Planning a Trip to Washington State: Insider Tips from a Local
Washington State is a beautiful destination in the pacific northwest United States. It is known for lush greenery, Puget sound, great hiking, and a bit of rain. If you are planning a trip to Washington State, keep reading to learn what to do and what to see.
I have lived in Washington State my entire life. I have explored all corners of the state and now call Seattle home. If you travel to Washington, I know you will love it as much as I do.
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Why Plan a Trip to Washington
When people plan a visit to the United States, they often visit California, New York, and Washington DC. However, the other Washington should be considered too.
The great thing about a trip to Washington State is the variety of sites and climates you can see within a short period of time.
Within a three-hour drive of Seattle, you can hike in the mountains, go skiing, visit a Bavarian village, visit 3 national parks, and go boating on amazing lakes.
Places to Visit in Washington State
There are many great cities, towns, and national parks to visit in Washington state. To visit a variety in one trip, I recommend a road trip. Plan to spend 1-3 days in each location based on your interests.
Seattle
Seattle is the biggest city in Washington State. It is a vibrant coastal city with unique culture, amazing food, and fun sites.
Where to Stay in Seattle: The W Seattle or Fairmont Olympic Hotel
- Visit Pike Place Market
- Explore the different neighborhoods and sample the amazing food
- Enjoy the coast from Alki beach
Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island is in Puget Sound, an hour drive and ferry ride from Seattle. It has small town charm and amazing ocean views.
Where to Stay on Whidbey Island: Captain Whidbey Inn
Things to do on Whidbey Island:
- Visit Fort Casey
- Explore Deception Pass
- Shop and Eat in Coupeville
For more information, read my day trip guide to Whidbey Island.
Ocean Shores
Ocean Shores is a coastal town known for its long, drivable beach. It has a very different culture from Seattle, with an emphasis on relaxation and enjoying life.
Where to Stay in Ocean Shores: Oyhut Bay
- Drive along the beach
- Take a horseback tour on the beach
- Rent mopeds and explore the coast
Find details on Ocean Shores in my weekend guide.
Chelan
Lake Chelan is a common summer and winter destination in eastern Washington. The small town is located at the end of a beautiful, large lake.
Where to Stay in Chelan: Campbells Resort
Things to do in Chelan:
- Rent a boat and enjoy a day on the lake
- Visit local wineries
- Go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing
Read my complete guide to Chelan Washington to begin planning your visit.
Camano Island
Where to stay on Camano Island: Camping, Camano Island Inn, Sea Mist Inn
Things to do on Camano Island:
- Wander the beaches at Cama Beach State Park and Camano Island State Park
- Zipline with Camano Tours NW
- Hike the various nature trails around the island
Check out my complete guide to Camano Island camping for more details and tips.
Best Activities in Washington
A trip to Washington State is a great time to try new outdoor activities. With many mountain ranges, lakes, beaches and national parks, Washington is perfect for outdoor adventures.
Whitewater rafting
Whitewater rafting is popular in a couple areas of Washington. Either in the Leavenworth area of the Cascade mountains or in White Salmon in the south.
Whitewater rafting is great for people of all ages and abilities. There are different level rapids based on the roughness of the water.
Whitewater rafting trips can be anywhere from halfway to multi-day with camping and meals included.
For more information on whitewater rafting, check out my beginner’s guide to rafting in Washington.
Mount Rainier National Park
Washington state is home to three national parks: North Cascades National Park, Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier National Park. Mount Rainier national park is my favorite and only three hours from Seattle.
Mount Rainier national park is great for hiking. There are trails for all levels to have amazing mountain, lake and overlook views.
To plan a great trip to Mount Rainier National Park, check out my Mount Rainier National Park guide or my guide to hiking in Mount Rainier National park.
Woodinville Wine Tasting
Wine tasting in Woodinville is a great weekend activity in Washington. Woodinville is a budding wine region with many wineries and tasting rooms, Spend a day visiting the best wineries and local restaurants.
Some of my favorite wineries in Woodinville are Efeste, Columbia, Chateau Ste Michelle, Fidelitas and Delille. For more information, check out my guide to Woodinville wine tasting.
Unique Stays in Washington State
My favorite unique accommodation in Washington state is the Stormking Cabins and spa. This amazing resort is located near Mount Rainier National Park, mentioned above.
The Stormking cabins are a grouping of six standalone cabins each with a private balcony and hot tub. The cabins are rustic, romantic, and luxurious.
If you would like to stay at the Stormking cabins, read my full review.
Final Thoughts
Overall, you cannot go wrong with a trip to Washington State. There is something for everyone from the big city to small towns to outdoor adventures.
If you have any more questions about Washington, leave them in the comments below.
