Explore Washington State
Washington State packs more geographic variety into one state than almost anywhere else in the country. In a single weekend, you can wake up to ocean fog on the Pacific coast, drive through old growth rainforest, and fall asleep under the stars in the high desert east of the Cascades. That kind of range makes trip planning exciting, though it can occasionally feel overwhelming.
This section is where we have gathered every destination guide, weekend escape, day trip, and local find we have published across the state. Every post is written by someone who actually made the drive, not a sponsored itinerary or filler content. Real trips, real opinions, real Washington.
We cover all corners of the state: the wild beaches and rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula, the ferry accessible islands of Puget Sound, mountain towns like Leavenworth and Winthrop in the Cascades, the wine country and wide open spaces of Eastern Washington, and the day trip destinations within easy reach of Seattle. Whether you are planning a family vacation, a solo road trip, or a quick weekend getaway, you will find something worth bookmarking here.
Browse recent posts below, or use the county and city tags on any post to find more content from a specific area. Washington rewards the curious traveler and there is always another destination worth discovering.
Founded by Ole Stubb, a Norwegian immigrant in 1875, Poulsbo is often referred to as “Little Norway,” with good reason. Throughout history this portion of land in the North Kitsap County has been used for fishing and trapping by Europeans and Native Americans alike. The First Norwegian Ole Stubb came to America with his family,...
Did you know that Central Washington University has actually gone through four name changes? It’s only been CWU since 1977. Originally founded in 1891, its first name was “Washington State National School in Ellensburg.” How’s that for a mouthful? Now it is filled with over 11,000 students annually, and was ranked “Top-rated four-year University in...
You may have seen the majestic Lady Washington in such films such as “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” or “Star Trek: Generations.” But did you know it was originally created in 1787? Yeah, it’s that old. Kind of. History Lesson! According to Historical Seaport, in 1788 the original Lady Washington...
One of our favorite little spots to frequent in the south sound is the Dash Point Park and Pier in NE Tacoma. This cute condensed beach and pier is sometimes referred to as the “Lobster Shop Beach” because the restaurant by the same name used to own a quaint waterfront location just across from the...
Located in Goldendale, the Maryhill Museum of Art first opened in 1940. Back then, Time Magazine called it “the world’s most isolated art museum.” Today it is a popular stop in southern Washington for thousands of travelers each year.With over 5,000 acres of property, the museum has ample room for several contrasting exhibits, both permanent...
A small town of just over 1,600 residents, Ritzville isn’t a vacation hotspot. And while there may not be much to do in this 1.70 square mile area, it does make for a great place to stretch your legs. Check out these activities that make Ritzville a unique spot to stop. Visit Ritzville Before stopping...
Vancouver Washington is a city located in Clark County Washington with about 175,000 residents, and it’s growing quickly. A family-friendly city with a unique style, Vancouver was voted one of “Livability.com’s Top 10 Staycation Cities” in 2011. So, what’s so great about it? Close to Mt. St. Helens and Mount Hood, the great outdoors aren’t far...
Tucked away in an unassuming part of Federal Way, WA and surrounded by a forest, it would be easy to overlook the Pacific Bonsai Museum. But this little artistic gem deserves recognition as an ideal outing for Puget Sound residents or those travelling up the I-5 corridor. Perfect for children of any age, a couple...
Federal Way residents are excited to welcome the addition of the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center to the newly remodeled downtown district as of August 19th, 2017. From Seattle to Tacoma, those who are interested in the arts eagerly anticipate the growth of the Center into a venue that attracts renowned performers, making...
The Finholm View Climb provides an excellent view of Gig Harbor, complete with panoramic views of Mount Rainier and the Gig Harbor Marina. Yet sadly, many people in the area don’t know about this little local treasure because it’s tucked in the back of parking lot across from Anthony’s restaurant. But a little jaunt through...
Pybus Public Market in Wenatchee, Washington opened in May of 2013 and has quickly become one of the region’s best attractions. Pybus Market has 16 permanent merchants with high quality selections of artisan, locally grown fruits and vegetables, Washington wines, meats, flowers, oils, pastries and freshly-made, prepared foods from some of the best restaurants in...
The LeMay Car Museum in Tacoma is one of the coolest places in Washington to see historic cars. Planning a trip to Tacoma? Start with our complete Tacoma Visitor Guide → If you love history, cars, or both, this museum is a great way to enjoy an afternoon in the south Puget Sound! Roll up...
