Ready for your dream Washington State vacation? From Seattle’s skyline and sound views to orcas in the San Juans, rainforest hikes, and volcanic peaks, this guide outlines the perfect Washington itinerary.
These easy-to-use and curated itineraries help find the best things to do in Washington—from coffee tastings and ferry rides to alpine lakes and scenic drives for the best Pacific Northwest trip.
- Seattle: The Emerald City delivers skyline views, coffee culture, indie music, Pike Place charm, and towering Mt. Rainier in the distance.
- Mount Rainier National Park: Iconic and awe-inspiring—wildflower meadows, glacial peaks, and hiking trails you’ll never forget.
- Olympic National Park: From lush rainforests to rugged coastlines and alpine lakes, it’s like three national parks in one.
- Leavenworth: A Bavarian-themed mountain town with alpine charm, bratwurst, beer gardens, and festive energy year-round.
- Spokane: Eastern Washington’s cultural hub with a riverfront park, craft breweries, and historic downtown vibes.
- Tacoma: A port city turned art haven—check out the Museum of Glass, waterfront trails, and industrial-cool neighborhoods.
- San Juan Islands: Orca watching, kayaking, and coastal calm—these islands are a Pacific Northwest paradise in slow motion.
- Olympia: Washington’s capital city mixes civic pride, indie culture, historic architecture, and lush waterfront parks.
- Bellingham: A college town with outdoor soul—great for hiking, biking, and sipping local brews with bay views.
- Walla Walla: Wine lovers rejoice—this sunny valley blends charming streets, top-notch vineyards, and gourmet dining.
- Snoqualmie Falls: Just a short drive from Seattle, this 268-foot waterfall stuns with Twin Peaks energy and misty majesty.
- Chelan: A lakeside gem where wineries meet water sports and sunshine reigns on Washington’s east side.
- North Cascades National Park: One of the nation’s wildest and least-crowded parks—glacial peaks, turquoise lakes, and solitude await.
- Whidbey Island: Slow coastal living with historic towns, farmland, and ferry rides just a stone’s throw from Seattle.
- Anacortes: A laid-back ferry hub and gateway to the San Juans, with charming harbors, seaside hikes, and salty air.
- Mount St. Helens: Stand in awe of nature’s power at the site of the 1980 eruption—still smoldering with science and beauty.
📅 Washington Calendar
- Bellingham Art Walk (First Fridays, Monthly): Downtown galleries, studios, and music open to the public
- Winterfest at Lake Chelan (January, Chelan): Ice sculptures, wine tastings, and snowy views
- Bavarian Icefest (January, Leavenworth): Ice carving, games, fireworks, and snow-filled fun for the whole family
- Skagit Valley Tulip Festival (April, Mount Vernon): Fields of vibrant blooms just north of Seattle
- Procession of the Species (April, Olympia): A colorful, creative parade celebrating nature through costume and art
- Anacortes Spring Wine Festival (April): Sip Washington wines, enjoy live music, and sample local cuisine
- Northwest Folklife Festival (May, Seattle Center): Folk music, global dance, and arts
- Ski to Sea Race & Festival (Memorial Day Weekend, Bellingham): Multisport relay race from Mount Baker to Bellingham Bay
- Maifest (May, Leavenworth): Celebrate spring with traditional German dancing, maypoles, and outdoor performances
- Seattle International Film Festival (May–June, Seattle): One of the largest film festivals in North America
- Anacortes Waterfront Festival (June, Anacortes): Boat shows, food vendors, classic cars, and kids’ activities by the water
- San Juan Summer Arts Festival (June–August, Friday Harbor): Outdoor music and artisan markets
- Shipwreck Day Street Fair (July, Anacortes): Community-wide flea market and quirky coastal treasures along Commercial Avenue
- Sequim Lavender Festival (July, Olympic Peninsula): Endless purple fields and lavender treats
- Leavenworth Summer Theater (July–August, Leavenworth): Open-air musicals like “The Sound of Music” set against a mountain backdrop
- Olympia Film Festival (Fall, Olympia): Independent films, guest panels, and retro screenings at the historic Capitol Theater
- Anacortes Arts Festival (Early August): Three-day celebration with over 250 artists, food trucks, live music, and beer gardens
- Bumbershoot (September, Seattle): Eclectic music and arts festival at Seattle Center
- Bellingham SeaFeast (September, Bellingham): Celebrate local seafood with tastings, demos, and harbor tours
- Oyster Run Motorcycle Rally (September, Anacortes): Thousands of bikers gather in town for the largest rally in the Pacific Northwest
- Olympia Harbor Days (Labor Day Weekend, Olympia): Tugboat races, historic ships, and maritime fun for all ages
- Autumn Leaf Festival (Late September, Leavenworth): Parade, music, and fall color viewing as golden larch and maple trees light up the hills
- Oktoberfest (Weekends in October, Leavenworth): Live polka, German beer, bratwurst, and a festive atmosphere all over town
- Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting (December, Anacortes): Holiday spirit lights up downtown with festive floats and community cheer
- Christmas Lighting Festival (Late November–December, Leavenworth): Magical lights, carolers, sleigh rides, and mulled wine in a storybook winter setting