Why leave the state of Washington when we’ve got so many towns and cities that are perfect for staycations? Out-of-staters come here to escape reality and take in the scenery, but we barely have to leave our own backyards to enjoy everything the Evergreen State has to offer.
Consider one of these 12 destinations for your next weekend getaway. This list of places spans the state, and you’ll find something for every taste.
- Woodinville
Management photo / TripAdvisor Woodinville has so much to offer. You’ll have the beautiful and luxurious Willows Lodge to stay in, dozens of nearby winery tasting rooms and breweries, and you’re only a 20 minute drive from Seattle and all of its amenities.
- Anacortes
Dana / Flickr This peaceful little town is on the most accessible island in the San Juan archipelago. And you don’t have to take the ferry any further to enjoy the rest and relaxation of a seaside getaway. Between the whale watching, hiking trails and decadent dining options, you’ll have plenty to experience.
- Leavenworth
The Wu’s Photo Land / Flickr How could our Bavarian village not be on a list like this? You can visit Leavenworth 50 times and never have the same experience twice. The outdoor activities are numerous, the shops are always tempting, the wine tasting is always wonderful and the “bier” is always ready.
- Walla Walla
Sean O’Neill / Flickr Walla Walla is best known for being in the heart of wine country, but you’ll enjoy a weekend here even if you’re not into vino. Visit the Whitman Mission National Historic Site to get a grisly glimpse into the past, enjoy shopping at one of the numerous boutiques and antique stores, and check out the Blue Mountain Lavender Farm for a u-pick bundle. Before you leave, treat yourself to a pastry from the Colville Street Patisserie.
- Clarkston
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr It might not seem like much, but the small city of Clarkston is a great place to stay. Relax and enjoy the small town vibe of the downtown area, explore the local and state parks, and go on a Hells Canyon boat tour for a different view of the natural beauty.
- Winthrop
Peter Stevens / Flickr Our little Old West town in the Methow Valley is so incredibly charming. Relax at the Sun Mountain Lodge (pictured here), which offers a variety of accommodations on its property that’s perched on a beautiful mountaintop. Horseback riding, mountain biking, boating and fishing will keep you occupied during the day, while the lodge’s hot tub and meals from the Dining Room will keep you comfortable at night.
- Hood Canal
Doug Kerr / Flickr Whether you camp under the stars or opt for peaceful lodging in one of the many small towns that line the canal, spending a weekend on the Hood Canal will completely relax you. This area is perfect for those who want to get away from it all while still enjoying some of the amenities of a city.
- Birch Bay
jamesjustin / Flickr You’ll find Birch Bay nestled between Semiahmoo Bay and Lummi Bay in the northwest corner of Washington. It’s close to Bellingham on the outskirts of Blaine near the Canadian border, but it’s a quiet and peaceful community. If relaxing beach strolls and uncrowded places are part of your ideal getaway, try a Birch Bay weekend.
- Port Townsend
PTMurphus / Flickr Port Townsend just might be the most underrated little city in Western Washington. You can stroll along historic tree-lined streets, shop the quirky boutiques, enjoy beautiful art galleries and dine in some of the best restaurants in the state. Port Townsend is a little piece of paradise.
- Cle Elum
Management photos / Flickr Cle Elum is a quiet place in Central Washington that many people fly by on their way to or from Seattle… but it’s a hidden gem worth devoting a weekend to exploring. For an unparalleled experience, stay at the Suncadia Resort, which offers everything from golf and spa treatments to an onsite winery. If you’d prefer to get back to nature in a different way, pitch a tent at one of the many quiet campgrounds.
- Stevenson
Carol Munro / Flickr Unless you live in Southern Washington or you fish regularly, you may not have heard of Stevenson, which is bordered by the beautiful Columbia River. But this quiet community is a hidden gem with antique shopping, excellent coffee at Robbie’s Coffee House and Bigfoot Coffee Roasters, and amazing food at the Big River Grill. Treat yourself to a stay at the secluded, scenic Skamania Lodge and you’ll have the best weekend ever.
- Ocean Shores
Lee Stone / Flickr This scenic seaside town quiets down after summer, but it’s just as charming in its off season. You just might spot some whales at Damon Point, and the Quinault Beach Casino is perfect if you need a little excitement.
Washington is brimming with beautiful places waiting to be explored. Here are some more ideas for using your weekend wisely.
Management photo / TripAdvisor
Woodinville has so much to offer. You’ll have the beautiful and luxurious Willows Lodge to stay in, dozens of nearby winery tasting rooms and breweries, and you’re only a 20 minute drive from Seattle and all of its amenities.
Dana / Flickr
This peaceful little town is on the most accessible island in the San Juan archipelago. And you don’t have to take the ferry any further to enjoy the rest and relaxation of a seaside getaway. Between the whale watching, hiking trails and decadent dining options, you’ll have plenty to experience.
The Wu’s Photo Land / Flickr
How could our Bavarian village not be on a list like this? You can visit Leavenworth 50 times and never have the same experience twice. The outdoor activities are numerous, the shops are always tempting, the wine tasting is always wonderful and the “bier” is always ready.
Sean O’Neill / Flickr
Walla Walla is best known for being in the heart of wine country, but you’ll enjoy a weekend here even if you’re not into vino. Visit the Whitman Mission National Historic Site to get a grisly glimpse into the past, enjoy shopping at one of the numerous boutiques and antique stores, and check out the Blue Mountain Lavender Farm for a u-pick bundle. Before you leave, treat yourself to a pastry from the Colville Street Patisserie.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr
It might not seem like much, but the small city of Clarkston is a great place to stay. Relax and enjoy the small town vibe of the downtown area, explore the local and state parks, and go on a Hells Canyon boat tour for a different view of the natural beauty.
Peter Stevens / Flickr
Our little Old West town in the Methow Valley is so incredibly charming. Relax at the Sun Mountain Lodge (pictured here), which offers a variety of accommodations on its property that’s perched on a beautiful mountaintop. Horseback riding, mountain biking, boating and fishing will keep you occupied during the day, while the lodge’s hot tub and meals from the Dining Room will keep you comfortable at night.
Doug Kerr / Flickr
Whether you camp under the stars or opt for peaceful lodging in one of the many small towns that line the canal, spending a weekend on the Hood Canal will completely relax you. This area is perfect for those who want to get away from it all while still enjoying some of the amenities of a city.
jamesjustin / Flickr
You’ll find Birch Bay nestled between Semiahmoo Bay and Lummi Bay in the northwest corner of Washington. It’s close to Bellingham on the outskirts of Blaine near the Canadian border, but it’s a quiet and peaceful community. If relaxing beach strolls and uncrowded places are part of your ideal getaway, try a Birch Bay weekend.
PTMurphus / Flickr
Port Townsend just might be the most underrated little city in Western Washington. You can stroll along historic tree-lined streets, shop the quirky boutiques, enjoy beautiful art galleries and dine in some of the best restaurants in the state. Port Townsend is a little piece of paradise.
Management photos / Flickr
Cle Elum is a quiet place in Central Washington that many people fly by on their way to or from Seattle… but it’s a hidden gem worth devoting a weekend to exploring. For an unparalleled experience, stay at the Suncadia Resort, which offers everything from golf and spa treatments to an onsite winery. If you’d prefer to get back to nature in a different way, pitch a tent at one of the many quiet campgrounds.
Carol Munro / Flickr
Unless you live in Southern Washington or you fish regularly, you may not have heard of Stevenson, which is bordered by the beautiful Columbia River. But this quiet community is a hidden gem with antique shopping, excellent coffee at Robbie’s Coffee House and Bigfoot Coffee Roasters, and amazing food at the Big River Grill. Treat yourself to a stay at the secluded, scenic Skamania Lodge and you’ll have the best weekend ever.
Lee Stone / Flickr
This scenic seaside town quiets down after summer, but it’s just as charming in its off season. You just might spot some whales at Damon Point, and the Quinault Beach Casino is perfect if you need a little excitement.
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