Overview This small city is the perfect place if you love a close-knit community. Between Seattle and Portland, you are always close to a large city when the time calls. Surrounded by beautiful nature, Centralia is the best of outdoorsy and “city” living. While it was voted one of the worst cities to live in…
Overview Kent is located in King County, and is the second oldest incorporated city after Seattle in the county. Home to the ShoWare Center and the Pacific Raceways, Kent offers visitors and residents alike a taste of something different with each visit. Fun Facts Upcoming Events in Kent
Here at Explore Washington State, we’re always interested in finding out about people who are actively exploring new areas of Washington, whether that’s checking out new hotspots in urban areas, or out scrambling around in the woods with a GoPro. Just a few weeks ago, we ran across the YouTube channel Outside & Stuff, which…
A growing city located 45 minutes south and slightly of Seattle, Bonney Lake is located on the popular 410 Hwy, which leads to Mt Rainier. Many stop off in the town on their way to and from the mountain, and the city has a great “local feel” from the friendly year-round residents. The north part…
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 LeMay Car Museum in Tacoma is one of the coolest places in Washington to see historic cars. If you love history, cars, or both, this museum is a great way to enjoy an afternoon in the south Puget Sound! Roll up your sleeves, because this museum is anything but boring. Enjoy interactive exhibits, learn…
There’s something about getting out into the wilderness that refreshes the mind and the body. A little dirt and fresh air helps us put a new perspective on life and reminds of the vastness of our wild world. Thank goodness there are places we can go to recharge and renew! One of Washington’s best outdoor…
Overview Ocean Shores resides on the Point Brown peninsula just opposite Westport on the coast. It is about a 2 1/2 hour drive from Seattle and literally millions of people make the trek from all over the country to come enjoy this beautiful little Washington treasure. Water surrounds this town on all sides except a…
Overview Puyallup is located in the northwest part of Pierce County and is probably best known for hosting the Washington State Fair every year. Every spring for 4 days and every fall for three weeks, Puyallup is flooded with visitors from across the state seeking thrill rides, live music and a chance for the kids…
Overview Local opinions about Tacoma range from “An awesome cultural center bursting with opportunities” to “Seattle’s ugly little sister to the south”. Irony runs strong in this town as blue collar neighborhoods like Hilltop overlook more traditional homes in Proctor. Add to that the strong millennial influence on 6th Ave, the corporate presence in downtown…
The Bellevue Botanical Garden boasts 53 acres of lush gardens, wetlands and restored woodlands, making it a popular destination for both visitors and residents. The best part is that it’s free and open daily! A Public Park The Seattle-Tacoma area does a fantastic job of providing and maintaining a large variety of public parks. The…
You might think you know King County from its iconic cityscape of Seattle, but there’s much more beneath the surface. As the most populous county in the state and the 12th most populated in the country, it’s a hub of innovation and culture. Home to tech giants and lively markets, the area thrives on diversity…
