Things To Do In Washington State
Things To Do By City
Posts On Things To Do
We found 4 events in various parts of the state that lead up to Earth Day on April 22nd. But first, a quick refresher… History of Earth Day April 22nd, 1970 marked the beginning of Earth Day. A day to reflect on our own environmental impact and to take action where it’s needed. Gaylord Nelson, …
Video of the Point Robinson Lighthouse on Maury Island – Vashon Park District – March 2018 About Point Robinson Since 1885 Point Robinson has provided “fog and lighthouse service” on the east end of Maury Island (although most visitors would think of it as part of the larger Vashon Island). The lighthouse is a twin …
An annual rite of Spring in Washington State, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival in Mount Vernon draws visitors from all over the world each year. The festival begins this year on April 1st and runs through the end of the month. The photos below were taken on April 10th. Video of the Tulips near Mount …
Seattle cherry blossoms on the University of Washington campus in March of 2018. An eclectic yet peaceful combination of nature, selfie poses, and busy minds. Video of the Seattle Cherry Blossom on University of Washington Campus – 2018 Original video by Explore Washington State. Taken March 21, 2018.
Get Inspired To Go Fly a Kite! Kites are a common sight on the beaches of Southwestern Washington. I remember staying at Ocean Shores with family many years ago and being fascinated by the stunt kites being flown in the mornings and later afternoons almost every day. Most of us remember flying a single string …
I’m typically not one for exaggeration. There’s already too much hype in the world. So when I say that, “It was the worst dining experience of my 30 years of life” this was a REALLY, REALLY bad…Oh, but wait. I’m getting ahead of myself. The Scene: A Family Outing It was an unusually sunny and …
We’ve all heard the opinion that western Washington is almost perpetually grey and rainy. While that may be the case in winter months, most of the west side is quite temperate and beautiful for much of the rest of the year. However, when it comes to one special west side region, an honest-to-goodness rain forest …
Who are they? Rose Freeman and Anastasia Allison are a unique pair of classically trained musicians based in Washington state. If you haven’t heard of them before, a short summary: they climb mountains with a violin and keyboard strapped to their backs & play their music in the open nature. But what they really do …
Pronunciation: gooey- duck. Let’s Dig Right In Did you know these Pacific Northwest clams retail for more than $125 per pound in Asia? Adding purchases within the United States, geoducks are an $80 million industry. That left us wondering a few things, mostly: how are more people not talking about these things?! Fun Fact: Geoducks …
Open for over 40 years, the Olympic Game Farm in Sequim is the perfect weekend trip for the whole family. Originally designed to be a holding facility for the animal actors in Disney films, this private wildlife organization is still rich with beautiful wildlife. With 84-acres to explore by car (via their driving tour) you …
Looking for a quirky but historically rich day trip with some friends? The Northern State Hospital Farm located in Sedro-Woolley, might be what you’re after! Opened as the third hospital in the state of Washington for the criminally insane, Northern State Hospital was, for its time, very innovative and forward-thinking. In 1912 when they …
Founded and preserved on April 22nd, 2005 (Earth Day) by Gordon Hempton, One Square Inch of Silence, is a beautiful project meant to highlight how serene it can be to stand in nature and not hear any noise-pollution. The project is located in the Hoh Rain Forest in the heart of the Olympic …
Installed in 1974, this goat statue does indeed eat your garbage- making it a useful and quirky attraction. Originally introduced to Spokane as an art installment for the World’s Fair whose theme was “ecology”, this metal goat can be found in Riverside Park. How does it work you ask? Well inside of the statue is …
History: As high school history class taught us, in the late 1800’s there was a gold rush in western America. While most headed out west to California, Canada and Alaska,- Washington was perfectly settled in the middle. This meant while gold seekers were heading up to Canada for their chance at glory, they were bound …
Gold Creek Pond & Trail Snoqualmie, WA Video of Gold Creek Pond near Snoqualmie, WA. Taken by Explore Washington State – December 21, 2017 We had heard that Gold Creek Pond near Snoqualmie Pass in Washington was the perfect spot for snowshoe beginners. But we were also pleasantly surprised to discover that it’s not short …
The Turnball National Wildlife Refuge covers an expansive 18,000 acres in the Channeled Scablands, and contains an uncommon ecosystem, including “basalt outcrops, flood eroded channels, and ponderosa pine forests.” With over 130 marshes, wetlands and lakes, a visit to the Turnball Refuge is one you will never forget. The History Photo credit Around 15,000 years …
Settled above the Okanogan Valley, Esther Bricques Vineyard and Winery is owned by Linda and Steve Colvin. Developed and curated by hand, they planted their first vines even before they were married. “Steve and Linda believe in sustainable agricultural and wine production practices in clean, fresh, fruity wines unfettered by rounds of manipulation.” This …
Four miles outside of Moses Lake, you can find The Grant County Sand Dunes and ORV Park. Here you can ride on the sand dunes which are open year round. Or visitors can enjoy the mud flats – an additional 3,000 acres of sand, mud and trails. These are only open from the first of …
Dubbed “the city’s crown jewel,” Lake Sacajawea and Japanese Gardens is essentially a one stop park for outdoor activities. Visitors can run, walk, jog, or even bike on the 3.5 miles of trails. The lake is also open for kayaking, fishing and canoeing. If you love the outdoors, there’s something here for everyone. When visiting, …
Located in southern Washington, White Salmon is a special place for sports enthusiasts. Named by the Lewis & Clark Expedition for the salmon they found in the White Salmon River, the name is the first hint at recreational activities. (Fishing… it’s fishing.) Your Options When in the city, make sure to book a rafting trip …
The History The Seattle Scottish Highland Games Association was formed back in 1947. A local group of Scots wanted to create a group whose mission included “keeping their ethnic origin alive as well as stimulating an interest in Scottish Highland Games through Scottish dancing, piping, drumming and athletic competition.” What Are Highland Games? Traditionally in Scotland, …
On the border between Canada and Blaine, Washington, there stands a Peace Arch. Every year, over 500,000 tourists come and visit this very special arch and the surrounding park. Unique in the world, the Peace Arch stands in two different countries and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places at a whooping 67-feet …
The History ©2017 Liberty Orchards Co., Inc. In the early 1900’s, two young Armenian immigrants became friends and headed to Cashmere with hopes of a successful business venture. They bought an apple farm, Liberty Orchards, and quickly began looking for new ways for their surplus fruit to not go to waste. Thus, began the apple …
The Pacific Coast Cranberry Research Foundation, was established in 1922, almost one hundred years ago, in Long Beach. Their goals, per their website are to fund cranberry research, maintain cranberry farms, produce cranberries on site to fund research & extension activities, and to provide an educational facility. Growing and Harvesting Autumn is the harvest time …
Washington Lavender located in Port Angeles, Washington is a relaxation haven. The land was originally bought fifteen years ago by a Canadian couple, Dan and Jane Abbott. They had a dream of one day “having a small farm nearby in their retirement years.” And so, it was! Four years later, in 2006, their replica of …
Deep sea fishing is by definition any kind of fishing done in water about 100 feet deep on a boat, that isn’t easily visible from shore. This makes Westport a hotspot destination for deep sea fishing hobbyist each year, in the Northwest. Charting a boat in Westport is pretty easy and visitors have four companies …
Dash Point Park and Pier – Tacoma Washington Video overview of Dash Point Park One of my favorite little spots to frequent in the south sound is the Dash Point Park and Pier in NE Tacoma. This cute condensed beach and pier is sometimes referred to as the “Lobster Shop Beach”, because the restaurant by …
7 Must-Know Tips For Planning Your Trip to the 2017 Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival If a trip into the winter wonderland known as the “Village of Lights” sounds like an adventure to you, grab your lederhosen and flannel… it’s time to plan your trip to the 2017 Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival! And the best part …
Cloudview Farms – Our Favorite New Spot in Ephrata, WA Fall is one of my favorite times to travel with the family. Leaving Tacoma around 9am, our destination this Saturday morning was the annual Cloudview Farm Festival in Ephrata, WA. The forecast was sunny with a high of 65, but that was on the other …
Saddle Rock – Sweeping Panoramic Views Of Wenatchee! A city landmark, Saddle Rock is an easily accessible hike about a ten minute drive from downtown. Ranging from two to three-and-a-half miles roundtrip, this Wenatchee trail is something for children and adults alike. Trail running (level 2), hiking (level 2) and mountain biking (level 3) are …
Cloudview Farm Fall Fest This upcoming Saturday, October 7th, Cloudview Farm located in Ephrata will be hosting their annual Fall Fest. From 2pm until 5pm families can enjoy free admission to the following: live music, kid activities, cider pressing, a pumpkin patch, hay rides and you can even sample the produce they grow. This special …
Pacific Bonsai Museum – The Most Diverse Collection In North America! Tucked away in an unassuming part of Federal Way, WA and surrounded by a forest, it would be easy to overlook the Pacific Bonsai Museum. But this little artistic gem deserves recognition as an ideal outing for Puget Sound residents or those travelling up …
Washington Hikes: Mount Pilchuck Lookout Hike 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 …
Federal Way Performing Arts and Event Center 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 …
Finholm View Climb in Gig Harbor The Finholm View Climb provides an excellent view of Gig Harbor, complete with panoramic views of Mount Rainier and the Gig Harbor Marina. Yet sadly, many people in the area don’t know about this little local treasure because it’s tucked in the back of parking lot across from Anthony’s …
Pybus Public Market – A Story of Community, Legacy and the Restoration of an Iconic Landmark Pybus Public Market in Wenatchee, Washington opened in May of 2013 and has quickly become one of the region’s best attractions. Pybus Market has 16 permanent merchants with high quality selections of artisan, locally grown fruits and vegetables, Washington …
LeMay Car Museum in Tacoma 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 …
Ohme Gardens – A Journey Through An Evergreen Oasis During your visit to the Wenatchee Valley, make Ohme Gardens a part of the adventure. This must-see experience will be one that you will enjoy and remember long after your journey is over. Spectacular Views and Beautiful Landscapes Located on a high rock outcropping above the …
Damon Point and Oyhut Wildlife Area 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 …
Mission Ridge Ski Resort in Wenatchee Washington There’s nothing quite like the view of Washington’s serene snow-clad mountains in winter. If winter time is your favorite time to get outside and enjoy fresh air, then you’ll love a trip to the beautiful Mission Ridge Ski Resort in Wenatchee, Washington! Enjoy skiing, comfortable accommodations, and the …
Browns Point Lighthouse Beach Children crying because it’s too hot outside? Dad wants to take the motorcycle for a spin? Mom just wants to read her book in the shade? Then grab your arm floaties and your fishing rod and head down to Brown’s Point park just southwest of Federal Way. This awesome park sits …
Play Ball – Wenatchee AppleSox 2017 Season It’s springtime in Wenatchee and that means it’s baseball season! This year the Wenatchee AppleSox begin their season June 2nd against the Walla Walla Sweets. The AppleSox’s first home game will be June 8th vs. the Victoria HarbourCats at Paul Thomas Sr. Stadium. First pitch will be at …
Maple Valley Days 2017: List of Events Maple Valley is a city in western Washington State that is best known for an annual festival called “Maple Valley Days”. This festival is celebrated each year at Lake Wilderness Park in King County. The events start the second weekend of June and include a variety of activities for …
Point Defiance Park Today we want to dive into an overview of Point Defiance Park in Tacoma. This large public park is nestled at the end of the scenic Ruston Way “Waterwalk” in the north end of Tacoma and is home to three of the city’s most popular destinations for families and large groups. History of …
Port Townsend Farmers Market The Port Townsend Farmers Market in Port Townsend, Washington is a local event that you have to visit at least once. Of course, if you visit the farmers market once, you’ll want to do it over and over again! Get addicted to the delicious fresh fruits and vegetables at the market, …
Apple Blossom Festival in Wenatchee, Washington When spring rolls around in Washington, we all look forward to the advent of warmer weather and the beauty of blooms. In Wenatchee, we anticipate one bloom in particular: the apple blossom! Join us as we celebrate the Washington State Apple Blossom Festival this year from April 27th to …
Summer Sounds at Skansie Park 2017 Note: The summer 2017 Summer Sounds concert series has now ended… we will post the 2018 Summer Sounds at Skansie Park schedule in a separate post as soon as it is released. This is usually posted in the early spring. Hope to see you then! If you love fun, …
Bellevue Botanical Garden The Bellevue Botanical Garden is a popular destination for visitors and residents. And for good reason… this garden boasts 53 acres of lush gardens, wetlands and restored woodlands. And the best part is that it’s FREE and open daily! Overview The Seattle-Tacoma area does a fantastic job of providing and maintaining a …