Washington is wild, scenic, and full of contrast. If you are planning a trip and searching for the Best Things to Do in Washington, you will quickly realise that this Pacific Northwest state offers far more than evergreen forests and rainy skies. From snow-capped mountains and rugged coastlines to vibrant cities and island escapes, Washington blends outdoor adventure, cultural depth, and culinary creativity in one diverse destination.
Located in the northwestern corner of the United States, Washington is bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Canada, and dramatic mountain ranges. The Best Things to Do in Washington range from exploring national parks and hiking volcanic peaks to enjoying waterfront markets and sipping world-class coffee in Seattle.
The most memorable Best Things to Do in Washington combine natural beauty, creative urban energy, and small-town charm. Whether you are travelling solo, as a couple, or with family, this guide will help you create a balanced and rewarding itinerary.
Iconic City Experiences Best Things to Do in Washington
Washington’s cities add culture, innovation, and waterfront energy to the Best Things to Do in Washington.
1. Visit the Space Needle
Space Needle is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the Pacific Northwest. Visiting its observation deck is among the essential Best Things to Do in Washington.
Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the tower offers panoramic views of Seattle’s skyline, Mount Rainier, and Puget Sound. The rotating glass floor adds a modern twist, allowing visitors to look straight down at the city below.
Including the Space Needle among the Best Things to Do in Washington provides a perfect introduction to the state’s largest city.
2. Explore Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is a lively waterfront market filled with local vendors, fresh seafood, flowers, and artisan goods. Wandering its stalls is one of the classic Best Things to Do in Washington.
The market is also home to the original Starbucks store and famous fish-throwing vendors. Sampling local produce and street food adds flavour to your visit.
3. Walk Along Seattle Waterfront
Seattle Waterfront offers scenic harbour views, ferries, and casual dining spots. Walking here ranks among the relaxing Best Things to Do in Washington.
Mountain and National Park Best Things to Do in Washington
Washington’s dramatic landscapes are the heart of the state’s appeal. Snow-covered volcanoes, lush rainforests, glacier-fed lakes, and rugged coastlines define many of the Best Things to Do in Washington. If you enjoy hiking, photography, or simply standing in awe of nature, these national parks should be at the top of your itinerary.
4. Explore Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park is centred around Mount Rainier, a 14,410-foot active volcano that dominates the skyline on clear days. Exploring this park is easily among the most scenic Best Things to Do in Washington.
The Paradise area is famous for its wildflower meadows in summer, when vibrant blooms blanket the slopes beneath the snow-capped peak. Sunrise, the highest point reachable by car in the park, offers sweeping alpine views and access to popular hiking trails.
Visitors can choose from short nature walks to challenging summit routes. Including Mount Rainier National Park among the Best Things to Do in Washington ensures a true Pacific Northwest mountain experience.
5. Visit Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park showcases one of the most diverse ecosystems in the United States. Exploring this vast park ranks among the adventurous Best Things to Do in Washington.
Within a single day, you can walk through the moss-covered Hoh Rain Forest, stand on the rocky shoreline of Rialto Beach, and drive up to Hurricane Ridge for panoramic mountain views. The combination of temperate rainforest, glacier-capped peaks, and Pacific coastline makes Olympic National Park uniquely varied.
Wildlife such as elk and bald eagles are often spotted throughout the park. Adding Olympic National Park to your list of Best Things to Do in Washington highlights the state’s incredible environmental diversity.
6. Discover North Cascades National Park
North Cascades National Park is often called the “American Alps” due to its jagged peaks and alpine lakes. Visiting this park ranks among the breathtaking Best Things to Do in Washington for nature lovers.
The scenic North Cascades Highway provides dramatic views of turquoise lakes such as Diablo Lake and towering granite spires. Hiking trails range from gentle forest walks to demanding backcountry routes that reward visitors with glacier views.
Because it receives fewer visitors than some other national parks, North Cascades offers a quieter and more remote experience. Including it among the Best Things to Do in Washington allows you to explore untouched mountain wilderness and striking scenery.
Island and Coastal Best Things to Do in Washington
Washington’s coastal beauty and charming small towns add variety and relaxation to the Best Things to Do in Washington. From ferry rides across Puget Sound to alpine-style villages and sun-drenched lake shores, these destinations provide a slower pace and memorable scenery.
7. Visit the San Juan Islands
San Juan Islands offer peaceful harbours, forested shorelines, and abundant marine wildlife. Taking a ferry through the Salish Sea to reach these islands is one of the calming Best Things to Do in Washington.
The journey itself is part of the experience, with views of distant mountains and passing sailboats. Once there, visitors can explore Friday Harbor, kayak along quiet coves, or enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.
Whale watching tours are especially popular, with orca sightings drawing travellers from around the world. Including the San Juan Islands among the Best Things to Do in Washington adds a coastal escape filled with natural beauty and tranquillity.
8. Explore Leavenworth
Leavenworth is a Bavarian-style village set against a backdrop of mountain peaks. Visiting this charming town is one of the unique Best Things to Do in Washington.
The architecture reflects traditional German alpine design, with timber-framed buildings and colourful flower boxes. Seasonal festivals such as Oktoberfest and Christmas lighting events attract visitors year-round.
Outdoor activities, including hiking and river rafting, surround the town, making it both scenic and lively. Adding Leavenworth to your list of Best Things to Do in Washington combines cultural flair with mountain charm.
9. Relax at Lake Chelan
Lake Chelan stretches more than 50 miles through central Washington and offers crystal-clear water surrounded by hills. Spending time here is one of the refreshing Best Things to Do in Washington.
Boating, paddleboarding, and swimming are popular during summer, while nearby vineyards provide wine tasting with lake views. The town of Chelan offers relaxed dining and waterfront parks.
The warm climate in this region creates a pleasant contrast to western Washington’s cooler coastal weather. Including Lake Chelan among the Best Things to Do in Washington adds sunshine, scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere to your itinerary.
Culture and History Best Things to Do in Washington
Beyond mountains and coastlines, Washington offers rich cultural institutions and historic innovation that expand the Best Things to Do in Washington. From music and film exhibits to aerospace engineering and waterfront art districts, these attractions highlight the state’s creative and industrial legacy.
10. Visit the Museum of Pop Culture
Museum of Pop Culture, often called MoPOP, celebrates music, science fiction, film, and contemporary creativity. Visiting this bold, architecturally striking museum stands among the creative Best Things to Do in Washington.
Located next to the Space Needle in Seattle, the building itself is a work of art, designed by architect Frank Gehry. Inside, interactive exhibits explore everything from rock legends like Jimi Hendrix to iconic movies and video games.
Hands-on sound labs and rotating exhibitions keep the experience dynamic. Including the Museum of Pop Culture among the Best Things to Do in Washington offers insight into the state’s strong connection to global entertainment and innovation.
11. Tour the Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour
Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour in Everett provides a behind-the-scenes look at aerospace engineering. Touring this facility is one of the educational Best Things to Do in Washington.
Visitors learn about aircraft design, manufacturing processes, and the history of Boeing’s contributions to global aviation. The tour includes views into one of the largest buildings in the world by volume, where wide-body aircraft are assembled.
Interactive displays and flight simulators add engaging elements for all ages. Adding the Boeing tour to your list of Best Things to Do in Washington connects you to the state’s role as a leader in aviation technology.
12. Explore Tacoma’s Museum District
Tacoma offers a compact but impressive museum district along its waterfront. Discovering this cultural hub adds depth and variety to the Best Things to Do in Washington.
The area includes institutions such as the Museum of Glass, which highlights contemporary glass art, and the Tacoma Art Museum, showcasing regional artists. The Chihuly Bridge of Glass, spanning the freeway, displays vibrant glass sculptures and connects the museums to the waterfront.
The nearby Thea Foss Waterway provides scenic views and walking paths. Including Tacoma among the Best Things to Do in Washington blends art, architecture, and harbour scenery into one engaging destination.
Scenic Drives and Outdoor Adventure Best Things to Do in Washington
Washington is made for road trips and outdoor exploration. From winding mountain highways to volcanic landscapes and thundering waterfalls, these experiences highlight the adventurous side of the Best Things to Do in Washington.
13. Drive the Cascade Loop
Cascade Loop is a 440-mile scenic highway route that circles through mountains, river valleys, and charming small towns. Cruising this route is one of the panoramic Best Things to Do in Washington.
The drive passes through the North Cascades, along the Columbia River, and into Bavarian-style Leavenworth. Along the way, you will encounter alpine lakes, orchards, and dramatic viewpoints that change with the seasons.
Autumn brings vibrant foliage, while spring and summer showcase snow-capped peaks and wildflowers. Including the Cascade Loop among the Best Things to Do in Washington provides a flexible adventure that can be completed over a few days or extended into a full road trip.
14. Go Hiking in Mount St. Helens
Mount St. Helens remains one of the most fascinating volcanic landscapes in the United States. Visiting this site ranks among the dramatic Best Things to Do in Washington.
The 1980 eruption reshaped the mountain and surrounding terrain, creating a unique environment for exploration. Visitor centres provide detailed information about the eruption and the ongoing recovery of the ecosystem.
Hiking trails range from short scenic walks to challenging summit climbs for experienced hikers. Including Mount St. Helens in your Best Things to Do in Washington itinerary offers both education and striking geological scenery.
15. Experience Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie Falls plunges 268 feet into a mist-filled gorge, creating one of the most powerful natural sights in the state. Viewing the falls is among the impressive Best Things to Do in Washington.
Located about 30 miles east of Seattle, the falls are easily accessible via a short walk from the parking area to the main observation deck. For a closer perspective, a trail leads down to the riverbank below.
The surrounding forest and constant mist create a dramatic atmosphere year-round. Adding Snoqualmie Falls to your list of Best Things to Do in Washington ensures a memorable stop that combines accessibility with natural beauty.
Food and Relaxation Best Things to Do in Washington
After exploring mountains, coastlines, and vibrant cities, slowing down is just as important. Washington’s wine regions and peaceful coastal parks add balance to the Best Things to Do in Washington, offering moments to unwind while still enjoying beautiful surroundings.
16. Visit Woodinville Wine Country
Woodinville is one of the state’s premier wine destinations, located just northeast of Seattle. Wine tasting here ranks among the relaxing Best Things to Do in Washington.
The area features dozens of tasting rooms, from large, well-known producers to smaller boutique wineries. Visitors can sample Washington-grown varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Riesling while learning about the state’s thriving wine industry.
Many tasting rooms are within walking distance of one another, making it easy to spend an afternoon exploring at a comfortable pace. Adding Woodinville to your list of Best Things to Do in Washington combines scenic charm with refined flavours.
17. Watch Sunset at Discovery Park
Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest green space and offers sweeping views of Puget Sound. Ending your day here is one of the peaceful Best Things to Do in Washington.
The park features forested trails, open meadows, and a path leading down to West Point Lighthouse along the shoreline. As the sun sets, the sky reflects across the water with views of the Olympic Mountains in the distance.
The combination of quiet trails and coastal scenery creates a calming atmosphere. Including Discovery Park among the Best Things to Do in Washington provides a gentle and scenic conclusion to any busy travel day.
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Conclusion:
Washington rewards travellers with contrast and beauty. When exploring the Best Things to Do in Washington, you encounter towering volcanoes, rainforest trails, coastal islands, vibrant cities, and culinary experiences within one state.
The true strength of the Best Things to Do in Washington lies in diversity. You can hike through alpine meadows in the morning, explore a bustling waterfront market in the afternoon, and relax beside a mountain lake at sunset. Whether you visit for adventure, culture, or quiet reflection, Washington offers experiences that remain vivid long after your journey ends.
