Overview

Washington State offers a dramatic blend of lush forests, rugged mountains, sparkling coastlines, and vibrant cities. From the innovative energy of Seattle to the serene beauty of Olympic National Park and the rolling hills of wine country in Eastern Washington, the Evergreen State is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, food lovers, and cultural explorers alike.

  • Capital: Olympia
  • Largest Cities: Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Bellevue
  • Population: ~7.9 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (UTC−8) / PDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Varied — marine west coast along the coast and west of the Cascades; semi-arid in the east

Top Destinations in Washington

Seattle

The state’s largest city and cultural hub, home to the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, world-class coffee, and a thriving tech and music scene.

Olympic National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site with lush rainforests, alpine peaks, and wild Pacific beaches all in one park.

Mount Rainier National Park

Dominated by a 14,410-foot stratovolcano, this park offers incredible hiking, wildflower meadows, and glacier views.

Leavenworth

A Bavarian-style village in the Cascade Mountains known for its festivals, alpine charm, and outdoor recreation.

San Juan Islands

A peaceful archipelago perfect for kayaking, whale watching, and relaxing coastal vibes.

Must-See Attractions

  • Pike Place Market (Seattle) – A bustling market with fresh seafood, local artisans, and flying fish
  • Space Needle & Chihuly Garden and Glass (Seattle) – Iconic skyline views and stunning glass art
  • Hoh Rain Forest (Olympic NP) – One of the only temperate rainforests in the U.S.
  • Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument – Learn about the 1980 eruption and ongoing geology
  • Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) – A unique museum celebrating music, sci-fi, video games, and more

Things to Do

  • Hike or snowshoe in the Cascades or Olympics
  • Visit vineyards in Walla Walla or Yakima Valley
  • Take a ferry ride from Seattle to Bainbridge or Whidbey Island
  • Explore coffee culture at iconic and indie cafés
  • Ski or snowboard at Crystal Mountain, Stevens Pass, or Mount Baker

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • Seattle–Tacoma International (SEA), Spokane International (GEG), Bellingham International (BLI)

Transport

  • Washington State Ferries connect islands and coastal cities
  • Sound Transit and Amtrak serve Seattle and the I-5 corridor
  • Rental cars are best for exploring national parks and rural regions

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Apr–Jun): Wildflowers and pleasant weather
  • Summer (Jul–Sep): Ideal for hiking, kayaking, and clear mountain views
  • Fall (Oct–Nov): Wine harvest, colorful foliage, and fewer crowds
  • Winter (Dec–Mar): Great for skiing and storm-watching along the coast

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Known for fresh seafood, farm-to-table fare, and international influence
  • Specialties: Dungeness crab, oysters, salmon, Rainier cherries, teriyaki, pho
  • Drinks: Washington wines, craft beer, cider, and some of the best coffee in the world
  • Events & Festivals:
  • Seattle International Film Festival
  • Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
  • Bumbershoot Music & Arts Festival
  • Taste Washington (Seattle) – Food & wine celebration
  • Leavenworth Oktoberfest

Souvenirs from Washington

  • Locally roasted coffee beans or mugs
  • Salmon, smoked or canned, and regional hot sauces
  • Glass art or prints from local Pacific Northwest artists
  • Washington wines or cherry products
  • Flannel, outdoor gear, or Space Needle memorabilia

Fun Facts

  • Washington is the only U.S. state named after a president
  • Seattle has the first Starbucks, opened in 1971 at Pike Place Market
  • The state produces more apples, hops, and cherries than any other
  • Home to Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing, and the grunge music scene
  • The Hoh Rain Forest gets over 140 inches of rain annually

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Seattle & Surroundings

  • Day 1: Explore Pike Place, MoPOP, and the Space Needle
  • Day 2: Ferry to Bainbridge Island + local dining
  • Day 3: Day trip to Mount Rainier or Snoqualmie Falls

5-Day National Park & Coast Tour

  • Day 1: Seattle to Olympic National Park – hike Hurricane Ridge
  • Day 2: Hoh Rain Forest and Pacific beaches
  • Day 3: Drive to Mount Rainier – explore Paradise or Sunrise areas
  • Day 4: Leavenworth – alpine town charm and river walk
  • Day 5: Return to Seattle via scenic Cascade Loop

Cities

  • Seattle