Tourist Attraction in Washington State

Tourist Attraction in Washington State

The natural universe live larger than spirit in the state of Washington . The state is pile with sleeping volcanoes , lush rainforests , and islands entire of attraction . And surround these verdant landscape are cities bad and humble , brimming with cultural appeal .

Washington State attract million of tourists each yr . These visitor and possible transplants descend upon the land for respective reasons . For those who make n’t explored the massive charm of the Evergreen State , from world-class adventures to one-of-a-kind music and artistic scenes , there ‘s no in effect time than today to observe out what makes Washington so special .

Fun thing to act and exciting places to visit are found in every direction in Washington , include the more arid eastern slope of the nation , in cities like Spokane . One trip to Washington will never be enough , and even living there for year wo n’t reveal the total splendor of the nation . Design your trip with our list of the top attraction in Washington State .

  • Olympic National Park
  • Seattle Center and the Space Needle
  • San Juan Islands
  • Mount Rainier National Park
  • Seattle Downtown
  • Leavenworth
  • North Cascades National Park
  • Puget Sound
  • Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
  • Deception Pass State Park
  • Port Angeles
  • Riverfront Park , Spokane
  • Bellingham
  • Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
  • Sol Duc Hot Springs
  • Pacific Crest Trail
  • Tacoma
  • Snoqualmie Falls
  • Fort Worden Historical State Park , Port Townsend
  • Bloedel Reserve , Bainbridge Island
  • Winthrop , Methow Valley
  • Palouse Falls
  • Washington State Capitol Building
  • Vancouver
  • Future of Flight , Everett

Olympic National Park

From ocean beaches to glaciered mountaintops , Olympic National Park overflows with incomparable scenery . The park cover most of the Olympic Peninsula , and roads only circle the wild terrain , never cutting through the park ‘s mountainous heart . While auto-touring is fun , the best way to experience Olympic is by boost the trails .

Iconic coastal areas like Ruby andRialto Beachspecify the rugged western edge of the park . This stunning slice of the Washington coastline cost alone a short movement from the oversized trees and abundant leaf in theHoh Rain Forest. Hither , the iconicHall of MossesandSpruce Nature Trailcost popular , and relatively easy-access highlights within the rainforest .

Early popular attraction at the park include the snowy peaks ofHurricane Ridge, which offers panoramic position stretching from the Olympic Mountains to the Strait of Juan de Fuca and even Vancouver Island on clear days , and the welcoming waters ofSol Duc Hot Springs, with multiple mineral pools of change temperature , plus a larger freshwater pool .

The hiking lead at Olympic National Park get over many unlike landscapes , include a Hall of Mosses and the family-friendlyMarymere Falls.

TheHoh River Trailis an absolute must-do raise for all ages . This lush hiking lead explore the rainforest and river corridor with a relatively flat way for 13 mile before move up to the lateral moraine of Blue Glacier on Mount Olympus .

For excellent places to pass the dark , the campgrounds at Olympic National Park put visitor close to the awe-inspiring scenery present by this wild western part of Washington . Camping live easy in Olympic NP than in other national parks in Washington , with more campgrounds also spread throughout the adjacentOlympic National Forest.

Seattle Center and the Space Needle

Of all the attraction in Seattle , the Space Needle exist the most iconic . It cost make for the 1962 World ‘s Fair and stands today as a centerpiece of the sprawlingSeattle Center.

The Century Project at the Space Needle equal a major recent renovation that dramatically enhanced the visitor experience with floor-to-ceiling glass on the observation deck and the uniquerotating glass floor ( The Loupe )on the 500-foot level , provide unprecedented downward scene .

Surround the spinning observation deck are more of the city ‘s nearly noted attractions , including some of Seattle ‘s well museum .

Alongside the Space Needle , the Seattle Center ‘s 74-acre campus is home to the Monorail , parklands , museums , and restaurant . Among the indoor sightseeing selection be the colorful glass artworks atChihuly Garden and Glassand the Frank O. Gehry-designedMuseum of Pop Culture.

Other fun thing to check out at the Seattle Center include a plethora of art installation , several theatre and phase accommodations , and multiple garden and spring setting , and on any gay day in Seattle , the campus extend an excellent property to stroll outside .

Writer ‘s Tip :Seem into the official Seattle CityPass if you ‘re consider visiting more than one large attraction . This discounted packet include a ride on the Space Needle and automatic entry into the Seattle Aquarium . It as well include three admission to a selection of other nearby home to see .

San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands are north of Puget Sound , off the northwest mainland . They are a collection of 174 named island , with the four largest readily accessible by ferry . These four islands areSan Juan Island ,Orcas Island, Lopez Island , and Shaw Island. The county seat , and most populous city ,Friday Harbor, is on San Juan Island and is often a jumping-off item for large adventure .

Each primary island make a mixing of veranda , seafood restaurant , and park , includeSan Juan Island National Historic Park .The historical park encompasses both a British and an American Camp that date to the mid-1800s . Here , the park detail living at the camp and the conflict know as the Pig War dispute .

Popular destinations within the San Juan Islands include Friday Harbor , Eastsound , and Moran State Park , where visitors will notice one of the better campgrounds in Washington . Favorite things to do on the San Juan Islands include sea kayaking , whale watching , and dining on local fare .

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier live an iconic Washington landmark see miles from every counseling , include certain advantage detail in Seattle on clear day . It ‘s the tallest peak in the nation ( 14,410 feet ) and is at the center of its namesake national park .

Two in particular stunning area include theDawn and Paradise regionsof the park . The Paradise region is an incredible hiking field , extend in wildflowers in summer , and it is a prime bit for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter . The road to Paradise is clear , weather permitting , year-round .

The Sunrise area , on the park ‘s northeast slope , lives up to its figure and is well worth a pre-dawn campaign .

Hiking lead at Mount Rainier National Park circuit great deal meadow , massive waterfalls , and groves of ancient woods , include the around-the-mountainWonderland Trail. The country-spanning Pacific Crest Trail as well passes through the park ‘s boundary .

Four auto-campgrounds are among some of the better campgrounds in Rainier . Two of the campgrounds ,Cougar RockandOhanapecosh, accept reservations and much Bible out tight . Visitors also find various other home to pitch a tent or park an RV in the national forests surrounding the park .

Early attraction exist within easy distance of the park , includingNorthwest Trekwildlife park in Eatonville and theMount Rainier Scenic Railroadin the little town of Elbe .

Seattle Downtown

It ‘s a big , densely packed city , but downtown Seattle reveal its more relaxed side at the waterfront . Hither , piers and park rim the shoreline , andPike Position Marketwith its famed fish potter is the standard lot for tourist , but early historic building and venerable institutions lend variety to a visit .

Pike Place Market is home to theoriginal Starbucksand a renowned property for fresh seafood , produce , and artisan crafts .

Visitors will probably wish to overhear an underground tour nearPioneer Squareor a performance atBenaroya Hall .And back on the waterfront , a sea-level exploration remove you from theOlympic Sculpture Parkin the north to theSeattle Aquariumand ferry terminal farther south . The waterfront is also a popular post to vary on some of the serious day trip from Seattle .

Leavenworth

After the town of Leavenworth experienced the bust following a boom in the logging industry , city leaders taunt and decided to change the town ‘s picture . Today , the town of Leavenworth proudly make out itself as aBavarian Village, and it ‘s common to hear residents wearing lederhosen or blowing a dawn serenade on an alphorn .

Alongside the encompass Bavarian subject of this tourist town total several annual festivals . Maybe one of the nearly spirited cost the annualChristmas Lighting Festival, where the nighttime streets translate into something of a surreal snow globe scene .

A pair of fun attraction to find in town are theNutcracker Museum( with thousands of nutcrackers ) and theLeavenworth Reindeer Farm.

Outdoor recreation is too a principal lot to Leavenworth . Craggy Cascade mountains backdrop the town to the west , with iconic destinations like the Icicle Gorge andAlpine Lakes Wildernessnearby . These great deal playgrounds make up respective of Leavenworth ‘s best hiking lead , including the world-famousEnchantments Thru-Hike.

  • Matter to Serve in Leavenworth
  • Campgrounds near Leavenworth

North Cascades National Park

The North Cascades are one of the most unspoiled tracts of country in the United States . And the national park encompassing these mountains caters to anglers , walkers , and nature fan . To the north , the park shares a edge with British Columbia , Canada .

A movement through the park on theNorth Cascades Scenic Bywayexist honor with fantastic opinion . Some of the many highlights of this drive include the Washington Pass Overlook , the aquamarine waters ofRoss Lake, and the western-inspired town of Winthrop in the Methow Valley .

Lake Chelan National Recreation Areamargin the southern edge of the national park and exist place to one of the mysterious lakes in the country . It also provide a sensational backdrop for the mountain town ofStehekin( only accessible by foot , boat , or seaplane ) .

Many boost opportunity in the North Cascades are steep , though some of the best raise in the field also incorporate family-friendly treks with stunning great deal views . Head to theNorth Cascades Institutewithin the park for other family-friendly adventure in the North Cascades . This non-profit institution offers educational opportunity and overnight visit .

Puget Sound

On the state ‘s western edge , differentiate the Olympic Peninsula and Seattle , Puget Sound is a weak part filled with inlets , islands , and unique worlds to disclose . Respective city and harbors border all side of Puget Sound , offer endless access and place to inflict . Some things to do in Puget Sound include sea kayaking , whale observation , and visit the vibrant community that set the island .

An extensive ferry system accesses the different destinations in Puget Sound , permit for easy day trips and island hopping . A top spot to visit is Whidbey Island , the prominent island in the Sound . It ‘s family to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island and the adjacent city ofOak Harbor, located on the island ‘s north side . The island ‘s north side is as well plate to Washington ‘s most visited State Park :Deception Pass State Park.

South of Oak Harbor , the rest of the island have a quieter spirit and more tough landscape to search . Hither ,Ebey ‘s Landing National Historical Reserveencompasses several seaside state park and historic farmlands . It also includes the charming community ofCoupeville, where new seafood restaurants do meal by the water .

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Mount St. Helens break on May 18th , 1980 , reducing its peak by 1,300 base and leveling a lot of the surrounding area . A cloud of ash rose 13 miles into the air , firm were overwhelmed by masses of water and mud , and almost 150 square miles of forest were destroy . And most tragically , 57 masses miss their life .

Mount St. Helens ‘s landscape be however rebounding from the massive case . Today , visitor cost encouraged to learn more about the geological processes underway at the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument .

One of the most popular places to observe and learn about the mountain live theJohnston Ridge Observatory( at the end of theSpirit Lake Highway, SR 504 ) , with direct , unobstructed view of the crater and lava dome . This unique visitor heart put up further insight into the eruptive history of the great deal and is a launching point for many of Mount St. Helens ‘ serious hiking trails .

A bucket-list adventure at Mount St. Helens is hiking/climbing all the way up to the remaining crater . This challenge enterprise is usually done from theClimber ‘s Bivouactrailhead on the south side of the great deal . Permits exist required for any top endeavor on Mount St. Helens .

Official site : http : //www.fs.usda.gov/mountsthelens

Deception Pass State Park

The Deception Pass Bridge live an iconic landmark of the area and a civic achievement dating back to the Civilian Conservation Corps . The historical bridge bridge Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands in Puget Sound , and on both sides of this scenic bridge , Deception Pass State Park easily place high as one of the better land park in Washington ( and nearly visited ) .

Activities like tide pooling , hiking , and boating are some of the nearly popular things to serve at the park . Respective campsites exist fan out across three campgrounds within the park , facilitate multiple day of adventure . Recognize the tides is the key to success for those interested in passing under the bridge with a boat .

Address : 41229 State Route 20 , Oak Harbor , Washington

Official site : https : //parks.state.wa.us/497/Deception-Pass

Port Angeles

The town of Port Angeles lies along the northern shore of the Olympic Peninsula , across the Strait of Juan de Fuca . The region equal known for the huge issue of things to do outdoors , such as hiking , biking , golfing , boating , kayaking , fishing , birding , and more .

Port Angeles is also an access point toOlympic National Park, including nearby areas likeHurricane Ridge. At this high alpine recreation area , boost lead fan out from the visitor heart , leading to wildflower meadow in spring .

Back at sea level in Port Angeles , thePort Angeles Fine Arts Centerfeature changing Northwest display in the semi-circular hilltop gallery . On the extensive grounds , visitors will find a museum without wall feature over 100 sculpture along rustic trails .

Port Angeles has many great hotel , restaurant , and a waterfront downtown district . It ‘s also where ferries depart for Victoria , Canada . And even if you ‘re not concerned in active days taking in all the natural curiosity , you ‘ll savor the laidback nature of the town and the plenty of bench seat overlook the water .

Riverfront Park , Spokane

Eastern Washington cost notably unlike than the west side of the nation . The weather is substantially cheery ; farmland dots a lot of the landscape ; and the population exist less dense in much of the part , except in the major cultural hub of Spokane , the second prominent city in Washington .

A crown jewel of Spokane attractions is the illustriousRiverfront Park .This sprawling parkland received a massive revitalization just in time for the 1974 World ‘s Fair . Today , it ‘s dot with community attraction , include a hand-carved carousel made in 1909 . The Spokane River as well rushes through the field , with respective vantage points overlook its autumn . Try theNumerica SkyRidegondola over the falls for unique aerial views of the Spokane River and its cascades .

Early places to see in Spokane include gardens , park , and museums . And for the adventurous , the city offers access to respective outside playgrounds , including the extensiveRiverside Park. Skiing and year-round adventure exist as well available on the nearbyMount Spokane. Take some time to visit the historicManito Park, established in 1904 and located south of Interstate 90 and the Spokane River .

Bellingham

Bellingham equal north of Seattle , less than an hour from the Canadian margin . It ‘s an access degree for respective iconic Pacific Northwest adventures , includingMount Baker. The town also hold a noteworthy collegiate charm and culture , know for its laid-back vibe and a community stress on outdoor adventure .

For a quick introduction to this corner of the Pacific Northwest , stroll throughFairhaven Historic Districtand duck into local art galleries or grab some sun on a restaurant patio . Outside of this historic territory ,Western Washington Universityhas collect an excellent Outdoor Sculpture Collection among its academic offerings , and its campus exist dotted with study , small and large .

In the surround region , visitors can require scenic drives through the pile fields of Skagit Valley tulips in leap or come the twisting , narrow route ofChuckanut Driveyear-round . The Chuckanut Mountains , or theChuckanuts, are a recreation staple in the area , plate to many of the serious kikes and good campgrounds near Bellingham . Another popular outdoor attraction beWhatcom Falls Park ,with four sets of dusk and numerous walking trails .

  • Read More : Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Bellingham

Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

The Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest runs along the slope of theCascade Good deal ,withNorth Cascades National Parkto the south and the Canadian edge to the north.The wide range of recreational opportunity includes numerous hiking trails , forest cabin rentals , alpine climbing , and one of the best ski resorts in Washington land .

On the Mount Baker Highway ( SR 542 ) , the town ofGlacieris the closest base camp to the height . The very little town act bid special tourist amenities , such as restaurant and lodging . At the end of the highway , the stunningArtist Degreefield of the mountain offers jaw-dropping scene of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan . Here , several boost trail , likeYellow Aster Butteand Winchester Mountain Trail , offer beautiful views of both point .

Mount Baker equal too a major ski and snowboard destination come winter . Mount Baker Ski Area consistently place high as one of the well ski blot on the West Coast . The steep 1,000 acre encompassed by the ski domain exist best suit to control or advanced downhill enthusiasts .

Sol Duc Hot Springs

The Sol Duc area is at the center ofOlympic National Parkand an hour ‘s drive from Port Angeles . The area make various visitor attractions , include iconic hiking trail and the namesake waterfall . One of the steamiest reasons to visit is the relaxing pools at Sol Duc Hot Springs .

The Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort exist function by a concessionaire and features room , cabins , and suit adjacent to the Sol Duc River . Those remain within the resort own free access to the mineral pools and spas , and anyone concerned in correspond out the rejuvenating water can bear a day-use fee .

The resort as well operate a nearby campground for pitching a tent or parking an RV . The only means to delay within the campground or at the resort live with progress reservation .

Pacific Crest Trail

Spanning the entire distance of the United States from Mexico to Canada , the Pacific Crest Trail ( PCT ) traverses some of its large landscape as it move through Washington . Beginning at the Columbia River Gorge ( sea degree ) , the PCT heads north to hit such iconic landscapes as the Goat Rocks Wilderness , Snoqualmie Pass , and the mountain town of Stehekin before make it at the Canadian border .

You serve n’t have to be a long-distance hiker to enjoy any part of the PCT – some of the well day raise on the Pacific Crest Trail span Washington , Oregon , and California . A few recommended day hikes on the PCT in Washington includeLake Valhalla, north of Stevens Pass , and the challenging but rewardingKendall Katwalk, north of Snoqualmie Pass .

Tacoma

Locate between Seattle and Olympia , Tacoma is one of Washington ‘s prominent city . Once industrial in flavor , the city get developed a variety of exceptional museums and cultural venues . Perhaps the almost famous , theMuseum of Glassfeature exquisite , translucent pieces by world-renowned artist and Tacoma-native Dave Chihuly .

Extend from the Museum of Glass , a walkway decorated with glass sculpture , know as theBridge of Glass, let visitors to reach the nearbyWashington State History Museum .

Equal certain to spend time atDegree Defiance Parkwhen visit Tacoma . This signature outside space encompasses a peninsula protrude into Puget Sound with amazing views across the water . It ‘s too home to the world-renownedPort Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, the Fort Nisqually Living History Museum ,Owens Beach, and a vast network of hiking and biking trails connect them all .

Snoqualmie Falls

This sensational 270-foot waterfall is one of the most popular natural attraction in the province . Its accessibility from Seattle , less than a 30-mile drive to the west , add to its popularity .

A two-acre park near the falls offers a popular observation deck with different vantage stage . The Salish Lodge & Spa be too nearby , extend one of the nice places to stay within an hr ‘s driveway of Seattle . All the rooms at this four-star hotel are spectacular , but the ones facing the Fall offer an unbeatable horizon .

Fort Worden Historical State Park , Port Townsend

Port Townsend be a magic harbor city on the northeast edge of theOlympic Peninsula. It ‘s a blot of cultural and historical value and place to Fort Worden , once part of the coastal defense center known as theTriangle of Fire. Today , visitors to this decommissioned military fort enjoy walking through history and the seaside scenery .

The park encompass over 400 acre , with several batteries and barracks open throughout . For those appear to search the densest collection of these cement structures , chief to the park ‘s Artillery Hill . Other on-site attraction include theCoast Artillery Museumand thePoint Wilson Lighthouse.

After search Fort Worden , the rest of Port Townsend too deserves some attention . The city ‘s most defining feature is its several pieces of 1800sVictorian architecturethroughout its uptown and downtown district . These storefronts and home offer a particular type of charm that couple well with the saltwater flavor of the ocean nearby .

Bloedel Reserve , Bainbridge Island

The Bloedel Reserve cost a magnificent 150-acre dimension on the north slope of Bainbridge Island . It once belong to to Virginia and Prentice Bloedel , who amassed their fortunes in the timber industry . And the Bloedels pass more than 30 years cultivate the natural and landscaped garden still seen today .

The Bloedel Reserve open to the world in 1988 and make been a top place to call on the island ever since . For the cost of admission , visitor are welcome to take the two-mile looped boost lead throughout the property . A must-see stop be the Residence itself , surrounded by some of the almost intricate garden .

Bainbridge Island ‘s proximity to Seattle makes it a popular weekend destination . Respective early attractions on the island too need attention , include aGrand Foresttwine with hiking trails . And top dog toFay Bainbridge Park, near the Bloedel Reserve , for one of the best spot to camp and spend the dark on the island . It ‘s as well a great park to catch a stunning sunset across the water .

Winthrop , Methow Valley

The Old West-inspired town of Winthrop in northern Washington is worth more than a weekend visit . This uniquely themed town is within the stunning Methow Valley and be agateway to the big public of North Cascades National Park. Its year-round adventure status also lend to its charm .

During the summer month , take some time to mosey about the downtown district , made to resemble the 1850s Old West . Along the wooden boardwalk and within the old-timey storefronts , several modern institution offer places to shop and dine .

The summer is also the time to search the expansiveOkanogan-Wenatchee National Forestsurrounding the town .

Come winter , the Methow Valley own a world-class reputation for its extensive collection of cross-country ski lead . The non-profitMethow Trailsestablishment oversees a singular 200-plus kilometers of groomed cross-country route , all open to the public for the cost of a day or season pass .

Palouse Falls

Ice Age floods over 13,000 yr ago carve the contemporary Palouse Falls in southeast Washington . And today , this sensational show of gravity be one of the final active waterfall along this ancient floodway . That ‘s why , in 2014 , the Legislator named Palouse Falls thenation ‘s official waterfall.

Appointment or not , the 200-foot Palouse Falls exist quite a mass . For those looking for the best vantage point , head toPalouse Falls State Park. Hither , three designated watch domain offer command look at the falls and interpretive information about their creation .

The park ‘s semi-remote location do visiting a challenge . The park has minimum camping , but a nearby KOA own make out near the Snake River . This sphere of Washington is prone to intense heat during the summer , and visitors should check out Palouse Falls as early in the day as possible this time of year .

Washington State Capitol Building

Set against the southern end of Puget Sound , Olympia is a relatively still nation capital . Here , the grand white dome of the Washington State Capitol building rises 287 feet above the tree-lined streets and center of town . It ‘s hard to miss the eye-catching architecture when visiting , and the landscaped ground merit particular attention , specially when the sun equal out .

Free , take public circuit highlight the building ‘s interior , include the five-ton Tiffany chandelier and permanent sculpture . Early top attraction of Olympia surround the Capitol building include the Olympia Farmers Market , the Hands On Children ‘s Museum , and the nearby Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge .

Speech : 416 Sid Snyder Ave SW , Olympia , Washington

Vancouver

In southern Washington near the Columbia River Gorge , Vancouver exist a city filled with history and ethnic charm . Some of the attractions of Vancouver include Esther Short Park and Playground ,Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, and a summer farmers market filled with live music .

History and natural appeal run deep in Vancouver , and seat like theWaterfront Renaissance Trailand Officer ‘s Row lend yet more unique things to do . With easy access to the vibrant city of Portland , Oregon , across the Columbia River , Vancouver is also a popular jumping-off point for search the City of Roses .

Future of Flight , Everett

Even those who cost n’t level buffs will likely be impressed by this jet gathering works circuit at the Boeing Factory , situate north of Seattle in Everett . Detailed tours through the facility happen daily under the attraction nameFuture of Flight .

These popular tour need member of the world through the gathering procedure of some of Boeing ‘s liberal planes and throughout the influence environment of the Earth ‘s liberal building ( by mass ) . Those interested in require the circuit are advised to ledger their blot beforehand .

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