Northern Washington State Map

Introduction

Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, foodie or adventure seeker, Northern Washington State has something for everyone. From the rugged mountains to the sandy beaches, this region offers a diverse range of experiences that will leave you awe-inspired. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore Northern Washington State!

Top Attractions

Space Needle

The Space Needle is a Seattle icon and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Pacific Northwest. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the Space Needle offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can take the elevator up to the observation deck, which stands at 520 feet above ground level.

Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is a bustling public market in downtown Seattle that features over 200 local vendors. Here, you can find everything from fresh seafood and produce to handmade crafts and souvenirs. Don’t forget to stop by the original Starbucks, which opened in 1971.

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park is home to the highest peak in the Cascade Range, Mount Rainier, which stands at 14,410 feet. Visitors can explore the park’s many hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking views.

Hidden Gems

San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands are a hidden gem located in the Puget Sound. This archipelago consists of over 400 islands, with only four being accessible by ferry. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, whale watching, and exploring the quaint towns on the islands.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a hidden gem located on the Olympic Peninsula. The park is home to three distinct ecosystems: the Pacific coastline, the Olympic Mountains, and the temperate rainforest. Visitors can hike, camp, and explore the park’s natural wonders.

Food Scene

Seafood

Being located on the coast, Northern Washington State is known for its fresh seafood. From oysters and clams to crab and salmon, there’s something for every seafood lover. Don’t miss the famous seafood chowder at Pike Place Market.

Craft Beer

Washington State is known for its craft beer scene, with over 400 breweries in the state. Northern Washington State has some of the best breweries, including Fremont Brewing and Stoup Brewing in Seattle, and Boundary Bay Brewery in Bellingham.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Museums

Many museums in Northern Washington State offer free admission on certain days. The Seattle Art Museum offers free admission on the first Thursday of every month, and the Museum of History and Industry offers free admission on the first Thursday and first Saturday of every month.

Happy Hour Deals

Many restaurants and bars in Northern Washington State offer happy hour deals, which are a great way to save money on food and drinks. Some of the best places for happy hour deals include The Pink Door in Seattle and The Racket in Bellingham.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking

Northern Washington State has some of the best hiking trails in the country. From the challenging hike up Mount Si near Seattle to the scenic hike around Lake Whatcom in Bellingham, there’s a hike for every skill level.

Whale Watching

Whale watching is a popular activity in Northern Washington State, with several companies offering tours. The San Juan Islands are a great place to see orcas and other marine life.

Family-Friendly Activities

Seattle Children’s Museum

The Seattle Children’s Museum is a fun and interactive museum for kids. The museum offers hands-on exhibits and activities that encourage learning and creativity.

Birch Bay Waterslides

The Birch Bay Waterslides in Blaine are a fun way to cool off on a hot summer day. The water park features several water slides, a lazy river, and a kiddie pool.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

North Cascades National Park

North Cascades National Park is a lesser-known national park that offers a remote wilderness experience. The park is home to glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine meadows, and is a great place for hiking and camping.

Leavenworth

Leavenworth is a Bavarian-themed town located in the Cascade Mountains. The town is known for its charming architecture, German food, and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.

Natural Wonders

Deception Pass State Park

Deception Pass State Park is a scenic park located on Whidbey Island. The park is known for its stunning views of the Deception Pass Bridge, as well as its hiking trails and beaches.

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is a vast wilderness area that encompasses over 1 million acres. The forest is home to several glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine lakes, and is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and skiing.

Vibrant Nightlife

Belltown

Belltown is a trendy neighborhood in Seattle that offers a vibrant nightlife scene. The neighborhood is home to several bars, restaurants, and clubs, and is a great place to go out on the town.

Fairhaven

Fairhaven is a historic neighborhood in Bellingham that offers a more laid-back nightlife scene. The neighborhood is home to several bars, restaurants, and shops, and is a great place to relax and unwind.

Local Markets

Bellingham Farmers Market

The Bellingham Farmers Market is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The market features over 100 vendors selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and food from around the world.

Ballard Farmers Market

The Ballard Farmers Market is a year-round market located in Seattle that features over 100 vendors. The market is known for its fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, and locally grown produce.

Beaches and Mountains

Ocean Shores

Ocean Shores is a popular beach town located on the Pacific coast. The town offers several miles of sandy beaches, as well as a variety of water sports like kayaking and surfing.

Snoqualmie Pass

Snoqualmie Pass is a mountain pass located in the Cascade Mountains. The pass is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and hiking and mountain biking in the summer.

Cultural Immersion

Wing Luke Museum

The Wing Luke Museum is a museum in Seattle that showcases the history and culture of Asian Americans in the Pacific Northwest. The museum offers exhibits, tours, and educational programs.

Northwest Indian College

The Northwest Indian College is a college in Bellingham that focuses on Native American studies. The college offers classes, workshops, and cultural events that are open to the public.

Art and Music Scene

Chihuly Garden and Glass

The Chihuly Garden and Glass is a museum in Seattle that showcases the works of glass artist Dale Chihuly. The museum features several galleries, a glasshouse, and a garden filled with Chihuly’s sculptures.

The Upfront Theatre

The Upfront Theatre is a comedy club in Bellingham that was founded by actor and comedian Ryan Stiles. The theatre offers improv shows, classes, and workshops.

Walking Tours

Seattle Underground

The Seattle Underground is a network of tunnels and passageways that were built in the 19th century after a fire destroyed much of the city. Visitors can take a guided tour of the underground to learn about Seattle’s history.

Bellingham Historic Fairhaven Tour

The Bellingham Historic Fairhaven Tour is a walking tour of the Fairhaven neighborhood in Bellingham. The tour showcases the neighborhood’s historic architecture and landmarks.

Architectural Marvels

Smith Tower

The Smith Tower is a historic skyscraper in Seattle that was built in 1914. The tower was the tallest building west of the Mississippi River at the time of its construction and