8 Overlooked Towns In Washington Worth Visiting

Washington state is a place of great beauty. In the northwest corner of the United States, it sits against the Pacific Ocean to the west. Its capital city, Olympia, rests along Puget Sound, a large water inlet that stretches through the state. These geographic features, together with Washington's many waterways, make it a popular destination for both living and visiting. Yet most people limit their time to the state's largest cities, such as Seattle. The many small towns and cities in the region each hold their own character. If you visit Washington, consider spending time in one of these lesser-known towns.

Langley

The coastal town of Langley overlooks Saratoga Passage and makes for a pleasant seaside visit. The first stop for many visitors is Seawall Park, which has some of the best views of the water. Although the park is small, it provides scenic vantage points that appeal to photographers. Langley is also known for its art scene. Across the street from the park, you will find several galleries. Callahan's Firehouse Studio Gallery specializes in creating glassworks, including Shelley bowls, tumblers, and paperweights. While you can buy a piece, you can also make your own during one of the studio classes.

After visiting the galleries, you can walk to the Langley Whale Center. The center focuses on educating visitors about the orcas that migrate to the area each fall and winter. Displays show the locations of whales in the region and include skeletal specimens from local marine life.

Edmonds

Edmonds is another seaside town facing Puget Sound. It was the state's first Certified Creative District. The walkable downtown area contains several art galleries, including the Cole Gallery and Art Studio. The school offers classes to visitors, with some requiring two or four days to complete. Weekend visitors can take single-day courses when they are available. A more traditional gallery sits down the street at the Cascadia Art Museum. The museum features exhibits in multiple media, shown through permanent and rotating displays.

Those who prefer spending time on the water can visit Northwest Fishing Charters, which runs daily fishing trips on Puget Sound. Anglers can cast a line for salmon and other fish found in the area.

Moses Lake

Moses Lake enjoys a scenic setting along the northern shoreline of Moses Lake and near Parker Horn, an arm of the lake that extends into the town. Cascade Park is a popular stop. Along Lewis Horn, the park has open space to walk beside the water, and visitors who want to set sail can use the park boat launch. Seasonal campgrounds are available for those who want to stay near the lake.

The Moses Lake Museum and Art Center continues the region’s focus on art with galleries of contemporary work and regional Native American artifacts that highlight the area’s past. Depending on the time of year, the Grant County Fairgrounds hosts a range of events. Smaller farmers markets, Christmas markets, kart racing, and Dia de los Muertos celebrations with live music and dancing all appear on the schedule.

Vashon

The town of Vashon sits on Vashon Island, one of the largest islands in Puget Sound. Surrounded by water, many visitors begin at Maury Island Marine Park. Guests can walk more than a mile of shoreline and follow trails up nearby hills for more expansive views of the surrounding waters. For photographs, many head to the nearby Point Robinson Lighthouse. The lighthouse stands within Point Robinson, a 10-acre shoreline park with clear views of the East Passage. The light station began operation in 1885 and became fully automated in 1978. Those interested in a unique stay can rent one of the two restored lighthouse keepers' quarters as vacation rentals.

Back on Vashon Island, visitors can learn about the area’s history at the Vashon Heritage Museum. Exhibits trace the story of Vashon from its earliest inhabitants and include rotating displays on topics such as hydroplanes or the birds that have appeared in the region over the years.

Poulsbo

Poulsbo stands on the shores of Liberty Bay and has been home to people since the Suquamish people lived in the area. Norwegian immigrants later settled here, and today, visitors enjoy the same outdoor setting. Poulsbo's Fish Park includes a boardwalk that guides guests through the surrounding forests and wetlands along Dogfish Creek and the Liberty Bay Estuary. Along the way, visitors will see interpretive signs and artwork displays, including the spearfisherman mural beneath the Lindvig Way bridge.

Given the town’s heritage, a simple walk through Poulsbo remains a highlight. Front Street features buildings designed in a Scandinavian style, as well as large murals, such as those depicting Viking warriors, painted on the walls. For a clear look at the town’s past, many stop at the Heritage Museum. Rotating exhibits showcase the area’s Scandinavian heritage and the lives of Norwegian immigrants who settled in the region.

Woodinville

Woodinville is a small city along Little Bear Creek and the Sammamish River. New arrivals often start in the Tourist District near downtown. The district includes several places to eat and taste wine, including Delille Cellars. The tasting room features Bordeaux-style blends, and the adjacent Restaurant at Delille was named one of the top 10 winery restaurants by USA Today.

For an evening activity, Woodinville Repertory Theatre is a steady option. Productions such as I Hate Hamlet and comedy dramas like Steel Magnolias have appeared in Woodinville through the theater. For a full day of sightseeing, visitors can head to the nearby Over The Rainbow Hot Air Balloon Rides. Flights operate throughout most of the year and offer panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Anacortes

Anacortes sits on Fidalgo Bay and is popular with visitors who enjoy time near the water. Washington Park is a strong choice for views and a day outdoors. The trails through the park give visitors a clear look at the landscape, and camping is available for those who wish to stay overnight. Not far from the park, visitors will find Anacortes Kayak Tour. The tours are an accessible way to see the nearby San Juan Islands. As you travel, you can watch the surrounding shorelines and may spot wildlife that lives in the area. Some tours depart from Deception Pass State Park for about 1.5 hours, while others from Anacortes last three to five hours.

While in the region, many spend a whole day at Deception Pass State Park. Biking trails cross the park, and birdwatchers will find flocks to follow. Visitors can also head to the beach and enter the water in designated areas.

Walla Walla

Walla Walla is home to several creeks and waterways that help shape the town, making it a steady destination for many visitors. Residents and guests spend time at Pioneer Park, the city's oldest park and an important landmark since 1902. The outdoor aviary, rose garden, and duck pond create a quiet setting where visitors can observe ducks and other birds. Nearby Main Street contains a range of dining and shopping options, along with several distinctive stops.

The Museum of Un-Natural History may appear unusual, but its collection of Surrealist and Absurdist sculptures makes it a memorable place to visit. There are also events for those who enjoy live music. The Walla Walla Guitar Festival draws visitors from around the region, and the Downtown Summer Concert Series brings performances to Heritage Square each year.

Small Washington Towns With Distinct Identities

Everyone knows the large cities in Washington, such as Seattle and Spokane, and there is plenty to do in both. However, it is easy to miss much of the state's beauty and culture if you never visit the smaller towns that are often overlooked. Whether you are thinking of moving to the area or planning a trip, you can add one of these nine towns to your list. Each offers its own pace and setting for anyone spending time in Washington state.