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 73 to 84 of 273 articles
One Hour Birding in Olympia, Washington
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,...
A Day at Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie Falls is a beloved Washington Attraction. Go beyond the lookout and find places to eat, recreation, and more nearby!
Hiking The Baker Lake Trail: Build Your Own Adventure
Gear Up for Washington Weather Washington trails are wet more often than not. Here is what we recommend for any day out on the trail. All three are available in men’s and women’s versions. (affiliate links) Hiking Boots KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof$180 | 4.3 stars (755 reviews)Solid traction on muddy and rocky Washington terrain....
Visiting Pacific Raceways
Ever wanted to learn how to drive a race car? At ProFormance Racing School you can get behind the wheel and on the track.
Lakes Near Spokane: 9 Great Spots for Kayaking & Fishing
This was a hard article to write because in the Pacific Northwest there are so many great areas to explore and there are not just a few things here or there, there are many. So, for this article I’m writing about five lakes around Eastern Washington that I explored. First, I asked others their opinion...
Reeling in the Best: Top Fishing Spots and Tips for Anglers in Washington State
Washington is known for its fishing, offering anglers a variety of rivers, lakes, and coastal areas to explore. Learn all there is to know.
Washington Cryptids
Learn about Washington's Cryptids, where you'll find them, and what legends these mystical creatures come along with.
5 Lookouts Near Seattle to Visit This Summer
Washington is known for it's beautiful landscapes. There is no better way to see the sites than from one of the many outstanding lookouts!
Visiting The Bloedel Reserve on Bainbridge Island
Tucked away on the north end of Bainbridge Island, a pristine estate sits atop the high banks looking north over Puget Sound. A fairytale setting come to life, the enchanted woods, sweeping meadows and romantic 18th century French-inspired villa that make up The Bloedel Reserve gives visitors a personal glimpse into one of Washington’s more...
Spending a Day in Downtown Woodinville
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
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...