran farms and orchards that offer tours, petting zoos/animal interaction, and farm to table goods for purchase.
Then in the afternoon head over and walk around the state’s capital. These buildings are truly awe inspiring- and the photo opportunities are priceless! In the evening downtown Olympia offers numerous restaurants and malls that offer a wide variety of dining and entertainment options.
The Washington State Capital in Olympia5. Mount Rainier- Simply Paradise!
Ask any Washingtonian and they’ll all tell you how iconic Mount Rainier is within the state. You’ll often hear locals saying “Mountain’s Out!” This loving statement stems from the fact that on sunny clear days, you’ll find Mount Rainier stoically standing tall in the distance.
If you have a day, you must spend it driving up to Mount Rainer! Even if you aren’t able to completely get to the top there are plenty of nice shorter hikes on the way up. Don’t miss the waterfalls and river photo ops during the drive up! If you do have the chance to ascend the mountain and make it to Paradise (yes, it really is called Paradise, and no it is not an exaggeration!) You’ll find there to be the perfect mix of challenging full day hikes, as well as opportunities for simple strolls to gorgeous picture perfect views of flower covered prairies and tree lined trails.
At the end of your day, put your feet up in the lodge and enjoy a nice meal, or descend the mountain for even more restaurants at the base- Copper Creek is a local favorite. You’ll be happy you made time to adventure around this Washington Icon.
6. Olympic Peninsula- World Renowned Beaches and Hiking!
The Olympic Peninsula is a must see if you have the time to venture over to the coast! While you may want to reserve more than just a single day for this adventure, I still must add it to this list because it really is that gorgeous!
Spend the day hiking the Hoh Rainforest, there are so many trails to choose from, and none that will be a bad choice! In the summer you may see people enjoying the riverfront water access, sunning themselves in the openings, or spending their days hiking around. There is no off season here though- as many of the trails stay open year around- the famous Hall of Mosses is argued to be even prettier in the rain!
Perhaps venture over to the coast for dinner, or head east to Port Angeles, Sequim, or Port Townsend! If you’re really feeling adventurous check out Forks, WA. You’ll find more than just Vampires and Werewolves; you’ll find a cozy town who has actively embraced their roll in pop culture while still remaining consistent with their locals centered charm.
One of the many beautiful hikes on the Olympic Coast Beach on the Olympic Coast7. Tulips- Mt. Vernon- A Spring Classic!
One of the most iconic seasonal events in Washington is the Tulip Festival in Mt. Vernon. The tulip festival takes place every April & May. Thousands flock to these gorgeous blooming fields to see first hand the mesmerizing and vibrant flowers.
The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most beautiful and scenic displays of vibrant color. It is one of the “destination events” in the Pacific Northwest and is a perfect way to showcase Skagit Valley agriculture. It takes place from April 1st through April 30 and is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day.
Each spring, hundreds of thousands of visitors come from all throughout the United States and around the world to enjoy the celebration of spring and view the blooms of millions of tulips. This festival is designed as a driving tour with the fields of tulips scattered throughout the valley. The tulip fields are actually the crops of two different tulip growers: RoozenGaarde/Washington Bulb Co., Inc and Tulip Town. Both companies offer displays of tulips in special gardens for visitors to view and photograph.
The Tulip Festival first began 1987 and is run by the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce. It has grown from a 3 day event to a 30 day event complete with art shows, concerts, tours of local cheese and shellfish businesses, and the Kiwanis Salmon Barbecue and Mount Vernon Street Fair. There are also 3 and 5K runs and distance bike rides amidst the tulip fields.
These beautiful fields of tulips are scattered throughout the Skagit Valley and the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce invites you to enjoy taking in one or more of the many events and activities that happen only during the month of April at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival! If you are lucky enough to be around this time of year, stopping by to check out these fields is a must!
8. The Gorge- An Entertaining Time Awaits!
If you are around in the summer, The Gorge is a Washingtonian favorite for concerts and music festivals. Located in Eastern Washington, The Gorge is situated on Columbia river. Each summer thousands of people come to see performances at this performance venue in Grant County, many also camp out during multi-day events such as Watershed and Sasquatch music festivals.
The Gorge is known for its fantastic river front views, and fun atmosphere, and large 27,500 person venue accommodations. It makes a staple for any summer road trip!
9. Leavenworth- A Bavarian Getaway is just hours away!
Any season is a good season to visit Leavenworth! There are numerous places to eat, shop and explore in this Bavarian style village located in the Cascade Mountains.
Tours, shops and different attractions run daily, serving a wide variety of interests. Eat at King Ludwigs for lunch, then swing by the Gingerbread Factory to explore and treat yourself to a cookie. Finish your day off with a tour of the historic Nutcracker Museum!
10. Wenatchee- Antique Stores and Boutique Shopping Opportunities
Located in Chelan County, Wenatchee is home to a population of 30,000 in north- central Washington. Located about 3 hours from Seattle, this town has many rustic antique shops, and is the home to a downtown that boasts many boutique style clothing stores and restaurants.
11. The Methow Valley- The Place for Outdoor Adventures
Visit Winthrop- an Old-West themed town located on the East side of the Cascades. This small town boasts some of the best cross country or Nordic skiing with over 120 miles of trails in the winter, and in the spring and summer enjoy fantastic hiking opportunities and climbing opportunities. Check out Blue Star Coffee Roasters in Twisp and grab a nice cup of coffee and head over to the Mazama store- complete with a café and bakery to treat yourself after a full day adventuring!
And these are only 11 amazing options, I could have continued for pages! Whatever you are looking for- Washington has it!