Seattle is famous for landmarks like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, drawing countless visitors. While the city offers plenty to explore, venturing beyond its borders reveals the stunning diversity of the surrounding region. Taking a day trip from Seattle provides a glimpse into the natural beauty and unique culture that defines Washington state. Having lived in the Seattle area for over 25 years, I’ve had the chance to explore countless destinations, constantly discovering new favorites. Friends frequently ask for recommendations, and it’s always a challenge to pick just one!
My weekends are often spent seeking out hidden gems and well-loved spots across Washington, adding dozens of Seattle day trips to my extensive list. From challenging hikes in national parks to wandering through charming small towns, I’ve steadily checked off experiences from my personal Washington State bucket list. It was tough narrowing it down, but these 20 destinations represent some of the best day trips from Seattle based on years of exploration and genuine enjoyment. Whether you call Seattle home or are just visiting, these ideas are perfect additions to your travel plans, offering incredible adventures just a short drive away. Let’s dive into these unforgettable journeys!
Top Destinations for Day Trips From Seattle
Exploring the areas outside of Seattle opens up a world of diverse landscapes and activities. This list features some of the absolute best day trips Washington State has to offer, curated from my personal experiences visiting each one. Whether you crave mountain vistas, island serenity, or unique small-town charm, you’ll find a perfect escape from the city bustle right here.
1. Mount Rainier National Park
Our first essential stop for day trips from Seattle is Mount Rainier, the towering icon of the Pacific Northwest. Standing as the highest peak in Washington State and the Cascade Range, this mountain is instantly recognizable. You’ll see its image everywhere, from local souvenirs to license plates, and it’s undeniably the most popular national park in the state.
Majestic Mount Rainier volcano on a clear day, a popular day trip from Seattle
I personally visit Mount Rainier half a dozen times each summer to explore new hiking trails. There’s something special about getting up before dawn and heading to the park as the sun begins to light up the sky. Even if you’re not a hiker, there are stunning roadside viewpoints like Christine Falls, Narada Falls, and the famous Reflection Lakes, offering incredible scenery without leaving your car.
People flock to Mount Rainier for its numerous hikes, the chance to discover beautiful waterfalls, and the possibility of spotting local wildlife. The Skyline Loop hike leads to Panorama Point, providing one of the park’s most breathtaking views across meadows, forests, and towards other volcanoes like Mount St. Helens and Mount Adams.
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Hikers enjoying a trail with wildflowers and view of Mount Rainier National Park
An insider tip: If you plan to visit on a summer weekend, arrive very early to beat the crowds. The park recently implemented a timed-entry reservation system, which should help manage traffic flow. While a day trip is certainly possible and rewarding, Mount Rainier offers enough to easily justify a weekend getaway from Seattle if you have more time for hiking.
The fall colors here are spectacular, especially on trails like Skyline Trail and Naches Peak Loop. If you prefer not to drive, the Mt. Rainier Railroad offers a unique train journey with scenic views and historical insights. For a guided experience, several tours from Seattle include transportation, sometimes even breakfast or lunch, providing a hassle-free way to explore this natural wonder.
2. Whidbey Island
If you’re looking to escape the urban hustle and bustle of Seattle, a day trip to Whidbey Island is a fantastic choice. Located a short drive north of the city, this island offers a unique day trip experience accessible by ferry. I find myself drawn back to Whidbey in every season, each offering its own distinct charm.
Colorful blooming rhododendrons at Meerkerk Gardens on Whidbey Island
Spring is arguably my favorite time to visit, before the peak summer tourist season. The vibrant colors of Meerkerk Gardens are in full bloom, creating a stunning spectacle. I recently took my kids here, and they had a wonderful time exploring the trails and participating in the scavenger hunt.
Coupeville is another personal highlight, with its charming waterfront and rich history. I always make a stop at Toby’s Tavern for classic fish and chips and a local beer, grab ice cream at Kapaws Iskreme in the warmer months, and enjoy a stroll on the pier.
Historic gun battery structure at Fort Casey State Park overlooking the water
Don’t miss the state parks on the island, particularly Fort Ebey and Fort Casey, located west of Coupeville. These parks offer scenic trails, historic bunkers to explore, and lighthouses with beautiful water views. I make it a point to visit one of these forts nearly every time I’m on the island.
Whidbey Island is also great for browsing the unique boutiques, cozy cafes, and art galleries in its coastal towns like Oak Harbor, Coupeville, and Langley. It truly is one of the best and most diverse day trips from Seattle, offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and local culture.
3. Olympic National Park
While it requires a slightly longer drive of about two and a half hours, Olympic National Park is an undeniably beautiful destination that makes for an incredible, albeit ambitious, day trip from Seattle. Situated on the Olympic Peninsula, this park boasts an astonishing variety of ecosystems, from rugged mountains and wild coastlines to temperate rainforests.
Mossy trees and lush forest trail in Olympic National Park, Washington
If you’re attempting to see Olympic National Park in just one day, focus on a few key areas. Popular stops include Hurricane Ridge for panoramic mountain views (and potentially hiking or snowshoeing depending on the season), Lake Crescent with its stunning clear water and surrounding trails, and Sol Duc Falls, one of my favorite waterfalls in the park.
Truthfully, there is so much to see and do within Olympic National Park that it ideally warrants a multi-day visit. However, I understand that time constraints can be an issue, and I’ve successfully done a day trip myself several times. My main recommendation is to leave Seattle as early as possible to maximize your time exploring the park.
Panoramic view of mountains and valleys from Mount Ellinor trail in Olympic National Park
Keep in mind that during the winter months, daylight hours are significantly shorter, so plan to finish any outdoor activities by late afternoon. The park offers an extensive network of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls through the rainforest to challenging summit climbs, catering to all levels of hikers.
Exploring the Olympic Peninsula is a highlight for many visitors to Washington State, and even a single day provides a memorable experience of its unique landscapes. If you’re considering a longer trip, pairing a visit here with a Seattle itinerary or a full Olympic Peninsula road trip is highly recommended.
4. Bainbridge Island
For a quick and effortless day trip from Seattle, heading to Bainbridge Island is an excellent option. The journey itself is part of the charm, involving a scenic ferry ride across Puget Sound. When I first moved to Seattle, my family and I would frequently take this ferry just for a leisurely day out. The ferry ride is often cited as one of the best parts of a summer day in Seattle.
Facade of Pegasus Coffee House on Bainbridge Island, a short ferry trip from Seattle
Bainbridge Island offers several hiking opportunities, many of which are located in forests, making them great choices for rainy days near Seattle. If you opt to walk onto the ferry instead of taking a car, the small town of Winslow is right at the ferry terminal, offering shops and restaurants perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
The island is also home to the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, an environmentally conscious museum featuring rotating exhibitions by local contemporary artists. A surprising discovery for me on my first visit was the presence of several wineries. Bainbridge Vineyards is a personal favorite, providing a covered outdoor area where you can enjoy their wines even if the weather isn’t perfect.
Vineyard rows with wine bottles in front on Bainbridge Island
Sometimes, simply taking the round-trip ferry ride without disembarking is a delightful experience, especially on a sunny day. It offers fantastic views of the Seattle skyline and the surrounding water, and you might even spot seals or whales if you’re lucky. The ferry itself is a key part of public transportation in the region and offers one of the best ways to see Seattle from the water.
5. North Cascades National Park
Venture into a landscape of dramatic mountains, dense conifer forests, glacier-capped peaks, and stunningly clear blue lakes – this is North Cascades National Park. In my opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful national parks in the United States and provides a fantastic destination for day trips from Seattle or even a longer road trip.
Stunning turquoise water of Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park
While it’s possible to visit on a day trip, spending more time here truly allows you to soak in the beauty. A fun option is extending your trip into a weekend getaway to the Western-themed town of Winthrop, located at the eastern end of the North Cascades Highway.
Along the North Cascades Highway, there are numerous viewpoints that make for quick, rewarding stops without requiring a hike. Places like Ladder Creek Falls, Gorge Overlook, and Washington Pass Overlook offer incredible vistas and are perfect for capturing stunning photographs.
Autumn colors surrounding Cutthroat Lake with mountains in the background
A mandatory stop on any North Cascades trip is Diablo Lake. Its striking turquoise color is truly mesmerizing and was even more vibrant than I expected the first time I saw it. Located between Ross Lake and Gorge Lake on the Skagit River, its elevated position provides a spectacular perspective. It’s clear why this spot is the most popular viewpoint in the park.
For hiking enthusiasts, North Cascades offers an abundance of trails, from easy strolls to challenging climbs. I’m slowly working my way through the best day hikes here. The park’s proximity to Canada also makes it a popular weekend escape for visitors from Vancouver.
The most magical time to visit, in my opinion, is during the short but spectacular larch season, usually around early October. The needles of the larch trees turn brilliant gold before they fall, creating a stunning display. The Heather-Maple Pass Loop is a fantastic hike to experience this phenomenon.
6. San Juan Island
San Juan Island is one of the farthest destinations on this list of day trips from Seattle, but the journey and the experience are absolutely worth the travel time. There’s a wealth of places to see and activities to enjoy once you arrive on this beautiful island.
Enjoying the view of the harbor on San Juan Island, Washington
Summer is a particularly popular time for this scenic ferry day trip from Seattle. If you’re visiting Seattle for a few days, adding an extra day or two to explore San Juan Island is highly recommended to fully appreciate its charm.
The ferry arrives in Friday Harbor, the island’s main town. This charming port town is filled with cute boutique shops and restaurants offering lovely views of the water. For those who enjoy staying active, San Juan Island also has various hiking trails to explore, providing opportunities for scenic walks.
One of the most iconic activities here is whale watching, particularly from Lime Kiln Point State Park. This is a highlight for both tourists and locals, being one of the rare spots where you might actually see orca whales from the shoreline. It’s truly a magical experience.
The calm waters around San Juan Island also make it an ideal location for kayaking. Taking a guided kayaking tour is a fantastic way to get out on the water and often spot sea life up close. Given the travel time, many visitors choose to turn this into an overnight trip to allow more time for exploration and relaxation.
7. Snoqualmie Falls
If you’re pressed for time but still want an impressive experience outside the city, Snoqualmie Falls is an ideal choice for easy day trips from Seattle. This majestic 268-foot waterfall is one of the most famous waterfalls near Seattle, located on the Snoqualmie River just east of the city.
Powerful Snoqualmie Falls cascading down, a popular day trip destination near Seattle
Attracting over 1.5 million visitors annually, it’s a remarkably accessible and popular destination. There’s a convenient observation deck at the top providing a stunning viewpoint, as well as a gift shop. Being so close to Seattle, you can easily fit in other activities during your day.
My personal recommendation is to first view the falls from the upper observation deck and then take the scenic 0.7-mile hike down to the river level for a completely different and equally impressive perspective looking up at the falls.
View of Snoqualmie Falls from the lower observation deck
Combining a visit to Snoqualmie Falls with a stop at a local winery is a popular tour option that allows you to experience two highlights of the Seattle area in one trip. It’s a great example of the diverse attractions available for day trips near Seattle.
For a luxurious treat, consider booking a night at the beautiful Salish Lodge, located right at the top of the falls, offering breathtaking views and a chance to fully unwind after your visit.
8. Leavenworth
Visiting Leavenworth is arguably one of the most popular day trips from Seattle, appealing to both locals and tourists alike. The entire town center has been transformed into a Bavarian village, complete with charming architecture reminiscent of old Germany. This theme is embraced year-round, famously including lively Oktoberfest celebrations.
Bavarian-style buildings in the main street of Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth offers a multitude of fun activities within its unique setting. You can explore boutique shops, indulge in German sausages and beer at various eateries, and even enjoy a round of mini-golf. Its festive atmosphere makes it one of the best day trips from Seattle in winter, especially during the Christmas season when the town is adorned with dazzling holiday lights.
I’ve experienced Leavenworth in every season and honestly can’t pick a favorite. Fall brings beautiful foliage and the energy of Oktoberfest. Winter is truly magical with the snow and twinkling lights, giving the town a genuine European holiday feel.
Snow-covered Bavarian village of Leavenworth decorated for Christmas
I often stop in Leavenworth for lunch when traveling towards eastern Washington. Rhein Haus is a great spot for traditional German fare, while Blewett Brewing Company offers excellent pizza and local brews. If you prefer not to drive the scenic but winding route over the pass, there are guided tours available from Seattle, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
9. Tacoma
For those seeking easy day trips from Seattle or even a quick trip south from Portland, Tacoma is a waterfront city with a distinct character. It’s perhaps best known for the Museum of Glass, which showcases impressive works by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly, a native of Tacoma.
Tacoma offers a variety of attractions to fill a day. Point Defiance Park is a large urban park featuring the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, beautiful gardens, and scenic viewpoints. The revitalized waterfront area at Point Ruston provides shops, restaurants, and pathways along the water. With its numerous kid-friendly activities, Tacoma is an excellent choice for day trips from Seattle with children.
During the summer months, catching a Tacoma Rainiers baseball game is a classic local experience. The minor league stadium offers an enjoyable atmosphere with affordable tickets and concessions, making it a fun outing for all ages. Having attended a game here myself several years ago, I appreciated the casual vibe and good selection of food and drinks. Tacoma is one of the closer day trips around Seattle, making it easy to access and explore.
10. La Conner
Another charming option for a day trip near Seattle is the picturesque town of La Conner. I first stumbled upon this gem years ago while attending college in Bellingham and have made it a point to revisit every few years. Recently, I took a friend who hadn’t been before, and we discovered even more delightful spots.
Colorful buildings along the waterfront in the small town of La Conner
Upon arriving in town, I recommend starting your day with a coffee from Beaver Tales Coffee to fuel your exploration. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the streets as the shops begin to open and head to the waterfront to watch the boats. Don’t miss walking down to the Rainbow Bridge at the edge of town for an iconic photo opportunity and closer views of the water.
For lunch, you can’t go wrong with fish and chips at La Conner Waterfront Cafe or grabbing a beer and appetizers at La Conner Brewing Company. When you’re ready to shop, Handmade La Conner is a must-visit for its wonderful selection of lotions and other goods.
Welcome sign for the waterfront town of La Conner
La Conner offers a relaxed pace and a lovely setting, making it a perfect escape for day trips from Seattle when you want a dose of small-town charm and waterfront tranquility.
11. Woodinville
Just a short drive from the city center, Woodinville is an incredibly accessible and popular choice for day trips from Seattle among both locals and tourists. Its proximity makes it easy to visit for just an afternoon or dedicate an entire day to exploring the area.
Woodinville is primarily known as Woodinville Wine Country, boasting dozens of wineries for tasting. I’ve visited numerous wineries here over the years and have always had a positive experience. Chateau Ste Michelle is the most famous and highly recommended for first-time visitors. It’s a large estate with a gift shop, cafe, multiple tasting rooms, and expansive outdoor grounds perfect for strolling during your day trip from Seattle.
Other wineries I particularly enjoy include Armstrong Family Winery, Covington Cellars, and Cave B Estate Winery. If wine isn’t your preference, Woodinville also offers breweries, distilleries, and cideries, providing plenty of options for sampling local beverages on your day trip near Seattle. Combining a wine tasting experience here with a visit to nearby Snoqualmie Falls makes for a truly memorable day out.
12. Mount St. Helens National Park
Mount St. Helens National Park attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, drawn by the unique opportunity to get close to an active volcano. Many people are surprised to learn they can visit a volcano that still emits steam – one of many fascinating facts about the Seattle area.
View of the volcanic crater of Mount St. Helens National Park
Beyond volcano viewing, Mount St. Helens offers various activities perfect for adventurous day trips from Seattle. There are numerous hiking trails ranging in difficulty, offering different perspectives of the volcanic landscape. It’s also a popular destination for weekend trips from Portland due to its location further south in Washington.
However, it’s important to note that access to much of the mountain area is restricted or closed during the winter months due to snow. A recommended stop is the Johnston Ridge Observatory, which provides in-depth information about the mountain’s history and eruption, along with stunning views directly into the crater.
Hiker on the trail towards the summit of Mount St. Helens
For the truly adventurous, summiting the volcano (with a required permit) is an unforgettable experience. Other activities include spotting wildlife like elk, fishing at Coldwater Lake, exploring lava tubes, and horseback riding at Eco Park. Mount St. Helens is a key stop on many Pacific Northwest road trips and offers a dramatically different landscape compared to the coastal areas.
13. Bellingham
Bellingham is a vibrant coastal city situated near the Canadian border, offering a wealth of outdoor activities. Having lived in Bellingham during my college years, I can confidently say it’s one of the best day trips from Seattle, especially if you appreciate a beautiful natural setting combined with city amenities.
Boats docked at the harbor in Bellingham, a coastal city near Seattle
The area is also very family-friendly, making it a great choice for a Pacific Northwest family vacation or day trip. There are numerous parks, including the expansive Whatcom Falls Park, and several breweries that welcome families, offering a relaxed atmosphere for a meal.
Attractions include access to Mount Baker for hiking and skiing, Whatcom Falls, scenic Chuckanut Mountains, and the large Lake Padden. Within the city, you can visit the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention or the Whatcom Museum for cultural experiences.
Interior of Otherlands Brewery in Bellingham with patrons enjoying drinks
Be sure to explore the downtown area and stop by one of the many local restaurants or breweries for lunch or dinner. Boundary Bay Brewery is a long-standing favorite. Bellingham boasts over 20 small breweries, offering plenty of options for beer enthusiasts. Otherlands is a unique spot, serving Eastern European food alongside their brews. Bellingham offers a great mix of urban charm and outdoor adventure for a fulfilling day trip from Seattle.
14. Boeing Everett Factory
Located just about thirty minutes north of the city, the Boeing Everett Factory is a fascinating option that easily fits into a day trip around Seattle. It’s a must-visit for anyone with an interest in aviation, though even those less obsessed with planes, like myself, will find the experience captivating.
I’ve taken several visiting friends here, and they are always amazed by the sheer scale of the factory and the intricate process of assembling aircraft. The tour takes you inside the largest building in the world by volume, where you can see massive planes like the Boeing 747, 767, 777, and 787 being constructed.
One notable point is that you cannot bring phones or cameras inside the factory itself, so you’ll need to store them beforehand. This tour is particularly well-suited for cozy day trips from Seattle in winter, as it’s an indoor activity.
Tickets for the Boeing tour must be booked in advance online, so plan ahead. This makes for an easy and unique day trip near Seattle. Afterward, consider heading to the nearby town of Mukilteo for lunch or dinner. Ivar’s Seafood Bar is a great recommendation there, offering delicious seafood right on the water, tying into the local culinary scene.
15. Edmonds
Edmonds is often seen simply as a ferry terminal for those heading to the Olympic Peninsula via Kingston, but in my opinion, it’s one of the most delightful cities in the state and well worth a day trip from Seattle in itself. Head to North Brackett’s Landing to walk along a sandy beach, watch the ferries come and go, and grab a coffee from Waterfront Coffee for a perfect start.
Walking on the sandy beach at Brackett’s Landing North in Edmonds, Washington
The downtown area is full of appealing shops that open a little later in the morning. Anchor Chic, Crow, and Rogue are some of my favorite boutiques for clothing and accessories. If you’re traveling with kids, Little Bipsy is incredibly popular for its adorable children’s clothing – my boys get matching sweatsuits from there every year!
Choosing a favorite place to eat or drink in Edmonds is difficult, as there are many excellent options. MARKET is known for amazing seafood and lobster rolls, Demetris offers fantastic shareable appetizers with waterfront views, and Vie & Vin boasts a huge selection of wine available for tasting or purchase.
Wine bottles on display at Vinbero wine bar in Edmonds
Edmonds provides a relaxed coastal atmosphere with great dining and shopping, making it a pleasant and easy destination for day trips near Seattle, whether you’re just passing through or spending the whole day.
16. Yakima
For Seattle locals seeking a dose of warm weather and sunshine, Yakima is a top choice for a day trip. Located on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains, the weather in Yakima is consistently sunny and hot during the summer months, offering a different climate experience than coastal Seattle.
Vineyard rows under a sunny sky in Yakima Valley wine region
Yakima Valley is a significant wine region, boasting dozens of wineries where you can sample some of the state’s best wines, such as those at Treveri Cellars. The area also has a growing craft beer scene with a good number of breweries, and new ones continue to open each year, providing plenty of options for beer lovers.
Beyond beverages, Yakima is known for unique culinary treats like sought-after tamales that often sell out quickly. Be sure to visit the Sunday Farmer’s Market if your trip aligns, a great place to find local produce and goods before heading back.
Person holding a glass of white wine with a vineyard in the background in Yakima
The area also offers several hiking opportunities to explore the landscape, including personal favorites like Cowiche Canyon and Tieton Nature Trail. Yakima provides a taste of Eastern Washington’s climate and agricultural richness, making it a rewarding, sunnier alternative for day trips from Seattle.
17. Victoria, BC
Perhaps one of the most unique day trips from Seattle is a visit to Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. The incredible part is you don’t even need to drive! The Victoria Clipper ferry offers a direct route, taking you from Seattle to Victoria’s Inner Harbour in under three hours, arriving just before 11 am.
This allows for nearly five hours of exploration in the highly walkable city of Victoria. While it makes for a long day, it’s a highly entertaining one, especially for day trips from Seattle with kids. They’ll love the ferry ride itself, keeping an eye out for whales and other marine life.
Having visited Victoria around a dozen times, my go-to recommendations include the Royal BC Museum, the bustling Fisherman’s Wharf, and the world-renowned Butchart Gardens (though reaching the gardens from the harbor requires local transport).
Before catching the ferry back to Seattle, grab a meal at The Flying Otter Grill right by the harbor. Booking your Victoria Clipper ticket in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, as it’s a very popular activity. It’s a fantastic way to experience a different country for a day without the hassle of driving across the border.
18. Chuckanut Drive
Known as one of the most scenic drives in Washington State, Chuckanut Drive (Highway 11) offers breathtaking views along the coastline north of Seattle, up towards Bellingham. As a former student at Western Washington University nearby, I spent countless weekends driving here, always in awe of the spectacular sights.
There are numerous pullouts along the route where you can safely stop to take photos of the San Juan Islands and even glimpses of Canada on a clear day. For hikers, the Chuckanut Mountains offer excellent trails, with the Oyster Dome hike being a popular, rewarding option with panoramic views.
Summer is arguably the best time for hiking on Chuckanut Drive, making it one of the best day trips from Seattle during the warmer months. While there are a few restaurants directly on the drive, they aren’t always open.
A great option after your scenic drive is to continue south a short distance to the charming waterfront town of La Conner. Exploring La Conner adds another dimension to your day trip, offering shops, galleries, and eateries. The family-friendly La Conner Pub & Eatery is a good spot for a meal after your drive or hike. Afterward, a walk across the Rainbow Bridge at Pioneer Park provides lovely views of the harbor.
19. Gig Harbor
For a truly romantic escape or just a delightful waterfront visit, Gig Harbor is an excellent choice for day trips in Washington State. Located a mere 45-minute drive south of Seattle, this picturesque town offers a relaxing atmosphere. It’s one of my favorite short day trips from Seattle for a leisurely stroll.
I love grabbing a coffee and wandering along the waterfront, admiring the variety of boats – from small fishing vessels to impressive yachts and kayaks. If you feel like getting out on the water yourself, kayak rentals are available, perfect for an hour or two of exercise and unique views of the harbor.
Taking a boat tour is another fantastic way to experience Gig Harbor from the water while learning about its history and local points of interest. Several companies offer tours, and booking a morning tour often guarantees calmer water conditions. Gig Harbor provides a beautiful, laid-back setting ideal for a relaxing day trip from Seattle.
20. Snoqualmie Pass
Snoqualmie Pass is a versatile destination that makes for an excellent day trip from Seattle no matter the season. Many people associate it primarily with winter, thanks to The Summit at Snoqualmie Pass ski area. The Summit offers four distinct areas with runs catering to skiers and snowboarders of all levels, from beginners to those seeking backcountry adventures. I frequent the pass each winter, always working on improving my skiing technique.
Dog standing by the clear blue water of Snow Lake near Snoqualmie Pass
However, Snoqualmie Pass is just as appealing when the snow melts. The area transforms into a hiker’s paradise. One of my favorite hikes is the trail to Snow Lake, accessible from the Alpental parking lot, offering stunning alpine scenery. Gold Creek Pond is another fantastic option, being a shorter and very kid-friendly loop trail perfect for a leisurely walk.
Skiers on the slopes at Alpental ski area in Snoqualmie Pass
Whether you’re hitting the slopes, embarking on a mountain hike, or just enjoying the mountain air and scenery, Snoqualmie Pass offers a refreshing escape and easily ranks among the best day trips from Seattle for year-round outdoor activity.
What to Bring on a Seattle Day Trip
Packing smart ensures you’re prepared for whatever your adventure throws at you. For day trips around Seattle and drives near Seattle, here are a few items I always recommend bringing along, especially given the variable Pacific Northwest weather: comfortable walking shoes suitable for different terrains, layers of clothing, rain gear (even a light jacket!), water and snacks, sun protection (yes, even here!), and maybe a camera to capture the incredible scenery.
Having these essentials will help you enjoy your day trip to the fullest, whether you’re hiking a mountain trail or strolling through a charming town.
Where to Stay After a Day Trip From Seattle
After a full day of exploring, you’ll want a comfortable place to rest and recharge back in Seattle. There are numerous hotel options in the city center and surrounding neighborhoods catering to various budgets and preferences.
For a quintessential Pacific Northwest lodging experience, exploring the best Washington Airbnb cabins outside the city is an option if you decide to extend your trip. However, if you’re heading back to Seattle proper, consider hotels in areas like downtown, South Lake Union, or Capitol Hill for convenient access to dining and attractions. Many excellent choices are available to provide a relaxing end to your adventure.
Hopefully, this list has provided plenty of inspiration for amazing day trips from Seattle! There’s so much incredible natural beauty, unique culture, and exciting experiences just a short drive away. I genuinely enjoy exploring Washington State, and I know you will too.