When it comes to planning a trip to Washington state, many people tend to focus on the usual suspects: Seattle, the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the like. But Washington has so much more to offer beyond the major cities. From the rugged coastline to the rolling hills of the countryside, there are countless unique places to visit in Washington that are waiting to be discovered.
Get ultimate traveler plannerWashington state is home to a diverse range of landscapes, from the snow-capped mountains of the Olympic Peninsula to the arid deserts of Eastern Washington. And with its rich Native American history, pioneer settlements, and modern-day cities, there’s no shortage of fascinating places to explore. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to some of the most unique places to visit in Washington state, from the quirky to the breathtakingly beautiful.
Unique Natural Wonders
Washington state is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the country. From the rugged coastline to the snow-capped mountains, there’s no shortage of breathtaking scenery to take in.
The Olympic Coast
The Olympic Coast is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Stretching for over 70 miles, the coastline is characterized by towering cliffs, hidden coves, and pristine beaches. Be sure to check out the iconic Hole-in-the-Wall rock formation, as well as the stunning tidepools at Ruby Beach.
Other Natural Wonders to Visit
- Mount Rainier National Park: A must-visit destination for hikers and nature lovers, Mount Rainier National Park offers stunning views of the mountain, as well as opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.
- The San Juan Islands: Located off the coast of Washington state, the San Juan Islands are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Take a boat tour to spot orcas, seals, and other marine life.
- The Columbia River Gorge: A scenic drive along the Columbia River Gorge offers stunning views of the river and surrounding cliffs. Be sure to stop at Vista House, a historic observatory with panoramic views of the gorge.
- The North Cascades National Park: For a more rugged and remote wilderness experience, head to the North Cascades National Park. Hike through the dense forests, explore the glaciers, and spot wildlife like bears and mountain goats.
Quirky and Offbeat Attractions
Washington state is also home to a number of quirky and offbeat attractions that are sure to delight visitors. From the weird to the wonderful, these attractions are a must-see for anyone looking to experience the unique side of Washington state. (See Also: Unique Places To Visit In Atlanta? Off The Beaten Path)
The Museum of Pop Culture
Located in Seattle, the Museum of Pop Culture is a must-visit destination for music and pop culture enthusiasts. With exhibits on Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, and other Seattle musicians, as well as interactive exhibits on science fiction and fantasy, this museum is a fun and quirky way to spend an afternoon.
Other Quirky Attractions to Visit
- The Future of Flight Aviation Center and Boeing Tour: For a behind-the-scenes look at the world of aviation, head to the Future of Flight Aviation Center and Boeing Tour. Take a guided tour of the Boeing factory and learn about the history of flight.
- The LeMay – America’s Car Museum: Located in Tacoma, the LeMay – America’s Car Museum is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts. With over 300 cars on display, this museum is a fun and quirky way to spend an afternoon.
- The Seattle Pinball Museum: For a fun and quirky way to spend an afternoon, head to the Seattle Pinball Museum. With over 50 pinball machines to play, this museum is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves classic arcade games.
- The Ye Olde Curiosity Shop: Located in Seattle, the Ye Olde Curiosity Shop is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the weird and wonderful. With a collection of over 8,000 oddities and curiosities, this shop is a fun and quirky way to spend an afternoon.
Historic and Cultural Landmarks
Washington state is also home to a number of historic and cultural landmarks that are a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture. From the Native American reservations to the pioneer settlements, there’s no shortage of fascinating places to explore.
The Suquamish Museum
Located on the Kitsap Peninsula, the Suquamish Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Native American history and culture. With exhibits on the Suquamish tribe and their history, as well as a replica of Chief Seattle’s longhouse, this museum is a fascinating and educational way to spend an afternoon.
Other Historic and Cultural Landmarks to Visit
- The Fort Vancouver National Historic Site: Located in Vancouver, the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in pioneer history. With a reconstructed fur trading post and a museum, this site is a fascinating way to learn about the history of the region.
- The Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum: Located in Leavenworth, the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nutcrackers. With over 5,000 nutcrackers on display, this museum is a fun and quirky way to spend an afternoon.
- The Yakima Valley Museum: Located in Yakima, the Yakima Valley Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in local history and culture. With exhibits on the region’s Native American tribes, pioneer settlements, and modern-day culture, this museum is a fascinating way to learn about the region.
- The Washington State History Museum: Located in Tacoma, the Washington State History Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in state history. With exhibits on the region’s Native American tribes, pioneer settlements, and modern-day culture, this museum is a fascinating way to learn about the state’s rich history.
Conclusion
Washington state is a unique and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. From the rugged natural beauty of the Olympic Peninsula to the quirky attractions of Seattle, there’s no shortage of fascinating places to explore. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or the great outdoors, Washington state has something to offer. So why not start planning your trip today and discover the unique places to visit in Washington state for yourself? (See Also: Unique Places To Visit In Tasmania? Off The Beaten Path)
FAQs
What are the best places to visit in Washington state?
The best places to visit in Washington state depend on your interests and what you’re looking for. Some popular destinations include the Olympic Peninsula, the San Juan Islands, Mount Rainier National Park, and the Columbia River Gorge. If you’re interested in history and culture, be sure to check out the Suquamish Museum, the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, and the Washington State History Museum.
What are the most unique attractions in Washington state?
Some of the most unique attractions in Washington state include the Museum of Pop Culture, the Future of Flight Aviation Center and Boeing Tour, the LeMay – America’s Car Museum, and the Seattle Pinball Museum. These attractions offer a fun and quirky way to spend an afternoon and are a great way to experience the unique side of Washington state.
What are the best outdoor activities in Washington state?
Washington state offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, kayaking, and skiing. Some popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts include Mount Rainier National Park, the Olympic Peninsula, and the San Juan Islands. If you’re interested in wildlife spotting, be sure to check out the North Cascades National Park and the Columbia River Gorge.
What are the best restaurants in Washington state?
Washington state is known for its fresh seafood, particularly Dungeness crab and oysters. Some popular restaurants include the Pike Place Chowder in Seattle, the Oyster House in Seattle, and the Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar in Bellingham. If you’re looking for something more unique, be sure to check out the Ye Olde Curiosity Shop in Seattle, which offers a variety of quirky and offbeat souvenirs. (See Also: Unique Places To Visit In Washington State? Hidden Gems)
What are the best ways to get around Washington state?
The best ways to get around Washington state depend on your destination and what you’re looking for. Some popular options include driving, taking the bus, and flying. If you’re planning to visit the Olympic Peninsula or the San Juan Islands, be sure to check out the Washington State Ferries, which offer a convenient and scenic way to get around. If you’re planning to visit the North Cascades National Park, be sure to check out the North Cascades Highway, which offers a scenic drive through the park.
