Washington State is a place of breathtaking contrasts, a vast and diverse landscape that offers an incredible array of experiences for every traveler. If you’re planning a trip and wondering about the unmissable Things To See In Washington, prepare to be captivated. From the vibrant energy of its cities to the serene beauty of its national parks, the rich tapestry of its history, and the distinct flavors of its local cuisine, Washington truly has something for everyone.
This state, which joined the United States in 1889, has evolved into a dynamic hub for technology, nature enthusiasts, food lovers, and those fascinated by culture and history. With so many captivating sights and unique experiences waiting to be discovered, deciding where to start can be the biggest challenge. Let’s dive into some of the most remarkable places and experiences that make Washington State an extraordinary destination.
Discover Washington’s Iconic National Parks
One of the absolute must-sees in Washington State is its trio of magnificent national parks: Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic. Each offers a distinct natural spectacle and provides a unique perspective on the state’s stunning geography. Getting to each park requires a bit of travel, ensuring that the journey itself is often part of the adventure, revealing different facets of Washington’s beauty along the way.
mountainscape at Mt. Rainier NP, one of the best things to do in Washington state
Mount Rainier National Park, dominated by the majestic, glaciated peak of Mount Rainier itself, is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. Around this iconic mountain, you’ll find miles of trails leading through subalpine meadows bursting with wildflowers, tranquil alpine lakes, and stunning waterfalls. It’s a place where the grandeur of nature is always on display, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn.
Mt Rainier in fall, one of the best things to do in Washington state
North Cascades National Park, often called the “American Alps,” is arguably the most underrated of the three, and notably, it’s free to enter. This park is characterized by rugged, glaciated peaks, deep valleys, and a sense of remote wilderness. It’s a paradise for backpackers and those seeking solitude, offering dramatic mountain scenery that rivals landscapes found in other parts of the world.
View from a North Cascades national park itinerary
Discover the Best – Where to Go on Vacation in Florida
Your Ultimate Guide – what to eat in destin florida
Discover Fun Things to Do in LA Today
Olympic National Park stands out due to its incredible ecological diversity. Spanning over a million acres, it encompasses everything from snow-capped mountains and a rugged coastline to temperate rainforests, including the famous Hoh Rainforest – the only one of its kind in the Northern Hemisphere. Exploring Olympic feels like stepping into multiple different worlds within a single park.
Explore the Scenic Washington Coastline
With over 3,000 miles of shoreline, the Washington coast presents a multitude of captivating sights. Beyond the endless stretches of sand, you’ll find charming beach towns, dramatic viewpoints, and unique coastal features. Many of the most famous beaches, such as Kalaloch and Ruby Beach, are located within the boundaries of Olympic National Park, showcasing stunning sea stacks and driftwood-strewn shores.
woman walking on the beach on the Washington coast
For a classic beach town experience, Seabrook offers a planned community designed for pedestrian exploration, while Long Beach boasts miles of drivable sand and a lively atmosphere. These coastal areas aren’t just about views; they connect visitors to the maritime culture and the raw power of the Pacific Ocean, offering a different pace of life compared to the state’s interior.
Discover Washington’s Hiking Trails
While hiking is an activity, the primary goal for many is to see the incredible landscapes Washington has to offer. The state is renowned for its well-maintained trail system, providing access to a variety of stunning sceneries, from mountain vistas to lush forests and coastal paths. Even near bustling urban centers like Seattle, numerous trails offer rewarding views with relatively little effort, perfect for a quick escape into nature.
woman enjoying the view at the summit of Colchuck lake, one of the best larch hikes
For serious hikers seeking an epic visual journey, obtaining a permit for The Enchantments is a pursuit worth undertaking. Located in the Alpine Lake Wilderness of the Cascade Mountains, this trek traverses through granite peaks, alpine lakes, and stunning meadows. The views here are truly unparalleled in the Pacific Northwest, a sight that requires effort but rewards exponentially.
Witness the Beauty of the Columbia River Gorge
Stretching for 90 miles along the border between Washington and Oregon, the Columbia River Gorge is a geological wonder and a must-see destination. This dramatic canyon is carved by the Columbia River, featuring towering cliffs, impressive spires, and forested ridges set against the backdrop of the Cascade Mountain Range. It’s a place where history and nature converge, shaped by ancient floods and volcanic activity.
waterfall you
The Gorge is not only visually striking but also an American Viticultural Area (AVA), making it a region known for its wineries. Furthermore, it boasts one of the highest concentrations of waterfalls in North America. While many iconic falls are on the Oregon side, the Washington side offers unique trails and perspectives, making it a fantastic place to explore the beauty of falling water and the power of the river.
Hunt for Golden Larches in the Fall
A truly unique sight, alpine larches transform parts of Washington’s mountains into a golden paradise each fall. These deciduous conifers turn a brilliant yellow-gold before shedding their needles, a spectacle that occurs for only a few weeks from late September through October. This phenomenon is relatively rare globally, making it one of the special Things To See In Washington.
woman walking on a trail surrounded by larches
Finding these golden trees requires knowing where to look, as they thrive in specific high-elevation environments. Seeking out larch hikes, like those around Lake Ingalls or in the North Cascades, offers not just a challenging hike but a visual feast unlike any other, set against the backdrop of the rugged mountain terrain.
Experience Winter Wonderlands
Come winter, Washington transforms into a snowy playground, offering numerous opportunities to experience and see stunning snow-covered landscapes. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails are well-maintained across the state, providing access to serene winter scenes. Destinations like Lake Wenatchee State Park near Leavenworth or the White Pass Nordic Center offer groomed trails for a classic winter outing.
woman cross-country skiing on a ridge overlooking Lake Chelan in winter
For those seeking the thrill of downhill sports, Washington boasts over 20 ski resorts, each with different terrains and atmospheres. From the accessible slopes of Snoqualmie Pass near Seattle to the higher elevations and better conditions at Stevens Pass, or the long season and smaller crowds at Mt. Baker, there are slopes to suit every level. Seeing the mountain peaks blanketed in snow while gliding down the slopes is an unforgettable experience.
snowboarder looking out at mountains
Visit the Enchanting San Juan Islands
The Puget Sound is dotted with numerous islands, but the San Juan Islands archipelago stands out as a major draw, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, charming towns, and marine life viewing opportunities. This cluster includes three main islands: Lopez, Orcas, and San Juan Island, each with its own character and sights.
woman looking out at Samish Sea on Orcas Island, one of the best things to do in Washington state
Getting between the islands is easy and scenic via the Washington State Ferry system, and a clever fare structure (you typically only pay westbound) encourages island hopping. San Juan Island is home to the lively town of Friday Harbor and opportunities for whale watching. Orcas Island is known for its rugged beauty and Moran State Park. Lopez Island offers a more laid-back, rural vibe. Experiencing the ferry ride itself, with views of the sound and surrounding islands, is part of the charm.
Explore Other Charming Washington Islands
Beyond the famous San Juans, Washington’s coast and Puget Sound are home to many other islands, each offering distinct Things To See In Washington. These islands provide easy escapes from the mainland, often just a scenic ferry ride away from Seattle or other coastal towns.
The Victoria, BC legislative building
Whidbey Island is a favorite for its diverse offerings, including Deception Pass State Park with its dramatic bridge, charming towns like Coupeville and Langley, wineries, and hiking trails. Vashon Island, just a short ferry ride from Seattle, offers a laid-back atmosphere, unique shops, and local eateries. Bainbridge Island is another popular day trip destination, known for its walkable Winslow town center with boutiques, restaurants, and wineries, all easily accessible after a short ferry ride across the sound. These islands offer a glimpse into coastal living and stunning Puget Sound views.
woman walking on beach in front of Pt Robinson Lighthouse on Vashon Island, one of the best things to do in Washington state
Witness the Skagit Tulip Festival
Each April, the Skagit Valley becomes a riot of color during the annual Skagit Tulip Festival. Farmers in the valley open their fields to the public, showcasing vast stretches of blooming tulips. While the exact location of the most stunning fields shifts annually as crops are rotated, the festival headquarters remains a central point for information and activities.
woman in tulip fields at Seattle Tulip Festival
Visiting during peak bloom is key to experiencing the full visual impact of this event. Beyond the flower fields, the Skagit Valley area offers charming towns, farm stands, and local restaurants, making it a delightful spring destination centered around this vibrant floral spectacle. It’s a prime example of agricultural beauty as one of the unique Things To See In Washington.
Spend a Day Exploring Washington’s Farms
As a significant agricultural state, Washington has a rich farming heritage, and many farms welcome visitors to experience rural life and harvest seasonal produce. Spending a day at the farms allows you to see where your food comes from and enjoy the simplicity and beauty of the countryside.
woman picking a pumpkin at a path, one of the best Halloween fun in Seattle
Skagit Valley, for instance, boasts numerous farmer’s markets and u-pick farms. Later in the summer and into the fall, visiting sunflower fields or pumpkin patches becomes a popular activity, offering picturesque scenes and family-friendly fun. These farm visits connect visitors to the land and the people who cultivate it, adding a cultural layer to the visual experience.
Indulge in Washington’s Wine Country
Washington is the second-largest wine-producing state in the US, trailing only California, and its diverse climate supports several distinct and visit-worthy wine regions. Exploring Washington’s wine country means not just tasting wine but also seeing the vineyards, the production facilities, and the tasting rooms, often set against beautiful backdrops.
tasting room in Walla Walla, one of the best things to do in Washington state
Near Seattle, Woodinville is a major hub with over 100 wineries and tasting rooms, offering a convenient wine experience. Further east, regions like Yakima Valley, the Columbia Gorge AVA (on the WA side), and Walla Walla offer immersive wine-focused travel experiences. Walla Walla, known for its concentration of wineries, provides a blend of charming town life and vineyard tours. Lake Chelan offers wineries with stunning lake and mountain views, providing a more resort-town setting for wine exploration. Each region provides a different atmosphere to enjoy the state’s acclaimed wines.
Explore Washington’s Capital City: Olympia
Just an hour’s drive south of Seattle, Olympia serves as the state capital and offers a blend of historical sights, cultural attractions, and natural beauty, making it a great destination for a day trip. A key sight is the State Capitol Building itself, a prominent landmark representing Washington’s government.
woman laughing while walking along railway painted rainbow colors
Beyond the political center, Olympia boasts the year-round Olympia Farmers Market, a vibrant place to see local produce and crafts. The 222 Market complex houses local eateries like Chelsea’s Farms, offering fresh, local seafood. Seasonal attractions like the Evergreen Lavender Valley Farm in July provide a fragrant and visually appealing experience. Exploring Olympia gives visitors insight into the state’s civic life and local culture.
Spend a Day Discovering Tacoma’s Gems
Tacoma, located south of Seattle, has undergone a significant revitalization, transforming into a city with noteworthy museums, vibrant cultural venues, and excellent dining options. It’s a place where industrial history meets artistic innovation, offering unique Things To See In Washington.
woman sitting on bench by lake
A highlight is the Museum of Glass, featuring impressive glass art, including works by the world-renowned Tacoma-born artist Dale Chihuly. Visitors can also watch live glassblowing demonstrations. Point Defiance Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, offers gardens, a zoo, and beautiful views of Puget Sound, providing ample space for leisurely exploration and scenic views within the city limits.
Attend Washington’s State Fairs and Festivals
Washington hosts a variety of fairs and festivals throughout the year, offering unique cultural experiences and vibrant community gatherings that are fantastic Things To See In Washington. These events showcase everything from agricultural heritage to music, art, and unique local traditions.
swings at the Washington State Fair, one of the most fun summer activities
The Washington State Fair in Puyallup is a major event attracting visitors with rides, exhibits, food, and entertainment. Bumbershoot in Seattle is a prominent music and arts festival featuring national and international performers. For a different kind of spectacle, several towns like Winthrop, Walla Walla, and Prosser host hot air balloon festivals, filling the sky with colorful balloons—a truly picturesque sight. Checking a local events calendar can reveal numerous smaller festivals celebrating everything from berries to maritime history.
Explore Washington’s Thriving Brewery Scene
The Pacific Northwest is widely credited as the birthplace of the modern craft beer movement, and Washington State proudly continues this legacy with over 400 microbreweries. Exploring the brewery scene is a great way to experience local culture and taste regional flavors.
6 beers in a flight from one of the best Seattle breweries
While the focus is on the tasting experience, visiting the taprooms and breweries themselves offers insight into the local craft and community. Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood is particularly known for its concentration of breweries, making a “brewery crawl” a popular activity. Across the state, from small towns to larger cities, finding local breweries is a way to connect with the regional identity through its diverse beer offerings.
Discover Seattle and Its Famous Attractions
Seattle, the state’s largest city, is a dynamic hub offering a wealth of Things To See In Washington. While iconic landmarks like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle are essential stops, the city offers much more beneath the surface, from diverse neighborhoods to world-class museums and a thriving culinary scene.
Facebook image of the Pike Place Market sign
Pike Place Market is a sensory experience, a historic public market where you can see fishmongers throwing salmon, browse local crafts, and sample fresh produce. The Space Needle offers panoramic views of the city, Puget Sound, and the surrounding mountains. Seattle’s museum scene includes the Seattle Art Museum, the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), and the Wing Luke Museum, dedicated to Asian-Pacific American history and culture. The city is also home to beautiful parks and gardens, such as the serene Seattle Japanese Garden and the expansive Washington Park Arboretum, providing green escapes within the urban environment. Seattle’s distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character, offer endless opportunities for exploration.
Catch the Christmas Lights in Leavenworth
For a truly magical and unique sight, visiting Leavenworth during the Christmas season is a must. This charming town is designed with a Bavarian theme, complete with alpine architecture, and it goes all out with holiday decorations. The main attraction is the stunning display of Christmas lights that illuminates the entire village, creating a storybook atmosphere.
aerial view of downtown Leavenworth Christmas lights at night
Leavenworth is easily walkable, allowing visitors to stroll through the festive streets, enjoy Bavarian-themed restaurants, browse unique shops, and visit local wine tasting rooms. While beautiful year-round, especially in the fall with its surrounding hiking trails, the winter transformation into a Christmas town is perhaps the most iconic sight, drawing visitors from across the region to experience its festive spirit and winter activities.
Explore the Historic Pioneer Town of Winthrop
Located in Eastern Washington, Winthrop offers a step back in time with its charming, Western-themed pioneer town facade. This unique architectural style makes it a fascinating place to see and explore, providing a glimpse into the region’s past.
historic building in downtown Winthrop WA
The town center is pedestrian-friendly, lined with buildings designed to evoke the Old West. Beyond the visual theme, Winthrop is a gateway to outdoor adventure, particularly famous for having the largest groomed cross-country ski trail system in North America, making it a major draw in winter. The combination of its distinctive visual theme and access to nature makes Winthrop a memorable stop.
Enjoy the Beer and Bike Scene in Bellingham
Bellingham, a vibrant college town located near the Canadian border, offers a lively atmosphere and plenty of sights and experiences, particularly for fans of craft beer and outdoor activities. The city itself has a youthful energy and scenic location on Bellingham Bay.
downtown Bellingham
Bellingham is home to numerous craft breweries, making brewery hopping a popular pastime. Coupled with an extensive network of bike-friendly trails, it’s easy to combine outdoor activity with sampling local brews. Renting an e-bike and exploring trails that offer views of the bay and surrounding forests, punctuated by stops at places like Menace Brewing or Kulshan Brewing, is a quintessential Bellingham experience focused on seeing the area and experiencing its local culture.
Experience Washington’s Coastal Bounty
Washington’s extensive coastline and inland waterways are rich in seafood, and experiencing the local seafood culture is a delicious and culturally relevant thing to do. While it’s an activity, it also involves seeing the places where seafood is harvested and prepared, connecting you to the state’s maritime heritage.
person holding fresh oysters at an oyster farm in Washington
Areas like the Hood Canal and Willapa Bay are known for oyster and clam harvesting, especially in the fall and winter. Crabbing is popular year-round in Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands, and fishing opportunities abound throughout the state, from salmon fishing in the sound to trout in rivers. Visiting shellfish beaches or coastal towns where fresh catches are sold and served provides insight into this important aspect of Washington’s identity and economy.
Get On the Water for Unique Views
With its abundance of lakes, Puget Sound, and coastal waters, getting on the water is an excellent way to see Washington from a different perspective. Whether you prefer active paddling or leisurely cruising, there are options for everyone.
woman enjoying a drink and views on an Argosy Cruise, one of the best things to do in Washington state
In Seattle, kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Union offers close-up views of the city skyline and houseboat communities. For groups, renting electric boats or even unique hot tub boats provides a fun way to cruise the lake. Ferry rides across Puget Sound, like the popular route to Bainbridge Island, offer scenic views of the water, islands, and mountains. Boat tours, such as those offered by Argosy Cruises in Seattle, provide narrated experiences of the waterfront and Elliott Bay, highlighting key landmarks and history from a marine perspective.
Go Waterfall Chasing
Washington boasts the most waterfalls of any state in the continental US, making it a prime destination for chasing cascades. Seeing these natural water features, from towering drops to gentle tumbles, is a rewarding pursuit for nature lovers.
Snoqualmie Falls
The North Cascades National Park is home to Colonial Creek Falls, the tallest waterfall in any US National Park. While the Columbia River Gorge has a high concentration of falls, the Washington side features notable ones like Lower Falls Creek Trail. Snoqualmie Falls, easily accessible and famous for its appearance in the TV show Twin Peaks, is another must-see waterfall, with viewing platforms and the historic Salish Lodge & Spa perched nearby.
Experience Washington’s Wild Side Through Camping
Camping is a fundamental way to immerse yourself in Washington’s natural beauty and wake up surrounded by incredible sights. The state offers diverse camping experiences, from primitive backcountry sites to developed campgrounds with amenities. It’s about seeing the stars, the forests, the mountains, and the coast up close.
woman sitting on rock at Deception Pass Bridge, one of the best things to do in Skagit County, Washington
National Parks like North Cascades offer remote backcountry options like Hozomeen, requiring self-sufficiency. Washington’s State Parks, such as Lake Wenatchee and Deception Pass, provide more accessible family-friendly campgrounds with facilities. Camping allows for sustained exposure to Washington’s diverse ecosystems, from high alpine areas to coastal forests, providing an intimate way to experience the state’s landscapes day and night.
Explore the Abundance of Washington State Parks
Beyond the National Parks, Washington is home to over 140 State Parks, offering countless opportunities to see and explore varied environments. These parks encompass over 400 miles of trails and protect diverse landscapes across the state, from rugged coastlines to eastern plains.
woman overlooking water at beach with views of San Juan Islands
Coastal state parks often include former military forts that have been converted for public use, blending history with natural beauty. Fort Ebey State Park on Whidbey Island and Fort Worden Historical State Park in Port Townsend offer glimpses into the past alongside scenic beaches and forests. Larrabee State Park in the northwest provides stunning views of the Puget Sound and San Juan Islands, while Field Springs State Park in the southeast showcases a completely different, drier landscape, highlighting the state’s geographical breadth.
Check Out Washington’s Charming Small Towns
Nestled between the larger cities are many small towns across Washington State, each with its own character, history, and charm. Exploring these towns is a fantastic way to see the local culture, find unique shops, and enjoy regional food outside the urban centers.
Poulsbo, WA shops, one of the best things to do in Poulsbo
Towns like Bow and Edison in the Skagit Valley are known for their vibrant local art scenes and excellent food establishments. Roslyn, near Eastern Washington, offers a historic feel and proximity to resorts like Suncadia. Poulsbo embraces its Scandinavian heritage with a charming “Little Norway” themed downtown. Port Townsend boasts a historic Victorian waterfront. These small towns offer a more intimate look at Washington life and are filled with delightful sights and experiences.
Visit the Often-Forgotten Spokane
While much attention is given to Western Washington, the city of Spokane in the eastern part of the state is a significant cultural and historical center with plenty of Things To See In Washington. Situated near the Idaho border, it offers a different perspective on the state’s geography and culture.
woman walking over bridge in Manito Park in Spokane, WA, one of the best things to do in Washington state
Spokane’s historic downtown is large and features a variety of architecture, restaurants, and hotels. The city is centered around the Spokane River, which flows right through downtown, creating the impressive Spokane Falls at Huntington Park. Manito Park is another highlight, featuring diverse garden styles including a beautiful Japanese Garden. Exploring Spokane reveals a vibrant city with its own distinct identity, rich in history and surrounded by natural beauty.
Take a Day Trip to Nearby Major Cities
Living in or visiting Seattle provides the fantastic opportunity to easily explore other major metropolitan areas nearby. Taking a scenic drive or bus trip can lead you to experience the sights and sounds of Portland, Oregon, or even cross the border into Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Vancouver waterfront, one of the best things to do in Vancouver BC
Portland, about a three-hour drive south, is known for its vibrant food scene, craft coffee culture, and quirky neighborhoods filled with unique shops and attractions. Vancouver, BC, to the north, offers stunning waterfront views, diverse culinary experiences, and iconic landmarks like Stanley Park. While not strictly Things To See In Washington, these nearby cities are easily accessible day trip options that showcase the broader Pacific Northwest and Western Canada region’s urban attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things To See In Washington
Exploring Washington State can bring up a lot of questions. Here are some common ones to help you plan your trip.
When is the best time to visit Washington State?
The best time depends on what you want to see and do. Summer (July-September) offers the warmest, driest weather, ideal for hiking, camping, and enjoying the coast and islands. Fall (October) is famous for larch viewing and fall foliage. Spring (April-May) brings the Skagit Tulip Festival and blooming landscapes. Winter (December-March) is perfect for snow sports in the mountains and experiencing festive towns like Leavenworth. Seattle and other cities are year-round destinations.
What are the absolute must-see natural attractions?
The three National Parks (Mount Rainier, Olympic, North Cascades) are top of the list. Snoqualmie Falls is easily accessible and visually stunning. Deception Pass Bridge offers dramatic coastal views.
Are there historical sites to see in Washington?
Yes, there are numerous historical sites. Fort Worden State Park in Port Townsend is a preserved historical military fort. Spokane has a rich history tied to westward expansion and mining. Seattle’s Pioneer Square is the city’s historic heart. Many small towns also preserve their pioneer or industrial history.
How can I experience Washington’s food culture?
Visit Pike Place Market in Seattle for a taste of fresh seafood and local produce. Explore the wine regions (Woodinville, Walla Walla) for tastings and vineyard tours. Seek out local breweries across the state. Sample fresh oysters and clams from the coast. Seattle, Tacoma, and many small towns have vibrant restaurant scenes showcasing regional ingredients.
Is Washington State easy to get around?
Getting around Washington often requires a car, especially to reach national parks, trailheads, and many small towns. Public transport is strong within Seattle. The ferry system is essential for visiting islands in Puget Sound. For longer distances, driving is generally the most flexible option, though Amtrak train service runs along the west side.
More Washington Exploration Awaits
These highlights are just a glimpse into the wealth of Things To See In Washington. The state’s diverse landscapes, rich history, dynamic culture, and incredible culinary scene offer endless possibilities for exploration. From the peaks of the Cascades to the depths of the Pacific, Washington is a state that rewards curiosity and promises unforgettable experiences around every corner.