The Best Experiences in Washington: Top 10 Must-Do Activities (Currently Open)
From misty coastlines to snow-capped peaks, Washington State offers a stunning variety of experiences that capture the essence of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re craving a mountain adventure, a cultural journey, or a coastal escape, the Evergreen State delivers it all. Known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural heritage, Washington invites travelers to explore, unwind, and reconnect with nature in unforgettable ways.
Here’s your guide to the Top 10 Must-Do Activities in Washington (Currently Open) — each one offering a unique window into the state’s adventurous spirit and diverse landscape.
Explore Olympic National Park – Where Rainforest Meets Rugged Coastline
Spanning nearly one million acres, Olympic National Park is one of the most diverse natural destinations in America. Its landscape includes lush rainforests, glacier-topped mountains, and wild Pacific shores—all within a few hours’ drive.
Why it’s a must-do:
Hike through the Hoh Rain Forest, one of the few temperate rainforests in the world, where moss-draped trees and emerald canopies create a fairytale atmosphere.
Walk along Ruby Beach, where sea stacks rise dramatically from the surf.
Drive up to Hurricane Ridge for panoramic mountain views and wildlife sightings.
Local tip: Stay overnight in Port Angeles or Forks to explore different ecosystems without rushing. Each region of the park feels like a world of its own.
Perfect for: Nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking serenity in the wilderness.
Visit Mount Rainier National Park – Washington’s Majestic Icon
Towering 14,410 feet above sea level, Mount Rainier is not just a mountain—it’s a symbol of Washington’s wild beauty. The active stratovolcano and its surrounding park offer a playground for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Top things to do:
Take the Skyline Trail from Paradise, one of the most scenic hikes in the nation.
Visit in summer for blooming wildflower meadows, or in winter for snowshoeing and skiing.
Capture sunrise from Sunrise Point, aptly named for its breathtaking morning views.
Why it’s special: Mount Rainier isn’t just about adventure; it’s a place of reflection. The combination of grandeur and peace makes every visit unforgettable.
Perfect for: Hikers, climbers, and anyone who wants to experience Washington’s natural majesty.
Discover Pike Place Market – Seattle’s Historic Heartbeat
In the heart of downtown Seattle, Pike Place Market has been a gathering place since 1907. It’s one of the oldest continuously operated farmers markets in the U.S., overflowing with fresh produce, seafood, artisan goods, and street performers.
Don’t miss:
Watch the fishmongers toss salmon through the air at the famous Pike Place Fish Market.
Sip a latte at the original Starbucks, still buzzing with nostalgic charm.
Stroll through the underground shops, full of handmade crafts and quirky finds.
Pro tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds, and stay for lunch at one of the seafood restaurants overlooking Elliott Bay.
Perfect for: Foodies, families, and first-time visitors to Seattle.
Cruise the San Juan Islands – A Pacific Northwest Paradise
Just a ferry ride from Anacortes lies the San Juan Islands, a serene archipelago where life slows down. Each island—San Juan, Orcas, and Lopez—offers its own flavor of adventure and relaxation.
Why it’s unmissable:
Spot orca whales from the shore or on a guided boat tour.
Kayak along protected coves or bike through scenic island roads.
Explore Friday Harbor, a charming waterfront town filled with local galleries and cafes.
Local favorite: On Orcas Island, hike up Mount Constitution in Moran State Park for views that stretch all the way to Canada.
Perfect for: Couples, nature lovers, and those seeking tranquility with a touch of adventure.
Wander Through Leavenworth – A Bavarian Village in the Cascades
Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, the village of Leavenworth feels like a slice of Europe in the Pacific Northwest. Once a struggling logging town, it reinvented itself as a Bavarian-style mountain retreat, and today it’s one of Washington’s most beloved destinations.
Top experiences:
Stroll through Alpine-inspired streets lined with shops, breweries, and restaurants.
Attend seasonal festivals like Oktoberfest or the Christmas Lighting Festival.
Go whitewater rafting on the Wenatchee River or hiking in nearby Icicle Gorge.
Why it’s special: Leavenworth’s unique blend of mountain scenery and old-world charm creates a getaway that’s both relaxing and festive.
Perfect for: Families, couples, and anyone who loves small-town charm with big mountain views.
Experience Space Needle & Chihuly Garden and Glass – Icons of Modern Seattle
No trip to Washington is complete without a visit to Seattle’s Space Needle, the city’s most recognizable landmark. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, it continues to inspire visitors with its futuristic design and sweeping skyline views.
Must-do moments:
Ride the glass elevator to the observation deck for panoramic views of Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and Elliott Bay.
Explore Chihuly Garden and Glass next door, where the work of local artist Dale Chihuly transforms glass into vibrant sculptures and glowing installations.
Why it’s iconic: Together, these attractions blend Washington’s creative spirit and innovative energy.
Perfect for: Art enthusiasts, photographers, and architecture lovers.
Journey to North Cascades National Park – The Alps of America
Known as the “American Alps,” North Cascades National Park is a wilderness wonderland filled with jagged peaks, turquoise lakes, and dense forests. Despite its grandeur, it remains one of the nation’s least-crowded parks—a hidden gem for adventurers.
Top activities:
Hike to Cascade Pass for a sweeping view of glaciers and alpine meadows.
Visit Diablo Lake, whose surreal blue-green color seems straight out of a painting.
Explore Stehekin, a remote village accessible only by boat or plane.
Why it’s unforgettable: It’s one of the most pristine landscapes left in the U.S., perfect for disconnecting from the digital world and reconnecting with nature.
Perfect for: Backpackers, photographers, and anyone who craves solitude and scenery.
Explore Spokane’s Riverfront Park – Urban Nature at Its Finest
In eastern Washington, Spokane blends city energy with outdoor beauty. Riverfront Park, once the site of Expo ’74, remains a beloved gathering place with trails, bridges, and a world-class view of Spokane Falls.
Highlights include:
Ride the Numerica SkyRide, which glides over the rushing waterfalls.
Explore the Looff Carrousel, one of the country’s oldest and most beautiful hand-carved carousels.
Walk the Centennial Trail, a 40-mile path connecting Spokane to Idaho.
Why it stands out: Riverfront Park captures Washington’s knack for turning natural beauty into vibrant public spaces.
Perfect for: Families, cyclists, and urban explorers.
Sip and Stroll Through Washington Wine Country – Walla Walla & Beyond
Washington is the second-largest wine-producing state in the U.S., and nowhere is that more apparent than in Walla Walla. This charming eastern town is surrounded by vineyards and has become a world-class wine destination.
Don’t miss:
Wine tastings at renowned estates like L’Ecole No 41, Pepper Bridge, and Seven Hills Winery.
Farm-to-table dining experiences paired with local vintages.
The scenic Blue Mountains, offering a beautiful backdrop for wine adventures.
Other regions to explore:
Yakima Valley for laid-back tasting rooms.
Woodinville Wine Country near Seattle for an easy day trip.
Perfect for: Couples, foodies, and anyone who loves great wine with stunning views.
Visit Mount St. Helens – Witness the Power of Nature
In 1980, Mount St. Helens changed Washington’s landscape forever when it erupted, reshaping the land and reminding the world of nature’s incredible power. Today, it’s one of the most fascinating places to explore in the Pacific Northwest.
Top experiences:
Visit the Johnston Ridge Observatory for exhibits and sweeping views of the crater.
Hike the Hummocks Trail or Harry’s Ridge for up-close views of the blast zone.
Learn about the eruption’s history and ecological recovery at local visitor centers.
Why it’s inspiring: This region stands as a living testament to resilience—both ecological and human.
Perfect for: Science lovers, hikers, and anyone fascinated by geology and renewal.
Bonus Experience: Take a Ferry Across Puget Sound
Few experiences define Washington more than a ferry ride across Puget Sound. Whether you’re traveling from Seattle to Bainbridge Island or from Anacortes to the San Juans, a ferry ride offers unbeatable views and peaceful moments on the water.
Highlights:
Breathtaking vistas of the Olympic Mountains, Seattle skyline, and Mount Rainier.
A chance to spot marine life, including seals, porpoises, and orcas.
Island towns like Bainbridge and Vashon that offer delightful cafes and boutique shopping.
Why it’s essential: The ferry system isn’t just transportation—it’s part of the Washington experience, linking communities while providing a front-row seat to the state’s coastal beauty.
Perfect for: Families, romantics, and anyone looking for a relaxing day trip.
Crafting Your Perfect Washington Adventure
One of Washington’s greatest strengths is its geographic diversity. You can start your morning hiking through snow-capped peaks and finish your evening watching the sunset over the ocean. Whether you prefer city culture, small-town charm, or raw wilderness, there’s a perfect experience waiting for you.
Sample itinerary ideas:
Weekend escape: Seattle → Bainbridge Island → Olympic National Park
Adventure circuit: Mount Rainier → Leavenworth → North Cascades
Wine & culture route: Spokane → Walla Walla → Yakima Valley
Washington makes it easy to combine adventure with comfort, luxury with simplicity, and discovery with relaxation.
Final Thoughts: Discover the Spirit of the Evergreen State
The best experiences in Washington aren’t just about what you see—they’re about what you feel. Whether it’s the mist on your face at Olympic National Park, the laughter echoing through Pike Place Market, or the calm of a San Juan sunset, these moments define what it means to experience the Evergreen State.
Summary & Call to Action:
Adventure is calling. From mountains to coastlines, from bustling markets to tranquil vineyards, Washington is ready to welcome you. Pack your curiosity, grab your sense of wonder, and start exploring the top must-do activities in this breathtaking corner of the world. Your Washington adventure begins the moment you step outside.