The Emerald City is a true cosmopolitan delight, but even the most steadfast of Seattleites need to get away from the big city once in a while. Luckily, Seattle is completely surrounded by a fantastic collection unique places outside for a short or long getaway.
Take a breather from the stress of the hustle and bustle, and head to these amazing Washington State vacation spots. I’ve rounded up the best weekend getaways from Seattle.
San Juan Islands
It’s hard to believe that such a scenic group of islands nestled in the heart of San Juan de Fuca inland water system is so close to the bustling urban city of Seattle. When you arrive by plane or ferry to the San Juans it is as though you have entered another world. Island life (and island time) rules here, so if you are expecting lots of activity, better pick another spot.
How to get there from Seattle: Hop on I-5 North up to Anacortes, then follow the signs to the ferry terminal. Or go big and charter a pane.
Speaking of Anacortes…
Anacortes and Deception Pass
This is another way to appreciate Washington State’s incredible nature and waterways, while also enjoying small town life. Anacortes may be the gateway to the San Juans, but don’t treat it as just a pass-through town. Nearby Rosario Beach is a great way to relax. Predators of the Heart is an exotic animal refuge set on 10 acres of old-growth forest land, and tours are given weekdays. For history buffs, the Maritime Heritage Center offers museum exhibits related to the area shoreline activities. Further south, don’t miss Washington’s best state park, Deception Pass. Here you’ll find a plethora of tide pooling opportunities, great hiking, and scenic vistas.
How to get to Deception Pass from Anacortes: Take I-5 N, then Hwy 20 west. This highway will eventually fork north and south: with Anacortes to the north and Deception Pass to the south. The trip is about 1.5 hours.
Mount Rainier
The highest peak in Washington State and where snow bunnies, backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts collide. No matter the time of year, Mt. Rainier has something for everyone. All levels of hikers will appreciate the many and varied trails, and the town of Paradise will satiate your shopping, eating, and relaxing desires.
How to get there from Seattle: Take I-5 South down through Tacoma, then hook onto Hwy 512, which connects to Hwy 7, From there, take Hwy 706 to the Mt. Rainier area. About 2.5 hours total.
Victoria, B.C.
One of my favorite trips from Seattle, simply because you get to ride the ferry to another country (which is an experience in itself) and visit a charming city. Victoria is a good-sized town, but everything you would want to experience is located just steps from the water as you deboard the ferry. You don’t even need a car when you visit Victoria, unless you want to explore Vancouver Island further.
How to get there from Seattle: The best way is to take the Clipper ferries, which leaves right from Seattle waterfront. You can buy roundtrip packages for same day or multiple days. Don’t forget your passport! Or if you’re in the mood to splurge, direct flights are always available.
North Cascades and Mount Baker
If it’s true backcountry wilderness you crave, this is the place to explore. Mount Baker doesn’t get much love as it is often overshadowed by the more illustrious Mt. Rainier, and it is a mistake many visitors make. With tons of hiking trails, camping, and other outdoor activities, Mount Baker should never be overlooked. Check out my blog post here about my trip to the North Cascades.
How to get there from Seattle: Take I-5 North to Mt, Vernon, then hook onto Highway 20. To access the Park Butte Trailhead near Mt. Baker, from Hwy 20 get off on Baker Lane Rd to NF-13 in Whatcom County.
Small Towns in Puget Sound
These great towns offer a quaint charm all their own, with their unique setting along the majestic waters of Puget Sound, where fishing is king. Think amazing small-town main street shopping, the freshest seafood restaurants, down-home burgers & brews, not to mention the warmth and hospitality of small town PNW residents.
How to get there from Seattle: Take I-5 South to Tacoma, then hook onto Highway 16.
Olympic National Park
America’s only temperate rainforest, this national park is tucked neatly into a peninsula in southwestern Washington. Highway 101 circumvents the entire park and peninsula, with the interior of the park a vast and remote woodland, with very few roads. Hike through old growth mossy forest, explore the vast and majestic coastline, and hike up a mountain that has seemingly leapt from The Sound of Music. This is black bear country, and wildlife abounds. Most visitors stick to near the perimeter, but hardy backpackers know better – the good stuff can be found off dirt roads and on foot.
How to get there from Seattle: There are a couple of ways. 1) Take the ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island, then take Highway 305 N, then Hwy 3 N, then Hwy 104, which will take you to Highway 101. This way is a little over 2.5 hours to Port Angeles, which is the main town visitors stay. Or 2) Take I-5 S to Tacoma, then Hwy 16, then Hwy 302, then Hwy 106, which will take you to Hwy 101. This way is about 2.5 hours. Plan for longer if you are staying in Port Angeles.
Leavenworth, WA
You don’t have to fly from Sea-Tac to Europe to get an authentic taste of the real German lifestyle. This Bavarian town in Central Washington has a downtown area that is all German, all the time. Come during the summer months and you will be able to attend German-based festivals, and other outdoor activities. Shop for Christmas all year round at the Yuletide gift shop, then have an authentic German meal at the local restaurant. Or if you want something a bit lighter, have a bratwurst with all of the fixings and wash it down with German craft beer. Come the autumn, you can be sure their Oktoberfest is a blast!
How to get there from Seattle: Taki I-90 east and then hook on to Highway 970 east, then Hwy 97 north. The drive is a little over two hours.
Wine Tasting in Yakima
Southcentral Washington’s farmland is fertile with grapes and fruit orchards galore. This is where most of America’s apple supply comes from, and the grapes produce world-renowned, award-winning wines. Lovers of the grape can certainly fill an entire weekend with wine tasting alone, as there are dozens of wineries to tour. But even if wine tasting ain’t your thing, there is plenty to see and do in this region.
How to get there from Seattle: This is a good trip to combine with your Leavenworth trip. Take I-90 east, then hook onto I-82 south. It’s a little over 2 hours’ drive to the town of Yakima, with wineries all around.
Bellingham and the Chuckanut Loop
Bellingham is the northernmost city in the state, and gateway into Canada. This town is also known for its great beer scene – there are five local breweries in town. The charming downtown area is full of great shops and restaurants. Then explore Chuckanut loop; a winding road where you will find rustic barns, blueberry farms and pristine meadows. Stop in the tiny town of Edison for an incredible lunch at Tweets. Order your lunch to go, then head to Larrabee State park to have a picnic lunch.
How to get there from Seattle: Taki I-5 North and it’s a straight shot up directly to Bellingham. Then to get on the loop, take Highway 11 for your leisurely drive south.
1 Comment
Wonderful place to go! Thanks for sharing the informative post.