Washington State, located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. From the rugged coastline to the snow-capped mountains, and from the scenic islands to the bustling metropolises, Washington State has something to offer for every kind of traveler. In this article, we’ll explore the 10 Must See Places In Washington State, which showcase the state’s unique blend of natural wonders, urban attractions, and cultural landmarks.
1. Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park, located on the Olympic Peninsula, is one of the most diverse national parks in the United States. It features glacier-capped mountains, old-growth rainforests, and over 70 miles of coastline. Visitors can hike through the Hoh Rainforest, explore the tidepools at Kalaloch Beach, or climb to the summit of Mount Olympus. With its unique combination of rugged coastline, temperate rainforests, and mountain peaks, Olympic National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Must-Do Activities:
- Hike the Hurricane Ridge Trail for breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains
- Explore the tidepools at Kalaloch Beach and spot marine life
- Camp under the stars in the park’s backcountry
2. Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market, located in Seattle, is one of the oldest and largest farmers’ markets in the United States. It’s a bustling hub of activity, featuring fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local handicrafts. Visitors can sample local specialties, watch fishmongers in action, and explore the historic stalls and shops. With its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic mix of vendors, Pike Place Market is a must-visit destination for foodies and shopaholics.
Must-Try Foods:
- Fresh Dungeness crab at Pike Place Fish Co.
- Artisanal cheeses at Beecher’s Handmade Cheese
- Local brews at Pike Brewing Company
3. San Juan Islands
The San Juan Islands, located off the coast of Washington State, are a tranquil archipelago of islands, known for their stunning natural beauty and wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can kayak through the islands’ calm waters, spot orcas and seals, and explore the charming island towns. With their laid-back atmosphere and picturesque landscapes, the San Juan Islands are a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation.
Must-Do Activities:
- Take a whale-watching tour to spot orcas and other marine life
- Kayak through the islands’ calm waters and spot seals and sea lions
- Explore the charming island towns and visit the local farmers’ markets
4. Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park, located about an hour southeast of Seattle, is a stunning national park featuring glaciers, subalpine meadows, and old-growth forests. Visitors can hike through the park’s many trails, climb to the summit of Mount Rainier, or explore the park’s scenic drives. With its majestic mountain peaks and diverse landscapes, Mount Rainier National Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. (See Also: Must See Places In Washington)
Must-Do Activities:
- Hike the Wonderland Trail, a 93-mile circumnavigation of Mount Rainier
- Climb to the summit of Mount Rainier for breathtaking views
- Explore the park’s scenic drives and spot wildlife
5. Leavenworth
Leavenworth, a small town located in the Cascade Mountains, is a charming Bavarian-themed village, complete with cobblestone streets, German-style architecture, and traditional Bavarian cuisine. Visitors can stroll through the town’s quaint shops and restaurants, attend a traditional German festival, or explore the surrounding mountains and forests. With its unique blend of German culture and Pacific Northwest charm, Leavenworth is a must-visit destination for families and couples.
Must-Try Foods:
- Traditional German sausages at München Haus
- Apple strudel at the Leavenworth Bakery
- German-style beer at the Icicle Brewing Company
6. North Cascades National Park
North Cascades National Park, located in the northern part of the state, is a lesser-known national park featuring rugged mountains, glaciers, and turquoise lakes. Visitors can hike through the park’s many trails, take a boat tour of Lake Chelan, or explore the park’s scenic drives. With its stunning mountain scenery and diverse landscapes, North Cascades National Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Must-Do Activities:
- Hike the Chain Lakes Trail for breathtaking views of the North Cascades
- Take a boat tour of Lake Chelan and spot wildlife
- Explore the park’s scenic drives and spot glaciers
7. Chihuly Garden and Glass
Chihuly Garden and Glass, located in Seattle, is a unique attraction featuring the stunning glass artwork of Dale Chihuly in an indoor-outdoor setting. Visitors can explore the exhibit’s eight galleries, watch live glassblowing demonstrations, and stroll through the beautiful gardens. With its breathtaking artwork and serene atmosphere, Chihuly Garden and Glass is a must-visit destination for art lovers and families.
Must-See Exhibits:
- The Glasshouse, featuring Chihuly’s largest suspended sculpture
- The Garden, featuring Chihuly’s artwork amidst beautiful flora
- The Exhibit Galleries, featuring Chihuly’s most iconic works
8. Spokane Falls
Spokane Falls, located in the city of Spokane, is a stunning natural attraction featuring a 155-foot waterfall in the heart of the city. Visitors can walk across the falls on the SkyRide, explore the surrounding Riverfront Park, or take a scenic drive along the Spokane River. With its natural beauty and urban charm, Spokane Falls is a must-visit destination for families and couples. (See Also: What Are Must See Places In Italy)
Must-Do Activities:
- Take a ride on the SkyRide for breathtaking views of the falls
- Explore the Riverfront Park and spot wildlife
- Take a scenic drive along the Spokane River and spot scenic overlooks
9. Fort Worden State Park
Fort Worden State Park, located in Port Townsend, is a unique state park featuring a former military base turned into a park. Visitors can explore the park’s many trails, visit the Fort Worden Lighthouse, or take a scenic drive along the coast. With its rich history and natural beauty, Fort Worden State Park is a must-visit destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts.
Must-Do Activities:
- Explore the park’s many trails and spot wildlife
- Visit the Fort Worden Lighthouse and take in the stunning views
- Take a scenic drive along the coast and spot scenic overlooks
10. The Museum of Flight
The Museum of Flight, located in Seattle, is a world-class museum featuring a vast collection of aircraft and spacecraft. Visitors can explore the museum’s many exhibits, including the Space Exhibit, the Air Force One Exhibit, and the World War I Exhibit. With its rich history and interactive exhibits, The Museum of Flight is a must-visit destination for families and aviation enthusiasts.
Must-See Exhibits:
- The Space Exhibit, featuring the Apollo 11 command module
- The Air Force One Exhibit, featuring a retired Air Force One plane
- The World War I Exhibit, featuring vintage aircraft and artifacts
In conclusion, Washington State is a treasure trove of natural beauty, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. From the rugged coastline to the snow-capped mountains, and from the scenic islands to the bustling metropolises, Washington State has something to offer for every kind of traveler. The 10 Must See Places In Washington State showcased in this article are just a few examples of the state’s many attractions, and we hope that this article has inspired you to plan your next trip to Washington State. (See Also: Must See Places In Portland Oregon)
People Also Ask:
Q: What is the best time to visit Washington State?
A: The best time to visit Washington State depends on your preferences. Summer is the peak
