How to Plan a Budget Trip in Washington, United States
1. Space Needle
Iconic observation tower with rotating restaurant offering panoramic views of Seattle. It's one of the city's most recognized landmarks.
- Affordable Hours: Visit during Happy Hour for discounted admission
- Student Discount: Show student ID to receive a reduced rate
- Online Discounts: Purchase tickets online to save a few dollars
2. Pike Place Market
Famous public market with fresh produce, seafood, and crafts. Known for its lively atmosphere and the original Starbucks store.
- Free Samples: Sample food items before making a purchase
- Street Performers: Enjoy live music and entertainment for free
- Self-Guided Tours: Save money by exploring on your own instead of taking a guided tour
3. Olympic National Park
Stunning national park featuring rainforests, mountains, and beaches. Offers hiking trails with breathtaking views.
- Camping Sites: Save on accommodation costs by camping in designated areas
- Free Activities: Enjoy free activities like hiking and picnicking
- Annual Passes: Consider purchasing an annual pass if visiting multiple national parks
4. Mount Rainier National Park
Largest park in the Cascade Range with glaciers, meadows, and wildlife. Ideal for hiking and mountain climbing.
- Backcountry Camping: Save on accommodation costs by camping in designated backcountry areas
- Free Ranger Programs: Participate in free ranger programs to learn about the park's history and wildlife
- Self-Guided Tours: Explore at your own pace by taking a self-guided tour
5. San Juan Islands
Archipelago in the Pacific Northwest known for its orcas and beautiful landscapes. Offers whale watching tours and scenic hikes.
- Budget Tours: Book budget-friendly whale watching tours in advance
- Camping: Save on accommodation costs by camping in designated areas
- Off-Season Visits: Visit during the off-season for lower prices and fewer crowds
6. Leavenworth
Bavarian-style town in central Washington known for its Oktoberfest celebrations. Offers shops, restaurants, and scenic hiking trails.
- Free Activities: Enjoy free activities like walking tours and stargazing
- Group Discounts: Take advantage of group discounts when visiting attractions
- Off-Season Visits: Visit during the off-season for lower prices and fewer crowds
7. Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
Site of the 1980 volcanic eruption featuring a crater and hiking trails.
- Free Activities: Enjoy free activities like hiking and picnicking
- Guided Tours: Save money by joining a guided tour instead of renting a car
- Annual Passes: Consider purchasing an annual pass if visiting multiple national parks
8. North Cascades National Park
Park featuring rugged mountains, glaciers, and wild rivers. Offers hiking trails with stunning views.
- Backcountry Camping: Save on accommodation costs by camping in designated backcountry areas
- Free Activities: Enjoy free activities like hiking and picnicking
- Group Discounts: Take advantage of group discounts when visiting attractions
9. Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
Area featuring stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic vistas.
- Free Activities: Enjoy free activities like hiking and picnicking
- Guided Tours: Save money by joining a guided tour instead of renting a car
- Off-Season Visits: Visit during the off-season for lower prices and fewer crowds
10. Fremont Troll
Giant troll sculpture under the Aurora Bridge in Seattle's Fremont neighborhood.
- Free Attraction: This attraction is completely free to visit
- Photo Opportunities: Capture unique and memorable photos with the troll sculpture
- Local Atmosphere: Experience Seattle's quirky, artistic side in the Fremont neighborhood
11. Chihuly Garden and Glass
Museum featuring glass artwork by Dale Chihuly. Offers indoor and outdoor exhibits.
- Group Discounts: Take advantage of group discounts when visiting attractions
- Combination Tickets: Purchase combination tickets to save money on other nearby attractions
- Online Discounts: Purchase tickets online to save a few dollars
12. Washington State Ferry
Ferry service connecting various islands and cities along the Puget Sound.
- Day Passes: Purchase a day pass for unlimited travel within a specified time frame
- Reservations: Make reservations to secure your spot on popular routes
- Off-Peak Travel: Travel during off-peak hours for lower prices and shorter wait times
13. Bellingham
Coastal city in northern Washington with a bustling downtown area, parks, and beaches.
- Free Activities: Enjoy free activities like beach visits and walks along the waterfront
- Accommodation Deals: Take advantage of accommodation deals during the off-season or weekdays
- Local Festivals: Plan your trip around local festivals for a unique cultural experience
14. Olympic Peninsula
Area featuring national parks, coastal towns, and scenic drives.
- Self-Guided Tours: Explore at your own pace by taking a self-guided tour
- Accommodation Deals: Take advantage of accommodation deals during the off-season or weekdays
- Free Activities: Enjoy free activities like hiking and picnicking
15. Spokane Falls
Waterfalls and park area in Spokane featuring walking paths, sculptures, and views of the falls.
- Free Attraction: This attraction is completely free to visit
- Local Landmark: Experience the natural beauty and history of Spokane Falls
- Photo Opportunities: Capture unique and memorable photos of the falls and surrounding area