road trip destinations from seattle

Best Road Trips From Seattle

Top road trip destinations from seattle.

Yellowstone National Park

🚗 790 miles ⏱️ 12 hours, 30 minutes

To give you an idea of its sheer size, Yellowstone National Park is 2.2 million acres! In this expansive national park, there are a few highlights that you cannot miss, including walking along the Upper Geyser Basin and watching the iconic Old Faithful geyser erupt.

This drive from Seattle will take you past stunning scenery, such as Snoqualmie Falls , the pretty town of Spokane and Coeur d'Alene - and that's even before you arrive in Yellowstone!

🚗 860 miles ⏱️ 15 hours, 30 minutes

The drive from Seattle to stunning Lake Tahoe will allow you to discover the crystal-clear waters and breathtaking mountain views of this magical place. Lake Tahoe offers year-round outdoor activities, from skiing to kayaking.

Some of the amazing places you can visit on this route include Portland , Deschutes River State Recreation Area near Bend , Crater Lake National Park and Lassen Volcanic National Park .

🚗 140 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 30 minutes

Thanks to its diverse population, top-notch food scene, incredibly picturesque setting and countless other factors, Vancouver is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Here, you can go shopping on Robson Street and sample the local fare at a trendy restaurant.

This is a relatively short drive perfect for a day trip. If you want a longer adventure, you can also stop by Imagine Children's Museum in Everett , Mount Vernon and Whatcom Museum in Bellingham en route.

Olympic National Park

🚗 110 miles ⏱️ 2 hours

Spending a day in the Olympic National Park is a little bit like visiting multiple countries all at once. Amazingly, you'll find alpine mountain ranges next to pebbly beaches, as well as one of the largest temperate rain forests in the US.

This is a stunningly scenic circular road trip that will take you past the coastal scenery in Port Angeles , Lake Crescent, Ruby Beach and Quinault among other beautiful places.

San Francisco

🚗 940 miles ⏱️ 20 hours, 30 minutes

The beautiful Pacific Coast city of San Francisco is known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, historic cable cars, wonky streets and amazing food scene with its farm-to-table movement. Don't forget to explore the diverse neighborhoods and stunning bay views.

You will be treated one incredible scenery after another in Astoria , Cannon Beach , Humboldt Redwoods State Park , and Mendocino en route.

🚗 1,080 miles ⏱️ 16 hours, 50 minutes

Moab is a haven for adventurers. The town is a stone's throw from Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, where you can admire the breathtaking landscapes and enjoy activities like biking, rafting, and rock climbing in this outdoor playground.

This drive is dotted with scenic towns and iconic cities you can visit en route such as Yakima , Boise , Twin Falls and Salt Lake City .

🚗 730 miles ⏱️ 13 hours

Mendocino is a beautiful coastal hamlet famous for its impossibly stunning cliff-side trails, sprawling parks, world-class restaurants and alluringly tranquil charm. For a truly memorable holiday, make yourself at home in one of the luxurious resorts by the sea.

On this beautiful drive, you will first travel inland through Portland and Salem and then hit the beautiful Pacific Coast to visit pretty towns like Crescent City and the majestic Humboldt Redwoods State Park .

Glacier National Park

🚗 550 miles ⏱️ 10 hours

Roaring rivers, dramatic mountain peaks, the world's only inland cedar rainforest… These are just some of the reasons to go on a road trip from Seattle to the spectacular Glacier National Park in Montana. Make sure to enjoy a scenic drive on Going-to-the-Sun Road.

This road trip will be a stunningly scenic experience with the unusual landscape of Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park , pretty towns Spokane and Coeur D'Alene as well as lakeside Bigfork en route.

San Juan Islands

🚗 110 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 10 minutes

This wild archipelago is made up of about 172 islands and reefs, four of which are accessible by passenger ferry. The most popular destinations are San Juan Island, Orcas Island and Lopez Island, each of which has its own distinct selling points and character.

On your way to the islands on this relatively short drive, you can make a stop in Everett to visit Evergreen Arboretum and Gardens and Imagine Children's Museum .

Mt Rainier National Park

🚗 60 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 30 minutes

Mt Rainier National Park is centered around the majestic Mount Rainier and is a great destination for hikers and outdoor adventurers who are drawn to its well-marked walking trails and breathtaking fields of wildflowers.

If you love arts and design, we recommend taking some extra time to visit the Museum of Glass in Tacoma and Recycled Spirits of Iron Sculpture Park en route.

Whidbey Island

🚗 40 miles ⏱️ 1 hour

Wine connoisseurs and nature lovers alike will delight in Whidbey Island, a picturesque glacier-formed stretch of land in the middle of Puget Sound. Discover the charm of Whidbey Island with its historic sites, local arts, and picturesque beaches.

This short drive will take you out of the city and almost directly onto the island, but don't miss out on visiting the fascinating Boeing Future of Flight on the way.

Snoqualmie Falls

🚗 30 miles ⏱️ 40 minutes

The roaring force of Snoqualmie Falls is a truly spectacular sight to behold, producing a sound that's somehow deafening and peaceful at the same time. Make a day of it by bringing along a picnic and having lunch al fresco.

Just before reaching Snoqualmie Falls, you can make a scenic detour to the beautiful Tiger Mountain State Forest to make the most of this road trip.

Cannon Beach

🚗 435 miles ⏱️ 8 hours, 20 minutes

The stunning oceanside heaven of Cannon Beach is famous for its dramatic coastline over the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Haystack Rock. Here, you can enjoy the quaint town atmosphere and scenic beach walks.

This beautiful drive will take you around the Olympic Peninsula where you can visit the stunning Olympic National Park and Astoria before reaching Cannon Beach.

🚗 685 miles ⏱️ 13 hours, 20 minutes

Venture from Seattle to Calgary for a mix of urban fun and stunning natural beauty. This pretty city is the perfect gateway to the Canadian Rockies and host to the famous Calgary Stampede.

En route, you can detour to Vancouver , visit the cute town of Kamloops and spend some time in the gorgeous scenery of Yoho and Banff National Parks .

Napa Valley

🚗 800 miles ⏱️ 12 hours, 50 minutes

One of the world's best-known wine regions, Napa Valley, is home to exquisite vineyards and produces world-class wines. This renowned wine country also offers luxurious spas and gourmet dining amidst rolling hills.

On your way to the fabulous vineyards of Napa Valley, you can also make stops in Portland , Salem , Eugene and beautiful Mount Shasta .

🚗 170 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 50 minutes

Portland is known for its artsy population, culinary prowess and quirky charm - three fantastic reasons to take a road trip here. The city's unofficial slogan is 'Keep Portland weird,' so there's obviously no shortage of cool and offbeat activities to do here.

On the way, you will get to spend some time in Tacoma and Olympia , as well as get the opportunity to detour to Olympic National Park and Mt St. Helens National Volcanic Monument .

Redwood National Park

🚗 500 miles ⏱️ 9 hours

The Redwood National and State Parks are a great place to stop and get out for a walk in nature. Look up and admire the sky shining through the branches of the tallest trees on earth and try to see if you spot any wildlife while here.

Before you reach the Pacific Coast in California, you can visit Olympia , Portland , Salem and Eugene . Once you are on the shore, don't forget to visit Crescent City.

🚗 340 miles ⏱️ 6 hours

Head to Bend, Oregon for the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. You will enjoy a colorful arts scene, craft breweries, and numerous outdoor activities like hiking and skiing here.

If you have a little extra time, we recommend spending it in Olympia and Portland , both great cities to explore, on the way. You can even make a detour to Mt Hood National Forest on the way.

Bryce Canyon National Park

🚗 1,130 miles ⏱️ 17 hours, 40 minutes

If you are looking for an outdoorsy break, discover the unique geological structures of Bryce Canyon National Park and explore its vast amphitheaters. You can also hike the hoodoo-filled landscapes, and enjoy stunning vistas from Sunrise to Sunset Point.

En route, other amazing places to visit include scenic Yakima and Boise , as well as the urban hub of Salt Lake City . If you have more time you can extend your visit to explore Zion National Park nearby as well.

🚗 800 miles ⏱️ 14 hours, 30 minutes

Boise is the vibrant capital of Idaho, known for its rich history, arts scene, and being located on the doorstep of amazing outdoor activities. Discover the lively downtown, riverfront parks, and nearby mountains.

On this sizeable road trip, you can also spend some time in Portland and Salem as well as visit S ilver Falls State Park and the cool city of Eugene .

🚗 725 miles ⏱️ 13 hours, 30 minutes

There are only a few places as magically scenic as Banff, nestled in the stunning Canadian Rockies. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking mountain views, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Banff is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

En route, take some time to explore the magical landscape of North Cascades National Park , relax in Fairmont Hot Springs and enjoy a hike or two in Kootenay National Park .

🚗 340 miles ⏱️ 6 hours, 10 minutes

There are many reasons to visit Spokane such as its outdoor appeal, historical sites, and cultural institutions. This city is home to beautiful parks, art galleries, and a scenic river running through its heart, a perfect adventure for a long weekend!

This drive will take you past the cute Bavarian village of Leavenworth and the beautiful scenery of Lake Chelan .

Crater Lake

🚗 590 miles ⏱️ 12 hours

If you want to venture a little bit inland, take advantage of the wild beauty of Crater Lake National Park, in the southern part of Oregon. This park is known for its stunning blue color and scenic views.

Hugging the Pacific Coast, you can visit the beautiful oceanside towns of Cannon Beach , Newport and Coos Bay for a swim and a meal before heading inland.

Sonoma Coast

🚗 830 miles ⏱️ 15 hours, 30 minutes

Drive to California's Sonoma Coast, a Pacific Northwest favorite, to enjoy its stunning ocean vistas, rugged cliffs, and secluded beaches. Explore the local wineries and enjoy the region's gourmet food offerings.

Some of the great places we recommend visiting en route are Portland , Glass Beach in F ort Bragg and beautiful coastal town of Mendocino .

Coeur d'Alene

🚗 310 miles ⏱️ 5 hours

This little city on Lake Coeur is the perfect blend of small town charm and rugged nature. In the summer, the area is a natural playground, with cycling, golfing, fishing, hiking, and paddleboarding.

On your way, admire the scenery of Snoqualmie Pass , explore the otherworldly landscapes of G inkgo Petrified Forest State Park and spend some time in Spokane .

North Cascades National Park and Lake Chelan

🚗 180 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 30 minutes

North Cascades National Park is a massive wilderness of peaks, glaciers and forests, with nothing around but wildlife and a few backpacking trails. Lake Chelan will also wow you with its peaceful beauty.

On your way to North Cascades, you can make a stop at Ladder Creek Falls and then once you are done exploring the national park, you can admire the views of Chelan Gorge before you reach the lake.

Walla Walla

🚗 260 miles ⏱️ 4 hours, 30 minutes

With a rich history, a calendar full of lively cultural events, and more than 100 wineries, this area is like Washington state's very own Napa Valley. Head into Walla Walla City to take advantage of the charming shops, attractions, and restaurants.

There are plenty of new places to discover on this drive, such as Yakima , Hanford Reach National Monument and the curious REACH Museum in Kennewick .

🚗 220 miles ⏱️ 4 hours, 40 minutes

Whistler is a beautiful ski town with a pedestrian-only village. Some of the activities you can get stuck into include skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and mountain biking, zip-lining, hiking and kayaking in the warmer months.

Before you reach your destination, take some time to explore the urban hustle of Vancouver and the scenic views on the Sea-to-Sky Highway through Squamish .

Leavenworth

🚗 120 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 30 minutes

This romantic and delightfully kitschy mountain town was modeled after a traditional Bavarian village, and it has all the fixings to go with it - we're talking pretzel shops, breweries, and a lovely Bavarian Lodge.

This is a relatively short road trip, so you can extend your adventure to also visit Snoqualmie Falls , Keechelus Lake and Peshastin Pinnacles State Park en route.

Columbia River Gorge

🚗 180 miles ⏱️ 3 hours

The Columbia River Gorge is so unbelievably beautiful, in fact, that it looks more like a painting than a real-life place. And yet, this stunning canyon is very much real, and it's the perfect spot to spend a weekend.

En route, we recommend not hurrying to your destination and exploring Tacoma , Olympia and the colorful city of Portland .

🚗 170 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 30 minutes

With miles of sand and waves, Long Beach certainly does live up to its name. This lovely community southwest of Seattle is a classic destination on the Highway 101, which runs all along the West Coast of the US.

As you drive from Elliott Bay to the expansive shores of the Pacific Ocean, you can also visit Tacoma , Olympia and Lake Sylvia State Park .

🚗 130 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 10 minutes

Westport sits on a peninsula overlooking Grays Harbor, just southwest of Seattle. With its quaint charm and laid-back surfing culture, it makes for a great escape. Plus, it's a haven for seafood lovers on the hunt for the freshest catch.

If you are looking for some urban fun before you hit the waves, you can also visit the Museum of Glass in Tacoma and the Downtown Historic District in Olympia .

Not only is Ellensburg home to one of the top 10 rodeos in the whole country, but the entire downtown looks like an old Wild West set. Step back in time with a wander down the historic streets, lined with 19th-century buildings.

The beautiful landscapes we highly recommend visiting en route are Tiger Mountain State Forest , S noqualmie Falls and Keechelus Lake .

Longer road trips from Seattle

Yosemite National Park

🚗 1,150 miles ⏱️ 23 hours

Explore Yosemite National Park, renowned for its stunning granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias.

Los Angeles

🚗 1,200 miles ⏱️ 21 hours, 30 minutes

Experience the colorful mosaic of culture, vibrant neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks of Los Angeles.

🚗 1,255 miles ⏱️ 20 hours, 20 minutes

Travel from Seattle to San Diego to enjoy the sun, surf, and sand. This city offers a laid-back atmosphere, famous zoos, and beautiful parks.

🚗 1,265 miles ⏱️ 19 hours

From world-class entertainment and dining to renowned nightlife and luxury shopping, Las Vegas offers a non-stop playground for visitors.

🚗 1,300 miles ⏱️ 22 hours, 20 minutes

Embark on a magical journey to Disneyland from Seattle and experience a magical time at its theme parks and shows.

Mount Rushmore

🚗 1,330 miles ⏱️ 21 hours, 10 minutes

Visit Mount Rushmore to see the monumental sculpture featuring the faces of four American presidents.

Grand Canyon

🚗 1,440 miles ⏱️ 24 hours

The awe-inspiring Grand Canyon is a natural wonder offering spectacular views, hiking trails, and unforgettable sunrise and sunset vistas.

🚗 2,260 miles ⏱️ 41 hours

Taking a long-distance adventure to Alaska, you can immerse yourself in rugged wilderness, spot wildlife, and explore stunning national parks.

🚗 3,620 miles ⏱️ 53 hours

Journey to the buzzing city of Miami, known for its lively culture, stunning beaches, and bustling nightlife.

The Emerald Palate

Seattle food tours & retreats

Oregon , Travel Guides , Washington · July 12, 2022

21 Best Road Trips from Seattle When You Need to Get Away

Putting together a list of the best road trips from Seattle was super easy, though it took forever. That’s because there are so many awesome places to visit within driving distance of Seattle.

For example, you can visit three different national parks in Washington, explore the islands off the coast, head south to Oregon, or cross the border to Canada up north. You can plan your whole trip around the outdoors, or you can bask in a life of luxury tasting your way through the Pacific Northwest’s best restaurants, wineries, and breweries.

No matter your preferences, there’s a road trip for you. Get ready for a long list of the best road trips from Seattle, organized by distance with a bunch of ideas for customizing them to your liking.

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21 Best Road Trips from Seattle

Jump to a route, or keep scrolling to browse them all!

• Seattle > Bainbridge Island
• Seattle > Vashon Island
• Seattle > Camano Island
• Seattle > Whidbey Island
• Seattle > Tacoma > Olympia
• Seattle > Bellingham
• Seattle > North Cascades National Park
• Seattle > Leavenworth
• Seattle > Mt. Rainier
• Seattle > Mt. St. Helens
• Seattle > San Juan Islands
• Seattle > Wenatchee > Chelan > Winthrop
• Seattle > Olympic Peninsula
• Seattle > Yakima > Walla Walla
• Seattle > Spokane
• Seattle > Portland > Columbia River Gorge
• Seattle > Oregon Coast
• Seattle > Victoria, BC
• Seattle > Willamette Valley > Eugene
• Seattle > Mt. Hood > Bend
• Seattle > Vancouver > Whistler

Overwhelmed by the idea of flushing out your road trip itinerary?

Let me plan it for you. I offer travel planning services where I create custom itineraries for travelers like you. All you need to do is fill out a travel questionnaire and book any reservations directly.

Seattle > Bainbridge Island

distance from Seattle: ~50 mins | driving directions | best for: a day trip and shopping

Bainbridge Island is one of the easiest road trips from Seattle since the total travel time is just 50 minutes, which includes a pleasant 35-minute ferry ride. In fact, its proximity also makes it one of the best scenic day trips from Seattle .

I recommend spending at least half a day exploring the quaint boutiques, Bainbridge restaurants , and Bainbridge wineries dotting Main Street. The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art is also worth visiting thanks to its regularly rotating exhibitions and great museum shop.

If you’re more partial to a hike, head to Grand Forest East and check out the lush Grand Forest Park Trail that connects to Grand Forest West. You can also walk the grounds at the gorgeous Bloedel Reserve .

If you’d like to plan the perfect day trip to Bainbridge Island, I’ve written an extensive guide to spending a day on Bainbridge island that should prove useful. You can also add on a longer road trip by tacking on Victoria or the Olympic Peninsula to this itinerary.

Seattle > Vashon Island

distance from Seattle: ~1 hr | driving directions | best for: farms and food

Vashon Island will always be one of the best road trips from Seattle, as it’s only an hour or so from downtown (including a 20-minute ferry). It’s packed with artists, restaurants, and boutique shops that give this place an irresistible artisanal vibe.

It’s tricky to summarize all the incredible things to do on the island (which is why I wrote an entire post on things to do on Vashon Island ). But I’d say if you’re here for the day, prioritize doing a food crawl of the amazing Vashon Island restaurants . Many of them are within walking distance of each other, so it’s a great way to spend the afternoon. If it’s a Saturday during summer, you can also hit up the Vashon Farmers Market for a quick break between eats.

To stretch your legs, head out on one of the many Vashon Island hikes, which are some of the best hikes near Seattle .

Shinglemill Creek Preserve is a moderate 3-mile hike that’s ideal for more experienced trekkers. While Point Robinson Lighthouse is a gentle beach stroll that offers great views of Mount Rainier on clear days.

Seattle > Camano Island

distance from Seattle: ~1 hr | driving directions | best for: peaceful retreat without a ferry

To get to Camano Island on your best road trips from Seattle tour, you’ll drive 62 miles along I-5 North from Seattle until you hit WA-532, which takes you right to Camano Island without the need for a ferry.

There are several things worth doing on Camano Island , as it’s home to beautiful beaches and manageable hikes. One of my favorite spots here is Iverson Spit Preserve , which offers over a mile of walking trails and unbeatable views over Port Susan Bay and the Cascades.

If you’d rather spend your day on the beach, head to Cama Beach Historical State Park to sunbathe on some of the most beautiful beaches in the Pacific Northwest.

When your stomach starts rumbling, duck into one of the many Camano Island restaurants to refuel.

Seattle > Whidbey Island

distance from Seattle: ~1 hr and 15 mins | driving directions (with ferry) | driving directions (without ferry, which is ~2.5 hrs) | best for: excellent seafood and wineries

Whidbey Island is one of the best road trips from Seattle and can easily be covered in a single day. Depending on how much time you can spare, either take the ferry at Mukilteo or head north to Deception Pass Bridge and tack on a visit to Anacortes and Skagit Valley (see the road trip itinerary below!).

This location is best known for its excellent food scene. You can enjoy fresh mussels from Whidbey’s Penn Cove at many of the best restaurants on Whidbey Island or spend time exploring Whidbey Island wineries .

When you’re not eating or drinking, step back in time at Fort Casey Historical State Park , keep an eye out for whales at Deception Pass State Park , go shopping in the center of town, or pick up fresh produce at the Bayview Farmers Market if it’s a Saturday.

Seattle > Tacoma > Olympia

distance from Seattle: ~1.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: great art and food

This is one of the best road trips from Seattle for experiencing the biggest metropolises in western Washington. You can also tack on the Olympic Peninsula from Tacoma and avoid a ferry by driving over the famous Narrows Bridge .

Tacoma perfectly blends old and new thanks to its cool shops, surprisingly morbid history, and vibrant art scene.

There are so many wonderful things to do in Tacoma , but I’d say that you should prioritize visiting the Tacoma Art Museum , booking a ghost tour that takes you through various haunted parts of town, and marveling at the Museum of Glass. If you’re staying for dinner, check out some of the best places to grab food in Tacoma and its surrounding areas.

To round off your road trip from Seattle, head to Olympia for beautiful views, a few craft beers, and a bunch of cultural enrichment. There’s no shortage of things to do in Olympia . But visiting the capitol building and trying craft brews in the downtown area are must-dos (don’t miss 3 Magnets Brewing ).

If you’re visiting during summer, be sure to pick up ice cream from Sophie’s Scoops before visiting one of the many local parks or flower farms.

Seattle > Bellingham

distance from Seattle: ~1.5 hrs without stops, ~2 hrs and 40 mins with | driving directions  | best for: tulips, hikes, and history

This is one of the best road trips from Seattle that hits a bunch of places within 100 miles. In just under two hours it manages to pass through La Conner, Mt. Vernon, Burlington, Sedro-Woolley, and Bow before arriving in Bellingham.

Follow this itinerary to experience all of my favorite things to do in Skagit Valley . Or, if you’re short on time, just go right to Bellingham.

La Conner is a lovely seaside town that’s ideal for a romantic getaway. The streets are packed with artisanal boutiques, galleries, gift shops, and restaurants that all readily welcome visitors. If you need to stop overnight, there are also plenty of local inns to choose from.

While you’re here, make sure you stop by the Museum of Northwest Art and the Calico Cupboard Café for a breakfast.

Continue to Mt. Vernon to explore the antique shops dotting Main Street. Don’t miss Perry and Carlson as you shop, a modern gift store and gallery that is a nice break from all the vintage. Stop at Farmstrong Brewing afterwards when you need a break from shopping.

Next stop at Tulip Town to see the gorgeous array of colors during the April blooming season. Read my article on how to avoid crowds at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival to make the most of your experience.

Another great stop is Little Mountain Park . It boasts several hiking trails and picnic areas that help you make the most of the panoramic views of Skagit Valley and the Olympic Mountains.

With the San Juan Islands, Mt. Baker, and plenty of farmland serving as a backdrop, Burlington is the place to be for fresh produce, the tulip festival, and nature trails. It’s also home to Skagit’s Own Fish Market . My favorite stop for a lunch of fresh seafood (don’t miss the oyster ‘po boys).

If you’re traveling with little ones, don’t miss the Children’s Museum of Skagit County which is packed with interactive exhibits. For adults, make sure to stop at Garden Path Fermentation for some brews made with local grain and wild yeast from the Skagit air!

Sedro-Woolley

Sedro-Woolley is technically two towns that were joined back in 1898. And it boasts a rich history that can still be seen in the area today.

Although you don’t need a lot of time here, you should visit the Northern State Recreation Area to visit the abandoned asylums. If you’re visiting on a Friday or Saturday between April – October or December, you can also get afternoon tea at the gorgeous Willowbrook Manor .

Note, this is also along the main road you’d take to visit North Cascades National Park. If you don’t have time to visit during your Bellingham road trip, tack it on to the North Cascades itinerary below !

Bow and Edison are two tiny bordering towns that most people mix up. So many people refer to them as just “Bow/Edison”. The area is agriculturally rich so it’s a great place to stop for artisan cheeses, oysters, and shellfish. Meander the small downtown area to pop into artist galleries and some of the best restaurants in Skagit County .

Your final stop on this road trip is Bellingham . Which is a charming riverside town with tons of B&Bs, stone cottages, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

If you have time, consider taking the famous Chuckanut Drive from Bow to Bellingham for gorgeous viewpoints from the famous Oyster Dome hike , Taylor Shellfish Farms , and Larrabee State Park .

Boulevard Park is a great place to stretch your legs for unbeatable views of the water once you hit Bellingham. Then head to downtown Bellingham to explore the funky shops and breweries. If it’s a Saturday, don’t miss the Bellingham Farmers Market .

I have a whole Bellingham guide of other things to do in the area. If you have time, take an optional day trip to Lummi Island or you can also take a day trip to Mount Baker for hiking.

Seattle > North Cascades National Park

distance from Seattle: ~ 2.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: great hikes and views of the Cascade Mountains

North Cascades National Park is one of the most underrated natural wonders in the country. And doesn’t require a fee to enter. Offering visitors backcountry camping, gorgeous hikes, colorful meadows, snow-capped peaks, and glimmering lakes, it’s a must-visit spot in Washington state.

I’ve created the ultimate North Cascades National Park itinerary if you’d like to make a comprehensive plan. If you want the quick list, Diablo Lake Overlook , Heather Pass Maple Loop , Blue Lake , and Washington Pass Overlook should all be on your list of things to do on this road trip from Seattle.

If you’re traveling in October, make sure to check out the larch hikes located in the park. They make for absolutely stunning photos!

Pro tip: If you do the whole North Cascades Scenic Byway, you’ll end up in Mazama and Winthrop. So you can tack on Winthrop to the end of this trip too!

Seattle > Leavenworth

distance from Seattle: ~ 2.5 hrs  | driving directions | best for: outdoor activities and wines

If you live in Seattle, heading to Leavenworth is a great way to spend a weekend. This Bavarian-themed town is best known for its quaint shopping and proximity to outdoor recreation activities. Like climbing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking.

There’s also a ton of things to do in Leavenworth in winter , too. For example, it has some of the best cross country skiing in Washington . And is close to Stevens Pass for downhill skiing in winter.

You should take some time to hike to gorgeous Colchuck Lake or explore the stunning Lake Wenatchee State Park . When done, head back downtown to try the unique wines at one of the many Leavenworth tasting rooms .

If you’re looking for food, you should make time to visit the best restaurants in Leavenworth . While downtown Leavenworth has a lot of mediocre places to eat, there are a few gems all within close proximity to each other. So you can make a day of it doing your own food crawl.

Before heading back, drive 11 miles to the charming town of Cashmere for antiquing at Apple Annie’s , a spot of golf at the Cashmere Golf Course , and history at the Chelan County Museum and Pioneer Village , which contains over 13,000 Native American artifacts.

Seattle > Mt. Rainier National Park

distance from Seattle: ~ 2.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: nature walks and mountain panoramas

Mount Rainier never fails to take my breath away. And I love it so much that I’ve even created a guide to the ultimate Mount Rainier day trip from Seattle . This national park boasts over 240,000 acres of protected forest. And its central volcano is the 5 th tallest peak in the US at 14,411 feet above sea level.

Most people visit the Paradise/Longmire area of the mountain. Once you arrive, head straight to Christine Falls before schlepping a short distance to Narada Falls . The Skyline Trail Loop is one of the most impressive hikes here. And it’s a 5.5-mile round trip with an elevation gain of 1,450 feet.

If you have time, make the approximately 1.5 hour drive to the Sunrise area of the mountain, the tallest part you can drive up to. Once there, don’t miss the Fremont Lookout Trail accessed from the Sunrise Visitor Center for panoramas over the north side of the mountain. It’s one of the best hikes at Mt. Rainier .

Seattle > Mount St. Helens

distance from Seattle: ~3 hrs | driving directions | best for: hikes and spooky caves

Mount St. Helens is located inside the Gifford Pinchot National Forest to the south of Seattle. It’s one of the best road trips from Seattle for avid hikers. As you can opt for easy hikes that lead from Johnston Ridge Observatory or head to the active volcano area with a permit for a more challenging trek.

If you fancy navigating tricky switchbacks, the Lava Canyon Trail is an exciting pick that takes you across a narrow suspension bridge to a ribbon of pools and a cascading waterfall. If that’s closed or too tricky, check out the park map for other area trailheads.

Another prime spot near the mountain is Ape Caves . This place is the third-longest lava tube in North America. And you’ll head deep underground to explore the pitch-black forest floor and fascinating rock formations that lie underground.

Seattle > San Juan Islands

distance from Seattle: ~3 hrs and 15 mins | driving directions | best for: sea breezes and whale watching

The San Juan Islands are considered the best islands near Seattle . They consist of more than 170 islands in the Salish Sea. But the three islands most people visit are Lopez Island, Orcas Island, and San Juan Island itself. The rest of the islands are privately owned or super tiny with not much to do.

You can do the islands as a day trip from Seattle. But you’ll need to get up early to make it happen, as there’s just so much to cover! Therefore, I recommend making a couple days of it and hitting up as many islands as you can.

Pro tip: If you want to visit all 3 main San Juan Islands, start at the one farthest west and travel east, as you only pay for westbound trips from the mainland. The islands are listed below in that order to help save you money.

Note, you can only make vehicle reservations between Anacortes and the islands. Inter-island travel doesn’t accept them.

Anacortes on thee mainland is around 1.5 hours from Seattle. It’s the city you’ll drive to for your ferry departure. So stretch your legs before you leave by exploring the shops in the historic downtown area and getting lunch at Gere-a-Deli .

San Juan Island

San Juan Island is my favorite of the San Juan Islands. It’s the farthest west and actually almost became part of Canada! In 1872 there was the infamous “Pig War”, but it didn’t actually result in any fighting. Rather, it was more of a cold war caused by American settlers who killed one of the British settlers’ pigs.

The result was each side setting up military camps on opposite ends of the island and giving each other the stink eye. You can visit both camps today to experience not only history, but some breathtaking views.

English Camp is on the northwestern part of the island near Roche Harbor and the San Juan Island Sculpture Park (one of my favorite attractions). At the camp you can meander trails and peruse the English gardens before heading to lunch at Westcott Bay Shellfish . Afterwards, head to Lime Kiln State Park to see if you can spot orcas, as this island is the best for whale watching.

American Camp is on the southeastern part of the island and it’s also my personal favorite. It has the stunning South Beach , Jakle’s Lagoon , and Cattle Point Lighthouse , all great spots for easy and scenic walks.

Downtown Friday Harbor is where you’ll find most of the area’s best restaurants, along with shops and wineries. It’s also the departure point of many whale watching tours. Check out my full San Juan Island guide to get even more ideas of what to do.

Orcas Island

Orcas Island is considered by many to be the gem of this archipelago. When I first visited, I spent my time taking in the views from Mount Constitution (you can see across to Olympic National Park from here!), exploring the cascading falls in Moran State Park , and strolling through the quaint Eastsound Village for artisanal souvenirs and boutique shopping.

Foodies will want to make sure they stop at the Saturday farmers market , Orcas Island Winery , and Matia Kitchen (if you can snag a reservation!).

Check out my full guide to taking a day trip to Orcas Island from Seattle if you want even more ideas.

Lopez Island

This island is super relaxed, yet there’s still plenty of incredible things to do on Lopez Island . Plus it’s the friendliest, considering every single local will wave as they drive by and there are a ton of quaint honors-system farm stands at the end of people’s driveways.

If you’re only going to do one thing here, head to Point Colville . The views of the sea from this hike are incredible and give you undisturbed lookouts over the azure waters.

If you have time, Spencer Spit State Park , Lopez Hill, and the tiny (but charming!) Lopez Village are all worth seeing. Don’t miss a meal at Ursa Minor , the best restaurant on the island and one of the restaurants worth the drive from Seattle .

Seattle > Wenatchee > Chelan > Winthrop

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: mountain scenery and vineyards

If you have time to extend your trip from Seattle to Leavenworth , continue onto Wenatchee, Chelan, and Winthrop for more breathtaking views, outdoor activities, and wineries.

Wenatchee is full of cute shops, nature hikes, delicious restaurants, and an impressive wine and beer scene. It’s also known as the Apple Capital of the world, so be sure to pick a few juicy ones if you’re here during fall! There are so many things to do in Wenatchee , so don’t be afraid to pad your itinerary if you’re not on a tight schedule.

Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan is one of my favorite wine regions in the Pacific Northwest . You’ll see a ton of vineyards lining the slopes of the breathtaking lake, which is one of the deepest in the world. Check out my guide to the best Lake Chelan wineries for my favorites. Then head to the best Chelan restaurants for meals between tastes.

Given, you know, the lake, there are some world-class fishing opportunities here too. You can also rent kayaks or standup paddle boards to experience the refreshing water during hot weather.

There are also many things to do in Lake Chelan in winter . Mission Ridge is my favorite cross-country skiing area in Washington. You can also go tubing here and there’s a small hill for beginning skiers and snowboarders.

Finally, you’ll reach the small town of Winthrop , which is known for its mountain scenery, incredible community vibe, and Wild West-themed downtown area lined with shops.

On your way here you’ll pass by Twisp. This is where all the best restaurants in Winthrop are, so make sure to stop for a much-needed bite.

Winthrop is a bit south of North Cascades National Park , so you can add it to this itinerary if you can’t make it from Seattle in the itinerary above. Note the park is closed in winter due to snowy road conditions, but there are plenty of other things to do in Winthrop in winter . In fact, it has the largest network of groomed cross-country skiing trails in North America and there’s a magical winter hot air balloon festival every March.

Seattle > Olympic Peninsula

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: beaches and rainforest hikes

No list of the best road trips from Seattle is complete without Olympic Peninsula as a destination. I go to to the peninsula every year when visit Seabrook, a quaint Washington coast town at the south of the state. I absolutely love the area and think you will too!

This itinerary takes you toward the north since most people want to visit the famous Olympic National Park. However, check out my guide to the best Washington coast cabins if you want to explore the southern shores.

Also, know that you can get to these locations via Bainbridge Island by driving over the Hood Canal Floating Bridge if you want to tack this onto the Bainbridge itinerary above .

Port Ludlow

Port Ludlow is a good starting point for visiting the Olympic Peninsula because you can stretch your legs after a long ferry and car ride. There are a ton of trails in the area to explore by foot or bike.

On your way to Port Townsend, make stops along the Olympic Peninsula cider route for tastings at cideries using home-grown apples. Depending on the day you’re traveling, there are also farmers markets worth stopping at.

Port Townsend

Port Townsend is a historic Victorian town nestled right on the water. You’ll love the colorful architectural areas of the downtown area, as well as all the cute shops to pop into. You can also visit the Jefferson Historical Society to learn more about the area’s past.

One of the things you must do in Port Townsend is visit Fort Worden State Park . It’s right on the water and offers a bunch of walking trails and beach views. However, the crown jewel is the haunting battery forts that you can walk inside (if you dare, it’s quite dark!).

The batteries were created in the late 1800s/early 1900s as part of the “ Triangle of Fire ” defense strategy. In fact, you can visit nearby Fort Flagler State Park to see another one of these forts positioned to defend the mouth of the Puget Sound.

On your way to Sequim, keep an eye out for the Olympic Peninsual winery trail .

If you’re visiting in July and August, a stop in Sequim is a must to visit one of the many lavender farms during the annual Lavender Festival .

Port Angeles

Port Angeles is considered the gateway to the Olympic National Park given its prime proximity. Use it as a home base for exploring the famous Hoh Rainforest , Hurricane Ridge , and Lake Crescent area. You can also visit the most northern tip of Washington state, Cape Flattery .

You can also tack on Victoria, BC if you want to take the privately-run ferry between Port Angeles and Victoria.

Forks may sound familiar thanks to a little book and movie franchise called Twilight. They have a ton of cheeky references to the movies, including full-sized cutouts of Bella, Edward, and Jacob throughout town, but the main draw is the proximity to some of the best Washington coast attractions .

Some of my favorite stops along the coast are Cape Alava , Rialto Beach , Ruby Beach , and Kalaloch Beach , where there’s an impressive “tree of life” growing over a crevasse. Always check the tides before visiting Washington coast beaches, as it’s not unheard of getting stuck along a path that’s overtaken by water.

Seattle > Yakima > Walla Walla

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: wineries

This is one of the best road trips from Seattle for all the wine connoisseurs out there, as it stops at in two wine regions perfect for tasting the best Washington wines .

No trip to Yakima is complete without exploring the area wineries. There are hundreds in Yakima proper and the nearby towns dotting the road toward the Tri-Cities, but two of my favorites are Paradisos del Sol Winery and Gilbert Cellars .

Besides wine, Yakima is the place to be for museums, orchards, and outdoor activities. Spend hours hiking the Cowiche Canyon Trail and Yakima River Canyon which offered unbeatable views of the water below.

While you’re here, don’t miss the Yakima Area Arboretum which is tucked away between I-82 and Highway 24.

Food wise, don’t miss Los Hernández Tamales , Crafted , and Taqueria la Plazita .

Once you pass Yakima toward Walla Walla, you’ll start passing a ton of smaller towns with tasting rooms and some of the best wine country hotels in Washington . Use these towns as a home base for exploring some of the best Yakima wineries before continuing onto Walla Walla.

Walla Walla

You’ll end this trip at Walla Walla , which is one of my all-time favorite areas for delicious wines. As the entire region spans more than 2,000 acres, I’ve written a comprehensive guide to the Walla Walla wineries to help you navigate this place.

Seattle > Spokane

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs without stops, ~6.5 hrs with | driving directions | best for: small-town charm and natural wonders

If you’re on the hunt for the best road trips from Seattle that are on the longer side, then the Seattle to Spokane route is for you. This road trip features several stops, which allows drivers to take regular breaks along the nearly 300-mile journey.

Don’t have time for all these stops? Cut the journey short and visit the destinations as far as you have the time to travel!

Cle Elum/Roslyn/Ellensburg

The first places you’ll hit on this road trip are the charming towns of Cle Elum, Roslyn, and Ellensburg.

Cle Elum is a small town approximately 96 miles from Seattle. Here you can visit the Swiftwater Cellars for New American fare and 509 Bake House for some of the most delicious cookies, lemon bars, and macarons you’ll ever taste. If you want to stay the night, book the gorgeous Suncadia Resort .

Roslyn is 3.5 miles away from Cle Elum. This tiny town is home to just under 3,000 people and boasts an impressive Historical Museum , a Heritage Distillery , and the sprawling Old Westbury Gardens which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s also perfectly acceptable to just enjoy moseying along the quaint downtown streets and friendly atmosphere.

Ellensburg is 28 miles past Roslyn. This small town in eastern Washington is best known for its annual Labor Day Rodeo, but it also boasts several free museums, historic buildings, and a collection of impressive street art. Before leaving, don’t forget to take a photo with the famous Ellensburg Bull !

Palouse Falls

Once you’ve covered the holy trinity of Washington’s small towns about a third of the way from Seattle to Spokane, drive 130 miles to the cascading Palouse Falls .

You can spend an entire day trekking through Palouse Falls State Park , but travelers that are short on time can drive directly to the falls to take in this impressive natural wonder.

The waterfall itself is 200 feet high and you’ll need a Discover Pass to enter the park. There’s a marked path that offers an excellent view, and you can park in the area right around the falls which lets you make this attraction a quick pitstop before zipping off to Spokane.

The final stop on this road trip from Seattle is Spokane , which is around 103 miles from Palouse Falls. When you get here, expect to be met with plenty of Native American heritage, art, culture, and of course, the tumbling Spokane Falls!

If you’d like to explore Spokane like a local , visit Riverfront Park and bike between urban wineries in the famous “Cork District” .

Seattle > Portland > Columbia River Gorge

distance from Seattle: ~4.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: food and waterfalls

Vancouver, WA

Most people think of Canada when they hear Vancouver , but locals know this is also a quaint town near the Washington-Oregon border. It’s the perfect jumping off point if you want to explore only the Washington-side of the Columbia River Gorge, but it also makes for a good pit stop before heading into Oregon.

There are so many things to do in Vancouver, WA . To start, meander the Vancouver Waterfront in the heart of the city. Then head into downtown to peruse the various boutique shops and public art displays . Afterwards, go on a crawl among the area’s many breweries and wineries .

History buffs will love Fort Vancouver with its walking trails, gardens, and historic village. Nearby is Officers Row , a series of restored 19th century homes that you can enjoy on a self-guided tour.

A short drive from Vancouver, WA is Portland , one of the best food cities in the US. I put together what I consider a perfect Portland itinerary but here are some activities not to miss.

Work up an appetite by exploring the many shops and boutiques in downtown Portland. If it’s a Saturday, head to the PSU Farmers Market , too. Once you finish downtown, make the rounds at my favorite vintage shops: Vintage Pink , Monticello Antique Marketplace , and Urbanite .

From there, head to one of the many PDX food pods for lunch (food crawl encouraged). I map out my favorites in my post on fun places to eat in Portland, Oregon .

Round out your trip by visiting Washington Park , the largest park in the city. Head to the arboretum to see Redwood trees (yes, the big red ones in California). Then check out the Japanese Garden and International Rose Test Garden to be inspired for your own backyard landscaping. If you have time, you can walk the Wildwood Trail to Pittock Mansion for beautiful views of PDX and Mt. Hood in the distance.

Columbia River Gorge

Oh how I love the Columbia River Gorge . It’s not exactly a town, but rather a strip of scenic highway that goes along either side of the canyon that splits the Oregon and Washington state border. It’s one of the best road trips from Seattle for sure, but it makes a lovely day trip from Portland as well.

I have a very extensive guide on everything you need to know about visiting Columbia River Gorge that I encourage you to read. I also put together the perfect Columbia River Gorge itinerary , which you can follow to a tee, or create your own using my Columbia River Gorge waterfalls map .

You’ll make your way from Portland to Hood River while exploring the Gorge. Once in Hood River, check out the area breweries and visit my favorite Columbia River Gorge wineries .

Seattle > Oregon Coast

distance from Seattle: ~4 hrs | driving directions | best for: coastal views

With its rolling dunes, perfectly maintained state parks, and views of the Pacific Ocean that stretch way out into the distance, this is one of the best road trips from Seattle for aesthetes.

Start your adventure in Astoria , which you’ll pass through on your way to the coast. There’s a lot to love about this small seaside town, but the thing that stuck with me was the ridiculously good ice cream from Frites & Scoops . They serve up wacky flavors like hokey pokey honey toffee in traditional Norwegian krumkake cones.

Don’t miss nearby Fort Stevens State Park to see the Wreck of the Peter Iredale. It’s a real-life shipwreck right on the shore that makes for gorgeous photos.

Cannon Beach

Next head to Cannon Beach , which is a great destination for staying a few nights to explore the north Oregon coast. There are a ton of things to do near Cannon Beach , one of the most important being taking a picture of the enormous Haystack Rock looming just off the beach.

Another stop not to miss is Ecola State Park . There are a ton of walking trails and breathtaking views of the coastline dotted with sea stacks.

Seattle > Victoria, BC

distance from Seattle: ~3 – 4.5 hours via ferry | driving directions | best for: historic buildings and great food

There are tons of fun things to do in Victoria, regardless of when you choose to visit. Located on Vancouver Island, you can get to the city via the private ferry in Port Angeles on the Olympic Peninsula. Or you can take the Clipper directly from Seattle to get there in under 3 hours.

Once there, you can spend an entire weekend exploring the charming downtown area’s Victorian buildings, wandering through Butchart Gardens, and strolling through Canada’s oldest Chinatown for souvenirs.

Aside from the incredibly unique things to do in Victoria , the city is also home to seriously good restaurants. When I visited, I was so blown away by the eateries here, that I wrote an entire foodie-focused guide on the place!

Seattle > Willamette Valley > Eugene, OR

distance from Seattle: ~ 6 hrs | driving directions | best for: wine, beer, and biking

You’ll be passing through Portland to make your way here, so add on Portland to this itinerary instead if you can’t make it during your trip to the Columbia River Gorge.

Willamette Valley

Don’t tell Washington wineries, but the Willamette Valley might be my favorite wine region in the PNW. It’s a sprawling area that starts less than an hour outside of Portland and then extends all the way to Eugene.

There are a bunch of AVAs and towns within it, all of which would be impossible to explore during one trip, but I’ve tried to make it easier for you by mapping out the best Willamette Valley wineries . I also have a list of the best Willamette Valley restaurants for between tastings.

Eugene 

Eugene is a cool college town that’s the perfect jumping off point for exploring the lower Willamette Valley wineries and area hikes. It’s a very bikeable city, with a ton of paved trails and few hills. You’ll probably want to book a room at one of the best boutique hotels in Eugene so you can explore it all!

5th Street Public Market is one of the best things do in Eugene . It’s an indoor-outdoor market with a ton of area boutiques, restaurants, breweries, and wineries. If it’s a Saturday, the Lane County Farmers Market will be going on nearby. Then go to Alton Baker Park to walk and bike the paved trails.

Seattle > Mt. Hood > Bend, OR

distance from Seattle: ~ 6 hrs | driving direction | best for: skiing, biking, and scenic views

For one of the best road trips from Seattle that will clock up some serious miles, travel south on I-5 through Portland and east toward Central Oregon.

The first place you stop on this road trip will be Mt. Hood , which is home to several of the most popular skiing spots near Oregon. There are 4 different areas for skiing here, but you can also visit during the summertime for mountain biking, camping, and day hikes to Trillium Lake and Mirror Lake .

After a few hours of driving, your road trip will end in Bend. This small city is regarded for its world-class river activities, scenic mountain vistas, and pristine trails. It also has a pretty serious brewery and food trail scene. My favorites of which I shared in this post on Instagram.

While you’re in the area, take time to explore Tumalo Falls , the Newberry National Volcanic Monument , and the High Desert Museum for a glimpse into the lives of early settlers.

A bit north of Bend toward Mt. Hood is Smith Rock State Park . Stop here for cool rock formations and hiking trails for all skill levels.

Seattle > Vancouver > Whistler, BC

distance from Seattle: ~ 4.5 hrs | driving directions | best for: experiencing Canada and skiing

If you want one of the best road trips from Seattle for visiting Canada, head to Whistler via Vancouver. This route doesn’t take long to drive and covers a couple of British Columbia’s finest cities. However, I put it toward the end of this list of the best road trips from Seattle because it can take closer to 5.5 or 6 hours depending on how long it takes you at the border crossing (though I’ve rarely waiting that long!).

Vancouver, BC

Your first stop on this road trip from Seattle will be Vancouver , which is known for blending metropolitan living with unmatched natural beauty. While there are so many awesome things to do in Vancouver , I always try to stroll through the 400-hectare Stanley Park , hit the cobbled streets of Gastown, and walk along the Seawall .

Whistler, BC

When you’re done in Vancouver, hop on BC-99 north to reach the charming skiing town of Whistler. This place is a serious winter wonderland and is home to a few of the largest ski resorts in North America. It’s also open in summer for hiking and biking if you’d prefer to visit when it’s warm.

If you’re wondering where to eat in Whistler , I have a whole guide to navigating where to eat in the touristy mountain village.

More Seattle trip ideas

Whew, that was a lot! Once you make your way through these best road trips form Seattle, check out these other destinations for even more adventures.

• 35 Best Hiking Spots in Seattle
• Where to Go Glamping in Washington
• Edmonds Restaurants Worth the Trip from Seattle

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Want help flushing out your best road trips from Seattle itinerary? Hire me to create you a custom travel plan so all you have to do is show up to the adventure.

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15 Road Trips From Seattle for the Ultimate Escape

By: Author Vagrants of the World Travel Writer

Posted on Last updated: June 24, 2023

Home >> USA >> 15 Road Trips From Seattle for the Ultimate Escape

With so many fantastic routes and diverse experiences through the Pacific Northwest, road-tripping from Seattle is easy for a little city escape or a big open-road adventure.

I’ve rounded up the best road trips from Seattle to help you plan the ultimate Pacific Northwest road trip adventure.

Whether it’s big cities you crave or you prefer nature escapes, there are so many options out of Seattle.

From some of the best national parks in the US to pristine islands or brewery hopping and shopping in the city, you’re bound to find the road trip you’re looking for.

While some of these destinations make great day trips from Seattle , I give you the rundown on how to expand them into an extended road trip adventure.

Table of Contents

Best Road Trips From Seattle

These are 15 of the best Seattle road trips (some are rated in the best road trips in America ), so you can plan a great adventure from Washington State’s largest city.

Columbia River Gorge

Distance from Seattle: 3 hours Recommended Time: 2+ days

Nestled along the border of Washington and Oregon, the Columbia River Gorge is one of the most beautiful areas to visit near Portland.

It is the perfect road trip destination for outdoor lovers, with hundreds of miles of hiking trails, nearly 100 waterfalls, and dozens of amazing overlooks. 

Start your trip by visiting Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon. Then continue driving along the Historic Columbia River Highway to the popular Waterfall Corridor section. Here you’ll find dozens of waterfalls right on the side of the road.

If you want more, the area has some of Oregon’s and Washington’s best hikes where you can discover more stunning cascade ladened trails.

A great viewpoint in the gorge is the Vista House at Crown Point, where you’ll have amazing views of the entire area.

This road trip will start in Portland and end near The Dalles. After you’ve finished, you can return the way you came or head up towards Yakima and loop around.

A road trip around the Columbia River Gorge can be done in one day if you want, but to really experience it all, plan for at least two days.

North Cascades National Park

Distance from Seattle: 2.5 hours Recommended Time: 3+ days

One of Washington’s three national parks is nestled in the North Cascades mountain range. It’s one of the least visited parks in the country, but it is by no means any less beautiful than others.

North Cascades National Park is a remote wilderness area that is home to some of the most scenic hikes in Washington. You’ll find alpine lakes, roaming mountain goats, jagged peaks, and epic vistas around every corner.

Highway 20, which winds right through the park, is the perfect scenic drive to take in the views. Diablo Lake, as is Washington Pass Overlook, is a must-see pull-off on the road.

As for hiking, Maple Pass Loop and Thunder Knob are two of the most popular trails.

The best route for this trip is to head out on Highway 20 and drive it until you reach Mazama. From there, you can turn around or loop down onto Highway 2 back toward Seattle.

Tip : You can combine this road trip with a visit to Lake Chelan. See further on for details about Lake Chelan.

Olympic Peninsula

Distance from Seattle: 1 hour Recommended Time: 5+ days

One of Washington’s most famous national parks is found on the Olympic Peninsula, just a short distance from Seattle.

Olympic National Park is incredibly diverse and massive. If you want to see it all, it will take quite a few days to cover, so this could be a great road trip from Seattle if you have a week or more.

The Olympic Peninsula is so diverse it’ll feel like you’re traveling through multiple destinations simultaneously.

Starting near Olympia, Highway 101 is a ring road that loops around the entire national park. As you follow the highway, you’ll come across rugged mountain ranges, miles of ocean coastline, and temperate rainforests.

A few of the best stops to make include the Hoh Rainforest, Ruby and Rialto Beaches, Hurricane Ridge, Sol Duc Falls, and Lake Crescent. You can find some of the best hikes in Olympic NP here to help you plan your time.

Bend Oregon

Distance from Seattle: 6 hours Recommended Time: 3+ days

One of the best places for outdoor enthusiasts in Oregon is Bend. It’s the perfect outdoor adventure vacation destination . Situated right at the base of Mount Bachelor and the Three Sisters, the city offers visitors endless opportunities to get outside and enjoy nature, including on some epic Bend hiking trails.

One of the best things to see on your trip is Smith Rock State Park, whose towering rock formations make you feel like you’re in the desert. There are also dozens of caves to explore nearby and popular waterfalls near Bend , like Tumalo, Sahalie, and Koosah Falls.

Mount Bachelor is a hot spot for skiers and snowboarders in winter, and the hiking trails are prime for snowshoeing.

When you’re heading back to Seattle, you could extend the trip slightly and visit Silver Falls State Park near Salem on your way north.

San Juan Islands

Distance from Seattle: 1.5 hours Recommended Time: 3+ days

Located just off the coast of Washington in Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands sit between Vancouver Island, British Columbia, and Anacortes, Washington.

The group of 172 named islands offers a unique escape for visitors. There are a few ways to get to the San Juan Islands, including a ferry, which is best if you hope to bring your car. The ferry port is in Anacortes.

There are many things to do on the San Juan Islands, and the activities differ depending on which island you visit. The most popular are Orcas Island and San Juan Island.

Whether you want to get out and do some hiking or learn about the islands’ history, there’s plenty to do. There are a variety of historic sites to see and dozens of outdoor activities.

One of the best things to do on the San Juan Islands is whale watching, where you’ll have the chance to see orcas and migrating humpbacks in their natural habitat. Although whales are present all year round, the peak season for whale watching is summer – June through September.

If you bring your car, you can ferry hop from island to island for a road trip around the San Juan Islands.

Mount Rainier National Park

Distance from Seattle: 1 hour 45 minutes Recommended Time: 3+ days

Home to the tallest mountain in Washington, Mount Rainier National Park is a must-see and a perfect road trip from Seattle.

Mount Rainier stands at over 14,000 feet tall and is the dominating feature of its namesake park. You can admire views of the mountain from all over the park, including popular areas like Sunrise and Paradise.

A few of the most popular trails include the Wonderland Trail, which is a hike that loops around the entire mountain, Mount Fremont Lookout, the Skyline Trail, and Naches Peak Loop.

If you aren’t a hiker, you can still enjoy Mount Rainier by driving the scenic route, wandering around Tipsoo Lake, and visiting Paradise Inn.

There’s so much to cover around the area that visitors come back time and time again.

For a special road trip, you could pair Mount Rainier with Mount St. Helens, just a few hours south.

Lake Chelan

As one of the largest lakes in Washington, it’s no wonder so many people flock to Lake Chelan for their summer vacations. With opportunities to enjoy water sports or simply relax on the shoreline, this spot is well-loved by locals and tourists.

It’s the third deepest lake in the United States and sprawls for over 50 miles across the North Cascades.

While at Lake Chelan, be sure to check out Lake Chelan State Park, where you’ll find plenty more to see and do. There’s a sandy beach and boat rentals to get out on the water. A waterpark for the kids, wineries for the adults, and plenty of spots to kick back and relax.

Another option is to add Lake Chelan to your North Cascades road trip, as they are in the same area. You could then loop back around and into Seattle.

For a relaxing Seattle road trip, Lake Chelan is a great choice.

Leavenworth

Distance from Seattle: 2 hours 15 minutes Recommended Time: 2+ days

The adorable Bavarian village of Leavenworth is nestled in the North Cascades mountain range along Highway 2. It can be reached two ways – either via Highway 2 or I-90.

For a more diverse road trip, you could make it one big loop and come out one way and back the other.

Winter is the best time to visit Leavenworth when it becomes a magical winter wonderland around the holidays – it’s one of the top places in the US to visit at Christmas . Sparkling lights are everywhere, skiing is open at nearby resorts, and all of the small shops are brimming with perfect gifts.

During the summer, you can embark on the amazing trails nearby – the popular Enchantments and many other great trails are within 30 minutes.

You’ll find lots of people road-tripping to Leavenworth throughout the year, as it’s such a charming town with so much to do.

Portland Oregon

Distance from Seattle: 3 hours Recommended Time: 3+ days

Why not take a trip from Washington’s largest city to Oregon’s largest? Portland is located right on the border of the two states, making it a great base to explore further.

If you like to explore cities, Portland has everything you could want in a city, from endless shopping, culture, and a celebrated restaurant scene. But it also has easy access to some of Oregon’s best outdoor recreation locations.

During your trip, wander around Portland, check out things like the Portland Weird sign and Powell’s Books, and don’t forget to grab some Voodoo Donuts.

Tip : You can also knock off two of the best Seattle road trips in one – pair your visit with a trip into the Columbia River Gorge

You might also be interested in driving to Oregon’s tallest mountain, Mount Hood. You’ll find endless hiking, amazing views, and three epic ski resorts.

Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, Wyoming

Distance from Seattle: 12.5 hours Recommended Time: 7+ days

If you’re looking for a longer trip to explore outside of Washington, then a road trip to Wyoming’s national parks is a great option.

Start your drive through Spokane and then down to Missoula before you enter Yellowstone National Park.

As America’s first national park, it’s a must-see. Yellowstone delivers wildlife in spades, from bison to bears and moose. The best place to see wildlife is in Lamar Valley.

Yellowstone also boasts a fabulous array of hiking trails for all abilities. You’ll find seven of the best Yellowstone trails here .

Next, drive down to Grand Teton National Park, which is almost connected to Yellowstone. Grand Teton is known for its jagged peaks and access to amazing hiking trails. A few of the best are Delta Lake, Scwabacher’s Landing, and Taggart Lake.

A stop in Jackson outside of the park is also a good idea to grab some souvenirs and watch the famous Western gunfight reenactment. There is so much to do in Jackson Hole ; you may want to stay a day or two.

After Jackson, you can head back the way you came or loop down into Pocatello and Boise, Idaho, before heading back toward Seattle. You could then also add a stop at Craters of the Moon and the Sawtooth Mountains in Idaho.

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Distance from Seattle: 6 hours 40 minutes Recommended Time: 4+ days

A unique national park that should be on everyone’s bucket list, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, famous for some of the bluest water you’ll ever see.

Wandering around the park, admiring the water, makes you feel like you’re on another planet. The water is so otherworldly, it almost seems fake.

If you visit during summer, you can head down the Cleetwood Cove Trail and take a dip in the water, but be warned, it’s very cold year-round.

On your way back to Seattle, you have two options; head up through Eugene and Salem or through Bend. 

If you go through Bend, you’ll find lots of great places to stop, like Smith Rock State Park and Mount Hood. Near Salem, you’ll find Silver Falls State Park.

Redwoods National and State Parks, California

Distance from Seattle: 8 hours Recommended Time: 5+ days

Another out-of-state road trip option is Redwoods National and State Parks in California.

Located right on the border of California and Oregon, Redwoods is one of a kind. It’s home to coast redwoods, some of the tallest trees in the world. 

This is the only area in the world where you can find these trees, which is what makes them so special. You can drive through the scenic roads and admire the beautiful trees as they tower over you.

Another way to experience these majestic giants is to get out on a hiking trail. Some short trails will lead you through groves of redwoods where you truly experience their size.

A great option to make this trip even better is to head back to Seattle via the Oregon coast on Highway 101 for amazing views the entire way.

Mount St. Helens

Distance from Seattle: 3.5 hours Recommended Time: 2+ days

Most well known for its 1980 eruption, Mount St. Helens is another popular destination for tourists in Washington. It’s the most active volcano in Washington, which gives it a unique lure.

A visit to the Johnston Ridge Observatory offers unobstructed views of the volcano and the chance to learn about the history of the eruption.

There are hiking trails leading down into the blast zone from the observatory, allowing you to get closer to Mount St. Helens and see its real effects on the landscape.

Another great stop near Mount St. Helens is Ape Cave, the third longest lava tube in the United States.

For an extended road trip, loop around and make a stop at Mount Rainier National Park. This route will allow you to check off two of Washington’s most iconic mountains in just one trip.

Oregon Coast

Distance from Seattle: 3.5 hours Recommended Time: 7+ days

While this road trip from Seattle doesn’t have a specific destination, it’s one of the most popular road trips in the PNW, and for good reason.

The Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful regions of the Pacific Coastline. You can see almost all of it by following Highway 101 from Astoria to Brookings.

Start in Astoria, where the Columbia River meets the ocean. (this is where the Goonies movie was filmed). Then make your way south, stopping in small coastal towns like Seaside, Cannon Beach, Pacific City, Newport, and Brookings. You’ll likely even find a few hidden gems along the way.

A few notable stops that aren’t cities include the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, Cape Kiwanda, and God’s Thumb.

You can return via Highway 101 or make your way through Eugene and Salem for a faster return to Seattle.

Eastern Washington

Distance from Seattle: 4 hours Recommended Time: 3+ days

Although often overlooked, Eastern Washington is a veritable gold mine of hidden gems that tourists miss when they explore the Cascades.

One of the best is Palouse Falls, a massive waterfall that seems so out of place in the desert. You can walk right up to it to experience the power as it drops over the cliff. 

Another must-see is the Grand Coulee Dam, which features a unique laser lights show every night during the summer. Nearby is Steamboat Rock State Park, which has plenty of hikes to the top of the rock to admire the views.

If you’re a concert-goer, the Gorge Amphitheater hosts some incredible artists throughout the year right along the Columbia River Gorge.

There are many routes to take for this road trip, but all of them are rewarding.

Seattle Road Trip Wrap-Up

The only problem with planning a road trip from Seattle is deciding where to go. With so many unique choices, making that decision can be tough.

Luckily, there’s a type of road trip for everyone and every season, whether you explore the charming towns of the San Juan Islands or witness the stunning beauty of the Columbia River Gorge.

Washington Travel | Theme Parks | Travel Abroad | Travel Tips

The 27 Best Road Trips From Seattle: The Perfect Mix Of Cities And Outdoors For Your Vacation

Ahhh exploring the great pacific northwest and beyond but have no clue where to go for your road trip from Seattle? Lucky for you, Seattle, aka the emerald city, is situated on the west coast and can easily make routes to portland, Vancouver bc, California, las vegas, national parks across the midwest and west coast, and more!

However, maybe you want to take it slow though, and start off with small day trips or weekend trips? Well, if that’s the case we also got you covered because we usually take day trips or weekend trips ourselves when taking road trips from Seattle. So we know the best spots to visit when touring by car, while also on a time crunch. If going big is more your style then keep on reading because we covered the best long road trips to take from Seattle!

This post is all about the best road trips from Seattle to take! Whether day trips, weekend trips, or long trips are your style we made sure to have an assortment! Plus, you’ll be able t choose between a mixture of outdoorsy places such s national parks, beaches, lakes, and more cities such as LA or Vegas.

Hold Up! If you’re planning a road trip make sure to check out our Best Road Trip Planner Apps Guide!

Quick Note: All routes listed are the fastest routes, if we listed another route then this is the route that we most recommend taking but it will take longer. You will be traveling through multiple states so please be aware of local laws. Something that is legal in one state may be illegal in another state so beware and be cautious. 

Road Trips From Seattle: National Parks And Other Beautiful Sites To See

Best Road Trip From Seattle: Yellowstone National Park- Wyoming

Trip Duration: roughly 11-13 hours via the I-90 E.

Road Trip Overview: You’ll be starting this trip in Seattle, Washington, and traveling for around 11-13 hours to get to Yellowstone. This all depends upon the traffic of course and any stops you might be making. This is a multi-state road trip as you’ll be starting in Washington, traveling through Idaho and Montana before reaching your destination state of Wyoming.

Things to do in Yellowstone: Creating the Perfect Yellowstone Itinerary is a must if you plan on visiting this national park! This massive park is full of almost limitless outdoorsy things. You can go hiking, watch wildlife and go biking. Explore the geysers, like the famous Old Faithful Geyser. You can also see the basins and hot springs and so much more!

Crater Lake National Park- Oregon

Trip duration: roughly 7-8.5 hours via the I-5 S

Road Trip Overview: Crater lake is a gorgeous unique spot to visit as it was formed by a collapsed volcano. This road trip is roughly 7-8.5 hours depending on any traffic, road closure stops you make and the route you choose to take. For this trip, you’ll, of course, be starting in Seattle, Washington, and making your way south through Washington to eventually reach the Crater Lake National Park in Oregon.

Things to do in Crater Lake National Park: You can go hiking, camping, swimming, and biking. You can also go for a nice scenic drive around the entire lake, this drive is called Rim Drive. While on Rim Drive you can also stop at the various overlooks and viewpoints to take in the beautiful sites, snap photos, and stretch your legs. There are also boat tours available for you to get out on the water and explore the lake.

Grand Canyon National Park- Arizona

Trip duration: roughly 18-21 hours via the I-84 E

Road Trip Overview: Starting in beautiful western Washington you will make your way Southeast through Washington. You’ll travel through a few states like Oregon, Idaho, and Utah before reaching Arizona. You could even take a side route and pass through Nevada, stopping in Las Vegas before heading to the Canyon.

Things to do in the Grand Canyon National Park: You can go hiking, rafting, camping, backpacking, biking, and more. You can take a scenic drive through various routes available, ride a train into the canyon, take a helicopter tour over the canyon or take a desert jeep tour near the canyon. You can also visit the famous skywalk and see the 4000 feet deep abyss right below you.

Best Road Trips From Seattle: Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Glen Canyon- Arizona

Road Trip Overview: Starting in Seattle, you’ll travel through Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Utah and arrive at your destination in Arizona. The reason Horseshoe ben, Antelope Canyon, and Glen Canyon are paired together as a trip is because they are all very close to each other within the same area of the canyon. Getting to Antelope Canyon from the horseshoe bend takes about 10-15 minutes and to get to Glen Canyon from Antelope adds about 55 minutes to your trip. They are all very unique locations to see.

Things to do in Horseshoe Bend: Things to do in Horseshoe Bend: Horseshoe bend is a traveler’s dream, it offers stunning views, hikes, and gorgeous photography spots, and it’s relatively cheap to visit. Hot spots in this area are of course upper antelope canyon which is a beautiful and colorful canyon that is perfect for photo sessions. Along with Glen Canyon Dam, tourists love the views of the water from the dam, so dont miss this destination. There are also a ton more things to do in Horseshoe Bend such as hiking, relaxing at Lake Powel, learning about the history of the area, and more!

Bryce Canyon National Park- Utah

Trip duration: roughly 16-17 hours via the I-84 E.

Road Trip overview: This is roughly a 16-17 hour long road trip but may be longer or shorter depending on traffic, weather, and other related factors. For this trip, you’ll be traveling from Washington through Oregon and Idaho until you’ve reached your destination in Utah.

Things to do in Bryce Canyon: Things to do in Bryce Canyon: Bryce Canyon is beautiful and offers stunning views, that you won’t get anywhere else in the United States. For starters, you’ll want to stop and visit the Bryce amphitheater this large landmark is made up of rock spires that look like pointy long rocks, just like in the above photo. After visiting Bryce Amphitheater make sure to finish the drive along the southern scenic route and you’ll see underrated views that most travelers don’t bother visiting because they think the main attraction Bryce Amphitheater is the only thing to do. However, there are a ton of things to do in this part of Utah, such as outdoor hikes, star gazing, horseback riding, animal watching, and more!

Redwoods- California

Trip duration: 9-13 hours

Fastest route: 9-11 hours via the I-5 S

Recommended route: roughly 12-13 hours via the U.S. Route 101 S

Road Trip Overview: This Stunning Northern California Drive goes through the famous U.S. Route 101 S. This route takes you directly along the coast and through coastal cities. You get amazing views of the pacific ocean for most of the drive. You’ll start in Seattle and make your way South West to get to the U.S. 101 S. Then you’ll follow the U.S. 101 S for the rest of the way driving through Oregon until you reach the Redwoods in California.

Things to do in the Redwoods National Park: Visit the beach and tide pools. Drive through one of the many drive-thru redwoods. You can go camping, hiking, walking, biking, watch for wildlife and enjoy scenic drives through the forest.

Multnomah Falls- Oregon

Trip duration: roughly 3-4 hours via the I-5 S

Road Trip Overview: This famous waterfall is located along the Columbia River. You’ll travel on the I-5 south from Seattle until reaching Oregon and then you’ll follow the Columbia river East to reach this beautiful waterfall.

Things to do in Multnomah Falls: You can go hiking along the trails and visit several other waterfalls nearby as well. You can also visit Nearby Portland and the Columbia River.

Mount Rainier- Washington

Trip duration: roughly 2-2.5 hours via the WA-169 S and the WA-410 E.

Road trip overview: Travel through evergreen forests in western Washington to reach this huge active volcano. Mount Rainier is one of the tallest active volcanoes in the contiguous United States. It is also the most glaciated peak in the contiguous United States. There are tons of hikes, lakes, rivers, and wildlife to watch out for and explore.

Things to do in Mount Rainier National Park: There are tons of hikes, lakes, waterfalls, rivers, and wildlife to watch out for and explore. There are also lots of campgrounds located throughout the park for anyone wanting to brave the wilderness and camp out. 

Mount St. Helens- Washington

Trip duration: roughly 3-4 hours via the I-5 S.

Road Trip Overview: Travel south through Washington until you reach the active stratovolcano Mount St. Helens. Mount St. Helens most recently erupted in 1980 and caused a ton of destruction and clouds of ash and fallout throughout most of Washington. 

Things to do in Mount St. Helens: Go hiking, biking, zip-lining, camping, and more! If interested in volcanic geology, visit the Ape Cave lava tubes, the Trail of Two Forest lava beds, and the Lava Canyon Trail. There’s also June lake which was formed by an old lava flow. 

Olympic National Park- Washington

Trip duration: roughly 2.5-3 hours via WA-305 and the US-101 N.

Road Trip Overview: The Olympic national park is a gorgeous park featuring mountains, rainforests, and old-growth forests. The park features vast amounts of wilderness and so many different ecosystems. This park receives roughly 150 inches of rainfall a year and is one of the wettest regions of the United States. 

Things to do in Olympic National Park: You can go boating, hiking, camping, fishing, and backpacking. There are also ranger-led trips and hikes available. This is a huge and beautiful national park with so much wildlife and so many different ecosystems to watch, explore and learn about. If you love the view of the stunning coastlines then make sure to visit the Olympic Peninsula for stunning views! 

North Cascades National Park – Washington

Trip Duration: Roughly 2 hours to 2.5 hours depending on the route taken

Fastest route: Via I-5 N and WA-530 E/ State Rte 530 NE takes roughly 2.1 hours

Seattle Road Trip Overview:

Things To Do in North Cascades National Park: Take a scenic drive across the north cascade highway which gives you stunning views of the forest. Hiking is one of the most popular things you can do so make sure to stop by at the hiking detours nearby such as ladder creek falls, thunder knob trail, Diablo lake, and blue lake. There are actually a ton of hikes in this part of Washington, but those three are especially popular during the summertime.

San Juan Islands – Washington

Trip Duration: 3.5 hours keep in mind this trip includes a ferry and has tolls

Road trip overview: This unique road trip from Seattle will take you across to the San Juan islands by driving to Anacortes and hopping on the Anacortes ferry to Friday harbor. The San Juan island is home to various activities and is most notably famous for its unique archipelago environment.

Things to do on San Juan Island: When visiting the San Juan islands, you can stop at the lighthouse and stroll along the beach. Then go whale watching to see orcas up close or far, really depends where they decide to swim. There’s a scenic byway that is roughly 236 miles that you can drive through to see stunning views of the island, terrain, and wildlife. if youre are outdoorsy and enjoy hikes then make sure to visit mount constitution. if you love water sports then kayaking and wakeboarding are both popular water activities to do.

Best Road Trips From Seattle: Down the West Coast

Los Angeles- California

Trip duration: 18-27 hours depending on the route taken

Fastest route: roughly 18-19 hours via the I-5 S.

Recommended route: roughly 26-27 hours via U.S. Route 101 S.

Road Trip Overview: This is a multi-state trip and a favorite for Seattle road trips, where you’ll start in Washington and drive down the coast through Oregon and California to get to Los Angeles. The route we recommend is taking the U.S. 101 S. This route takes you directly along the coast where you see the beautiful pacific ocean for most of your trip down the coast. This route takes you through beautiful coastal cities, Redwood National Forest, and through San Francisco. Your pitstops turn into picnics and bathroom breaks by the ocean. If you would like the faster route you’ll drive straight down through Washington, Oregon, and California on the Interstate. 

Things to do in Los Angeles: LA is full of wonderful things to do and even better things to eat! LA is foodie-lover heaven! They have all types of cuisines, but the best part about LA is their commitment to vegan diets. Los Angeles will satisfy your vegan cravings , whether you love Asian cuisine, American style, or delicious vegan ice cream; you and your tummy will be happy.

Visit the Hollywood Sign, hike up to the observatory, the walk of fame, and Santa Monica. Theme parks to visit nearby are Disneyland, Universal Studios umm hello Harry Potter World !, and Six Flags. Plus, it’s Hollywood so you can visit so many famous filming locations within LA itself! Might even run into a movie star while you’re there.

San Francisco- California

Trip duration: 

Fastest route: roughly 13-14 hours via the I-5 S.

Recommended route: roughly 17-18 hours via U.S. Route 101 S.

Road Trip Overview: For this 17-18 hour long drive you’ll travel along the beautiful West Coast. You’ll travel south through Washington, Oregon, and California coastal cities until you reach the big and beautiful Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. 

Things to do in San Francisco: When you’ve arrived, you can visit the famous Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Pier 39, The Painted Ladies, Baker Beach, Lands End Lookout, and the Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience. If you’re a Full House fan you can also visit the “Full House” house. You can also ride on one of the famous cable cars. There’s so much to do in San Francisco that we can’t possibly cover it all. 

Best Seattle Road Trip: Las Vegas- Nevada

Trip duration: Roughly 17-18 hours via the I-84 E. 

Road Trip Overview: This is a 17-18 hour long journey depending on traffic, road conditions, weather, etc. You will be traveling through Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Nevada. 

Things to do in Las Vegas: Las Vegas is a fun place for all ages, doesn’t just have to be a city for adults. While most activities are geared toward adults, there are a lot of fun, kid-safe activities and a ton of outdoor activities in las vegas.

If traveling with children, you can visit the aquarium, the high roller, ride go-karts, visit Hershey’s chocolate world, do indoor skydiving, visit theme parks, top golf, and more! For adults, there’s everything for kids, plus gambling and drinking. If you’re looking for things to do in vegas besides gambling, then make sure to check this awesome guide for non-gambling activities in Las Vegas !

Best Road Trips From Seattle: Best Weekend Getaways

Vancouver- canada.

Trip duration: roughly 2.5-3.5 hours via the I-5 N.

Road Trip Overview: Travel north from Seattle until you reach the border. Here you will go through border patrol and then cross over into Canada once you are cleared. Now you’ll continue to head north until you reach bustling Vancouver , BC. This is a very diverse city with lots of good food and a lot of scenic things to see and do.

Things to do in Vancouver: Visit Queen Elizabeth Park, Stanley Park, Capilano Suspension bridge park, English Bay, and lighthouse park. There’s also a nice scenic drive on Sea to Sky highway to go on. 

Portland- Oregon

Road Trip overview: You’ll travel south through Washington until reaching Oregon. Portland is Oregon’s largest city and is filled with tons of outdoorsy sites. There are a bunch of parks, trails, and bike paths within the city. There’s also a big coffee and foodie scene. 

Things to do in Portland: Visit the Oregon Zoo, the beautiful Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, and Washington Park. There is also the Portland Saturday market filled with food and drink stalls as well as arts, crafts, and jewelry stalls.  

Seaside- Oregon

Trip duration: Roughly 3.5 hours via the I-5 S.

Road Trip overview: You’ll travel south through Washington and then head towards the ocean and keep traveling south again until you reach the coastal city of Seaside, Oregon. Seaside is a popular beach area to visit but keep in mind the waters are pretty cold.

Things to do in Seaside: Visit the famous carousel mall, have a picnic on the beach, go bike riding, hike, golfing, visit the aquarium, go kayaking, swim, and more! Seaside is definitely a small town beach location where you can relax, enjoy the outdoors and enjoy the beautiful sites of the Pacific Ocean. 

Cannon Beach- Oregon

Trip duration: roughly 4 hours via the I-5 S. 

Road Trip Overview: Cannon beach is a popular destination on the coast of Oregon. A most notable feature of this beach is the giant rock, Haystack rock just off the shore in the water. A portion of this beach called Indian beach was most famously filmed in Twilight though in the movie the location was supposed to be La Push beach which is a beach located on the coast of Washington State. 

Things to do in Cannon Beach: Visit the beach and the tide pools surrounding the beach. Go hiking and biking, have a beach picnic, have a beach bonfire, and visit nearby beach cities. 

Best Day Trips From Seattle

If you get tired of being in Seattle, even with the insane amount of things to do in Seattle , taking a small day trip is the perfect getaway for you ☺️.

Diablo Lake- Washington

Trip Duration: Roughly 2.5 hours via I-5 N and WA-530 E/State Rte 530 NE

Seattle Road Trip Overview: The popular Diablo Lake trail is immersed into the sourdough mountain; you’ll find beautiful waterfalls and be able to take pictures and witness views of the north cascades, and finally reach the turquoise blue Diablo Lake.

Things to do at Diablo Lake: This outdoorsy activity is essentially a day hike that is 7.6 miles roundtrip with various switchbacks and an elevation gain of 1400 ft. After reaching your destination, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of Diablo Lake. Feel free to take a swim but be careful and swim at your own risk. Also, it’s a dangerous hike when done in the cold seasons because of the tendency of the snow to melt in spots and cause falls.

Ocean Shores- Washington

Trip duration: roughly 2.5 hours via I-5 S.

Road Trip Overview: Starting in Seattle, you’ll drive south on the I-5 and then head west to reach Ocean Shores. Ocean shores is a popular small-town beach area located along the coast of Washington. 

Things to do in Ocean Shores: Ocean shores is a drive on the beach so if you have a 4×4 or AWD car you can drive onto the beach which is perfect for sunset and sunrise on the beach. You can also go hiking, biking, kayaking, and rent mopeds. You can also visit the sand dunes, watch wildlife and have beach bonfires! Overall this small beach is perfect for a spontaneous day trip or even spending a few days and renting a vacation rental.

Long Beach – Washington

Trip Duration: Roughly 3.5 hours depending on the route you take.

The fastest and recommended route: Via I-5 S and US-101 S at 3.1 hours

Road Trip Overview: Long beach is a small town that features a beautiful long beach across the long beach peninsula. You can also drive along this beach, and we recommend driving an all-wheel drive car. Cool fact, long beach in Washington is the longest continuous beach that can be found in the United States. Also, if you love eating fresh seafood then this beach is your jam! They have a fresh harvest of clams, fish, and other sea critters.

Things To Do in Long Beach: There are a variety of things to do when visiting Long Beach, you can go wakeboarding, parasailing, canoeing, kite flying, and building sand castles. Afterward, stop and grab some delicious fresh seafood and brewed ciders and ales for a relaxing evening ☺️.

Forks- Washington

Trip duration: 3.5 hours via fastest route

Fastest and recommended route: roughly 3.5 hours via the U.S. Route 101 N and U.S. Route 101 W. 

Road Trip Overview: For this trip, you will board a ferry to Bainbridge Island. From there you will make your way to the U.S. Route 101 N, which will eventually turn into the U.S Route 101 W, which takes you the rest of the way to Forks. If this city sounds familiar that’s because it is indeed the city where Twilight famously took place, which makes it a super cool location to visit for die-hard Twilight fans.

Things to do in Forks: There are a bunch of Twilight dedicated locations that you can visit and some that you can drive by, like Bella’s house, Bella’s truck, the treaty line, Jacob Black’s house, Dr. Cullen’s parking spot, and more! You can even take a trip out to La Push beach and Ruby beach. 

Best Day Trip From Seattle: Leavenworth- Washington

Trip duration: 2.5 hours via the I-90 E

Road Trip Overview: Leavenworth is one of the most famous places to visit in the U.S. It’s a very unique Bavarian-style village located in the Cascades. It’s one of those cities that you don’t see every day and it has the darling small-town charm that everyone loves.

Honestly, one of the best reasons to live in Washington is that you can visit so many cool places!

Recommended visiting during Christmas time!!! The Christmas lights and the big Christmas tree are so nice! Also, during Oktoberfest, if you’re a beer lover, there’s also food and root beer available for non-drinkers!

Things to do in Leavenworth: Visit the nutcracker museum, a reindeer farm, fish hatcheries, go kayaking, hiking, rafting, and more! During Wintertime it’s a great place to book a cabin, enjoy the snow, go skiing, and enjoy beautiful Christmas decor.

Spokane- Washington

Trip duration: roughly 4.5-5 hours via I-90 E.

Road trip overview: Beginning in beautiful evergreen western Washington you will travel east on the interstate. It’s an interstate drive but the drive is gorgeous nonetheless. Plus, you get to see the change from green hilly Western Washington to flat and dry eastern Washington. You’ll drive through Snoqualmie Pass and Wenatchee national forest making your way to Spokane. 

Things to do in Spokane: Visit the Riverfront Park, Riverside State Park, Cat Tales Wildlife Center, Wonderland Family Fun Center, Cathedral of St. John, Huntington Park, Latah Creek, Little Spokane River Natural Area, Audubon park, and more! There is also a theme park just roughly 40 minutes away in Idaho called Silverwood that’s worth a visit for some fun! If visiting in October there’s also a Scarywood Haunted Nights event available. 

Yakima – Washington

Trip Duration: 2.1 hours via I-90 E

Road Trip From Seattle Overview: Yakima may seem like a quiet and relatively boring city to visit. it does offer a variety of cider brewing businesses, ale makers, and wine vineyards to visit. We personally love wine tasting and trying different flights of ales and the various small business in this area.

Things To Do in Yakima: They don’t call Yakima the Palm Springs of Washington for nothing (lol Washington Joke). If you love Panaderia el Sollecito for delicious and aesthetic drinks! If you love adventure then you’ll also enjoy riding an inner tube across the Yakima River or the nearby Columbia River. Yakima is also home to authentic Mexican-style food so make sure to try some of the local taco trucks and restaurants ad the Mexican food is delicious!

Perfect Weekend Trip: Tri-Cities- Washington

Trip Duration: 3-4 hours depending on the route taken

Seattle Road Trip Overview: Seattle to Tri-cities is a wild trip as it goes through the wet and temperate west region of Washington to the dry and dusty part of eastern Washington. Tri-cities is home to three cities: Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland. Most people who visit usually spend their time between Richland and Kennewick.

Things To do In the Tri-Cities aka Kennewick, Richland Pasco: The Columbia River is a big attraction for this area, and tons of people visit just to swim in the river, boating, barbecue, take the kids to play on the large jungle gym, and other outdoor activities. If you love shopping tri-cities in the area to be for eastern Washington shopping as the Columbia mall holds a decent amount of shops for everyone. If you’re into music check out the Columbia River gorge for live music and shows!

Seattle Road Trips: The End!

That wraps up our post for the best road trip from Seattle! We hope you enjoyed this post and if you did please share this post via any of your favorite social media ☺️. If you’re looking for other cool things to do in the U.S.A, then make sure to read our other post!

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Quiz: Which San Diego Adventure is Right for You? 

THE BEST ROADTRIPS FROM SEATTLE (A PACKED 4-DAY ITINERARY)

Post summary : Going over tips and places to visit on your next road trip from Seattle!

Washington state is a state that you definitely need to add to your bucket list! 

Fun fact! I actually worked at a summer camp as a boat driver in Washington one summer during college. 

Unfortunately, I did not really take advantage of the beauty of this state and now am kicking myself in the butt for it. I took a few road trips to Seattle while I worked in Washington, but that’s it.

Now, I am having to plan multiple trips back to Washington because there is just too much to see.

In this article, I am going to give you my jam packed , most recent 4-day itinerary for visiting Washington! This article gives you all the details on how to go on the ultimate road trip from Seattle . 

This itinerary is a mix of both outdoor adventure and city experience. Be prepared for lots of fun and beauty!

If you can, I highly recommend visiting in the Fall. The colors are stunning. Maybe I just say that because I live in San Diego and don’t see Fall colors that often, but regardless the scenery is beautiful! 

So, let’s get to it! 

WASHINGTON ITINERARY TRIPS

My mom and I visited Washington in Fall (October) of 2020. We flew in on a Thursday night, so that we could have a full four days in Washington. 

Plan to fly into the Seattle-Tacoma International airport and pick up a rental car directly from the airport. We rented a Jeep Wrangler and I highly recommend renting something equivalent or similar. 

The weather in Washington can quickly change. We were met with all types of weather: sun, rain, high winds, muddy roads, bumpy roads and even snow. 

So, having the option to turn on all wheel drive was a must for us. 

Always be checking the weather as you may need to rearrange your trip based on the forecasted weather. Pack clothes for all weather types as well! 

Considering you will be driving through lots of remote areas, I recommend downloading your directions ahead of time or while you have service before heading out on your first adventure. 

DAY 1: EXPLORE MT. RAINIER NATIONAL PARK 

Fly into Seattle the night before your 4 days in Washington starts and grab a hotel near the airport.

If you are anything like me, you like to save as much money as you can while on vacation. I recommend heading to a local grocery store and stocking up on some food for the week. 

We personally went to Fred Meyer’s for our food and other necessities. See below for a list of the food we purchased. 

Looking for easy meals to make while camping or on vacation?

Day 1 will be jam-packed! Head out early in the morning to Mt. Rainier National Park. This is about a 2.5-hour drive. I recommend waking up early to allow for the maximum amount of time while in the park. 

Now, I have seen and backpacked through multiple National Parks in my lifetime, and Mt. Rainier has to be on the top of my list! It is stunning and a must-see when visiting!

Mt. Rainier National Park actually still has an active volcano!

Begin your morning by doing the Nisqually Vista Trail. This is a great trail for anyone! It is well paved, offers incredible views of Mt Rainier, and is great for the whole family. 

The Nisqually Vista Trail is about one-mile long and is rated easy. 

From the Nisqually Trail parking lot, head just up the street to the Paradise parking lot. From here you will have TONS of hiking options. 

(There is a visitor’s center here as well, but due to COVID it was closed)

We chose to hike to Myrtle Falls. Again, this is a fairly easy hike. From the falls, you can choose to continue on to other trails or turn around. 

We chose to turn around and head to Reflections Lake . 

Make a pit stop at Refelctions Lake before hiking up the Pinnacle Peak Trail . This trail is located directly across form Reflections Lake and I highly recommend this hike. 

The Pinnacle Peak Trail is about 3.2 miles and is strenuous with exposed parts of the trail however, when you reach the top, or the end of the maintained trail, you will be blessed with views of both Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helen!

Plan for this hike to take around 3 hours depending on how long you spend at the top. 

Tip: Bring lunch with you and eat it at the top! My favorite meal is the Chili Mac n’ Beef by Mtnhouse. 

After your hike, you will probably be tired like us haha, so start making your way towards your hotel for the night. 

If it is on your way, make a little pit stop at Narada Falls. It is a short hike to the bottom of the falls with options to continue hiking if you are up for it!

We attempted to find a good spot for sunset , but unfortunately were not able to. We were told Cougar Rock was a good spot, but I would have to disagree. 

Food options are limited near the park, but we had a delicious dinner at the cutest spot about 10 minutes from our hotel. 

Check out Paradise Village Restaraunt. I got a burger and my mom got the Salmon and they were both delicious. They also let me taste their chicken dumpling vegetable soup and it was to die for. 

For lodging arrangements, we grabbed a little studio at the *Gateway Inn for the night. It is located literally right outside the entrance to the park. It is an older place, but we felt safe and clean and it was affordable for being so close to the park!

***Our itinerary unfortunately got flipped upside down due to weather. We were actually going to do this whole itinerary in the opposite direction.

So, just be aware that some of the hotels are backtracking a little bit as we did have our trip perfectly planned out, but had to make some last minute switches. 

If you are able to find a hotel inside the park itself this may suit you better. Due to COVID all the hotels within the park were closed when we visited. 

DAY 2: MT. RAINIER TO LEAVENWORTH

Mt. Rainier National Park has so many different hikes to offer, so make sure to check out a map prior to choosing what you do!

Day two unfortunately consisted of a lot of rain for us. 🙁

Something I am continually learning is that trips don’t always go accorindg to plan. I have had to learn how to adjust the itinerary and still have a great time!

We headed up to Tipsoo Lake as this is supposed to have some epic views, but of course due to the rain we could barely even see the lake in front of us. 

We had plans to do the Fremont Fire Lookout Hike , but decided to pass for safety reasons and headed on towards our next stop. Leavenworth. 

It is about a 3hr 30 min drive from Gateway Inn (our previous nights stay) to Leavenworth. (very little service along the way)

Enjoy the rest of your day exploring Leavenworth ! Trust me you won’t want to miss this town! It is a cute little german inspired town. 

We were actually there during Oktoberfest which was quite fun to see people all dressed up! 

Spend the afternoon walking into the different shops and make sure to do some beer and brawt tasting while there! 

A few shops that I recommend visiting are: The Gingerbread house, Kris Kringle store, and the olive oil and vinegar tasting room. 

Aaannnndd if you are up for it! Get all dressed up and get your photo taken at studio 1890 . This was the perfect rainy day activity! We laughed our little booties off.

If the weather allows for it, then I recommend watching sunset form the town of Leavenworth before heading back to your hotel. 

***Because we visited Leavenworth during Oktoberfest the hotel prices skyrocketed. We chose to stay in the town of Wenatchee about 20 minutes outside of Leavenworth. 

DAY 3: HIKING IN LEAVENWORTH

On this road trip from Seattle, I was personally most excited for this day! I had seen some epic photos on Instagram of visiting the Enchantment Lakes in Leavenworth, Washington. 

We had originally planned to hike to Lake Colchuck, but a few factors had changed our decision. 

The weather forecast did not look good, the hike was rated strenuous and I was with my mom, so we decided to visit Lake Stuart instead. 

I mean, I haven’t seen Lake Colchuck, but Lake Stuart was quite beautiful and felt pretty epic to me. 

Lake Colchuck and Lake Stuart both start out at the same trailhead and split off in two different directions about 2.2 miles in. 

Lake Stuart trail is 8.7 miles long and is considered to be a moderate hike. Here is a great guide to hiking this trail.  

Also, Lake Colchuck is the more popular trail and I am sure it gets crowded. We saw a lot of people doing that hike. We only saw 3 other people when we arrived at Lake Stuart. 

One day it is a dream of mine to do the complete Enchantments thru-hike .

Some tips for visiting either Lake:

-The best times to hike this trail are from June to October due to snow. (It actually snowed on us here)

-Get to the parking lot early. We got one of the last spots and arrived at 830am

-Try to visit on a weekday. Weekends are extremely crowded

-It is a bumpy, unpaved, dirt road to the top. (I was nervous even in my Jeep Wrangler)

-Pack warm clothes as a lot of this hike is shaded and it is colder in the higher elevations

-Pay the $5 parking fee when you arrive. You will get ticketed

-Pack enough snacks and water as this is a long hike with elevation gain

Plan for this hike to take around 6 hours. After your hike, begin your 2.5 hour drive back towards Seattle. 

Sleep in Seattle! 

DAY 4: EXPLORE SEATTLE

Finish off your Seattle road trip by making a full circle and returning back to Seattle. 

Book your flight to depart at night, so that you can spend the day exploring Seattle. 

I personally love visiting the “touristy” locations when I go places, so of course we hit up all the spots. 

Begin your morning by eating a super delicious and healthy breakfast at Bacco Cafe. 

Then walk right down to the Pike’s Place Market! Enjoy looking at all the booths and the views of the water! Maybe grab a coffee to walk around with? 🙂

Once you are done, head over to the space needle. We personally bought the combo tickets for the Space Needle and the Chihuly Glass museum. 

Plan to spend about 2 hours in total visiting these places. 

We ended our time in Seattle by grabbing a delicious salad from Homegrown (recommended by multiple people) and going to Gas Works park.

FINAL THOUGHTS FROM YOUR OUTDOOR LOVING GIRL

Road tripping from Seattle is easy and I hope this article made it even easier for you to plan your next trip! 

I would love to go back and backpack the Enchantments trail in Washington one day!

Have you ever been to Washington? I’d love to know your favorite spots!

Like this itinerary? Pin it for later!

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21 Incredible Weekend Trips from Seattle (within 5 hours)

This guide to the best weekend trips from Seattle lists # great places you can visit within a 5 hour drive of Seattle or less. These trips are great for locals looking to get away or visitors planning an itinerary.

I lived in Seattle for 25 years (basically my entire life). I’ve taken all of these weekend trips a number of times and personally recommend them all!

However, sometimes locals overlook destinations near home because they get “used” to them. For a fresh take on my home state, I reached out to some travel blogger friends for their favorite Seattle weekend getaways.

They shared their favorite places to visit within a short drive of Seattle and what makes each place special.

Keep reading for a list of the best weekend trips from Seattle. Learn the best things to do, where to stay, and other travel tips.

Some links on this blog are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. All opinions are my own, and I only recommend products and services I personally use and believe in. Thanks for your support!

Weekend Trips from Seattle Under 2 Hours Away

1. Snohomish washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 30 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 45 minutes

Recommended by: Kathy from Palm Springs Insider Guide

The secret to flying to Seattle, Washington, is slowly getting out. If you fly into Seattle Paine Field, a small airport so easy to maneuver, 30 miles from downtown Seattle, there are no crowds, no traffic, and quick access to rental cars.

This area is called Seattle NorthCountry. 

Depending on the time of day you arrive, you can either check into the Delta Everett Hotel or head straight to Snohomish, considered the antique mecca of the Northwest.

The drive to Snohomish is 12 miles through tall evergreen trees, then into farmland that provides local restaurants with fresh farm-to-table produce. 

Park your car on or near Main Street and start exploring. You will quickly discover at least two antique stores on each block.

Some of the larger stores have upstairs and provide ample space for them to accommodate 50 plus independent vendors under one roof.  

With the choices available, it is a good idea to consider what you are looking for before you begin your adventure here.

If you are not looking for antiques, it is entertaining to watch serious antique hunters carrying in their arms everything from crochet bedspreads to antique riding horses.  

Need a break? No problem. This town has many coffee shops and bakeries with lovely lounge areas to rest and revive to continue your exploration.

If you are not hungry, head down to the end of Main Street and sit on one of the benches with a view of the Snohomish River.  

🌟 Top Activity: Antique Shopping Downtown

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Vacation Rentals

2. Bainbridge Island Washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 10 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 1 Hour

Recommended by: Me!

One of the easiest weekend escapes from Seattle is Brainbridge Island, a short ferry ride away.

Depart from the Seattle Ferry Terminal at Pier 52 and enjoy a picturesque 35-minute journey across Puget Sound.

Immediately off the ferry, you can explore downtown with its charming boutiques, galleries, and cafes. Art enthusiasts can visit the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, while nature lovers relax Bloedel Reserve or hike through the trails of Grand Forest.

The main draw of Bainbridge Island is the scenic beauty, small-town charm, and vibrant arts scene. From the island, you have panoramic views of the Puget Sound, downtown Seattle and the Olympic Mountains.

🌟 Top Activity: Exploring Art Galleries

3. Whidbey Island washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 35 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 1.5 hours

Recommended by: Tabitha from Travel Compositions

There are two ways to get to Whidbey Island from Seattle. You can drive to it coming in from the north end of the island by crossing Deception Pass bridge or take a scenic ferry ride from Mukilteo to start your trip on the south end.

Langley and Coupeville have small town charm where you’ll find boutique gift stores, cute coffee shops, and delicious restaurants with waterfront views.

Coupeville , with its picturesque historical pier, is Washington’s second oldest town. You might recognize it as the backdrop in the movie “Practical Magic”.

Penn Cove mussels grow here at the US’s largest and oldest mussel farm. Most restaurants around the island serve a bowl of this fresh shellfish, or consider visiting during the Penn Cove Musselfest for cooking demonstrations, samples, and a chowder run.

If you like adult beverages, the island has a smattering of breweries, wineries, and distilleries. Be sure to check out Skein and Tipple for a classy yarn shop speakeasy!

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them busy. South Whidbey State Park, Fort Ebey, and Deception Pass have miles of trails to hike.

Another fun thing to do is rent a kayak to explore ocean coves and maybe make friends with orcas or sea lions. And of course, endless beaches for strolling and combing!

Fort Casey is fun for wandering through the dark corridors and rooms, climbing ladders, and taking in the views towards the Olympic Mountains.

During your weekend trip, stay at the historic lodge, Captain Whidbey Inn with cozy rooms and elegant dining.

🌟 Top Activity: Hiking at Deception Pass State Park

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Captain Whidbey Inn

4. Camano Island washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 60 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 1.5 hours

Camano Island makes for an excellent weekend retreat from Seattle, with natural beauty and a tranquil atmosphere.

Camano Island is a small island in Puget Sound with stunning waterfront views, hiking trails, and pristine beaches, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Some of the top things to do are kayaking, bird-watching, and even whale watching, depending on the season.

In addition, there is a large artistic community with local galleries showcasing the work of talented artists.

From the vibrant arts scene to outdoor adventures and moments of quiet relaxation, this island getaway provides a well-rounded weekend retreat from Seattle only one and a half hours away.

🌟 Top Activity: Exploring Camano Island State Park

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Camping

5. Bellingham Washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 90 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 1.5 hours

Recommended by: Annie from  Your Friend the Nomad

Just an hour and a half north of Seattle you’ll find Bellingham, a thriving outdoorsy college town known for its dozens of local breweries and charming historical neighborhoods. 

Getting to Bellingham from Seattle is as easy as driving straight north on I-5. But for a more scenic route, exit I-5 in Burlington and follow the signs towards the Chuckanuts.

As you cruise along Chuckanut drive, you’ll catch views of sparkling water and distant islands on the left, and the Chuckanut mountains on the right.

There are plenty of spots to stop along the way, but the drive itself is worth the detour. 

Once you’re in Bellingham, consider staying at The Chrysalis Inn & Spa, a luxurious hotel overlooking Bellingham Bay near the historic Fairhaven area.

The best thing to do in Bellingham is get outside! Within a 15-minute drive distance you can choose from dozens of short hikes.

Find the hidden waterfalls at Whatcom Falls Park, walk to a secluded beach at Teddy Bear Cove, walk 2.75 miles around Lake Padden, and more. For longer hikes, head to the nearby North Cascades. 

Some other things to do in Bellingham include walking along the waterfront at Boulevard Park (with a warm drink from the park’s Woods Coffee), wandering through historic Fairhaven, visiting the Saturday morning farmers market, and exploring Western Washington University’s campus. 

Food and drinks are always a good idea, too. The Old Town Cafe is a great spot for brunch and Aslan Brewing Co. is a favorite for local organic beer and good food, but there are so many other places worth trying.

🌟 Top Activity: Local farmers market

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Semiahmoo Resort

6. Tacoma washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 40 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 1.5 hours

Recommended by: Dr. Rachel from TheRxForTravel.com

Tacoma is located just south of Seattle and sits right on one of the many bays of Puget Sound. At less than 40 miles, you can drive, take the bus, or take an Uber/Lyft to get there within 1-2 hours.

If you are looking to stay the night, then the Marriott brand hotels are my recommendation. There’s two: Courtyard Downtown or Marriott Downtown right within Tacoma.

There are so many things to do in Tacoma, that there really isn’t a bad time to visit. It will just depend on what types of activities you like to do.

If you like the outdoors, then head to  Point Defiance Park  in the spring, summer, or fall to enjoy the many activities, trails, lookouts, and gardens available there.

For indoor and year round activities, there are plenty of museums to visit. There’s the Washington State Museum, Art Museum, Museum of Glass, Children’s Museum, LeMay Car Museum and more.

Don’t forget Tacoma is also home to Stadium High School, the filming location for the movie, “10 Things I Hate About You,” so be sure to make Tacoma one of your weekend trips from Seattle. 

🌟 Top Activity: Point Defiance Park

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Marriott Downtown

Seattle Weekend Getaways Within a 2-4 Hour Drive

7. Hood Canal Washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 50 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 2 hours

Recommended by: Dhwani from Trips Around Me

Hood Canal is a picturesque fjord nestled between the Kitsap Peninsula and Olympic Peninsula. The scenic Highway 101 on the western edge of Hood Canal is the primary route to explore this region.

To access Hood Canal, you can take the ferry ride from Seattle/Bainbridge to SR104 and then connect to Highway 101.

Alternatively, you can take the I-5 south from Seattle, weaving through Gig Harbor, Bremerton, and Poulsbo to reach Hood Canal.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find many  things to do in Hood Canal , with family-friendly hikes like Murhut Falls, Rocky Brook Falls and Staircase Rapids, or more challenging trails such as Lower Lena Lake and Big Creek Upper Loop.

The expansive Lake Cushman provides opportunities for swimming, kayaking, boating, and fishing. Scenic viewpoints like Mt.Walker and estuaries along the canal’s shores offer breathtaking vistas. Hood Canal is a haven for clamming and fishing.

For a luxurious retreat, Alderbrook Resort and Spa in Union, near the canal’s southern tip, offers a relaxing stay.

You will also find budget-friendly options through AirBnBs and state park camping grounds in the region. 

The best time to visit Hood Canal is spring to fall, although its relatively snow-free winters make it a delightful weekend getaway.

🌟 Top Activity: Clamming and Fishing

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Alderbrook Resort

8. Olympic National Park

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 110 Miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 3 Hours

Recommended by: Alyssa from An Apple a Plane

Olympic National Park is one of the BEST weekend trips from Seattle!  Seattle’s location in the Pacific Northwest United States makes it a prime location for outdoor adventures. 

One of the internationally known pearl gems of the region is Olympic National Park.

It is easy to visit the national park on a weekend trip.  It is just over 2 hours by car from Seattle to reach the Port Angeles entrance or 3 hours to reach the Forks entrance of the park. 

I recommend beginning your trip on the Port Angeles side, and ending your trip at the other end of the park.  

Some of the best things to do in Olympic National Park include visiting the famous Hurricane Ridge, hiking the Devil’s Punchbowl, and visiting the Hall of Mosses in Hoh Forest.  

Olympic National Park is beautiful during all seasons.  Winter brings snowy adventures, but select entrances may be closed due to high snowfall.  Spring and summer bring lush greenery.  

An  Olympic National Park one day itinerary  can help jump start your planning details! 

🌟 Top Activity: Hurricane Ridge Hiking

9. Mount Rainier National Park

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 90 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 2.5 hours

Recommended by: Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

Mount Rainier National Park is one of the most scenic places in Washington state. Located about 2 ½ hours from Seattle by car, the national park is an awesome weekend getaway during the summer months for lovers of nature and the outdoors. 

The park’s majestic centerpiece, Mount Rainier, dominates the skyline. Considered one of the most active and most dangerous volcanoes in the United States, Mount Rainier’s snow-capped peak is also a popular hike for those training for one of the 7 summits. 

However, the park also offers plenty of easy to moderate hikes that cater to all skill levels. One of the most acclaimed hikes in Mount Rainier,  Skyline Trail , boast breathtaking views at every turn.

The trail takes you through an alpine meadow filled with wildflowers, past waterfalls and glacier fields, and right up to the base of Mount Rainier for a jaw-dropping panoramic view.

Beyond its scenic beauty, Mount Rainier National Park offers a chance for a relaxing weekend escape and a serene break from the city life in Seattle.

Stay within the park at the cozy Paradise Inn Lodge, or book a room at Stormking Hotel, near the entrance to the park.

At Stormking Hotel , you can enjoy a relaxing dip in a private hot tub after a day of hiking and outdoor fun in the national park.

🌟 Top Activity: Hiking

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Stormking Cabin and Spa

10. Leavenworth Washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 140 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 2.5 hours

Recommended by: Kristin from Global Travel Escapades

For those looking for a taste of Europe, a fun weekend trip from Seattle is to visit Leavenworth. This small town is known for its charming Bavarian architecture and is just over a 2-hour drive away.

The small town offers plenty of things to do that are perfect for filling a weekend itinerary. For instance, you can get up close and personal with magical reindeer at the local reindeer farm, which offers group tours.

Or, if you’re someone  craving a bit of wine tasting in the Pacific Northwest , a few shops provide intimate tasting experiences.

And of course, be sure to try some hearty Bavarian cuisine, whether it be a giant salted pretzel or a full meal!

In terms of when to visit, try planning your visit during the holiday season, so you can enjoy the town adorned with festive lights and partake in the European Christmas market atmosphere!

And for places to stay, check out the Post Hotel , a 4-star hotel centrally located along the town’s enchanting streets!

🌟 Top Activity: Explore the Bavarian-Themed Town

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Post Hotel

11. North Cascades National Park

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 110 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 2.5 hours

Recommended by: Tammi from Wander Healthy

North Cascades National Park is a breathtaking wilderness, with rugged mountain landscapes, beautiful alpine lakes, and diverse ecosystems.

You can reach the park with a  beautiful drive  north on I-5 from Seattle to State Route 20, also known as the North Cascades Highway.

The best time to visit is during the summer and early fall, as many areas are closed or inaccessible during the winter months.

Late June through September ensures access to many epic high-elevation trails and the opportunity to witness the gorgeous wildflower displays in the alpine meadows.

The park offers many activities, including hiking, climbing, biking, kayaking, camping and photography. It’s the best place in the state to view larches, which are deciduous conifers whose needles turn a dazzling golden color in the fall.

The brilliant turquoise of Diablo Lake draws kayakers, campers and photographers from all over the world, including locals.

And wildlife lovers can spot many diverse species here, including marmots, deer, black bears and bald eagles. 

For those seeking unique accommodations, the Ross Lake Resort provides a truly delightful experience with floating cabins set in absolutely stunning surroundings.

Alternatively, the Sun Mountain Lodge offers a luxurious mountain retreat with panoramic views and upscale amenities. Both require reservations far in advance.

🌟 Top Activity: Hiking and Biking

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Ross Lake Resort

12. Portland Oregon

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 175 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 3 hours

Recommended by: Heather from Arbours Abroad

Heading south on I5 for about 3 hours, you’ll drive across a beautiful bridge over the Columbia River and be greeted with sights of Portland, Oregon . 

Famed for its food trucks and “hipster” culture, Portland is a foodie’s paradise and the perfect escape to a city with outdoor charm.

I recommend staying right downtown at McMenamins Crystal Hotel where you can enjoy the hot tub, sauna, and a pint from the pub after a day exploring the city.

And as an extra bonus, staying at McMenamins Crystal Hotel gives you free parking in the heart of downtown Portland. 

While there are loads of  things to do in Portland , the following are absolute musts.

Be sure to do some thrift shopping, head to the famous Powell’s City of Books, and grab some wacky, yet delicious donuts from Voodoo Donuts.

For those looking for some fresh air, visit the Columbia River Gorge for amazing hikes and river views. For an outdoor adventure in the city, you can’t go wrong with the International Rose Test Garden.

Alternatively, take a stroll along the riverfront. And don’t forget to catch an amazing sunset from Pittock Mansion with views of Mount Hood. 

Portland is great year round, but wet weather awaits if you visit in the winter.

🌟 Top Activity: Powell’s Bookstore

🏨 Recommended Hotel: McMenamins Crystal Hotel

13. Chelan Washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 180 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 3.5 hours

Chelan Washington is one of my favorite places in the world. I get there every opportunity I can, usually 3-5 times per year.

In the summer, Chelan is the perfect place for boating and relaxing lake days. The weather is often very sunny and warm.

In the winter, Chelan turns into a snowy paradise. There is snow tubing, cross country skiing, and beautiful views of the snowcapped mountains.

All year round, my favorite thing to do in Chelan is wine tasting at the local wineries. Around 15 years ago, all the apple orchards began converting to vineyards. Now, Chelan is one of the most popular wine regions in the Pacific Northwest.

Overall, a weekend in Chelan is perfect for spending time outside, enjoying small town life, and sipping the best wine.

🌟 Top Activity: Wine Tasting

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Campbell’s Resort

14. San Juan Islands

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 110 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 3.5 hours

One of my favorite weekend getaways from Seattle are the San Juan Islands. They’re only a few hours away but feel like a whole new world with amazing ocean views, small town charm, and a laid back atmosphere.

Start your adventure with a scenic ferry ride from Anacortes, soaking in the stunning Pacific Northwest views.

Once you step foot on San Juan Island, immerse yourself in the charm of Friday Harbor, the main town on the island. Explore quirky shops, art galleries, and indulge in the freshest seafood.

Don’t miss the chance to witness orcas in their natural habitat through a whale-watching excursion or a kayaking tour.

For a more active trip, hop over to Orcas Island and hike up to the summit of Mount Constitution in Moran State Park for breathtaking panoramic views.

Whether you’re savoring local flavors or marveling at the island’s natural beauty, a weekend in the San Juan Islands offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Snug Harbor Resort

15. Vancouver, BC, Canada

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 150 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 3.5 hours

Recommended by: Karen from Forever Karen

Vancouver is a great weekend destination for its stunning scenery, diverse culture, and excellent dining options.

Driving from Seattle to Vancouver, British Columbia takes almost 3 1/2 hours. You typically take Interstate 5 (I-5) North, which becomes Highway 99 once you cross the border.

While you can visit Vancouver year-round, travelers flock to the city in winter to enjoy snowboarding and skiing on Grouse, Cypress, and Seymour Mountains.

The world-class ski hills were home to the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. 

If you spend a  few days in Vancouver  in the summer, you can participate in hiking, exploring Stanley Park, and savoring the outdoors.

The Grouse Grind, Mother Nature’s Stairmaster trail, tests your skill on a grueling hike to the peak of Grouse Mountain.

Staying at the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel gives you easy access to tourist hot spots. You can walk to Gastown, the Harbour Centre Lookout, and the Olympic Cauldron.

From downtown, a complimentary shuttle provides transportation to the north shore, where you can visit the ever-popular Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.

The park attracts locals and visitors to cross its wobbly bridge and enjoy the Treetop Adventures in summer.

In winter, the park hosts ‘Canyon Lights,’ when the attraction features thousands of twinkling lights, which you can enjoy with Christmas carols.

🌟 Top Activity: Exploring Stanley Park

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Fairmont Waterfront Hotel

Seattle Weekend Trips 4-6 Hours From The City

16. Cannon beach Oregon

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 200 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 4 hours

Recommended by: Jessica from Uprooted Traveler

Cannon Beach, along the northern Oregon coast, offers a charming downtown, hikes through lush coastal forests, and one of the most iconic beaches on the west coast. 

Located four hours southeast of Seattle, there’s tons of  things to do in Cannon Beach  to keep you busy for the weekend.

Most travelers start, of course, at the namesake beach itself. During low tide, you can actually walk out to the 235-foot tall Haystack Rock, an enormous basalt sea stack jutting out of the ocean and admire the tide pools and colorful sea life surrounding it.

If you’re visiting during the warmer months, consider having a campfire on the beach at sunset—there’s nothing more magical than being warmed by the campfire and watching the sun sink into the Pacific (just check to make sure there aren’t any fire restrictions in place!). 

If you’re looking to get your heart rate up, there’s several incredible hiking trails in the area to enjoy. For example, the Crescent Beach Trail in Ecola State Park takes you through a dense forest down to a secluded beach you’re likely to have all to yourself.

Alternatively, the Cape Falcon Trail, in Oswald West State Park, leads you around the rim of a dramatic cliff, offering stunning views of the surfers at Short Sand Beach below. 

During your stay, consider making the Hallmark Resort and Spa your home base. Not only is it the closest hotel to Haystack Rock, but also has some seriously awesome benefits, like warm cookies at check-in.

🌟 Top Activity: Walking the Beach to Haystack Rock

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Hallmark Resort and Spa

17. Whistler, BC, Canada

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 220 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 4 hours

Recommended by: Kimberly from The Art of Living in Turkey

One of my favorite trips while visiting my parents in Seattle was a trip up to Whistler, Canada with a couple of friends.

While you can take a bus, I definitely prefer a good old fashioned road trip. Depending on where you’re leaving from it is roughly 4 hour drive. 

We stayed at this great little bed and breakfast called  Whistler Mountain House . We had the most incredible view of the mountains from our room. The couple running it was super sweet and the breakfast was so tasty. 

As for when to visit, I think it depends on what you want to do. My friend really wanted to mountain bike so we went in the summer.

The weather was perfection. The mountain biking area is available in the summer and turns into a ski resort in the winter. 

But the other thing we did, which I only recommend to the brave at heart, was Grouse Grind. We were all fairly fit at this point and it was brutal!

Simultaneously it was stunning. It is a really steep hike up the side of this mountain. It didn’t help that kids were running past all of us as we panted and were ready to faint. 

If you’re looking for something to do/be outdoors the summer is perfect. If you wanna ski and snuggle in during the winter then you’ll enjoy that too!

Unfortunately, I didn’t get to go back before I  moved to Turkey  but it is on my list of places to revisit for sure. 

🌟 Top Activity: Skiing or Mountain Biking Depending on the Season

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Fairmont Chateau Whistler

18. White Salmon Washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 230 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 4 hours

If you’re looking for an adventurous weekend vacation, I highly suggest White Salmon Washington. White Salmon Washington is a small town along a river of the same name.

It’s located on the southern border of the state, near Hood River Oregon and Mount Saint Helens. Due to the location, there are a ton of great outdoor activities.

The top reason to travel to White Salmon is for white water river rafting . The White Salmon River has some of the best river rafting in the state, with a mix of Class III and IV rapids.

You can even raft down the second largest commercially run waterfall in the world!

🌟 Top Activity: Whitewater Rafting

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Vacation Rental

19. Salt Spring Island, BC, Canada

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 165 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 4.5 hours

Recommended by: Jessica,  nextupadventure.com

Salt Spring Island is a beautiful Island located in the Southern Gulf Islands of British Columbia. 

You can get to Salt Spring Island in about 4 hours total time, including a ferry trip from mainland British Columbia. 

Depending on your preferred travel style, there are multiple ways to get to Salt Spring Island from Seattle including flying and getting incredible views on a float plane, driving, or a combination of ferries. 

You can fly on  Harbour Air , direct from Seattle to Vancouver, and then either fly from Vancouver to Salt Spring, or take a  ferry  from Vancouver over to Salt Spring. 

As a quicker route,  Kenmore Air  offers direct flights from Seattle to Salt Spring Island.  

Although Salt Spring is a small island, unless you stay right in the main harbour, you will likely want a car to explore the island. 

Salt Spring Island is charming all year round.  Because it is part of the PNW, it is wet and relatively warm during the winter months, and sunny and hot in the summer months! 

The island is filled with hiking trails, small locally owned businesses, delicious restaurants, a variety of ocean beaches (sandy, rocky, tidepools and sea life), as well as many artisans ,farms, and spas.  

My top 3 picks for things to do on Salt Spring are to either drive to the top of Mount Gardener to take in the views or hike the hidden gem Reginald Hill (at sunset on a sunny day), jump or paddleboard in one of the multiple lakes on the island, and visit a spa for a Scandinavian Spa experience/cold dip!

Lightwater Cove  is a luxury oceanfront sanctuary with gardens and orchards on the property. The land at Lightwater Cove is surrounded by hundreds of acres of forest trails and a marine park reserve—and many island-made foods, wine, crafts and art.

🌟 Top Activity: Exploring the Rocky Beaches

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Lightwater Cove

20. Victoria, BC, Canada

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 110 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 5 hours

Recommended by: Lisa Garrett of Waves and Cobblestones

There are plenty of  fantastic things to do in Victoria  to fill a weekend or more! 

Known as Canada’s ‘Garden City’, Victoria’s natural beauty and gardens are unparalleled.  The stunning Butchart Gardens are just a half-hour drive from Victoria and are well worth the trip, even if you’re not an avid gardener.

Within the city, most of Victoria’s top attractions are located within easy walking distance.  Tour the Legislative Assembly building, visit Canada’s oldest Chinatown, and check out the Totem poles in Thunderbird Park. 

The best way to get from Seattle to Victoria is by driving there, although you’ll also need to take a ferry to cross to Victoria.

The journey will take you just under five hours. Stay at the iconic Fairmont Empress , and top off your experience with a splendid afternoon tea.

Victoria is the warmest place in Canada, but for the best weather plan to visit in the months of May through September. 

You’ll have fewer chances of rainy days, plus you’ll have plenty of time for sightseeing on those long summer days!

🌟 Top Activity: Butchart Gardens

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Fairmont Empress

21. Spokane Washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle : 280 miles | 🚗 Drive Time from Seattle : 5 hours

Recommended by: Laura from Hi Friends It’s Laura

Spokane is a wonderful place to plan a weekend away from  Seattle . Spokane is an easy five hour drive from Seattle in Eastern Washington, or you can take a scenic tour through the mountains and across the palouse on Amtrak.

The Historic Davenport Hotel is  the place to stay, offering a blend of mid-range luxury and historic charm, situated in the heart of downtown. 

In Spokane, walk along the Riverfront Park, to see the Spokane River cascade over the rocks at Spokane Falls.

The park offers a number of scenic viewpoints of the river, or you can take a gondola to take in the view from above.

Make a stop at the iconic Radio Flyer wagon statue, where kids (and kids at heart) can slide down the handle.

Extend your afternoon by exploring the iconic Centennial Trail for breathtaking views of the Spokane River or rent a bike to cruise the path along the river. 

Spokane has a number of wine tasting rooms, craft breweries and farm to table restaurants. Enjoy a glass of Washington pinots at Helix Wines, and dinner at Gander & Ryegrass.

The best time to visit is during spring and fall, when the weather is mild and you can enjoy all that Spokane has to offer.

🌟 Top Activity: Riverfront Park

🏨 Recommended Hotel: Historic Davenport

Map of these Seattle Weekend Getaways

Getting to seattle.

If you aren’t based in Seattle, you may be wondering how to get to Seattle in the first place.

The best way to get to Seattle is by plane. There are numerous international and domestic airlines that offer flights to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).

If your weekend trip is to the North of the city, you can also fly into a smaller airport, Paine Field (PAE).

You can also take a bus or a train to get to Seattle from nearby cities, though these options may require a longer journey.

Seattle Driving Tips

Do i need a rental car.

I highly recommend renting a car for any of these weekend trips from Seattle. The public transportation from the city is often slow and does not have direct connections to many places on this list.

Having a rental car will also allow you to travel at your own pace and make additional stops on your way to and from the city.

Seattle Traffic

Seattle traffic is notoriously horrible. If you get stuck in traffic add 1-2 hours to the estimated drive times above.

To avoid traffic, I recommend traveling outside of rush hour on the weekdays from 7-10 am and 3-6 pm.

Traffic is also heavy on Sundays as people return from their own weekend trips. Travel early in the morning before 9 am or in the evening after 7 pm to avoid the rush.

Summary of the Best Weekend Trips from Seattle WA

What you should take away from this post is there are many amazing weekend trips to take from Seattle. There are some only one hour away such as Bainbridge or Snohomish that provide a quick and easy break from city life.

You can travel further to Whistler or Cannon Beach for a completely different atmosphere for the weekend.

Whether you are interested in art, hiking, wine tasting, relaxing on the beach, or all of those things, there’s a perfect weekend trip for you.

If you live in or around Seattle, I highly encourage you to try out as many of these weekend trips as you can!

If you’re visiting, these weekend trips are a great way to extend your vacation. Be sure to also read my guide to what to do in Seattle to maximize your time in the city.

Related Posts:

• Planning A Trip To Washington State: Insider Tips From A Local
• The Best Seattle Weekend Trip Guide & Itinerary From A Local
• What To Do In Chelan: Complete Travel Guide To Chelan Washington
• Camano Island Camping Guide & Travel Tips
• Ocean Shores Getaway: Weekend Itinerary And Travel Guide
• Whidbey Island Day Trip Complete Guide And Itinerary
• Things To Do In Mount Rainier National Park: Complete Visitors Guide

Pin for Later:

• Planning a Trip to Washington State: Insider Tips from a Local
• What to Wear in Puerto Vallarta: Women’s Mexico Packing List
• What to Wear to Disney World: Outfit Ideas for Each Park
• The Best Disney World Hollywood Studios One Day Itinerary

Lauren is the creator of The Traveling Moore blog. She's travel obsessed, having been to nearly 50 countries and all 7 continents. She has a full time corporate job, and loves showing others that it's still possible to travel the world with limited PTO hours. Lauren is also travel hacking obsessed, finding every way to travel more often and more luxuriously.

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36 Epic Day Trips From Seattle (Sorted by Distance)

Post Summary: Incredible Day Trips From Seattle, Washington

Seattle feels like it was situated in the perfect spot for adventure .

While there is an abundance of fun activities to do (like, check out all these free things to do in Seattle !), Berty and I couldn’t help but plan exciting adventures just outside the city limits every chance we got.

We are so incredibly lucky to have our pick of mountains, rainforests, and ocean in any direction we choose. In this post, we’re sharing the best Seattle day trips that you can easily manage in a day. You’re bound to find something on this list for your next family adventure!

The Best Day Trips From Seattle, Washington From Nearest To Farthest

For your browsing convenience….

We’re going to be breaking down this list by distance and time required. This way, it’s a lot easier to choose which of these epic day trips from Seattle fit your time frame and distance. Here are our sections broken-down:

Short Trips: A few hours to spare, short drives from Seattle, less than 1 hour

Medium Trips: Half-day trips from Seattle, between 1-3 hours of driving

Long Trips: Full day trips from Seattle, over 4 hours of driving

We hope you enjoy it!

Short Day Trips From Seattle (Less Than 1 Hour Away)

1. bellevue, washington.

Distance From Seattle: 15 minutes, 10 miles

For family day trips from Seattle with minimal time spent in the car, just drive across Lake Washington to Bellevue! Here, there are things to do all year. In the winter, stay indoors and explore the Kid’s Quest Children’s Museum , or spend some time wandering the shops around Bellevue Square.

When the weather is nice out, stop by the Bellevue Botanical Gardens , Meydenbauer Bay Park , or even Kelsey Creek Farm (with farm animals and historic barns!).

Bellevue is similar to Seattle in climate, so use our Seattle packing list to make trip planning easier!

2. Issaquah, Washington

Distance From Seattle: 20 minutes, 17 miles

A quick drive to Issaquah makes for another really easy day trip from Seattle, only 20 minutes away! There are a lot of outdoor recreation opportunities around Issaquah, including Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, Lake Sammamish State Park, and the Squak and Tiger Mountains.

It’s a great day trip to take if you are seeking out short hikes to train for bigger adventures, or simply want some time out in nature!

3. Woodinville, Washington

Distance From Seattle: 25 minutes, 20 miles

Looking for day trips from Seattle to take after you get off work? Woodinville is the place for you! Here, there is a high concentration of gorgeous estates and wineries, perfect for meeting up with your girlfriends at the end of the day. It’s not called Woodinville Wine Country for nothing!

Some of the most popular places to visit in Woodinville are Chateau St. Michelle, Columbia Winery, and Novelty Hill – Januik Winery. If you come in the summer, plan it around one of Chateau St Michelle’s outdoor summer concerts !

Not ready for date night to end? Plan a quick and convenient overnight staycation and book a night and the gorgeous Willows Lodge , right in downtown Woodinville.

4. Snoqualmie Falls

Distance From Seattle: 30 minutes driving, 30 miles

While it shares the same name as Snoqualmie Pass, the waterfall is its own attraction completely !

This trip is a quick drive from Seattle – only 30 minutes. It’s easily accessible for the whole family, with boardwalks and short trails to explore that have lots of views of the falls! The best time to come visit is during late spring or after heavy rain when the water levels are high.

Other Seattle day trip ideas near the area? Visit Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park and Tiger Mountain State Forest for a little more time in nature.

Don’t have access to a car? You can easily book day tours from Seattle via bus or a small van from downtown!

5. Future of Flight Aviation Center

Distance from Seattle: 30 minutes, 25 miles

The Future of Flight Aviation Center is a guided tour through the aviation center and education area of the Boeing complex, near Paine Field in Mukilteo, Washington. The area includes interactive exhibits, a theater, and cafe, and gift shops.

This is a great activity to do with kids who like machines, or simply as adults who want to know more about this influential business in Washington State!

Note: The Boeing Factory Tour is currently not in operation . However, this could change, so stay updated on the news by subscribing to their newsletter .

6. North Bend, WA

Distance From Seattle: 32 minutes, 30 miles

Similar to Snoqualmie Falls and the I-90 Corridor, North Bend is an adventure-centered small town located at the base of the Cascade Mountains, just outside of Seattle! It’s one of the best places for hiking day trips from Seattle , showcasing waterfalls, rivers, mountains, and overlooks!

The most popular trails to take are Mount Si and Little Si. Other popular hiking spots in North Bend include Twin Falls, Three Forks Natural Area, and Rattlesnake Mountain.

If you love TV shows set in the Pacific Northwest like we do, plan to stop in for lunch at Twede’s Cafe , which was used as the Double R Diner in the popular Twin Peaks series.

7. Tacoma, Washington

Distance From Seattle: 35 minutes driving, 33 miles

Tacoma is one of the best family day trips from Seattle. Not only is it convenient and easy to reach (just hop on I-5!) there are tons of activities that will keep the whole crew entertained.

Check out the Point Defiance Zoo and Point Defiance Park, the Children’s Museum of Tacoma , and the many beautiful parks and green areas that dot the city.

For kids that are a little older, check out the famous Dale Chihuly Collection in the Tacoma Art Museum . It’s a collection dedicated in 1997 to members of his immediate family.

For the active family, rent some bikes and cruise down Ruston Way as you search for delicious treats or lunch!

8. Snohomish County, Washington

Distance from Seattle: 45 minutes, 30 miles

Snohomish Washington provides the surrounding area with an abundance of opportunities to pick fresh produce, try the local wine, and enjoy the bounty of Western Washington growers! Depending on what time of year you visit, here are some suggestions for your day outings:

• Day trips from Seattle in winter: Try some cozy eateries in Historic Downtown Snohomish, tastings Randolph Cellar Wineries .
• Snohomish spring activities: Bike the Snohomish Centennial Trail (30 miles), and take a farm tour of Alpacas from Mars .
• Snohomish summer activities: Go berry picking at Mountainview Blueberry Farm
• Fall activities in Snohomish: Pick out pumpkins and go through the maze at Thomas Family Farm

9. Fort Nisqually Living History Museum

Distance from Seattle : 50 minutes, 40 miles

While also located in Tacoma, Fort Nisqually Living History Museum is a day trip from Seattle all on its own! This fort was established in 1833 by the Hudson’s Bay Company, and while the original location was in DuPont, the museum on Point Defiance is a re-creation of what it was like in the past.

Here, people are dressed up in period clothing, and there are frequent workshops to learn how to craft items, hear stories, and learn about the history of the people of this time in the Puget Sound.

This is a great day trip from Seattle for families who want to bring their kids to learn about local history. Get your tickets for admission here !

10. Bainbridge Island

Distance from Seattle: 52 minutes, 10 miles across the Puget Sound (Ferry ride)

A day trip to Bainbridge Island is one of the most convenient day trips from Seattle without a car. It’s ideal for families because getting there just requires a ferry ride!

Load on the ferry from downtown Seattle, and you’ll arrive right downtown, with walkable access to cute cafes, shops, and museums.

Pop into the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art for some local inspiration, and then keep walking along Main Street (Winslow Way) to grab a bite to eat. Our favorites are Mora Iced Creamery , Bruciato Pizza , and Blackbird Bakery ! For even more stories about the area, visit the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum .

11. Bloedel Reserve

Distance from Seattle: 1 hour (via ferry), 16 miles

If you are a fan of gardening like I am, you’ve GOT to check out the Bloedel Reserve ! While this is also located on Bainbridge Island, it does require you to take your car on the ferry, as it’s located on the northernmost side of the island.

The Bloedel Reserve is one of the 10 best North American botanical gardens, and a stunning display of Pacific Northwest native plants, landscape design, and natural beauty. It’s a great place for some peace and tranquility – the space is designed to be a “quiet, immersive experience in nature.” It’s one of the best day trips from Seattle in fall, because the trees will be bursting with color!

If you or your family have a hard time with sensory overload, this is the perfect place to plan a day trip from Seattle.

Make sure to plan your trip accordingly, to mitigate crowds, timed-ticketed are required. Walk-ups are not permitted so you’ll need to do a bit of advanced planning before heading over here.

12. Lakewold Gardens

Distances from Seattle: 45 minutes, 42 miles

If you’re looking for a unique and easy day trip from Seatle, head to the Lakewold Gardens ! General admission is $10 and youth tickets are $5.

Lakewold Gardens has activities during all seasons. Come in the fall to see the beautiful reds, oranges, and yellows on the trees. Spend spring and summer wandering around the grounds to see the various in-season blooms.

Finally, come in the wintertime to celebrate Solstice Lights , which illuminate the grounds with music, light, and laughter.

13. Gig Harbor

Distance from Seattle: 45 minutes, 45 miles

If you’re craving time by the water, the darling coastal town of Gig Harbor is a great Seattle day trip option. Only a 45-minute to 1-hour drive on I-5 transports you to a charming town with a marina, cute shops, and lots of ways to enjoy the water.

During the summer season, you can rent paddleboards and boats from Lee’s SUP (located near Anthony’s restaurant) and go boating in the marina. For a date night along the water, schedule a boat cruise to learn more about the harbor and the sound at Destiny Harbor Tours.

Winter in Gig Harbor is fun and festive, with lots of holiday celebrations happening during the month of December. It’s also common to visit parks year-round. Walk to Skansie Brothers Park on a clear day for views of the marina. Too cold to be outside? Visit the Harbor History Museum !

Read More: Fun Outdoor Activities To Do In Pierce County

14. Wallace Falls

Distance From Seattle: 58 minutes, 47 miles

Wallace Falls is one of the most convenient hikes near Seattle and a great activity for the whole family. It’s one of the best day trips from Seattle if you’re looking for a nearby hike!

Wallace Falls trail has a little bit of everything the PNW is known for – lush ferns, rushing rivers, majestic waterfalls (yes, there are a few drops to see!), and tall trees and moss everywhere you look!

You’ll definitely work up a sweat on this hike – it can get quite steep at times! Pack lots of water and snacks, and take a break whenever you feel like it.

Planning a winter day trip from Seattle? Continue east on Highway 2 to go skiing at Stevens Pass after your hike!

Read More: 15 Easy and Delicious HIking Snacks To Pack On The Trail

15. Snoqualmie Pass

Distance From Seattle: 52 minutes, 54 miles.

If you are seeking hiking day trips from Seattle, head over to Snoqualmie Pass for an abundance of choices! For an easy trail, take the short Gold Creek Pond Loop with the whole family. For a moderate trail, take on Rattlesnake Ledge or Snow Lake. Looking for a challenge? Try Mount St or Mailbox Peak for a sweat!

Looking for a way to volunteer your time ? The Pacific Crest Trail Association frequently posts work parties all along the trail, and lots of them meet in Snoqualmie Pass.

16. Vashon Island

Distance From Seattle: 1 hour, 20 miles (with a ferry ride from Fauntleroy)

Escape from everybody in Seattle, without really truly leaving the area! Vashon Island is located in the Puget Sound, north of Tacoma and south of Banbridge Island.

It’s super close to downtown Seattle, with ALL the benefits of a quick, quiet, and serene escape. Here, you’ll find a laid-back community of farmers, growers, and artisans who are embracing a slower lifestyle.

While you’re here, rent a few bikes and tour around the island. Stop at May’s Kitchen for a bite to eat, go tasting at the Palouse Winery , and if you can, make it all the way south to Maury Island Marine Park!

Half-Day Trips From Seattle (1-2 Hours Away)

17. olympia, washington.

Distance from Seattle: 1 hour, 60 miles

Come explore Washington’s state capital for the day! Olympia is a charming area of Washington known for its historic downtown district. It’s full of grand government buildings, parks, and lots of corner cafes and shops.

Take a tour of the Washington State Capitol building for an afternoon full of local history. For some outside adventures, check out Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, Percival Landing Park, or Squaxin Park.

18. Kitsap County Parks

Distance From Seattle: 1.5 hours, 80 miles

If you’re looking for quieter trails to explore, take a quick ferry over to Bremerton or Bainbridge Island and explore the Kitsap County Parks system ! It’s one of the easiest day trips from Seattle (just a ferry ride away) and perfect for taking the whole family.

From serene forest walks to seaside explorations, there are a variety of heritage parks to explore. Some notable ones include Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park , Newberry Hill Heritage Park, and North Kitsap Heritage Park .

For a fun, family-friendly day trip from Seattle, check out the Stump House in Guillemot Cove Preserve . Here, you can explore a house bored from a stump, which is the location of many folklore stories from the past!

19. Poulsbo, Washington

Distance from Seattle: 1.5 hours, 80 miles

Poulsbo’s darling downtown waterfront draws the perfect crowd for day trips from Seattle. It’s a perfect mix of small-town feel, with the convenience of only being about a 1.5-hour drive from Seattle! It’s often referred to as “Little Norway” for the heavy cultural influence Norway has in the area.

You can easily spend an entire morning in the walkable downtown area. Start by grabbing pastries from Sluys Polsbou Bakery and walking along the boardwalk at Liberty Bay Waterfront. Check out some local art galleries, and if you’ve got kids, take them to the SEA Discovery Center !

20. Blake Island Marine State Park

Distance from Seattle: 1 hour, 15 miles (ferry)

Getting to Blake Island Marine State Park is half of the adventure! There is currently no public transportation option to get to this iconic Washington State Park, so the only way to experience it is by private boat or booking a day tour to Blake Island.

Once here, take your pick of the incredible hiking, birding, beach exploration, and even camping opportunities.

Curious about staying overnight? The Dyrt PRO, our favorite way to find camping, recently launched some new great features. Get reservations at sold out campgrounds, access 5000+ free camping locations, 1000+ discounted campgrounds, and pay $0 extra booking fees – all with The Dyrt PRO. You can try PRO for free, no strings attached — use our code “mandagies” to get 30 days free.

21. Chuckanut Drive

Distance From Seattle: 1-2 hours, 75 miles

Now, there are many gorgeous scenic drives in Washington to choose from, but none as varied and adventurous as Chuckanut Drive!

Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway is 21 miles long and begins in Burlington and ends in the Fairhaven neighborhood of Bellingham. along the way, you’ll drive through the farmlands of the Skagit Valley and enjoy scenic views of the bay.

If you want to stop and stretch your legs, Oyster Dome trail is one of the most popular hikes in Washington state , especially in summer and fall when the foliage is at its best!

22. Bellingham, Washington

Distance from Seattle: 1.5 hours, 90 miles

Located nearly at the Canadian border, Bellingham is a charming town on Bellingham Bay with a plethora of outdoor activities to choose from. You can use Bellingham as a sort of base camp for longer trips to places like Mount Baker or Lummi Island .

While you’re here, check out Whatcom Falls, The Chuckanut Mountains , and Lake Padden. After a morning of adventure, head down to the Fairhaven neighborhood to grab a bite to eat and browse some cute shops.

23. Whidbey Island

Distance from Seattle: 2 hours and 103 miles via I-5 OR 1.5 hours and 57 miles via ferry

For dreamy day trips from Seattle that aren’t too far away, a trip to Whidbey Island is a great pick for you! This small Puget Sound island is home to quaint little sea towns, hikes with views of the Sound, Deception Pass State Park and the Deception Pass Bridge.

There are two ways to access the island from the Seattle area. The first is taking the Mukilteo-Clinton Ferry to access the south side, and the second way is by driving over to the north section of Whidbey Island via I-5 and Highway 20.

Explore the darling town of Coupeville (once the set of the movie ‘Practical Magic’) to wander the gift shops, restaurants, and pier. Hike at Ebey’s Landing for some incredible (and windy!) sunsets. Finally, spend some time finding hidden beaches and spotting sea lions off the coast of Deception Pass State Park !

Not ready to leave? Stay overnight and the Anchorage Inn B&B , right on North Main Street in Downtown Coupeville.

24. Mountain Loop Highway

Distance From Seattle: 1.5 hours. 45 miles (depending on the hiking trail you choose)

If you’re looking for day trips from Seattle that involve hiking, we’ve got the perfect adventure for you!

The Mountain Loop Scenic Byway is an alternate driving route between Granite Falls and Darrington, Washington. Along the way, it’s bursting with trailheads, lookouts, mountains, and waterfalls to explore. The hard part will be finding which of these amazing Washington hikes to try first!

Some of our favorite Pacific Northwest hiking trails on Mountain Loop Highway include Lake Twenty-Two , Heather Lake , and Mount Pilchuck Lookout Trail.

Note: The Mountain Loop Highway between Gothic Basin Trailhead and Darrington are closed in the winter season . After Barlow Pass, the road isn’t paved, and the roads are quite narrow. Be cautious and know if your car can take the “off-road” features of this stretch of highway.

25. Skagit Valley

Distance From Seattle: 1 hour 15 minutes, 70 miles

Looking for day trips from Seattle in spring? Visiting the Skagit Valley is probably THE most popular thing to do during this time of year! The Roozengaarde Tulip Festival runs every year around mid to late April and it celebrates the millions of tulips and flowers that are grown in this region every spring.

RoozenGaarde, Tulip Town, and Garden Rosalyn are all popular tulip destinations to visit, which have car viewing routes, photo spots, and lots of ways to enjoy spring in the PNW.

If you’re coming any other time than spring, you can also enjoy Taylor’s Shellfish Farm, Shuh Farm, Bay View State Park, and Gorgon Skagit Farms.

26. Yakima, Washington

Distance From Seattle: 2.25 hours, 145 miles

Is it cloudy in Seattle? Chances are, it’s sunny in Yakima!

Here, you can pick wineries, breweries, U-pick orchards, and more. Yakima is known for growing apple, grapes, and hops, and actually produce more than 77% of all hops grown in the State!

Check out Cowiche Canyon and the Tieton Nature Trail if you love hiking. After your morning trail, head to a farmers market to pick up some fresh eats and enjoy the sunshine in the Yakima Valley.

27. Port Townsend, Washington

Distance From Seattle: 2ish hours, 50-100 miles (depending on route via ferry or driving)

Port Townsend is the perfect little escape from Seattle to enjoy good food, history, and a charming small-town vibe.

There are a few options to reach Port Townsend, and the best one depends on where you live in Seattle!

If you’re up north , consider taking your car on the Edmonds/Kingston ferry line to reach the town. Closer to downtown? Take the Seattle/Bremerton ferry line . If you live south, skip the ferry altogether and drive up past Gig Harbor and Silverdale to reach Port Townsend.

In town, you’ve got to check out Fort Worden State Park . Come during fall for a ghost tour – it’s one of the most haunted places in Washington State !

Other things to do here include attending the Wooden Boat Festival (September 8-10, 2023), trying downtown cafes, going to Chetzemoka Park, the Rose Theater, or the Port Townsend Farmers Market.

Full Day Trips From Seattle (Over 3 Hours Away)

28. North Cascades National Park

Distance from Seattle: 2.5 hours, 140 miles

The North Cascades National Park honestly deserves its own weekend, but it can also be easily explored as a Seattle day trip too!

For a fun day trip to North Cascades National Park , drive all the way from Seattle to Washington Pass Overlook . From there, you can turn around back to Diablo Lake Overlook , Ross Dam, and stop to dip your toes in the water at Thunder Creek Trail .

The drive to the North Cascades from Seattle is moody, filled with evergreen trees, and filled with Pacific Northwest vibes. We suggest taking this scenic Washington drive early in the morning to catch the fog on the trees!

Don’t forget to brush up on these 30 fun facts about the North Cascades to better appreciate the area too!

Note: Winter snow closes Highway 20 every year, right after Diablo Lake Overlook. Save this website for updates on when the road will open back up in the spring.

29. Mount Rainier National Park

Distance From Seattle: 2.5 hours, 110 miles

Definitely one of the more iconic day trips from Seattle, a visit to Mount Rainier National Park is one of the best things to do in Washington state !

The park is best enjoyed by car (it’s big), and the most accessible sections of the park are the Paradise area and the Sunrise area , but you’ll have to pick just one if you’ve got only one day to spare!

In the Paradise area, take the short but beautiful Nisqually Vista Loop or take the 5.5-mile Skyline Trail . For roadside attractions, check out Reflections Lake and Inspiration Point.

In the Sunrise area, hike the iconic Naches Peak Loop Trail or Tipsoo Lake . For roadside attractions, stop by the White River Patrol Cabin, Sunrise Point, and the Columnar Lava banks.

If you’re coming during peak season (summer), make sure to get there early , as the parking lots fill up very fast, sometimes by 8:00 am!

Don’t have a car? You can book a Mount Rainier full day tour that picks you up and brings you right back to Seattle at the end of the day.

30. Mount St Helens National Monument

Distance From Seattle: 2.5 hours, 150 miles

Following its tumultuous eruption in 1980, Mount St Helens National Monument is an incredible place to visit for geology enthusiasts. Start your day at the Johnston Ridge Observatory to get an up-close view of the blown-out side of the mountain.

Visiting this volcano is one of the coolest day trips from Seattle if you like history and nature!

From here, you can learn about the damage it caused in such a short amount of time and simultaneously learn about the forest regrowth just 40 years later. Now, it’s actually one of the best places in Washington to see wildflowers!

The Mount St Helens area has quite a number of Washington hikes to take with the whole family. Work your way back down the mountain by exploring trails like Hummocks Trail , Coldwater Lake , and the Johnston Ridge Observatory loop.

Stop by the many viewpoints of the mountain along the way – don’t forget your camera!

If you wanted to drive for just a bit longer , you could explore all the things to do in the Columbia River Gorge , including all the waterfalls near the Columbia River Gorge too!

31. Port Angeles

Distance From Seattle: 2.5 hours, 140 miles

Love the Olympics but want to spend more time exploring the city instead? Port Angeles is one of the farthest day trips from Seattle, but what it lacks in convenience it makes up for in activity options! Book guided kayaking tours, biking tours, or fishing charters.

For some secluded beach time, visit the Dungeness Recreation Area, Salt Creek Falls , or quiet beaches along the Strait of Juan de Fuca Highway .

32. Leavenworth, Washington

Distance from Seattle: 2.5 hours, 120 miles

Leavenworth requires a full day, but it’s worth the distance! Leavenworth is a charming town that’s decorated like a Bavarian village. It will be as if you transported yourself right to Germany!

The easiest way to get to Leavenworth from Seattle is via Highway 2, but you can also book a full-day Leavenworth tour that begins and ends in Seattle , if you don’t want to worry about driving.

Everything you would want to for the day is within walking distance of the town square

During the winter holiday season, the entire town is absolutely lit up with lights, making it quite a magical experience. In the fall, you can expect the town to go all out for Oktoberfest , and the summertime is brimming with live music, great food, and mountain sunshine.

Don’t forget to pick up a classic German brat, some beer, and enjoy this day trip from Seattle with your friends!

33. Victoria, BC

Distance From Seattle: 2.5 hours (via ferry)

You might think that it’s ridiculous to leave the country and call it a day trip, but not if you live in Seattle! Victoria, BC is one of the coolest full-day trips from Seattle to experience the old-city charm, history, and hospitality.

It’s easy to book transportation right from downtown Seattle and back on the Victoria Clipper. This boat ride takes about 2.5 hours each way, and is part of the fun itself! Book a departure in the morning and return in the evening for anywhere from 3-6 hours to explore Victoria.

While in town, check out the Butchart Gardens , Fisherman’s Wharf, or the Royal BC Museum . Downtown Victoria is very walkable, especially with kids!

Extend your stay! It’s really easy to stay overnight in Victoria, or stay even longer and plan a Vancouver Island road trip . Go all out and stay at the Fairmont Empress , or sleep nestled near the harbor at the gorgeous Oswego Hotel.

34. San Juan Islands (Friday Harbor)

Distance From Seatle: 3 hours, 110 miles (+ a ferry ride)

For unique Seattle day trips, don’t forget the San Juan Islands ! Orcas Island and San Juan Island specifically are great places to check out. They can be visited in a day, but we actually suggest making it out for a Seattle weekend trip too!

You can drive up there yourself and catch a ferry in Anacortes, or you can book a tour on the Clipper Ferry to Friday Harbor that leaves and returns to downtown Seattle. On the way, you can look for whales and hear about the many islands on your way through Puget Sound.

Spend time wandering around Friday Harbor for great food, local shops, and lots of beautiful perspectives of the harbor. You can also rent bikes in town and take a bike ride around the island . It’s a total of 43 miles! Other activities include visiting Lime Kiln State Park, booking a kayaking tour, or checking out the many local farms in the area.

Travel Tip: If you are going to rely on the ferry to get from island to island, we HIGHLY recommend booking your spot in advance !

35. Vancouver, BC

Distance From Seattle: 3 hours, 140 miles

Vancouver BC is another really exciting Seattle day trip to take if you want to go international! Getting to Vancouver is more straightforward than getting to Victoria – all you have to do is drive on I-5 until you reach the border!

You can easily spend the whole day wandering the streets of downtown, seeing things like Gastown, The Vancouver Lookout, and the Granville Island Public Market.

Want more outdoorsy time? You’ve got to check out Stanley Park right downtown, or drive a little bit farther to Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is another really popular attraction, even more, magical in the winter when it’s lit up with tons of lights!

Stay overnight! It’s easy to plan 24 hours in Vancouver – there’s so much to do! Stay the night downtown at the Blue Horizon Hotel to wake up in the middle of all the activity for just another day!

36. Olympic National Park

Distance from Seattle: ~4 hours one way, 190 miles one way

While this is probably on the longer side for day trips from Seattle, it’s worth it if you are seeking adventure and seclusion ! For Seattle day trips, the easiest things to do in Olympic National Park are on the north side and the southeast side (but you’ll have to choose which one!)

The north side includes Hurricane Ridge , the Storm King Ranger Station , the Mount Storm King Trail , Marymere Falls, and Sol Duc Falls. Choose this area if you are looking for adventurous hikes in the Olympic National Park!

The south side includes Lake Crescent , the Staircase area , and high-elevation hikes like Lena Lake. Come here for a day trip from Seattle if you are seeking nature and solitude – it’s one of the least visited areas of Olympic National Park.

If you dare to drive a little farther, you can check out the Hoh Rainforest , Rialto Beach , and Ruby Beach . (Just be prepared for a very long day’s drive!)

Not ready to leave? Book a place to stay near Olympic National Park in Port Angeles at the Olympic Lodge to continue your adventures the next day!

Map of Day Trips From Seattle

Want a visual representation of all the Seattle day trips you can take? Click the map below for inspiration for your next trips!

Did we miss some of your favorite day trips from Seattle? Share your favorite spots with us in the comments below!

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7+ Best Family Road Trips and Getaways From Seattle

Posted on Published: 08/19/2023

Seattle is one of my favorite family travel destinations. This beautiful Pacific Northwest city offers fun activities, unique museums, and a gorgeous landscape. It’s so different from my home in New England, which makes it a really interesting place to explore and see. Known as the Emerald City, Seattle always showcases its natural beauty with green everywhere.

There are so many fantastic things to do right in the city of Seattle with kids . However, if you are there for an extended trip, you may want to venture out beyond the Space Needle and the city limits. There are also some great family road trips from Seattle – both within the United States and outside the US borders.

We generally recommend a four-day Seattle itinerary . However, if you want to add on any of these road trips from Seattle, you’ll probably want to add some additional days to your trip. You can choose to stay in Seattle, or for longer road trips, switch hotels for more convenience.

When flying into Seattle, you’ll probably want to rent a car right at the airport to take you to your hotel. That way, you’ll be able to drive around wherever and whenever you want. You will likely pay for parking at your hotel, so be sure to budget for that.

Otherwise, you could choose to take a cab or ride-share to your Seattle hotel, and then rent a car for a day or two in the city. Zip Cars may also be available and are a great option for a road trip – especially a short one.

Remember that you’ll need your passport if you are traveling into Canada. Be sure to apply well in advance.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is located about 2 1/2 hours west of Seattle. This national park offers almost a million acres, including mountains, rainforests, hiking trails, and coastlines.

There are so many activities families can enjoy at the Olympic National Park. These include hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and viewing wildlife native to Washington State.

There are several visitors and ranger stations located throughout the park. While you could definitely take a day trip to Olympic National Park from Seattle, you may want to stay overnight.

Several lodging options are offered. The park offers several campsites as well as campsites associated with a few of the park lodges.

There are also a few lodges and resorts in the park. These include the following:

• Kalaloch Lodge
• Lake Crescent Lodge
• Log Cabin Resort
• Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort

For more information and reservations, visit the Olympic National Park website .

Snoqualmie Falls

Snoqualmie Falls, located in Snoqualmie, Washington, was always one of my favorite places to visit when I lived in the Seattle suburbs. It’s a short drive about a 30-minute drive west of Seattle and is definitely worth the trip.

There, you’ll find a 268-foot waterfall (one of the best waterfalls in the US ), a gift shop, a small park, and the Salish Lodge . Parking is free, as is access to the viewing platform which is a short walk away.

You could easily visit Snoqualmie Falls for an afternoon. It isn’t a very long drive, and you probably won’t spend too much time there.

However, if you want to do something really special, the Salish Lodge is a luxurious resort and spa overlooking the falls. It’s somewhere that I’ve always wanted to stay – it looks like such a unique spot. If you do book the lodge, you could probably just spend the night. It’s also one of the best weekend getaways from the city.

Learn more about Snoqualmie Falls on their website and see reviews of the Salish Lodge .

Everett, Washington is located about 40 minutes north of Seattle, on Puget Sound. There, you’ll find Funko HQ , the international headquarters of Funko, a company offering pop culture collectibles. One of our best day trips during our vacation was our trip to Funko HQ.

If your kids enjoy collecting Funko Pops, you’ll definitely want to take the drive up to Everett. It’s an easy road trip for the morning or afternoon. Funko HQ is typically closed on Mondays, so you’ll want to check on the store hours before heading up.

Funko HQ is a really fun place to visit, even if you aren’t looking for any specific collectibles. There are lots of different life-sized Funko figures, in themed rooms including Disney, Harry Potter, and Marvel. You can also design your own Funko Pop, for a completely unique souvenir of your trip.

Expect to spend about 30-60 minutes at Funko HQ. Beyond the shop, there aren’t any other facilities for tourists.

Located about 30 minutes from Downtown Seattle is the town of Mukilteo, a seaside small town located along Puget Sound. If you are planning a trip to Everett, Mukilteo is one of the best places to stop.

There are a few points of interest in the town, including the Boeing Future of Flight Museum and Boeing Factory Tour. During our visit, we stopped for a tour but they were sold out for the day. You’ll definitely want to plan ahead and make advance reservations for a tour. It apparently includes quite a bit of walking, so you’ll want to make sure you have comfortable walking shoes .

If the weather is nice, you may also want to stop at the Mukilteo Lighthouse Park. Find a spot in the vast parking lot and walk along the water’s edge to the lighthouse. You’ll want to check operating hours before visiting.

Even if the lighthouse isn’t open to visitors, it’s still nice to see the sites along the Sound. You can also watch the ferryboats leaving from the terminal and can enjoy sitting in the waterfront park.

A delicious seafood restaurant, Ivar’s Mukilteo Landing, is located adjacent to the park. You can either eat in the restaurant or visit the takeout windows to get food to eat outdoors while watching the boats.

San Juan Islands

Despite the similar-sounding name, the San Juan Islands are not located in Puerto Rico. Instead, they are located North West of Seattle. You can access the islands by ferry, plane, or private boat.

Most guests choose to take the Washington State Ferry, which departs from the Anacortes Ferry Terminal. It’s located about 2-3 hours from Seattle, and reservations are recommended. There are vehicle ferries if you choose to take your car.

The total ferry ride is a little over an hour. Because of that, and the ride time to Anacortes, we’d recommend staying at least a few days in the San Juan Islands.

There are three islands that are served by ferry service. These include San Juan Island, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island. These three offer different types of activities, so you’ll want to do research in advance to make sure you stay in the location with the best activities for your family.

The San Juan Islands Visitor’s Bureau website is the best spot to start your research and decide where to stay. You can also see things to do in the San Juan Islands here .

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is one of my favorite cities to visit in North America. The biggest city in British Columbia offers everything – mountains, green space, and an urban environment.

It’s located a little more than two and a half hours north of Seattle (although you’ll also want to account for the time it takes to cross the Canadian border). In my opinion, it’s one of the best road trips from Seattle.

I’d recommend spending at least a few days in Vancouver. There’s so much to see, so you’ll definitely want more than a day. When we visited, we’d usually spend a long weekend, and then head back down to Seattle. Three days is a good amount of time there unless you have specific things you want to do.

One of the most popular attractions in the area is Stanley Park. This urban park offers a botanical garden, hiking, beaches, sports, a train, an aquarium, and so much more. You could definitely spend more than an afternoon there, depending on your interests. It’s located right in the city, so it’s very convenient.

Other popular attractions in Vancouver include Granville Island, as well as Grouse Mountain, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. It gets chilly on top of Grouse Mountain, even in the summer, so be prepared.

In my option, the best time to visit Vancouver is in the summer. But, if you are a skier, you may want to visit during the winter months. There are other places to visit in the area, including North Vancouver Island .

If you are staying in Vancouver, some of the most popular hotels are:

• Loden Hotel
• L’Hermitage Hotel
• OPUS Vancouver

Another Canadian option is Victoria BC with kids .

Mt. Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier is one of the most identifiable elements of the greater Seattle landscape, along the Cascade Mountain range. This gorgeous mountain, which is also an active volcano, can be seen from Seattle on a clear day (which doesn’t happen as much as I’d like).

To get a closer look, and explore nature in the Seattle area, consider a visit to Mount Rainier National Park, located less than two hours away from the city. The park is accessible via roads open from May to October and offers lots of fun outdoor activities for families. It’s one of the beautiful Washington State National Parks .

It does get busy in the peak summer months, so you’ll want to arrive early and visit on a weekday, if possible. Family activities include hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. There are more adventurous camp/hikes available that require a permit and aren’t great for families.

The park has three drive-in campgrounds as well as one campground available for tents. Two of these are available for advance reservation. If you’d prefer not to camp, you could definitely visit the National Park for a day trip from Seattle.

Nearby Drives

In addition to these longer day trips listed above, there are a few fun Seattle suburbs that you can visit in just a few hours. If you have a car on your trip, you can definitely combine a visit to several of these locations.

Take a quick drive past Bellevue Washington into Redmond, the home of Microsoft. While Redmond is actually a small town without too much to do, it’s still fun to see all of the buildings on the Microsoft campus. It’s pretty impressive.

Drive to nearby Ballard, Washington, about twenty-five minutes from the city center, to visit the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (generally known as the Ballard Locks). Entry to the visitor center and to view the locks is free, however, parking is not.

The Ballard Locks are located where the saltwater of Puget Sound meets the freshwater of Lake Washington and Lake Union. They were created by the US Army Core of Engineers to manage the different water levels. It’s a fun area to walk around, and a unique experience if you haven’t seen locks before.

Another fun place to visit with kids is Fremont. It’s a small town with shops and restaurants. As you drive through, be sure to see the Fremont Troll, a stone sculpture that lurks under the George Washington Memorial Bridge on N. 36th Street.

Other Popular Destinations

There are plenty of other popular road trip destinations in Seattle and the surrounding area. These include Leavenworth (a Bavarian village – see things to do in Leavenworth here), Vancouver Island, Long Beach, Whidbey Island, and North Cascades National Park.

Hotels in Seattle

Whether you are planning to stay a few nights in the city and then venture to a new location, or keep your home base as Seattle, there are plenty of great Seattle hotels for your vacation. While it’s a small city, you’ll definitely want to think about which specific area you want to stay in.

When we visited Seattle with our family, we chose to stay at the Hotel FIVE – Staypineapple Seattle . This unique boutique hotel is centrally located, so we were able to walk to both Pike Place Market and Seattle Center .

We booked our trip through JetBlue Vacation, and while there were several great hotel options available, Hotel FIVE looked best for our plans and budget.

There are other family hotel options in Seattle as well. Some of the most popular Seattle hotels include:

• The Four Seasons Seattle
• Inn at the Market
• Kimpton Hotel Monaco
• Grand Hyatt Seattle

Frequently Asked Questions

If you plan to travel beyond the downtown area, I think a week would be a good amount of time. Seattle itself can be experienced in about 4-5 days.

Seattle’s reputation for rain and clouds is definitely based on fact. However, the best months to visit for clearer skies is the summer months.

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13 stunning scenic drives in washington state to inspire wanderlust.

Is there anything more exhilarating than waking up on the weekend, fueled by wanderlust and ready to head out on a scenic drive through Washington’s stunning landscapes? We have so many amazing routes to explore in this state, so there are always plenty of scenic drives in Washington to go on, whether you’re craving a short outing or a day-long adventure.

While you all know I love exploring the state on longer trips through Seattle road trips , Seattle weekend getaways , and Vancouver weekend trips , sometimes I feel like getting out on a shorter excursion. I’ve done dozens of scenic Washington drives all over the state over the years, so I narrowed it down to my favorite ones to inspire you to go on your next drive.

This article will help you prepare to go out for a drive as well as give you a list of the best scenic drives in Washington based on my personal experiences with them, so grab your coffee and notepad and let’s get into planning your next drive!

Table of Contents

How to Prepare for a Washington Scenic Drive

Here are a few tips to make your scenic drive in Washington State a bit easier!

What to Know for Scenic Drives Near Seattle

I love going out on a random weekend to go for drives near Seattle, but the traffic is horrible at times. Keep the following in mind:

• Check WSDOT’s site first – This online map provides live traffic updates so you can see if you need to take alternate routes before you even get on the road.
• Use Waze for directions – I’ve been obsessed with the traffic app Waze since it first came out years ago, and it’s usually all I use for Seattle drives. There’s nothing worse than following GPS and missing a turn, only for it to take forever to reroute you. Waze is the quickest app I’ve used for redirecting your route, as well as always offering you the fastest way.
• Leave early or late during weekends – There’s always something going on in Seattle, whether it’s an event downtown or everyone wanting to get out. I find that it’s busiest on the freeways from about noon to dinner time, so I recommend that you avoid driving during this time if possible.

Need help planning out your road trip? I’ve been using Roadtrippers for years to see exactly how long it’ll take from one point to the next and find new places to add to my itinerary!

What to Pack for Scenic Drives in Washington

Having the right gear for a longer Washington scenic drive always makes it easier. Here are a few items I recommend having in addition to checking out my road trips essential post :

• Polarized sunglasses – There’s nothing worse than a harsh glare when you’re driving, so make sure to stock up on quality sunglasses to reduce that.
• Water bottle – I always bring a few water bottles with me during Washington road trips so I’ll stay hydrated, and it’s one less thing to buy.
• Small backpack – Being able to stop and get out during a drive is one of the best parts, so keep a backpack with you that you can wear while you explore.
• Cooler – Having a small cooler with you makes it easy to have snacks all day long and keep drinks cold as well.

13 Scenic Drives in Washington State to Explore

You can see the distance of each Washington State road trip below, which should help you plan accordingly. The distances outlined under each road trip are from Seattle to your destination and back. You can make an excellent day trip out of any of the road trips in this post – except for the last few, which would be ideal over two days. 

1. Alki Beach – West Seattle Scenic Drive

Distance: 5 miles

Even though Seattle is primarily an urban area, there are beautiful routes to go in the city and its suburbs. One such route is along West Seattle’s gorgeous Alki Beach, which is the best short scenic drive in Seattle.

You can begin your trip to the Alki Point Lighthouse via the West Seattle Bridge. You can see the Seattle cityscape, Elliott Bay, and the Olympic Mountains in the distance from Alki Beach Park, which is located along Alki Avenue SW.

You can stop along the way at popular eateries like Marination Ma Kai or Cactus (my personal favorite) for a delicious lunch or treat yourself to a cup of coffee at Tully’s Coffee or Ampersand Cafe .

Alternatively, you can simply park and take a leisurely stroll along the sandy beach, soaking in the stunning surroundings. I love West Seattle because it’s one of the rare sandy beaches we have in the area, so take advantage of this during the warmer months.

2. Washington Park Arboretum – Washington Boulevard 

Distance: 11 miles

If you’re looking for a scenic drive near Seattle, this short trip may be the one for you. Home to countless stunning plants, the Washington Park Arboretum is an oasis on the shores of Lake Washington. The Arboretum is overflowing with natural beauty, from oak and maple trees to azaleas and rhododendrons.

My favorite times to visit the Arboretum are Seattle in the fall , when you’ll see stunning red, orange, and fall foliage, as well as spring in Seattle , when the cherry blossoms bloom (there are tons of things to do in the spring in Washington ).

Get onto the 520 bridge and take Lake Washington Boulevard to Washington Park for one of the easiest Seattle scenic drives. The road winds through overhanging trees for 8 miles, offering beautiful views of the Cascade Mountains in the distance and the waters of Lake Washington. 

You can take the same route back to downtown Seattle. Don’t worry; the Lake Washington shores never get old, and this route is worth seeing twice in one day.

Looking for the ultimate Seattle travel guide written by a local that tells you all the best places to go and what to see? My new ebook is now live, so  click here  to buy your copy!

3. North Cascades National Park – North Cascades Highway

Distance: 164 miles

North Cascades Highway, or State Route 20, boasts incredible meadows, sweeping vistas, and an abundance of photo opportunities when you’re looking for scenic drives from Seattle. The road seems to stretch endlessly across Washington, but for this North Cascades day trip , you’ll see only a piece of the highway.  

From Seattle, drive north through Everett and towards the town of Sedro-Wooley , where the North Cascades Highway begins. Follow the road to North Cascades National Park , and you’ll enjoy a remarkable 55-minute drive replete with farmlands and wide-open wilderness.

You can enjoy one of many North Cascades National Park hikes or visit lookout points like the Gorge Lake Overlook for impeccable panoramic views during one of the best scenic drives in Washington.

When you’re ready to go back to Seattle, you can take the same road home to see that magnificent Washington scenic byway one more time. When it comes to Washington road trips, this route should be high on your bucket list.

4. Whidbey Island – Whidbey Scenic Isle Way

Distance: 165 miles

Whidbey Island’s got it all when you’re looking for scenic drives near Seattle, from whale-watching and hiking to fantastic seafood. From Seattle, drive north towards the Mukilteo Ferry Terminal and take the scenic 15-minute ferry ride across the water. 

You can explore the island via the Whidbey Scenic Isle Way, a gorgeous national byway that stretches the length of Whidbey Island. The route will take you into the town of Coupeville , where there’s plenty to do and see when visiting Whidbey Island for a day . 

Visit the Price Sculpture Forest in Coupeville while you’re in town. It’s a fun convergence of nature and outdoor art. You can also stop in Fort Ebey State Park for a picnic under the trees when looking for things to do on Whidbey Island .

From Coupeville, get back on the road and keep driving north across the island until you reach the iconic Deception Pass Bridge . You can cross it to get onto Fidalgo Island, then head east towards Burlington. From there, it’s a relaxed one-hour trip south on the I-5 back to Seattle, so enjoy your time during one of the more beautiful Washington scenic drives.

If you feel like visiting another island, you can always head south and drive through Camano, where you’ll find plenty of things to do on Camano Island .

5. Bellingham – Chuckanut Drive

Distance: 170 miles

Chuckanut Drive, or Highway 11, is one of the best drives in Washington, in my opinion, because I went to college up here and drove this several dozen times (so I’m biased!).

This stretch boasts spectacular views of the Chuckanut Mountains, the San Juan Islands, and Samish Bay. You can enjoy the stunning scenery from the car as you traverse the highway or stop at some of the cool spots along the way. 

Check out the Oyster Dome hiking trail off Chuckanut Drive for your first stop during one of the best drives near Seattle. You can expect exceptional panoramic views of Samish Bay from the hike’s summit. 

Pull over at Larrabee State Park near Bellingham, and you’ll see postcard-perfect snapshots of the San Juan Islands. On the way back to Seattle, stop over in Skagit Valley to rest and refuel.

If you’re traveling in April, be sure to check out the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival , which is held annually from April 1 – April 30. The tulip and daffodil fields, stretching as far as the eye can see, are bound to take your breath away.

6. Granite Falls – Mountain Loop Highway  

Distance: 173 miles

Mountain Loop Highway is an iconic Washington road trip route you have to see for yourself. Head to Snohomish County on Highway 92, and you’ll reach the town of Granite Falls, where the byway begins, within the hour.

If you’re a hiker like me, you’re going to love this area with how many hikes there are. From easy Washington hikes to waterfall hikes in Washington , you’ll be sure to find something.

From Granite Falls, follow the brilliant Mountain Loop Highway around the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and north towards Darrington, where the byway ends. Expect epic views of the nearby mountain ranges as you emerge through the tree-lined road. Some of the most beautiful views of Washington’s north country are found on this Washington State scenic drive.

You can stop in Verlot just after Granite Falls to relax and stretch your legs. There is a camping spot next to the Stillaguamish Rive r where you can take photos and eat some road trip snacks before getting back on the byway.

Once the byway ends in the town of Darrington , you can drive west on Highway 530 to get to the city of Arlington . Pull over for a quick cup of coffee for an energy boost for the last leg of your road trip. 

From Arlington, it’s a quick 50-minute drive south on Interstate-5 through Everett and back to Seattle from Arlington on one of the most scenic drives in Washington.

7. San Juan Island – Anacortes Ferry

Distance: 208 miles

Where to Stay: Discovery Inn

Another scenic destination in Washington, San Juan Island is filled with parks, lookout points, and water sports to keep you entertained. Drive from Seattle to Anacortes to catch the ferry to the island (leave time to check out things to do near Anacortes first). It’s a pleasant trip over the water, which takes just over an hour on this road trip in Washington State.

Once on the island, you’ll want to check out all the things to do in the area, such as whale watching . This seaport town runs at a slower pace than life in the big city, and you’ll be instantly charmed by the small community vibe there. 

Check out the Afterglow Vista (formerly the McMillan Memorial Mausoleum), an enchanting structure if you’re at all inclined towards obscure architecture. After following the forest trail through the woods, you’ll find a huge limestone table encircled by six Roman columns. This intriguing spot in Friday Harbour looks like it comes straight out of a storybook. 

You can also check out the San Juan Island National Historical Park . You can stroll along the beach, explore the park’s many hiking trails, or picnic on the grass. 

When you’re ready to go back to Seattle, you can take the same ferry back to Anacortes, then drive south through Everett. Or you can decide to extend your trip and go on a road trip to Vancouver Island in Canada.

8. Leavenworth – Highway 2

Distance: 238 miles

One of the most popular Washington scenic byways, this route offers a lovely drive any time of year. However, Highway 2 is particularly scenic in fall, when the trees lining the road are bright with autumnal colors. I’ve been here in every season, and there really isn’t a bad time of year to go.

There are plenty of fun Leavenworth activities to indulge in while you’re there. This cute town has wine-tasting stores, a reindeer farm, and charming riverside views. Visit Waterfront Park for a relaxing stroll along the Wenatchee River. 

While they used to hold a famous Washington Oktoberfest in the fall here, it’s now been moved to Wenatchee , so you can use Leavenworth for your base and visit the festival for a day. For a magical time to drive there, check out all the Leavenworth Christmas activities (just make sure to have an all-wheel drive or chains for the pass just in case it snows hard).

You can take Highway 2 to get back to Seattle and hit Wallace Falls State Park en route. Head to Wallace Falls Trail for one of the best waterfall hikes near Seattle . 

You’ll cross wooden bridges over babbling streams in the forest, and you’ll get to see the immaculate Wallace River. Wallace Falls drops down over 250 feet! You won’t want to miss this iconic Washington destination. 

9. Yakima – Interstate 90 & Chinook Scenic Byway

Distance: 290 miles

Where to Stay: Oxford Suites Yakima

This picturesque Washington road trip will take you on I-90. You’ll cross the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge for beautiful views of Lake Washington. Then, drive through Snoqualmie Pass (another scenic drive in Washington State in itself) on your way to Yakima on one of the most driven Washington State scenic byways.

Once in Yakima , visit some fantastic local breweries and wineries and pick up some drinkable souvenirs to bring back home. You can also go whitewater rafting in Yakima or check out the farmers’ market for delicious local fare. 

To get back to Seattle, take the Chinook Scenic Byway (Highway 410) around Mount Rainier National Park and north through Buckley. Expect a fantastic view of Mount Rainier, not to mention dense forests, river canyons, and valleys on this beautiful byway.

Looking for another impressive mountain? Here’s how to climb Mt. St. Helens .

10. Olympic Peninsula Loop – Highway 20

Distance: 349 miles

Where to Stay: Red Lion Hotel Port Angeles Harbor

The epic and popular Olympic Peninsula Loop will take you through stunning rainforests, alpine highlands, and past beautiful lakeshores. The route is famous for its hiking trails, camping spots, and natural beauty and is one of the most scenic road trips in Washington State. 

You can start the morning exploring Edmonds and then take the Edmonds ferry to Kingston with your car and start your road trip from there, traveling south and then west along the coast of the Salish Sea. 

It’s going to take you about 12 hours to make the loop trip from Seattle and back, but you may have some time for stops along the way if you leave early in the morning. You can stop to rest and explore Port Townsend , a quaint coastal town offering fun activities like hiking , kayaking, and sailing. While I’ve gone on many day trips from Seattle to Olympic National Park , it’s best if you have a few days to spare.

Check out Ruby Beach on the west coast before you head east back to Seattle. You’ll see incredible sea stacks and the beautiful shoreline. You may even be able to do a short Olympic National Park hike before you head back home.

Lake Crescent is also a must-see on this road trip, as it’s one of the most well-known deep lakes in Washington . 

11. Pacific Coast Scenic Byway – Highway 101

Distance: 363 miles

Where to Stay: Adrift Hotel

The Pacific Coast Scenic Highway, or State Route 101, is an awe-inspiring journey along Washington’s rugged coastline, featuring unparalleled ocean views, charming coastal towns, and natural beauty. This iconic route is a must for any traveler looking to experience the best scenic drives in Washington.

From Olympia , head west towards Aberdeen and then follow the Pacific Coast Scenic Highway as it meanders along the coastline. You’ll pass through enchanting towns such as Ocean Shores (and you’ll find no shortage of what to do in Ocean Shores ) , Long Beach , and Raymond , each offering unique attractions and opportunities for exploration.

You’ll then head north on the Olympic Peninsula, where you won’t want to miss out on the chance to marvel at the dramatic cliffs and sea stacks at Ruby Beach or take a leisurely stroll on the sandy shores of Kalaloch Beach . Further north, the mystical beauty of the Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park is a must-see experience that will leave you spellbound.

As you make your way back to Olympia, consider taking a detour to explore the captivating charm of Port Townsend or the bustling waterfront in Port Angeles . The Pacific Coast Scenic Highway is one of the most unforgettable scenic drives in Washington and one of my personal favorites.

12. Mount Rainier National Park – White Pass Scenic Byway

Distance: 394 miles

Where to Stay: Mountain Meadows Inn

A day trip to Mount Rainier National Park is one of those classic Washington State scenic drives, thanks to the scenic byway en route. I go here multiple times a year during the summer and never get sick of these views. From Seattle, travel south through Tacoma on your way to Mary’s Corner, which marks the beginning of the White Pass Scenic Byway. 

You can stop at the Capitol State Forest for snacks under the trees. There are also numerous hiking trails for you to explore if you’d like to stretch your legs before reaching Mary’s Corner.

When you get onto the byway, you’ll see striking views of forests, meadows, and rivers. There is also the view of the majestic mountain pass, White Pass, with a 4,500-foot elevation gain. I love this drive so much and highly recommend putting it on your Washington bucket list .

Halfway through the byway, turn onto Morton Road to get to the Nisqually Entrance of Mount Rainier National Park, where you’ll have your pick of outdoor activities. 

When heading back to Seattle, you can go back down Morton Road, then east along the rest of the byway you missed on your way to the park. From there, it’s another pretty drive east to Yakima and southwest through Snoqualmie Pass to get back to Seattle. It’s also a beautiful weekend trip from Portland, Oregon to go on, or even a long day trip from Portland .

13. Steptoe Butte State Park – Palouse Scenic Byway

Distance: 614 miles

Where to Stay: The Davenport Grand, Autograph Collection

The Palouse Scenic Byway runs south on Highway 195 from Spokane through Colfax and is a fun drive to put on a road trip around the Pacific Northwest . You can take Snoqualmie Pass to get to Spokane and stop at the Columbia River on your way there. The view of the river running through the mountain range is simply breathtaking. 

You can stop again in Spokane and stretch your legs at Riverfront Park or meander through town and pick up some souvenirs . 

Now it’s time to drive the Palouse Scenic Byway, where you’ll see rolling hills and farmlands stretching as far as the eye can see. Be sure to stop at Steptoe Butte State Park before you head home. With a summit of over 3,000 feet, you can imagine the awe-inspiring view of the farmlands from this lookout spot. 

From Steptoe, travel west on Highway 90 to get back to Seattle through Snoqualmie Pass. You’ll pass through the quaint towns of Othello and Ellensburg on your way back to town.

Now the hardest part is picking which one of these scenic drives in Washington to go on first!

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a Seattle local who's obsessed with exploring all things Pacific Northwest, especially hiking, road trips, and national parks. She's been to hundreds of places all over the region and started this website to help others discover the beauty of the area and create their own trips.

6 thoughts on “ 13 Stunning Scenic Drives in Washington State to Inspire Wanderlust ”

I love to hike love the outdoors It helps me with my FIBROMYALGIA Hiking keeps me moving and with this debilitating crap movement is so important

Hiking is great for that! I used to work with many patients who had that.

Hi Marissa. We are coming to Seattle for a cruise and then spending 4 days touring Washington Oregon area. We want to visit Mt. Rainier and Crater Lake in Oregon from Seattle. We are flying back from Eugene. What routes do you suggest we take to see those places and other places along the way you think we should visit? Thanks for any guidance you can provide. Thanks, Mark and Paula and Kathy and Jim.

Hi Mark, I would start with Mount Rainier, then Mount St. Helens the next day. These will both be full days. From there, you can head down to the Vancouver (WA) area and go east to see parts of the Columbia River Gorge area – there are many beautiful areas along there. If you haven’t been to Portland before, you could stop there before going to Eugene; otherwise, I recommend stopping in Astoria. This will be a full itinerary but you’ll see a ton.

Hello Marissa – we are planning a trip to Portland OR to visit our son (we live in Maine). From Portland we are going to Seattle for a few days and then are looking for a suggestion for a route to follow (with a one night stayover) from Seattle down to the Columbia River (spending first night down there in Goldendale to go to observatory) where we will be spending a few days before flying out of Portland. My son mentioned going up to Leavenworth though I do not know how thrilled my husband will be about the German theme. I was thinking of going down the Mt Rainer route and then down to Yakima for the night but not sure what is there or if that is too much on one day 0 I would like to see Rainer and do a few easier hikes and waterfalls. Just cannot decide on this portion of the trip – HELP

Hi Betsy, what time of year will this be? That greatly determines if you’re able to go to Rainier to Yakima, as the main route is closed half the year due to snow. If it’s past May, you may be okay to visit the Paradise section and then take 410 to Yakima.

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The 10 Best Weekend Road Trips From Seattle, Washington

Posted by Arthur McMahon September 08, 2020 Updated May 21, 2024

We research, evaluate and select travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers’ experience, user reviews and more. We may earn a commission when you book or purchase through our links. See our editorial policy to learn more.

One of the best things about Seattle is how the best of the Pacific Northwest is only a short drive (or ferry ride) away.

Taking a ride out of Seattle can mean anything from hopping on a ferry across the Puget Sound to skiing through the clouds on Washington’s sky-high Cascade peaks.

You can get to just about any corner of The Evergreen State on a weekend road trip from Seattle or easily cross borders into Oregon, Idaho, or even Canada. There’s an entire world of ecosystems, topographies, and towns to explore only a few hours from the city.

Below, you’ll find a list of the best Seattle road trips for your next mini-vacation or weekend getaway. Along with suggestions of things to do, you’ll also find recommended lodging and camping options.

Road Trip Planning

While the coast and the eastern half of the state are accessible year-round, the mountains in the High Cascades of Washington can be difficult and dangerous to explore in winter — some roads normally accessible during summer are closed for much of the year due to the snowpack. Skiers and snowmobilers will still be able to get to ski resorts and sno-parks, but hazardous road conditions are always possible.

Elsewhere, weather and seasonal changes are hardly a hindrance. Be sure to check the  Washington State Department of Transportation website  for the latest road, traffic, and weather conditions before you hit the road.

If you need a vehicle for your Seattle road trip, consider renting from  Escape Campervans  or  Cascade Adventure Vans . And if you’re taking a  ferry , be sure to book ahead and make appropriate accommodations for the specific vehicle you’ll bring on board.

1. Coeur d’Alene

The city of Coeur d’Alene is the Pacific Northwest’s Lake Tahoe. A beautiful waterfront bookends the adorable town with a stunning mountainscape as the backdrop. In this case, those mountains are the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

For Seattleites, Coeur d’Alene’s atmosphere is often a welcome change from the Pacific side of the region. You can laze the day away on the lake, take a stroll along the lively waterfront district, or spend your time at one of the local resorts.

There are also several ski areas on the outskirts of the city, multiple golf courses, a casino, and the  Silverwood Theme Park,  which is the largest theme and water park in the PNW. Of course,  taking a hike near Spokane is always an option too.

Lodging: There are several resorts in town. Perhaps the most iconic is the Coeur d’Alene Resort , which occupies large portion of the town’s waterfront. The Blackwell Hotel is another classy boutique option in the heart of the waterfront district.

Coeur d’Alene offers plenty of amazing vacation rentals too, like this lakeside couple’s retreat or this rustic waterfront cabin .

Camping: RV drivers can park near Coeur d’Alene’s waterfront at the large Blackwell Island RV Park . Tent campers (or those who want to park their RV outside the city) will find the Wolf Lodge Campground to be one of the best options in the area.

Distance from Seattle: 311 miles (approx. 4 hours, 45 minutes)

Related Read:   10 Scenic Drives in Washington State That’ll Blow Your Mind

2. Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan is a multi-faceted weekend destination with several different types of outdoor recreation available. Those who want plenty of civilization with their lakeside fun can stick to the southern end of the lake in the bustling and beautiful town of Chelan, which has a charming downtown Main Street and farmer’s markets every Thursday during the summer.

For a more remote retreat, take a ferry across the lake to the small town of Stehekin, which you can only reach by boat or trail. From town, you can access the Pacific Crest Trail and many other hiking trails, and there are great views of the lake — consider a helicopter tour for amazing birds-eye views.

Adventurous folks can opt to set up camp at one of the many boat-in campgrounds along the lakeshore or backpack into the Cascades. Glacier Peak reigns above all else in the area, and there are many other lesser-known summits to discover in the area.

Lodging: There are many options in Chelan, but outside of town, consider the Mountain View Lodge and Resort . If you make the trip to Steheiken, give the North Cascades Lodge a look.

Camping: You’ll find multiple campgrounds on the lake’s south shore, a couple at the northern end, and multiple boat-in campgrounds along the shoreline, like Coral Creek Campground . For a more traditional camping experience, stay at Lake Chelan State Park .

Distance from Seattle: 180 miles (approx. 3 hours)

Related Read:   9 Amazing Lake Camping Sites in Washington

3. Leavenworth

A cute town with German influences set on the Cascade Range’s eastern slopes, Leavenworth offers a unique experience hard to find elsewhere in the Pacific Northwest. There are many reasons why you would want to visit this charming town, but its lovely Germanic design what draws in most travelers. T

he town’s architecture is reminiscent of a mountainside Bavarian village. There are German beer houses and restaurants along the main strip. Monthly festivals are a cause for celebration throughout the year, especially, of course, in autumn, when Oktoberfest celebrations draw in the crowds.

There’s more to explore outside of town. The nearby Cascade range is full of hiking trails and several ski resorts lie within a short drive from the village, as do several wineries.

Lodging: The recently remodeled  Blue Elk Inn has expansive grounds and complimentary cruiser bicycles for guests. For something more lavish (and thematic) check out the  Bavarian Lodge , which features ornate decor and mountain views.

On the vacation rental front, the Black Bear Cabin offers the out-in-the-woods feel while the Bavarian-style 1227 Haus is conveniently located downtown

Camping: Adjacent to each other and within walking distance of a grocery store, the Leavenworth/Pine Village KOA and Alpine View RV Park & Campgrounds offer clean campsites and is close to town.

Distance from Seattle: 117 miles (approx. 2 hours)

Related Read:   The 10 Best Airbnbs in Leavenworth, Washington

4. Long Beach

Long Beach is a lovely oceanside getaway that has more to it than its namesake sandy shoreline. At the ends of the 28-mile beach are freshwater deltas and two outdoor recreation areas:  Cape Disappointment State Park  and  Leadbetter Point State Park .

The beach boardwalk near the heart of town serves as a launching point for the 8.5-mile coastal  Discovery Trail  that continues to Cape Disappointment. There are several lakes to enjoy along the way plus access to the ocean and Willapa Bay.

Speaking of the Bay, visitors can opt to travel a few miles north to the village of Oysterville for fresh-from-the-sea food at  Oysterville Sea Farms . Near town, the  Cranberry Museum  is a source of local agricultural history and has nearby cranberry fields (bogs) that make for an interesting and colorful afternoon stroll.

Lodging: Located as close to the ocean as any structure dare get, the Inn at Discovery Coast is a beach lover’s dream stay. 

If you’re in the market for a sweet oceanfront vacay rental, look no further than this farmhouse-themed condo .

Camping: Eagle’s Nest Resort is an amenity-rich experience with mini-golf, a clubhouse, and a game room. Those who want more of a rustic experience should look into one of the campgrounds in Cape Disappointment State Park .

Distance from Seattle: 171 miles (approx. 3 hours, 15 minutes)

Related Read:   13 Outdoorsy Things to Do on the Washington Coast

5. Mount Baker

Aside from the main road that heads to the  Mount Baker Ski Area  on the northern side of the mountain, Mount Baker is relatively remote and difficult to access. There are many accessible forest service roads during the summer, but you’ll need a capable (usually 4WD) vehicle to travel them. If you’re making a winter road trip, you’ll definitely need snow tires and AWD or 4WD.

Its remoteness makes Mount Baker one of the best Seattle road trips, especially when the city is feeling packed. It offers nearly 200 miles of snowmobile trails, multiple ski slopes, and countless hiking opportunities . Backpackers seeking solitude should head this way.

The southeastern end is also fairly accessible. Baker Lake is a great reservoir for fishing and other watersports. There are also several trails to backcountry lakes where few people roam.

Lodging: The Logs at Canyon Creek offers cozy cabin rentals on the north side of the mountain ideal for skiers. On the south side, you’ll want to take a look at the Cascade Mountain Lodge .

Camping: Surrounded by old-growth forest and the gushing whitewater of the North Fork Nooksack River, the Douglas Fir Campground is a beautiful place to spend the night on the north side of Mount Baker. Those heading to Baker Lake will enjoy Swift Creek Campground or Horseshoe Cove Campground .

Distance from Seattle: 110 miles (approx. 2 hours)

Related Read:   14 Best Airbnbs in Washington For Unique Evergreen State Getaway

6. Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is an alpine wonderland like no other, and you’ll also find it on the list of Portland’s Best Weekend Road Trips. Mount Rainier is the tallest peak in Washington state as well the Cascade Range, and there’s plenty to see here to fill more than a few weekend getaways.

Seattleites may want to work on tackling the Wonderland Trail one piece at a time, or check the trails on the list of the best hikes in Mount Rainier National Park one by one. Be sure to visit the Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout for amazing mountain views.

Paradise Valley and Crystal Mountain Resort are the more tourist-heavy areas around the mountain. You’ll want to stick to the western and northern sides of the park to avoid crowds. That’s where you’ll find less-trafficked hikes like the Summit Lake Trail .

Be sure to check road conditions before you go — outside of summer, many of the park roads are closed due to the insane accumulation of snow on this mountain.

Lodging: You have options like the classic Paradise Inn  or the slopeside Crystal Mountain Resort — but also check out our guide to the best cabin rentals near Mount Rainier .

Camping: Mowich Lake Campground is on the bank of a serene lake 17 miles northwest of Rainier. The Dalles Campground is just as beautiful, though easier to access as it’s just off the highway on the park’s northeastern side.

Distance from Seattle:  82 miles (approx. 1 hour, 45 minutes)

Related Read:   11 Best Glamping Spots in Washington for a Natural Getaway

7. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

At Mount St. Helens, it’s all about the views, trails, and interpretive learning centers. That’s because most everything else burned when the mountain erupted in 1980. The active volcano is still home to lush forests and cascading waterfalls to discover, however.

The main highway into the monument passes popular lakes and several notable points of interest. The Mount St. Helens Forest Learning Center is a free information resource with interactive history lessons, Coldwater Ridge Visitor Center is equally informative, and the Johnston Ridge Observatory offers astounding panoramic views.

Of course, there are trails galore across the mountain. You’ll need a permit to hike above 4,800 feet, which includes the summit. You’ll also need a permit when camping in the Mt. Margaret Backcountry . Be sure to take a tour of the Ape Cave Interpretive Site during summer visits.

Lodging: Options are limited near the mountain, but consider the lovely  Anderson Lodge nearby.

Camping: You’ll find rustic lakeside camping at Merrill Lake Campground on the south end. For something with a bit more sophistication, take a look at Eco Park Resort or Silver Lake Resort, both along the main highway east of the mountain.

Distance from Seattle: 148 miles (approx. 2 hours, 30 minutes)

Related Read:   11 Magical Treehouse Rentals in Washington

8. Ocean Shores

A peaceful and quiet oceanside vacation destination, Ocean Shores is the best of the Seattle road trips on this list if all you really want to do is relax. The coastline here is a bit rough and wild, making it ideal for sightseeing, but not so much for swimming.

Ocean Shores lies between the Pacific Ocean and Washington’s North Bay. Fishing is popular in the area, and the North Bay Natural Area Preserve is a great place for birdwatching. The town offers scenic interpretive areas, a golf course, art galleries, restaurants, and more.

And Ocean Shores lies only a short drive from Olympic National Park —which on its own could be considered one of the best Seattle road trips. There are a number of long and short trails to hike in the park, but the scenic drive and viewpoints are spectacular on their own. There’s no need to hoof it on your vacation, unless you want to.

Lodging: There are many fantastic resorts and cottage rentals in Ocean Shores. Of particular note are the Judith Ann Inn and the Polynesian Resort. The latter is pet-friendly and has multi-room suites for larger groups.

Camping: If you have an RV, the Quinault Marina & RV Park is adjacent to a wildlife refuge and offers sand volleyball, fire pits, as well as marina access. Tent campers will find a clean and well-protected place to set up at Ocean City State Park .

Distance from Seattle: 132 miles (approx. 2 hours, 30 minutes)

9. Portland

Portland is the heart of the Pacific Northwest. It’s where the mighty Willamette River feeds into the state-dividing Columbia River. Mount Hood looms over the city, and you can see the snow-capped Washington peaks of Mount Adams and Mount Saint Helens on a clear day.

Related read : The Ultimate Portland to Seattle Road Trip Itinerary

Downtown has everything you could ever want in a city, and there plenty to see on the outskirts, as well. Check out the best hikes in Portland to find local attractions such as Mount Tabor, the Japanese Rose Garden, and the Riverfront Path, plus destinations outside the city like Multnomah Falls and Mount Hood (check out these incredible Mount Hood hikes too). Only a few hours from Seattle, Portland serves as a great weekend home base for exploring Oregon.

Lodging: The options are seemingly endless — but a standout is the Edgefield Hotel with its wacky and historic charm and superb amenities like a warm saltwater wading pool.

Camping: Check out the 10 best campgrounds near Portland . A few are on the outskirts of town and the rest are further out in the wilder areas.

Distance from Seattle: 174 miles (approx. 2 hours, 45 minutes)

Related Read:   12 Epic Outdoor Summer Vacation Spots in the U.S.

10. Vancouver Island

There’s a lot of variety on Vancouver island, which is probably why it’s one of the most popular Seattle road trips. If it’s your first time visiting, spend time in Victoria (an amazing spot to go whale watching) and explore the smaller town of Tofino.

It’ll take about four hours to get from Victoria to Tofino, so this road trip is best done over a week or long weekend, rather than in a 48-hour weekend window.

You can get to Vancouver Island from Seattle by plane or ferry. Most cruises and flights arrive in Victoria, where the scenic Inner Harbour overlooks the Juan de Fuca Strait. If you love flowers and plants, head to the vibrant Butchart Gardens outside the city.

Tofino is more rural. It’s on the western shore, surrounded by old-growth forest. The town is a great basecamp for adventures into Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve .

Lodging: Spring for Fairholme Manor — a historic estate with lush gardens — or enjoy the view from your own private rooftop deck at the Pied-À-Terre Harbour Penthouse .

Camping: Fort Victoria RV Park is the closest you’ll get to the capital city. For something closer to Tofino, look at Surf Grove Campground or Green Point Campground .

Distance from Seattle: 107 miles (approx. 4 hours, 30 minutes)

Explore More of the PNW:

Ultimate itinerary: the great pacific northwest road trip.

The 15 Best Day Hikes Near Seattle

12 Epic Waterfall Hikes in Washington

11 Beautiful Hikes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness

Coastal History: A Guide to the Oregon Coast’s Lighthouses and Historic Sites

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Posted by Arthur McMahon

Arthur loves to walk. It’s as simple as that. Whether it be in the mountains, on the beach, or along the city streets — he believes walking is the best way to experience the world. Thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail was his first backpacking foray, and he hasn’t stopped crushing miles since. Arthur and his wife now regularly travel into the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest seeking new trails to hike.

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8 Best Road Trips from Seattle

By Allison Williams April 6, 2021 Published in the Spring 2021 issue of Seattle Met

Highway 20 cuts through the heart of the North Cascades. Photograph by Mac Holt.

T he road trip is about the journey, never more so in a time when the faraway remains largely off-limits. Fortunately, Washington’s highways contain miles of scenic grandeur and peculiar history, telling us endless new stories through the windshield. For these routes—the state’s most stunning stretches of blacktop, plus a few detours on dirt—you will know you’ve arrived when you’re still moving and realize you never want to stop.

Jump to Your Route:

Moses Coulee / The Gorge / Palouse / Chuckanut Drive / Olympic Peninsula / North Cascades / Mount Rainier National Park

Beachfront Property

Long beach from seaview to oysterville.

Starting point: 170 miles from Seattle

Freeways have on-ramps, but beaches have access roads. Those in Long Beach, Klipsan Beach, Ocean Park, and Surfside Estates—a 13.5-mile stretch—allow cars all year long, but sections both north and south close April 15 through Labor Day (some open during razor clam season). Closed sections may protect habitat for snowy plover birds.

The best beach drives happen outside of prime kite-flying season in the summer, and with an eye on the tides. Try entering at Cranberry Road and heading north, avoiding the crowds of Long Beach proper, then circling back to town on regular roads for Dylan’s Cottage Bakery’s signature sweets.

Just because one can legally drive on the beach doesn’t mean one should floor it on the beach—a lesson often learned on the flat expanse of the Long Beach Peninsula, where the sand is, technically, a Washington state highway. Much, but not all, of the 28-mile Pacific Ocean frontage allows cars, though drivers must stick to speeds less than 25 miles per hour, with doughnuts and swerves through the surf prohibited.

Turns out that unlike, well, most every other state route and highway, the beach can be cut with streams that create tiny sand canyons, hard to spot when navigating in the dark. That little lip of sand can wreak havoc on the underside of a vehicle (yes, that’s personal experience talking). Particularly since tides partly dictate the rare open razor clam harvests, meaning sometimes the hordes of cars descend onto Long Beach in the middle of the night. Just know that the town of Seaview, on the south end of the peninsula where it links to the mainland, contains an auto parts store. Staff there see undercarriage damage regularly.

The beach highway’s novelty makes up for all its dangers. Several stretches of Washington coastline operate under these rules—Copalis up north even includes an airstrip on the sand—but Long Beach’s length outshines the others.

Long Beach is the state's sandiest road.

Image: cavan images by Jason Neuerburg

Moses Coulee from State Route 28 to Highway 2

Starting point: 173 miles from Seattle

From State Route 28 east of Wenatchee, Palisades Road dives straight into the coulee where it meets the Columbia River. After an unpaved section that crawls up the coulee’s side, arrow-straight country roads form the route before dipping back down into the canyon. Eventually the northward route meets Highway 2, a solid east-west link for travel to Grand Coulee Dam or back to Wenatchee, though a quick detour farther north on Jameson Lake Road continues the sojourn up the undeniably grand Moses Coulee.

Grand Coulee gets all the attention: one of the largest dams in the world, name-checked in a Woody Guthrie song. And while Grand Coulee lives up to its reputation, next-door Moses Coulee is the sleeper showstopper.

The story of Moses Coulee begins in the Missoula Floods of the last ice age, about 14,000 years ago. A gush of water from Montana scoured the landscape, exposing vertical walls of basalt in a wide gorge. The Channeled Scablands name may not roll off the tongue—and might be why the region rarely gets its due—but it’s an evocative and not inaccurate descriptor for the sharp angles and deep grooves of the state’s middle north.

Co ulee namesake Chief Moses (or Quetalican) of the Sinkiuse-Columbia tribe lived a remarkable life—he visited Washington, DC, twice in treaty negotiations and shook President Rutherford B. Hayes’s hand. Though the chief was likely born within the coulee itself, the U.S. forced Moses and his people off their ancestral lands, eventually to the Colville Reservation.

The Nature Conservancy allows hiking access to some of its 30,000-acre Moses Coulee and Beezley Hills Preserves.

Image: courtesy the nature conservancy / don macanlaly

Today small farms dot the perfectly flat coulee floor in the formation’s southern half, a few fruit orchards and tall windbreak trees around the houses. Otherwise, scattered sagebrush fills what feels like a long, thin rock quarry, one that stretches north 40 miles. Sections of the single road are unpaved, the washboard ridges of the hard dirt as even as the basalt pillars that form the coulee edges like ramparts of a medieval castle.

As this meandering, square-edged valley winds northward, mailboxes become fewer, and the final section opens to a nature preserve notable for protecting more than a dozen species of bats, along with the unique shrub-steppe habitat.

State of the Gorge

Highway 14 from camas to maryhill.

Starting point: 176 miles from Seattle

Though Highway 14 is an unbroken tether from one end of the Gorge to the other, it’s halted by stoplights and small towns along the entire route. Cities on the Oregon side dwarf most Washington settlements, but Stevenson, Bingen, and Lyle have restaurants.

Oregon and Washington each boast roads that trace the length of the Columbia River Gorge, two practically parallel lines on either side of the water. While Oregon’s Interstate 84 is faster, our state’s mostly two-lane road takes its time; the Lewis and Clark Highway was named for explorers who took more than a month to traverse this section of their Pacific expedition. The 90 miles from Camas, just east of Vancouver, to Maryhill can be counted in a series of spectacular riverfront state parks.

Beacon Rock State Park

How do we know the Washington side of the Gorge rules? Because the top of our 848-foot Beacon Rock, a volcanic remnant with a mile-long hiking trail, offers a perfect view of…Oregon. Plus, of course, the entire river, dotted with islands, and forests recovering from the brutal 2017 wildfire. Closer are the climbers who scale the rock’s northwest face—likely to the bemusement of the falcons that nest on adjacent crags.

Beacon Rock sits high above the Columbia River Gorge.

Image: shutterstock by hopeless traveler

Spring Creek Hatchery State Park

The fish born here offer little entertainment value, though the state hatchery next door offers free self-guided weekday tours. More thrilling: Windsurfers and kiteboarders perform water-top acrobatics on one of the best windy sites in the world. The park itself is tiny but an ideal spot for tearing into takeout from Everybody’s Brewing, just down the road in White Salmon.

Columbia Hills State Park

When the slopes above the river fill with balsamroot blooms in May, lupine flowers serve as bright purple contrast. The sight rivals any along the Gorge for pure natural beauty. Closer to the river’s edge, Horsethief Butte towers over a small inlet, home to Native American pictographs and petroglyphs.

Maryhill State Park

The charms of the Gorge’s placid eastern park lie mostly in its proximity to the area’s eclectic attractions: Maryhill Art Museum, in a mansion seemingly plucked from the English countryside. A replica of Stonehenge, an incongruous sculpture, lonely on an otherwise empty bluff. Tidy rows of fruit orchards, squeezed into a few flat acres between the Columbia and the rolling hills that rise as bald ripples, far into the horizon.

Forests give way to grasslands at the east end of the Columbia River Gorge.

Image: Mac Holt

Palouse Pretty

Highway 195 and state route 26 from rosalia to palouse falls.

Starting point: 291 miles from Seattle

From Rosalia, Highway 195 goes south to tiny Colfax, home to a modest downtown. State Route 26 then travels west through quiet farmland to Washtucna, where State Routes 260 and 261 make a southern hook to Palouse Falls State Park.

We can explain the deja vu: The undulating grasslands of the Palouse, bright with spring green under a baby blue sky, look just like Microsoft’s most famous desktop backdrop. But on any random mile south of Spokane, the farmland exudes a kind of serenity that no Windows product ever managed. The arched Rosalia bridge complements the rolling farmland, oozing pastoral calm.

The modest Steptoe Butte nearby would barely register if you set it against the peaks of the Cascades, but around here the triangular knoll towers over an otherwise nearly flat landscape. The quartzite underfoot predates the surrounding land by millions of years, a little island of bedrock sticking up among layers of newer sediment.

The Palouse, wedged between wine country and Spokane, can be a forgotten puzzle piece among the state’s more dramatic sections. The region stretches into Idaho, the swath of grassland best known for twin public universities and agricultural production. But placards in Rosalia note a darker history: An 1858 battle between U.S. Colonel Steptoe and united bands of Native Americans led to a brief Indigenous victory of sorts, before the military crushed rebellion against white settlement in the fertile expanse.

The miles southwest of Rosalia evoke classic Americana, the kind of picturesque barns and grain silos most often associated with the bucolic American Midwest. But detour south to the abrupt Palouse River Canyon and natural features assert themselves. For all the churning fury of Palouse Falls, a 200-foot cascade, it’s hard to imagine the river carving so deep a channel. And it didn’t—erosive ice age floods carved a gutter so deep, a river redirected into the shortcut, straight to the Snake River. Around here, nature plays the long game.

The rolling landscape of the Palouse makes for easy riding.

Image: Shutterstock by chanya thirawarapan

Chuckanut Buffet

Chuckanut drive from burlington to bellingham.

Starting point: 66 miles from Seattle

From Burlington, the most scenic route goes west on State Route 20 before heading north at Bayview Edison Road. After a dogleg through Bow turns the arterial briefly into Bow Hill Road, it meets Chuckanut Drive at a crossroads called Edison Station. From there, the drive moves due north.

The road that hugs the Puget Sound coastline south of the Bellingham neighborhood of Fairhaven spans only about 25 miles, but it presents a veritable feast.

Consider the small town of Bow near the route’s southern end, perhaps the best exemplar of bang-for-your-buck virtue—a whole small town of charm packed into a block and a half. Breadfarm Bakery, with its soft chocolate vanilla sandwich cookies and bread made with potatoes grown in the Skagit Valley, is a destination unto itself. Terramar Brewstillery juggles beer, booze, and pizza in one spot, and the Longhorn Saloon offsets the tidy boutiques and art galleries of the surrounding businesses with good old-fashioned fried food and local gossip.

Bald eagles seem to have a taste for this flat farmland too; so many raptors crowd the tree branches that it’s not unusual for a line of parked cars to form along the otherwise unremarkable rural Bayview Edison Road south of Bow. To join, simply pull over and gaze in whatever direction the binocular brigade faces.

A jammy Breadfarm treat.

Image: Olivia Brent

But north, where State Route 11 officially becomes Chuckanut Drive, it abandons the straight lines of a grid to trace the bumpy coast of Samish Bay. Only a few feet of waterfront separate the steep bluffs and the inland hills, though Chuckanut Manor—dishing cioppino and truffle fries on white tablecloths—finds room for multiple outdoor patios.

Tables are less formal at Taylor Shellfish Farms, where harvest facilities and a fresh market share weather-worn buildings between piles of discarded shells. The patio feels untouched by pandemic abridgment: draft beer from a Bellingham brewer and a ring of freshly shucked bivalves on ice, just as salty as the sea air. Eye a grilled dungeness crab over the wood fire pit and you’ll end up ordering your own.

Though the drive offers peekaboo views to the moody Puget Sound waters, a strenuous hike from the roadside earns you a fuller panoramic atop Oyster Dome. From here, the San Juan Islands emerge from the Salish Sea in a series of dark humps in the distance.

Back down at Chuckanut, the road meanders through Larrabee State Park—more hiking trails, more overlooks—before landing in Fairhaven, a funky enclave of bookstores and cafes, student-friendly burrito joints and upscale gelato shops. Though the road trip may be bite-size in length, the biggest risk is leaving overfull.

Chuckanut Drive ends in a charming Bellingham neighborhood.

Image: Shutterstock by darryl brooks

Olympic Fanfare

Highway 101 from port angeles to kalaloch.

Starting point: 82 miles from Seattle

The blissfully simple Highway 101 serves as the central artery for the Olympic Peninsula. Most detours mean an out-and-back trip, though the main route itself offers plenty of scenic pullouts. Port Angeles and Forks are the only towns with multiple services.

No one argues that the Olympic Peninsula stands as one of the few truly unmissable gems of Washington. A better question: What do we mean by the Olympics? The peaks, the beaches, the rain forests, the history—“all of the above” overwhelms, but the mighty 101 delivers an intro to each.

The highway makes a near-complete loop around the square peninsula, like a clock that’s only missing the six. That makes midnight, or the city of Port Angeles, the ideal launchpad. From the onetime gritty lumber town, Olympic National Park options immediately shoot off the highway into the interior. Choose your own adventure: Hurricane Ridge for snow-capped mountains and alpine meadows. The Elwha River for the reclaimed waterway where record-size salmon once spawned (and may again since its dam was removed in 2012). Or Lake Crescent, the state’s second deepest—so much so that the Space Needle could fit upright beneath its surface.

The hits keep coming. Sol Duc Hot Springs, where the hot waters feed man-made swimming pools but nearby falls remain misty, untouched cascades. In Forks, a longer detour follows the Sol Duc River until it meets the flowing Bogachiel and empties into the Pacific. There, Rialto Beach faces iconic sea stacks, partially eroded rock formations pounded by ocean waves.

Back on 101, a different spur south of Forks heads east into the Hoh Rain Forest, a mossy temple of old growth so peaceful that it’s home to the so-called quietest square inch in the country.

Finally, in less than 100 miles, the highway reaches the park’s most accessible ocean beaches. At Kalaloch, the dangling roots of a Sitka spruce, airy where the beachfront has eroded underneath it, draw admirers who call it the Tree of Life.

The ever-changing coastline at Kalaloch Beach.

Image: Shutterstock by Abbie Warnock-Matthews

Northern Composure

State route 20 from marblemount to mazama.

Starting point: 101 miles from Seattle

Marblemount serves as the last bastion of commerce and cell coverage on an eastbound trip; a smattering of restaurants dish comfort food. To the east, the orderly company town of Newhalem, mostly Seattle City Light facilities, gives way to tight road curves above the electric blue of Diablo Lake. Highway 20 barrels east before it descends into the ponderosa pine forest of the Methow Valley, home to the Mazama Store’s beers and baked goods.

The state’s absolute best road—a subjective distinction, to be sure—closes for half the year. WSDOT gates block North Cascades Highway at either end around Thanksgiving as monumental snows stack on the pavement. It remains shuttered through the winter, hibernating like the (very few) grizzly bears that roam the thick wilderness, which stretches in both directions.

Spring comes late to the high elevations; avalanches still release torrents of snow onto the route as crews begin clearing from the ends. The highway usually reopens by mid-May, once it’s deemed safe—and once guardrails busted by nature get repaired. It’s usually still a tunnel of car-high snow berms at the highest passes. Impressively, the 75 miles of single-lane blacktop deliver any month they’re open, even when it’s too chilly to erect a tent at the North Cascades National Park campgrounds scattered along its length.

Yet for all the natural beauty—glaciers and evergreen forests and roadside waterfalls—the drive delivers a lesson in energy policy too. Serpent-shaped Ross Lake is merely the latest incarnation of what was the Skagit River Valley, visited for 10,000 years by local indigenous tribes. Starting in 1919, dams created reservoirs now known as Ross, Diablo, and Gorge lakes to power Seattle City Light’s massive Skagit River Hydroelectric Project. Around 20 percent of Seattle’s power comes from the manipulation of a landscape that looks untamable from the road.

Save for Summer Seasonal closures mean some of the state’s high-elevation roads are off-limits in winter months; check wsdot.wa.gov for current conditions.

Glance north up Ross Lake for Desolation Peak, site of a fire lookout once manned by Jack Kerouac. Countless rugged mountains flash by as the route reaches scenic Washington Pass and rocky pillars called Liberty Bell and the Early Winters Spires; pull off at the signed Washington Pass Overlook, as the hairpin turn requires the driver’s full attention. Exit the car at every stop to take in the view, since nearly every lake, peak, and vista stretches far beyond the limit of a single windshield.

Highway 20’s scenic hairpin turn from Washington Pass Overlook.

Image: Andy Porter

Rainier Survey

National park roads from paradise to chinook pass.

Starting point: 107 miles from Seattle

From Paradise, Stevens Canyon Road heads east to meet State Route 123 north of Ohanapecosh; the Grove of the Patriarchs trail there makes for a stomach-settling short hike between windy stretches of road. State Route 123 goes north to meet Highway 410 at Cayuse Pass, and a turn eastward immediately meets two tight switchbacks before curving through Chinook Pass and descending toward the eastern foothills of the Cascades.

To drive Mount Rainier National Park’s perfectly scenic roadways is to marvel at the chutzpah to establish them in the first place. The routes slice upward into the high elevation mountainsides of Rainier’s alpine skirt, through meadows that have earned world records for annual snowfall. When visitation grew nearly tenfold in the 1920s, park officials mapped the web of roads we know today—connecting the south and east sides of the volcano—and began construction even as automobiles were still in the Model T era.

Expertise came from everywhere. Seattle’s Mountaineers club consulted on what natural areas should be made accessible, and one park superintendent brought road-building experience from a stint in American-occupied Philippines. Aesthetics remained key; workmen constructed bridges over Christine Falls and Box Canyon from concrete, then faced them with stone for a rustic look.

The Stevens Canyon Road, perhaps Rainier’s most stunning stretch of blacktop, links the park’s main visitor sites (Paradise, Sunrise, and Ohanapecosh). Its route of stone tunnels and high scenic traverses was one of the last bits of roadway completed, begun under the Great Depression–era Public Works Administration but finished after a break for World War II .

Mount Rainier  on a clear night from  Chinook Pass.

Image: Joe Tobiason

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7 Easy Spring Break Road Trips for Seattle Families

With so many road trips from Seattle to choose from, it’s hard to know where to start—until now

With spring break just around the corner, we know you’ve got getting out of town on the brain. If you aren’t planning an escape to a sunny destination , we think a PNW road trip should be on your list. That’s why we mapped out seven weekend trips from Seattle that are bursting with things to do this spring. You’ll find festivals, sandy beaches, clam digging and more at these nearby destinations. All you need to do is pack up a few things and head out of town.

Our Favorite Road Trips from Seattle

1. walla walla.

Come for the wine, stay for the relaxed vibes of this eastern Washington town. Spring kicks off Walla Walla's wine season, without the summer crowds. Families can still enjoy plenty of outside time, wine tastings, and activities when the flowers are in bloom.

Foodie Fun: Second in the list of things its known for is Walla Walla's restaurant scene. It goes without saying that you can't build a wine town and not include amazing eateries too. But one of the reasons Walla Walla works for families is that simple family-friendly fare is just as plentiful as high end dining. Grab your morning pastry and coffee at the Walla Walla Bread Co. and you won't be disappointed. Their lunch fare is equally as tasty, and no one will think twice if you take a few loaves of fresh-baked bread home with you at the end of your trip. Locals will always recommend the Maple Counter Cafe for a home-cooked, sit down breakfast or lunch for good reason. Sweet or savory, their fare is always fresh and hits the spot. Plus, they've got a waffle truck that sits right outside (it opens in April for the season), if you want something quick. Grab dinner at Sweet Basil Pizzeria if NY style slices please your crew, or head to Wingman Birdz + Brewz for your pub food favorites served with a side of sass. Your kids will love the YouTube-esque TV offerings they've got playing on repeat that help the food wait move pretty quickly.

Kid-Friendly Wineries:  Most of the wineries in town welcome kids. But there are a few stand-outs that are worth a mention. Start your tasting odyssey at Time & Direction. While you sip, kids can admire the Star Wars and '80s gaming paraphernalia that line the walls and keep things interesting. The tabletop video game works, and no, you don't need quarters to play it. Be sure to ask the bartender to walk you through the wines. They include all kinds of easter eggs—from the hidden logo on each bottle to the tasting notes on back (one is a Mad Lib of sorts). Kontos is another that gets the parent nod of approval, and not just because the wines are good. Head upstairs to find swings where the kids can lounge, and plenty of space to sit and color for a bit too. You can sit by a fireplace and enjoy food at Henry Earl .

Just for Kids:  The wineries are for you, parents, so the kids should have some fun too, right? You can't go wrong with a handmade chocolate from Bright's Candies and a trip to Island Octopus next door will keep the kids entertained for as long as you let it. We suggest hitting these two spots before you hit the road back to the city.

Cozy Time:  Settle in for your trip at The Finch . Located on East Main Street, it makes a perfect base camp for your time downtown, whether you're wine tasting, shopping, or just want to ditch the car to walk to meals. This boutique hotel welcomes families from the minute you walk through the door—sometimes with wine (they have tastings in the lobby once a week), always with a scavenger hunt for the kids. While you get checked in, they can complete the lobby chandelier seek and find for a prize (it's a good one, trust us). In the evenings, the cozy outdoor fireplace, just off the lobby, is the perfect spot to snuggle up with the kids and roast s'mores before bedtime (they have kits for sale in the lobby).

The Finch's retro chic rooms hit all the right notes. Kids will love the aqua mini fridge and wall stencils that highlight the region. While parents will love things like MALIN+GOETZ bath products and a bathroom layout that's all about privacy and function. The 375-square-foot double queen has all that families of three to four need to stay comfortably. Families of five, or those looking for a little more space, should book one of the three suites that also include a living area. The Mill Creek Suite includes a dining area, so you can finish up those leftovers for lunch the next day. Free on-site, covered parking is also included with your stay.

Drive Time: Just over 4 hours from Seattle.

2. Seabrook

If you’re ready to trade the bustling city for a peaceful escape, Seabrook is an unbelievably easy spring break destination for families. And their SpringFest activities (now through April 16) are sure to keep everyone in your family entertained during your stay. Plan your stay around Magic Mondays, Tag Tuesdays, Field Day Fridays, and more.

Parks and Rec:  No matter where you stay in Seabrook, you're only about five minutes from the glorious sandy beaches of the Pacific. And all you need to enjoy it is pack your wagon full of beach chairs, kites, all the sand toys you can carry, and a picnic basket full of goodies and head out the door. Stay all day or add on an afternoon bike ride to your day's itinerary. Beyond the beach and biking everywhere, kids can shoot hoops, visit farm animals, explore the community garden, and play at the playground. And if you really want to make a day of it, check out the family adventures offered at Buck's Northwest. Surf lessons, river tours, and a clam digging expedition for first-timers are all part of the fun.

Foodie Fun:  While Seabrook is a small town, it's no stranger to great eats . Breakfast at Vista Bakeshop rivals any you'll find in the city, but if pastries and coffee isn't what your morning is all about, you can find healthy bowls and smoothies at Blue. Lunch and dinner are just as easy. It's hard to go wrong with a pizza from Frontager's or an inventive modern Latin dish from Koko's Restaurant. And no trip to Seabrook is complete with out at least one scoop of small-batch ice cream from the Sweet Life. Spring is also an ideal time to take advantage of the community fireplaces you'll find scattered around the town. Bring fixings for s'mores and call it a night.

Learning Moments: Although clamming seems like a summer activity, it's actually something families can do year-round in the PNW. And if you head to Seabrook in spring, you and the kids can get in on razor clam season . March dates have been approved, and there are many listed in April pending approval. Bring your gear and plan to cook your haul that night.

Just for Kids: Usually families can only enjoy the popular Float Find in winter, but this year, the find has been extended through spring. Find clues at Guest Services on Front Street and then get hunting.

Cozy Time: The whole town of Seabrook was made for vacations. Most of the houses, bungalows, and manses are available to rent. Browse the cottage rentals to find just what you need—from sweet cottages with ocean views to pet-friendly cottages and cottages that sleep up to twenty-plus people. Each one comes with different perks like hot tubs, gas grills, fire pits, toy closets, and even baby gear (think high chairs or pack-n-plays) that make renting an easy option for families. 

Drive Time:  2.5 hours from Seattle.

Related: Brake for These Roadside Wonders on Your Next Road Trip

3. Port Townsend

The dramatic, windswept location, perfectly preserved Victorian architecture, and carefully curated shops and restaurants set the stage. You’ve arrived in Port Townsend , and there’s nowhere else in the state quite like it.

Parks and Rec:  Fort Worden is a 434-acre park that will amaze and surprise at every turn. Once a military fort and barracks, it is now an unofficial scavenger hunt, filled with surprises and amusement in every nook and cranny. The restored houses, formerly military housing, provide unique holiday rental opportunities. Be sure to point out Alexander’s Castle to your Disney-obsessed kids. There are e-bikes, cornhole, badminton, yoga, plus jazz concerts for adults and budding musicians, in this cultural haven. Don’t forget to tell your group a ghostly tale before climbing the ruined barracks by the sea. Camping, swimming, museums, even a Pulitzer-prize winning poetry publisher can all be found on the property. It’s impossible to see it all in one day. Thank goodness summer vacation is three months long.

Foodie Fun:  Port Townsend is packed with options for hungry little eaters. Doc’s Marina Grill has all the yummy fish, chips and chowder one would expect from the aquatic surroundings. Water Street has a plethora of choices, including must-lick local institution Elevated Ice Cream Company . Further afield, Finnriver Cidery , in nearby Chimacum, makes for a unique experience, nourishing the mind and spirit as well as the body. The menu is simple but satisfying: salads, bratwurst and sandwiches. The cider is what you'd expect from a cidery that thinks in terms of appellations instead of mass appeal, and their mission is inspiring. They engage with the community and reconnect with the land, with the sense of place imbued by Washington state apples. 

Learning Moments:  The čičməhán Trail is a wonderful way to learn about the S’Klallam people who lived in this area for hundreds of years, while also enjoying a walking tour throughout the town. There are 18 sites throughout the city, sectioned into three-, six- and eight-mile loops, each telling a part of the tribe’s history. Print out the map in advance and then check off the signs as you find them. Whether you do some or all, every plaque is moving and educational.

Just For Kids:  Port Townsend is the epicenter of the maritime environment that makes our state so special. So bring your little mariners down to the water next to the Northwest Maritime Center . There's a pirate ship where young sailors can raise the mizzenmast and jib the topsails. There are also maritime youth programs for ages 5-17. Eye patch and parrot not required, but highly recommended.

Cozy Time:  The Port Ludlow Inn is a picturesque hideaway where groups can bond and connect, with watercolor views and casual activities. Check in and make a reservation at The Fireside . Be sure to ask about their dining events, as they are a farm-to-fork regional destination. Inquire at the front desk about farm tours and wine tastings, or sign up for hiking, biking, kayaking, giant lawn games, beach strolling or bird watching. On the flipside, grab a board game from the front desk, sip some tea and breathe in the sea air while winning at Trivial Pursuit. 

Drive Time: Two hours from Seattle.

4. Bellingham

Parks and Rec: The protected seashore of Bellingham and Whatcom County is perfect for exploring tide pools, taking scenic hikes and watching seabirds swoop in for their catch. If you want to see all the beauty this area offers, head down Chuckanut Drive and stop at Larabee State Park for hiking trails and water access. It’s $10 to enter the state park and you’ll have loads of options for a day by the shore.

Foodie Fun: Drive by  Zane Burgers in the Fairhaven neighborhood and you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time to the days of carhops. We found the burgers to be delicious and inexpensive, just what you want when feeding a family. Topping our list of favorite restaurants in downtown Bellingham is  AB Crepes  where sweet and savory crepes are the focus (our favorites: the Nutella and banana crepe and the crepizza) and the POG mimosa really hits the spot.

Keep Bellingham’s many breweries in mind when you visit as they not only have unique beers for the adult members of your crew but their energetic vibe drowns out all sorts of cranky toddler moods. Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro  was serving up a blackberry wheat on our visit and offered Etch-a-Sketches to the kids while they waited for food (BRILLIANT).

Learning Moments: The quirky and eclectic (or electric?)  SPARK Museum should definitely be on your must-visit list. Kids will love learning about static electricity through hair-raising hands-on demonstrations. Find out how things like telephones worked before smartphones were invented (i.e. “the olden days”). Upstairs in the museum is an area just for the littlest visitors. 

Just for Kids: If the temps dip and the rain falls during your Bellingham visit, there are still tons of options for keeping the kids active. We particularly loved our visit to  VITAL Climbing Gym where the drop-in rate of $19/person can’t be beat. Kids can rent shoes here and your pass is good for the whole day so you can take a break for lunch (crepes! See below!) and return for more bouldering action.

Drive Time: 1.5 hours from Seattle

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—Kate Loweth

5. Hood Canal

The Hood Canal is a winding waterway set between views of the Olympic National Park, oyster beds and forest trails. Families have been spending their free time along these shores for centuries, and this year is no exception. It’s hard to pin down what makes this region so special, but perhaps it starts with a perfect gathering place, Alderbrook Resort & Spa.

Parks and Rec:  Potlatch State Park is located right on the Hood Canal with 57 acres available for camping, fishing, picnics, beachcombing and shellfish harvesting. Alderbrook Resort & Spa has five miles of private trails and a water sport center where families can rent wild rides like hydrobikes, paddle kayaks, peddle boats and seacycles.

Foodie Fun:  The newly renovated Restaurant at Alderbrook Resort & Spa serves up scrumptious fare and their menu for little eaters is extensive. Hamma Hamma Oyster Saloon is a tradition. Grab chowder, oysters and more and sit in their outdoor wooden A-frame huts for fresh air and views. A true culinary highlight is Hook & Fork at Union City Market . The outdoor setting pairs perfectly with the flavorful offerings—such as salmon salad, trout dip, charbroiled oysters and the you-can’t-stop-slurping clam chowder.

Learning Moments:  Sign up for Alderbrook Resort & Spa’s guided nature walks to learn about wildflowers, fungus, and plant life depending on the season. Discover Shinrin Yoku–Forest Meditation-by grabbing a booklet from the concierge and heading into the trees.

Just For Kids:  The glass enclosed pool and hot tub area is where the kiddos will splash all day. Be sure to take them on the Nautical Flag Hunt which zigs and zags all over the property. Afterwards pick up a wooden frog music maker from the gift shop so your group can sing along with the amphibian night symphony.

Cozy Time:  Order a s’mores kit (or two) for an evening treat by the bonfires.

Drive Time: 1.5 hours from Seattle.

Related: 11 Relaxing PNW Escapes Especially for Moms

6. Bainbridge Island

How about a vacation that starts at once? That’s the magic of Bainbridge Island . Your adventure begins on a ferry ride across the Sound with nature’s tableau escorting the way. Bainbridge Island has foodie haunts, parks and water sports, shopping, culture, and quiet moments for bonding and laughter. And with so many new additions—if you think you know Bainbridge, think again.

Parks and Rec: The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BIMA) is celebrating its tenth anniversary with a Treasure Trek this spring . You and the kids can try your luck at spotting one of 100 glass floats that'll be hidden around the Kitsap Peninsula, including five parks on Bainbridge Island, including Strwaberry Hill and Manzanita. The first drop happened April 1, and five more are planned throughout the season. Tiny tots and big kids alike will have 90 acres of play space to frolic and play at Battle Point Park . The all-abilities kid’s play structure provides hours of amusement, and if you plan it right, you can get in on the Earth Day Expo scheduled for April 22. Another worthwhile outdoor option? Explore with Islandwood when you sign up for their community programming (hint: the next one celebrates mothers on May 14 ). 

Foodie Fun: With so many choices, it’s hard to choose where to nosh. If you ask us, Via Roso 11 is an absolute must. The atmosphere is convivial and boisterous; you will feel at home at once thanks to the authentic Italian, just-like-Mama-cooked menu. Savor their homemade gnocchi, secret pesto sauce, bruschetta with Genovese basil, pasta and pizza. No need to get hangry, kids get Italian crackers immediately and all pasta dishes can be ordered in a kid’s portion. There's also Proper Fish with their British fish and chips and East Coast lobster rolls that do not disappoint. Streamliner Diner serves up famous brunch, while Pleasant Beach Donuts satisfies that sweet tooth. Get dolled up and dine at Joe’s Restaurant or Ba Sa . Don't forget the Bainbridge Island Farmers Market. Find fresh eats plus amazing local products on Saturdays, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Town Square. 

Learning Moments: Bloedel Reserve is not just for kids, but the vast property is filled with the wonders of nature and many activities for budding naturalists and everything is coming back to life in spring. Plus, they've got amazing Earth Month programming planned throughout April. We're looking forward to the KiDiMu Garden Tour for Kids on April 26.

Just for Kids: KiDiMu is a hands-on museum for children with lots of interactivity and STEM activities. Make sure to get a copy of the Second Edition of Explore Bainbridge Activity Book when you play. 

Cozy Time:  After all that excitement, it’s time for bed. We recommend The Inn at Pleasant Beach for a luxury, boutique hotel in a prime location with a pool. It’s above The Marketplace (with gourmet sandwiches, coffee and adult bevvies) and Island Cool frozen yogurt. Plus it's across the street from the movie theatre. Win, win!

Ferry Ride: 35 minutes from Seattle.

7. Vancouver, BC

Oh, Canada! Travel to Canada is especially sweet in spring. Vancouver is a cosmopolitan city tucked into a delicious, bite-sized morsel next to the Pacific. Food, nature and shopping—plus that exchange rate—make this a great family escape.

Parks and Rec: Pack your shovels and sand toys because Kitsilano Beach has golden sand that's perfect for little diggers with views of the city and mountains. Vancouver’s newest urban playground is called “park of the future” and was designed with sustainability as a priority. Six thousand shrubs, perennials, climbers, and mature trees embrace the space.

Foodie Fun: Sign up for Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co.'s Sunday night pizza-making fun from 5-7 p.m. Sal Y Limon serves authentic Mexican street food fare, and has a kids play area complete with play kitchen and toys. For more games head to Bells & Whistles where they serve up a chill atmosphere and arcade games for all ages amusement.

Just For Kids: Psst parents, this one’s for you too! The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is serenely beautiful and awe-inspiring. Adults will love the views and nature. Kids will be exhilarated by the swaying of the bridge. Check out Science World and the Kids Market at Granville Island for more kid-approved fun.

Learning Moments: Art inspires. Grab the group and take a self-guided art tour around Vancouver and discover BC’s diverse art scene. The tour takes folks through Stanley Park, around totem poles, the Vancouver Art Gallery, public art and more.

Cozy Time: Stay at the coveted Fairmont Waterfront , a luxury hotel with children-specific perks like kids’ robes, babysitting services (advanced notice is required) plus 5-year-olds and younger eat for free off the kids menu. Granville Island Hotel is conveniently located on Granville Island surrounded by parks, and the colorful Aquabus provides fun transfers to downtown, Stanley Park and Science World.

Flight Time: One hour from Seattle. Drive Time: Just over two hours, depending on the border crossing wait times.

Related: 7 Seattle Hotels with Amazing Kid Perks

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4 Best Frugal Road Trips in the Pacific Northwest in 2024

T he Pacific Northwest stretches across Oregon, Washington , the Canadian province of British Columbia and — perhaps — areas like Idaho and northern California, depending on who you ask. But regardless of the unofficial boundaries, the Pacific Northwest contains some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, and the summer is a great time to soak up the natural beauty.

Check Out: 3 Places To Travel That Are Like Hawaii but Way Cheaper

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While parts of the Pacific Northwest, like Seattle, are known for being expensive, you can still take affordable vacations in the area. In particular, if you’re taking a road trip, you can make stops that cost little to nothing , such as if you’re simply viewing natural landmarks or hiking. 

1. Visit the “Most Underrated” National Park

If you want to visit a national park this summer, consider making your way to the North Cascades National Park in Washington, near the Canadian border. It’s usually a little over two hours from Seattle and under three hours from Vancouver, and it’s full of beautiful glaciers, lakes, mountains, and more. 

As a kid, David Ciccarelli, founder and CEO of Lake.com , has fond memories of a family road trip from the East Coast to the West Coast, where they reached Sacramento and then headed to the coast for a trip northbound into the Pacific Northwest. That included visiting Mount Saint Helens in southern Washington to see the destruction of the 1980 volcano eruption, as well as going through the North Cascades.

“The entire trip took about three weeks as we camped along the way, and it was the time I first learned about national parks,” he said.

While trips like this are timeless to some extent, the glaciers in the North Cascades are retreating as the planet warms, so you might want to visit sooner rather than later.

2. Camp at Diablo Lake

You don’t have to take such a long road trip if you’re short on time, but either way, camping is a good way to save money while traveling on overnight trips. A great spot to do so is along Diablo Lake, part of the broader North Cascades National Park Complex. For example, you can book a campsite at the Colonial Creek campground for $24 per night this summer.

Driving to Diablo Lake from Seattle along State Route 20, also called the North Cascades Highway, is a scenic route recommended by Wendy Diep, co-founder and CEO of Let’s Jetty , a group travel planning app, though be prepared to lose cell service, she said.

When you reach your destination, “there are a ton of hiking trails out there from hard to easy, and of course, the beautiful lake,” added Diep.

If you want to get in the lake though, be prepared for chilly water, even in summer. Diep recommended bringing a paddle board so you don’t have to submerge yourself.

3. Island Escape from Seattle

For those looking for a short road trip if your starting point is the Seattle area, Diep also recommends Whidbey Island. Getting there can still take a few hours, as you either have to take a ferry or drive in from the north via a bridge, turning it into a roughly 125-mile trip from Seattle.

“My friends and I did a weekend there. We stopped at Greenbank Farm for food on the way; it had great to-go food along with a great selection of cheeses and bread. For what you’re getting, it’s definitely worth it,” said Diep.

For accommodations, Diep stayed at an Airbnb that had beautiful seaside views.

“Because we traveled as a group and the place was a bit on the smaller side, it was really cheap per person,” she said. “But I like that when traveling in groups sometimes; you get a more intimate feel with your close friends.

“What I loved about the trip was we were able to visit different areas on Whidbey Island; there’s wine, food, and art — sometimes all in one place — at prices that are much more affordable than Seattle itself,” she added.

“Winery visits are a must,” she added. “My favorite was Spoiled Dog; it was just so cute…and the customer service just made you feel at home.”

4. Explore a Mix of Nature and City Life in Oregon

Another great Pacific Northwest road trip is to get a taste of both urban and remote life throughout Oregon.

Suzie Palma, co-founder, chief product and growth officer of Let’s Jetty, recommended taking a trip from Cannon Beach in northwest Oregon to Crater Lake National Park in south-central Oregon.

Along the way, she suggests stopping “in Portland then looping around to hit Bend on the way back. It’s one of my favorite road trips in the Pacific Northwest because you experience a variety of beautiful landscapes from the beach to the mountains, while still getting the unique city vibes, culture, food, and craft beer that Oregon has to offer — all in one trip.”

“It’s the perfect road trip for outdoor enthusiasts/adventurers, photographers, and for anyone who enjoys great views and chill vibes,” she added.

While the city stops can be more expensive, those can be balanced by the nature ones.

“To keep it affordable, I’d opt for camping at Cannon Beach and Crater Lake, then sharing a hotel or home rental in Portland and Bend. This lets you shower and freshen up in between,” she said.

Some of Palma’s top recommendations as part of this road trip include hiking Mt. Scott, which is Crater Lake’s highest point. Also, she urges visitors to not miss out on viewing the night sky at Crater Lake — a free yet incredible experience.

Other recommendations include hiking or rock climbing at Smith Rock State Park near Bend, as well as going on a brewery tour in Bend, a city known for great beer.

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“There’s bound to be one you’ll love,” said Palma. “It’s really hard to pick a favorite but Crux stood out, not only for their beer but for their vibe with great food trucks, music, and a lawn to spread out.”

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : 4 Best Frugal Road Trips in the Pacific Northwest in 2024

7 Cheap Long Weekend Trips From Seattle For Under $500

Living in Seattle means you can enjoy plenty of long weekend getaways for $500 or less. Head to the mountains or islands without breaking the bank.

• Seattle offers affordable and scenic long weekend getaways, from islands to charming towns, all less than $500.
• Transportation costs for nearby trips are budget-friendly when you travel by car or local transport instead of flying.
• Enjoy free activities and budget-friendly accommodations in picturesque destinations like Orcas Island and Port Townsend.

Seattle is a pretty neat place to live. It's the most populous city in Washington, with over 730,000 residents , and it's no wonder why. Seattle is an art, culture, and Starbucks hub. Starbucks started in Seattle and ventured across the rest of America before hitting the rest of the world. However, there plenty of reasons to leave the city for a break; from hidden gem hikes within driving distance of Seattle .to beautiful national parks just outside Seattle's center , this city is surrounded by so many trip options.

Seattle is also close to some incredible towns and cities, too, meaning it's a great location for home as well as travel. If you wish to escape the city for a long weekend away but have a low budget, there's no need to panic; plenty of nearby hot spots are affordable and will please your travel tastebuds, from mountains to gorgeous islands, for less than $500.

To spend less, it is advised to travel via car or local transport. Flying is an option, but it isn't always cost-friendly. For those looking for affordable trip ideas from the city, here are some of the best cheap long weekend destinations from Seattle for less than $500.

7 Quick State & National Park Road Trips From Seattle

7 orcas island, washington, shuttle across to the port and jump on a ferry to orcas island and be surrounded by beautiful forests and clear waters in under 4.5 hours from seattle.

Orcas Island is a short distance from Seattle in the grand scheme of things. Most travel routes across America can take some time, but luckily, visitors can be surrounded by island life in under four and a half hours for less than $110. Shuttle and ferry tickets combined can be as cheap as $60.

On the horseshoe-shaped island in the San Juans, you can enjoy horseback riding, lush forests, cycling around the island, and boating on the lakes. On Orcas Island, you can experience plenty of adventures on a budget, spending next to nothing while enjoying free activities such as checking out the Orcas Island pottery, Judd Cove Preserve, or Turtleneck Mountain.

To get a restful night's sleep in between activities and relaxation, a great affordable spot is the Outlook Inn, where you can grab a bay view suite for two from $279. Or you can have an adventurous camping night at Lopez Farm Cottages & Tent Camping for $165.

6 Leavenworth, Washington

Spend the weekend in a bavarian-style village in the cascade mountains just 2 hours from seattle.

Leavenworth is an idyllic place to venture to for a cheap long weekend away from Seattle. The town of Leavenworth is one of Washington's prettiest winter towns , thanks to the Alpine-style buildings and Bavarian restaurants that will take your mind off the business of life.

You can be charmed here for a few days while living a much slower-paced lifestyle. You can soak up the unique architecture or head to the Cascade Mountains for a hike. The Cascade Mountains around Leavenworth offer plenty of fun trails for all hiking levels, and the beauty is so extraordinary it will take your breath away.

The car journey will take you a little over two hours from Seattle and cost around $46 for a round-trip for gas. The train might feel easier and more beautiful, taking around three and a half hours and costing about $48. Accommodation options are scarce but inviting. The most affordable options include the Loge Leavenworth Downtown or Orbetal Inn, which can cost around $250 for two nights.

Underrated, But Scenic: This Small Town In Washington Is A Great Alternative To Leavenworth

5 vancouver, canada, head from washington to canada in under 2.5 hours for a long weekend in beautiful vancouver for less than $500.

Vancouver is a shockingly affordable winter vacation spot in Canada , but it's also great to visit in all seasons. It is a city of arts, culture, hustle and bustle, and gorgeous surrounding mountains. It isn't a far car or train journey from Seattle, Washington, so there's no need to take a flight.

You can enjoy a round-trip for as little as $50. It's a two-and-a-half-hour trip in the car, where gas will cost you around $50. Meanwhile, the Amtrak Cascades route can take you there for roughly the same price in three and a half hours.

The cheapest accommodation options in Vancouver include guest houses and 3-star hotels, which will cost around $300 for two nights. Two options include the Vancouver Guest House and Broadway Guesthouse. After a peaceful night's sleep, you can venture out and enjoy plenty of free activities, from hanging out in Stanley Park and hiking the Grouse Grind to touring the city's art galleries.

4 Port Angeles, Washington

Spend your weekend on a quiet fishing-themed getaway in the small city of port angeles, only 2.5 hours from seattle.

Don't hesitate to take a short trip from Seattle to the Olympic National Park and stop at Port Angeles. Port Angeles, Washington, is famous for its fishing industry and industrial sector. Visitors can enjoy a charming downtown and waterfront here.

The city is tucked away in the Olympic Mountains, making it the ideal gateway to Olympic National Park, which is a short fifteen-minute drive away. Before heading there for some stunning scenery, you should check out Port Angeles' shopping opportunities in the downtown area and head for a nice lunch on the waterfront.

There are several transport options from Seattle to Port Angeles. A car ride will take around two and a half hours and cost up to $50 for gas. A bus journey is the cheapest yet longest option, costing around $8 to $40 for a round-trip and taking three and a half hours. Or, you can take the ferry, where tickets start from $25 and take just less than three hours.

A fantastic accommodation choice is the Riveria Inn as it is close to the town's landmarks and costs around $200 for two nights.

3 Port Townsend, Washington

Visit the quimper peninsula and enjoy great seafood, plenty of free activities, scenic beaches, and stunning sunrises, all just 2 hours from seattle.

Port Townsend is among the most beautiful cozy towns on the West Coast to visit at any time of year. In the fall, you will witness quieter crowds and reduced prices. This is ideal if you desire a short and affordable weekend trip from Seattle. However, it's also nice to visit year-round, and is less than two hours by car from Seattle.

Situated on the Quimper Peninsula in Jefferson County, Washington, visitors can expect miles of free beaches, trails, and cultural experiences. Also, expect amazing seafood and restaurants on the water; Hudson Point Cafe and Silverwater Cafe should not be missed.

If you want to see the sun come up with a cheap but tasty morning coffee, head to Hudson for an early morning breakfast as the sun is coming up and the boats are coming in and out. A restful night's sleep shouldn't cost much more than $120 if you stay at Aladdin Motor Inn or Port Townsend Inn.

7 Cutest Towns In Washington To Visit In 2024

2 bellingham, washington, head to the coast and enjoy a weekend by the water less than 1.5 hours from seattle while watching the ferries head in and out of the port to alaska.

One of the best hidden gem nature trails just outside Seattle can be found in Bellingham, Washington. The Whatcom Falls Park is one of the most loved natural landmarks outside the city. It is a very short road trip from Seattle, and you can get there in under ten minutes by car.

The majestic falls can be viewed from a stone bridge, and depending on the weather, the swell can reach up to a breathtaking 40 feet. Moreover, you can also enjoy the Fairhaven Historic District, SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention, and Boulevard Park.

Bellingham can be reached in less than an hour and a half from Seattle, and gas for the trip should cost less than $18. There is also the option to take the train, which costs around $20. Hotel rooms start from $90. The cheapest and best family-friendly accommodation here is the GuestHouse Inn Bellingham, where rooms range from $90 to $130.

7 Hiking Trails That End In Overlook Views Near Seattle

1 central oregon, a longer weekend trip to oregon is ideal for those who love fishing, hiking, and being outdoors (but this trip can take around 7 hours from seattle).

Central Oregon is a beautiful destination for a weekend away when you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Seattle. In the hub of Central Oregon, you can find plenty of nature-filled activities, from exploring Crater Lake National Park and its surrounding area to discovering the lava tubes.

Heading to Bend is a great option for those who want to spend most of their time outdoors. Bend offers plenty of activities , such as fishing, biking, hiking, golf, snow sports, river trails, and more. It's an adventurer's playground.

The car ride from Seattle to Bend can take up to seven hours, so driving might not be ideal. The best option is a train and bus combination, costing around $95 for a round-trip and taking nine hours each way. It's a bit of a trek but totally worth it if you want to spend time outdoors away from Washington.

Two accommodation options for an affordable long weekend include The Long Hollow Ranch and The Drift Inn Hotel and Restaurant, which can cost around $65 per night.

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A dramatic road trip to the Olympic National Forest

When visitors worldwide plan a road trip to Olympic National Park, the park’s midsection is often the true intended destination. The highways and byways travel some of the park’s most diverse, well-known and dramatic landscapes, encompassing stunning seascapes, megahit book and film locations and ancient, moody forests.

While the drive can be slow and long, it’s worth the unforgettable landscapes. Driving to Lake Crescent from Seattle takes about three hours — if you have no stops en route and the ferry runs on time. However, pulling off in Port Angeles or Lake Crescent Lodge for lunch is wise.

Then, continue on US-101 West, a two-lane highway that requires travelers to slow down for curves and other cars. After 23 minutes, pass the Klahowya Campground beneath the 3,055-foot Snider Peak. Camping is first come, first serve, and a summer tubing run routes along the Sol Duc River. Stop to snack at a picnic table, explore the interpretive nature trail or take a more ambitious hike.

Then, head west again for about 20 miles. The former logging town of Forks is the only larger town to the west of Port Angeles, and it is a home base for Twilight fans — and many others eager to stay in the mainland U.S.’s rainiest town.

Forks forward

There’s an annual Twilight festival in September, props and costumes at the “Forever Twilight in Forks Collection” in the Rainforest Arts Center , Twilight-themed tours and even a Twilight-themed room at the Pacific Coast Motel .  

At Forks, you’ll literally come to a fork in the road. Exploring multiple tines will take a day or more.

Head west on WA-110 toward one of the U.S.’s most extended stretches of wilderness coast, where you might spot sea lions and otters basking on sand, whales spouting in ocean waters and eagles soaring overhead. The coastline supplies endless headlands, sea stacks and rocky, crashing coastline.

Read the tide tables, then explore the Mora, La Push and Rialto Beach areas . Notable attractions include sea arch and tide pools at Mora’s Hole in the Wall, memorials and peek-a-boo low-tide views of the 200-plus shipwrecks off the Olympic Peninsula.

The region offers the south start of the 30-mile North Coast Route (no, not a typical maintained trail ) for more experienced hikers, with permit-required backcountry camping available along the way. It’s also roughly the midsection of Pacific Northwest Trail’s Section 10, Wilderness Coast .

If you want a day or more to explore, La Push’s Quileute Oceanside Resort recently underwent an upgrade for its collection of 74 cabins and motel rooms, along with petite “camper cabins,” RV spots and campsites. The resort is located on Quileute Tribal land; in July, enjoy fish bakes, traditional dancing, fireworks and outboard canoe racing on Quileute Days .

Drive back to Forks (or don’t detour) to go south on 101. Just south of Forks, you’ll pass 123-acre Bogachiel State Park , one of the few Washington state parks near Olympic National Park. On the Bogachiel River, find picnic sites and reservation camping — and a wandering Roosevelt elk herd, at times.

Hoh Rain Forest

Approach one of North America’s unique ecological wonders. Within the Hoh Rain Forest , maples drip with mosses and ferns cohabitate with firs. Nurse logs act as enormous growing containers for sprouting spruce and hemlock seeds. Deciduous leaves glow green from the sun’s rays above.

Over 140 inches of rain annually and fog-enshrouded valleys ensure a mysterious, cinematic vibe befitting a “Lord of the Rings” film. You may spot Roosevelt elk, beetles, banana slugs and one of more than 250 bird species that flock and feather nests here. Or just listen — you’ll likely hear the forest at work with birdsong, rustling boughs and insects humming.

Stop at the visitor center to browse books, chat with a ranger, attend a guided walk or determine the best hiking path. A wide variety of trails starting nearby suit all levels, but most differ in length, not ascent.

Hall of Mosses and Spruce Nature Trail are easy loop rambles of almost one mile. The Hoh River Trail runs a little over seven miles through a mosaic of ecosystems — temperate rainforest, montane forest, subalpine meadow and meadow basin.

Those wishing to stay overnight can sleep beneath the boughs in one of 72 sites . If sites are full, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources offers limited, primitive sites at Hoh Oxbow Campground, Minnie Peterson Campground and South Fork Hoh River Campground. The latter sits within the Olympic Experimental State Forest , a living lab for studying forestry.

Return home, or stay on 101 to see the park’s last third.

Whether you’re looking to make an environmentally conscious choice with a hybrid or to save cash with our new car lease deals, Western Washington Toyota Dealers can help you find a new car that keeps up with your lifestyle.

On the Kitsap Peninsula, a road trip to a sweet Scandinavian spot

Known as “Little Norway,” Poulsbo’s seaside Scandifluence is felt almost everywhere — from Finn Hill Road to Viking Avenue, Fjord Drive to Lindvig Way.

Head to Seabrook for a home base within reach of the Washington coast

In spring, Washington beaches reveal glimpses of migrating gray whales — bring binoculars to the coastal bluffs for the best whale-watching views.

Winter road trip: Mountains to Sound Greenway

The corridor offers sightseeing, sports and history amid conifer forests, alpine passes and more — but you’ll have to slow down a bit.

Head to Skykomish for a winter staycation

Stay close to home this weekend while experiencing the quiet, calm scenery of rural, small-town Washington in and around the Skykomish Valley.

Road trip to the North Olympic Peninsula: Port Angeles and beyond

The North Olympic Peninsula presents an array of mild-climate excursions, immersive arts and a vibrant shopping scene — just in time for the holidays.

Escape to Sequim: A road trip to a drier destination

Sequim offers a mix of pleasant weather and waterside retreats surrounded by the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Dungeness Bay and Sequim Bay.