Washington · 27 Places · Best June–September
Washington State, located in the Pacific Northwest corner of the United States, is a land of dramatic contrasts — from the rain-soaked temperate rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula to the volcanic peaks of the Cascades and the arid shrub-steppe of the east. Home to Seattle, one of America's most dynamic cities, the state blends state-of-the-art technology culture with stunning wilderness, world-class food and coffee scenes, and some of the continent's most diverse outdoor adventure.
Washington State offers a remarkable mix of urban sophistication and raw wilderness. Seattle anchors the state with its iconic Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and thriving tech and food scenes, while three national parks — Olympic, Mount Rainier, and North Cascades — provide world-class outdoor adventures. The San Juan Islands, Puget Sound, wine country of the Yakima Valley, and the Columbia River Gorge round out a destination that rewards both urban explorers and nature lovers. Washington is also one of the world's top wine-producing regions and a leader in sustainable seafood.
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The 27 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Seattle's most iconic landmark, a 605-foot futuristic tower built for the 1962 World's Fair. The observation deck offers 360-degree views of the city, Puget Sound, and the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges, while the revolving restaurant serves Pacific Northwest cuisine.
America's oldest continually operating farmers market, established in 1907, sprawling along Seattle's waterfront. Famous for fish-throwing fishmongers, the original Starbucks, local artisan vendors, Rachel the Piggy Bank, and the iconic gum wall.
Home to Washington's highest peak, the active stratovolcano Mount Rainier at 14,411 feet, this national park features 26 glaciers, stunning wildflower meadows at Paradise, and over 260 miles of hiking trails. One of the most glaciated peaks in the contiguous US.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning nearly one million acres on the Olympic Peninsula, encompassing three distinct ecosystems: glacier-capped mountains, temperate old-growth rainforest (Hoh Rain Forest), and 73 miles of wild Pacific coastline.
The least-visited of Washington's three national parks but arguably its most dramatic, featuring over 300 glaciers, jagged peaks, and turquoise mountain lakes. The North Cascades Highway (SR-20) provides breathtaking scenic driving through the park.
An archipelago of 172 named islands in the Salish Sea, accessible by ferry from Anacortes. The islands are celebrated for orca whale watching, sea kayaking, cycling, and charming towns like Friday Harbor on San Juan Island and Eastsound on Orcas Island.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Seattle's grandest historic hotel, built in 1924 and restored to its original Italian Renaissance splendor. The Fairmont Olympic offers 450 rooms and suites in the heart of downtown, with world-class service, a heated indoor pool, and two acclaimed restaurants.
Check rates on Booking.comSeattle's only over-water hotel, built on Pier 67, offering stunning views of Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and the famous Seattle waterfront. The Beatles famously fished from their room windows when they stayed here in 1964.
Check rates on Booking.comContemporary luxury tower overlooking Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains, featuring a rooftop terrace, an infinity-edge pool, and the acclaimed EDGE restaurant. Impeccably appointed rooms offer panoramic water and mountain views.
Check rates on Booking.comA converted 1931 seminary building nestled within a state park on the shores of Lake Washington, offering an extraordinary blend of history, nature, and modern luxury. Features a spa, pools, and access to miles of forest trails.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Seattle's most celebrated fine dining institution since 1950, perched above Lake Union with panoramic views. The menu rotates seasonally around the best Pacific Northwest ingredients, and the cellar holds one of the finest wine collections in the Pacific Northwest.
Winner of numerous national chowder competitions, this beloved Pike Place Market institution serves award-winning New England and Pacific clam chowders in sourdough bread bowls along with fresh seafood sandwiches and bisques.
Seattle's most beloved oyster bar in the Ballard neighborhood, serving a rotating selection of Pacific Northwest oysters alongside an inventive small-plates menu. Expect a queue — no reservations accepted, and it's absolutely worth the wait.
A legendary Pioneer Square deli established by the late Armandino Batali (father of celebrity chef Mario Batali), producing remarkable artisan cured meats, salumi, and sandwiches. Tiny space with long lines — a true Seattle institution.
A Capitol Hill restaurant serving globally inspired street food and snacks from around the world — Taiwanese popcorn chicken, Vietnamese bánh mì, Moroccan lamb chops — in a relaxed, communal setting with an exceptional cocktail program.
Chef Tom Douglas's beloved Belltown pizzeria crafting artisan Neapolitan-style pizzas in wood-burning ovens, topped with local Pacific Northwest ingredients. The clam and pancetta pizza has become a Seattle classic.
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Washington State has a diverse transportation network anchored by Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), one of the Pacific Northwest's busiest hubs. The state operates the largest ferry system in the United States, connecting Puget Sound communities. Sound Transit's Link Light Rail, King County Metro buses, and Amtrak Cascades rail service provide urban and intercity connections. Rental cars are essential for exploring national parks and rural areas east of the Cascades.
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $30 | $150 | $350 |
| Food (per day) | $20 | $40 | $100 |
| Transportation | $15 | $25 | $60 |
| Activities | $10 | $30 | $80 |
| Daily total | $75 | $200 | $500+ |
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Washington.
Always check mountain weather forecasts before hiking in the Cascades or Olympics — conditions can change rapidly even in summer
Carry bear spray and store food in bear-proof canisters or hang food in national parks and wilderness areas
Never feed wildlife in national parks; approaching or feeding animals is illegal and dangerous
Rip currents exist on Pacific Ocean beaches — swim only at beaches with lifeguards and obey posted warnings
Keep valuables out of sight in rental cars, especially at trailheads and tourist parking areas (car break-ins are common)
In Seattle, be alert in Pioneer Square and around Third Avenue downtown after dark — these areas have elevated crime rates
Use designated fire rings and check for burn bans before starting campfires — Washington has strict wildfire regulations
Hypothermia risk is real even in summer at high elevations and in the cold Pacific waters — dress in layers
Water from backcountry streams must be filtered or treated — even clear-looking water can carry Giardia
Lock your vehicle at all trailheads and remove all valuables — car prowls are the most common crime in state parks
Be aware of mountain lion and bear presence in rural areas and national parks; make noise while hiking
Download offline maps before visiting national parks and remote areas — cell service is often unavailable
In winter, carry tire chains or appropriate snow tires for Cascades mountain passes; WSDOT may require them
Never enter flooded roads or streams — Washington's rivers can rise rapidly and currents are extremely dangerous
Monitor wildfire conditions in summer, especially in eastern Washington, and have an evacuation plan when camping
Washington State is generally a very safe destination for travelers, with most areas presenting only standard urban safety concerns. The primary risks are environmental — mountain weather, wilderness hazards, and coastal conditions — rather than crime-related. Emergency services: police at 911, medical at 911.
The best time to visit Washington is June–September. Washington State has two very distinct climates divided by the Cascade Mountains. Western Washington (including Seattle) has a temperate oceanic climate with mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers
Entry requirements follow United States rules. Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries may visit for up to 90 days with ESTA authorization. All others require a valid US visa. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in Washington is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Washington: English, Spanish. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in Washington include Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Mount Rainier National Park, Olympic National Park, and North Cascades National Park. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
