9 of Washington’s Best Destinations

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Perhaps one of the greatest things about living in Kitsap County, WA is its convenient location to so many other fantastic places. Washington state is full of easy, weekend getaways. No need to hassle the airport chaos. Pack the car, load up the kids, and hit the road (and sometimes a ferry boat). It’s time to explore some of Washington’s best destinations.

Summer is just around the corner. Create a staycation summer bucket list for you and the family. Explore Mother Nature and all her glory with a trip to the Olympic National Park. Or head over to Seattle and take a ride on the Great Wheel and catch a fish at the world-famous Pike’s Market.

Even better-drive the scenic Cascade Loop out to the Bavarian town of Leavenworth. There are plenty of stops you can take along the way. Including a stop at Zeke’s Drive-In out in Goldbar. Or if you’ve got a sweet tooth, make sure to pick up some sweet pastries at Sultan’s Bakery.

Living in Kitsap County is beautiful, but don’t forget to take advantage of the other amazing getaways in Washington. Here’s a list of 9 destinations you need to add to your summer bucket list.

Washington’s Best Destinations

#1. Olympic National Park

As a resident of Kitsap County, it’s probably assumed that you’ve been to the Olympic National Park. However, I’m not going to make assumptions. Instead, I’ll just remind you that this needs to be on the top of your list of places to visit in Washington.

Olympic National Park is located on the Olympic Peninsula. Get ready for some unbelievable scenery. You’ve got the ocean and beach and then the white-covered mountains. Explore a variety of ecosystems within the park. Forge your way through the Olympic Mountains and hike in the lush green forests.

The park itself takes up the majority of the Olympic Peninsula. There are roads that circle the exterior of the park. While you can view the park in the car, the best way to take in the Olympic National Park is by hiking.

Park Details:

  • Address: 3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362
  • Check out the other attractions at the Olympic National Park.
  • For more park information and directions, head to the website.

#2. Downtown Seattle and Waterfront

Downtown Seattle has a little something for all. Take a tour of the historic Pike Place Market. Buy a fish while you’re there. Or go shopping at Pacific Place and enjoy lunch at one of the many Tom Douglas restaurants. Learn about Seattle’s history with the Underground Tour in Pioneer Square.

Don’t forget to head down to the waterfront and visit the Seattle Aquarium and take a ride on the Great Wheel. Pack a lunch or get take out and visit the Olympic Sculpture Park and explore the beach and waterfront.

Seattle Details:

  • Book your Seattle vacation and stay at one of the top hotels in the city.
  • Buy tickets for the Great Wheel and book a private dining experience.
  • Check out some of the best restaurants in the city and make a reservation.

#3. Deception Pass

Deception Pass separates Whidbey Island and Fidalgo island. The Deception Pass Bridge connects Skagit Bay in the Puget Sound, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The bridge is an iconic landmark in the area. It dates all the way back to the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Deception Pass Park is easily considered one of the best state parks in Washington. It’s for sure one of the most visited parks in the state. Enjoy activities such as tide pooling, hiking, camping, and boating. Or just take in the beauty and enjoy the scenic views.

Pass Details:

  • Address: 41229 State Route 20 Oak Harbor, WA 98277
  • Check out these six attractions on your way to Deception Pass.
  • There are plenty of campsites available throughout the three campgrounds inside the park.
  • Head to their website for park information, weather updates, gear rental, and more.

#4. Leavenworth

Visit Washington’s very own Bavarian Village of Leavenworth. The best seasons to visit are Summer, Autumn, Winter, or Spring. That’s right-Leavenworth has so much to offer throughout the year.

Walk the downtown strip and take in the Alpine-style buildings. Enjoy a German beer and Polish dog at one of the many restaurants. In the warmer months enjoy the trails throughout the village or go rafting in the Wenatchee River.

During the winter months, take a tour of the surrounding areas on a snowmobile, go snowshoeing or Nordic Skiing. Of course, if you are visiting during the holiday season, be sure to check out the Christmas Lighting Festival. A true scene out of your favorite holiday movie.

Leavenworth Details:

  • Stay up to date with all events going on in Leavenworth.
  • Play your stay at one of Leavenworth’s finest hotels.
  • Check out all the attractions and activities for the whole family.
  • Head to the website for more information on restaurants, festivals, amenities, and more.

#5. Mount St. Helens

Make sure a visit to Mount St. Helens is on your bucket list. However, don’t put off seeing it for too long. It’s an active volcano, so it’s anyone’s guess how long you have to visit this unbelievable place. Mount St. Helens erupted a little over forty years ago, and the landscape is still recovering from the chaos.

One activity you must do when you visit Mount St. Helens is hiking the Climbers’ Bivouac. While the hike is challenging, it actually doesn’t require any intense climbing skills. If hiking isn’t your thing, visit Seaquest State Park, go ziplining at Treehouse Island Zipline Adventures, or go wine tasting at Mount St. Helens Cellars.

Volcano Details:

  • Get all the information you need before you head out on one of the many hikes at Mount St. Helens.
  • With so many fun activities and things to do near Mount St. Helens, you’ll probably need to extend your stay.
  • For park information, directions, and more, head to the website.

#6. Bellingham

If you haven’t made it up to Bellingham, it’s well worth a trip. This coastal city north of Seattle has so much to offer. Canada is a quick drive up north (and a border crossing). Mount Baker is to the East with plenty of ski runs on the snow covered volcano.

Visit the Fairhaven Historic District and check out some of the local art galleries. Take the beauty of Boulevard Park with waterfront views. Head to the Big Rock Garden with 2.5 acres of various garden sculptures through the lush forest.

Bellingham Details:

  • Book your stay at the beautiful Semiahmoo Resort near Bellingham in Blaine.
  • Check out some of the best tourist attractions and activities in and around the city.
  • If the weather cooperates, head out on one of Bellingham’s beautiful trail hikes.

#7. Winthrop

Head to Winthrop and don’t forget to pack your cowboy boots and hat. With an Old West inspired feel, Winthrop’s nestled in the Methow Valley. It’s actually the gateway to the North Cascades National Park. With plenty of activities to do year round, there’s a little something for everyone.

Explore the historic downtown and taste the beers, wines and ciders available at the Old School Brewery. In the summer, shop at the farmers market and visit Pearrygin State Park. During the winter months head to the Methow Valley for some cross-country skiing.

Winthrop Details:

  • Check out this extensive list of activities to do all year round in Winthrop.
  • Stay at the Sun Mountain Lodge for a real Winthrop get away.
  • Plan your trip around Winthrop’s best events, including music festivals, rodeo and car shows.

#9. Palouse Falls

Palouse Falls is the official state waterfall thanks to a group of local elementary school students. Over 13,000 years ago Ice Age Floods carved out what is today’s Palouse Falls. It’s actually one of the last active waterfalls.

To get the best view of the falls, visit the Palouse Falls State Park. There are three areas perfect for viewing the falls and all their glory. Due to the remote location, finding camping can be a challenge. So plan ahead and make campground reservations.

Falls Details:

  • Read up on all the activities available at the falls, including kayaking, hiking, and wildlife awareness information.
  • Discover the best time of year to visit Palouse Falls, and plan your trip accordingly.
  • Find and book a campsite near the falls early since space is limited.

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