Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Washington, United States
1. Leavenworth
Bavarian-style village nestled in the Cascade Mountains offering outdoor activities and festivals.
- Outdoor Activities: Hiking, skiing, fishing, and kayaking available.
- Unique Culture: Experience German traditions like Oktoberfest, Christmas markets, and Maifest.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by the Cascade Mountain range with picturesque landscapes.
2. Whidbey Island
Island retreat with charming towns, wineries, and beaches near Seattle.
- Relaxing Beaches: Enjoy quiet, peaceful beaches away from the city.
- Wine Tours: Visit local wineries for tastings and tours.
- Historical Towns: Explore the historic towns of Coupeville and Greenbank.
3. Olympia
Capital city offering arts, history, and outdoor adventures.
- Arts and Culture: Visit the Washington State History Museum or Capital Theater.
- Outdoor Activities: Explore Capitol State Forest, Capitol Lake, and Priest Point Park.
- Farm-to-Table Dining: Experience locally sourced dining options at local restaurants.
4. Victoria, BC
Canadian city with charming architecture, gardens, and whale watching.
- Butchart Gardens: Visit the stunning Butchart Gardens for a unique experience.
- Whale Watching: Spot orcas, gray whales, and humpback whales.
- Victorian Architecture: Wander through historic buildings and neighborhoods.
5. San Juan Island
Island escape with wildlife encounters, scenic hikes, and quaint towns.
- Wildlife Spotting: See orcas, seals, and eagles in their natural habitat.
- Scenic Hikes: Explore the many trails on the island for breathtaking views.
- Historic Sites: Visit the historic English Camp and American Camp.
6. Port Townsend
Victorian seaport offering arts, history, and outdoor adventures.
- Arts and Culture: Visit galleries, museums, and performances.
- Historic Sites: Explore Fort Worden State Park and the Victorian-era buildings.
- Outdoor Activities: Hike, kayak, or bike in the surrounding parks and trails.
7. Mount Rainier National Park
Alpine wonderland with hiking, skiing, and stunning views of Mount Rainier.
- Hiking: Challenge yourself with a climb up Mount Rainier or take a leisurely stroll.
- Wildlife Spotting: See elk, deer, and mountain goats in their natural habitat.
- Scenic Beauty: Experience the beauty of alpine meadows, glaciers, and forests.
8. Columbia River Gorge
Gorgeous canyon offering hiking, waterfalls, and scenic drives.
- Hiking Trails: Explore trails like Angel's Rest and Wahkeena Falls.
- Waterfall Viewing: See Multnomah Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horsetail Falls.
- Scenic Drives: Take a scenic drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway.
9. Spokane
Eastern Washington city with arts, history, and outdoor adventures.
- Arts and Culture: Visit the Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture or Bing Crosby Theater.
- Outdoor Activities: Hike, bike, or ski at Riverside State Park or Mount Spokane.
- Historic Sites: Explore the Davenport Mansion and downtown's historic buildings.
10. Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
Volcanic landscape with hiking trails, wildlife, and scenic views.
- Hiking Trails: Explore trails like the Monitor Ridge Trail or Loowit Trail.
- Wildlife Spotting: See elk, deer, and bears in their natural habitat.
- Scenic Beauty: Experience the unique volcanic landscape and awe-inspiring views.
11. Walla Walla
Wine country town with vineyards, historic sites, and outdoor adventures.
- Wine Tours: Visit local wineries for tastings and tours.
- Historic Sites: Explore Fort Walla Walla Museum or Myra J. Gillis French Colonial Chateau.
- Outdoor Activities: Hike, bike, or fish in nearby parks and rivers.
12. Coupeville
Charming island town with whale watching, wine tours, and historic sites.
- Whale Watching: Spot orcas, gray whales, and humpback whales.
- Wine Tours: Visit local wineries for tastings and tours.
- Historic Sites: Explore the Wharf, Captain William Clark's home, and Front Street.
13. Leavenworth Winter
Bavarian-style village transformed into a winter wonderland with skiing, ice skating, and festive activities.
- Winter Sports: Ski or snowboard at Stevens Pass or try ice skating in the village.
- Festive Activities: Participate in holiday-themed events like Reindeer Festival and Christmas Lighting.
- Unique Culture: Experience German traditions like sled dog rides, yodeling, and alpenhorn blowing.
14. Puget Sound Islands
Island getaway with charming towns, beaches, and outdoor adventures.
- Relaxing Beaches: Enjoy quiet, peaceful beaches away from the city.
- Outdoor Activities: Hike, bike, or kayak on the islands.
- Historic Sites: Visit historic lighthouses, forts, and museums.
15. Tri-Cities
Eastern Washington city with wine country, historic sites, and outdoor adventures.
- Wine Tours: Visit local wineries for tastings and tours.
- Historic Sites: Explore the Hanford Reach National Monument or Columbia Basin Heritge Center.
- Outdoor Activities: Hike, bike, or fish in nearby parks and rivers.