Explore Washington State
Washington State Destinations
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.
Nestled in the lush Sammamish River Valley just 25 minutes outside of Seattle, Downtown Woodinville is full of surprises and attractions for any visitor. Whether you’re eager to hop into the food scene, interested in learning about horticulture and urban farming or looking for local parks to play in, Woodinville is worth adding to your...
If walls could talk, these Washington state attractions would have a lot to say about their storied pasts. Historical Haunt #1 Oxford Saloon With a facade that looks like it’s straight out of a Western movie, there’s no surprise this Snohomish restaurant and pub is alive with more than just the nightly musical entertainment. Visitors report witnessing...
About a 2-hour drive from Seattle, Seaquest State Park is a great jumping-off point for visiting nearby Mount Saint Helens.
Looking for an outdoor activity in Auburn? With interesting geological features, hiking and an ADA-accessible trail, model aircraft flying, picnic and playground areas and a trail for equestrian use, Flaming Geyser State Park has something for most everyone to enjoy. Planning a trip to Flaming Geyser State Park? Our complete park guide covers hours, camping, activities,...
Looking for a scenic weekend getaway? La Conner is a small fishing town in Skagit County that winds along the Swinomish Channel. With its close proximity to Anacortes and the San Juan Islands, it is often overlooked as a destination. This town offers historic ambiance, delicious food, native influences, and abounding local culture. Here are...
As the weather begins to change and spring is upon us, it is finally time to stop being cooped up inside and spend some time in nature. After the extreme winter season, I am beyond ready to bask in the sun and enjoy the outdoors — especially at the Yakima Area Arboretum. With its claim...
Hugging the shores of Liberty Bay, Poulsbo’s downtown corridor is adorned with gingerbread house facades and Scandinavian-themed murals. Much like Leavenworth, its more famous cousin, Poulsbo is a European-styled village designed for tourists. Kitsch and quality collide in Poulsbo. The locals lean into their Scandinavian heritage, so there’s no shortage of t-shirts with pithy puns...
Seeking a trip with stunning mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, glacier-fed alpine lakes? North Cascades National Park is awaiting you.
If you haven’t experienced the stunning town of Port Townsend just yet, it’s time to add it to your list. It’s a magical sea town with historic architecture, stunning views and many shops and restaurants. If you’re planning a trip to the area, use these ideas to help guide you. Planning a trip to Port...
As road trips and nature have become the go-to for travel this year, Washington state offers so much to explore. The Olympic Peninsula is an incredible family escape offering something that everyone can enjoy, including your little ones. Port Townsend Even if only for a quick lunch and stroll, this town is a must while...
To say that the town of Steilacoom has historical value to the state of Washington and beyond would be an understatement. This seaside village has been there from the beginning, witnessing European discovery, the settlement of an American military outpost on the brink of war, French-Canadian fur trappers trading and hunting throughout the vast prairies...
