Must-Visit Places in Washington: Washington State has everything from a rugged coastline to towering mountain ranges. Washington is known for its production of apples, pears, raspberries, spearmint oil and sweet cherries. You can witness around 5000 horses roaming around the Yakima Indian Reservation.
The state is home to the four out of five longest floating bridges in the world. There are around 40,000 miles of rivers and streams and 8,000 lakes in Washington. Each spot promises its own unique blend of scenery, history, and charm, making Washington a must-visit place for any explorer.
Pack your bags and get ready for a memorable journey through these 11 Must-Visit Places in Washington
Olympic National Park #1
Olympic National Park was established in 1938. Now the park protects one of the oldest blocks of plants. This park is in the northwest part of Washington. You will witness species like racoons, beaver and mink. You can also relax on the Kalaloch beach, located on the southwest side of the park. Hike amidst ancient trees and one long day will be enough to visit each of the Olympics’ major ecosystems.
Mount Rainier National Park #2
Mount Rainer became a national park in 1899, it is the most glaciated peak in Washington. The national park is located in west-central Washington. You will find species like black bears, coyotes, bobcats, racoons, short and long-tailed weasels. It is an active volcano of the Cascade Range in Washington.
Mount Rainer has not produced any significant eruption in the last 500 years. You can have a stay in the national park. There are iconic national park lodges on the south side of Mount Rainer.
Seattle #3
Known as the Emerald City, Seattle is surrounded by natural beauty. There is no shortage of things to do in this metropolis city. You can explore and shop in the bustling Pike Place Market. Enjoy the city’s rich music history at the Museum of Pop Culture and immerse yourself in art at the Seattle Art Museum.
San Juan Islands #4
Enjoy, shore-based orca whale watching and sea kayaking in the heart of the Salish Sea. Explore historic Friday Harbour. Known for their iconic Pacific Northwest landscapes and wildlife. There are a total of 172 islands. Outdoor enthusiasts can play on the incredible outdoor playground.
Leavenworth #5
Transport yourself to a Bavarian village in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. Known for its charming architecture, this town offers a delightful blend of outdoor recreation and cultural experiences. Enjoy the annual Oktoberfest celebration, go hiking in nearby trails, and German cuisine.
Columbia River Gorge #6
Columbia River Gorge is a canyon of the Columbia River in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. It is a stunning landscape full of breathtaking vistas and abundant waterfalls. The best time to visit Columbia River Gorge is late April through June and then again in September and October.
North Cascades National Park #7
North Cascades National Park is a true gem. This national park is a highly underrated park, especially for hikers and backpackers. You will enjoy hiking in the middle of the scenic beauty and waterfalls.
Spokane #8
This city offers a mix of urban attractions and natural beauty. Visit the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture for a dose of history and culture. This place is known as the birthplace of “Father’s Day”. The food of the Spokane tribe included salmon and trout and a variety of meats from the animals and birds.
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument #9
The volcanic eruption in 1980 left a dramatic scar on the landscape. This place turned out to be the ideal laboratory to study volcanic activity.
Whidbey Island #10
This town has it all, salty beaches, epic mountain views and historic towns. Living on an island is different. You will have ferries, rural roads, private septic systems and wells.
Chihuly Garden and Glass, Tacoma #11
This was opened in May 2012. You can explore the breathtaking artwork of Dale Chihuly. The vibrant colours of the pieces are sure to captivate and inspire you. In conclusion, Washington State offers experiences for travellers seeking natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural exploration.
Explore these 11 must-visit places, and embark on a journey of discovery in the Evergreen State.