The 8 Can't-Miss Towns In Washington
According to the State of Washington Tourism, Washington received nearly 111 million visits last year, which, comparatively, is more than twice the population of South Korea! The state is clearly a magnet for tourists. So where are all of these people heading? The following eight towns showcase some of the state’s most incredible attractions, including whale watching, rolling lavender fields, and Nordic-inspired communities, showcasing the extent of Washington’s beauty and diversity.
Sequim
Nationally known for its lavender production, Sequim is home to fields so picturesque they look straight out of a postcard. There are several lavender farms in the surrounding area that you can visit during your time in town, such as B&B Family Farm, which allows visitors to stop in and see the lavender production process between May and September of each year. Downtown, travelers can grab a lavender-themed souvenir from Cedarbrook Lavender & Herb Farm Gift Shop, which sells culinary products, bath and body items, essential oils, and more. The Dungeness River Nature Center offers a deeper look into Sequim’s nature and wildlife, featuring local exhibits and Railroad Bridge Park, where a historic bridge stretches across the Dungeness River.
Poulsbo
Been hoping to travel to Europe but haven’t had the time for such a long trip? Visit Poulsbo instead! Nicknamed “Little Norway,” this town is filled with Norwegian influence. The town’s annual Viking Fest, which takes place each May, is one of the most well-known showcases of the town’s Scandinavian heritage, celebrating its culture with a parade, carnival, and street fair that showcases all things Viking. If you are craving some European grub, grab a bite and beer at Tizley’s, which serves all kinds of European favorites. Nordiska is a great place to purchase a souvenir, specializing in kitchen goods, housewares, and gifts with Nordic influence.
Friday Harbor
Renowned for its whale-watching opportunities, Friday Harbor is a must-visit for travelers eager to see the world’s largest mammals up close. Western Prince Whale & Wildlife Tours is a great agency to book a tour with, with potential whale sightings including orcas, humpbacks, minke, and grays, depending on the time of year. If you prefer to explore the water via kayak, consider signing up for a tour with San Juan Kayak Expeditions, which offers both day tours and multi-day camping and inn-based tours, depending on your preference. For a film screening or musical performance, check out the calendar for the San Juan Community Theatre, which hosts orchestra concerts, summer film series, and more.
Port Townsend
With miles of beaches and a historic fort, Port Townsend is an excellent destination for travelers seeking an itinerary rich in both history and nature. Fort Worden State Park offers a bit of everything, home to a military base that dates back to the early 20th century, miles of trails, and many acres of saltwater beaches. Kayakers can book a tour with Olympic Tours, a local outfitter that guides visitors through Admiralty Inlet, where they can appreciate wildlife sightings and mountain views from the water. Looking for a place to spend the night? The Commander’s Beach House Bed and Breakfast is the perfect refuge, located right on the waterfront at Point Hudson Marina.
Winthrop
With rodeos and horseback rides, Winthrop provides visitors with a truly Western experience. The Methow Valley Rodeo has been taking place for over 50 years in town, occurring each Labor and Memorial Day weekend with bulls, barrel racing, ranch saddle bronc, and more. Several ranches offer trail rides as well, such as Sun Mountain Lodge, guided by local and experienced wranglers. March is one of the best times to visit the town during the annual Winthrop Balloon Roundup. Over the course of three days, colorful balloons take to the air, creating an incredible sight.
Coupeville
If you are looking for a relaxing weekend retreat, you won’t find a place better suited than Coupeville. This small town on Whidbey Island, just an hour and 45 minutes from Seattle, offers a refreshing contrast to city life. There are plenty of charming boutiques and galleries to browse, such as Penn Cove Gallery, the longest continuously operating co-op on the island. A sailing charter is another wonderful way to experience the area, with Left Coast Charters offering excursions on their boat, a reproduction of a late 19th-century working catboat. Turn in for the night at The Coupeville Inn, a cozy, French Mansard-style inn that is just a block away from some of the town’s most beloved restaurants and shops.
La Conner
Situated along the banks of the Swinomish Channel, La Conner is a relaxed town with plenty of opportunities for water recreation. Travelers can begin their visit with a stroll along the La Conner Marina, a spacious and well-kept dock lined with hundreds of boats and offering 2,400 feet of guest moorage for those with a boat of their own. Kayakers, meanwhile, can enjoy an afternoon on the Swinomish Channel, which extends for 11 miles and has a launch point from La Conner’s Pioneer Park. If a day of kayaking has worked up an appetite, grab dinner at La Conner Seafood & Prime Rib, a waterfront restaurant on the channel that serves scratch-made, locally sourced meals.
Roslyn
Designated a National Historic District in 1978, Roslyn preserves much of its original architecture and mining heritage. To kick off your history-filled adventure, stop by the Roslyn Historical Museum, which tells the story of the town’s coal mining era and how it united residents of various backgrounds and nationalities. Another landmark worth visiting is The Brick Saloon, a bar dating back to 1889 and among the oldest in Washington. Grab a coffee and souvenir at the Roslyn Old Company Mercantile, an adorable coffee shop that doubles as a gift and local goods shop.
While these towns are a few of the most beautiful to visit, Washington’s beauty does not stop there. Towns like Leavenworth, Seabrook, and Chelan also contribute to the state’s appeal for tourists, making it tough to narrow the list to just eight. However, these towns, with their historic mining heritage, kayaking excursions, and 20th-century forts, offer a unique experience for your travels this year. Just pick the town that draws you in the most and get ready to have an unforgettable vacation!
