8 Stunning Small Towns In Washington
Washington’s landscape stretches from the rugged shores and misty forests of the Olympic Peninsula to the clear waters of Puget Sound and the dramatic peaks of the Cascades. Tucked between bays and mountains, the state’s small towns each offer a distinct slice of that scenery. In Poulsbo, Scandinavian-style storefronts overlook Liberty Bay, while Snoqualmie is known for its towering waterfall and railroad history. Friday Harbor brings ferry-land charm on San Juan Island, and Leavenworth delivers alpine views with a Bavarian-inspired downtown. For travelers drawn to waterfront walks, mountain trails, and towns with real character, these small Washington destinations show off some of the state’s most stunning scenery!
Poulsbo
West of Seattle is the storybook village of Poulsbo. Settled by Norwegian and Scandinavian immigrants in the late 1800s, the colorful Scandinavian-inspired architecture along the narrow winding roads downtown feels like stepping into a storybook. Front Street winds along the shore of Liberty Bay, and you’ll find quaint storefronts like Nordiska or Crimson Cove Smoked Specialties that sell gourmet treats.
After a cozy afternoon exploring Front Street, you can head across the street to Liberty Bay Waterfront Park with coffee in hand to watch ships dock at the marina. It’s a great place to relax, walk along the calming shores of Liberty Bay, or set up a picnic at one of its many picnic tables. There’s no better way to end your day in Poulsbo than stopping by the Bushel & Barrel Ciderhouse amongst the fragrant Douglas-fir trees.
Snoqualmie
East of Seattle in the heart of the Cascade Range is the picturesque town of Snoqualmie, made famous as one of the filming locations for the TV series Twin Peaks. The Snoqualmie Valley Railroad is one of the best ways to see all the natural attractions in town in the comfort of their rustic passenger cars. A two-hour ride takes you by Snoqualmie Falls and Snoqualmie Mountain before stopping at the Railway History Campus and the Train Shed Exhibit Hall before heading back.
Snoqualmie Falls is truly one of the most breathtaking sights in Washington. This famous waterfall rises 268 feet high—more than 100 feet taller than Niagara Falls! It gracefully flows over granite cliffs into the sparkling waters of the Snoqualmie River below. Taking a walk along the Snoqualmie Falls Trail is about 45 minutes—yes, it’s a bit of a climb, but the incredible views at the top make it so worthwhile! If you enjoy natural beauty and charming, historic towns full of interesting sights, be sure to include Snoqualmie in your next Washington road trip plans.
Chelan
Washington may have a reputation for being a little rainy, but not in Chelan! This sleepy little town averages over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it an ideal town to get out and enjoy the great Washington wilderness. Nestled on the southern tip of Lake Chelan, water views, sunshine, and cozy city streets are not in short supply.
Lakeside Park provides a public beach with sandy shores, clear waters, and distant rolling hills, perfect for enjoying sunshine. Don Morse Memorial Park offers a more urban waterside experience with amenities like a golf course, boat rentals, a playground, and a snack bar. For those eager to hike and explore Chelan's wilderness, the Chelan Ranger District in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest covers over 400,000 acres and features fourteen scenic trails. Overall, Chelan is an ideal lakeside getaway with breathtaking scenery.
Friday Harbor
Isolated on San Juan Island is the coastal fishing village of Friday Harbor. It’s a walkable city without a single traffic light! Walking the colorful and quiet city streets feels like stepping back in time. You can stop in local shops like Dockside Treasures at Cannery Landing. Just three blocks from the ferry landing is The Whale Museum where you can learn more about the marine life of the area.
While downtown Friday Harbor offers plenty to keep you entertained, consider venturing just outside the city to experience San Juan Island's natural beauty. Jackson Beach Park, located on the North Shore, features a rustic landscape with driftwood and rocky shores. It’s an ideal spot for a tranquil walk by the water, and it’s seldom crowded. For a peaceful escape in a charming island town, don't miss the hidden gem that is Friday Harbor.
Port Townsend
Located just north of Seattle on the Olympic Peninsula, Port Townsend is a charming yet often overlooked town. This tranquil village is full of surprises, such as waterfalls, hot springs, and rocky beaches. Although it tends to be rainy, the weather contributes to green forests and beautiful waterfalls. The Olympic Peninsula Waterfall Trail features twenty waterfalls—Madison Falls is easily accessible via a paved, wheelchair-friendly path, while some other trails involve more challenging climbs for those seeking scenic views.
Olympic National Park is accessible via Port Townsend. With 70 miles of coastline, rugged mountain peaks, and beautiful views, it’s a must-see for nature lovers. However, the best part of the park is the Olympic Hot Springs! It takes a little over 2 miles to reach the hot springs, but it’s worth the trek to soak in warm water with canyon and waterfall vistas. When you want to experience Washington at its finest (sans the crowds), check out Port Townsend!
Sequim
Welcome to the Lavender Capital of North America! Sequim is a charming town located on Sequim Bay at the foot of the Olympic Mountains, filling the air with the scent of fresh lavender during summer. The area features several lavender farms, such as Cedarbrook Lavender Farm and Victor’s Lavender Farm, where visitors can stroll through fragrant fields and pick their own lavender when in bloom. If you visit in late July, don't miss the Sequim Lavender Festival, an event dedicated to celebrating all things lavender!
If you find yourself in Sequim outside of the lavender season, there’s still plenty of natural beauty to enjoy! Sequim is a part of the Olympic Discovery Trail that traces the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Pacific Ocean. This paved trail gives hikers, joggers, and cyclists some of the best Washington views, like snow-capped mountains, miles of shoreline, and lush green forests. While Sequim is a must-visit during lavender season, it’s a seaside escape that's idyllic and relaxing 12 months out of the year.
Coupeville
Located on Whidbey Island, the delightful village of Coupeville invites you to explore its charming streets and historic buildings that overlook the salty, fragrant shores. Take your time strolling through cozy local shops on Front Street, like Aqua Gifts or Kingfisher Bookstore, and indulge in some of the best seafood the state has to offer! The Oystercatcher, a favorite among locals, serves seasonal farm-to-table dishes alongside stunning water views. For those eager to connect with nature, Fort Ebey State Park offers breathtaking vistas of Puget Sound. Once a World War II coastal defense fort, today it’s a wonderful spot for scenic hikes, biking, and relaxing on the beach. You can even explore the historic concrete gun emplacements and underground rooms. With stunning sunsets, picturesque scenery, and a lively downtown, Coupeville makes for an ideal long weekend getaway in Washington.
Leavenworth
Traveling to the charming Bavarian village of Leavenworth truly feels like stepping into a storybook. Surrounded by the majestic South Cascade Mountains, reminiscent of the Alps, the entire town was given a delightful European makeover in the 1960s to welcome more visitors. Front Street Park is the vibrant heart of Leavenworth, bustling with seasonal events all year round. During the summer, it’s a beautifully maintained greenspace filled with live music, and in winter, it transforms into a sparkling icy wonderland.
If you’re eager to discover the stunning wilderness of central Washington, Leavenworth offers some fantastic public parks. Icicle Ridge, nestled in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, is a breathtaking trail open all year round. The hike to the top may be a bit challenging, but it rewards you with stunning views of the Leavenworth Valley. The Snow Lakes Trailhead is another exhilarating hike that treats you to sweeping vistas of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. And even in June, it’s not uncommon to find a few snowy patches along the trail—adding a special touch to your adventure.
These Washington towns are stunningly beautiful. You can stroll the rocky beaches of Coupeville or be transported to a wintery Bavarian village in Leavenworth. Take in the salty sea air of the Puget Sound in Poulsbo, the thick evergreen trees in Snoqualmie, or the fragrant lavender field of Sequim in the summer. In these stunning Washington towns, the locals are friendly, the air is fresh and clean, and every corner is a new opportunity for adventure.
