Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover, or a bit of a thrill seeker, there’s plenty of exciting and unique things to do in Washington.
Imagine a place surrounded by lush greenery where you can dine on delicious seafood, explore world-class cities, hike through the mountains, or kayak alongside orcas – all in one day! While this may seem too good to be true, you can enjoy all of these exciting activities (and so much more) in Washington State.
With so much to see and do, where should you even start? If you’re trying to plan an epic Washington adventure, but feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry! We’ve rounded up 30 things to do in Washington featuring some of the state’s best attractions and activities. From bioluminescent kayaking to Mt. Rainier tours and Seattle coffee tastings, your ultimate Washington adventure starts here!
TOP THINGS TO DO IN WASHINGTON
If you’ve never been to Washington before, these top attractions and experiences deserve a spot on your bucket list!
1. Admire Mount Rainier
While Washington is home to three different national parks, Mount Rainier is arguably the most iconic. Located just 60 miles from Seattle, this sleeping volcano looms on the horizon, providing spellbinding mountain views. One of the best times to visit the park is late July when the snow has melted, the wildflowers are blooming, and guided tours are in full swing!
2. Stroll Through the Hoh Rainforest
Like fairytales? Then you’ll LOVE the Hoh Rainforest! Nestled within the Olympic Peninsula, the Hoh Rainforest is known for its ancient trees and enchanting blankets of neon green moss. You’ll feel like you’ve just stepped inside a dream world as you hike through one of the largest temperate rainforests in the US. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a majestic Roosevelt Elk hidden amongst the trees.
3. Visit the Pike Place Market
Experience the “Soul of Seattle” at the Pike Place Market! This iconic marketplace is home to over 200 independently owned businesses – it’s your one stop shop for all things Washington! Shop for souvenirs from local vendors and artists, bite into fresh produce, or sip on the perfect cup of coffee. Whatever you do, don’t miss the Pike Place Fish Market. You’ll have a blast watching fishmongers toss massive salmon through the air!
4. Ride to the Top of the Space Needle
If you’ve never been before, it’s time to add the Space Needle to your bucket list! This 605-foot-tall spire was built for the 1962 World's Fair. Today, it features an awe-inspiring observation deck and a rotating restaurant. Take a ride to the top for a bird's eye view of Downtown, Puget Sound, Lake Union, and more. On a clear day, you’ll even get a spectacular look at Mount Rainier!
5. Take a Scenic Cruise
From the salmon-rich waters of the Salish Sea to the urban shores of Lake Union, Washington is famous for its waterways. And there’s no better way to experience them than from the deck of a beautiful boat! Feel the gentle waves beneath your feet as you sail across the water on a one-of-a-kind scenic cruise.
6. Get Your Caffeine Fix
We all need a pick me up sometimes. Lucky for you, Seattle is home to some of the best coffee roasters in the country! But there’s more to these city streets than just great coffee. Go beyond that simple cup of java and immerse yourself in the city’s fascinating coffee culture on a caffeine-fueled tour or tasting!
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7. Experience Bavaria in Leavenworth, Washington
Enjoy a little slice of Germany – without having to dig out your passport! To put it simply, Leavenworth is magical. From breathtaking views of the rugged Cascade Mountains to the town’s charming alpine-style architecture, you have to see it to believe it! On this amazing guided tour, you’ll travel from Seattle to Leavenworth and have plenty of time to explore this enchanting village.
8. Go Ahead…Chase Some Waterfalls
It’s no secret that Washington is one of the rainiest states in the US. Sure, the rain can be a bit dreary, but the waterfalls it helps create are truly extraordinary. Marymere Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Latourell Falls are some of our personal favorites (just to name a few!) If you’re staying near Seattle, don’t miss the famous Snoqualmie Waterfall!
9. Explore Mount St. Helens
In 1980, Mount St. Helens changed the Washington landscape forever. Beginning with a series of earthquakes, this massive volcano exploded, sending ash across the country and destroying everything nearby. During this fully-guided tour, you’ll learn all about the eruption, ongoing reforestation efforts, and volcanic monitoring. You’ll even get to hike a section of the historic blast zone.
ADVENTUROUS THINGS TO DO IN WASHINGTON
With so many different and breathtaking landscapes to explore, Washington is truly an adventure-lovers paradise! From rafting to mountain biking, here’s our top picks for adventurous things to do in Washington.
10. Paddle Across a Glowing Bay
Sure, by day the Salish Sea is gorgeous, but after the sun goes down, something truly magical happens! Suddenly, the seemingly dark water begins to sparkle and glow with every passing wave. If you’ve never experienced bioluminescence before, trust us when we say that there’s nothing quite like it! On this guided kayak tour, you’ll paddle through gentle waters and watch in awe as the water lights up with your every move!
11. Go Whitewater Rafting
Attention thrill seekers – this one’s for you! From the exhilarating, Class III rapids on the Wenatchee River to the White Salmon River’s notorious Class V, 10-foot waterfall, Washington is home to some of the best whitewater rafting in America! So, what are you waiting for? Grab a paddle and get ready to tackle tricky dips, turns, rapids, and more!
12. Soar Over Seattle
The best way to see Seattle? From the seat of a helicopter, of course! Just imagine putting on your very own headset before feeling the ground disappear beneath your feet. Don’t forget to bring your camera as you enjoy a bird’s eye view of Downtown, the Space Needle, Puget Sound, Mt. Rainier, and so much more!
13. Canyoneer Through the Cascades
There’s nothing more adventurous than hiking, jumping, and scrambling up Washington’s backcountry canyons and waterfalls! And during this adrenalizing tour, you’ll do just that (and more!) You’ll be joined by an expert guide who will lead you deep into the mountainous landscape. Using professional-grade gear, you’ll have a blast exploring nature’s playgrounds – you’ll even get to rappel down a stunning waterfall!
14. Hop on the Seat of a Mountain Bike
If you’re an avid mountain biker (or even just a beginner), we think you’ll agree that Washington’s trails are some of the best in the country! From advanced tracks through lush forests to gentle valley rides, mountain biking in Washington is not only fun, but also incredibly diverse. No matter your skill level, these guided bike tours are the perfect way to get out and explore nature!
15. Hike a Piece of the Pacific Crest Trail
The Pacific Crest Trail is an astonishing, 2,650-mile trail that stretches across the Western US from Mexico to Canada. A whopping 487 of these miles wind through Washington’s rugged mountains, ancient forests, and expansive valleys. While you may not be ready to tackle all 487 miles, we highly recommend hiking a portion of this scenic trail. Some of the best places to explore include Lake Valhalla, Snoqualmie Pass, and Windy Pass.
16. Drive the North Cascades Scenic Highway
The North Cascades Scenic Highway, or the Cascade Loop, is known as Washington’s Ultimate Road Trip – and for good reason! This 140-mile byway ascends into North Cascades National Park, passing by waterfalls, alpine glaciers, lush meadows, and more. There’s plenty of overlooks along the way, so you’ll have plenty of time to stop for photos!
17. Kayak With Orcas
Did you know that Washington’s Salish Sea is the best place to spot wild Orcas in North America? It’s true! And on this remarkable overnight kayak adventure, you’ll paddle through prime whale habitat! If you’re lucky, you may spot one of the region’s 85 resident Orcas as they dip and dive through the waves. You may also see Bald Eagles, Harbor Seals, jellyfish, and more!
THINGS TO DO IN WASHINGTON WITH KIDS
Finding an adventure that the whole family will love is no easy task. Lucky for you, Washington is full of family-friendly activities – perfect for even the pickiest of kids!
18. Go Indoor Skydiving
At iFly, kiddos as young as 3 can enjoy the thrill of soaring in a wind tunnel! Before taking flight, you’ll be equipped with a helmet, eye protection, and a special flight suit. Then, with the help of an expert instructor, you’ll learn how to position and adjust your body. Before you know it, you’ll be floating effortlessly through the air! Plus, all your loved ones can watch through the wind tunnel’s clear walls!
19. Take the Kids on a Scavenger Hunt
Scavenger hunts are an incredibly easy way to get outside and have fun. Simply come up with a list of things your family has to find in order to win. Some fun examples include a heart-shaped rock, a yellow leaf, or even a photo of them hugging a tree. Don’t feel like coming up with your own list? Check out these app-led hunts!
20. Visit the Original Selfie Museum
Say cheese! At the Original Selfie Museum, guests of all ages can strike a pose in front of whimsical backgrounds! Don your most fun and colorful outfits and take advantage of the museum’s professional lighting, ring lights, tripods, and phone holders. Your kids will have a blast taking photos and sharing them with friends. Plus, you’ll take home a TON of fun and silly family photos that you can cherish forever!
21. Get a Little Creative
If your family loves arts and crafts, don’t miss these hands-on art classes and kits! Our personal favorite? This Creative Spin Art Experience in Redmond! Your family will love pouring different colors of paint onto a blank canvas before watching in awe as the canvas spins and tilts, creating one-of-a-kind shapes and textures!
22. Experience the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
Springtime in Washington is magical. Winter rains give way to wildflowers, lush plants, and in Skagit Valley: fields of vibrant tulips! Every April, the valley’s hills burst with color. Millions of yellow, pink, and red tulips dot the hills, providing an epic and colorful road trip that will amaze the whole family. You can even explore and take photos at four different tulip gardens!
23. Go Tide Pooling
Washington’s rocky shores are perfect for tide pooling! At low tide, gaze into these enchanting underwater worlds. Watch as colorful crabs skitter across rocks, discover purple and orange sea stars, and stare at sticky green anemones. For some of the best tide pooling in the state, we highly recommend Rialto Beach, the Salt Creek Recreation Area, and Ruby Beach!
24. Hunt for Sasquatch
Legend has it that the forests of the Pacific Northwest are home to a mysterious, 8-foot-tall behemoth: the infamous Bigfoot! Take the kids on a scenic hike and see if you can spot the elusive Sasquatch! You’ll enjoy a relaxing walk while your kiddos have a blast searching for footprints and fur. If you’re lucky, you may even hear Bigfoot knocking on the trees!
UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN WASHINGTON
Looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure that will leave you with a great story to tell? From delectable donut tours to purr-fect cat yoga sessions, these are some of the most unique things to do in Washington!
25. Take a Glass Blowing Class
Have you always dreamed of creating your own glass masterpiece? Well, now’s your chance! During this hands-on class, you’ll step inside a state-of-the-art hot shop and get straight to work. An expert glass maker will show you how to safely gather, shape, and color glass. You’ll even get to take home your unique creation!
26. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Glazed, sprinkled, raised, filled…you know em’, you love em’! We’re of course talking about everyone’s favorite breakfast treat: donuts! Downtown Seattle is home to some of the world’s tastiest donuts and on this amazing tour, you’ll get to try them for yourself. Discover 4 of the city's best donut shops and treat yourself to a variety of heavenly pastries!
27. Strike a Yoga Pose…With Cats!
Trust us, this is one of the most unique yoga classes you’ll ever experience! Upon arrival at this one-of-a-kind studio, you’ll stretch out your mat, relax your mind, and maybe make a few four-legged friends. As you stretch into each pose, don’t be surprised if a cute and cuddly cat joins you on the mat. Plus, most of the cats are adoptable – you may just meet your new forever friend!
28. Try Float Therapy
In case you’ve never heard of it, Float Therapy is a unique form of treatment that allows you to experience weightlessness in a modern float tank! Each tank is filled with warm water and thousands of pounds of Epsom salt, creating an anti-gravity environment. Feel yourself slip into serenity and experience several health benefits like pain relief, stress management, and recovery!
29. Set Out on a Beer (Or Wine!) Kayak Tour
Epic views, good company, and bottles of delicious wine or beer. You in? Sign us up! Whether you prefer a good brew or the perfect glass of vino, these unique, 3-day kayak trips will take you around the picturesque San Juan Islands. During the day, you’ll paddle around, searching for Orcas, Bald Eagles, and more. At night, you’ll enjoy gourmet meals paired with award-winning beverages!
30. Experience Seattle’s Spooky Side
Who…or what could be lurking in the shadows of Seattle? Find out on these spooktacular ghost tours! You’ll join a fun guide who is an expert in everything paranormal. They’ll take you to the city’s creepiest places while bringing the city’s haunted (and sometimes gruesome) history to life. Look out! There could be a ghost standing right behind you!
Want to explore even more incredible Washington experiences? Click here to discover your next grand adventure in the Evergreen State!
