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Explore Washington State

Things To Do

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.

Recent Things To Do Articles

Showing 61 to 72 of 259 articles
One Hour Birding in Olympia, Washington
Karla Kelly · June 20, 2024

When I decided to write a birding feature for Explore Washington State, I wracked my brain about which of my favorite birding locales I would showcase for an hour of birding. Ultimately I decided that it would be most appropriate to take you on a journey that echoes my own when I first began birding,...

Spending a Day in Downtown Woodinville
Gracie Read · June 11, 2024

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...

5 Historical Haunts Worth a Road Trip
Sarah Prentice · June 10, 2024

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...