Best Places to Visit in Washington | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Washington Travel Guide
Quick overview of Washington with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Washington, USA, a state known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, and rich history. Located in the Pacific Northwest region, Washington offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. From the iconic Space Needle in Seattle to the breathtaking landscapes of Olympic National Park, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the vibrant art scene in Tacoma, visit the historic Pike Place Market, or embark on a scenic drive along the Cascade Loop. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a food lover, Washington has it all. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of this captivating state.
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Best Places To Visit in Washington
1. Seattle: Known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and thriving tech industry, Seattle is a must-visit city in Washington. Explore the iconic Space Needle, wander through the lively Pike Place Market, and take a stroll along the picturesque waterfront. Don't forget to indulge in the city's famous coffee culture and try some delicious seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants.
2. Olympia: As the capital of Washington, Olympia offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Visit the Washington State Capitol Building and take a guided tour to learn about the state's political history. Explore the beautiful Capitol Lake Park or go hiking in the nearby Capitol State Forest. Don't miss the chance to visit the Hands On Children's Museum, which offers interactive exhibits for kids of all ages.
3. Spokane: Nestled in the eastern part of Washington, Spokane is a charming city with a rich history and stunning natural surroundings. Explore Riverfront Park, which features a beautiful waterfall, walking trails, and a vintage carousel. Visit the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture to learn about the region's indigenous history and art. If you're a fan of outdoor activities, Spokane offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and skiing in the nearby mountains.
4. Leavenworth: Known as Washington's Bavarian village, Leavenworth is a picturesque town that transports visitors to a charming European setting. Stroll through the town's Bavarian-style streets, lined with unique shops, restaurants, and beer gardens. Don't miss the annual Oktoberfest celebration, where you can enjoy traditional German music, food, and beer. Surrounding Leavenworth, you'll find beautiful hiking trails, wineries, and stunning mountain views.
5. Tacoma: Located just south of Seattle, Tacoma is a vibrant city with a thriving arts and cultural scene. Visit the Museum of Glass, which showcases stunning glass art and offers live glassblowing demonstrations. Explore the Tacoma Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of American art. Take a walk along the Ruston Way waterfront and enjoy the stunning views of Puget Sound. Don't forget to try some of the city's delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood and craft beer.
6. Bellingham: Situated between the mountains and the sea, Bellingham is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and urban amenities. Explore the historic Fairhaven district, known for its quaint shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Take a stroll along Boulevard Park and enjoy the breathtaking views of Bellingham Bay. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the nearby Mount Baker, which offers excellent skiing, hiking, and mountain biking opportunities.
7. Port Townsend: With its well-preserved Victorian architecture and picturesque waterfront, Port Townsend is a delightful town to visit in Washington. Explore the historic downtown area, filled with unique shops, art galleries, and charming cafes. Visit Fort Worden State Park, which offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and historic military structures. Don't miss the Port Townsend Marine Science Center, where you can learn about the region's marine life and participate in hands-on activities.
8. Walla Walla: Known for its world-class wineries and charming downtown area, Walla Walla is a hidden gem in Washington. Take a wine tour and indulge in tastings at some of the region's finest wineries. Explore the downtown area, filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and excellent restaurants. Don't miss the Whitman Mission National Historic Site, which commemorates the tragic events of the Oregon Trail. Walla Walla also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
9. Bellevue: Located just east of Seattle, Bellevue is a bustling city with a vibrant downtown area and beautiful parks. Shop at the upscale Bellevue Square Mall or explore the Bellevue Arts Museum, which showcases contemporary art and craft. Enjoy a picnic at the Bellevue Botanical Garden or take a walk along the scenic Lake Washington waterfront. Bellevue also offers excellent dining options, ranging from international cuisine to local farm-to-table restaurants.
10. Vancouver: Although technically in the neighboring state of Oregon, Vancouver is just a short drive from Washington and definitely worth a visit. Explore the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, which offers a glimpse into the region's fur trading past. Visit the Pearson Air Museum, which showcases the history of aviation in the Pacific Northwest. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Columbia River waterfront and take in the stunning views. Vancouver also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing in the nearby Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
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Food & Drinks To Try In Washington
1. Seattle-style hot dog: A must-try food in Washington is the Seattle-style hot dog. This delicious street food is topped with cream cheese, grilled onions, and sometimes even sauerkraut. It's a unique twist on a classic favorite.
2. Pacific Northwest seafood: Being located on the coast, Washington is known for its fresh and flavorful seafood. Don't miss out on trying dishes like Dungeness crab, wild salmon, and geoduck clams. Whether you enjoy them grilled, baked, or in a chowder, the seafood in Washington is a true delight.
3. Coffee: Washington is famous for its coffee culture, and Seattle is home to some of the most renowned coffee shops in the world. Take the opportunity to try a cup of locally roasted coffee from one of the many specialty cafes. Whether you prefer a classic drip coffee or a fancy latte, you won't be disappointed.
4. Apples: Washington is the largest apple-producing state in the United States, so it's no surprise that apples are a staple in the local cuisine. From sweet varieties like Honeycrisp to tart ones like Granny Smith, there's an apple for every taste. Don't forget to try some apple pie or cider during your visit.
5. Craft beer: Washington has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries scattered throughout the state. Take a brewery tour and sample some of the local brews, ranging from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. With so many options to choose from, beer enthusiasts will be in heaven.
6. Huckleberries: If you're visiting Washington during the summer months, make sure to try huckleberries. These small, tart berries grow wild in the mountains and are used in various desserts, jams, and sauces. They have a unique flavor that is worth experiencing.
7. Pho: Washington has a significant Vietnamese population, and as a result, you'll find excellent Vietnamese cuisine throughout the state. One dish that stands out is pho, a flavorful and aromatic noodle soup. Warm and comforting, it's perfect for a chilly day.
8. Washington wines: The state of Washington is known for its wine production, particularly its red wines. Take a trip to one of the many wineries in the region and sample some of the local vintages. From bold Cabernet Sauvignons to smooth Merlots, Washington wines are sure to impress.
9. Marionberries: Another berry worth trying in Washington is the marionberry. This hybrid berry is a cross between a blackberry and a raspberry, and it's known for its sweet and tangy flavor. Look for marionberry pies or jams to get a taste of this unique fruit.
10. Salmon candy: For a truly unique culinary experience, try some salmon candy. This traditional Native American treat consists of thinly sliced salmon that is cured with a sweet and savory glaze. It's a delicious and unexpected combination of flavors.
In summary, when visiting Washington, be sure to try the Seattle-style hot dog, indulge in the fresh seafood, explore the coffee culture, savor the local apples, sample the craft beers, taste the huckleberries and marionberries, enjoy a bowl of pho, sip on Washington wines, and experience the unique flavors of salmon candy.
Best Time To Visit Washington
The best time to visit Washington, USA is during the spring and fall seasons. In the spring, which is from April to June, the weather is mild and pleasant with blooming flowers and cherry blossoms. This is a great time to explore the National Mall and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking in Olympic National Park. In the fall, which is from September to November, the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a picturesque landscape. This is an ideal time to visit Mount Rainier National Park and go on scenic drives to witness the stunning fall colors. During these seasons, the temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C), making it perfect for outdoor exploration. Additionally, the crowds are generally smaller compared to the summer months, allowing for a more peaceful and enjoyable experience. However, it is important to note that Washington experiences rainfall throughout the year, so it is advisable to pack rain gear and be prepared for occasional showers.
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Transportation To Washington
There are several transportation options to Washington, USA. You can fly into one of the major airports in the area, such as Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), or Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). From there, you can take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or public transportation to your destination within Washington.
If you prefer to travel by train, you can take an Amtrak train to Union Station in Washington, D.C. This is a convenient option if you are coming from a nearby city or if you prefer a scenic train ride.
If you are driving, you can take the interstate highways that connect to Washington, such as Interstate 95, Interstate 495 (also known as the Capital Beltway), or Interstate 66. These highways provide easy access to the city and surrounding areas.
Additionally, there are bus services available that can take you to Washington from various locations. Companies such as Greyhound and Megabus offer routes to and from Washington, making it a cost-effective option for travel.
Once you are in Washington, there are also various transportation options within the city, including the Metro subway system, buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services.