32 Best Places to Visit in Washington State (By a Local)
You’re in for a treat if you’re trying to find the best places to visit in Washington State! I’ve lived here for 15 years and have traveled extensively throughout the state.
Washington is an outdoor paradise with prominent mountains, jaw-dropping waterfalls, dense forests, and bucolic islands. It’s got charming small towns and vibrant cities that provide endless things to do.
In this guide, I’ll help you figure out exactly what to put on your Washington State bucket list!
32 Best Places to Visit in Washington State

Olympic National Park
This massive national park’s rainforests, mountains, coastal beaches, and hot springs make it a paradise for adventurers.

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The Olympic National Park is a huge perk of living in Washington. It’s a fascinating combination of rainforests, snow-capped mountains, and gorgeous coastal beaches.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Olympic National Park for its hiking trails and the camping and backpacking opportunities across its varied landscapes. Wander the Hoh Rainforest. Go to Ruby Beach to admire spectacular sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.
Check out Sol Duc Hot Springs to ease your sore muscles after a day of adventuring. Better yet, book a stay at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort to enjoy the hot springs as long as you like.
Seattle
The largest city in Washington has endless things to do – from exploring a buzzing century-old market to wandering the remains of its underground city.

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Seattle is a no-brainer for this list. I’ll admit that I’m biased because I live here, but it’s Washington’s largest, most well-known city for a reason.
Visit the top sights: Pike Place Market, the Seattle Center, and the Space Needle. Explore the bar and restaurant-filled Capitol Hill neighborhood, and wander through historic Pioneer Square. Watch sunsets at Golden Gardens or from one of downtown’s rooftop bars.
Check out the local live music scene, grab a cup of the best coffee you’ll ever have, and enjoy all the city’s museums and art exhibits. That will only scratch the surface of everything Seattle has to offer!
San Juan Islands
These picturesque islands southeast of British Columbia offer incredible whale watching opportunities and dazzling views.

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The San Juan Islands are another popular destination, especially for those looking for a relaxing weekend getaway. The San Juan archipelago has over 150 islands, but the largest and most visited are San Juan, Orcas, and Lopez.
San Juan Island is one of the best places to go whale watching in the state. Search for orcas from land at Lime Kiln State Park or book a tour from Friday Harbor for guaranteed sightings. Orcas Island is a rugged, forested beauty. It’s perfect for people craving the quiet and remote feeling the island provides.
Cyclists will love Lopez Island. Its open fields and rolling hills make biking on Lopez a delight.
Mount Rainier National Park
Chase waterfalls, spot marmots, and wander meadows and ancient forests at this awe-inspiring national park.

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Mount Rainier National Park is arguably the most beautiful place in Washington. This national park consists of ancient forests, alpine lakes, colorful meadows, and the iconic Mount Rainier.
Summer visits are best, but the park is open year-round. Hike hundreds of trails from spring to fall when you can view some of the best waterfalls in the state. Go snowshoeing during winter or book a gondola ride from Crystal Mountain to see Mount Rainier from above.
Ashford and Packwood have lodging options for those who want to extend their stay near The Mountain. Of all the things to do in Washington state, coming to this park is easily one of the best.
👉 Visiting during summer? Reservations are required at Mount Rainier National Park during peak periods from May through September.
Leavenworth
This small mountain town is most well-known for its Bavarian-inspired village and Christmas-time festivities.

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Leavenworth is an adorable, Bavarian-inspired town near the Cascade Mountains. Visit in spring and summer for beer tours, wine tastings, and hiking.
Autumn brings Oktoberfest, a popular festival that’s one of the best things to do in Leavenworth. Biking, rock climbing, and ziplining above the fall foliage are other awesome seasonal activities.
During the holidays, Leavenworth transforms into a picturesque winter wonderland. Enjoy the Christmas Lighting and check out the Nutcracker Museum. I recommend staying at the highly-rated Bavarian Lodge to be right in the midst of the holiday action.
Whidbey Island
The state’s largest island is home to artsy small towns, defunct military bunkers, and one of the best state parks in Washington.

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Guide to Where to Stay on Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island is south of the San Juan Islands at the north end of Puget Sound. It’s high on the list of my favorite Washington islands.
Many outdoor adventures await in this part of the Pacific Northwest. Kayak in the stunning blue waters of Deception Pass State Park. Stroll along uncrowded beaches. Check out old military bunkers and batteries at Fort Casey.
Visit the small towns – Langley, Coupeville, and Oak Harbor. They’re all top Whidbey Island attractions. They’re filled with boutiques, cute cafes, wonderful seafood restaurants, and cozy hotels. Plus, you’ll find some of the most laid-back and kind-hearted locals.
Spokane
Eastern Washington’s largest city has a small-town vibe and boasts a historic park, pretty gardens, and ample recreation opportunities.

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Spokane is Eastern Washington’s largest city. No trip here is complete without a visit to Riverfront Park.
This historic park was designed for the World Fair Expo in 1974. It boasts the largest urban waterfall in the state, Spokane Falls. Other Riverfront Park attractions include the Clocktower, the Numerica SkyRide (a gondola that takes you over the falls), and the famed garbage goat.
Spokane also has plenty of hiking opportunities nearby. Choose from hundreds of trails at Mount Spokane State Park and go to Little Spokane River Natural Area to admire gorgeous vistas.
After hiking, head back to the downtown area to eat and drink at local restaurants and breweries. Music aficionados should add a visit to the Bing Crosby House Museum to their to-do list.
Olympia
The state’s capital city has welcoming locals, family-friendly activities, and plenty of unique local businesses.

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Olympia is Washington’s capital city, perched on the south end of Puget Sound. The Capitol Building is one of the worthy sites and attractions in Olympia. Take a self-guided tour if you’re a fan of beautiful architecture or want to learn a bit about Washington’s state government.
Olympia’s offerings won’t disappoint if you’re on the hunt for delicious brews and meticulously crafted spirits. Well 80 Brewhouse is a must for beer! Its beers are made from the water in the city’s very own artesian well.
Love the outdoors? Stop by the unusual Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve, visit the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, or take a family-friendly camping trip to Millersylvania State Park.
North Cascades National Park
Visit this national park to hike to alpine lakes, backpack through untamed wilderness, and peep golden larches in the fall.

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The North Cascades National Park is wild, rugged, and enchanting. It’s an hour and a half east of Bellingham and has hundreds of hiking trails, breathtaking vistas, and all sorts of wildlife. In fact, it’s officially been approved for grizzly bear restoration efforts.
One of the best things about this particular national park is its remoteness. Expect fewer crowds here as it’s one of the least-visited national parks in the country. But it’s also one of the most glaciated national parks in the contiguous USA.
Be sure to check out the beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Diablo on a visit. Consider bringing a picnic to spend a pleasant day here. You can also try boat-in camping or backpacking to explore the park at your own pace.
Tacoma
An industrial city with cultural highlights, laid-back locals, and gorgeous Mount Rainier views.

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Tacoma is the third-largest city in Washington, so you can expect hundreds of fun things to do here.
You’ll have fantastic views of Mount Rainier from spots like Point Defiance Park or Thea’s Park in downtown Tacoma. The city is a great hub for cultural exploration. Tour some of Washington’s best museums: The Museum of Glass, the LeMay Car Museum, and the Tacoma Art Museum.
The Point Defiance Zoo is also worth a trip for family-friendly fun. Hungry? Walk along Ruston Way to discover delicious restaurants that highlight Pacific Northwest flavors and cuisine.
Port Angeles
This waterfront city is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, with plenty of Indigenous history.

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Port Angeles is north of the Olympic National Park and south of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. While it’s a gateway city to these places, Port Angeles has plenty to offer visitors on its own.
Outdoor enthusiasts can bike along the Olympic Discovery Trail or stroll down the Ediz Hook searching for seals and otters. On hot days, swimming or paddling in beautiful Lake Crescent is a must.
Art aficionados should walk the Port Angeles Mural Trail to take in the city’s art scene and get introduced to some visual history. Continue your art and history tour by visiting a local museum or two to learn more about the area’s Indigenous peoples.
Walla Walla
Wine enthusiasts will love visiting the star of Washington’s wine scene.

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You’ll find Washington’s finest wine in Walla Walla. Walla Walla is famous for its miles of vineyards and its delectable Walla Walla sweet onions. There are over 120 wineries in the area, which means you won’t run out of options for wine tasting!
The historic downtown is charming and packs a real punch of personality despite its small size. There are restaurants, bookstores, and boutiques galore.
Fort Walla Walla Museum is worth a visit to learn about the city. Golfers should visit the Wine Valley golf course, which is consistently named one of the best golf courses in Washington.
Walla Walla is quite far from other cities and places on this list, so you’ll probably want to book an overnight stay there. Get a room at Eritage Resort for a luxe stay in a quiet and scenic resort.
Skagit Valley
This valley is known for its annual Tulip Festival, charming small towns, and expansive farmland.


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Go to Skagit Valley for the annual Tulip Festival in early spring. Stay for the fantastic small towns and other gems in this cute little corner of Washington.
Skagit Valley consists of miles of farmland, wide open fields, and the scenic Skagit River. The valley has incredible bird-watching opportunities. Go on a guided tour from November through March to spot snow geese, bald eagles, and great blue herons.
Don’t neglect Skagit Valley’s little towns. My personal favorite is La Conner. It has a walkable downtown with quirky antique stores, waterfront restaurants, and a Quilt and Fiber Arts Museum. Mount Vernon is another worthy stop with a riverside walking trail, great breweries, and a historic theater.
Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument
This infamous volcano made history with its eruption in 1980.

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Go to Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument to explore Washington’s most infamous active volcano.
There are several visitor centers in the area for people who want a deep dive into the mountain’s fascinating geological history. They help tell the story of the eruption in 1980 that gave Mount St Helens its distinctive crater-shaped top.
Anyone particularly interested in viewing the volcanic wonder can take a scenic tour with Kenmore Air to see it from above. There are plenty of outdoor activities at Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument. Go camping, hike the trails, or explore Ape Caves. The latter was formed from lava flow 2,000 years ago!
👉 Pro Tip: If you want to see Ape Caves, be sure to book your ticket in advance. There is currently a timed entry system to get in.
Bellingham
An effortlessly cool college town with a youthful and open-minded vibe, easy outdoor access, and one-of-a-kind businesses.

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Bellingham is the largest city near the Canadian border. It’s a great place to visit for outdoor activities and pretty views. Chuckanut Drive and Mount Baker Scenic Byway are two of the most notable scenic drives near the Bellingham area.
You’ll want to soak in all the sites and attractions around Bellingham, but the downtown area is also a perfect place to recharge. Grab tasty Peruvian sandwiches from Cafe Rumba, indulge in ice cream from Mallard, and wash it all down with German-style beers from Otherland.
Snoqualmie
Twin Peaks enthusiasts will recognize this small town’s waterfall, luxe lodge, and quirky diner.

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Take a day trip to Snoqualmie if you’re into chasing waterfalls. The magnificent Snoqualmie Falls is one of Washington’s best natural features.
You may recognize the waterfall, which gained fame from being featured in the TV show Twin Peaks. Put Snoqualmie on your itinerary if you’re a fan of the show. Stay at Salish Lodge & Spa for luxe treatment, and grab a sweet slice of cherry pie from Twede’s Cafe. You’ll recognize those spots, too.
Not on the Twin Peaks tour? Don’t worry, there are other reasons to take a trip here.Snoqualmie and the nearby town, North Bend, are home to some of the best hikes near Seattle, like Rattlesnake Ledge and Snow Lake. You can also visit the Northwest Railway Museum to take a 2-hour journey through the Snoqualmie Valley on a historic train.
Port Townsend
A maritime city with treasure-filled antique shops, quirky festivals, and a massive (and possibly haunted) state park.

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Port Townsend is a charming town with historic Victorian architecture and a wealth of maritime culture. It’s one of my favorite towns and day trips from Seattle.
Summertime visits to Port Townsend necessitate time on the water. Go sailing, kayaking, or rowing. Or book a birdwatching cruise with the Port Townsend Marine Science Center.
More interested in beach combing, biking, and history? Visit Fort Worden. It’s one of the most interesting state parks in the area, and you can book a stay in the restored buildings on the former military encampment.
Don’t neglect Port Townsend’s downtown area either! It’s on the waterfront and features antique shopping and local restaurants galore.
Vancouver
Explore the Columbia River Gorge, a historic settlement, and a lively waterfront at the largest city in southwest Washington.

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Vancouver, Washington, is typically confused with Vancouver, BC. But Washington’s Vancouver is on the Columbia River and offers a wealth of fun things to do.
The Columbia River Gorge, Moulton Falls, Beacon Rock, and Dog Mountain are all great excursions for outdoorsy folks around Vancouver. This is also one of those cities in Washington with tons of interesting history. Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is the gateway to this education.
Not far from downtown, the Waterfront is a gathering place where people dine, drink, play, and relax along the Columbia River.
Yakima
Love beer? Seventy-five percent of the country’s hops are grown right in this Central Washington city.

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Yakima is a Central Washington gem that you shouldn’t skip. There are plenty of things to do in Yakima, but it’s a hot spot for two things in particular: agriculture and outdoor recreation.
Like beer? Give the Yakima region a big thank you. Around 75% of the nation’s hops are produced here. Visit Yakima breweries like Bale Breaker Brewing and Valley Brewing Co. to sample some brews close to the source.
Prefer wine? Yakima Valley is full of vineyards with as many wine-tasting rooms to match.
Outdoor-loving travelers can go rafting or tubing in the Yakima River Canyon. Explore local hiking trails and camp at the nearby Yakima Sportsman State Park. Or drive further to camp around Bumping Lake, one of my favorite campgrounds in the state.
Vashon Island
This rural island is the perfect spot for farm-fresh meals and year-round outdoor excursions.


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Vashon Island is a quiet escape from Seattle. It’s easily one of my favorite places in the state. There are plenty of fun things to do in Vashon, but focus on the outdoors. Vashon’s parks are perfect for year-round and even rainy-day excursions.
Go to Point Robinson Park to see the historic lighthouse, catch a glimpse of Mount Rainier, or spot orcas from the beach. You can search for the island’s newest resident here, too: a giant troll named Oscar the Bird King.
Want to keep things mythical? Go to Dragon’s Head Cider for island-made drinks and grab massive pastries at Snapdragon Bakery.
Cape Flattery
The northwest tip of the state promises incredible views over the Pacific Ocean.

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Cape Flattery sits at the northwestern tip of the contiguous United States. It overlooks the Pacific Ocean and Tatoosh Island and is on the Makah Indian Reservation.
Cape Flattery is a great destination if you want to see awe-inspiring views and seals, sea lions, and possibly even whales off the coast. The trail is a relatively easy one. Plan to get there by sunset to take it all in.
For a longer stay, you can camp, go on beach hikes, fish, and visit the Makah Museum.
Lake Chelan
Go on a dreamy retreat near the third-deepest lake in the USA.

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Lake Chelan is downright dreamy. This 50-mile glacier-formed lake is 1,486 feet deep, making it the third deepest lake in the USA.
Lake Chelan is an ideal getaway destination, particularly during the summer. Adventurous explorers can go boating, waterskiing, and sailing. Those who prefer to take it easy can relax on the shore with a good book.
There are over 30 wineries in the valley for those craving a little wine tourism. One real treat for Lake Chelan tourists is taking a trip to Stehekin, a tiny community disconnected from the world. You can’t get there by car. The only way to access this teeny community is by hiking, boating, via horseback, or on a ferry.
Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
Hike hundreds of trails, search for wildlife, and explore rivers, lakes, and mountains in this massive forest.

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The sprawling and scenic Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is one of the most visited forests in the Pacific Northwest, with tons of trails for novice to expert hikers.
The forest’s alpine ecosystems are gorgeous to behold. The lakes are stunning, and there are dazzling rivers among the old-growth forests. Try river rafting at the Skykomish River on a super hot day. Your chances of an elk, bald eagle, or mountain goat sighting are high if you love searching for wildlife.
Visiting in winter? This national forest is also the perfect place to go cross-country or downhill skiing at Crystal Mountain and the Snoqualmie Pass.
Bainbridge Island
Visit free museums, wine tasting rooms, and a gorgeous nature preserve on a charming island near Seattle.

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Bainbridge Island is one of the easiest places to get to if you’re starting in Seattle. The ferry ride from Seattle to Bainbridge Island is scenic and takes only 35 minutes.
The charming town of Winslow offers plenty to keep visitors busy: cafes, free local museums, cute shops, and wine-tasting rooms. It’s just a ten-minute walk to get here from the ferry terminal (making this a wonderful budget-friendly day trip from Seattle).
Bring a car to go further afield. Visit Battle Point Park or the gorgeous gardens at Bloedel Reserve, two of Bainbridge Island’s top attractions.
Sun-Lakes Dry Falls State Park
Camp, hike, and marvel at one of the geological wonders of the state.

Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park in Eastern Washington is one of the little-known geographical wonders of the state.
This place tells the story of the Ice Age. At one time, the falls that flowed here were bigger than Niagara’s. Dry Falls has since run dry. What remains looks a bit like a prehistoric landscape that’s begging for exploration.
The Sun Lake-Dry Falls State Park has a visitor center where those interested can learn more about the geological history of the area. There are also many campsites, a variety of hiking trails, and several lakes for fishing and swimming.
Grand Coulee Dam
This Eastern Washington attraction is one of the coolest engineering wonders in the country.

The Grand Coulee Dam is one of Eastern Washington’s historic gems. It’s worth a stop if you’re doing a road trip through some of the small towns around Eastern WA.
Washington runs on hydroelectric power, and the Grand Coulee Dam generates most of it. The dam was completed in 1942 and is one of the USA’s engineering wonders. Engineers, architects, and anyone who finds it cool that this thing is made of 12 million cubic yards of concrete will love the Grand Coulee Dam.
Visit during the day to learn about the dam’s history and take a public tour. Visit at night to witness an awesome laser show! Sign up for a Run the Dam race to run over the dam and see it from a completely different point of view.
🛎️ Where to Stay Nearby: Both Sun-Lakes Dry Falls State Park and Grand Coulee Dam are fairly remote and far from most major cities. I’d suggest looking in Spokane or Moses Lake if you want ample hotel options. Just know you’ll be about 1-2 hours from either spot if you stay in one of those cities.
Winthrop
This Wild West town in the Cascades is ideal for winter ski trips and summertime hikes, with old-school bars, saloons, and shops downtown.

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Looking for a place where you’ll be transported to the Wild West? Look no further than Winthrop. This small town is located in the Methow Valley about an hour from the North Cascades National Park, and it’s a welcome escape from big city life.
The town hosts exciting events like Rodeos and the 49er Days, a historic Wild West celebration. Winthrop also boasts 120 miles of groomed cross-country skiing trails. Snowshoeing, trail running, rock climbing, and river rafting are ideal pastimes here.
Long Beach Peninsula
Explore teeny beach towns, chow down on seafood, and watch an epic Kite Festival at Washington’s southernmost peninsula.

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Want to slow down, unwind, and escape? Want to eat some of the best seafood you’ve ever had while you do that? A visit to the Long Beach Peninsula may be in order.
On the southwestern edge of the state, this area is perfect for the vacationer who wants to stroll along the beach with ice cream, go fishing, crabbing, or clamming, and watch the sky explode with color during the Washington State International Kite Festival.
The towns of Ilwaco, Long Beach, Ocean Park, and Seaview are all worth exploring. Stay at the Inn at Discovery Coast in Long Beach for a peaceful getaway (the big soaking tub and sauna help with that).
Outdoorsy travelers should also visit Cape Disappointment. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Palouse Falls State Park
Check out the state’s official waterfall backed by a stunning landscape.

Palouse Falls State Park is one of the most fascinating Washington attractions.
Palouse Falls is a 13,000-year-old natural wonder that’s the result of glacial flooding from the last Ice Age. It was declared Washington’s state waterfall in 2014 and is a magnificent sight to behold.
While camping in the area is limited, Palouse Falls State Park has numerous trails and viewpoints for visitors to explore. Photographers and artists will want to come here, particularly at sunset when the lighting makes the falls even more jaw-dropping.
The falls are amazing to behold, but make sure you keep safe! Don’t wander too close to the cliff’s edge, and watch out for rattlesnakes that frequent the area.
🛎️Where to Stay Nearby: Palouse Falls State Park is quite remote and far from nearly every place on this list! I recommend booking a hotel in Walla Walla if you want to be near this attraction. It’s an hour away, but the closest major city to the state park.
Everett
This underrated blue-collar city is perfect for beer and baseball lovers.

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Everett is a quietly cool, blue-collar city in Snohomish County. It’s typically overlooked, but I think that’s a mistake.
Love beer? Start at Everett’s many breweries. At Large is a local favorite with fantastic IPAs. The Independent Beer Bar is low-key and cozy with super personable bartenders and tasty dumplings.
Visit Funko Everett to stock up on figurines from your favorite pop culture media. Sports fans can grab tickets to an Everett AquaSox game, one of the Mariners’ minor league teams.
Still not convinced? I’ll let you in on a secret: Everett is also home to a rustic sandy beach, Jetty Island. Visit in the summer and book tickets to take the five-minute ferry from the port to a tiny slice of paradise that only the locals know about.
Bellevue
Come to this Eastside suburb for luxury shopping, family-friendly parks, and easy access to the Cascades.

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Bellevue is just east of Seattle, and it’s a good gateway to exploring other Eastside cities like Mercer Island, Kirkland, and Redmond.
Bellevue is a family-friendly city with plenty of green spaces to enjoy year-round. Downtown Park is a local favorite for picnics. The Bellevue Botanical Garden is a beautiful refuge for nature lovers.
Shoppers will also find plenty of stores, retail spaces, and luxury brands in the city’s many shopping districts. After all, shopping is one of the best things to do in Bellevue.
Point Roberts
A tiny, sleepy, and remote town that’s only accessible by crossing the Canadian border.

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Point Roberts is on the tip of the Tsawassen Peninsula and can only be accessed by crossing the Canadian Border and briefly setting foot in British Columbia.
There’s admittedly not much to do here, but this sleepy place is perfect for a retreat from everyday life. Sit on the beach, watch for whales, or take a leisurely bike ride while here. Visitors should also wander along Lily Point Marine Reserve.
👉 Pro Tip: Remember to pack your passport and make sure you’re able to cross both borders when visiting Point Roberts. You’ll have to cross the border to Canada two times to go there and back!
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That’s it for the best places to visit in Washington state. Trying to get some inspiration for what to do on your visit? Check out my guide to the best things to do in Washington State next!
Oh, and be sure to sign up for the Travel Lemming newsletter so you don’t miss all the awesome local guides we publish.

Hello, do you have a dog friendly version for itinerary?
Thank you for all this information. I’ve been to a couple of places you mention and your descriptions were spot on: so I can trust your accuracy for the rest! Again many thanks.
Thanks, this is very helpeful.
I really enjoyed this post. I am researching some places to travel out west. We live in Pennsylvania. One of the choices is Olympic National Park. I had no idea there was so much more in the state. We aren’t city people so we enjoy nature and areas of interest. This was so informative for us.
We are heading to Seattle and staying on Anacortes. What are must sees besides whale watching? Is it worth it to drive to Canada? We will stay in Seattle last 3 days of 11 day trip.
Thank you so much! This was so helpful