The Evergreen State is a treasure trove of natural wonders, vibrant cities, and cultural landmarks, from the majestic peaks of the Cascades Range to the bustling streets of Seattle and Spokane, with the proverbial something for everyone. You´ll be spoiled for choice, and if we had to narrow it down to just ten destinations, it has to be these:
Dubbed "the Emerald City," this dynamic metropolis of 755,000 (top) is nestled between Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains. Explore iconic landmarks like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, where you can sample fresh seafood and browse local crafts. Immerse yourself in the city's thriving arts scene; visit world-class museums like the Museum of Pop Culture; check out buried history at Underground Seattle; and wadner through lush parks like Discovery Park or the Seattle Japanese Garden. (For much more, read this Tripatini post.)
Olympic National Park
Just under three hours´ drive from Seattle, embark on an adventure to this 1,442-square-mile UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests and pristine beaches to snow-capped mountains and alpine meadows, the park offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Among other things, you can hike through old-growth forests in the Hoh Rainforest; take in the rugged coastline at Ruby Beach; and soak in natural hot springs at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort.
Dicklyon
Escape to this pristine, idyllic archipelago of islands (above) - four of which can be visited - nestled in the Salish Sea (four hours from Seattle by a mix of flying, driving, and ferries) to explore charming island communities like Friday Harbor and Orcas Island, where you can sample local cuisine, browse art galleries, and spot whales from the shore. Enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, whale watching, and hiking in Moran State Park, or simply relax on secluded beaches and soak in the natural beauty of the islands.
Towering over the Cascade Range, 14,410-foot Mount Rainier (aka Tahoma, visible in the photo at top) is an iconic symbol of Washington State. Head 2½ hours south of Seattle to explore the 369-square-mile park surrounding it, featuring among other things cascading waterfalls, glaciers, and alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers. Embark on scenic drives like the Paradise Loop or Sunrise Road; hike to picturesque vistas like Skyline Trail and Comet Falls; and marvel at the beauty of the mountain mirrored in crystal-clear lakes like Reflection Lakes.
Wilkommen to a picturesque bit of Bavaria nestled in the Cascade Mountains 2½ hours inland from Seattle. Known for its charming architecture and festive atmosphere, set amid stunning scenery, this town of just under 2,300 offers a unique blend of Central European charm and Pacific Northwest beauty. Explore quaint shops; indulge in hearty German cuisine; and attend lively festivals like Oktoberfest or the Christmas Lighting Festival.
Discover the rugged beauty of this remote, 78-square-mile spread of wilderness characterized by jagged peaks, glacier-carved valleys, and pristine lakes. A two-hour drive from Seattle, the park offers unparalleled opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and wildlife viewing amid stunning alpine scenery. Trek along the Pacific Crest Trail; paddle through turquoise waters on Ross Lake, and get an eyeful of the cascading waterfalls along the Cascade River Road.
Witness the awe-inspiring power of nature at this 8,363-foot-high active volcano, two hours south of Seattle, which famously erupted in 1980, reshaping the landscape and leaving behind a hauntingly beautiful crater. At the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument (above) you can hike through the blast zone; visit the Johnston Ridge Observatory; and learn about the volcano's eruption and recovery.
Experience the vibrant culture and outdoor adventures of the bustling "Spo" (pop. around 229,000) located along the Spokane River in eastern Washington. Explore Riverfront Park, home to the iconic Clocktower and the Spokane Falls SkyRide, or stroll through the historic neighborhoods of Browne's Addition and Riverside. Enjoy outdoor activities like biking along the Centennial Trail, exploring Manito Park and Botanical Gardens; and see if you can schedule to attend events like the 87-year-old Lilac Festival (celebrating the love of these blooms in what is nicknamed the "Lilac City") or Hoopfest (the world´s largest half-court basketball tournament, held at the end of June).
Four hours by car and just over five by train from Seattle, this stunning 4,000-foot-deep river canyon (above) runs 80 miles along the Washington-Oregon. Highlights like scenic viewpoints such as Vista House and Multnomah Falls; hiking along picturesque trails like Eagle Creek and Dog Mountain; and charming towns like Hood River and Stevenson. Other experiences include windsurfing, kiteboarding, and wine tasting, all amid breathtaking natural beauty.
This vibrant city of around 219,000, also located on Puget Sound just 40 minutes south of Seattle is especially notable for its cultural institutions. Explore the Museum District, home to the Tacoma Art Museum, Museum of Glass, and Washington State History Museum, and stroll through the scenic waterfront at Point Defiance Park. It´s also a delight to eat your way through Tacoma´s thriving culinary scene and shop in the historic Proctor District, and annual events worth scheduling around include the Tacoma Film Festival and Daffodil Parade.
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Comments
As a Seattleite, I approve this list! I´d also add a couple of other places. The Kitsap Peninsula across Puget Sound from Seattle is great for cute little towns like Bremerton, Poulsbo, Bainbridge Island, and Gig Harbor, as well as great outdoorsy experiences like hiking and kayaking. And also picturesque Walla Walla down near the Oregon border is great for its shops, art scene, and tons of nearby wineries!