Things to Do in Washington go far beyond what I expected. When I first planned my trip to Washington State, I didn’t realize just how much there would be to see and do. I thought it would be all about rainy weather and coffee, but I was so wrong—in the best way. Washington is packed with natural beauty, cool cities, peaceful small towns, and lots of fun things to explore.
From the busy streets of Seattle to the quiet forests and mountains, every place I visited felt special in its own way. I hiked through national parks, watched whales from the coast, enjoyed delicious local food, and even relaxed in charming villages. Whether you’re an outdoor lover, a foodie, or someone who enjoys learning about new places, Washington has something for you.
In this article, I’ll share some of the best things I did during my trip to Washington. Hopefully, it’ll help you plan your own adventure in this amazing state!
Explore Seattle – One of the Top Things to Do in Washington
Seattle was the first place I visited in Washington, and it was full of life and energy. There’s just something exciting about being in a big city surrounded by mountains and water. The moment I arrived, I could feel the creative and friendly vibe everywhere—from the coffee shops to the street performers.
One of the highlights for me was visiting the Space Needle. I went up to the top and got an amazing view of the city, Puget Sound, and even Mount Rainier in the distance. Then I walked over to Pike Place Market, where I watched the fishmongers throw fish through the air, tasted fresh local food, and browsed through handmade crafts. It felt like a little world of its own.
I also spent some time exploring the waterfront, visiting the Seattle Aquarium, and checking out the Museum of Pop Culture, which was full of cool exhibits about music, movies, and video games. Seattle has a mix of modern fun and natural beauty that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re into history, art, or just want a great meal with a view, this city really has it all.
Visit Mount Rainier National Park
When I saw Mount Rainier for the first time, it honestly took my breath away. The snow-covered mountain stands tall and proud, and you can see it from miles away. Visiting Mount Rainier National Park was one of the most peaceful and beautiful parts of my trip to Washington.
I drove through winding roads surrounded by forests, waterfalls, and wildflowers. I stopped at Paradise, one of the most popular spots in the park, and it really lived up to its name. I took a short hike along one of the trails and got to see amazing views of the mountain, alpine meadows, and even a few marmots running around. It felt like walking through a postcard.
If you love the outdoors like I do, Mount Rainier is the perfect place to hike, take pictures, or just relax in nature. There are easy walks and tough hikes, so there’s something for everyone. I made sure to bring snacks, water, and my camera—and I’m so glad I did. Visiting this national park made me feel more connected to nature and reminded me just how wild and wonderful Washington really is.
READ MORE: Top Things to Do in Wisconsin
Discover Olympic National Park
One of the most unforgettable places I visited in Washington was Olympic National Park. It’s such a unique park because it has everything—mountains, forests, lakes, and even the ocean. I was amazed that one place could feel like several different worlds all at once.
I started my visit in the Hoh Rain Forest, which felt like stepping into a fairytale. Moss hung from the trees, the air was fresh and damp, and the forest was so green and peaceful. I took a short trail called the Hall of Mosses, and it was perfect for soaking in the beauty without a tough hike.
Then I drove to Hurricane Ridge, where I saw snowy mountain peaks and even some deer wandering around. The view from the top was incredible. Later, I made my way to the coast to see Rialto Beach. The big driftwood logs and sea stacks were like nothing I’d seen before. Walking along the beach while listening to the waves was the perfect way to end the day.
Olympic National Park is a must-see if you’re in Washington. No matter what kind of nature you love—rainforests, mountains, or beaches—this park has it all. I felt like I went on three adventures in one day.
Enjoy the San Juan Islands
Taking a trip to the San Juan Islands was one of the most peaceful and fun parts of my time in Washington. I took a ferry from Anacortes, and the ride itself was beautiful—calm waters, little forested islands, and even a few seals swimming by. It felt like I was heading to a secret getaway.
I stayed on San Juan Island, which had a cozy small-town feel and plenty to do. One of the best things I did was go on a whale watching tour. I was lucky enough to see orcas swimming in the wild, and it was an amazing experience I’ll never forget. I also explored Friday Harbor, where I found cute shops, tasty seafood, and friendly locals.
Besides whale watching, I rented a bike and rode through quiet roads with views of farms, forests, and the sea. I also visited the San Juan Island National Historical Park to learn about the island’s history. The San Juan Islands are perfect if you want to slow down, enjoy nature, and just relax. I felt so refreshed after spending time there.
Relax in Leavenworth – A Bavarian-Style Village
When I arrived in Leavenworth, I felt like I had stepped into a little village in the Alps. The town is designed in a Bavarian style, with charming buildings, German signs, and even people walking around in traditional outfits. It was such a fun and different experience, right in the middle of Washington State.
I spent the day walking through the village, stopping at shops that sold handmade gifts, chocolate, and Christmas decorations—even in the summer! I had a warm pretzel and a bratwurst from a local restaurant, and it tasted just like something you’d find in Germany. In the evening, there was live music in the town square, and everyone was in a good mood, just enjoying the moment.
Leavenworth also has beautiful mountain views, so I took a short walk by the river and soaked it all in. In the winter, it becomes a snowy wonderland with lights and festivals. But honestly, it’s magical any time of year. If you want to relax, eat good food, and enjoy a little bit of Europe without leaving the U.S., Leavenworth is the perfect place to go.
Experience Washington Wine Country
I had no idea how amazing Washington wine country was until I visited. The state is actually one of the top wine producers in the U.S., and once I explored the vineyards, I could see why. The scenery, the peaceful atmosphere, and the delicious wine made it one of the most relaxing parts of my trip.
I spent time in the Walla Walla Valley, which is famous for its red wines, especially Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. I visited a few local wineries, and each one had something special to offer. Some had cozy tasting rooms, while others let me sip wine right in the vineyard with a view of the rolling hills. The people were so friendly and happy to explain how the wine was made.
Even if you’re not a wine expert, it’s a fun and easy-going experience. I took my time, tried a few small bites with the wine, and just enjoyed the peaceful setting. If you’re in Washington and want to slow down and enjoy the local flavors, visiting wine country is a great way to do it. I left feeling relaxed, refreshed, and maybe just a little bit tipsy—in the best way.
See Spokane and Eastern Washington
When I visited Spokane, I was surprised by how much there was to see and do in Eastern Washington. It’s a different vibe from the west side of the state—less rainy, more sunny, and filled with wide-open spaces. Spokane is the biggest city in this part of Washington, and it has a cool mix of nature and city life.
I started at Riverfront Park, right in downtown Spokane. It’s a beautiful spot with walking paths, a giant red wagon slide, and views of Spokane Falls. I took a ride on the SkyRide gondola, which gave me an awesome view of the river and waterfalls. After that, I checked out some local shops and had lunch at a cozy café nearby.
Outside the city, I drove through rolling hills and golden fields that seemed to stretch forever. This area is great for outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and even wine tasting. I also visited a few small towns that were full of charm and history. Eastern Washington might not get as much attention as Seattle, but it’s totally worth the trip. It showed me a quieter, sunnier side of the state that I really enjoyed.
Go on Scenic Drives and Hikes
One of my favorite ways to explore Washington was by taking scenic drives and going on hikes. The state is full of beautiful roads that wind through forests, mountains, and along rivers. Driving through these landscapes felt like being inside a nature movie.
One drive I loved was the North Cascades Highway. The views of jagged mountains, deep valleys, and crystal-clear lakes were stunning at every turn. I stopped often to snap photos and take short hikes to waterfalls and viewpoints. It’s the perfect way to see a lot of nature without too much effort.
Washington also has tons of hiking trails for all levels. I tried a few easy walks in places like Rattlesnake Ledge and Twin Falls, where I got close to rushing water and forest wildlife. For a bigger challenge, I tackled parts of the Pacific Crest Trail and felt rewarded with amazing panoramic views. Whether you want a peaceful walk or a full-day adventure, Washington’s scenic drives and hikes never disappoint. I always felt refreshed and inspired after being outdoors here.
Conclusion
Visiting Washington was one of the best trips I’ve ever taken. From the vibrant city life in Seattle to the peaceful beauty of its national parks, this state truly has something for everyone. Whether you love hiking, relaxing by the water, exploring charming towns, or tasting local wine, Washington won’t disappoint.
I enjoyed every moment—from watching whales in the San Juan Islands to driving scenic mountain roads and discovering hidden gems in Eastern Washington. If you’re planning a trip, make sure to include these amazing places on your list. Washington’s diverse landscapes and friendly people made my visit unforgettable, and I’m sure you’ll feel the same way too.
