Explore Washington State
Things To Do in Washington State
Washington State gives you an almost unreasonable number of options for how to spend your time. Whether you are looking for something to do on a rainy afternoon in Seattle, a full week of outdoor adventure on the Peninsula, or a low key weekend in a small town you have never heard of, this state rewards people who are willing to explore beyond the obvious.
This section is where we collect everything that falls under the category of actually doing something in Washington. You will find activity guides, local recommendations, seasonal ideas, things to do with kids, hidden gems worth the detour, and honest assessments of whether something is actually worth your time. Every post is written by someone who has been there.
We cover the full range: outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and skiing alongside arts, food, history, and local culture. Washington is one of those states where the things worth doing in a small coastal town are just as compelling as what you will find in its major cities. There is genuinely a lot here that most people never get around to.
Browse by scrolling through recent posts below, or use the county and city tags on any post to find activities in a specific area. If you are looking for somewhere to start, the county guides are a good way to get oriented.
Seattle is best known for its coffee scene, but the cocktail scene has been growing for quite some time and might be nearing its peak. There are tons of very cool and interesting bars all over the city and no matter what neighborhood you’re exploring, you’re bound to step foot in an amazing establishment. I...
Looking for a challenging hike to tackle in the Olympic forest? Klahhane Ridge Loop Trail might be the fit for you! Explore Washington State Contributor Zac Blaylock recently conquered the Klahhane Ridge Loop Trail, closing out at 16 miles round-trip, with sweeping views of Mount Olympus, Port Angeles Harbor and Sequim Bay. Back Into Hiking...
It’s a good idea to revisit a destination from time to time to make sure the favorite spots still live up to the memories while discovering some new favorites. My latest outing to Woodinville’s Schoolhouse District did just that. Plus, it meant the chance to visit a couple of spots previously overlooked – one for...
When you consider visiting the Fremont Troll, you’re stepping into a piece of Seattle’s unique cultural tapestry. Nestled beneath the Aurora Bridge, this larger-than-life sculpture invites you to ponder its history and the community sentiment it embodies. To truly appreciate what the Troll represents, consider planning your visit at a time that allows for a...
Have you ever gone snowshoeing trails during the winter? Washington State is full of seasonal snowshoe trails, from the Cascade Mountains to Central and Eastern Washington. Get started this winter with our beginner’s guide to snowshoeing in Washington. Choose Your Trail Before setting out, pick a light to moderate trail for your earliest snowshoe ventures....
Winter in Washington can bring magnificent snow, but what if you are not a downhill skier? Have you tried snowshoeing? Snowshoeing is a wonderful way to get out into the snow, see gorgeous views, have some adventures and get some exercise! We are going to cover a six beginner shoeshoe hikes to make you comfortable...
Here in the Evergreen State, we have a pretty great reputation for our mountains, our coffee and our rain. If that isn’t awesome enough, we are also fortunate enough to be the home to three National Parks! Each of these parks offers its own unique scenery, activities and vibes to enjoy. While Washington is definitely...
The Hood Canal, located between the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, is a beautiful area to visit year-round and perfect for PNW adventures. It’s famous for marine life, oyster farms/aquaculture, charming small towns, and proximity to Olympic National Forest. The Hood Canal is a 2 hour drive from Seattle and 2.5 hours from Portland. We...
Experience the beauty that is Sol Duc Falls! Learn all there is to know about the trail including how to get there, trail details, and more!
Where to Photograph Autumn Colors in Our Gorgeous State Can you feel it? Autumn is here and, in my opinion, the best season in Washington, certainly for photography! Grab your camera or your cell phone and let’s go on some road trips to capture the amazing fall colors that our state has to offer while...
Located in the heart of the Methow Valley, Twisp Washington captivates visitors with its picturesque beauty and vibrant community spirit. The town of Twisp rests on the valley floor where the pristine waters of the Methow and Twisp rivers meet. Surrounded by the rugged peaks of the North Cascades and Sawtooth Wilderness, this charming town has many offerings to fit...
Established in 1889, Mount Vernon is a small city located 60 miles north of Seattle. The city is often abbreviated as Mt. Vernon, WA by locals and visitors alike. Most visitors know Mount Vernon as home of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, held annually during spring in Skagit County. But there’s plenty to do here...
