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8 of the best day trips from Seattle

Dec 11, 2023 • 11 min read

Explore Washington State and beyond with these great day trips from Seattle © Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

With everything Seattle has to offer, it can be hard to imagine wanting to get out of the city for even just an hour or two.

Museums can be saved for rainy days, and it would be a shame to spend sunshine hours in craft breweries when there’s such gorgeous scenery to enjoy beyond the city limits. 

Whether you need a break from the tourist crowds and bustle of downtown , are looking for a serious hike , or have a pup threatening all the zoomies after being dragged to yet another farmers market, there are plenty of opportunities to get out of Seattle for the day.  In fact, some of the most breathtaking scenery, charming towns and picturesque back roads in Washington state lie within an easy drive or ferry ride out of the city. Here are some of our favorite day trips from Seattle.

1. Mt Rainier National Park

Travel time: 2 hours

The drive – about two hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions – makes this a bit of an investment for a day trip, but you can’t be this close to one of the most impressive mountains in the United S tates and not go see it.

The views are spectacular, whether it's a sunny spring day with wildflowers in bloom, a moody, cloudy afternoon, or a snowy winter’s day. 

You could easily spend weeks hiking in the Mt Rainier area (permits permitting), but you can develop a healthy appreciation for the place through any of the several day hikes from Paradise , which is home to the relaxing Paradise Inn and a visitor center. 

Paradise also makes for a fun Seattle day trip during the winter because it's one of the most popular areas in the park for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowboarding. It's also the only area in the park that allows sledding. Bring good shoes, warm clothes and a camera. Try to visit midweek to avoid crowds.

How to get to Mt Rainier National Park from Seattle:  The park has year-round access via the Nisqually Entrance, just under 90 miles and an almost two-hour drive from Seattle along SR-706. If you use GPS, use the address 39000 State Route 706 E, Ashford, WA 98304, or you’ll otherwise be taken to the park headquarters in Ashford.

From the Nisqually Entrance, it’s another 29 miles via Longmire to the Henry M Jackson Visitor Center in Paradise, where you can find parking and several trailheads. Note that in winter, the road between Longmire and Paradise is closed at night.

If your idea of a successful day trip to Mt Rainier involves hiking and biking, the Carbon River Entrance is a little over 60 miles – nearly 1½ hours – along SR-165. No cars are allowed beyond this entrance, only pedestrians and cyclists. 

You can also enter the park on its east side during the summer. It’s just under 82 miles – 1¾ hours – from Seattle to the White River Entrance via SR-167 and SR-410. From there, it’s about 18 miles, or half an hour’s drive, via SR-123 to Ohanapecosh . There are no public transit connections from Seattle to the park.

2. Leavenworth

Travel time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Adorable and unashamedly touristy Leavenworth has oodles of charm all by itself, but the imitation-Bavarian town’s idyllic wilderness setting is what really puts it over the top. Grab a beer and some brats at München Haus , then choose your adventure: the hiking, rafting and rock climbing here are all fantastic. 

Leavenworth is the gateway to the Wenatchee River and the Alpine Lakes Wilderness , where you’ll find some of the best hiking in the state, including several easily accessible day hikes.

How to get to Leavenworth from Seattle:  The 117-mile drive east along US Hwy 2 via Monroe, through the Cascades and over Stevens Pass, is truly spectacular. It takes under 2½ hours, but you’ll want to stop often for photo ops.

The route via the Snoqualmie Pass along the I-90 takes about the same time, even though it stretches over 135 miles. Several bus companies serve the route between Seattle and Leavenworth, or you can take the Amtrak train, although the three to four-hour bus journey makes it less feasible for a day trip.

3. Bainbridge Island

Travel time: 1 hour

Bainbridge Island is a favorite vacation destination for Seattleites and visitors from further afield, but the island is close enough to the city that it contains a healthy full-time population, many of whom commute to Seattle by ferry.

It’s the quickest and easiest way to get out on the water from the big city, and the ride over provides stunning views of both Seattle and the Sound. Lazily stroll around, tour some waterfront taverns like Doc’s Marina Grill , taste wines and maybe rent a bike and cycle around the invitingly flat countryside.

As far as family day trips from Seattle go, it doesn’t get much easier than this; the ferry ride is short enough that kids won’t get bored, and once they’re on the island, they’ll love exploring the Kids Discovery Museum .

Lively pubs and great Washington wines are the order of the day on Bainbridge. The island doesn’t stay up very late, but you won’t go thirsty when it comes to happy hour or leisurely cocktails in the evening.  Bainbridge Vineyards is a quaint and certified organic winemaker about 5 miles from the Bainbridge ferry terminal off Hwy 305 – perfect for a bike ride on a sunny day.

How to get to Bainbridge Island from Seattle:  Washington State Ferries run several times a day from Pier 52 in Seattle. The crossing takes about 35 minutes.

4. Bellingham

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Bellingham is underrated as a fun town for nightlife, especially if you’re into craft beer. Try the Kölsch at Chuckanut Brewery , a Bellingham Blonde ale at Boundary Bay and a Cosmic Dreams IPA at Aslan Depot , a historic bus and streetcar station renovated to look and feel like a cozy old English parlor.

If you like your adult beverages with a side of culture, start with a visit to the Whatcom Museum , a three-building collection of local and regional art, culture and history.

You can also wander the well-preserved Fairhaven neighborhood with its shops, restaurants and lovely bookstore, Village Books . Alternatively, drive 15 miles north to the traditionally Dutch town of Lynden, which has a pioneer history museum , bakery and historic hotel .

To stretch this day trip a little, opt for scenic Chuckanut Drive on the way there or back. This byway hugs the coastline between Bellingham and Mt Vernon, with opportunities to stop for hiking in Larrabee State Park and oyster-eating at the Oyster Bar in Bow along the way.

How to get to Bellingham from Seattle:  Head north on I-5 for about 90 miles (1½ hours) to Bellingham. For the more scenic Chuckanut Drive (SR-11) option, take exit 231 off I-5 just north of Mt Vernon. This route is about the same distance but adds around 15 minutes to the drive – if you don’t stop to admire the scenery.

5. Victoria, Canada

Travel time: 3 hours

At around a 2¾-hour ride on the fast ferry, Victoria stretches the definition of a "day trip," but the British Columbia provincial capital is worth the effort if you remember to bring your valid passport and meet the requirements for entry into Canada . 

With double-decker buses, afternoon tea, homes that look like castles and pubs with names such as the Sticky Wicket and the Penny Farthing , Victoria has long traded on its British affiliations. 

But while the fish and chips remain first class, and summer cricket games still enliven Beacon Hill Park , the days when Victoria was more British than Britain are long gone. In Victoria 2.0, the food culture embraces fusion, the beer leans toward craft brews and the abundance of bicycles resembles  the Netherlands  more than England .

Compared to the glassy skyscrapers of Seattle, Victoria is more laid-back and low-rise. On balmy summer days, a distinct holiday atmosphere takes over as people pile off the ferries to escape the mayhem of the mainland and forget their work. Sure, Victoria might have become trendier and more sophisticated in recent years, but in pace and essence it remains comfortingly old-fashioned.

How to get to Victoria from Seattle:  Victoria Clipper runs a passenger-only, high-speed catamaran from Pier 69 in downtown Seattle to Victoria’s Inner Harbor. There’s one round-trip a day; check the website for departure times as these may vary according to season.

6. Whidbey Island

Travel time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Whidbey Island is an idyllic emerald escape beloved by stressed-out Seattleites. At 41 miles, Whidbey is the longest island on the US West Coast. While it’s not as detached or nonconformist as the San Juans (a bridge connects it to adjacent Fidalgo Island at its northernmost point), life is certainly slower, quieter and more pastoral here. 

Having six state parks is a bonus. There is also a plethora of B&Bs, two historic fishing villages (Langley and Coupeville), famously tasty mussels and a thriving community of artists and artisans. Also on the island is the US Naval Air Station that dominates Oak Harbor. 

Whidbey is a particularly desirable day trip during the fall harvest: grapes, apples and pumpkins abound, as do cider and pumpkin beer. The season also brings wild mushroom foraging tours, which, unless you’re an expert, are best to join if you want to pick some. In the words of Terry Pratchett, “All fungi are edible. Some fungi are only edible once.”

Emerging from Fidalgo Island's flat pastures, the precipitous Deception Pass cliffs are overlooked by a famous bridge made all the more dramatic by the churning, angry water below. The bridge has two steel arches spanning Canoe Pass and Deception Pass, joined by a central support on Pass Island. Built during the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), it was considered an engineering feat in its day. The 5.5-sq-mile park also spans the channel, with facilities on the north and south flanks of the passage.

How to get to Whidbey Island from Seattle: You'll need a car and to take a ferry ride. Take I-5 north and SR-525 from Seattle to Mukilteo; depending on the route and traffic conditions, this trip will be around 40 to 50 minutes. Washington State Ferries run 20-minute trips between Mukilteo and Clinton throughout the day. The Sound Transit train on the Sounder North N-line isn’t a good choice for a day trip since it departs from Seattle twice in the late afternoon and returns from Everett twice in the early morning.

7. La Conner

Travel time: 1 hour 15 minutes

A small town with a surprising number of things to see and do, La Conner is practically made for a day trip. It has a compact, walkable center lined with shops, pubs and restaurants, a spring tulip festival that shows off its pastoral surroundings and a top-notch art museum in the heart of town. 

Its position alongside the lazy Swinomish Channel adds a cool maritime feel. And at around a 1¼-hour drive, it’s one of those short trips from Seattle that you can do without spending most of your day on the road.

Arguably the best time to visit La Conner is in April when the tulip fields around town paint themselves in bands of vivid purples, reds and yellows. Weekend traffic can be discouraging at this time, but the blooms are worth it.

Once you’ve had your fill of flowers, wander downtown toward the tiny marina. Stop in and browse at Handmade La Conner , where artisans in a back-room workshop make all the coffee mugs, textiles, fancy soaps and letterpress cards on offer. Be sure to save time for an exploration of the Museum of Northwest Art , which has an outstanding collection of regional paintings and sculptures and mounts several temporary exhibits each year.

How to get to La Conner from Seattle: From Seattle, take I-5 north about 55 miles to exit 221, then follow signs another 10 miles west along Fir Island Rd to La Conner. There are no bus or train services to La Conner.

8. San Juan Islands

Travel time: 3 to 4 hours

The sleepy San Juans exist in striking contrast with Seattle’s sensory overload, and they’re easier to reach than you might think (though if you can spare the time, an overnight stay is even better than a day trip). 

It may be nearly a four-hour ferry ride from Seattle to Friday Harbor on San Juan Island, but the voyage itself is one of the highlights – you can make the trip as part of a whale-watching tour, but it’s a gorgeous ride even without the whale element. 

On arrival, your entertainment options include mellow bicycling, paddling around in a kayak, eating decadent, locally sourced meals from restaurants like Doe Bay Café , and just hanging out. This day trip is also fantastic to make with your dog; there are several off-leash dog parks, including San Juan Islands Sculpture Park .

How to get to the San Juan Islands from Seattle:  From mid-April to mid-October, the scenic San Juan Clipper goes directly to Friday Harbor from the Seattle waterfront’s Pier 69 in 3¾ hours.

Or you can drive the 85 miles or so to Anacortes – it should take a maximum of two hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions – and hop a Washington State Ferry to Lopez Island (45 minutes), Shaw Island (55 minutes), Orcas Island (a little over an hour) or San Juan Island (an hour). Schedules vary by season, so check the WSF website for the latest. 

Note that for the San Juan Clipper, any pets need to be in a carrier, and you will need to book the trip in advance. For the Washington State Ferry, passengers can bring their leashed dogs into the exterior passenger areas, including the shelter decks.

This article was first published Jul 16, 2019 and updated Dec 11, 2023.

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15 Incredible Day Trips from Seattle

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Table of Contents

Seattle, Washington. A charming city known for its frequent rain, grunge music, and Starbucks coffee. Seattle truly has a lot to offer, from the Pike Place Market to the Space Needle (both of which can be explored on my Seattle walking tour ). But it is also surrounded by the most beautiful scenery; so today, I’m going to talk about the best day trips from Seattle.

Whether you’re dropping by Seattle for a weekend, a week, or have lived in Seattle your entire life, these day trips are worth doing. From majestic mountains to enchanting islands, I hope this list inspires you to explore more of the Pacific Northwest!

Day Trips from Seattle: The Best Cities and Towns from Seattle

Leavenworth.

Washington’s own Bavarian town, Leavenworth, WA is one of the best day trips from Seattle.

Initially a settlement that thrived from logging, it became a ghost town once the railroad re-routed. This was until the 1960s, when the city took inspiration from its surrounding mountains and enchanting creeks, and turned Leavenworth into a Bavarian town.

Leavenworth quickly became a thriving tourist destination , known as the perfect Christmas town in Washington. With its sparkling Christmas lights display and Oktoberfest, it is no surprise that so many travelers visit this delightful town.

But even when it’s not Christmas, there are an abundance of things to do in Leavenworth, WA. From window shopping around downtown Leavenworth, visiting the Nutcracker Museum, walking along Icicle Creek, or embarking on one of the many incredible trails, you definitely won’t be bored!

How to Get to Leavenworth : The best way to get from Seattle to Leavenworth is by car , with the drive taking a bit over 2 hours. However, you can also take a Greyhound , the Amtrak , or you can book a tour .

Next, Fairhaven, WA is a district of Bellingham, and one of the most charming day trips around Seattle.

While it is a pretty small neighborhood, it is filled with picturesque red-brick buildings, cute boutiques, quaint cafés, and a pretty cool bookstore. Not far away is Fairhaven beach. And, it is one of the most dog-friendly places I’ve ever been to!

How to Get to Fairhaven : The drive from Seattle to Fairhaven takes about 1.5 hours. However, you can also take the Greyhound or the Amtrak . Just remember that Fairhaven is a district of Bellingham, so you’ll have to search for a bus or train to Bellingham.

Wondering what else to do in Seattle? If so, check out my self-guided walking tour of Seattle .

Day Trips from Seattle: The Best Parks and Nature Attractions from Seattle

Mount rainier national park.

Now, let’s talk about nature, starting with one of the most iconic mountains and best parks in Washington State: Mount Rainier.

An active volcano, Mount Rainier is, without a doubt, magnificent. I mean, look at the pictures! Filled with glaciers, temperate rainforests, alpine meadows, and colorful wildflowers, the scenery in this park is outstanding.

Which means there are a bunch of things to do in Mount Rainier. With an abundance of mountains, lakes, and trails, you won’t be bored. I definitely recommend checking out some of Mount Rainier’s easy-to-see waterfalls ! And if you’re visiting in the winter, you can go skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

For more information on things to do at Mount Rainier, check out the Visit Rainier website, or Mount Rainier’s National Park website.

How to Get to Mount Rainier : So, how do you make the Mt Rainier day trip from Seattle? The best way to get from Seattle to Mount Rainier is by car , with the drive taking about 2 hours. However, you can also book a tour . Unfortunately, there’s no real way of getting to Mount Rainier by bus or train.

Olympic National Park

Now, let’s talk about Olympic National Park. Packed with stunning scenery, substantial ecological diversity, and some of the best beaches in Washington State, Olympic National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in the US , and visiting should be high on your bucket list.

Indeed, with its towering alpine peaks, lush temperate rainforests, flourishing meadows, and the rugged coastline of the Pacific Ocean, this exceptional park exposes you to the shear beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

For more information on things to do at Olympic National Park, you can check out this Olympic National Park website, or this one .

How to Get to Olympic National Park : The best way to get from Seattle to Olympic National Park is by car , either on land or by ferry . There are also several bus and shuttle companies that take you to Olympic National Park from Seattle. Finally, you can also book a tour .

North Cascades National Park

Next, one of the most incredible day trips from Seattle is the stunning North Cascades National Park.

Venturing deep into the North American Alps, the North Cascades are the homes to some of the best mountains in Washington. With these jagged, alpine peaks containing over 300 glaciers, there are an abundance of incredible sights within North Cascades National Park.

I recommend spending your time doing some of the North Cascades hikes, journeying through the deep forests, passing by cascading waterfalls, and climbing towards these vast glaciers.

How to Get to North Cascades National Park : The best way to get from Seattle to the North Cascades is by car , with the drive taking around 2-3 hours. You can also book a tour . Unfortunately, there are not many options of getting to the North Cascades by bus or train.

Are you a beginner hiker? If you’re looking for some hiking tips and tricks, check out my article on how to start hiking safely!

Diablo Lake

While Diablo Lake is technically within North Cascades National Park, I couldn’t help but add it to this list.

While you are able to admire Diablo Lake off the highway, it is best to do the Diablo Lake hike to get close and personal with it. A hiking trail of moderate difficulty and heavy traffic, the view at the end is breathtaking. I recommend having a picnic by the lake, and soaking in the views.

How to Get to Diablo Lake : Like before, the best way to get from Seattle to Diablo Lake is by car , with the drive taking around 2.5 hours. Unfortunately, there are no real ways of getting to Diablo Lake by bus or train.

Wondering what other incredible USA destinations you should visit? I recommend visiting New Orleans!

Mount St. Helens

Next up, you should definitely visit Mt Saint Helens. Widely known for its eruption of 1980, it is one of Washington’s most iconic peaks.

With a delightful visitor center and a plethora of incredible hiking trails, there are an abundance of things to do at Mount St Helens. Specifically, I recommend embarking on the Harry’s Ridge Trail, the Norway Pass, and the Loowit Trail.

For more information on visiting Mount Saint Helens, I recommend checking out this link . And, if you want to learn more about the epic hikes surrounding Mount Saint Helens, click here .

How to Get to Mount Saint Helens : The best way of getting to Mount Saint Helens is by car , with the drive taking around 3 hours. You can also book a tour .

Snoqualmie Falls

Now, let’s talk about one of the best waterfalls near Seattle: Snoqualmie Falls. 270 feet tall, this Seattle waterfall is a sight to behold. With an easy hiking trail to an upper and lower viewpoint, this is the perfect day trip for a relaxing day out!

How to Get to Snoqualmie Falls : The best way of getting to Snoqualmie Falls is by car , with the drive only taking around 30 minutes. However, you can also take the bus !

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Next, one of the best day trips in Washington State is the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

A vast and diverse forest close to Leavenworth, it is filled with some of the best Washington State hikes , and marvelous camping spots! I would definitely recommend stopping by the tranquil, glacier-fed Lake Wenatchee.

How to Get to Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest : The best way of getting to the Okanogan National Forest is by car , with the drive taking around 2 hours.

Day Trips from Seattle: The Best Islands from Seattle

Vashon island.

If you want to have a serene day trip from Seattle, I recommend visiting Vashon Island. A peaceful island with a charming main town, it is a scenic, rural area with a good sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere.

But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. Things to do in Vashon Island include relaxing at Saltwater State Park, visiting the Point Robinson Lighthouse, and wandering around downtown.

How to Get to Vashon Island : The only way is to get a ferry to Vashon Island. However, you can reach this ferry by car , or by bus . There is also a foot ferry , allowing passengers without a car to easily get to Vashon Island!

Bainbridge Island

Another tranquil day trip, Bainbridge Island has that enchanting small-town charm. With a bunch of things to do on Bainbridge Island, from window shopping the eclectic boutiques, visiting Lytle Beach, and admiring the urban art at Blakely Harbor Park, you won’t regret visiting this charming island.

How to Get to Bainbridge Island : The best way to get to Bainbridge Island is by taking a ferry . You can easily walk onto the ferry, or you can bring your car . It is also possible to drive all the way to Bainbridge Island, but it’ll take a lot longer.

Whidbey Island

Next, Whidbey Island is one of the best places to go in Washington State. Well known for the Deception Pass, there are many other things to do on Whidbey Island: you can picnic on Ala Spit beach, hike the Crocket Lake Loop, or embark on the South Whidbey Loop.

With beaches, campgrounds, and state parks on Whidbey Island, you definitely won’t be bored spending the day.

How to Get to Whidbey Island : The best way of getting from Seattle to Whidbey Island is through taking a car onto the ferry . You can also only go by car , by taking the Deception Pass Bridge.

San Juan Islands

With an island-life vibe, a temperate climate, and a slew of awesome activities, the San Juan Islands are one of the best Seattle day trips.

Things to do in the San Juan Islands include camping, whale watching, and visiting Lime Kiln Point State Park, Jones Island Marine State Park, and Turn Island State Park.

How to Get to the San Juan Islands : The most common way of getting to the San Juan Islands from Seattle is to drive a car onto the ferry . Overall, this typically takes about 2 hours. However, if you are unable to drive, you can also take a small flight .

Day Trips from Seattle: Canada

Vancouver, bc.

That’s right – you don’t have to stay in the US ! Vancouver, Canada is only a 2.5-hour drive from Seattle (not including the border wait). It is also a common weekend getaway from Seattle, if you want to spend more time in this delightful city.

Vancouver’s an exceptional city with an abundance of things to do. From walking along the Seawall to window shopping in Granville Island, you can easily spend a day walking around Vancouver .

However, you’re not limited to Vancouver’s city limits; I recommend embarking on Vancouver’s hikes ! Do the Grouse Grind, climb the Chief, swim in Lynn Canyon, or explore the trails near Whistler .

How to Get to Vancouver, BC : There are numerous ways of getting from Seattle to Vancouver: you can get there by car , plane , train , bus , or with a tour .

Want to learn more about the best Vancouver hikes ? Check out my article on the best hikes near Vancouver, BC !

Or if you’re thinking of going on a road trip through the Canadian Rockies, check out my 7-day Rockies road trip itinerary .

Victoria, BC

If you don’t want to go to Vancouver, why not check out Victoria? The capital of BC, Victoria sits on the southern tip of Vancouver Island.

Victoria is a charming city, with a plethora of things to do. From walking around the Inner Harbour, touring the Parliament Buildings, visiting the Royal British Columbia Museum, and going on a whale watching tour, you can easily spend a whole weekend here.

Furthermore, you don’t have to confine yourself to Victoria! There are a ton of things to do on Vancouver Island, like embarking on one of the many enchanting hikes, relaxing on one of the many beautiful beaches, or touring one of the many Provincial Parks. Or you can even visit the neighboring islands, like Salt Spring Island !

How to Get to Victoria, BC : There are many ways of getting to Victoria from Seattle, such as by plane , ferry , or through a tour .

In Conclusion,

One of the best weekend getaways from Vancouver , Seattle, Washington is surrounded by an abundance of charming towns, breathtaking scenery, and picturesque islands. It’s also surrounded by some of the best national parks in the US; after visiting Washington state, you can definitely cross a few parks off on your national park scratch off maps !

Overall, I hope this list has helped you plan some incredible day trips! And if you’re wondering what to do in the city of Seattle, check out my Seattle walking tour .

Thanks for reading the article! If you have any questions, feel free to comment down below, and if you want to see more travel and hike-related content, make sure to check out my other articles.

Photos by the author, Canva, and Pixabay.

If you love the American outdoors, then check out my other articles! Click here for my ultimate guide to the hikes in Oahu . Or, if you’re more interested in waterfalls, click here for my top 10 favorite waterfall hikes in Oahu !

About to embark on a trip? Here are some helpful articles to make your trip as awesome and stress-free as possible:

• How to Travel Without Breaking the Bank
• 15 Things to Do Before a Trip
• How to Start Hiking: 15 Beginner Hiking Tips

And here are some additional helpful links:

• Click here for my walking guides
• Click here for more posts on North America
• Click here for more resources

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Mia is the founder of Walk a While with Me, a travel blog dedicated to sharing the best self-guided walking tours, travel itineraries, and hikes for destinations around the world. A keen traveler, she has visited more than 20 countries in the past six years. She is excited for you to follow along on her adventures!

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The 22 Best Day Trips From Seattle for Every Style of Adventure

There are so many splendid day trips from Seattle! It was hard to narrow them down, but this guide includes at least one for every type of explorer.

Washington State touts one of the most stunning landscapes on earth! While Seattle is not the capital, it is the largest city. Plus, if you asked most Americans what the capital of Washington is, Seattle is the answer they would give you. Seattle is certainly the culture capital of the state and the best place to make your home base. 

All of Washington is filled with immense natural beauty. Much of the state is surrounded by water or dwarfed by giant mountain peaks. The whale-filled waters of Puget Sound and the Salish Sea draw tourists from all over the country and Canada, and Olympic National Park is probably one of the most underrated parks in America. Washington also has a great frontier history and Native American cultural heritage that has molded its way of life to this day and its arts and crafts scene. 

There are so many interesting and beautiful day trips from Seattle! It was hard to narrow them down, but this guide includes at least one day trip for every type of adventurer. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway with your significant other, an athletic adventure, or a family-friendly outing, we have you covered. Let’s go!

Seattle Area Scavenger Hunts

We know you are here for day trips, but we definitely advise you spend a few days in Seattle, as well! It’s a wonderful city full of unique breweries, grunge history, and workaday ports. Let us take you on an app-guided scavenger hunt of the Pacific Northwest’s greatest city with our scenic and super-fun Seattle Scavenger Hunts ! They are an adventurous and competitive way for you and your crew to explore the Emerald City!

22 Incredibly Fulfilling Day Trips From Seattle

Distances and travel times are according to Google Maps. They may vary slightly based on the time of day you choose to travel and whether you choose to travel on a weekday or weekend.

For the Nature Lover

1. olympic national park .

Distance: 100 miles

Travel Time: 2 hours 57 minutes

Olympic National Park covers over 900,000 acres on the Olympic Peninsula in Northern Washington. It contains the only rainforest in the contiguous United States, incredible glaciated peaks, and miles of Pacific Northwest Coastline. Admittedly, it is a long day trip from Seattle, but it is hands down one of the most beautiful landscapes on earth! Not only is the view from the Visitor Center at Hurricane Ridge among America’s most epic, but the hikes are also ridiculous. 

A drive up to Hurricane ridge meanders through some of the State’s pristine Alpine forests and lands you at the top, where you can view wild deer, marmots, and even the occasional black bear right from your car. Even if you only have time to visit the center, do a short hike, and come back. It’s worth it, as the drive itself is stunning!

This park is massive, and we certainly suggest you make a weekend of it. Visit the HOH Rainforest and its many trails. Hit up the beaches, and take one of the incredible hikes below!

2. Storm King Hike

Distance: 103 miles

Travel Time: 3h

Storm King Mountain is within the Olympic National Forest as well. This hike is absolutely amazing, but only for the adventurous. This little hike is only 5.3 miles RT, but it has over 2,000ft of elevation gain on a brutal series of switchbacks, not to mention the last thirty minutes of the hike requires pull ropes and a little courage. The views, however, are worth every agonizing step. From the peak, you have a panoramic perspective of the Olympic Mountains and Lake Crescent. If you want to spend the night, the nearby town of Port Angeles is beautiful.

3. Klahhane Ridge Trail

Distance: 111 miles

Travel Time: 3h 15 min

The Klahhane Ridge Trail is one of the most accessible long hikes in Olympic National Park. You will traverse Alpine conifer forests, meadows of wildflowers, and rocky crags, leading to the panoramic view from Klahhane Ridge. It is a day hike, but a long one. The hike itself will take at least 5 hours, add that to the drive, and you have a full day, but oh man is it worth it!

The Storm King Trail is on our list of “ The Best Hiking Trails in the U.S. ” Check it out for more epic hikes on American soil.  

For the Beach Bum

4. whidbey island.

Distance: 35 miles

Travel Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

Whidbey Island is a great day trip from Seattle. Take the ferry over for a quick trip and explore the beaches and cliffs to your heart’s content. The beaches of Washington have incredible wildlife. When the tide goes out, the tidepools come alive with barnacles, sea urchins, and sea anemones. Stroll along the wide expanses of beach, and then hit up Whidbey Island Winery for an end-of-the-day glass of vino. Whidbey Island also has some cute cafés and boutiques to peruse. Whidbey Island is one of the most romantic Seattle day trips for you and your partner! Don’t forget to travel to the north corner of the island is seeing the beautiful views from Deception Pass. 

For the Wino

5. woodinville.

Distance: 20 miles

Travel Time: 25 minutes

Okay, so you can take several wine tours in Washington, including on Whidbey Island, but Woodinville is the haven! It’s an easy trip from Seattle, and there are dozens of wineries to choose from. While we love some of the smaller ones, Chateau Ste Michelle is a complete day in itself, with a cafe, gift shop, and several wine tasting options. The grounds are walkable and absolutely beautiful, not to mention the facility is a glorious mock French Chateau! We also love Covington Cellars . Their Josie Rose is well-priced and really tasty!

For the Hiker

Okay, so we already covered a few great hikes within hours of Seattle, but in a state like Washington, that is just scratching the surface!

6. Mount Rainier National Park

Travel Time: 2 hours and 20 minutes

Another one of the best hikes in the United States is the Skyline Trail at Mt. Rainier National Park, just 2 hours southeast of Seattle. This beautiful hike starts at the Jackson Visitor Center (Paradise) and takes you through just that. The trail covers snowfields, alpine wildflower meadows, two waterfalls, and a pretty amazing view of at least five famous mountains from Panorama Point, including Mount St. Helens and Mount Hood in Oregon. It’s a really fun hike too, as you often get the chance to go snowshoeing or slide down the back half, as even in July, it remains covered in snow! 

Make sure to wear waterproof hiking boots, even if you are hiking in summer. The entire park is beautiful, and you should definitely take a quick look at Reflection Lake after your hike! This perfectly still, clear, mountain lake provides a perfect reflection of the mountain, making it appear there are two stacked on top of each other.

7. Mount Saint Helen’s National Park

Distance: 148 miles

Travel Time: 3 hours and 20 minutes

Mount St. Helens, like Mount Rainier, isn’t a mountain at all, but an active volcano. Unlike Rainier, Mount St. Helens is a smoker. Its 1980 eruption was the deadliest recorded in American history. Start your trip with a visit to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument to see its impact. Then head out to explore the caves and wildflowers fields. If you plan ahead and get the permit , you can even hike to the caldera rim. This is a great day trip for geology and science lovers too, as the visitor’s center has a very informative display on the geological history of the area. 

The park is also popular for camping, boating, and kayaking on Coldwater Lake. Horse riding at Eco Park is fun, or take a helicopter tour. Some of these tours are combo aerial trips over Mt St. Helens and Mount Rainier, so you get two for one! 

For all these outdoor activities, check out the Washington Discovery Pass. It gives you access to thousands of acres of state land and recreation areas and can save you big bucks if you plan on exploring several day trips from Seattle this year.

For the Snow Bunnies

8. mount baker ski area, north cascades national park .

Distance: 133 Miles

Travel Time: 3 hours and 15 minutes

The North Cascades National Park spans North Washington and Southern British Columbia. North Cascades is stunning, with plenty of peaks for you to explore, but in the winter months, it turns into a wonderland. Mount Baker Ski Area is very popular in the area for its manicured slopes and ample amount of white, fluffy snow. It is often rated as one of the best snow recreation resorts in Washington. While Mount Baker can certainly be done in one day, consider camping in the park and exploring the incredible ice-blue lakes, and taking a hike on Mount Shuksan. 

For the Nostalgic

9. aberdeen.

Distance: 109 miles

Travel Time: 2hours and 40 minutes

This one is for the 90’s kids. Aberdeen is a workaday town, with nothing special to speak of, except for the fact that it is the birthplace of the legendary, deceased rock star, Kurt Cobain. The little city is home to a memorial park honoring Kurt, displaying some of his own graffiti under the bridge. His childhood home was recently granted historic status, and it is thought that visitors will soon be able to tour it. Aberdeen happens to be considered “The Gateway To The Olympic Peninsula,” as well! For Grunge fans, it’s definitely worth the detour.

For the Photographer

10. diablo lake.

Distance: 125 miles

Travel Time: 3 hours

The truth is you should not step outside, in Washington, without a camera. The natural beauty of the entire state is like something out of a painting. Diablo Lake is on the way to North Cascades National Park and is just a three-hour drive from downtown Seattle. It’s one of the best day trips for photographers. Ice-blue waters nestled between snow-covered peaks on all sides. It is glorious! Canoe the gorge, or hike the Diablo Lake Trail. Take your pup too. Pooches are welcome!

For the Shopper

11. leavenworth.

Leavenworth is a small town that is modeled after a Bavarian Village. It is absolutely adorable, and one of the most popular day trips in the Seattle area. The little town offers German-themed festivals almost every month of the year. However, our favorite time to visit Leavenworth is during the holiday season. You will swear you have been whisked away to a small German town, complete with nutcracker hunts, sledding through town, and their yearly Christmas Lighting Festival. Enjoy a German sausage and beer while you stroll the perfectly curated candy stores and boutiques. There is even a nutcracker museum! All this, and it sits in some of the most beautiful Cascade Mountain landscape imaginable. This area is also very popular for outdoor enthusiasts, due to white water rafting on the Wenatchee River. It’s the perfect weekend getaway!

For the Science Lovers

12. boeing future of flight gallery.

Distance: 25 miles

Travel Time: 56 minutes

The Boeing Factory in Mukilteo is less than an hour from Seattle and makes a great day trip for science and aviation lovers. The Boeing experience is a full day of fun, with interactive exhibits such as a flight simulator and an aviation history gallery. Take in the view from the Sky Deck. The factories off awesome guided tours, as it is a working assembly plant. It’s a lot of walking too, considering the plant is the largest building in the world by volume. The Boeing Factory and Galleries are fun for the whole family.

For the Family

Distance: 40 miles

Travel Time: 40 minutes

If you knew Tacoma’s industrial heritage, it might surprise you that it has turned out to be a mecca for museums. The city lies on Puget Sound, just south of Seattle. The Museum of Glass is incredible. It displays, among other works, the giant and mesmerizing glassworks of Washington artist, Dale Chihuly. After your brain gets its fill of awesome, head over to the Bridge of Glass to the Washington State History Museum and get to know the state a bit better! 

Take the kids to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and meet the resident Polar Bear! Then head for Wild Waves Theme and Water Park for a full day of high-flying coasters and wild, wet rides! Tacoma is loaded with family-fun activities, and is one of the easiest day trips on the list! 

For the Frolickers

14. the lavender farms of sequim.

Distance: 66 miles

Travel Time: 2 hours

Sequim is a beautiful farming area Northwest of Seattle, famous for its lavender farms. The rural area is oozing with small-town allure. Not only is the colorful little town full of art galleries, but the surrounding area is filled with the fresh scent and perfectly manicured rows of lavender. Many of these farms allow guests to frolic freely in the fields, shop at their small farmer’s markets, and just enjoy being in nature. You can spend a whole day or more driving or cycling the famous Lavender Trail . Simply bring your bike. Download the app and the audio tour, and get to peddling. Just imagine it, a faint ocean breeze, the glaciated peaks of the Olympic mountains in the background, and yourself surrounded by lavender as far as you can see. Now that is a perfect day trip!

For the International Adventure

15. victoria, canada.

Distance: 107 miles

Travel Time: 3hours

Victoria, on Vancouver Island, in British Columbia, might just earn the reward of Canada’s prettiest city. The journey time is variable as you will have to take the ferry. If you drive to Port Angeles and take the public ferry, it will take you about 4.5 hours. However, there is a high-speed ferry tour, the Victoria Clipper , that leaves directly from Seattle and will get you there in three! 

The ferry ride itself is part of the journey though. Depending on the time of year, your journey across the Salish Sea will treat you to you may see Harbour Seals and Porpoises, Minke Whales, and Orcas. You will have about 5 hours to explore the city, and there is plenty to explore. Victoria is a very walkable city, so get to stepping! Stop by the stately parliament building, sniff the 900 varieties of flowers at Butchart Gardens . Check out the Royal British Columbia Museum Craigdarroch Castle for some of the most beautiful Victorian buildings in the city. The stunning 1908 hotel, Fairmont Empress , serves an afternoon tea that is a cultural experience. Remember to dress appropriately! 

For the History Buffs

16. fort nisqually living history museum.

Distance: 41 miles

Travel Time: 55 minutes

The Fort Nisqually Living History Museum transports you to the 1800s. Staff will guide you through the life of frontier farmers, complete with period clothing and crafts. Explore the history of the area in a fun and interactive way. You can even get your hands dirty in the Heritage Skills Workshop, learning leatherworks and tinsmithing. How fun is that?!

For the Flower Lovers

17. bloedel reserve.

Distance: 17 miles

The Bloedel Reserve is one of the most beautiful and award-winning botanical gardens in the United States. The preserve covers 150 acres of Bainbridge Island. This place is pure magic. It’s one part curated flower garden, one part rugged outdoors, and all parts beautiful! While you are on the island to see the reserve, you might as well do a little more exploring! Bainbridge lies within Puget Sound, so it’s a super short ferry ride, but you can also take the footbridge. Visit the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum, located in a schoolhouse from the early 1900s. Take a stroll along the seashore at Fort Ward Park. The beach is stunning in itself, but it also happens to have an old military installment and some pretty amazing, short hiking trails.

18. Skagit Valley

Distance: 72 miles

Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

The valley between the North Cascade Mountains and the Salish Sea is paradise on earth. The Skagit River winds its way through a lush valley full of fresh flower fields. We suggest a visit from March to April when the La Conner Daffodil Festival and the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival are in full swing. There is just something special about a colorful field of tulips, especially when they happen to be settled in between some of the world’s most beautiful mountains.

For the Bird Watchers

19. olympic loop.

Distance: 52 miles

Travel Time: 50 minutes (to the starting point)

Washington reportedly has over 300 species of birds, and more than 200 of those can be seen on The Olympic Loop . features more than 200 of Washington’s 346 annually recorded bird species. Begin your journey at the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge and make a loop of the Olympic Peninsula through mossy forests of Olympic national park and four wildlife refuges, not to mention local parks and Native American sites. Keep a sharp lookout for the stars of the show, the Tufted Puffin and the Sooty Grouse.

For the Waterfall Chasers

20. snoqualmie falls.

​Distance: 28 miles

Travel Time: 35 minutes

This time we head east to Snoqualmie Falls. This is the shortest day trip on the list and really easy, but warning…once you get there, you won’t want to leave. The waterfall tumbles 268 feet into the Snoqualmie River. Viewing is also free from the observation deck! The tiny town of Snoqualmie and its neighbor, North Bend, are the primary shooting locations for the series Twin Peaks. Both towns are cute, but North Bend offers a bit more in the way of an excellent bakery and some really good restaurants. The Rattlesnake Ledge Trails are great to get out and stretch your legs, and Snoqualmie’s Northwest Railway Museum is a must for any train enthusiast!

Okay. We know, this is supposed to be a day trip list, but should you decide that you want to wake up to the sight and sound of rushing water, go ahead and book the Salish Lodge . The rooms are fantastic. The spa is glorious, and the food is to die for! Not to mention, it sits right on top of the waterfall.

For the Whale Watchers

21. the san juan islands.

Distance: 110 miles

Once again, you get to take a very scenic ferry ride to arrive at San Juan Island. Cross the mammal-filled waters of Puget Sound and you will arrive in the collection of over 170 islands sprinkled in the Salish Sea. The four main islands are Orcas, Lopez, Shaw, and San Juan. The area is famous for sea kayaking and orca spotting tours! On Orcas Island, take a day hike to the top of Mount Constitution in Moran State Park. Lime Kiln State Park, on San Juan Island, is a popular place to book your whale watching tour. 

Friday Harbor is the main town on the island of San Juan and where your ferry will land. It has great boutiques and artisan shops. In fact, the islands are a haven for local farmers and artists of all kinds. The islands are perfect for a relaxing seaside dinner after a day of watersports and adventure. Not to mention, they boast some of the most beautiful views in the area. For specialty cocktails and incredible food, you must visit Backdoor Kitchen and Catering! It might look a little unappealing at first, as it is located across a vacant parking lot, but once you enter, you will immediately understand why we can’t recommend this place enough!

For the Yacht Clubber

22. port townsend.

Distance: 56 miles

Travel Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes

Port Townsend is a thriving town on Puget Sound famous for its multiple annual regattas. The cute little town is made up of Victorian buildings from the 1800s, which gives it a unique charm. The most famous activity in town is the Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival. The downtown area boasts a few great cafes and some artsy boutiques, and it is just a great place to spend a day. There are also some abandoned military bunkers that are reputed for their paranormal activity, so beware!

Boating is huge here, with events like the Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival happening annually along with several regattas. You’ll want to visit Fort Worden State Park both for its camping opportunities and to explore the abandoned military bunkers that are probably (most definitely) haunted. Finally, don’t skip out on the downtown area which has great options for shopping, two independent theaters, and some funky cafes!

Closing Thoughts

Washington is quite possibly the most beautiful state in America. It’s as least in the top three, and you are lucky enough to live in Seattle or be visiting it soon, then your bucket list of day trips should be a very large one! In fact, it was hard to even narrow down the tops, as there are so many amazing things to see in Washington. Whether you go north, south, east, or west, you will quickly run into something amazing, so get out there and start exploring!

Did you find your next Seattle day trip? Let us know where you are going in the comments!

After all that hiking, you are going to need a relaxing beverage. “ The Best Bars In Seattle ” is our list of the absolute most “divey” of dive bars, the fanciest champagne lounges, and even some hidden speakeasies. 

Don’t forget to wander the city of Seattle itself! Our ultimate guide to “ The Best Things to Do In Seattle ,” covers all the best sites and unique neighborhoods that Seattle has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

There is no shortage of great day trips from Seattle . Do some whale watching in the San Juan Islands, hike the trails around Diablo Lake, or explore the lavender fields of Sequim.

The Emerald City and its surrounding area are full of great activities! Try a scavenger hunt , catch a ferry to Victoria, Canada, hike Olympic National Park, or try one of these day trips from Seattle .

Seattle is a great “home” base when you’re visiting Washington. It has access to ferries on Puget Sound and serves as a starting point for lots of day trips in Washington State .

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20 epic day trips from seattle you need to take in 2024.

The Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Museum of Pop Culture are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Seattle and most likely where someone will tell you to go when looking for something to do. However, while the city is fun, I highly recommend going out of it, as taking a day trip from Seattle lets you see just a small part of what else the state has to offer.

I’ve lived in Seattle for over 25 years, so I’m an expert when it comes to recommending Seattle day trips to go on. My friends are constantly messaging me to ask what they should do on their day off, and I have a hard time picking just one place to tell them about – I love Washington too much!

Many of my weekends consist of finding new destinations in Washington, so I’ve been able to take dozens of different Seattle day trips over the years. Whether I’m hiking in a national park or exploring a new small town, I’ve slowly been able to cross items off my Washington State bucket list .

While it was hard to make a list of only 20 places, these are some of the best Washington state day trips, in my opinion. Whether you’re a local looking for something new to do or visiting the city for a vacation, here are ideas to add to your list of the best day trips from Seattle.

This article was originally written in 2018 and last updated in 2024.

Coming from out of town? You’ll want to rent a car to be able to get around on your own. From Hertz to Alamo , we have a good variety available in Seattle.

Table of Contents

20 Best Day Trips From Seattle

While these are nowhere near all the places to explore in the area, these are some of the best day trips in Washington State. Whether you’re a local seeking a new adventure or a tourist exploring the city, here are some fantastic ideas to consider adding to your list of the best day trips from Seattle based on my experience of having been to all of these places.

1. Mount Rainier National Park

Distance from Seattle: 86 miles

Travel time: 2 hours

Our first stop on this list of day trips from Seattle is Mount Rainier, the highest mountain in Washington State and in the Cascade Range of the Pacific Northwest. If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll see me here at least half a dozen times during the summer exploring new Mount Rainier hikes . I absolutely love getting up early and heading out to the park while the sun is just coming up.

You might also recognize this as the unofficial logo of Seattle, as it’s on everything from Seattle tourist gifts to our license plates and the most popular Washington National Park . There are so many beautiful roadside stops to make that don’t require hiking, and some of my favorites are Christine Falls, Narada Falls, and Reflection Lakes .

People love to take a day trip to Mount Rainier to explore the dozens of different hikes, find waterfalls , and spot wildlife. If you do the Skyline Loop hike, you’ll make it to Panorama Point , one of the best views in the park, where you’ll have an amazing view of the surrounding meadows, forests, and other mountains such as Mount St. Helens (did you know you can climb Mount St. Helens ?) and Mount Adams.

I’ll give you an insider tip – you’ll need to get here early in the morning if you come during the weekend in the summer, as it gets insanely crowded. Luckily, the park just made a new rule for 2024 that reservations are required and based on a time entrance, so this should cut down on some of the traffic.

While you can visit the mountain in one day, you can also turn this into a weekend getaway from Seattle if you want to spend more time hiking. I highly recommend this, as there are tons to explore on the mountain. There are also some amazing Washington fall hikes to go on here, with my favorites being Skyline Trail and Naches Peak Loop .

Afterward, stay at one of these gorgeous cabins near Mount Rainier for the night.

If you don’t want to drive, book a ticket on the Mt. Rainier Railroad for one of the more unique train day trips from Seattle. You’ll get a scenic view of the surrounding area while learning about history.

Prefer to go on a tour instead of driving yourself there? There are multiple tours from Seattle to Mt. Rainier available, including a small-group tour with breakfast and lunch provided or a Mt. Rainier and wine-tasting tour . The best part is that most of these day trips from downtown Seattle will pick you up right at your hotel if you’re visiting.

2. Whidbey Island

Distance from Seattle : 35 miles

Travel time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

If you want to avoid one of those busy urban Seattle day trips, head to Whidbey Island for the day to take one of the more unique day trips from Seattle by ferry. This is only a short drive north of Seattle, and you’ll also find me here during every season exploring this beautiful island.

While it’s great to visit any time of the year, spring in Seattle is my favorite time to come here because it’s not crowded with tourists yet, and the colorful Meerkerk Gardens is in full bloom. I took my kids here for the first time this year and they loved getting their energy out on all the trails and doing the scavenger hunt you can get at the front check-in area.

Another area I love to go to is Coupeville , as they have an adorable waterfront town with tons of history. My favorite places to stop are Toby’s Tavern for fish and chips and a beer, Kapaws Iskreme for ice cream in the summer, and walking on the pier.

Make sure to check out the state parks here – both Fort Ebey and Fort Casey are to the west of Coupeville, where you’ll get to see lighthouses, hike through the forest, and check out old bunkers. I go to one of these forts almost every time I stop on the island.

Whidbey Island is also a great place to go shopping. There are boutiques, cafés, and galleries in the island’s coastal towns, including Oak Harbor, Coupeville, and Langley . Check out some of the best things to do on Whidbey Island when planning your trip. This is one of the best day trips from Seattle, in my opinion, so I recommend spending a day on this island soon.

3. Olympic National Park

Distance from Seattle: 83 miles

Travel time: 2 hours and 25 minutes

Even though it will take about two and a half hours to reach Olympic National Park, it is still one of the most beautiful destinations in Washington State among this list of the best day trips from Seattle. It’s on the Olympic Peninsula in the Pacific Northwest and is home to mountains, beaches, and even a rainforest.

When you spend one day in Olympic National Park , make sure to stop by Hurricane Ridge (an elevated destination for hiking and skiing), Lake Crescent (a mountain lake with trails and sites for camping), and Sol Duc Falls (my favorite waterfall here).

To be honest, there is so much to do at this park that you should really spend at least a few days here, but I know that doesn’t work with everyone’s schedule, so I’m here to tell you that a day trip is possible. I’ve done it a handful of times, and I just recommend leaving Seattle early to give yourself the most time to explore.

Also, keep in mind that if you visit during the winter, the daylight hours are much shorter, so you’ll want to wrap up any outdoor activities by 4 p.m. Check out my guide to an Olympic Peninsula road trip for ideas, which I highly recommend adding to a 4 day Seattle itinerary .

One of my favorite things to do here is all the hikes in Olym p ic National Park , ranging from easy hikes to multi-day backpacking trips.

Want someone else to drive on this long day trip from Seattle? Check out these guided tours:

• Lake Crescent and Sol Duc tour to see the mountains, a lake, and a stunning waterfall
• Hoh Rain Forest and Rialto Beach tour to see a rainforest and one of the best beaches

If you decide to extend your trip, you can spend the night at Olympic Lodge . This lodge is near the park and even has a pool if you want to relax at night.

4. Bainbridge Island

Distance from Seattle: 11 miles

Travel time: 1 hour

Taking a trip to Bainbridge Island is a close and easy day trip from Seattle that you can take, and there are so many things to do on Bainbridge Island . When I first moved to Seattle, my family would take this ferry across the water all the time, just for the day. The ferry ride alone is one of the main reasons people love coming here and one of the best Seattle summer activities to do.

Bainbridge has plenty of hikes near Seattle to explore if you take your car, (many of which are in the forest) so it’s ideal for rainy-day hikes in Seattle . There is also a small town to have lunch at if you want to walk across the ferry instead, and you’ll have multiple shops to visit nearby as well

Bainbridge Island also has the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art , an eco-friendly museum where rotating exhibitions by contemporary local artists can be seen. They also have a handful of wineries, which surprised me the first time I visited. My favorite is Bainbridge Vineyards , which has a covered outdoor area to enjoy even when it’s raining.

Some people just enjoy taking the ferry across and back without even getting off, which I also recommend on a sunny day (it’s one of the best ways to get around Seattle ). You never know what you’ll see on the water, such as seals or whales if you’re lucky (you can also book a Seattle whale-watching tour to guarantee that). Many people enjoy walking on the ferry and then taking it back during a day in Seattle .

Looking for the ultimate Seattle travel guide written by a local that tells you all the best places to go and what to see? My new ebook is now live, so  click here  to buy your copy!

5. North Cascades National Park

Distance from Seattle: 110 miles

Mountains of conifer trees, glacier peaks, and clear blue lakes – you can find all of these at the North Cascades National Park. This is one of the most beautiful US national parks , in my opinion, and one of the best road trips from Seattle .

It’s a great place to visit for those who are only looking for day trips from Seattle, but you can get more from this experience if you stay longer. Spending the weekend in Winthrop is a fun mini-vacation to plan, and you’ll find this Western-themed city at the end of the North Cascades Highway.

There are many places to stop on a North Cascades day trip from Seattle , such as Ladder Creek Falls, Gorge Overlook, and Washington Pass Overlook . I love these because they’re quick stops that give you beautiful views, and no hiking is required.

Make sure to stop at Diablo Lake on the way out – this is one of the most stunning parts of your one-day trip from Seattle because of its natural beauty. Located between Ross Lake and Forge Lake on the Skagit River, it is elevated at an astounding 1,201 feet above sea level. I didn’t think it was really as blue/green as I saw in pictures until the first time I visited, and now I see why this astonishing spot is the most popular place to stop.

In the mood for hiking? There are tons of hikes to do, which I’m slowly checking off my list. Make sure to check out my list of the best day hikes in North Cascades National Park .

Due to its proximity to Canada, it’s a popular weekend getaway from Vancouver . People come from all over to get pictures of this lake and go on hikes nearby.

The absolute best time of year to visit is during the famous larch hike season in Washington , which tends to be at the beginning of October. You’ll find me here the second I hear larches start to show, as they’re stunning ( Heather-Maple Loop is a great hike for larches).

I love using Roadtrippers for all my road trips because they show you all the fun stops to make along the way. You can get $5 off if you sign up with my code BTR5QTP .

6. San Juan Island

Travel time: 3 hours and 15 minutes

San Juan Island is one of the longest day trips from Seattle on this list, but it will be worth the travel. There are so many places to see and activities to do while you’re here.

Many people love coming to one of the most scenic day trips from Seattle by ferry in the summer. (If you’re visiting and spending 3 days in Seattle , I recommend extending your trip to visit the island.)

When you come on the ferry, you’ll be in the town of Friday Harbor . There are many cute boutique shops to visit and restaurants with a view of the water. You can also check out the hikes on San Juan Island to get some exercise during your visit.

Another popular activity is going whale watching at Lime Kiln Point State Park . This is perhaps one of the most popular activities among tourists and locals alike when looking for what to do on San Juan Island . It’s one of the few places where you might actually see whales standing on land.

This area is one of the most scenic places to go kayaking, so check out a San Juan Island kayaking tour if you have time. I love going out here in the calm waters, where you always see sea life of some sort.

Since this is one of the farthest Seattle day trips, you may decide to extend it into an overnight trip. Friday Harbor House is a chic hotel right on the water with a view of the ferry.

7. Snoqualmie Falls

Distance from Seattle: 30 miles

Travel time: 35 minutes

If you only have a few hours and need ideas for easy day trips from Seattle, make sure to visit Snoqualmie Falls. One of the most popular waterfalls near Seattle , this 268-foot waterfall is located on the Snoqualmie River in the east of Seattle. It is a popular destination, with more than 1.5 million people visiting the waterfall every year, and one of the best free things to do in Seattle .

There is also an observation deck and a gift shop in the vicinity, so you can have a great view of the waterfall and buy some souvenirs to take home. You’ll love that this is one of the closest day trips near Seattle, and you can fit in other activities if you want. I personally recommend going to the observation deck at the top and then taking the 0.7-mile hike down to the river, where you’ll have a completely different viewpoint.

One of the most common tours here is the Snoqualmie Falls and wine-tasting tour , where you’ll get to visit two popular destinations in the Seattle area and see some of the best things to do in the PNW .

If you want to treat yourself and extend your stay, book a night at the beautiful Salish Lodge .

8. Leavenworth

Distance from Seattle: 125 miles

Travel time: 2 hours and 20 minutes

Visiting Leavenworth is one of the most popular day trips from Seattle for tourists and locals alike. The entire town center is modeled to look like a Bavarian village, which is reminiscent of an old German town (they even love to celebrate Oktoberfest here). No matter what time of year you come, you’ll love taking this Leavenworth day trip from Seattle.

The village is a popular tourist destination with all the fun things to do in Leavenworth . This is also one of the best day trips from Seattle in winter due to all the Leavenworth Christmas festivities . In fact, it is named A&E’s “Ultimate Holiday Town in the USA.” You can go shopping, eat German sausage, drink beer, and even play mini-golf.

I’ve been here in every season and I don’t know if I could pick my favorite one. Fall is beautiful with the foliage all over the town, and you can participate in the lively Oktoberfest festival. Winter is also stunning, as the town really has a European feel, with snow blanketing the village and holiday lights everywhere.

I always stop here for lunch on the way to eastern Washington, and I recommend Rhein Haus for German food or Blewett Brewing Company for pizza and beer.

Don’t want to drive? No problem – book a tour from Seattle to Leavenworth so you can relax.

Distance from Seattle: 40 miles

Travel time: 40 minutes

For those looking for easy day trips from Seattle or a fun day trip from Portland , head south and take a short trip to Tacoma. It’s a waterfront town that’s known for the Museum of Glass , which exhibits the work of renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly.

There are tons of things to do in Tacoma to fill your day. Some places you can visit in Tacoma include the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Point Defiance Park, and Point Ruston . Based on how many kid-friendly things there are to do, Tacoma is one of the best day trips from Seattle with kids.

During the summer, catching a Tacoma Rainiers baseball game is a great way to spend a sunny day. Tickets and concessions are cheap, and the game is entertaining no matter what age you are during one of the closest day trips around Seattle. I came here several years ago for my first game and loved how casual the stadium was while having a decent selection of food and beer.

10. La Conner

Distance from Seattle: 67 miles

Travel time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Another great day trip near Seattle is the charming town of La Conner . I first came here years ago when I was going to college in Bellingham, and I have made it a goal to revisit every few years. My friend mentioned she hadn’t been before, so I took her up this year to see it again and found even more places to go.

When you first get into town, I recommend stopping at Beaver Tales Coffee for fuel for your day. After that, walk around the area as shops slowly start to open and head to the waterfront to see boats going along the river. Head down to the Rainbow Bridge at the edge of town to take an iconic picture below it and to be closer to the water.

For lunch, I love getting fish and chips at La Conner Waterfront Cafe or heading to La Conner Brewing Company for beer and appetizers. When you’re ready to shop, you’ll love all the lotions and other goods at Handmade La Conner .

11. Woodinville

Distance from Seattle: 20 miles

Travel time: 25 minutes

Popular with locals and tourists alike, Woodinville is an easy day trip from Seattle due to how close it is. You can choose how long to spend here, whether you want to visit for an afternoon or spend all day on this Seattle area day trip.

The most common thing to do in Woodinville is to go wine tasting at dozens of different wineries. In fact, they call it Woodinville Wine Country because of how large the area is. I’ve visited tons of wineries over the years and have never had a bad experience.

The most famous winery is Chateau Ste Michelle , and I recommend going here if it’s your first time in the area. They have a giant gift shop, cafe, multiple wine-tasting stations, and a spacious outdoor area to walk around during your one day trip from Seattle.

Other wineries I like in the area include Armstrong Family Winery, Covington Cellars, and Cave B Estate Winery. If you’d prefer to sample something besides wine on your day trip near Seattle, you also have your choice of breweries, distilleries, and cideries in the area.

For an amazing day out, book this Woodinville wine-tasting and Snoqualmie Falls tour !

12. Mount St. Helens National Park

Distance from Seattle: 185 miles

Mount St. Helens National Park attracts more than half a million visitors every year who want to go volcano-watching. Most people can’t believe they can get so close to a volcano that still has steam coming out of it (one of our many Seattle facts to impress people with).

There are other activities that you can do when you visit one of the most fun day trips from Seattle, such as hiking easy to difficult trails. It’s also a popular Portland weekend trip due to its location further south in the state. However, you should note that access to most of the mountain is largely closed in the winter.

I recommend stopping at Johnston Ridge Observatory to learn more about the mountain’s past and present and have a stunning look into the crater. You can also summit the volcano (with a permit), see wildlife like elk, fish at Coldwater Lake , explore caves, and ride horses at Eco Park . Mount St. Helens National Park is perfect for those seeking adventurous Seattle day trips, and is also a popular Pacific Northwest road trip stop .

13. Bellingham

Distance from Seattle: 90 miles

Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Bellingham is a coastal town near the Canadian border with plenty to do outdoors. I used to live in Bellingham during college, so in my opinion, this is one of the best day trips from there, especially if you want to be in a beautiful setting.

The area is also a very kid-friendly PNW destination if your family is with you. There are plenty of parks to visit and family-friendly breweries to stop at for a meal as well.

Here, you’ll find Mount Baker, Whatcom Falls, Lummi Island, Chuckanut Mountains, and Lake Padden. You should also visit the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention and the Whatcom Museum while you’re in Bellingham.

Make sure to stop by one of the local restaurants downtown for lunch or dinner (I recommend Boundary Bay Brewery ). They have over 20 different small breweries to choose from, which I love about the town. One of my favorites is Otherlands , which serves Eastern European food and beer.

14. Boeing Everett Factory

Located just thirty minutes from the city, the Boeing Everett Factory will fit your day trip around Seattle itinerary well. Those who love all things airplanes will love this (I even enjoyed it, and I’m not the biggest aviation fan).

I’ve brought multiple friends from out of town here and they find it fascinating to go inside the factory and see what it’s like to build a plane. The only caveat is you can’t bring your phone inside the factory (hence my picture from the outdoor viewing area).

This airplane assembly building is the largest building in the world in terms of volume and area. Here, you can see large aircraft (like the Boeing 747, 767, 777, and 787) being assembled. This tour is best saved for when you need ideas for cozy day trips from Seattle in winter .

You’ll need to sign up for your Boeing tour in advance, so buy your tickets online .

Either way, you’ll love this when you need ideas for easy day trips from Seattle. Stop by the nearby town of Mukilteo afterward to get lunch or dinner at Ivar’s Seafood Bar (one of my favorite recommendations on the list of what to eat in Seattle ).

15. Edmonds

Distance from Seattle: 17 miles

Travel time: 30 minutes

Edmonds is often a stopping point for people taking the ferry to Kingston to visit the Olympic Peninsula, but it’s by far one of my favorite cities in the state, so it’s worth spending the day here. Head to North Brackett’s Landing to walk out on a sandy beach, see the ferry going across the water, and grab a latte at Waterfront Coffee .

Once the shops open a little later in the morning, you’ll have plenty of options. Anchor Chic, Crow, and Rogue are my favorites for women’s clothing and accessories. If you have kids, you must stop at Little Bipsy , which has almost a cult-like following at this point with their adorable kids’ clothing (my boys get a matching sweatsuit from them each year).

It’s impossible to tell you all my favorite places to eat or drink, but a few are:

• MARKET for the best seafood and lobster rolls around
• Demetris for shareable appetizers and waterfront views
• Vie & Vin for a huge selection of wine (both tastings and bottles for purchase are available)

Distance from Seattle: 142 miles

Travel time: 2 hours and 10 minutes

Yakima is one of the best Seattle day trips that locals go on when they want warm weather for a day. Located on the other side of the Cascade Mountains, the weather tends to be sunny and hot consistently during the summer.

There are dozens of wineries here if you want to taste some of the best wine in the state (check out Treveri Cellars ). They also have a good number of breweries in Washington for sampling beer, and more breweries continue to open up each year.

You won’t want to miss some of the more unique food here, such as tamales that often sell out. Be sure to stop at the Sunday Farmer’s Market as well to stock up before you head back home.

There are also numerous hikes to go on that you’ll want to check out, such as Cowiche Canyon and Tieton Nature Trail (my personal favorites).

17. Victoria, BC

Distance from Seattle: n/a (ferry ride)

Travel time: 2 hours and 45 minutes

Did you know you can easily visit Canada in a day, and the best part is you don’t have to drive there?  Victoria Clipper  lets you take a day trip from Seattle to Victoria in less than three hours, and you’ll arrive in Canada just before 11 am.

That means you’ll have almost five hours to explore the very walkable city of Victoria during one of the best day trips from Seattle.

While it makes for a long day, this is one of the most entertaining day trips from Seattle with kids. They’ll love looking for whales and other sea life during the ferry ride, and there are plenty of activities to do in Victoria with kids once you get there.

I’ve been to this city about a dozen times at this point, and the places I always recommend are the  Royal BC Museum, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Butchart Gardens . For a meal before your trip back, stop at  The Flying Otter Grill.

Book your Victoria Clipper ticket in advance to get the day you want, as it’s a popular activity!

18. Chuckanut Drive

Distance from Seattle: 75 miles

Travel time: 1 hour and 11 minutes

One of the most scenic drives and best Seattle day trips is Chuckanut Drive up by Bellingham. I went to college at the nearby Western Washington University, and I can’t tell you how many weekends I came here to be in awe of the beautiful sights.

There are many pullouts where you can safely get off the road and take pictures of the San Juan Islands and Canada. If you’re a hiker, you’ll love doing some of the trails up here, such as Oyster Dome .

Hiking in the summer is the best time to come here, which is why it makes one of the best day trips from Seattle in the summer.

A few restaurants are located on the drive, but they’re not always open. I recommend driving down to La Conner after your drive to check out this cute town on the water. There are so many fun things to do in La Conner that you won’t want to miss.

You can stop by the family-friendly La Conner Pub & Eatery for lunch or dinner to fill up after your exploration. After that, head down to Pioneer Park and take a walk across the Rainbow Bridge.

19. Gig Harbor

Distance from Seattle: 38 miles

Travel time: 45 minutes

One of the most romantic day trips in Washington State is Gig Harbor , which is only a short drive south of the city. You’ll love walking around this small Washington town , exploring boutique shops, and talking to locals, and it’s one of the best short day trips from Seattle.

One of my favorite things to do is grab a coffee to go and walk around the water. You’ll see small boats, yachts, kayaks, and more out on the water. You can also rent a kayak for an hour or two if you want to get some exercise.

I recommend taking a boat tour so you can see everything the area has to offer while learning about the history of Gig Harbor. There are several companies to choose from, and I suggest booking a morning tour while the water is calm.

Book your Gig Harbor boat tour online.

20. Snoqualmie Pass

Distance from Seattle: 54 miles

I love going to Snoqualmie Pass for a day trip from Seattle because there’s something to do no matter what season you go in. Many people associate it only with the winter when you can visit The Summit at Snoqualmie Pass , which has four different areas with tons of runs that cater to beginners up to advanced skiers who want to go in the backcountry. You’ll find me here every season, slowly trying to improve my skiing skills.

However, there’s a ton to do when the snow melts as well. One of my favorite hikes is Snow Lake , which you can access from the Alpental parking lot. Gold Creek Pond is also another good one if you’re looking for a shorter, kid-friendly hike.

What to Bring on a Seattle Day Trip

Here are a few items I recommend bringing on a day trip in Washington for drives near Seattle .

• Raincoat – It doesn’t rain as much in Seattle as people think, but there is the occasional summer storm. Bringing a lightweight raincoat is smart and easy enough to put in your backpack. Amazon | Backcountry.com
• Sunglasses – Contrary to what you may think, it can get very sunny during the summer months, so keep your eyes protected when you’re outside with these glasses. Amazon | Ray-Ban
• Water bottle – Water stations to fill up your water bottle are everywhere in Seattle, so stay hydrated with a refillable water bottle. Amazon | Backcountry
• Backpack – Most of these day trips are pretty active, so it’s helpful to have a small backpack to store your items in while you explore. Ama zon | Zappos
• Comfortable flats – This is one of the most underestimated items to pack, but you’ll be sorry if you walk around all day with sore feet. I swear by Rothy’s because they’re cute, comfortable, and machine-washable. The red o nes are my favorite, as they give a pop of color to your outfit.

Where to Stay After a Day Trip From Seattle

If you’re spending the day out, you’ll want a comfortable hotel to relax in when you get back. Here are a few Seattle hotel recommendations:.

• Inn at the Market – If you want to be right in the center of the action at Pike Place Market, you’ll want to stay here. You’ll have a beautiful view of Puget Sound and be able to head down to the Market in the morning to buy fresh fruit and croissants (rates start at $220 per night on Hotels.com or Booking.com ) .
• Mayflower Park Hotel – Built in the early 1920s, this hotel has a European feel to it while still providing modern amenities. They have a fitness center if you want to get in an early morning workout and a restaurant and bar so you don’t have to go out if you’re tired from your day trip (rates start at $149 per night on Hotels.com or Booking.com ).
• Mediterranean Inn – If you want to stay outside the busy part of this city, you’ll enjoy being at this hotel in the Queen Anne neighborhood. You’ll still be around plenty of stores, coffee shops, and restaurants for when you want to go out (rates start at $89 per night on Hotels.com or Booking.com ).

For a very Pacific Northwest feel, check out some of the best Washington Airbnb cabins you can rent. Here are a few other options in the Seattle area:

• Quiet Condo in Seattle Center – This modern Belltown condo has free parking, a pool and is within walking distance of many Seattle attractions (rates start at $155 per night)
• Beautiful Queen Anne Guesthouse – This two-bedroom guesthouse offers stunning views of Elliot Bay and has a deck to enjoy. (rates start at $215 per night)

Hopefully, you’re feeling inspired to get out of the city and take one of these amazing day trips from Seattle after reading this list! I know I enjoy exploring the state, and I know you will too.

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a Seattle local who's obsessed with exploring all things Pacific Northwest, especially hiking, road trips, and national parks. She's been to hundreds of places all over the region and started this website to help others discover the beauty of the area and create their own trips.

20 thoughts on “ 20 Epic Day Trips from Seattle You Need to Take in 2024 ”

What an informative post! We are spending 5 nights in Seattle after we visit Olympic and I have so much great stuff for us to do now. Thanks for the great site!

I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Have a great trip to Seattle.

Wonderful. I visit my daughter once a year and now have so many great day trips Thank you !

You are welcome! I hope you have fun together.

Wonderful information. Still not sure if we will get to Alaska in May with RoyalC, our second year of trying. So Much to do in Seattle if we are allowed to comej. Must see our cousins on Victoria what ever happens.

I hope you get a chance soon!

We are flying to Seattle in March for 8 days. The original plan was to spend 3-4 days in Vancouver. However with Covid travel restrictions we are rethinking that idea. Any ideas where else we can travel (by car) that’s up to 8 hrs away for a few days outside of Seattle? Don’t know the area. Coming from fl.

Hi Tammy, I actually have a whole post on ideas for a few days out of Seattle: https://postcardstoseattle.com/weekend-trips-from-seattle/

Some of my personal favorites include San Juan Island, Gig Harbor, and Long Beach.

Hi Marissa, I just wanted to drop you a line saying how much I appreciate all your blog posts! I have been busy planning our family roadtrip to Washington, Oregon and California and your tips have absolutely saved me! Thanks to your insights I have been able to decide on where to go and what to see there. I wish you all the best! Pavlina

Hi Pavlina, I love getting comments like this! I started this website years ago to inspire others to explore this beautiful area and to make it easier with my guides, so I’m glad you’ve been using them!

Thanks Marissa. Very nice selection of places to visit. Happy 2023!

Thanks Bobby; I’m glad you liked them!

Hi Marissa, Thanks for this very interesting blog. I might be coming to Seattle in mid January for a business trip to Boeing Everett factory. I’m coming from France so I’m looking at extending my stay in the Seattle area for some more days. I’m expecting the weather to be rainy and cold… so I don’t know what to do and where to go in such weather conditions. Do you have some suggestion for me?

Hi Vincent, yes, I have a whole article dedicated to what to do during the winter! Enjoy your trip. https://postcardstoseattle.com/seattle-winter/

Hi, You mentioned in passing that you went to Western Washington University. I’d love to hear more about your experience at that school. My daughter will be a senior this year and is interested.

Of course, feel free to message me at postcardstoseattle [@] gmail.com.

Thank you so much for the wonderful details! We had great trip covering Bellingham – Whatcom falls, Lunch at Bellingham downtown, SPARK Electrical Museum to catch the 230pm Weekend show, Larabee state park via Chuckanut drive, back to Seattle. One could stopover at the Seattle Premium outlet mall on the way to round it out 🙂

I’m so glad to hear that! As a WWU alumni, I love Bellingham.

Thank you for all of the great information. We’re planning a family Christmas trip and your blog posts are SO helpful!

You’re very welcome! Have a great trip.

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15 Best Day Trips from Seattle Washington

• In the City / Outdoors / Seattle / USA / Washington

Looking for a quick getaway? These are the best day trips from Seattle Washington.

Seattle has so many day trip opportunities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The city is the perfect home base to explore the surrounding area, whether you’re visiting for a cruise or just for fun. You can spend a weekend in Seattle , making your way through the ultimate Seattle bucket list , or visit nearby national parks, picturesque islands, and more.

Buckle up as we share some of the best day trip destinations from Seattle to help you discover more of Washington State!

A special thanks to the State of Washington and Port of Seattle for sponsoring this post. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: November 29, 2023

− − Content Menu

• 15 Best Day Trips from Seattle
• More Day Trip Ideas Under 3 Hours
• Maps of Seattle Day Trips

Best Places to Stay in Seattle

Essential tips, planning checklist, 1. bainbridge island – best day trip from seattle by ferry.

395 Winslow Way E, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110, map

Distance: 10.1 mi / 50 min ( map ) – Including Ferry Ride Things You Can’t Miss: Bloedel Reserve, Pia the Peacekeeper Troll, Founders Courts Where to Eat: Blackbird Bakery , Ba Sa , Bainbridge Apothecary & Tea Shop

Just a short ferry ride from Seattle, Bainbridge Island welcomes visitors with its charming small-town atmosphere and scenic beauty. Winslow is the island’s main town, where you can explore art galleries and walk through Bloedel Reserve gardens, named one of the top ten botanical gardens in the US.

Pickleball lovers are also in for a treat since this is where it was invented! Jacob had the best time playing with locals at Founder’s Court. He even played with someone who was there at its inception.

Everything we did on our bainbridge island day trip

• Breakfast at Blackbird Bakery
• Pickleball at Founders Courts
• Hike through Grand Forest
• Lunch at Ba Sa
• Tea at Bainbridge Apothecary
• Visited Pia the Peacekeeper Troll by artist Thomas Dambo
• Strolled through Bloedel Reserve
• Paid our respects to Chief Sealth (whom Seattle was named after)
• Shopped in Bremerton on the Kitsap Peninsula

Local Tip: If ferry times don’t work out and you’re going out to the Kitsap Peninsula, you can always drive back. Depending on timing, it may be faster, but there are tolls.

2. Whidbey Island

11196 WA-525, Clinton, WA 98236, map

Distance: 32.4 mi / 1 hr 22 min ( map ) – Includes Ferry Ride Things You Can’t Miss: Deception Pass, Ebey’s Landing, Coupeville W here to Eat: Seabolt’s Smokehouse , Ott & Hunter , Oystercatcher

Whidbey Island, the largest island in Puget Sound, has rugged coastlines, historic sites, and picturesque villages. Visit the famous Deception Pass State Park or Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve, where pastoral landscapes meet the sea, or check out some lesser-known trails like Ala Spit, Earth Sanctuary, or Windjammer Park. You can also explore the charming town of Coupeville with its iconic wharf.

Everything We Did on Our Whidbey Island Day Trip

• Deception Pass State Park – North Beach has the best view of the bridge.
• Ala Spit County Park Trail – lesser known trail to avoid crowds at Deception Pass and Ebey’s Landing.
• The Farm Stand – sunflowers, pumpkin patches, ice cream, and more
• Oak Harbor Murals by Allgire Project
• Windjammer Park – hikes near the Oak Harbor waterfront
• Lunch at Seabolts Restaurant – we got fish and chips and clam chowder
• Coupeville Pier and town – look out for the hundreds of starfish under the pier.
• Ebey’s Landing Bluff Trail – if you have a national park passport , stop at the visitor center for a stamp.
• Fort Casey State Park – the best view of the forts over the water was from the lighthouse.
• Meerkerk Gardens – look for the puzzle monkey tree.
• Earth Sanctuary – combines ecology with art (pay online ahead of time).
• Ott & Hunter Wine Tasting in Langley – you can sit by the window for a nice view of the water.
• Explore downtown Langley

Local Tip: To avoid driving back and forth, start at the top of Whidbey Island (Deception Pass) and work your way down to Clinton Ferry Terminal.

3. Vashon Island

17627 94th Ave SW, Vashon, WA 98070, map

Distance: 16.5 mi / 1 hr 8 min ( map ) – Includes Ferry Rides Things You Can’t Miss: Oscar the Bird King Troll, Point Robinson Lighthouse, Fern Cove W here to Eat: Vashon Island Coffee Roasterie , May Kitchen & Bar , Cafe Vino Olio

Vashon Island is known for its organic farms and artistic community and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. You can experience the island’s creative spirit in local galleries, savor farm-to-table cuisine, and take leisurely walks along the pristine beaches. You will also spot roadside farm stands with produce, popsicles, shrub sodas, and lassis. We found many of them were self-service and took Venmo.

Everything We Did On Our Vashon Island Day Trip

• Point Robinson Lighthouse
• Oscar the Bird King Troll (our favorite of Thomas Dambo’s Northwest trolls) 
• Flora Hill Popsicle Stand (they have shrub sodas too!)
• Coffee at Burton Coffee Stand
• Dockton Park and Forest
• Pastries and coffee at the Vashon Island Coffee Roasterie – the birthplace of Seattle’s Best Coffee.
• Vashon Center for the Arts
• Mango Lassi at Venison Valley Farm & Creamery
• Rented e-bikes with Vashon Adventures – a great way to get around the island!
• Hiked Shinglemill Trail
• Relaxed at Fern Cove
• Picked up fruits at Country Store and Farm

Local Tip: Two ferries go to Vashon. We took the ferry from West Seattle (Fauntleroy) to visit the troll in Lincoln Park before or after.

4. Rattlesnake Lake / Ledge + Snoqualmie Falls

6351 Railroad Ave, Snoqualmie, WA 98065, map

Distance: 29.9 mi / 38 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss: Rattlesnake Lake, Snoqualmie Falls, Snoqualmie Pass W here to Eat: The Commonwealth , Pie for the People NW , Il Paesano Ristorante Italiano

The North Bend area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with many hiking trails, panoramic views, serene lakeside picnics, and the awe-inspiring Snoqualmie Falls. If you like to hike, you can go up the popular Rattlesnake Ledge or enjoy a leisure day on the lake.

Local Tip: Bring an inflatable SUP to Rattlesnake Lake for a relaxing afternoon. We did that for Jacob’s birthday last year!

5. Mount Rainier National Park – Best National Park day trip from seattle

Paradise Rd E, Ashford, WA 98304, map

Distance: 107 mi / 2 hr 20 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss: Panorama Point, Myrtle Falls, Grove of Patriarchs W here to Eat: Snorting Elk , Paradise Village Restaurant , Copper Creek Inn

Mount Rainier National Park offers visitors a chance to witness the wonders of an active volcano. Don’t miss the iconic Paradise area, offering some of the park’s most stunning vistas. If you visit during spring, the wildflower meadows are full of color, but be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.

Also, help keep these places pristine by visiting mid-week or during the shoulder seasons.

Local Tip: Pick up a National Park Pass to save money if you visit multiple parks in a year.

See More: Your Complete List of All National Parks in the US

6. Olympic National Park →

3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362, map

Distance: 102 mi / 2 hr 55 min ( map ) – Includes Ferry Ride (but you can also drive around) Things You Can’t Miss: Hall of Mosses, Hoh Rainforest, Sol Duc Falls W here to Eat: Next Door Gastropub ,  BBG Blakeslees Bar & Grill ,  8th Street Ale House

Did you know we had rainforests in the US? They are temperate rainforests, and you will find them in Olympic National Park. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a biodiversity haven. The park showcases nature’s grandeur, from lush rainforests and alpine peaks to rugged coastline. Hike the Hoh Rainforest trails, spot wildlife in Hurricane Ridge, and unwind at the peaceful Lake Crescent.

This is another spot that is best to visit mid-week or during the shoulder seasons. It helps keep the parks in pristine condition but also allows you the enjoy them when they are less crowded.

See More: 4 Things to Do in Olympic National Park Washington

7. Leavenworth

940 US Hwy 2 STE B, Leavenworth, WA 98826, map

Distance: 135 mi / 2 hr 15 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss: The Enchantments ( requires permits through a lottery system ), Icicle Gorge, Waterfront Park W here to Eat: Munchen Haus , Larch , Icicle Brewing

Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth is a charming Bavarian-themed village that draws tons of visitors with its European-inspired architecture and festive atmosphere. Explore the village’s unique shops, indulge in German cuisine, and participate in outdoor activities like river rafting, hiking, and our favorite, bouldering. This was my third time visiting, but we love it so much that we’re trying to make it out here once a year.

Local Tip: It’s extra magical during October with fall foliage and family-friendly Oktoberfest activities and during Christmas.

8. North Cascades National Park →

7280 Ranger Station Rd, Marblemount, WA 98267, map

Distance: 102 mi / 2 hrs ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss: North Cascades Highway, Diablo Lake, Ross Lake W here to Eat: Cascade Burgers ,  Arrowleaf Bistro ,  Upriver Grill & Taproom

North Cascades National Park is a hidden gem if you’re seeking remote wilderness and unparalleled beauty. With its jagged peaks, cascading waterfalls, and pristine lakes, the park is a paradise for backpackers and nature photographers. You may think the vibrant, turquoise waters of Diablo Lake are photoshopped, but it is that blue.

See More: 7 Best Things to Do in North Cascades National Park

9. Friday Harbor

165 First St S, Friday Harbor, WA 98250, map

Distance: 103 mi / 3 hrs ( map ) – Ferry Ride Required Things You Can’t Miss: Lime Kiln Point State Park, Pelindaba Lavender Farm, The Whale Museum W here to Eat: Downriggers , Duck Soup , Mike’s Cafe & Wine Bar

Friday Harbor is a picturesque coastal town in San Juan Island known for whale watching tours , art galleries, and a charming harbor. Explore the island’s rich marine life, stroll along the historic streets, and visit the Whale Museum to learn about the majestic creatures that inhabit the surrounding waters.

See More: 15 Best Places to Whale Watch in the US + When to Go

101 N Fair Ave, Yakima, WA 98901, map

Distance: 143 mi / 2 hr 9 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss: Yakima Area Arboretum & Botanical Garden, Cowiche Canyon Trail, Wineries/Breweries W here to Eat: Bubbles & Co , Crafted , Geet Indian Cuisine

Yakima, located in the heart of Washington’s Wine Country , is also the hops capital of the world. They produce 75% of hops for brewers in the US. If you love wine or beer, Yakima is one of the best day trips from Seattle for you. Take a wine or brewery tour, indulge in farm-to-table dining, and learn about the region’s agricultural heritage at the Yakima Valley Museum.

Local Tip: Say hi to our friends at Bubble & Co for bubble tea, craft Asian & PNW beer, craft sakes, and many rare Asian snacks. They have so many Japanese kit kats !

11. Skagit Valley

Main St &, State Rte 20, Marblemount, WA 98267, map

Distance: 116 mi / 2 hr 10 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss: Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, Roozengaarde Display Garden, Little Mountain Park W here to Eat: Train Wreck Bar , The Fairhaven , Skagit Valley Burgers Express

Skagit Valley (pronounced Ska-jit with a long “a” as in apple, as a friend corrected me) is famous for its tulip fields and the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Although locals try to avoid the crowds during this season, as a photographer, seeing them in full bloom is a visual feast. The valley also boasts a thriving art and craft beer scene that can be enjoyed year-round.

See More: Ultimate PNW Bucket List

12. Columbia River Gorge →

45.6992035,-121.7101839,  map

Distance: 180 mi / 2 hr 40 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss: Beacon Rock Hike, Coyote Wall, Dog Mountain W here to Eat: Big River Grill , Walking Man Brewing , The Cabin Drive-Thru

The Columbia River carved this natural wonder we call the Gorge. We love the many stunning hikes to scenic vistas and waterfalls. One of our favorites is Dog Mountain , when the balsamroot is blooming (permits are not required for the spring). You can even windsurf in the river’s gusty winds.

See More: 21 Best Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge Oregon

13. Anacortes / Fidalgo Island

819 Commercial Ave STE A, Anacortes, WA 98221, map

Distance: 80.7 mi / 1 hr 15 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss: W.T. Preston & Maritime Center, Cap Sante, Washington Park W here to Eat: Adrift , A’Town Bistro , Dad’s Diner

Anacortes is the gateway to the San Juan Islands and is a charming coastal town with scenic viewpoints, hiking trails, and marine activities. Washington Park gives you panoramic views of Puget Sound, and you can also island hop around nearby islands that are just a ferry ride away.

14. Port Townsend

2409 Jefferson St, Port Townsend, WA 98368 , map

Distance: 57.1 mi / 2 hr 10 min ( map ) – Requires a Ferry Ride Things You Can’t Miss: Fort Worden State Park, Port Townsend Marine Science Center, The Starrett House Inn W here to Eat: Fountain Cafe , Finistere , Owl Spirit Cafe

Step back in time in Port Townsend, a Victorian seaport town brimming with historic charm. Stroll through well-preserved Victorian buildings, visit art galleries, and enjoy the town’s maritime heritage. Fort Worden State Park offers beautiful beaches and hiking trails. The city also has public murals and galleries perfect for art lovers.

15. Orcas Island

65 N Beach Rd, Eastsound, WA 98245, map

Distance: 108 mi / 3 hrs ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss: Moran State Park, Obstruction Pass State Park, Mount Consitution W here to Eat: New Leaf Cafe , The Lower Tavern , Mijitas

Orcas Island is the largest of the San Juan Islands and has diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and pristine beaches. Explore Moran State Park, where hiking trails lead to the island’s highest peak, Mount Constitution, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands and waterways.

Map of the Best Day Trips from Seattle

We stayed at the Kimpton Palladian Hotel in downtown Seattle, which was the perfect home base. I loved that we were only a few blocks from Pike Place and could walk to lots of restaurants and bars. Because we were staying here, we also conveniently saw that Atsuko had a show at the Moore next door and was able to catch her show!

For more hotel options, check the map below.

• Tolls are common in Seattle. If you rent a car, most car rental companies will charge you for the toll after.
• Look up the ferry schedule if you plan any day trips via ferry. Depending on the season, you may need to pad extra time. During the summer (the busy season), some tolls can have up to 3-hour waits. We traveled in October, so we never had a wait.
• Be prepared for rain when you’re in the PNW. We always carry a light raincoat in the car and wear waterproof shoes just in case.
• Check the current hours of restaurants and shops when visiting small towns during the off-season. They tend to be more limited or closed on certain days.
• Download AllTrails+ to access trail maps offline if you’re hiking and often get lost like me.
• Bring a daypack to carry essentials on your adventures while keeping your hands free.

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on  Seattle hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour  for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a  Seattle travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Save money on attractions with a  CityPass .

More Resources

• Seattle Travel Guide
• Fodor’s Seattle’s 25 Best
• Pacific Northwest’s Best Trips

Have you done any of these day trips from Seattle? Which one are you going to do next?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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22 of the best day trips from Seattle

Seattle is a city truly blessed in natural attractions. Downtown overlooks the Puget Sound, with views that run the gamut of the best of nature – beautiful trees, lakes, islands, and snow capped mountain ranges. There is so much to explore within the city itself, but I believe the true wealth of this city, is in the landscapes and small communities you can easily escape to on a day trip from Seattle. Seattle, at the heart of Washington State, has something for everyone. This carefully curated list of the 22 best day trips from Seattle will take you on abundant adventures, have you basking in epic scenery, and exploring charming towns. Did I mention boutique shopping, and delicious dining?!

The accessibility of these incredible day trips is what really makes them. Within an hour or twos drive (or ferry ride), you can leave the city behind, and escape to complete wilderness, nature truly at its best. I spent two summers in Seattle, simply exploring. So you get to benefit from all of my adventures – here’s the best of the best. This is a great list for tourists and locals alike. Locals – get out and enjoy what’s in your backyard. It’s simply incredible!

All of the distances mentioned below are calculated from downtown Seattle. While most of these are road trips, there are a few that also via ferry, for part or all of the journey.

If you’re coming from out of town, renting a car will offer you the most flexibility to explore. If you’re only in town for a short time, or are not comfortable driving, then are some tour options below also.

Snoqualmie Falls

Distance from Seattle: 47 mi

If you’re short on time, or not up to a real hiking adventure, Snoqualmie Falls is the perfect day trip to get you out the city quickly, and immersed in the stunning Seattle bush, with little effort. Snoqualmie Falls is less than an hours drive from downtown Seattle, and the upper viewing deck is a short walk from the carpark. If you want to extend yourself, you can do a short hike down to the base of the falls. I highly recommend it – it’s a great and very pretty walk, and viewing the falls from below gives you a completely different perspective.

If you’ve got time, there’s so MUCH MORE to do around the Falls, to extend your trip into a real day trip.

Here’s how to make Snoqualmie Falls your best day trip plan. And if you’d like to make that a Falls & winery day trip, how about have someone else drive you?

Deception Pass & Whidbey Island

Distance from Seattle: 83 mi

Deception Pass is the destination, but Whidbey Island is the route!

Deception Pass State Park is a hugely popular destination for PNW tourists and locals alike, and I think the experience of visiting the park is improved by driving there via Whidbey Island. Whidbey Island sits in the Puget Sound, and is home to an eclectic mix of people. Touring the island It really feels as if you’ve stepped back in time. Choose where you want to stop and explore, then continue on to the beautiful park that is Deception Pass.

For all the details on how to get there, and the best things to see and do, read this article : A Day Trip Guide to Deception Pass Park .

Leavenworth

Distance from Seattle: 118 miles

Before moving to Seattle, I met a ‘local’ in New Zealand and asked her what her top list of things to do in Seattle were. Leavenworth was number 1.

If overseas travel is not possible or comfortable for you right now, a trip to Leavenworth could be just your ticket. It’s an alpine village, modeled on Bavaria.

Wander the Bavarian architecture, then take a break and eat and drink your way through German foods, to complete the Bavarian experience. It’s all quite surreal.

Depending on when you visit, you can also be immersed into a Bavarian cultural experience or festival. In my opinion, there is none better than Christkindlmarkt. Winter and Christmas is a simply magical time to visit Leavenworth. (But even if you can’t make it then, there’s still an incredible Christmas shop, that will bring on all the feels the instant you enter it (Kris Kringl).)

But wait – there’s more. As beautiful as Leavenworth is, it’s the journey getting there that is as much as a destination. It’s simply stunning.

If you can’t drive yourself there, then consider this tour .

Distance from Seattle: 21 mi (plus a ferry ride)

Poulsbo is another super quaint harbour town, that narrowly missed being part of my Top 5 Small Towns in Washington round-up.

In the 1880’s, a community of Norwegians settled in Poulsbo, because Liberty Bay, with views of the snow capped Olympic Mountains to the west reminded them of home and the fjords of Norway. That’s how beautiful Poulsbo is!

Proud of its Norwegian heritage, there’s a definite Norwegian theme evident as you wander the bespoke shops, galleries and eateries. One of the most famous in town is Sluys Bakery, where you’ll be able to purchase the infamous Poulsbo Bread (inspired by a Bible passage), alongside traditional Norwegian specialties such as Cardamom Bread, Pepparkakor and Fattigmand. PS. They have good donuts too! If food is your thing, you’ll not want to miss Boehms Chocolates!

After you’ve wandered the shops, and eaten to your hearts content, how about visiting the Maritime Museum, to learn more about how the sea has played an integral part in this areas history.

Victoria, BC

Distance from Seattle: Three hour ferry or 45 minute float plane

Isn’t it incredible to think that you can easily escape into Canada, for just a day trip? And not just Canada, but probably one of Canada’s prettiest cities, that’s actually very English like.

And best of all, getting there is an incredibly beautiful part of your experience. You can travel by ferry or float plane, or make it the best of both worlds, and use the ferry one way, and the float plane the other.

Victoria is a very walkable city, with some key attractions. For all the details on how to make your best day trip plan check out Seattle to Victoria B.C. | your guide to the ultimate weekend getaway .

Mt Rainier National Park

Distance from Seattle: 86 mi

Mt Rainier is an absolute Seattle icon, and whether or not you can view ‘her’ today is a constant source of Seattle’ites’ conversation!

She sits proudly in Mount Rainier National Park, the tallest peak in the Pacific Northwest, at more than 14,000 feet. Mt Rainier National Park is a 369 square mile reserve, that is simply chokka full of incredible trails, vistas, meadows, waterfalls and glaciers. It is truly awe inspiring country, and I loved every second of each and every one of the hikes we did in the park.

For an easy day trip, I’d highly recommend the Naches Peak trail, as one that delivers incredible scenery, but is doable and accessible for most. There are a great range of other easy hikes that can be done from Paradise , which is also home to the Park’s main Visitor Centre.

North Cascades National Park

Distance from Seattle: 110 mi

If natural beauty is your thing, then a day trip to the North Cascades National Park has to be at the top of your list. The North Cascades Range are a rugged mountain range that traverse the border of British Columbia (Canada) and Washington State. There is much to see and do in this area, but a perfect day trip option would be to visit the breathtaking blue waters of both Ross and Diablo Lakes. There are perfect small day hikes around these areas, or simply head to one of the lookout areas with a picnic, and spend time just absorbing all you see in front of you.

If you have time to make a weekend of it, drive a little further to Winthrop

These are all ‘summer’ activities off Highway 20, which is closed in the depths of winter.

Olympic National Park

Distance from Seattle: 100 mi incl. ferry (to Hurricane Ridge)

Doing the Olympic National Park as a day trip from Seattle is really not doing it justice, but when you don’t have a huge amount of time, sometimes that’s just how it is.

It’s going to be a long day, but if you make the most of Seattle’s ferries, you’ll be able to shorten the driving.

Olympic National Park is probably most famous for its rainforests and beautiful beaches, but as a kiwi, I’ve grown up in these landscapes, and that wasn’t what appealed to me. I had seen a friend’s photos from Hurricane Ridge, and that was what top of my list.

It didn’t disappoint! After a short but steep 1.7 mi hike to the Ridge, we were rewarded with spectacular 360 degree views that literally spanned from the US to Canada! In one direction we were looking over the Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands, and up to Vancouver Island. Behind us was layers and layers of the Olympic Mountains.

If you have time, there are some other short hikes you can do around here, and/or head to Port Townsend to explore the area a little more.

If you’re not self-driving, consider this day tour to Olympic National Park .

Skagit Valley & La Connor

Distance from Seattle: 68 mi

Mention Skagit Valley to a Seattle local, and it’s probably tulips that come first to mind. In April each year, millions of tulips burst into bloom, and mark the beginning of the The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival.

Not as famous as the tulips, but still simply stunning and worth a day trip, are the daffodil fields, which bloom in March. Both festivals are driving tours, so you really get to see the best of all of this beautiful countryside.

In season, there’s also the opportunity for u-pick apples, strawberries, raspberries or blueberries from local farms.

When you’ve had enough of driving, head into La Connor to experience another one of Washington’s most charming towns. And if you’re not tripping up this way when these flowers are blooming, it’s still a place worth visiting. For the crafty girls, there’s the Pacific Northwest Quilt and Fiber Arts Museum. For those who love the sea, you can wander the fishing village, or head out for an adventure on the water. And of course, there’s plenty of delicious places to eat and drink in La Connor.

San Juan Island

Distance from Seattle: Drive to Anacortes 81 mi, then ferry.

A day trip is a great way to get a little taste of the San Juan Islands. Three of the 172 islands are serviced by ferries, with San Juan Island being the largest. The ferry ride is truly an experience that is part of the journey, and you’ll often see whales en route.

You’ll arrive into Friday Harbor, a busy harbor town where you could quite easily find a spot on the waterfront and just people watch. If you want to be a little more adventurous, head out on a whale watching tour, or pick a couple of options on the Scenic Byway and explore by car, moped or bus. Trust me, whatever you choose, you’ll have a fabulous day escaping the reality of big city life.

Bainbridge Island

Distance from Seattle: 35 minute ferry ride

A short ferry ride from downtown Seattle, and you’re transported to the upmarket rustic charm of island life. This is a small island with a big heart, encapsulated in a place of gorgeous natural beauty.

From the ferry, you can walk to the main township of Winslow – and easily spend the day here enjoying the boutique shops, the new Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, or the tasting facilities from three of the wineries on the island.

If you want to be a little more adventurous, you have options to get out on the water, hire a bike, or jump on the Bi-Ride (the islands local bus – just $2). If you don’t have a car, jump on the bus, and make the Blodel Reserve a priority. It’s in the most incredible setting, and is just beautiful.

Read more ideas here for your Bainbridge Island day trip.

Mt St. Helens

Distance from Seattle: 98 miles

Are you thinking, I know that name?? You probably do! In 1980 Mount St. Helens erupted – it was the deadliest and most devastating volcanic event in US history. 57 seven people lost their lives, and much of the surrounding area was severely impacted in one way or another. Even the elevation of Mt St Helens reduced dramatically, as an earthquake triggered a debris avalanche.

Although it’s thought further eruptions are probable, Mt St Helens is still a popular hiking destination. Personally, I think visiting the Visitor Centre is a much wiser option. Although it’s 30 miles away from the mountain, it offers a fabulous view of the Western slope of the mountain. There’s a fascinating video to watch in the theatre, and a ton of displays to educate you on the area before, during and after the eruption. It all makes sobering watching, but is an important part of America’s history.

Note: at the time of writing the visitor centre is closed – if you’re intending to visit please check.

If you want to get closer to the mountain, the Johnstone Ridge Observatory is another option.

Here’s a day tour option if you’d like to join a group tour.

Distance from Seattle: 90 mi

Bellingham is a university city (Western Washington) that is just 21 miles south of the Canadian border (Vancouver). It’s the gateway to both the Mt Baker ski area (east), and Chuckanut Drive (south). So it’s a city that is often just driven through en route to your actual destination.

BUT – it is actually a fabulous destination in its own right. We made a day trip to Bellingham to explore Whatcom Falls Park. It is an absolutely stunning park (241 acre), that offers easy trails and fabulous views – all with little effort. What’s not to love right!

There are lots of other options for getting outdoors, and when you’ve spent enough time exploring the great outdoors, you can head into town to make the most of the cities emerging craft beer industry. Couple this with a great music scene, and you’ve got the makings of a great day and evening.

If you happen to be in town on the 1st or 3rd Saturday of the month, it’d be remiss of me not to let you know to head to the Dockside Market, where you can literally pick up the catch of the day from local fisherman. Nom nom, nothing beats fish that fresh!

Distance from Seattle: 11 mi

The beautiful city of Bellevue sits east of Lake Washington, and makes for an easy day trip from Seattle. There’s lots of ways you can spend a day in Bellevue. The Bellevue Art Museum is the city’s biggest attraction – it hosts a huge range of events, big and small, to engage everyone in the family.

The Bellevue Botanical Gardens are a beautiful way to spend an hour, or for something a little different, wander the wooden boardwalks at the Mercer Slough Nature Park – a 320 acre wetland. Or head for a swim at the Newcastle Beach Park.

Although these are all great reasons to visit Bellevue, it is Bellevue Square that brings me back on a fairly consistent basis (eek!). It is one of my favorite places to shop in Seattle. With over 200 stores, and a range of eateries, it’s a great place to go if you just want it all in one spot. And if you’ve had enough of being inside, you can extend your shopping to the downtown shopping district. If like me, you love dessert, I highly recommend FogRose Atelier – either for afternoon (make sure you book), or stop in for cocktails and dessert!

Distance from Seattle: 44 mi

Gig Harbor is one of the quaintest little seaside towns you could wish to visit, and just narrowly missed entry into my Top 5 Most Charming Small Towns in Washington .

Driving to Gig Harbor you’ll have to head over the Tacoma Narrows Bridge – which has a very interesting history! (look it up!)

If you love boutique shops, and bespoke eateries, you’ll love the little township of Gig Harbor. It’s a beautiful place to wander. It’s even better if you love the water – you can rent a kayak and head out and enjoy it, or simply grab a take out coffee and go and watch others enjoying it.

If you have a taste for something stronger, try the Espresso Martini at HDC instead of your regular coffee!! Visit Heritage Distilling Co (HDC) – their waterfront spot contains a distillery, tasting room and retail space. They have great ‘flight’ options for their liqueurs, and a delicious cocktail menu (just saying!).

Woodinville

Distance from Seattle: 21 miles

Who knew that Seattle had its own wine growing region right?! I’m not sure why it’s not widely known, as Woodinville is home to over 130 wineries! Personally, I’m not a huge wine drinker, but I still get a lot of joy out of visiting wineries. The countryside and climate that suits grape growing is usually pretty gorgeous, and the wineries themselves are often housed in architectural or unique buildings. Woodinville fits this typecast well!

Find a sober driver, then head to Woodinville to start exploring. You may choose wineries based on the types of wines they specialise in, or just from how they look. One of the oldest and largest in the area is Chateau Ste. Michele – alongside their winery business, they run a range of different ‘experiences’, and host large events.

If you’ve had enough wine, head to Woodinville Whisky Co for a change of taste. Then finish off your day with an ice cream from the new Swanky Scoop.

Everett incl. Boeing Factory

Distance from Seattle: 30 mi

Everett is world renowned as the home of the Boeing Factory. Or perhaps that’s Seattle. But one of the Boeing Factories does just happen to be in Everett.

Whether or not you’re into planes, touring the factory is definitely a unique Seattle experience. This assembly facility (Boeing has two in Seattle, and several around the States), is the largest building by volume in the WORLD! The scale of things is difficult to grasp until you are actually in there and see it. And learning how they build a jumbo jet is truly fascinating. This is a day trip for locals and international tourists alike.

But if you’re making the effort to head to Everett, and have time before or after your tour, there’s more to see in Everett than just Boeing.

You could check out Everett’s secret beach – Jetty Island . The Port of Everett is another great option to wander – you’ll be surprised at how much there is to see as you wander the largest public marina on the West Coast.

Apparently, the Funko Headquarters Retail Store in Everett is another international attraction, but that’s probably for a younger generation than I fit!

Chuckanut Drive

Distance from Seattle: 75 mi

Chuckanut Drive is infamous in Seattle, yet I talked to so many locals who hadn’t actually driven it!

It’s a 21 mile route that travels from just south of Bellingham to Burlington. It’s Washington’s original scenic byway.

In places the road is narrow and twisty, but the views are fantastic, and there are plenty of places to pull off the road, so you can really take in all you’re seeing.

There are a couple of key stops on the drive – the first being Larrabee State Park. The park is on the seaward side of Chuckanut Mountain, and offers postcard views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands. If you want to make a weekend of it, you can camp here – there’s great boating, fishing, or quiet little beaches to enjoy.

The other stop is The Oyster Bar, a seafood restaurant that lucked in for location! This is your place for a truly special meal with incredible views. For a night to remember, book yourself in for a sunset dinner.

Depending on which way you drive, if you have time, the wee town of Fairhaven (near Bellingham) is another great place to explore. It’s known for its Victorian-era red-brick architecture – which adds so much character to your shopping experience.

You could head back on the I-5 to drive home, but personally, I recommend doubling back – you’ll see different things on the route going the other way. It’s too beautiful to not!

Distance from Seattle: 185 mi

Winthrop is another one of those little towns, where the journey to get there is so much a part of the actual experience. The most scenice route is via Highway 20, beyond Diablo and Ross Lakes. It’s not a trip you can make in winter as that part of the Highway will be closed, so make sure you plan this ahead in season.

And I will confess that this is probably more of an overnighter than a day trip – it’s doable as a day trip, but far too beautiful a journey to let it blur by.

Arriving into Winthrop you’ll wonder if you’ve stepped back in time. To the 1850’s! This is a wild west town, so grab your boots and your Stetson before you head out the door!

This tiny little town with a population of just 500 punches well above its weight. Start your day with coffee at the Rocking Horse Bakery. Wander around the local shops, then head down by the river for the best views. Later in the day, plan for a meal at the Old Schoolhouse Brewery, and then head through the swinging saloon bars at Three Fingered Jack’s Saloon, rumuored to be the oldest legal saloon in WA.

There’s so much to do in town, I haven’t even started on the incredible outdoor activities there are around the area. Winthrop sits in the Okanogan National Forest – get out there and enjoy it!

Port Gamble

Distance from Seattle: 28 mi including ferry ride

Port Gamble is a historic old lumber town, that sits on the shores of the Kitsap Peninsula. It’s a fabulous place for a day trip, if you like exploring quaint and pretty environments. In fact, it was Port Gamble that started my love of dahlias. In front of the information centre is the most beautiful dahlia garden, filled with a myriad of varieties. I was in awe checking out the perfection in each flower.

This is not the only place you’ll see Dahlias in town, you’ll also be able to purchase them at the Dahlia cart. As you wander the town, I’m sure you’ll love the beautiful old wooden homes, the antique shops and the interesting treasure you might just find in the old fashioned general store. We loved eating at Butcher & Baker – a beautiful farmhouse restaurant, butchery and bakery. Make sure you check it out!

Of course, there are lots of options to get out on the water if you so desire. For something a little different, it’s a quick detour to drive over the Hood Canal Bridge. The Hood Canal Bridge is over a mile long, and is in fact the third longest floating bridge in the world. In the centre it has a retractable pontoon, that opens to a 600 ft clearance for marine traffic. Drive across the bridge and you’re on the Olympic Peninsula. If you do decide to do this, just make sure you’re not in a hurry, because if the bridge does ‘open’ for boats, it can be closed to cars for up to 45 minutes.

Distance from Seattle: 33 miles

Tacoma is a large port city that sits south of Seattle. It’s had an interesting history, but today is revitalised and is a great place to head to for a day trip. Downtown is home to a lively theatre district, alongside a couple of great Museums (Museum of Glass & The Washington State History Musuem ). For car enthusiasts, you’ll love the America’s Car Museum. It really is a city you can expand your mind in.

If you need some fresh air after all that history, head to Point Defiance Park There’s so much to do here. Head off on a trail, visit the beautiful gardens, or go to the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium. And if you’re not museum’d out, there’s also the Fort Nisqually Living History Museum.

Whew – it’s going to be a big day in Tacoma!

Snohomish City

Renowned for its collection of antique shops, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Snohomish is an easy and fabulous day trip from Seattle.

The Downtown Historic District is a charming place to wander – which is why it was included in my Top 5 Most Charming Small Towns in Washington. Alongside the antique shops, are bespoke boutiques, craft shops and plenty of great options for food and drinks. The town plays hosts to many different festivals throughout the year – so check out their calendar of events.

It’s also the beginning of the Centennial Trail – a 30 mile long paved multi-use trail that goes north to Skagit County. We made a great day of it riding the trail, eating fresh blackberries all along the way, reveling in the different landscapes and areas we passed.

Distance from Seattle: 18 mi

Edmonds is possibly best known as the ferry gateway to Kingston and the Kitsap Peninsula. It serves this route well, but is a really pretty city in its own right, and definitely worth a day trip from Seattle.

One of the biggest days in the Edmonds’ calendar is the Edmonds Art Festival, held over three days over Father’s Day weekend in June. It’s huge (over 75,000 visitors), and I can attest that it’s a great event. I’ve also attended the Taste of Edmonds Food Festival in August – if you love food, it’s another fab day out.

The downtown Edmonds area is another cute town to wander, with some gorgeous shops and buildings. Continue wandering to the waterfront area, where you’ll likely see scuba divers entering the water heading to the Edmonds Underwater Park. (If you’re a diver, you may want to join them!) The Underwater Park is a marine conservation area and bird sanctuary, established in 1970. Apparently it’s pretty beautiful under there!

So – now all you have to do is start working your way through this list! What kind of activity and or landscape do you like best? Will you be heading to the most charming towns like Winthrop and Snohomish, heading to Tacoma for a culture fix, or to Mt Rainier for its incredible mountain landscape and hikes? Wherever you go, I’d love you to pop back here and let us know how you enjoyed it.

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16 Comments

One of my best friends from college is actually from Snoqualmie. I would love to visit one day, as it looks incredibly beautiful.

Leavenworth is my favorite, and is so charming. It reminds me of Switzerland but in Washington. They had some of the most beautiful flowers there too. Your article reminded me of good times. Thanks for sharing!

You have a really good selection of day trips from Seattle. When I was there, I mostly stayed in the city and saw the sights. I would have liked to go to Mt Rainier and hiked some trails.

The city is beautiful, and there’s lots to see and do, but getting out of it is super special.

Very nice article! my favorite day trip would definitely be Victoria, BC but others look great too! thanks for sharing

love lists like this- I had no idea that Vancouver was so close~!

All of these are so beautiful it would be hard to choose! Can I just do all of them?!

Yep – you should!

Victoria BC is my favorite day trip especially to Butchart Gardens! But, Leavenworth is a fabulous second! You have some great other locations I haven’t been to yet like Snohomish City. I look forward to trying out some of your suggestions.

Aren’t the Butchart Gardens amazing! I hope you do try some of these other day trips, I’d love to hear what you think.

So many things to do in this part of the world. I just need the time to get to do them!

This is such a great list of day trips from Seattle! I had no idea there was so much to do nearby, I’d love to visit Leavenworth and Olympic National Park of course!

There’s so much of the Pacific Northwest that is so rich in beauty! It’s amazing to know how many of these beautiful places you can visit within a day’s trip from Seattle. I hope to check a bunch off your list from Vancouver!

Let me know as you start ticking them off, it always makes me super excited to hear people out there enjoying all of this.

Great Post ! I have read your other posts which are really informative for any traveler. Thanks for sharing such a beautiful informative information on the blog.

Thank you, I appreciate your comments, and am happy you’ve found my info valuable.

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19 Must-Do Day Trips from Seattle, Washington 

20 comments

Seattle, Washington, is one of the best places to visit in the Pacific Northwest — this vibrant city is filled with great food, vibrant culture, and gorgeous scenery. 

However, one of the best things about visiting Seattle isn’t just the city itself but its proximity to incredibly unique and diverse destinations! 

While you are in Seattle, you are likely planning a few day trips from Seattle to explore all that the area has to offer. So, whether you are looking for national parks, quaint islands, or big cities, you will find it all (and more!) on this list of the best day trips from Seattle. 

Best Day Trips from Seattle  

1. leavenworth, washington  .

Leavenworth, Washington, is a charming Bavarian-style village in the Cascade Mountains. It takes just over two hours to get to Leavenworth from Seattle, making it one of the best day trips from Seattle. However, once you arrive, you will wish you had stayed longer! 

Though Leavenworth is beautiful to visit at all times of the year, you should definitely plan to visit during Oktoberfest — Leavenworth in the fall in magical! The entire town is covered in fall leaves, while music, dancing, and ceremonial tapping of the kegs happen to get you in a festive mood. Alternatively, visit Leavenworth during Christmas to see the entire town decked out in lights and, if you’re lucky, covered in fresh-fallen snow! 

Regardless of when you visit Leavenworth, you must spend some time walking around the charming town. You can grab a brat, pretzel, and beer at Munchen Haus, one of the best places to eat in Leavenworth , or sit down at Andres Keller Restaurant for a traditional German meal. Icicle Brewing Company is a fabulous place to try craft beers if you’re looking for a drink! 

If you visit Leavenworth during the summer or early fall, don’t miss the chance to go hiking in The Enchantments. If you want to spend the entire day hiking, the beautiful trek to Colchuck Lake is challenging — but worth it! 

2. Bainbridge Island, Washington  

Bainbridge Island is easily one of the best (and easiest!) day trips from Seattle. In fact, since you can take the ferry from Seattle, you don’t even need a car — and the ferry ride only takes about a half hour each way! 

Bainbridge Island is beautiful to visit in the spring and fall, but the summer months are really when this island comes alive. Summer is a popular time to visit because you can enjoy dry, sunny weather and water sports, like kayaking, paddle boarding, and boating. 

While you are on Bainbridge Island, be sure to visit Blodel Reserve. This stunning nature preserve is absolutely gorgeous, especially in the summer when everything is lush and in bloom. While you are on Bainbridge Island, you should also take a walk down Winslow Way to visit some of the shops, boutiques, and wine-tasting rooms. 

When you get hungry, head to Proper Fish for a delicious lunch of fish and chips. Pegasus Coffeehouse is another charming place to stop if you would like to enjoy coffee, pastries, or lunch. They also serve beer, wine, and cider in the afternoon. 

3. Mount Rainier National Park  

Mount Rainier National Park offers a stunning alpine wonderland for you to explore, with fields of technicolor wildflowers, abundant wildlife, and, of course, the tallest mountain in the Cascade Range. It is one of the best (and more popular) day trips from Seattle.

The national park is located approximately two and a half hours southeast of Seattle, although, since the park has quite a large footprint, you may have a longer drive time depending on where you’re going in the park. Be sure to plan your visit from July through early October, when Rainier’s roads — and its most epic hiking trails — are free of ice and snow.  

The best way to see Mount Rainier is on foot. For example, one of the most popular hikes in the park is called the Skyline Loop, located in the Paradise region of Mount Rainier National Park , which takes you through fields of wildflowers and up to viewpoints with in-your-face views of the Nisqually Glacier or panoramic views of the surrounding mountain peaks. For something a bit more off the beaten path, consider the Summerland Trail , which offers a rushing river, alpine meadows, and some of the most unique views of Mount Ranier in the park. 

4. Vancouver, British Colombia  

On the Pacific Ocean, bordered by mountains, known for rainy weather—these characteristics are true for both Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia. 

Why bother making a trip up north to Canada? Vancouver is an active city with a strong connection to nature and, thanks to its multicultural population, an excellent food scene. So why not take this fun and exciting international day trip? 

Stanley Park is a 1000-acre wooded park in downtown Vancouver. Its world-famous nearly 6-mile seawall trail is perfect for a walk or bike (bikes are available to rent), and there are tons of other trails inside the park as well. The park also has an aquarium, a couple of beaches, and a selection of restaurants. In summer, one could easily spend a day at this park.  

Following the seawall to False Creek, Granville Island is a small but dynamic, artsy neighborhood known for its food and entertainment options—a perfect neighborhood for a day trip . Granville Island is a popular departure point for water sports like kayaking, paddle boarding, and bike boats. Formerly a collection of industrial buildings, the indoor public market now has about 50 vendors selling fresh foods and artisan goods and a wide variety of bars, cafes, and restaurants. The island also has Canada’s first microbrewery: Granville Island Brewery. 

Driving to Vancouver should take 2.5 to 3 hours, though this can vary depending on traffic. On holiday weekends, Amtrak’s Cascade route (3.5 hours) is a better choice. For quicker transit, flights from Seattle to Vancouver are only an hour and often reasonably priced. Don’t forget your passport! 

5. Snoqualmie Falls, Washington  

Snoqualmie Falls is a breathtaking waterfall located 25 miles east of Seattle, making it perfect for a day trip. It takes a 30–45-minute drive, depending on traffic on I-90 E. 

Once you arrive at the falls, you’ll find free parking and a free viewing area open from dawn until dusk. Take a short walk to the observation deck, which offers stunning views of the waterfall. There is also a trail that will take you to the base of the waterfall from the Lower Park Area. This can be a thrilling experience on a day with heavy flow from rainfall. In the evening the falls are also lit up providing a completely different view. 

While you are there, be sure to check out the Salish Lodge.  The dining room has its own view of the falls you can enjoy while eating at the restaurant. It is known especially for its breakfast and the iconic “Honey from Heaven” service where honey from its own hives is poured from high above your plate onto fresh house-made biscuits. 

6. San Juan Islands, Washington  

The San Juan Islands are a cluster of islands in the Salish Sea, with dramatic cliff sides, rugged beaches, and lots of laid-back vibes. They make for one of the best day trips from Seattle!

Given that the San Juan Islands are, well, islands that aren’t otherwise connected to the land, they can be a bit tricky to get to. If you time your visit right, though, you can drive north from Seattle to Anacortes in an hour and a half and then take a ferry to the island of your choice, which usually takes approximately an hour (give or take, depending on the island). 

So why would you make so much effort to head here? Well, the San Juan Islands is one of the best places for whale watching in Washington and is arguably one of the best places on the planet to see orcas, thanks to the abundant salmon found in the region! For the best chance of spotting whales in the Salish Sea, head here in the summertime, when many whale-watching tour companies will literally guarantee that you’ll get to spot a whale during your trip. 

Beyond seeing giants of the sea, the San Juan Islands are packed with wineries and local eateries. You can eat and drink your way through some of the best food and wine on the islands, like Orcas Island’s Hogstone’s Wood Oven or San Juan Island’s Friday Harbor House. Discover more of the best things to do on San Juan Island while you are there.

7. North Cascades National Park  

North Cascades National Park is located in northern Washington, pretty close to the Canadian border. Nevertheless, you can still make a day trip here from Seattle since it is only a two-and-a-half-hour drive (one way). The best method of transportation between Seattle and North Cascades is by car, for no public transportation options exist. If you do not own a car, you can rent a car for the day from the airport or another nearby car rental facility.  

When planning your visit to North Cascades, be sure to do so in the summer months. Due to the fact it is located so far north, the park can see a fair amount of snow throughout most of the year. Therefore, plan a visit for sometime between June and September if you want to experience the best weather.  

There are plenty of reasons to prioritize a day trip from Seattle to North Cascade. For example, there is no entrance fee. Additionally, it is often less busy than other national parks and attractions near Seattle, making it one of the best day trips from Seattle for those wanting to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery of the Pacific Northwest in peace.

North Cascades boasts a variety of attractions and activities to fill your day, like viewpoints, hiking, kayaking, camping, and more. One of the main attractions in the park is Diablo Lake. It is a beautiful and vibrant blue-colored lake surrounded by mountains. You can visit Diablo Lake Vista Point for a view from above or rent kayaks to get out on the water. 

9. Victoria, British Colombia  

For a quick day trip from Seattle, head to Victoria, BC on Vancouver Island. Getting between Seattle and Victoria is easy thanks to the Victoria Clipper, which leaves from Seattle and arrives in downtown Victoria in just 2 hours and 45 minutes. 

Victoria is a charming city and the capital of British Columbia. During a  day trip to Victoria , there is plenty to keep you busy. The best time of year to visit Victoria is from the spring to the fall when most of the shops and restaurants are open and the weather is better for enjoying many of the outdoor activities that Victoria has to offer. 

The city has lots of historical landmarks, gardens, museums, and outdoor activities to explore. Some of the best things to do in Victoria are visiting Butchart Gardens , exploring the Royal BC Museum, or taking a stroll along the beaches or the Inner Harbour. Other popular things to see include the Craigdarroch Castle, the Parliament Buildings, and Fisherman’s Wharf. 

When it comes to food, Victoria has plenty of options ranging from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. If you’re looking for a quick bite, try the Red Fish Blue Fish seafood stand or Tacofino for delicious tacos and burritos. Overall, a day trip to Victoria from Seattle is a great way to explore a new city and experience something different during your trip. 

10. Skagit Valley, Washington  

The Skagit Valley is nestled in a beautiful bowl, with Padilla Bay to the west and the Cascade Mountains to the east. It is fabulous to visit at all times of the year, but it is one of the best day trips from Seattle in the spring when you can see the gorgeous tulips in bloom!

Skagit Valley is perhaps best known for its Washington tulip festival that’s held here every April, with dozens of acres and literally millions of colorful blooms that you can mosey through. Between the expansive flower fields and the jaw-dropping backdrop of the snow-capped Cascades, it’s no wonder why Oprah named this festival one of the top ten best flower festivals in the country! 

Even if you can’t visit in April, you’ll still find plenty of things to do here. For example, drive along Chuckanut Drive, a 30-mile scenic drive that winds along the coastline and provides breathtaking views of the neighboring San Juan Islands. Alternatively, explore some of the teeny yet charming towns of Mount Vernon and La Conner, with historic storefronts and eclectic boutiques to peruse the day away. 

11. Orcas Island, Washington  

You’ll need the whole day-to-day trip to Orcas Island from Seattle — one of the best day trips from Seattle. This beautiful green island is one of the three main San Juan Islands, an archipelago of 172 islands and reefs in the northeastern tip of Puget Sound.  

Start the day by making the 1.5 drive north from Seattle to Anacortes to the Washington State Ferries terminal. Catch a ferry to Orcas Island; about a one-hour boat ride. Orcas Island is a strikingly beautiful destination year-round, although its high season runs from mid-May – October. During the summer months, you’re most likely to spot orca whales during the ferry ride. 

Plan to spend about three hours driving around Orcas Island. Considered the San Juan Islands’ “emerald island,” Orcas is a great destination for outdoor adventurers. Chase waterfalls in Orcas Island’s Moran State Park and enjoy sweeping views from Mount Constitution.  

After you’ve had your fill of fresh air, budget a little time into your day trip to explore Orcas Island’s independent shops and art galleries. The Madrona Bar and Grill in Eastsound is a great place to enjoy a bite to eat with great ocean views before heading back to the ferry dock at the end of the day. 

12. Portland, Oregon  

Portland, Oregon , is one of the best day trips from Seattle if you are looking for a unique city break. It takes just under three hours to get to Portland from Seattle without traffic, so it is easy enough to enjoy as a day trip, although many travelers choose to spend a weekend in Portland. 

When it comes to food and drinks, Portland exceeds at two things — coffee and donuts. Start your day trip to Portland with a coffee from Good Coffee and a donut (or two) from Blue Star Donuts, and then head on over to Powell’s City of Books. Powell’s is the largest new and used bookstore in the world, housing nearly one million books. If you are a book nerd (like me), you could easily get lost inside this iconic bookstore! 

Next, head to the International Rose Test Garden for a reprieve from the city. You will be able to see thousands of beautifully manicured plants and gorgeous flowers. While you’re here, the Pittock Mansion — a local history museum — is just a few miles away if you want to pay a visit. 

Portland offers no shortage of amazing places to eat dinner to wrap up your day trip from Seattle. Consider Olympia Provisions for charcuterie, Nostrana for Italian, and Noble Rot for a nice, upscale dinner overlooking the city. 

13. Deception Pass State Park  

Deception Pass State Park is a magnificent natural wonder located in the northwest corner of Washington state, spanning over 4,100 acres of forest, lakes, and ocean shoreline. The park is famous for its breathtaking views of Deception Pass, a narrow strait that separates Whidbey Island from Fidalgo Island. The best part? You can visit  Deception Pass State Park  from Seattle in under an hour and a half, making it one of the best day trips from Seattle! 

The park offers visitors a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, boating, and wildlife watching. There are over 38 miles of hiking trails that wind through old-growth forests, rocky cliffs, and coastal beaches, providing hikers with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. For the best trail that gives you a true tour of the area, try the Lighthouse Point and Lottie Point via Rosario Head Trail. It’s just under 5 miles and gets you the best views. 

One of the main attractions of the park is the Deception Pass Bridge, a historic engineering marvel that spans over 1,500 feet across the strait, connecting the two islands. You can walk across the bridge or get views from below from the hike mentioned above or from Macs Cove. 

In addition to its natural beauty, the park also has a rich cultural history, with evidence of indigenous occupation dating back over 8,000 years. Visitors can learn about the park’s history and cultural significance at the park’s Interpretive Center. 

If you’re looking for a day trip that doesn’t require you to drive for half of the day and gives you a gorgeous state park to wander around, Deception Pass State Park is your best bet! 

14. Tacoma, Washington  

Tacoma has so many things to do as well as sights to see, including the high school from the movie 10 Things I Hate About You . Beyond that, if you like being outdoors and seeing the most incredible views around, then spend your time at Point Defiance Park .

You’ll find that it’s so much more than just a park. It has walking trails, a 5-mile drive loop, numerous lookout points, a beach, a playground, a zoo, an aquarium, a living history museum, and numerous gardens. You can even find an over 450-year-old Douglas fir called the Mountaineer tree. And there is no bad time to visit Tacoma or Point Defiance Park, it all just depends on what type of activities you want to do. So, be sure to add this stop to your itinerary.    

There is one place in downtown Tacoma sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, and that is Corina’s Bakery. They have non-allergy baked goods as well as gluten-free and vegan items to choose from! 

15. Poulsbo , Washington  

The  town of Poulsbo  is located on the Kitsap Peninsula. It takes between sixty and eighty minutes to get to Poulsbo from Seattle, depending on which route you take. The town is charming year-round and has special events for every season, but it is especially beautiful in the spring and autumn.  

Visiting Poulsbo is like taking a European vacation without leaving the United States – perfect for anyone looking for a quiet European-style escape from the big city. Founded by Norwegian immigrants, Poulsbo is nicknamed “Little Norway” and named for a Norwegian village. 

The town’s architecture is inspired by the home country, with an obvious Scandinavian influence. The architecture combined with the town’s fjord setting work together to create a truly magical experience that is unlike anything else in the state, making Poulsbo one of the best day trips from Seattle.

Make sure to spend time exploring what makes Poulsbo special. Check out Sluys Poulsbo Bakery for their Viking Cups, tour Poulsbo Heritage Museum to learn about the town’s Norwegian cultural influence, and walk through the town’s center to see how many Viking murals you can spot. 

16. Whidbey Island, Washington  

Located northwest of Seattle, Whidbey Island offers a beautiful escape from the city of both place and time. The island features several beautiful parks and historical sites including Deception Point which features a striking landscape and Fort Ebey for a visit through a former WWII defense fort. Additionally, there’s a National Park Site in the area,  Ebey’s Landing National Historic Reserve  which preserves the history, architecture, and landscape of the earliest settlers in the area. 

Coupeville, the charming island town, makes a perfect base for those exploring the island with both its options for food and lodging. The island is also great for lots of wildlife viewing, with whale watching, which is a popular activity along the island. The island is a great escape with its idyllic landscape, farms, markets, and charming old-style life.

Throughout the year, the island plays host to several great festivals including the Whidbey Marathon, Holland Happening (celebrating the Dutch Heritage of Oak Harbor), Acoustic Music Festival, Shakespeare Festival, and Coupeville Arts and Craft Festival. 

Travel to Whidbey Island usually takes about two hours when including the ferry (from Mukilteo) or 2.5 hours when driving north and down across the bridge by Deception Pass State Park. The best seasons to visit the park are from spring to fall for most activities and festivals. These also tend to be the most expensive times to visit as well. 

Restaurants are plentiful across the island and depending on which part of the island you are there’s always a nice town to stop. However, a must-stop is the Greenbank Farm which was once the largest grower of Loganberries and now has a great café and farmers market to explore. 

17. Bellingham, Washington  

Bellingham is a charming college town close to the Canadian border, overflowing with adventure and activities for every age. It’s an enjoyable day trip from Seattle, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Seattle, with amazing views of the North Cascades all the way up. The best time to visit is during the late spring or early summer when the weather is beautiful, the waterfalls are flowing, and the wildlife is active. 

You may want to spend a few hours enjoying nature trails outside the city. Larrabee State Park offers beaches with some incredible tidepools and beautiful hiking trails. Whatcom Falls Park is also a beautiful park for hiking and has one of the most delightful  waterfalls in WA state . 

Stop in Fairhaven if you can, a photo-worthy historic district in Bellingham with a charming, small-town feel. There are many shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore, as well as historic buildings and beautiful views of the bay. The Spark Museum is a truly fantastic museum for all ages, with a fascinating collection of vintage electrical equipment and interactive exhibits that demonstrate the science behind electricity. 

End your visit with an incredible sunset dinner at Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill or grab a sandwich from The Sandwich Odyssey and bring it with you for a sunset walk along the boardwalk at Boulevard Park. Whatever your interests, there’s sure to be something to enjoy in this delightful city, making it one of the best day trips from Seattle for travelers of all types!

18. Vashon Island, Washington  

Jump on the Washington State Ferry and take the 30-minute ride to glorious Vashon Island.  Vashon Island is one of the best day trips from Seattle because it is artsy and creative, the beaches are beautifully understated, and it is really bike friendly.

If love hiking, try one of the family-friendly trails such as Fern Cove. For more adventurous activities, try kayaks, paddleboards, and e-bikes at Vashon Adventures.

Head to Maury Island and stroll along the shoreline, a beautiful wild coast with incredible views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainer. Keep walking to Point Robinson, a viewing point on the “Whale Trail.” If you’re lucky, you might spot a resident Orca (May to October is the best time). Whilst in Maury, visit one of the island’s three vineyards: The Vashon Winery, Palouse Winery, and Maury Island Winery. They all have tasting rooms, but they are not open all year, so check their websites for times before you visit. 

No visit would be complete without exploring what the locals call ‘uptown’. 99th Avenue is lined with gift shops, emporiums, art galleries, and curiosity shops. Lose yourself in the Vashon Bookshop, pay a visit to the Vashon Centre for Arts, or discover the island’s history at the Vashon Heritage Museum. 

Stop at Anu Rana’s kitchen for delicious gluten-free and vegan coffee and cakes. For quick bites, head to the Snapdragon Bakery, and for dinner try The Vashon Hardware Store, not only a great eatery but at one time, the island’s first hardware store. 

Vashon Island has such a relaxed vibe. It gets busy in July and August, but never too busy. It is also a great destination in the spring or autumn. It is the kind of place where you could just stay and put down roots or at least visit over and over again! 

19. Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a stunning natural treasure located just outside of Seattle, making it the perfect day trip destination for anyone visiting the city.

Situated in Washington State, just 2.5 hours by car,  Olympic National Park  offers an array of outdoor activities and breathtaking landscapes to explore. From Lake Crescent to Sol Duc Falls and Shi Shi Beach, Olympic National Park promises a unique experience that will make any day trip from Seattle unforgettable.

At the park, you can take advantage of incredible hiking trails that offer spectacular views along with opportunities for wildlife viewing as well as fishing, boating, camping, and kayaking. Olympic also provides access to some of the most beautiful beaches on the West Coast, including Ruby Beach, Rialto Beach, and Kalaloch beach, which are all great spots for swimming or simply soaking up some sun while admiring the rugged coastline. Follow this Olympic National Park itinerary for more inspiration on hikes and other activities to enjoy in the park.

Plus, if you get hungry after a morning of adventures in the park, be sure to try some local favorites like the Salmon House Restaurant or Lake Crescent Lodge Restaurant on your day trip.

The best time to visit depends on what activities you plan on doing. For example, if you’re planning to go hiking, then spring or fall is ideal as it will be less crowded. If you’re looking for a beach day then summer is your best bet. The sunnier warm days are perfect for exploring the Olympic Coastline or discovering the Olympic Mountains. No matter when you decide to visit Olympic National Park, one thing is for sure. It’s an incredible day trip from Seattle that you won’t forget! 

FAQs: Best Day Trips from Seattle

What cities are two hours away from seattle.

The best cities to visit within two hours of Seattle include Tacoma, Bellingham, Snoqualmie, North Bend, and Bellevue.

What is the easiest island to visit from Seattle?

Bainbridge Island is the easiest island to visit from Seattle. It only takes about a half hour to arrive by ferry, so you will have plenty of time to explore the island’s eateries, wineries, museums, and nature preserves on your day trip from Seattle before heading back to the city.

What is the best island to visit on a day trip from Seattle?

The San Juan Islands (Lopez, Orcas, and San Juan Island) are some of the best islands to visit on a day trip from Seattle. They offer a wide range of activities for all types of travelers, including tons of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. In the summer, these islands are some of the best in the country for whale watching. It is almost guaranteed you will see a killer whale!

Enjoy These Best Day Trips from Seattle & Explore the Pacific Northwest

Hopefully, you will have enough time during your trip to Seattle to squeeze in one (or more!) of these day trips to Seattle. There is truly a perfect day trip for every season — head to the tulip festival in the spring, national parks in the summer, stunning islands in the fall, and festive towns in the winter!

Which of these best day trips from Seattle, Washington, sounds the most interesting to you?

Save These Best Day Trips from Seattle for Later

If you are looking for more things to do in the Pacific Northwest besides these best day trips from Seattle, check out these other posts:

• 9 Fabulous Pike Place Market Food Tours in Seattle
• Jam-Packed Itinerary for One Fun Day in Seattle
• Helpful Pike Place Market Guide: What to See & Eat

About the Author

Brittany Sawyer

Hi, I'm Brit! I'm a writer from Phoenix, AZ who loves coffee, golden retriever puppies, and obviously, travel! I help ordinary women (like me!) dream, plan, and do extraordinary travel experiences.

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12 Best Year round Day Trips from Seattle

Last Updated on January 30, 2024

One of the many wonderful things about Seattle is that there are so many things to do outside the city! Seattle is surrounded by a vast diversity of landscapes within a few hours, including islands, forests, mountains, orchards, farmland and desert canyons. In this post I’ll talk about the 12 best day trips from Seattle from my perspective as a fourth generation Seattleite.

Each day trip also includes transportation options for getting there (does it require a car or not) and what to do when you’re there. All of these are good winter day trips except for Mt St Helens. I drive an electric vehicle so I have included information about electric vehicle charging along each route as well.

I define day trips from Seattle as places that are within three hours. More than three hours (each way) doesn’t feel like an enjoyable day trip to me. The ones over two hours all have elements that make the journey itself part of the experience, such as scenic driving on the way to Mt Rainier National Park or a ferry ride to an island. Although I’ve included Olympic National Park, I have not included the Hoh Rainforest near Forks as it’s too far from Seattle (4-5 hours each way) for a day trip and much better for a weekend adventure . There are lots of other places to see amazing old growth forest that are much closer . I also left out North Cascades National Park , even though it’s amazing, it really requires two days.

Use these links to jump to the day trips from Seattle in this post that appeal to you:

• Bainbridge Island (ferry excursion very close to Seattle, no car required)
• Vashon Island (ferry excursion very close to Seattle – more laid back and less urban, no car required)
• Tacoma (arty and foodie urban scene near Seattle with epic parks, no car required)
• Snoqualmie Pass Hiking or Snowshoeing (mountain hikes of various levels of challenge for summer and winter, requires a car)
• Whidbey Island and Boeing Tour (Island hiking, wine and beer with a side of airplanes, requires a car)
• Lopez Island (extremely laid back ferry excursion, requires a car at least part of the way)
• Bellingham (beer and bookstore oriented outdoorsy town on the way to Alaska, no car required)
• Yakima (fruit, wine and Mexican food with sunny canyon hikes, requires a car)
• Mt Rainier National Park (Big Mountain, big snow, big trees, requires a car)
• Mt St Helens National Monument (Impressive volcanic destruction, requires a car)
• Olympic National Park (mountains, forests, waterfalls and beaches, requires a car)
• Victoria, British Columbia (scenic ferry ride to Canada, with tea)

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#1 – Bainbridge Island

A day trip from Seattle to Bainbridge Island is a year round excursion with hiking, wineries, shops, restaurants and a park right next to the ferry this is an easy car free option.

Travel time from Seattle 30 minute ferry ride, plus short driving or bus times if you visit different parts of the island.

• Take in the fantastic view of Seattle’s skyline from the ferry ($8.65 round trip)
• Lunch in one of Bainbridge’s fun restaurants (such as J’aime Les Crepes, Harbor Public House, Blackbird Bakery or the Streamliner Diner)
• The Bloedel Reserve – Botanical Gardens with a couple miles of trails ($17)
• Suquamish Museum – learn about the first people of Seattle who now live around the Salish Sea, including Chief Si’ahl (Duwamish and Suquamish) for whom Seattle is named, combine this with a visit to Chief Si’ahl’s grave ($5)
• Suquamish Seafoods – purchase super fresh local seafood
• Japanese American Exclusion Memorial – located on the opposite side of the bay from the ferry terminal, this memorial remembers and honors the American citizens of Japanese descent who were forced from their homes and into internment camps during World War II.
• Take a hike on one of the many wonderful hiking trails on Bainbridge Island .

Best time of year : all year! I really like the Bloedel Reserve when the springs flowers are blooming, especially the rhodedendrons (March through May). The ferry ride is most fun in the summer when you can soak up the sunshine on the deck but everything is open and accessible year round.

Watch out for : Long ferry delays (only a concern if you’re bringing a car) on Friday evenings leaving Seattle and Sunday afternoons returning in the spring, summer and early fall

Driving Information : If you’re bringing a car on the ferry, it costs quite a bit more ($40 return in the summer, a bit less in winter). You can drive to all the locations mentioned above, although parking in the town next to the ferry can be challenging on weekends.

Electric Vehicle Charging : Currently there are not any fast chargers for electric vehicles on the island, but the distances are short so you probably don’t need one. There are several Level 2 chargers.

Getting there without a car: Getting to Bainbridge Island is easy without a car (easier than with a car). Just head downtown and get on the ferry! There is bus service available on the island (or bring a bike and ride around) and all the highlights are accessible by bus except for Gazzam Lake and Suquamish Seafoods.

#2 – Vashon Island

For a slow paced year round transit accessible day trip from Seattle that’s focused on a mellow forest hike followed by a beer or coffee in a charming town, Vashon Island is the place.

Travel time from Seattle: 1 hour 30 minutes

• Ferry Ride ($5.65 round trip)
• Hike in a quiet, peaceful forest or to a secluded beach, or both!
• Delicious, local craft beer

Best time of year : All year!

Watch out for : Long ferry lines on the Seattle side on Friday nights and on the Vashon side on Sunday afternoons

Driving Information: Like Bainbridge, driving a car on the Vashon ferry costs more ($25.95) but gives you more flexibility. If you have access to a car, Vashon is a fun and traffic free place to drive around and explore. Drive to the Fauntleroy ferry terminal in West Seattle and hop on the ferry.

Electric Vehicle Charging: Currently there are not any fast chargers for electric vehicles on the island, but the distances are short so you probably don’t need one. There are several Level 2 chargers.

Getting there without a car : This post talks in detail about a car free trip to Vashon Island. Bus service is available on the island so you can hike and explore the village without a car.

#3 – Tacoma

Tacoma is a particularly good day trip from Seattle for those who are into art and a fun urban scene. If you haven’t been to Tacoma recently, it’s changed a lot in the past few years! You can take a fun train ride here too.

Travel time from Seattle: 30-60 minute drive (traffic can be intense), 45 minute bus ride, one hour train ride

• Train ride to Tacoma ($10 round trip on Sounder, slightly more on Amtrak)
• Tacoma’s food scene – Tacoma has amazing food! Check out this post for the inside scoop on the best food in Tacoma .
• Tacoma’s art scene – check out the Museum of Glass featuring stunning blown glass and live demonstrations ($17) and the Tacoma Art Museum ($18)
• Washington State History Museum ($14 – free the third Thursday of the month from 3-8 pm)
• Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium ($22)
• Point Defiance Park – with trails, gardens, beach and an epic new 60 foot series of slides, this park has something for everyone! The park is free, admission is required for the zoo.

Best time of year: All year!

Watch out for : Epic traffic between Seattle and Tacoma, however if you are taking a day trip from Seattle, you’ll likely be going toward Tacoma in the morning and returning in the afternoon which minimizes the traffic hassle

Driving Information: Other than traffic, driving is straightforward and 30-60 minutes.

Electric Vehicle Charging: There is a fast charger at the LeMay car museum between the Tacoma Dome and downtown. There are also many fast chargers between Seattle and Tacoma

Getting there without a Car: You can take either Amtrak or the Sounder train from Seattle to Tacoma. There are limited schedule options for the train. The train station is not downtown, but a quick light rail trip will get you there. You can get to Point Defiance and all the highlights mentioned here on transit. Sound transit buses are also a good option going from Seattle to Tacoma and are more frequent.

#4 – Snoqualmie Pass Hiking or Snowshoeing

Looking for some outdoor adventure in the mountains without too much travel time? A day trip from Seattle to Snoqualmie Pass for a hike (summer) or a snowshoe outing (winter) is perfect.

Travel time from Seattle : 1 hour (sometimes longer in winter depending on road conditions)

Highlights (Favorite Hike and Snowshoe trails at Snoqualmie Pass)

• Snow Lake : One of the most popular trails in the state, with good reason! Go late in the day or on a weekday if possible. Approximately 7 miles with 1800 feet of elevation gain. Snow free July – October (high avalanche danger in winter).
• Lodge Lake : a mellower and quieter trail along the PCT, 3 miles with 500 feet of elevation gain. Snow free July – October
• Annette Lake : a favorite of mine a few miles before the summit of Snoqualmie Pass. 8 miles with 2000 feet of elevation gain. Snow free July-October. This can make a good winter outing also!
• Asahel Curtis Nature Trail: a short one mile, mostly flat nature walk, this is a great place to see old growth forest with minimal effort. Snow free from late May through October.
• Franklin Falls : A spectacular waterfall on a 4 mile hike with 400 feet of elevation gain. This can be done as a winter hike or snowshoe also, although it’s much longer (8 miles) due to snow closing the access road. For a snow free experience, try late June through October and if you’re looking for a snowy outing make it December – March. Heads up: while beautiful this hike is very close to I-90 and you can hear freeway noise most of the time.
• Gold Creek Valley Snowshoe : A great place to try snowshoeing for the first time! It’s mostly flat and you can go up to 6 miles (although you can make it as short as you like).
• Kendall Peak Lakes Snowshoe : This is a LONG trail (9 miles is a long way to snowshoe) and at 1700 feet of elevation gain it definitely climbs. It has great views though and even if you only go a couple of miles you’ll be out in the snowy forest with mountains all around you.
• Snowshoe Pacific Crest Trail North from the pass : Climbing gently for a couple of miles through the forest, this is a mellow outing without big views but gives the opportunity to enjoy a quiet snowy forest.

Best time of year: For summer hikes without snow, July through October is the best time at Snoqualmie Pass. For snowshoe outings, there is usually enough snow by mid December which lasts into April most years. In between (May, June and November) the in between conditions are not ideal for hiking or snowshoeing at Snoqulamie Pass.

Watch out for : Crowds at trailheads in summer and winter (try later in the day or a weekday if you don’t like crowds), avalanche control work closing the pass in winter, winter driving conditions on Snoqualmie pass, summer weekend traffic.

Driving Information: Most trailheads in Washington require a Northwest Forest Pass to park and a Washington Snopark pass in winter . You can purchase a one day permit online before you go (which I recommend, you can’t always get them at the trailhead). If you’re a local or staying awhile, you can get the annual pass. Snoqualmie Pass is frequently closed for periods in winter for avalanche control or dangerous driving conditions, check the report before heading out.

Electric Vehicle Charging: There is fast charging at Snoqulamie Pass and also in North Bend.

Getting there without a Car: Unfortunately getting to Snoqualmie Pass without a car is a challenge. There is a bus that goes to the pass, but it doesn’t stop at any other stops.

#5 – Whidbey Island, Boeing Factory and the Skagit Valley

A day trip from Seattle to Whidbey Island will take you to beautiful beaches, hiking trails and through picturesque farmland in view of the mountains. While this is a perfect day trip, you might decide you need to stay longer! You can take the ferry to the island and back, or make it a loop and visit the agricultural area of the Skagit Valley as well. The Boeing Factory is located near the ferry terminal and is well worth a visit.

Travel time from Seattle: 2 hours (varies a bit depending on exactly where you go)

• Ferry ride ($12.25 for car and driver each way, $5.20 for additional passengers)
• Boeing Airplane Factory Tour ($27 for tour, $12 for viewing gallery only) – if you’ve ever ridden on an airplane, I highly recommend the Boeing Factory Tour! Even if you’re not that “into” airplanes, basically any human is going to find the process of building an airplane fascinating. You can either take the 90 minute tour (worth it!) or just go to the sky deck viewing platform where you can watch the assembly line in action. The Boeing tour is located very near the Mukilteo ferry terminal.
• Historic Coupeville – Check out the charming restaurants in Coupeville and settle in to try the world famous Penn Cove mussels from the bay.
• Visit a winery, brewery or distillery – there are so many on Whidbey Island! Check out this comprehensive round up of the best wineries and breweries and here for distilleries .
• Ebey’s Landing hike – one of my favorite hikes in the state, a four mile loop with about 300 feet of elevation gain features mountain and water views, eagles and a beach.
• Deception Pass State Park – beaches, trails, a small lake and epic views, this park has it all
• Skagit Valley Tulip Festival – if you’re visit is in March or April, make sure to see the gorgeous mulitcolored daffodil and tulip fields in the Skagit Valley.

Best time of year: If you’re going to include the Skagit Valley, make it in March or April when you can see the incredible daffodils and tulips! Otherwise, this is a good day trip from Seattle year round.

Watch out for: Crowds in the summer on the ferry, crowds in the summer at Ebey’s Landing and Deception Pass, traffic southbound on I-5 between the Skagit Valley and Seattle on Sunday afternoons in the summer (go the other way if doing the loop to avoid this, the ferry line is more enjoyable!)

Driving Information: You can do this as a loop driving north from Seattle through the Skagit Valley to Burlington and across the Deception Pass bridge to Oak Harbor, then south down the island and return on the ferry. You can also just take the ferry and explore wherever you like, returning the same way. For traffic reasons, if doing the loop I’d recommend starting with the drive and returning by ferry.

Electric Vehicle Charging: There is not fast charging on the island (there are level 2 chargers, I have used the one in Langley that works great), but there is in Mukilteo, Everett and Burlington.

Getting there without a Car: You will need a car for this trip.

#6 – Lopez Island

A day trip from Seattle to Lopez Island is longer and more involved than Bainbridge, Vashon or Whidbey, but you can really get away from it all! If you’re looking for a quiet island with a foodie scene and beautiful scenery, Lopez is for you! Consider bringing a bike as this is the perfect place for mellow bike riding .

Travel time from Seattle: 2 hours to the Anacortes ferry terminal, 50 minute ferry ride

• Ferry ride from Anacortes to Lopez Island ($49.85 round trip for car and driver plus $14 for each additional person)
• Holly B’s Bakery – the best bakery in Washington State in this local’s opinion. Get a cinnamon roll!
• Ursa Minor – spectacular and expensive-but-worth-it super local food that changes regularly. Required for foodies!
• Spencer Spit State Park – forested trails, one of the best beaches in Washington and a spit that gives a beautiful view of surrounding islands, this is a peaceful and beautiful place to spend a few hours (kayak rental available in summer)
• Fisherman’s bay – a flat trail around the outside of the bay right by the village where the shops and restaurants are
• Lopez Island Vineyards – beautiful vineyard and friendly, low key wine tasting
• Biking – if you have access to a bike (or you can rent one here ), this is a great place to ride a bike and explore for a few hours (or get between the other highlights listed here)

Best time of year : Summer is gorgeous and warm, also this is when the ferry reservations fill up fast (not an issue if you’re planning to bike instead). This is a good trip all year, though hours of businesses may be more limited (check before your trip)

Watch out for: ferry crowds (if bringing a car), missing the last ferry for the day

Driving Information : If you’re driving a car on the ferry, reservations are highly recommended and necessarily in the summer and on holidays. Make sure to get to the ferry terminal an hour early and pay attention to the time so you don’t miss your ferry back! If you’re driving to Anacortes but not driving on the ferry, there are many paid parking lots around the ferry terminal, make sure to allow extra time for parking and getting down to the dock.

Electric Vehicle Charging: Lopez Island and Anacortes do not have fast charging stations, the closest fast charger is in Burlington (20 miles from the ferry)

Getting there without a Car: Getting to Anacortes without a car is possible, but not for a day trip (it’s a four hour one way trip). If you want to leave your car behind in Anacortes, I recommend having a bike (or arranging for bike rental to drop off at the ferry when you arrive) as there is no public transportation on the island.

#7 – Bellingham

Beer lovers, get ready to try them all! Bellingham has a big craft beer scene, access to lots of outdoor activities and is the departure point for the Alaska ferry .

Travel time from Seattle: 2 hours

• Scenic drive on Chuckanut Drive between Burlington and Bellingham (if driving, if on the train, you’ll see it too!)
• Oyster Dome hike : a spectacular view hike (need a car to access it) near Bellingham, stop on the way there, 5 miles round trip and 1000 feet of elevation gain
• Whatcom Falls Park – beautiful park with trails and a waterfall
• Sehome Arboretum – forested trails adjacent to the Western Washington University campus
• South Bay Trail – this converted rail trail goes on a boardwalk in the water part way of it’s 2 mile length between the Fairhaven neighborhood and downtown Bellingham
• Try the extensive craft breweries
• Village Books – a gigantic independent bookstore!
• Calophon Cafe – tasty food, below the bookstore (order African peanut soup!)
• Tony’s Coffee – good coffee in the Fairhaven neighborhood

Watch out for: big crowds around festivals, especially the Ski to Sea event on Memorial Day weekend, Bellingham is often colder and windier than Seattle during the winter

Driving Information: Avoid driving north from Seattle between 2 and 6 pm, it will take much longer! If you’re driving, make sure to take the slightly slower route along Chuckanut Drive between Burlington and Bellingham. Amazing views along this route!

Electric Vehicle Charging: There is fast charging in Sehome Village near the Western Washington University Campus. There is also fast charging along the way in Burlington, Everett and Edmonds.

Getting there without a Car: Taking the beautiful Amtrak Cascades to Bellingham is a great option for a day trip. The train tracks are not in the same place as the freeway and the train is way more scenic! For a day trip, you would want to take the morning train which departs Seattle at 7:45 am and arrives in Bellingham at 10 am. The return train leaves just before 8 pm and gets back to Seattle at 10 pm.

If you want a shorter day, you can always take the Amtrak bus one way (more time options) or you could take the Bolt Bus (which is also cheaper). You can get around Bellingham to the highlights listed above (except for Chuckanut drive, which you would see from the train, and Oyster Dome) on transit or by walking from the train station.

#8 – Yakima

A different climate and geography make Yakima feel a world away from Seattle! The vast amounts of farmland yielding the majority of hops used in the craft beer industry, miles of vineyards and orchards of apples, pears, peaches and cherries make this a local food lover’s dream. You can combine a day trip to Yakima with a summer loop through Mt Rainier National Park to make a weekend out of it too!

Travel time from Seattle: 2 hours and 30 minutes

• Cowiche Canyon hike – especially wonderful in spring (wildflowers) and fall (fall colors) this mostly flat walk for up to 4 miles through a canyon can include hiking to a winery!
• Umtanum Canyon hike – a bigger canyon than Cowiche, between Yakima and Ellensburg, up to 6 miles with 500 feet of elevation gain.
• Wine tasting – the entire area around Yakima is part of Washington’s fast growing wine scene. Find one that looks like fun and stop in. This wine tasting is come as you are and affordable! You can visit the winery at Cowiche Canyon as a starting point
• Los Hernandez Tamales – located in Union Gap and now with a couple of other locations nearby, Los Hernandez does tamales better than anyone and has become famous! Go in April or May and get the Asparagus pepper jack tamales – amazing!
• Eat tacos at Fiesta foods (in the warmer months they have a taco truck in the parking lot)
• Pick your own taste of Yakima’s amazing fruit at West Valley U Pick

Best time of year: My favorite times to visit Yakima are spring (April and May) and late summer/fall (September/October). At that time of year, Yakima is warm and sunny while it tends to be gray and wet on the west side of the mountains. Fall is an especially good time to take in the bountiful harvest!

Watch out for: Yakima gets much hotter than Seattle in the summer, traffic on I-90 returning to Seattle on Sunday afternoons in summer, traffic conditions on Snoqualmie pass

Driving Information: The fastest way to get to Yakima on a day trip from Seattle is to cross Snoqualmie Pass on I-90 and then head south and east from Ellensburg on I-82. I highly recommend driving one way on Canyon Road between Ellensburg and Yakima. It takes about 20 minutes longer but the scenic route is well worth it! Consider a loop going one way through Mt Rainier if it’s the time of year that Highway 410 is open over Chinook Pass (late May through mid November).

Electric Vehicle Charging: Walmart in Yakima has fast charging (in my experience Walmart is a very reliable fast charging option). Fast charging is also available in Ellensburg, Cle Elum, Snoqualmie Pass and North Bend.

Getting there without a Car : The only way to get there for a day trip without a car is to fly, which is a bit of a hassle. You will also need a car to get to all the highlights mentioned above.

#9 – Mt Rainier National Park

Mt Rainier is a classic day trip from Seattle and well worth the drive. Seasonal considerations are extremely important in as your options are quite different depending on the time of year. This is addressed below. This is a great trip for anyone who loves the outdoors or National Parks.

Travel time from Seattle : 2-3 hours depending on which part of the park you are going to.

• Views of Mt Rainier (if the mountain is “out”!), this is what everyone wants to see with good reason! But don’t let the lack of a view stop you from going since Mt Rainier has so many other wonderful things to offer such as..
• Wildflowers – Mt Rainier is world famous for it’s gorgeous alpine wildflowers (late July and early August). Here are my suggestions for the best places to go to see them and avoid the crowds
• Waterfalls – Mt Rainier has spectacular waterfalls! A couple of great places to see them are Narada Falls (short walk from the road on the way to the Paradise Visitor Center) and the incredible and uncrowded waterfalls on the eastside of the park ; May and June are a particularly good time to see waterfalls
• Snowshoeing – snowshoeing can be enjoyed around the Paradise visitor center from November or December all the way until May or June (depending on the snow pack depth that year).

Best time of year: It really depends on what you want to experience. Mt Rainier National Park is open all year, though some areas are not open all year. Theses guidelines should help you determine the best places to go based on the time of year you’re visiting or planning your timing around what you want to see

• November – April: Winter conditions, all roads on the east side of the park are closed. Expect to encounter snow. The park service requires (and checks) that you have chains with you from November 1st through April 30th, regardless of the current road conditions . This is a good time to visit Paradise and gawk at the epic amount of snow and take in winter views of Mt Rainier . For more solitude, you can also go to the northwest corner of the park at this time of year.
• May – early July: Spring conditions, roads start to open in late May but expect deep snow in the high country. This is a great time to visit the lowlands of the park and see waterfalls and old growth forest. Drive up to Paradise if the forecast is favorable for seeing the mountain or if you want to try some spring snowshoeing!
• Late July – Late August: Summer is short but spectacular! This time of year is when the wildflowers are out and usually the trails are snow free and all the roads are open. Check out my perfect summer day trip for Mt Rainier for tips on avoiding the crowds.
• September – October: Fall brings shorter days and colder temperatures but (usually) not snow yet! Spectacular fall colors in the high country in September!

Watch out for: epic crowds in July and August – especially on weekends and especially at the Paradise area, frequent road closures and washouts in winter, updated road conditions are available for the park here, rapidly changing and unpredictable weather, deep snow in high country until July.

Driving Information: Mt Rainier is crowded in the peak summer months. On weekends, often there is a multi-hour wait to get into the park. You can avoid this by arriving after 3pm (which works on our long summer days) or very early in the morning, or on a weekday. The cost to enter the park is $30/vehicle (unless you have a federal lands pass).

Electric Vehicle Charging: Mt Rainier National Park does not have an option for reliable EV charging. The closest charging is in Tacoma and Auburn, which does not give me enough range to get to the park in my EV (mine has a 100 mile range). If your EV has a longer range, you might be able to do it.

Getting there without a car: To get to Mt Rainier, you’ll either need to drive or take a tour. Taking a tour is a fantastic way to not have to worry about driving or parking and let an expert show you around. I highly recommend Evergreen Escapes , in fact, I used to be a guide for them. Their guides are the best.

#10 – Mt St Helens National Monument

Geology nerds rejoice! On May 15, 1980, Mt St Helens erupted and changed the landscape forever. Here you can see up close the destruction and recovery of nature after this historic eruption. There’s nothing like the landscape of Mt St Helens , don’t miss it! In my opinion, this day trip is only worth it if you’ll be able to see the mountain when you arrive (check the webcam for current conditions). The road to the Johnston Ridge Observatory is open mid May through October.

Travel time from Seattle: 3 hours

• Other worldly volcanic landscape
• Learning about the geology of the Pacific ring of fire and how it impacts the land and people
• Gorgeous wildflowers in July
• Impressive in-your-face views of a mountain with it’s top blown off and the massive crater left behind
• The film at the Johnston Ridge Observatory (seriously, it’s really good and has a spectacular ending) ($5)
• The buried A frame house
• The drive from I-5 to Johnston Ridge Observatory where you see the path of destruction of the volcano and the clear lines of where the blast zone was
• Walk along the Boundary Trail from Johnston Ridge

Best time of year: The Johnston Ridge Observatory is open mid May through October. The best chance of a clear day is in July and August, but any clear day when it’s open will be great!

Watch out for: complete lack of shade anywhere (trees were obliterated by the volcano), hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and water are critical, I-5 traffic

Driving information: Getting to Mt St Helens is a straightforward, though long, drive from Seattle, mostly on I-5. The Johnston Ridge Observatory is 55 miles from I-5.

Electric Vehicle Charging : The closest fast charging is in Castle Rock, where you will leave I-5. If you have a range of over 110 miles, you should be able to do it.

Getting there without a Car: Getting to Mt St Helens National Monument requires a car, unless you are on an organized tour.

#11 – Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is world famous for it’s stunning old growth forests, spectacular mountain vistas, rushing rivers, cascading waterfalls, hot springs, remote beaches and more. It’s far too much to see in a day (if you’d like to spend more time there, check out my three day itinerary for Olympic National Park ). For a day trip from Seattle, you have to limit yourself to certain parts of the park, but you’ll still get to have an amazing experience.

You have a couple of options for a day trip from Seattle:

• Go to the north side of the park, near Port Angeles (Hurricane Ridge, Lake Crescent)
• Go to the southeast side of the park, near Aberdeen (Quinault Rainforest, Ocean beaches)

Travel time from Seattle: Approximately 3 hours (depending on exactly where you go)

Highlights – North side of the park

• Ferry ride from Seattle to Bainbridge Island ($40 round trip for car and driver plus $8.65 round trip for each passenger)
• Hurricane Ridge – if weather provides a view (you can check at the Port Angeles Visitor Center) the view here is absolutely spectacular. There are many hikes of various lengths you can do here, or you can enjoy a picnic and take in the view
• Hurricane Hill hike or snowshoe (depending on the season – there are guided snowshoe hikes here on winter weekends)
• Marymere Falls – This 2 mile round trip hike (you can make it longer by connecting it to a loop around Lake Crescent Lodge) features old growth forest (giant ancient trees!) and a lovely waterfall. It’s mostly flat, though there is some climbing (a couple hundred feet) just before the waterfall)
• Lake Crescent – this beautiful and enormous lake is a must see. The Lake Crescent lodge offers rowboat and canoe rentals

Highlights – Southeast part of the park

• Lake Quinault – a stunning lake surrounded by ancient trees! Stop into the lodge or forest service office to determine which trails are open (there are frequent downed trees, especially in winter). There are multiple trails where you can get into the ancient forest without much elevation gain. At a minimum be sure to check out the 1/2 mile Quinault Rainforest nature trail and the Giant Sitka Spruce tree! I also recommend having lunch at the historic Lake Quinault Lodge
• Tidepooling at Ruby Beach – if you can time it right, Ruby Beach is a fantastic place for tidepooling!
• Stroll Kalaloch Beach and find the Tree of Life, a giant tree with exposed roots and erosion takes the ground away beneath it

Best time of year: Olympic National Park is open all year and most of the roads you get to in a day trip are open. Make sure to check the road conditions as there are frequent storms which can damage and close roads during the winter. The best time of year to go to Hurricane Ridge is either a sunny winter day or during the summer. Hurricane Ridge is only open on weekends in the winter and is often closed for the month of April. Winter is of course much rainier, but you are visiting a place known for it’s rain so embrace it! If you don’t mind rain, winter is a great time to visit the rainforests and beaches. July and August have the sunniest weather and are the most crowded.

Watch out for: closed roads due to storm damage, crowds in July and August, picking up a Canadian cell phone signal (especially at Hurricane Ridge), long waits for the ferry with a car on Sunday afternoons returning to Seattle, deer on the Hurricane Ridge road

Driving Information: The fee for Olympic National Park is $30/vehicle. Make sure to check road conditions, especially in winter.

Electric Vehicle Charging: Fast charging is available in Port Angeles in multiple locations as well as Olympia. Level 2 chargers are available at the Lake Crescent Lodge and Lake Quinalt Lodge.

Getting there without a Car: Similar to Mt Rainier, Evergreen Escapes offers a wonderful day trip tour to Olympic National Park. This is the best way to see the park without a car.

#12 – Victoria, British Columbia

The Victoria Clipper departs from downtown Seattle and takes you straight to Victoria in under three hours, car free! If you brought your passport and want to enjoy a scenic boat journey with the possibility of seeing whales to a fun Canadian town then this trip is for you!

Travel time from Seattle : 2 hours, 45 minutes on the Victoria Clipper Ferry (passenger only)

• Afternoon Tea – pro tip: skip the pricey Empress Hotel (although you should pop in and check out the lobby) and have your afternoon tea at Butchart Gardens (reservations recommended) or have lunch and tea at Murchie’s on Government Street
• Walk around the inner harbor and parliament grounds – there’s lots of boat, float plane and human action in the inner harbor and the parliaments buildings are beautiful
• The rose garden beside the Empress Hotel
• Butchart Gardens ($20-$35 depending on the season)- Super popular and gorgeous Butchart Gardens is not to be missed! I’ve been to it in every season and there’s always something to see (I’m a particular fan of it during April and May with spring flowers)
• Stroll the shops on Government Street, especially Murchie’s Tea, Munro’s books and Roger’s Chocolates
• Royal BC Museum ($18) – collections of Northwest Coast art as well as traveling exhibits
• Martime Museum ($10) – all about the extensive maritime history of British Columbia

Best time of year: Similar to Seattle, Victoria has it’s sunniest weather in July and August. This is also a time when it’s extremely crowded with tourists. If you’re ok with a bit of rain, you can also save a ton of money by going to Victoria in the off season – the Victoria Clipper is much less expensive, so is Butchart Gardens and if you decide you need more time and you want to stay overnight, hotels are also much cheaper. As I said above, I like visiting when the spring flowers are at their peak in Butchart Gardens (April and May).

Watch out for: Big crowds and more expensive attractions and transportation in July and August, potential storms causing rougher water on the ferry crossing, the exchange rate, your cell phone rate while in Canada, forgetting your passport

Driving Information: You can take a car to Victoria, but I don’t recommend it for a day trip. The Victoria Clipper passenger ferry takes much less time than the car ferries that go from Vancouver or Port Angeles.

Whatever you decide to do, you can’t go wrong with any of these amazing day trips from Seattle! Have an amazing time exploring our beautiful region.

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27 Best Day Trips From Seattle

If you’re looking for a way to escape the hustle and bustle of Seattle , then look no further. This big city is surrounded by some incredibly beautiful and exciting places to explore.

We’ll be looking at some of the best day trips from Seattle that offer plenty of outdoor activities, gorgeous scenery, and unique city experiences.

So, grab your day pack, and let’s hit the road!

Table of Contents

Best Day Trips From Seattle Under 1.5 Hour

Let’s start with the locations that are under 1.5 hours’ drive from the city. These are perfect options if you only have half a day to go on an adventure.

1. Snoqualmie Falls

Snoqualmie Falls is a gorgeous waterfall located just a short distance from Seattle .

This 268-foot waterfall flows down into the Snoqualmie River and is one of Washington’s most popular attractions.

The best way to see the falls is from the observation decks that allow you to get up close to the awe-inspiring landmark. Not only will you see how spectacular the falls are, but you can also experience the thundering roar as the powerful water crashes down.

The surrounding area has plenty of opportunities to explore nature as well. Hike through the lush forest and along winding trails, or just spend some time near the falls enjoying the surrounding scenery.

2. Snohomish

Snohomish is a charming historic town known for its downtown area and quaint, small-town feel.

The town has a rich history, dating back to the late 1800s when it was a booming logging and farming community.

Today, you can still see many of the original historic buildings, including the Carnegie Library and the Blackman House Museum, during your visit.

As you wander downtown, you will find plenty of specialty shops and antique stores to browse. With a vibrant arts scene, you will also find plenty of art galleries and, if you time your visit right, possibly an art festival or live music event.

Just outside town, there is the beautiful countryside where you can take a scenic drive or go hiking. You can even fly over the rolling hills in a hot air balloon.

Tacoma is a fantastic city located in the heart of Washington.

If you love the outdoors, you’ll find tons of fun activities to do in Tacoma’s numerous parks. Go hiking or biking along the Schuster Trail, or take a leisurely stroll through Wright Park.

Want to cool off? Head to Point Defiance Park for a refreshing dip in Puget Sound. The park also has a zoo and aquarium, beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and a scenic drive.

On a visit to Tacoma, make sure you check out the Museum of Glass. It features glass artwork and a workshop where you can see artists creating their glass masterpieces.

4. Bainbridge Island

Bainbridge Island is a beautiful island located just a short ferry ride away from Seattle that has natural beauty, a delightful downtown area, and a laid-back island lifestyle.

One of the main attractions on the island is Bloedel Reserve, a 150-acre public garden featuring Japanese gardens, a reflection pool, and more.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, and other activities on the island. Consider taking a scenic walk on the waterfront trail or paddleboarding on the calm waters just off the island’s coast.

Or, if you have just come here to relax, spend some quality time at one of the island’s many beaches.

5. Bellevue

With stunning views of Lake Washington and the Cascade Mountains, Bellevue is full of splendid landscapes to wow you during a visit.

But it is also a thriving luxury city with high-end shopping and beautiful parks.

One popular place to stop during a visit is the Bellevue Botanical Garden. This free public garden features a variety of gardens, woodlands, and wetlands that will keep you busy exploring for hours.

If you would rather shop, head to the Bellevue Collection for luxury retailers and department stores. I recommend eating at  Black Bottle Restaurant.

6. Gig Harbor

Gig Harbor is a charming seaside town that offers you the chance to experience authentic small-town coastal America.

One of the best things to do is walk along the harbor. Head to the west end for spectacular views of Mount Rainier.

If you want to be more active, rent a kayak and take a spin in Puget Sound, visit the historic sites, or get some shopping done at the unique boutiques around town.

Explore the Harbor History Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the city. Every collection in the museum connects to the places and relates to the people of the Gig Harbor area.

Olympia is the capital of the state of Washington.

It’s a vibrant city with plenty to see and do, including historic architecture, museums, galleries, and more.

While in Olympia, you should visit the Washington State Capitol Campus. This area features the state capitol building, the governor’s mansion, and a variety of historic monuments and public art installations.

You can take a guided tour of the capitol building and learn about the history of the state and the workings of the government.

8. Vashon Island

Vashon Island is a beautiful, rural island located in Puget Sound.

Filled with incredible scenery, a charming small-town atmosphere, and a thriving arts and culture scene, there’s plenty to do on Vashon Island.

You can enjoy the island’s many parks and beaches, including the Maury Island Marine Park. This beautiful park features rocky shores, tide pools, and majestic views of Mount Rainier.

Similar to Tucson or Seattle , one of the best ways to sightsee is by bike. Plenty of paved trails wind through the island’s forests and farmland.

Or you can explore the island’s small towns and villages, each with its own unique character and charm.

9. Wallace Falls State Park

Wallace Falls State Park is near the Cascade Mountains. The park is home to an incredible 265-foot waterfall, which is the main attraction.

The park offers a variety of hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, with the most popular route being the 5-mile roundtrip moderate hike to Wallace Falls via Woody Trail.

The trail takes you through the forest and offers stunning views of the waterfall at various points along the way.

After you see the falls, stay and enjoy fishing or camping.

10. Skagit Valley

Skagit Valley is a fertile valley located north of Seattle.

The top feature of Skagit Valley is the Tulip Festival, which takes place in the spring and celebrates the blooming of the area’s tulip fields.

The festival offers a variety of events, including tulip farm tours, art shows, and a street fair. You can also take scenic drives through the valley to view the vibrant colors of the tulip fields.

If you can’t come in the spring, that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything for you to do here. Instead, spend time exploring the small towns that make up the area (like the one coming up next).

11. Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon is a beautiful city offering many options to explore its vibrant history and surrounding beauty.

Visit the local farms and wineries to get a feel for small-town living. Or head to the downtown historic district to explore its shops or grab a bite to eat.

You can also take in some local history with the Skagit Valley Museum or take a self-guided walking tour of the city’s historic buildings and homes.

12. Whidbey Island

Whidbey Island is the biggest island off the coast and makes for a wonderful day trip as there is so much to do.

Nature lovers will enjoy spending time on the island. You can explore Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve to see historic buildings, hike, and look for wildlife.

Or you can also hang out at one of the numerous beaches or rent a kayak or canoe to get out on the water.

We suggest you swing by Deception Pass State Park at the island’s northern tip. The park has plenty of activities, from hiking to boating to beachcombing.

Make sure to walk across the Deception Pass Bridge, which offers incredible views of the surrounding cliffs and forests. And if you are brave enough, look down the 180 feet to the water.

13. Poulsbo

Poulsbo has an incredible Scandinavian heritage, picturesque waterfront, and small-town charm. The town was founded by Norwegian immigrants in the late 1800s and has been shaped by its Scandinavian roots ever since.

Also called “Little Norway,” the town is filled with Scandinavian stylings for you to feast your eyes on. And the streets are lined with charming, colorful buildings that will transport you to another country.

You can find all sorts of shops here, from antiques and books to handmade crafts and jewelry.

There are also plenty of options for dining, including traditional Scandinavian cuisine, seafood, and more.

14. Bellingham

Bellingham is a vibrant college town making it a popular destination for visitors and students alike.

During a visit, hitting up the historic downtown area is a must. It has unique shops, restaurants, cafes, several historic landmarks, and Victorian-style homes.

The city is also big into the arts, with several art galleries, theaters, and music venues, as well as a variety of annual festivals and events.

And if all that isn’t enough, the city and surrounding area are home to more than 20 craft breweries with a range of styles and flavors, from traditional IPAs and stouts to experimental sours and fruit beers. Our personal fave is sour beers.

Seattle Day Trips Under 2.5 Hours

The following locations are a bit further but are no less interesting. It would be best to devote an entire day to these locations.

15. Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park covers over one million acres and is designated a UNESCO world heritage site and an International Biosphere Reserve thanks to its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife.

The park is home to several glaciers, alpine meadows, and old-growth forests for you to explore.

We found the Hoh Rainforest to be one of the most magical places in the park, with lush vegetation, mossy trees, and a network of hiking trails.

But if you prefer the beach, the park’s coastline stretches over 70 miles and is dotted with sea stacks and tidepools. Some of the most popular beaches include Rialto Beach and Ruby Beach.

Here are some things to do in Olympic National Park . 

16. Port Angeles

Situated along the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Port Angeles is home to the historic waterfront district, museums, and award-winning restaurants serving fresh seafood and local specialties.

Spend some time in the downtown area. It is full of cute shops to keep you occupied.

Or check out the historic landmarks, including the Elwha Dam Removal Site, which was the largest dam removal project in US history.

The city is also conveniently located to Olympic National Park, making it the perfect place to stay if you want to spend time inside the park.

17. Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park encompasses more than 200,000 acres and is centered around the iconic Mount Rainier, the highest peak in the state at 14,411 feet tall.

The park contains a wide range of ecosystems, including forests and dramatic glacial-carved peaks.

You can explore over 260 miles of hiking trails, which range from easy nature walks to strenuous climbs up the mountain.

Mount Rainier itself is the main draw for most individuals. The large active volcano is covered in snow and ice year-round and is surrounded by remarkable scenery.

In the spring, the park explodes with wildflowers.

18. Vancouver

Vancouver is situated in the southwestern region of Washington and is part of the Portland-Vancouver Metropolitan area.

While in the city, you can explore the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, a major fur trade center in the early 19th century. The site includes a reconstructed fort and several historic buildings.

Spend time visiting the beautiful parks in the area, including Vancouver Lake. Or stroll along the waterfront that runs with the Columbia River.

The nearby vicinity offers plenty of hiking trails and wildlife-watching opportunities thanks to its close proximity to Lewis and Clark National Historical Park and the Columbia River Gorge.

Sequim is a small city on the beautiful Olympic Peninsula. Known for its sunny weather and gorgeous landscapes, the city has incredible views of the Olympic Mountains, Strait of Juan de Fuca, and nearby Dungeness Spit.

Dungeness Spit is a 5.5-mile-long strip of sandy land extending into the strait.

You can hike along the spit and explore the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, home to various bird species and marine life. The area is popular for photography, swimming, and walking.

The city is famous for its lavender fields, which bloom in summer.

You can explore the many lavender farms in the area, which offer tours, lavender-infused gifts of all kinds, and even hand-picked bouquets for you to take home.

20. North Cascades National Park

At opposite ends from one another, the Grand Canyon is the 4th most visited national park, and down near the bottom, we have North Cascades National Park as the 4th LEAST visited.

But that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth your time just because it isn’t as popular as other parks in the US.

North Cascades National Park comprises some of Washington’s most rugged and wild terrain, filled with mountains, waterfalls, and meadows.

Visitors to this incredible park can enjoy spectacular views, including unparalleled mountain scenery. The park has several peaks over 8,000 feet, including Mount Skuksan, one of the most photographed mountains in the park.

The park has over 400 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. And if hiking isn’t your cup of tea, there is a scenic road that runs through the park for you to enjoy.

21. Port Townsend

Port Townsend is a charming Victorian seaport town on the northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula.

This picturesque destination is best known for its more than 100 Victorian-era buildings that date back to the late 1800s.

Stop by Fort Worden Historical State Park during your visit to the city.

The park holds a military installation used from the late 1800s until the mid-1900s. It contains several historic buildings, including a lighthouse.

22. Leavenworth

Similar to how Poulsbo is Scandinavian-inspired, Leavenworth is Bavarian-inspired.

Known as “Little Bavaria,” the city holds Bavarian-style architecture, which was implemented in the 1960s as part of a revitalization effort.

You will find buildings with peaked roofs, flower boxes, and murals, which create a charming and authentic Bavarian atmosphere.

The town celebrates its German heritage throughout the year with various festivals and events. Oktoberfest is a huge celebration and is considered one of the largest outside of Germany.

Best Day Trips From Seattle Under 3.5 Hours

Our final section of best day trips from Seattle includes places under a 3.5-hour drive. For some, this might be too long of a day as 7 hours in the car plus time at the activity can turn into a 12+ hour day.

We don’t mind long days like this when traveling as there is always limited time to see an area, but you can certainly turn them into a great overnight if you would rather.

23. Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument

Established in 1982 to protect the area affected by the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, this monument includes rivers, streams, and forests that were heavily damaged by the eruption.

The main focal point is, of course, Mount St Helens itself.

During a visit, you can explore the trails in the area, which have phenomenal views of the volcano and the surrounding landscape.

One of the most popular trails is the Harry’s Ridge Trail.

At the monument, you will also have many opportunities to learn about the geological forces at play that caused it to erupt and how nature is beginning to recover from the devastating consequences.

24. Long Beach

Long Beach is situated on the Long Beach Peninsula, a narrow land strip separating the Pacific Ocean from Willapa Bay.

It is famous for its, you guessed it, LONG beach. It stretches over 28 miles and is perfect for walking, swimming, and other water activities.

Because it is a tourist hotspot, the town has plenty of restaurants, shops, and even an amusement park and boardwalk to keep you busy.

We suggest stopping by the World Kite Museum, which features exhibits and displays about the history of kite flying and its cultural significance worldwide.

You can also participate in kite-flying demonstrations and workshops or watch the colorful kites fly high above the beach.

25. San Juan Island

San Juan Spring flowers by James Mead Maya

San Juan Island is one of the largest islands in the San Juan archipelago in Puget Sound.

People flock to this island for nature and the chance to spot whales.

The island is home to a large population of orcas and is one of the best places in the world to see them in the wild. You can view them from various viewpoints on the island or book a boat tour to see them up close from the water.

In addition to orcas, you may also spot humpback whales, minke whales, and other marine mammals.

While on the island, enjoy the hiking trails, which offer incredible views of the island’s forests, beaches, and coastline.

26. Yakima Valley

The Yakima Valley is home to wineries and vineyards, making it a popular spot for wine connoisseurs.

The region has over 90 wineries, producing various types, including chardonnay, merlot, and cabernet sauvignon. You can participate in wine tastings, vineyard tours, and other wine-related activities, as well as enjoy the beautiful views of the valley.

Besides vineyards, agriculture and farming are also prominent in the valley.

The region produces a variety of fruits and vegetables, including apples, pears, cherries, and hops for beer. You can explore the local farms and orchards and even pick your own produce during harvest.

27. Orcas Island

Orcas Island is the largest of the San Juan Islands and has beautiful natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and adorable small towns.

On a visit, we recommend stopping by Moran State Park. The park has plenty of hiking opportunities as well as forests and lakes for you to explore. Enjoy the island’s stunning scenery while fishing, boating, or doing other outdoor activities.

Keep an eye out for wildlife while on the island. You can often spot bald eagles, deer, and other animals in the forests and fields. And, like San Juan Island, you have a high probability of seeing orcas in the coastal waters.

Conclusion – 27 Best Day Trips From Seattle

Seattle is an incredible city with plenty of attractions, but sometimes it’s nice to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Whether you’re interested in hiking in the mountains, exploring charming small towns, or sampling world-class wine, there’s something for everyone within easy reach of Seattle.

From the rugged beauty of Mount Rainier to the quaint streets of Port Townsend, the region’s diverse destinations offer a chance to experience Washington’s culture and picturesque landscapes.

So, if you have a free day, definitely hop in the car and take one of the best day trips from Seattle. We know it will be an experience you won’t soon forget!

Guest Post by Jenny & John of Traveling In Focus

Seattle City Guide: What to do, Where to Eat, and Where to Stay

Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle 

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A Day in Seattle: What You Can’t Miss (Perfect Itinerary for a Single Day)

Posted on Published: September 27, 2021  - Last updated: January 5, 2024

This fun, iconic city in the Pacific Northwest is so much fun you could spend a week exploring the area. But what if you only have a day in Seattle?

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

There’s a ton to see in Seattle in a short amount of time, especially in downtown. You’ve likely seen Pike Place Market over and over again, but the city has so much more to offer! This guide walks you through exactly what to do in Seattle for 1 day, including how to get around, where to stay and other insider tips.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, family or solo, this city will fascinate you and leave you hungering for more than a day in Seattle. You’ll want to come back , that’s for sure!

👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here’s the  best Pike Place Market food tour . A must-do for first-time visitors!

Day trip to Seattle

If you’re heading into Seattle for the day from nearby Portland, Vancouver or anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest, I highly recommend to hit the road early to make the most of your day ! Otherwise if you can stay overnight at least one night, that will give your more time to explore this great city.

You may be flying into Seattle to spend some time exploring the popular Mount Rainier National Park , heading on an epic road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway or you may even have a full day layover before hitting the beach in Kauai, Hawaii .

Regardless of what’s bringing you into the city, this is an action-packed itinerary for your one day in Seattle .

This guide walks you through the best sights in the downtown area. You’ll be able to see a lot on foot, before needing wheels to visit a few other spots near downtown. Then, we’ll head to West Seattle to finish off the day.

Get ready for some awesome sights!

Map for your day in Seattle

If you’re a visual person, use the map below to see where the top sights and activities to experience Seattle in a day. This guide will walk you through each sight or activity, along with how to travel between them.

How to get around the city

If you’re wondering how to get around for your one day in Seattle, there’s good news! Many of the best sights are within walking distance of each other.

If you have a car, you’ll want to park it for most of the day while you walk to attractions, food and activities. It’s nice to have a car for a few different areas within this guide.

And by the way if you need to rent a car to go beyond the city, I highly recommend the discounted rates on Discover Cars . I routinely save 10% – 30% on rentals (using the most reputable car carriers)!

Alternatively, you can use ride share like Lyft or Uber , which is what I recommend for a few parts of this itinerary.

There’s also public transportation and a great monorail system in Seattle . If you’re staying in Seattle you could consider this to transport downtown and a couple places on this itinerary if you don’t have a vehicle. But since you only have one day in Seattle, the timing is a bit trickier using public transportation, so just keep that in mind!

A day in Seattle

Alright let’s get to it! The guide below will walk you through how to see Seattle in one day. And because it’s nice to have options, you’ll get alternative recommendations so you can customize your Seattle itinerary based on what you want to do .

And for the purposes of seeing as much as you can in a day, this guide assumes you’ll start the day early in Seattle. If you’re flying in or planning to get in mid-morning, adjust as needed.

Let’s dive in!

Visit the original Starbucks

Estimated time: 5 – 30 minutes Schedule: 8:00 – 9:00am

Regardless if you love Starbucks coffee or not, it’s an icon in Seattle and worth a visit. Stopping at the original Starbucks location in Downtown Seattle will set you up good for the day, as most other things are walkable from here.

While the atmosphere (and line at the door) might reflect nostalgia, the drinks inside are what you can find at most other Starbucks locations. So keep your regular order and enjoy the history!

Fun fact: the actual original Starbucks was located at 2000 Western Avenue from 1971–1976 and moved to its current location. This is currently the oldest operating Starbucks.

Location: 1912 Pike Place, Seattle, WA 98101

Pike Place Market

Estimated time: 1 – 3 hours Schedule: 9:00 – 11:00am

I mean, obviously the market is going to be on your list, especially if it’s your first time to Seattle ! And honestly, even if it’s not your first visit – there’s so much to see, do and eat at Pike Place Market that it’s worth visiting over and over again.

Wanna see flying fish at the fish market? How about watching cheese made by hand? And how about finding the most gorgeous bouquet of flowers for less than $10?

It’s all at the Pike Place Market!

The best time to go to Pike Place Market is right when it opens at 9am. Although some businesses and merchants will still be opening, you’ll see far less crowds.

You could spend an hour here or an entire day soaking up the sights, smells and tastes of Pike Place Market. So since you’re crunched for time on this day trip to Seattle, these are a few of the highlights…

Book now: Pike Place Market food tour!

Best things to do at Pike Place Market

• Visit the original Pike Place Fish Market . Watch them throw fish back and forth to each other. Or ship some fresh back home!
• Shop the market. Flowers, jewelry, home decor and a whole lot more!
• Go to Beechers Handmade Cheese . Made on-site and delicious. You’ll usually find a line out the door.
• See the mascot, touch the pig . And if you have spare change, donate to the cause . Two bronze pigs hang out at the market and collect change for charity. More about Rachel and Billie here .
• Grab produce to go. It’s fresh and local. And if you’re hitting the road after your day in Seattle, grab some produce for car snacks.

Location: 86 Pike Place, Seattle, WA 98101 (address to the fish market)

Seattle Great Wheel (for epic sights during a day in Seattle)

Estimated time: 1 hour Schedule: 11:00am – 12:00pm

Right down the street from Pike Place Market is Pier 57, home to the Seattle Great Wheel . It’s a walkable area with scenic views of Elliott Bay.

A ride on the Ferris wheel will show you the city, and is one of the top things to do in Seattle in one day! See the city’s skyline, ships and boats at the marina, and on clear days a great view of Mount Rainier.

Perfect for all ages, The Seattle Great Wheel is the largest Ferris wheel on the west coast at 175 feet tall. It’s got to be on your list of things to do in Seattle with kids !

Buy tickets in advance or at the ticket counter to keep on scheduled to be sure to see everything you want in a day in Seattle. In the peak of summer, on weekends and holidays expect a line at the big wheel, as it’s one of Seattle’s top tourist attractions. (Another reason to reserve your time in advance!)

Location: Miners Landing, 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101

Alternative: Seattle Art Museum

Estimated time: 1 – 2 hours Schedule: 11:00am – 12:00pm

If you’ve got a fear of heights or just prefer art over rides, this one’s for you. The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is located in downtown and in a building that’s sleek and contemporary, and as creative as the art within it . It’s a multi-level space with a permanent art collection and often fascinating rotating exhibits.

An important part of this museum is the focus on a wide variety of cultural and ethnic art, including Native American, Asia, Mediterranean and Australian Aboriginal collections. The SAM also features a library and restaurant to check out while you’re there.

Pro tip: buy tickets in advance! As of the time of this publication, the museum only accepts reservations for guests.

Art lovers could easily spend an afternoon at the SAM, but with only one day in Seattle, it’s time to move on!

Location: 1300 First Ave, Seattle, WA 98101

Lunch at Pike Place Market (the perfect spot to eat on this Seattle itinerary)

Estimated time: 1 hour Schedule: 12:00 – 1:00pm

Return to Pike Place Market for lunch because there’s just so many incredible restaurants to try, you absolutely must eat here ! Grab a famous Flagship Sandwich from Beecher’s Handmade Cheese and eat it at the picnic tables overlooking the bay.

Or try one of the many restaurants in Post Alley. From Italian to Thai, Irish to Mexican, there’s something for everyone here. A few other favorite spots to try are…

Best lunch spots Pike Place Market

• A bowl of delicious chowder at Pike Place Chowder
• Enjoy a classic American style yeeros at Mr. D’s Greek Delicacies
• Farm-to-table cuisine at The Pink Door
• Sit outdoors and people watch while enjoying delightful Pizza and Pasta Bar
• Local and affordable seafood at Jack’s Fish Spot Seafood Bar

Oh, and be sure to grab some sweet treats to go from Three Girls Bakery , The Confectional (my favorite) or Joe Chocolate Co .

If you really want to get into the food scene in Seattle, be sure to check into the best Pike Place Market food tours . Yum!!

Olympic Sculpture Park

Estimated time: up to 1 hour Schedule: 1:00 – 2:00pm

Walk off all that food by heading down to the Olympic Sculpture Park . Just a few blocks away from Pike Place Market is this sculpture park. It’s surprisingly serene and relaxing considering the hustle and bustle of the city and the nearby bay. It’s also got great views of the entire area, perfect for seeing Seattle in 1 day!

Walk among the giant sculptures and absorb the city sights all around you. Made with different types and styles of art, the sculpture garden is fun to look at for all ages. In fact, it reminded me of the sculpture park in Minneapolis, Minnesota which I visited as part of a Midwest road trip .

Bonus: there’s a glass pavilion on site with public restrooms. It’s free, although they take donations if you’d like to donate a couple bucks to keep the place clean and running.

Location: 2901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code SSST.

From here, you can take the Seattle Center Monorail , drive a rental car or take a ride share to your next destination…

Space Needle

Estimated time: 1 hour Schedule: 2:00 – 3:00pm

It’s an iconic landmark in Seattle since 1962, and one that’s recognized all over the world!

If this is one of your top things you’re most excited to see, then riding to the top of the Space Needle is a must! It’s highly recommended to buy tickets in advance to reserve your time – especially if you’re only spending a day in Seattle you’re crunched for time!

Once at the top, the views are spectacular. You’ll get 360 degree views of the city, Mount Rainier plus the Cascades and Olympic mountain ranges, all from 605 feet above ground!

If you only kind of want to see it, then simply driving by or walking the grounds is an option, too. You can get some fun photos and see it up close without spending the time to ride to the top.

Location: 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109

Chihuly Garden and Glass (a must-see for one day in Seattle)

Estimated time: 1-2 hours Schedule: 3:00 – 4:00pm

Located right near the Space Needle is the Chihuly Garden and Glass . It’s one of the most unique things to do in Seattle, and a fun stop for all ages.

The works from famous glass artist Dale Chihuly, this glass museum is full of vibrant colors and designs, all breathtakingly spectacular. There are 6 rooms inside the exhibit and an outdoor garden to stroll. There’s even a theater to watch how the exquisite designs are made.

You could easily devote an afternoon here, but since you’re only spending a day in Seattle, be aware of your time as you explore this place!

Pro tip: be sure to listen to the free audio tour on your phone as you walk the museum and see the pieces.

Location: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109

Quick note: if you’re planning to see the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden Glass and more attractions, I highly recommend the Seattle CityPASS . You’ll save up to 46% off admission prices!

Estimated time: up to 30 minutes Schedule: 4:00 – 4:30pm

Next we’re going to venture a little further from downtown. If you don’t have a vehicle, I recommend taking a ride share to get to Kerry Park.

Kerry Park is a spectacular spot in Seattle to see the city skyline . From here, you’ll be able to view the Space Needle, downtown, waterfront park, the bay and on a clear day, Mount Rainier in the background.

It’s one of the best views in all of Seattle, and can be seen quickly or you could spend a bit more time to sit and relax.

The park itself isn’t very big and doesn’t have a lot of parking, so be prepared to walk a little. If you’re traveling with kids, watch out for the drop-off and hill at the lookout as it’s steep.

Location: 211 W Highland Dr, Seattle, WA 98119

This next spot is a good one, but no where near downtown. You’ll need a car or ride share to get here, and plan to allow at least 20 minutes travel time.

Estimated time: 1-2 hours Schedule: 5:00 – 6:00pm

Alki Beach in Seattle is one of the best sand beaches in the whole area! Nestled right on the Elliott Bay, the waves are fierce enough to crash on the beach. Water temperatures peak at about 57 degrees in the summer, so not very many people swim, even on the warmest of days.

The beach is deep enough to sit on the sand and enjoy the water and waves. There’s also sand volleyball courts set up and on most weekends you’ll find teams playing volleyball.

The area is built up with steps for sitting on, so you don’t actually have to get sandy if you don’t want to, perfect if you only have a day in Seattle and don’t want to worry about bringing extra beach gear. By the way, if you love these kinds of pebble coastal beaches, head further north to experience the best of North Vancouver Island , including Cape Scott Provincial Park, Grant Bay, Malcolm Island and more.

There are a few palm trees sprinkled throughout the area. It’s not quite like the gorgeous beaches of Aruba or as warm as Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico , but it will certainly do for any beach lover!

Location: 2665 Alki Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116

Duke’s Seafood (a favorite during a day in Seattle)

Estimated time: 1 hour Schedule: 6:00 – 7:00pm

Okay, when you’re in Seattle, you absolutely must eat at Duke’s Seafood ! With several locations to choose from, you’ll likely be close to one. Especially if you follow this guide on how to spend one day in Seattle!

They’re known for…. well, everything! From the fish and chips, crab ‘un’ cakes, bread bowl clam chowder (served in 4 size options), you’ll find really good seafood at Duke’s.

And can I share something else about Duke’s Seafood? They have incredible margaritas! As a margarita lover, this means a lot to have the perfect marg alongside fish tacos. I mean, their margaritas are right up there with the margs in Old Town San Diego – and that’s saying a lot !

Duke’s Seafood has locations in Alki, Bellevue, Lake Union, Green Lake, Ruston Way, Kent Station and Southcenter. It’s some of the best seafood in Tacoma , Seattle and the surrounding area!

Location: 2516 Alki Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116 (at Alki Beach)

This is the last stop on this Seattle itinerary, but I encourage you to check out the bonus activities below and incorporate some into your day.

If you love quickly visiting a city and seeing the top sights, you’ll definitely want to add spending one day in Rome to your bucket list. The incredible history and architecture in the city is simply unbeatable.

Bonus activity: visit the flagship REI location

Swap this activity out for another on this list, or squeeze it in before heading to Alki Beach.

Estimated time: up to 1 hour

So many cool, founding companies in Seattle, right? You’ll want to drive or ride share over to REI, as it’s a bit off from downtown, located in the Cascade neighborhood. And to be honest, you’ll probably miss it if you didn’t know it was there!

The flagship REI store is disguised under heavy foliage, right in the city! Waterfalls and lush, tree-lined paths welcome you as you walk to the front door . It’s a welcome change from the concrete city that surrounds REI.

If you’re an outdoor lover (like I am), then make time to visit REI on your one day in Seattle! Read more about the history of REI here .

And by the way, if you enjoy hiking, here’s a few guides to inspire future travels!

• 8 Incredible Hikes in Glacier National Park
• 10 Canyonlands National Parks that Promise Epic Views
• 30 Best Hiking Trails for Beginners (all across the USA)
• Gorgeous Hiking and More in Dillon, CO
• 12 Top-rated Hikes in Arches National Park
• 16 Scenic Hikes in the Midwest You’ll Love

Anyway, grab any gear you’ve been eyeing while you’re here!

Location: 222 Yale Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109

Day trip to Seattle: additional things to do

It’s nice to have options, isn’t it? Well just in case one of the things above isn’t your cuppa tea, here are some alternative ideas for how to fill your time!

One day in Seattle: more ideas

• Seattle Aquarium . Be sure to book in advance to witness sea otters, seals, octopus, a variety of birds, fish and more!
• Underground tour of Seattle. After a massive fire in 1889, the current city was rebuilt above the old one. Touring past storefronts and sidewalks through interconnecting tunnels underground is a fun, unique way to see into the city’s unique history.
• Walkable Waterfront Park. This area includes 20 piers to eat, relax and enjoy the sights. Many whale watching tours start from this area, too.
• Museum of Pop Culture. If you’re a pop culture fan, you’ll love this place! You could spend just an hour seeing the highlights or a whole day exploring everything music from Disney to Pearl Jam. This is also one of the best things to do in winter in Seattle !
• Freemont Troll. A weirdly fun attraction just about 15 minutes drive north of downtown Seattle. It’s a photo op that kids and adults will love. Kind of reminds me of the Breckenridge Troll in Colorado!
• Market Theater Gum Wall . If you’re into germy things, anyways! 😆 Located in an alley under Pike Place Market, feel free to leave your mark…er, gum, here.
• Waterfall Garden Park in Pioneer Square . This lovely gem is a beautiful, serene spot in a busy city! I love that you can hear it as you drive by! And fun fact, it’s located at the founding location of UPS!
• Gas Works Park. A huge park built on a former coal gasification plant. It’s a fun spot for relaxing, picnicking, kayaking and enjoying views of Seattle across the water.

Alright do you have your plan set for your day trip to Seattle? Next let’s go over a few more details for your time in the city.

Where to stay in Seattle

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Seattle to take full advantage of your full day of exploring, I got you!

To stay close to the action, you’ll want to get accommodations in downtown, Belltown, Lower Queen Anne or the Cascade areas. Here’s a few places below that are within these areas…

Places to stay in Seattle:

• Seattle Marriott Waterfront , for best views of the bay
• The Charter Seattle , closest to the action
• Mayflower Park Hotel , historic hotel in prime location
• Belltown Inn , affordable luxury
• Vacation rental properties in Seattle for every budget

I like staying in hotels and vacation rental properties, and using a search site like Booking.com allows you to search both at the same time. And bonus – it’s one of the more affordable travel sites out there!

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

What to pack for Seattle

Real quick, before wrapping up this Seattle itinerary, let’s talk about things that will make your day exploring this city even better.

• Comfy shoes . Spending a day in Seattle, you’re going to be walking a lot and you don’t want to be uncomfortable. Consider versatile travel shoes perfect for the city.
• Over the shoulder bag or purse. The most convenient way to hold your money while exploring, plus a larger bag supports small shopping purchases, too! Make sure you get one with a zipper so it’s more difficult for pickpocketers to take advantage of you.
• Rain jacket . Let’s face it, Seattle is known for rain. If you’re visiting anytime except during the peak of summer, you could face drizzly rain. Your day will still be awesome, but packing a jacket might make you more comfortable. This is my favorite lightweight jacket I took to Seattle.
• Mace. As a traveling female, I always carry mace with me! Just note if you’re flying in you’ll need to pack it in your checked luggage.

A day in Seattle (a recap)

Seattle is a fun, vibrant city that is fun to explore. Between the historic charm, sweeping views of the water and surrounding mountains and activities for all ages, Seattle is full of exciting things to do in any amount of time.

Here’s a recap!

One day in Seattle:

• 8:00am Visit the original Starbucks
• 9:00am Pike Place Market
• 11:00am Seattle Great Wheel or Seattle Art Museum
• 12:00pm Lunch at Pike Place Market
• 1:00pm Olympic Sculpture Park
• 2:00pm Space Needle
• 3:00pm Chihuly Garden and Glass
• 4:00pm Kerry Park
• 5:00pm Alki Beach
• 6:00pm Dinner at Duke’s Seafood

Add in a few bonuses or alternative spots above, and you’ve got your customized Seattle itinerary! Have fun exploring this city!

Related content to read next: Ultimate Guide to Skyline Trail Mount Rainier 22 Best Hikes in Mount Rainier NP: Cool Trails You’ll Love 33 Amazing Spring Break Ideas on a Budget 28 Absolutely Best National Parks to Visit in Summer 26 Places to Visit in Fall in the USA You’ll Love 30 Incredibly Warm Winter Vacations in the US

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Suvarna Arora

Wednesday 6th of October 2021

It sounds like Seattle is a nice place to visit.

simplyjolayne

Monday 4th of October 2021

We did a scavenger hunt in Seattle the last time we were there and it was awesome. We saw lots of things we wouldn't have otherwise known about, ie., the gum wall!

Oh that sounds like an awesome experience! A great idea anywhere, but I bet it was really fun to see Seattle while doing a scavenger hunt.

Sunday 3rd of October 2021

So many fun and cool things to do in Seattle. This is a perfect one-day itinerary!

Holly Lavender

Saturday 2nd of October 2021

I love Seattle, Kerry Park is honestly has the best views! I actually ended up there trying to find the Grey's Anatomy house haha.

Haha that's awesome!🤣 I agree Kerry Park is a must!

Katie Diederichs

I LOVE Seattle! It seems I find new things to do there on every trip (and I've been there many times!). One of my favorite things about the city is how close it is to nature. Oh, and the amazing food scene! Great tips for how to spend a day in Seattle!

Yessssss Katie! So many great things about the city that make you want to see more! Thanks for hanging out on the blog today :)

Let's be friends! Sign up receive our monthly newsletter with updates and new in-depth guides. 

How to Plan a Day Trip to Bainbridge Island From Seattle

If you’re looking for an incredible day trip from Seattle that is accessible – you don’t necessarily need a car – and full of interesting things to do, see, eat, and drink, you’re in the right place. A day trip to Bainbridge Island, which includes a short ferry ride across the Puget Sound, is undoubtedly one of the best day trips from Seattle .

In this guide, I’ll give you everything you need to know for a memorable day trip to Bainbridge Island, including how to get there without a car, where to find the best coffee and brunch, and where to wander. 

One of the most spectacular views of Seattle and the surrounding area comes from the ferry ride from Seattle to Bainbridge Island. Looking east from the ferry, you’ll see the Seattle skyline. To the west, the Olympic mountains. And turn south on a clear day and you might just spot snow-capped Mount Rainier. 

It’s a dazzling ferry ride, and the town of Winslow, where the ferry lands, is full of hidden gems for foodies and shopping-lovers. It’s something that you should try to make room for in your Seattle Itinerary. 

If that sounds good to you, read on for everything you need to know to plan the perfect Bainbridge Island day trip!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How to Plan the Perfect Bainbridge Island Day Trip from Seattle

First, some logistics for visiting Bainbridge Island from Seattle. 

How to get to Bainbridge Island From Seattle

To get to Bainbridge Island from Seattle, you’ll want to take the ferry operated by Washington State Ferries, from Downtown Seattle.

Specifically from the Seattle Ferry Terminal at Pier 52, which is several blocks south of Pike Place Market. Here it is on Google Maps.  

Yes, technically you can drive around and avoid the cost of the ferry. Given the cost of gas, and the two hours or so it’ll take you to do that, we wouldn’t recommend it.

Plus, the ferry ride is truly spectacular on a clear day, where you’ll have amazing panoramic views of Mount Rainier to the south, the city to the east, Mount Baker to the north, and the Olympics due west.

It’s a lovely way to get out to Bainbridge.

How to Get to the Seattle Ferry Terminal

To get to the ferry terminal on foot from Downtown Seattle, walk to Pike Place Market, find the stairs or elevator down to the waterfront (pretend you’re going to the Great Wheel), and walk south down Alaskan Way until you reach Pier 52.

If you’re staying elsewhere, like Capitol Hill, Fremont or Ballard, you’ll probably want to take a Lyft . 

When Does the Bainbridge Island Ferry Come?

The ferry runs roughly every 60-90 minutes as of mid-2022. You can find the most up to date ferry schedule here .

How Much Does the Bainbridge Island Ferry Cost?

The crossing will take you about 35 minutes, and without a car costs a whopping $9.25 per adult, and $4.60 for kids. So a Bainbridge Island day trip is a super affordable option in Seattle.

If you bring your car, it’s going to cost you $16.40 (includes the driver), plus the walk on fare for everyone else in the car.

The fees are here if you want to take a look. 

If you are walking on, you’ll be happy to know that you only have to pay the toll one way (on the ferry TO Bainbridge). If you have a car, you have to pay for the car both ways, but the extra passengers are free coming back to Seattle from Bainbridge.

For example, a full-day Bainbridge Island excursion for a family of four (two kids, two adults, one car) would cost $34.85 on the way there, and $16.40 on the way back for a total of $51.25.  

Make sure to spend part of the trip outside on the deck of the ferry to soak in the spectacular views.

Do you Need a Car to Explore Bainbridge Island?

Nope! The downtown area of Winslow, which is where the ferry drops you off, is super accessible on foot – it’s a half mile from the ferry dock. 

That being said, some of the best parts of Bainbridge Island are further out, like the breathtaking Bloedel Reserve , and having a car will make it easier to get to. 

How to Get Around Bainbridge Island Without a Car

If you don’t have a car, there are other transportation options for getting around Bainbridge Island , like renting a bike, shuttle services, and buses. 

A Perfect Itinerary for a Day Trip to Bainbridge Island from Seattle

Here’s the perfect way to spend a day on Bainbridge Island, whether you’re local and looking to escape the city, or you’re visiting and want a break from the city before getting back to the rest of your Seattle itinerary .

If you want to spend a full day, sunrise to sunset, I have some recommendations on what to do with more time, too. 

I’m going to assume you don’t have a car.

If you do have a car, add either Bloedel Reserve or a loop to Rockaway Beach and Fort Ward Park to the itinerary, which are well worth seeing on a Bainbridge Island day trip.

I’d probably only do one or the other, but if you have the time and energy, both are great options for a stroll through the lush greenery that Bainbridge Island seems to have all over the place.

Keep in mind that the Bloedel Reserve is pricey, and you need to make timed entry reservations in advance.

We’d probably recommend the driving loop to Rockaway and Fort Ward State Park outside of the spring and early summer, when Bloedel is extra special.

9:00 am: Catch the Ferry to Bainbridge Island

Get up early and catch the 9:35 am ferry from the Seattle Ferry Terminal.

You’ll want to make sure to get there a half an hour early (especially if you have a car), because they do fill up on busy weekends at prime time. 

When you board the ferry, whether by car or on foot, head straight up to the sun deck, which is the third floor on top of the ferry.

Head to the side of the ferry that’s facing the city (preferably on the right side of the ferry if you’re facing back towards Seattle) for the best views of the city and Mount Rainier.

During the ferry ride, make your way to the front of the ferry facing Bainbridge for mind-blowing views of the snow-capped Olympics (at least outside of August and September) dead ahead, towering over Bainbridge Island.

When you get to the island, walk 10-15 minutes up the street into the quaint downtown area. 

10:30 am : Breakfast and Coffee Time!

Turn left on Winslow Way E from the ferry and stroll through the downtown area. Don’t worry, you’ll be back!

Your first stop is Blackbird Bakery , which is the premier bakery on the island (although the line outside Coquette Bakeshop says that it might be a worthy alternative). Blackbird has all sorts of handmade pastries – including croissants and pain au chocolat that they make in-house.

I, of course, have Celiac Disease, which precludes me from having any gluten whatsoever, so I enlisted my mom and Alysha to sample the pastries here. They chose the orange sweet roll (like a cinnamon roll with orange glaze) and the savory croissant, and they enjoyed both.

They also have Herkimer Coffee from Seattle, which is what I enjoyed here. If you’re looking for something a little more filling, their huge slices of deep-dish quiche looked amazing.

There’s a nice little parklet next door with a bunch of tables and chairs where you can enjoy your pastries.

From there, walk through the main strip of Winslow and take a left on Madison Ave S. You’ll end at Pegasus Coffee , who has the best coffee in town.

Grab your drink of choice and take a seat to savor it. Or, if you’re in a hurry and it’s a nice day, get it to go and head over to Waterfront Park to admire the views of the harbor and beyond. 

One thing I discovered on our last trip to Bainbridge is the fact that they have gluten free and vegan donuts here from Dude’s Donuts in Port Orchard, AND they have separate tongs to grab them from their dedicated gluten free boxes. Pistachio Lime was amazing. A great treat for my gluten free friends!

11:45 am : Exploring Downtown Bainbridge

Remember that cute little downtown strip you walked past? Now it’s time to explore that little slice of heaven. 

If you’re in town on a Saturday, don’t miss the Bainbridge Island Farmers Market , which is a few blocks north of Winslow Way. It’s small, but it’s a great showcase for the wide variety of produce that’s grown on Bainbridge.

A must-stop for book lovers (and pretty much everyone, I guess) is Eagle Harbor Books . Spend a few minutes wandering the shelves. If you see something you like, buy it! SUPPORT LOCAL BOOKSTORES (not Amazon).

Next, time for some shopping. You won’t want to miss Millstream , which specializes in Pacific Northwest inspired art, gifts, and souvenirs. This was BY FAR the best stop we made for shopping.

Another great stop is Salt House Mercantile , who carry Farmhouse Pottery (the most gorgeous pottery we’ve ever seen) all the way from Vermont!

1:00 pm: Lunch at Proper Fish

There are a couple of good food options in this area, but I want you to ignore all the others and head directly for Proper Fish .

Independently, my mom and Alysha – who were the critics here due to the whole gluten thing – both claimed that these were the best fish and chips they’ve ever had.

They use fresh fish, they serve them in newspaper, and they serve it with sides of fat fries, tartar sauce, and mushy peas (a mash up of peas and mint that Brits serve alongside their fish and chips).

Oh, and they’re gigantic. Originally, Alysha wanted the fish sandwich, but I made the audible to order the fish and chips after seeing them come out of the kitchen while I was in line.

If you have a car, we’d highly, HIGHLY recommend grabbing them to go and taking them to nearby Rockaway Beach , where you’ll have a nice secluded beach and patch of grass with a view of Seattle to enjoy while you eat.

That’s what we did, and it was magical.

2:30 pm: We All Scream for Ice Cream

For post-lunch ice cream, head to Mora Iced Creamery for the best ice cream on the island. I say “best’ because we tried the other place in town, and this was the clear winner.

The lavender ice cream in particular was the winner. They’ll use a clean scoop and cup if you need to eat gluten free – make sure to ask nicely. 

3:00 pm: Grab a Pre-Ferry Drink

Before catching the ferry home, grab a drink (or three) in town before making your way towards the ferry terminal.

Remember – if you’re driving onto the ferry, you need to show up at the terminal ~20-30 minutes early to make sure you get on the ferry! Make sure to leave yourself enough time to catch the 3:55 ferry home, which will get you home in time for dinner.

For wine … head to Eleven Winery’s tasting room along Winslow Way. Or, if you’ve got a car, you should head to the actual winery a few miles away on Bainbridge Island. 

For beer lovers … head to Bainbridge Brewing’s Alehouse for some craft beer made on Bainbridge Island. If you have a car, their brewery is a few miles north along state highway 305 and is worth a visit. They have a couple of rotating taps for cider AND gluten free beer (in cans) for my Celiac friends. Plus some local wines, if neither beer nor cider are your thing.

3:55 pm : Catch the Ferry Home to Seattle

That’s it! Head back to the Ferry Terminal (same one you arrived at) and take the ferry back to Seattle. 

Want to stay longer?

Here are some other fun activities to add to your Bainbridge Island day trip. 

• Previously mentioned Bloedel Reserve or Fort Ward Park – both are great for a short walk through the beautiful greenery. 
• Rent a bike at Bike Barn and take a ride to picturesque Rockaway Beach for views of the Seattle skyline. 
• Check out a real life working farm at Heyday Farms – a 25 mile plot of farm land that was reinvigorated a decade ago. Now, you can stay the weekend there, take a cooking class, or just buy sustainably-raised meat from them. It’s a cool project that’s well worth a visit, and if you want to make it an overnight trip, see if they have any availability to stay on the farm . You can have dinner there on Thursday and Friday evening if you’re looking for a more upscale, farm-to-table meal. 
• Go beyond the tasting rooms in Winslow and explore the plethora of wineries on Bainbridge Island . But not too much, because you need to drive. 
• Check out the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art , where you’ll find exhibits featuring local artists. Admission is free!
• Taste the apple-based distilled spirits, like gin and amaro, at High Side Distilling . You can even do a tour of the distillery! More into whiskey (I’m not)? Head to Bainbridge Distillers instead . 

Make it a romantic overnight trip! Bring a car and stay at the Marshall Suites in Winslow, or one of the many stunning Airbnbs on the island (like this stunning new guesthouse – so much natural light!)

That’s all I’ve got for you on planning an amazing day trip to Bainbridge Island.

But I have tons of other posts on Seattle for you to read while you’re here. I grew up in Seattle, lived there for 15+ years, and still have dreams of moving back in the not-so-distant future.

I put together a complete guide to spending 3 days in Seattle , and a guide on where to stay in Seattle with the 3 coolest neighborhoods – all according to me, a former Seattle local.

Discover other amazing day trips in my guide to the best day trips from Seattle .

More to Explore in Washington State

Heading to the great state of Washington? Here are some other posts you might like.

• The Best Things to Do in Seattle: A Local’s Complete Guide (coming SOON!)
• Where to Stay in Seattle: 7 Amazing Areas to Stay
• How to Plan an Amazing Weekend in Seattle (3 Day Itinerary)
• Two Days in Seattle: The Best of Seattle in 48 Hours
• One Day in Seattle: How to See The Best of Seattle in a Day
• The 8 Best Day Trips from Seattle: A Complete Guide
• 10 Amazing Weekend Getaways from Seattle: A Complete Planning Guide
• Where to Find the Best Coffee in Seattle: 15+ Amazing Seattle Coffee Shops
• Gluten Free Seattle: A Complete Travel Guide for Celiacs
• How to Plan an Amazing Washington State Road Trip
• The 19 Best Airbnbs in Washington State
• 33 Incredible Cabins in Washington State
• 12 Amazing Easy Hikes in Washington State for Beginners
• How to Plan an Amazing Olympic National Park Itinerary
• What to Do in Leavenworth, Washington: A Complete Guide
• What to Do on San Juan Island: A Complete Visitors Guide
• The Best Things to Do on Orcas Island: Complete Planning Guide
• The Best Things to Do on Vashon Island: A Complete Day Trip Guide

Hungry (I always am) for more travel inspiration, guides, and tips ?

First, connect with me on Instagram to follow along on my yearlong worldwide adventure.

Next, check out my favorite travel resources to travel cheaper, faster, and better.

Finally, head over to read my latest posts to stoke your sense of wanderlust.

• How to Spend One Day in Córdoba (Day Trip from Sevilla)
• Where to Stay in Bologna: A Complete Guide for First Timers
• How to Plan an Incredible Pacific Northwest Road Trip
• Hiking in the San Francisco Bay Area: A Complete Guide 
• 2 Days in Bologna: A Perfect Itinerary for First Timers

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

This is an amazing post! Thank you so much! We’ll be traveling with a little one (8 months old) so this really helps me plan our day – down to the times and everything. Any chance you have a “things to do with kids in Seattle” post?

Hey Briana! First of all, thanks for the kind words. Unfortunately, we don’t really have a post like that, since we don’t have kids (and therefore don’t have the personal experience to draw from). Sorry!

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