Washington is beautiful in any season, and we’re lucky we get to experience all four of them. That being said, some of our cities and towns seem even more amazing in the summertime, while others are next to impossible to get to during the winter.
If you’re hoping to visit any of these places this year, summer may be the best time to do so. And if they’re too far away for a day trip, treat yourself to a getaway.
1.Winthrop
Gouldy99 / Flickr Since most of the North Cascades closes down during harsh winter weather (which happens frequently), this charming Old West town is best enjoyed in the summer sun. From shopping to hiking and enjoying live music at the Old Schoolhouse Brewery, you’ll find plenty to do here.
- Spokane
Nick Bramhall / Flickr Spokane is Washington’s second largest city, and you’ll find great entertainment here in every season. But there’s something about Riverfront Park on a warm summer day - not to mention outdoor dining, outdoor movies, Farmers Markets and summer festivals- that make Spokane a perfect warm-weather destination.
- Long Beach
Christopher / Flickr Our coastal communities aren’t exactly known for their endless sunshine or warm weather. But if you happen to catch Long Beach on the right summer day, you’ll be treated to both.
- Bainbridge Island
memyselfone / TripAdvisor Just taking the ferry from the Seattle waterfront to Bainbridge Island is a magical experience, especially on a clear day. But once you arrive on the island, you’ll find a brewery, wineries, shops and eateries awaiting you, not to mention natural beauty like the Bloedel Reserve.
- Walla Walla
Visit Walla Walla Facebook We’ve previously touted Walla Walla as an amazing autumn destination. But in addition to sipping and swirling your wine on an outdoor patio overlooking the county’s sweeping views, visiting in the summertime means warmer streets to stroll, winery events to enjoy and Farmers Markets with the best fresh local produce.
- Port Townsend
Enjoy Port Townsend Facebook The stunning waterfront of Washington’s Victorian village is simply irresistible on a warm summer day. Plus, you’ll find a surprisingly large number of events and activities in this tiny city.
- Lopez Island
Marius Strom / Flickr Laid back and secluded, Lopez Island is called “Slo-pez” since time seems to slow down there. But summer is when this little island comes alive. Seasonal eateries open, the farms start selling their best creations, and the (infrequent but appreciated) sunshine makes the waterfront parks look even better.
- Kirkland
Carillon Point Facebook Kirkland Summerfest (held every August) is a wonderful mix of live music, food and entertainment that always draws people to this Seattle suburb. But visiting Kirkland anytime in the summer is delightful, especially if you stay at the Woodmark Hotel and enjoy all the amenities of Carillon Point.
- Sequim
Eliza Adam / Flickr Lavender season. Need we need more?
- Chelan
Lake Chelan Facebook While it’s true that Lake Chelan is one of the most popular summer destinations for Washingtonians, summer also happens to be the absolute best time to visit. Try to plan a trip during the week, prepare to share the space with crowds, and enjoy it to the fullest.
There’s nothing like a Washington summer. Here’s a great summer bucket list full of fun ideas.
Gouldy99 / Flickr
Since most of the North Cascades closes down during harsh winter weather (which happens frequently), this charming Old West town is best enjoyed in the summer sun. From shopping to hiking and enjoying live music at the Old Schoolhouse Brewery, you’ll find plenty to do here.
Nick Bramhall / Flickr
Spokane is Washington’s second largest city, and you’ll find great entertainment here in every season. But there’s something about Riverfront Park on a warm summer day - not to mention outdoor dining, outdoor movies, Farmers Markets and summer festivals- that make Spokane a perfect warm-weather destination.
Christopher / Flickr
Our coastal communities aren’t exactly known for their endless sunshine or warm weather. But if you happen to catch Long Beach on the right summer day, you’ll be treated to both.
memyselfone / TripAdvisor
Just taking the ferry from the Seattle waterfront to Bainbridge Island is a magical experience, especially on a clear day. But once you arrive on the island, you’ll find a brewery, wineries, shops and eateries awaiting you, not to mention natural beauty like the Bloedel Reserve.
Visit Walla Walla Facebook
We’ve previously touted Walla Walla as an amazing autumn destination. But in addition to sipping and swirling your wine on an outdoor patio overlooking the county’s sweeping views, visiting in the summertime means warmer streets to stroll, winery events to enjoy and Farmers Markets with the best fresh local produce.
Enjoy Port Townsend Facebook
The stunning waterfront of Washington’s Victorian village is simply irresistible on a warm summer day. Plus, you’ll find a surprisingly large number of events and activities in this tiny city.
Marius Strom / Flickr
Laid back and secluded, Lopez Island is called “Slo-pez” since time seems to slow down there. But summer is when this little island comes alive. Seasonal eateries open, the farms start selling their best creations, and the (infrequent but appreciated) sunshine makes the waterfront parks look even better.
Carillon Point Facebook
Kirkland Summerfest (held every August) is a wonderful mix of live music, food and entertainment that always draws people to this Seattle suburb. But visiting Kirkland anytime in the summer is delightful, especially if you stay at the Woodmark Hotel and enjoy all the amenities of Carillon Point.
Eliza Adam / Flickr
Lavender season. Need we need more?
Lake Chelan Facebook
While it’s true that Lake Chelan is one of the most popular summer destinations for Washingtonians, summer also happens to be the absolute best time to visit. Try to plan a trip during the week, prepare to share the space with crowds, and enjoy it to the fullest.
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