Washington

The Evergreen State and the only state named after a president; a complete travel guide to Washington.

Location

Washington State is a captivating destination in the Pacific Northwest, known for its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. From the bustling streets of Seattle and Tacoma to the breathtaking peaks of Mount Rainier and the serene beauty of the San Juan Islands, Washington offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor adventures, world-class dining, coffee culture, or historic landmarks, this travel guide to Washington will help you uncover the best of the Evergreen State.

Washington DESTINATIONS

What to Expect in Washington

Getting to Washington

Washington is well-connected and easy to reach, whether you’re flying in from across the country, driving along scenic highways, or arriving by train or ferry.

By Air: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the state’s primary air hub, with nonstop flights from around the world. Spokane International Airport (GEG) serves Eastern Washington, while smaller airports such as Bellingham International (BLI) and Yakima Air Terminal (YKM) provide convenient regional access.
By Car: Major highways like I-5, I-90, and US-101 make driving a popular way to explore Washington. Scenic routes, such as the Cascade Loop or Pacific Coast Highway, offer breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and coastal towns.
By Train: Amtrak’s Cascades route connects cities like Seattle, Tacoma, Everett, and Bellingham, while the Empire Builder route travels through Spokane, offering a scenic way to experience the state.

Best Time to Visit Washington

Washington’s seasons offer unique experiences depending on your interests and region.

Spring (March – May): Ideal for cherry blossoms in Seattle, whale watching, and exploring hiking trails before the summer crowds.
Summer (June – August): Perfect for mountain hikes, kayaking, and island hopping in the San Juans under sunny skies.
Fall (September – November): Known for crisp weather, vibrant foliage in Leavenworth, and wine harvests in Walla Walla.
Winter (December – February): Great for skiing in Stevens Pass or Crystal Mountain and cozy getaways in mountain lodges.

Things to Do in Washington

Outdoor Adventures: Hike Mount Rainier, sail in the Puget Sound, or explore North Cascades National Park.
Historic Sites: Visit Pioneer Square in Seattle, Fort Vancouver, and the San Juan Island National Historical Park.
Museums & Culture: Explore the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), Seattle Art Museum, and The Museum of Flight.
Sports & Events: Catch a Seahawks game, attend Bumbershoot Festival, or enjoy Seattle International Film Festival.
Festivals: Experience Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, Fremont Solstice Parade, and Taste Washington wine event.

Travel Tips for Washington

Weather Prep: Bring layers, as coastal regions can be cool and rainy while Eastern Washington stays dry and sunny.
Ferry Travel: Consider using the Washington State Ferries for scenic trips to islands and peninsulas.
Public Transport: Seattle has robust public transit, but a car is recommended for rural or mountainous regions.
Local Etiquette: Washingtonians are friendly but value environmental stewardship—recycle and pack out trash when hiking.

Washington Travel Frequently Asked Questions

Is Washington expensive to visit?
Washington can be moderate to expensive, but there are options for every budget, especially if you explore the outdoors.

What is Washington best known for?
Coffee culture, tech hubs, outdoor adventures, fresh seafood, and iconic landmarks like the Space Needle and Mount Rainier.

Do I need a car in Washington?
A car is recommended if you want to explore beyond Seattle or take road trips to national parks and islands.