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# Explore Washington State

## Sitemaps
- [XML Sitemap](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [Christmas Tree Farms in Washington: Where to Cut Your Own in 2026](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/christmas-tree-farms-washington/): Some Washington tree farms open before Thanksgiving and some sell out by early December. Here are the farms by region, with 2026 dates, prices and what to bring.
- [Voluntold: How Brian Alley Ended Up Running a Folk Festival in Winthrop](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/brian-alley-winthrop-folk-n-roots-fest/): That festival is now the Winthrop Folk N Roots Fest, and it returns to the Winthrop Barn on October 23 and 24, 2026.
- [Best Coffee in Tacoma: 43 Shops, Stands and Roasters](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/tacoma-coffee-shops/): The best coffee in Tacoma, all 43 shops by neighborhood. Which ones roast on site, which open at 4:30 AM, and the handful still pouring after seven.
- [Renton Coffee Shops: 22 Local Spots, Rooms and Windows](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/renton-coffee-shops/): Renton coffee shops sorted by whether you are sitting down or driving through. 22 local shops by neighborhood, with the 4 AM windows and the few places open past six.
- [Bellingham Coffee Shops: 18 Independents, Sorted by What You Actually Need](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/bellingham-coffee-shops/): Bellingham coffee shops sorted by what you need: a room to sit in, a roaster to buy from, or a window at 4:30 AM. 18 local shops, by neighborhood.
- [25 Things to Do in Washington This Fall](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/things-to-do-in-washington-in-fall/): Twenty five things to do in Washington this fall, split by whether the sky is clear. Apple orchards, salmon runs, bookstores, crush and crab.
- [He Has One Roll of Film Left. John Shephard’s Panoramic Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/john-shephard-washington-wide-panoramic-photography/): Most photographs of Washington State are made in a fraction of a second. John Shephard's are not.
- [Not a Bog, a Fen: Kate Miller and the Save of Bonaparte Meadows](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kate-miller-okanogan-land-trust-bonaparte-meadows/): Bonaparte Meadows sits below Bonaparte Mountain near Bonaparte Lake, up in the Okanogan Highlands. It is 745 acres, and at the centre of it lies roughly 265 acres of calcareous fen. If you have been using the words bog, fen and swamp interchangeably your whole life, this is the part of the episode that fixes that. A bog catches and holds rainwater, which is why bogs tend to be acidic. A fen is fed by groundwater welling up through the site and running along it. At Bonaparte that groundwater filters through limestone on the way, which makes it a calcareous fen, one of the rarest wetland types in the United States and the largest peat wetland in Okanogan County. Its deep peat soils hold water, store carbon, and feed cold clean flows down into the Okanogan River watershed.
- [Greasy Fingerprints on a Beam: Inside Fort Flagler and Fort Worden](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kelsey-lang-fort-flagler-fort-worden/): The best story in this episode is a ceiling beam. The Fort Flagler museum sits in the old quartermaster storehouse, the building where the Coast Artillery kept supplies for the soldiers and families stationed out on Marrowstone Island. Across one beam in one of the rooms there is a scatter of greasy fingerprints at different heights.
- [Free Camping in Washington State: What to Know Before You Go](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/free-camping-washington-state/): Free camping in Washington State is legal, it is everywhere, and there is more of it here than in almost any state in the West. The national forests alone cover more than 9 million acres, and across most of that ground you can pull off a gravel road tonight and sleep for free, legally, without telling anyone you are coming.
- [Best Time to Visit Pike Place Market (And When to Skip It)](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/best-time-to-visit-pike-place-market/): The best time to visit Pike Place Market is a weekday morning before 10am. Here is when to go, where to park, how long to stay, and what is worth skipping.
- [Best Camping in Washington State: Campgrounds by Region](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/camping-in-washington-state/): A region by region guide to the best camping in Washington State, from the Pacific coast to the high desert, with reservation tips and a full guide behind every campground.
- [National Parks in Washington State: Mount Rainier, Olympic and North Cascades](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/national-parks-in-washington-state/): Washington State is home to three national parks, and no other state in the lower 48 fits this much variety into a single weekend of driving. Mount Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades all sit within about three hours of Seattle, yet each one feels like a different country. One is built around a single glaciated volcano. One holds rainforest, alpine ridgeline, and wild Pacific coast inside one boundary. One protects more glaciers than anywhere else in the country outside Alaska.
- [Manito Park Spokane: When to Go and What Actually Blooms](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/manito-park-spokane/): Manito Park's five gardens peak in five different months. Here's when each one is worth your Saturday, what stays free year round, and when to skip it.
- [Grand Coulee Dam: Tours, Laser Show, and the Full Story](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/grand-coulee-dam/): Grand Coulee Dam's laser show runs nightly through September 30. When to go, how to tour it, where to get the best view, and what the dam cost the river.
- [Apple and Harvest Festivals in Washington State: 2026 Dates and Guide](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/apple-and-harvest-festivals-in-washington-state/): Washington grows more apples than any other state, so when the harvest comes in each fall, it is the main event rather than a novelty. From the orchards of the Wenatchee valley to the you pick farms of Green Bluff outside Spokane, the towns that live off the crop throw open their pioneer villages, cider presses, and street fairs to celebrate the season. This guide sorts the real apple and harvest festivals in Washington by region, with confirmed 2026 dates where organizers have posted them, so you can find the celebration closest to home.
- [Oktoberfest in Washington State: Every Major Fest and 2026 Dates](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/oktoberfest-in-washington-state/): The oompah band hits its stride, a fresh keg gives up its first hiss, and the smell of warm pretzels and grilling bratwurst rolls down the street while a crowd falls into the chicken dance. That is Oktoberfest, and in Washington it is not a single weekend in one town. From a mountain brewery keg toss in the Cascade foothills to a casino biergarten down near the Columbia River to Seattle's biggest beer party in Fremont, the state runs Oktoberfest celebrations across a full month, roughly September 18 through October 17, 2026.
- [RV for Beginners: How to Start RVing in Washington State](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/rv-for-beginners/): There’s something about waking up to a new view right out your window. It is a simple reminder that life isn’t meant to be lived the same way every day. One morning you’re sipping coffee beside a quiet mountain lake, the next you’re watching the sun rise over the ocean or listening to rain tap gently on the roof beneath a canopy of towering evergreens. Every mile brings another chance to slow down; explore a place you’ve never seen and collect moments that stay with you long after the trip is over.
- [Best Fall Hikes in Washington: 15 Trails for Peak Color](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/best-fall-hikes-in-washington/): The 15 best fall hikes in Washington, from golden larch loops in the North Cascades to easy maple walks near Seattle, with distance, timing, and passes.
- [Corn Mazes and Pumpkin Patches in Washington State: A Region by Region Guide](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/corn-mazes-and-pumpkin-patches-in-washington/): Here is the season in one line. The farms open between mid September and the first weekend of October, the sweet spot is late September through the middle of October, and almost everything shuts down on October 31 or November 1. Many of the best activities run on weekends only. What follows is a region by region guide to the best corn mazes and pumpkin patches in Washington, grouped by where you live, so a family anywhere in the state can find its patch close to home.
- [Washington Wine Harvest and Crush Season: When to Go and What You’ll Actually See](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-wine-harvest-crush-season/): The bay doors are open and a forklift is backing a half ton bin of grapes toward the crush pad. Someone in purple stained gloves is pulling stems off the sorting line. The destemmer is running, the air smells like fermenting juice and diesel, and off to one side a fresh barrel of press juice is going cloudy and sweet. For about six weeks every fall, this is what Washington wine country actually is, and you can stand right in the middle of it.
- [Fall Foliage in Washington State: Where and When to See Peak Color](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/fall-foliage-in-washington-state/): This guide maps fall foliage in Washington State across the whole season in one place: what turns when, where each act plays out, and how to plan a couple of weekends so you catch both. The windows shift a little every year with heat and frost, so treat the dates as targets, not promises.
- [Best State Parks in Washington: 16 Worth the Drive](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/best-state-parks-in-washington/): This is our shortlist of the best state parks in Washington, grouped by region so you can plan around wherever you are headed. Some are famous for a reason. A few are quieter picks worth the extra miles. Every one of them earns its spot. A Washington State Discover Pass is required for vehicle access at all of them, available as an annual pass or a single day pass, and each park below links to our full guide with hours, camping, and trail details.
- [Pride Events in Washington State](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/pride-events-in-washington-state/): Most people picture Pride in Washington as one Sunday in late June, downtown Seattle, the parade down Fourth Avenue. That day is real, and it is the biggest single event in the state. It is also a small slice of what actually happens here.
- [Washington State Ferry Guide: Everything Visitors Need to Know](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-ferry-guide/): The Bainbridge Island ferry pulls away from Colman Dock and clears Elliott Bay in about ten minutes. If you are standing on the outdoor deck when it does, you get the full Seattle skyline receding behind you and the Olympic Mountains ahead. It is one of the best views in Washington State and it costs around the price of a coffee shop lunch to stand there.
- [Festivals in Washington State](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/festivals-in-washington-state/): Washington throws a party in every season. From tulip fields and lavender farms to Bavarian beer halls and a citywide celebration with the Blue Angels overhead, the state's festivals are some of the best reasons to plan a trip around the calendar. This is our curated guide to the celebrations worth building a weekend around, organized by season so you can find what is happening whenever you visit.
- [Best Things to Do in Seattle (A Local’s Guide)](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/best-things-to-do-in-seattle/): The Saturday Verdict: Handle the icons fast, then go find the neighborhoods. Most lists of things to do in Seattle hand you the same six attractions and call it a city. Pike Place, the Space Needle, a harbor cruise, done. That is the airport flyer version of Seattle, and it is the least interesting day you can have here. The city that residents actually use is in Fremont, Ballard, Georgetown, and Capitol Hill, and it is mostly walkable and mostly free. Give the checklist a morning. Give the neighborhoods the rest.
- [The 4 Best Coffee Shops in Downtown Everett](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/everett-coffee-shops/): If you are looking for the best coffee in downtown Everett, the good news is that you have some hard choices to make, because there is more of it than this old mill town usually gets credit for.
- [Sequim Lavender Festival 2026: Dates, Farms, and How to Plan Your Visit](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/sequim-lavender-festival/): Every July, a quiet farming valley on the north edge of the Olympic Peninsula turns purple, and the whole town leans into it. Sequim calls itself the Lavender Capital of North America, and for one weekend in the middle of summer it more than earns the title. The Sequim Lavender Festival is the celebration at the center of it all, and in 2026 it reaches a milestone: thirty years.
- [42 Fun Facts About Washington State (the 42nd State)](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/fun-facts-about-washington-state/): Washington joined the Union as the 42nd state, so here are 42 fun facts to match: the only state named after a president, a Bigfoot refuge, a full size Stonehenge, and more.
- [Columbia River State Parks Washington | Ultimate Guide to All 14](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/columbia-river-state-parks-washington/): There are 14 Columbia River state parks Washington has designated along its shores, and most visitors only know a few of them. The Columbia runs more than 300 miles through the state, from the Canadian border to the Pacific coast, and each park on its shores is completely different from the last.
- [Where to Stay Inside Mount Rainier National Park in 2026](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/mount-rainier-national-park-lodging/): This is the complete guide to Mount Rainier National Park lodging inside the park boundaries.
- [The Yakima River Canyon: The Drive Most Washingtonians Skip](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/yakima-river-canyon/): The Yakima River Canyon is the 25-mile stretch of State Route 821 that connects Ellensburg and Yakima through basalt cliffs and high desert. Most people on I-82 between Seattle and the Tri-Cities have never turned south at Thrall Road. They should.
- [Visiting Fort Simcoe Historical State Park](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/visiting-fort-simcoe-state-park/): Have you ever had a place entirely to yourself? I pulled into the Fort Simcoe Historical State Park parking lot on a September afternoon and found it completely empty. Not a single other car. For a park that preserves one of the few surviving frontier forts from the 1850s in the Pacific Northwest, that kind of solitude felt almost surreal. I spent about an hour walking the grounds alone, and I left already thinking about when I could come back.
- [Visiting the Hoh Rainforest: Is It Worth the Drive?](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/visiting-hoh-rainforest/): Visiting Hoh Rainforest means stepping into the wettest place in the contiguous United States. 140 inches of rain per year. Sitka spruce trees over 300 feet tall wrapped in so much old man's beard lichen they look like something from a film set. Roosevelt elk wandering through a forest floor so green it almost reads as artificial.
- [Fourth of July in Washington State 2026: Fireworks, Parades and Celebrations Statewide](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/fourth-of-july-washington-state/): Washington State puts on a serious Fourth of July. From a 45-minute fireworks show over a coastal marina to drone displays lighting up city parks, from laser beams projected across the face of one of the largest dams in the world to families lining miles of Pacific beach with sparklers, the state offers more ways to celebrate Independence Day than most people realize.
- [Whale Watching in Washington: The Complete Shore Based Guide](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/whale-watching-washington/): Whale watching Washington state offers some of the best shore based viewing in the world. Orcas, gray whales, humpbacks, and minkes all pass within sight of public shorelines. The Southern Resident killer whales cruise Haro Strait close enough to San Juan Island that people watch them from a lighthouse lawn. Gray whales migrate past the outer coast twice a year. Humpbacks have been returning to Washington waters in growing numbers for a decade.
- [A Curious Washingtonian’s Guide to Birding the North Cascades Highway (SR 20)](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/birding-north-cascades-highway-sr-20/): Birding North Cascades Highway (SR 20) is something most of the spring crowd misses entirely. The road opens every season to motorcyclists, photographers, and people who have been watching the WSDOT pass cam since March. What most of them do not know is that the highway opens at roughly the same time the Harlequin Ducks show up.
- [Things to Do in Cle Elum, WA: The Town You’ve Been Driving Past](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/things-to-do-in-cle-elum-wa/): Here is what is actually worth your time a complete guide to things to do in Cle Elum WA and its neighbor Roslyn, two miles up the road.
- [Washington State Bird: Where to Spot the Willow Goldfinch](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-bird/): Washington's state bird is the Willow Goldfinch, a flash of brilliant yellow that turns up in backyard feeders, weedy fields, and wetland edges across the state. Learn how to identify it, when breeding colors peak, and the best places to spot one near you.
- [Cherry Blossoms in Seattle: 7 Best Places to See Them in 2026](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/cherry-blossoms-seattle/): Spring in Seattle means one thing for a few glorious weeks each year: cherry blossoms. The city comes alive with pink and white blooms at parks, gardens, and campuses across every neighborhood. Most people know about the famous trees at the University of Washington, and for good reason, but Seattle has more cherry blossom viewing than one campus can hold. Whether you want the full crowd experience at the UW Quad, a quieter walk through a Japanese garden, or a neighborhood spot that most visitors never find, you have options. Here is where to find the best cherry blossoms in Seattle has to offer.
- [How to Chase Morel Season Across Washington State](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/morel-hunting-washington-state/): Washington morel season can last four months if you follow the elevation from low river valleys in late March to high mountain passes in July. Here is the complete playbook for chasing morels across the state.
- [UW Cherry Blossoms 2026: Peak Bloom Dates, Best Spots and Visitor Tips](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/uw-cherry-blossoms/): The UW cherry blossoms are blooming now in 2026. As of mid-March, the Yoshino cherry trees at the University of Washington Quad are in early bloom, with peak bloom expected in the last week of March through early April. The 29 trees that line the central lawn create one of the most photographed scenes in the Pacific Northwest during their narrow two week window. If you are planning a visit this spring, timing is everything.
- [Spending A Weekend On Blake Island State Park](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-weekend-on-blake-island/): Blake Island Marine State Park to us, is a local paradise and what the locals call a “Blakation”! Your arrival at the island puts you directly into another world. You will be greeted with grazing deer, possibly a bald eagle, the sounds of birds chirping and the waves crashing over the rocks on the beach. There are families interacting and playing and the views are well, magnificent. Sounds great, doesn’t it? Well, it gets better!
- [Seaside Charm, Military History: Exploring Fort Flagler State Park](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/visiting-fort-flagler/): Hey there, fellow adventurers! Grab your favorite PNW flannel, lace up those hiking boots, and maybe pack a cozy picnic basket, because today, we’re setting our sights on a place where stunning natural beauty meets fascinating military history: Fort Flagler State Park.
- [A Winter Walk At Waikiki](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/a-winter-walk-at-waikiki/): Waikiki Beach Cape Disappointment State Park is one of Washington’s most spectacular winter destinations, where storm-watching, coastal forest hikes, and sweeping views of the Columbia River mouth await.
- [A Thousand Campers a Night: Inside Lake Chelan State Park](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/brian-frahm-lake-chelan-state-park/): If you’ve ever camped at Lake Chelan State Park, you know how busy it can get. Summer weekends fill fast. Campgrounds feel packed. The lake is constant motion.
- [Spokane Built the Dodgers Dynasty](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spokane-built-the-dodgers-dynasty/): But far fewer know where the roots of that success were actually planted.And almost no one points to Spokane, Washington as the place where a dynasty began.
- [First Day Hikes in Washington: Where to Go on New Year’s Day](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/first-day-hikes-in-washington/): Share where you are going to take your First Day Hikes in Washington in the comments section below.
- [What Park Rangers See at Wallace Falls That Most Visitors Miss](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/wallace-falls-ranger-perspective/): Wallace Falls State Park is one of those places almost everyone in Washington has a story about. A first hike. A rainy weekend escape. A “let’s just go to the Middle Falls and see how we feel” kind of afternoon. It’s familiar, it’s reliable, and it’s always busy.
- [Weird on Purpose: Inside the “As Many Weirdos As Possible” Project](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/as-many-weirdos-as-possible/): he best art often comes from the people who don’t quite fit in. The ones who color outside the lines, play offbeat notes, and follow curiosity instead of convention. Those are the artists As Many Weirdos As Possible celebrates — the ones who make the Northwest’s music scene feel alive, unpredictable, and proudly original.
- [Outdoor Storytelling with Kate Rogers of Mountaineers Books](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kate-rogers-mountaineers-books/): In this episode, we sit down with Kate Rogers, Editor in Chief at Mountaineers Books, to talk about how meaningful outdoor experiences become written stories and eventually published books. Kate leads one of the most respected independent outdoor publishers in the country. She brings a thoughtful and welcoming view of creativity, writing, and what makes a great adventure narrative.
- [We Talked to the Guy Who Spent 15 Years Getting to Curlew Lake—And He’s Not Leaving](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/curlew-lake-ranger-joe-giampietri/): This past May, he landed at Curlew Lake State Park as the fulltime ranger. Twenty miles from Canada, Ferry County, about as far northeast as you can get in Washington without crossing the border.
- [Think You Know Seattle’s Southside? Think Again. Coffee, UFOs, and Micro Adventures with Mark Everton](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/seattle-southside-with-mark-everton/): Coffee, UFOs, and Micro-Adventures with Mark Everton
- [Celebrate Fall at Bi-Zi Farms Pumpkin Patch](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/a-visit-to-bi-zi-farms-pumpkin-patch/): The leaves turning orange and red and the crisp autumn air are all signs that the seasons are changing, but there is nothing that says Fall in the Pacific Northwest like a visit to a pumpkin patch. In Vancouver, Washington, the Zimmerman family owns and operates Bi-Zi Farms, which has everything you could ever want from a pumpkin patch. The farm itself is pretty large so be sure to give yourself ample time to roam the attractions and spend some time hunting for the perfect pumpkin.
- [A Magical Harry Potter-Inspired Stay at Half Giant Hut in Toledo](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/half-giant-hut/): If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the wizarding world, there’s a new cozy Airbnb tucked away in Toledo, Washington, that might just be your entrance to Hogwarts. Half Giant Hut is a Harry Potter inspired stay that brings the enchantment of the books to life, with rustic details, whimsical giant-sized décor, and a touch of magic in every corner. 
- [From Columbia River to Vineyard: The Tri-Cities Ironman Experience Through One Athlete’s Eyes meet Claude Brun](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/claude-brun-ironman-tri-cities/): The Columbia River may look calm from the shore, but beneath its surface flows a current that can shave precious minutes off an Ironman swim time. For Claude Brun, a French-American triathlete preparing for his second Tri-Cities IRONMAN, this downstream advantage is just one of many reasons why this race has become an annual pilgrimage.
- [From IRONMAN to Identity: Reimagining the Tri Cities with Kevin Lewis](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/tri-cities-with-kevin-lewis/): What defines a place and who gets to decide? In this episode, Scott sits down with Kevin Lewis, CEO of Visit Tri-Cities, to explore how one region is reimagining its identity.
- [Discovering the World’s Longest Drivable Beach](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/longest-drivable-beach/): Long Beach, Washington, complete with colorful storefronts boasting signs that read, “Beach Access,”
- [Family and Dog Friendly Ferry from Seattle to Victoria: Our Victoria Clipper Review](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/victoria-clipper-travel-with-kids-dog/): If you’ve ever dreamed of a quick escape from Seattle to the charm of Victoria, British Columbia, the Victoria Clipper might be your new favorite way to travel. 
- [Visiting Kendall Yards in Spokane, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/a-visit-to-kendall-yards-in-spokane-washington/): Across the Spokane River from downtown Spokane, Washington, lies the neighborhood of Kendall Yards. Just over the historic Monroe Street bridge, this up-and-coming neighborhood runs alongside the Centennial Trail, making it easily walk-able to downtown and other Spokane destinations along the river. With views of the Spokane River Gorge, plenty of open park space, and art installations throughout the community, Kendall Yards is a beautiful and bustling development of mixed used spaces that has proven quite successful.
- [How Athlete & Coach Jennifer Comfort Prepares to Conquer the 2025 Tri Cities Ironman](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/jennifer-comfort-tri-cities-ironman/): The Tri Cities Ironman 70.3 is no ordinary race. It is a test of endurance, grit, and mental strength — and for Jennifer Comfort, it is also home turf. As both a seasoned competitor and a dedicated coach, Jennifer has spent years helping athletes prepare for one of the Pacific Northwest’s most challenging events. In this episode of the Exploring Washington State Podcast, she shares the stories, strategies, and hard-earned lessons that make the Ironman experience unforgettable.
- [Spending a Day in Seattle’s Green Lake Neighborhood](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-day-in-green-lake/): The Green Lake neighborhood is just north of downtown Seattle. A quick 15-minute drive will take you away from the high rises and bring you to this low-key neighborhood built around the lake it’s named after. If you’re looking for a way to spend your day, here are some of the many attractions of the Green Lake neighborhood. 
- [Fun at the Kittitas County Fair](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/fun-at-the-kittitas-county-fair/): When you visit the Kittitas County Fair, you'll find it's more than just a local event; it's a blend of tradition and modern entertainment that caters to all ages. Located conveniently off I-90 in Ellensburg, the Kittitas County Fair offers easy access and plenty of parking. Whether exploring the Historical Frontier Village or enjoying the variety of carnival rides, there's something for everyone. 
- [Lost Discs, Found Community: Daisey James on Growing Disc Golf in Bellingham](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/daisey-james-disc-golf-in-bellingham/): When Daisey James picked up a disc during COVID, she didn’t plan on becoming a leader in Bellingham’s disc golf scene. Fast forward a few years, and she’s co-owner of Far From Par Disc Golf Pro Shop, president of the Whatcom Disc Golf Club, and the driving force behind a lost disc rescue service that has returned over 2,200 discs to their owners.
- [From Backyard Casting to Silver Bow Fly Shop: Sean Visintainer’s Spokane Story](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/silver-bow-fly-shop-sean-visintainers-spokane/): Sean Visintainer didn’t set out to build one of the Northwest’s most respected fly shops. He just loved fishing.
- [Brian Muegge’s Spokane](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/brian-muegges-spokane/): Spokane may be one of Washington’s most misunderstood cities—but not if Brian Muegge has anything to say about it.
- [From Hops to Habitat: Salmon Safe and the Quiet Conservation Movement Across the Northwest](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/salmon-safe-brian-muegge/): In this episode of the podcast, we spend time with Brian Muegge, Farm Program Manager at Salmon Safe, a nonprofit working to restore the health of our watersheds, one acre at a time. But this isn’t your typical top-down environmental effort. There’s no enforcement, no finger-pointing—just a growing network of farmers, developers, and even universities making voluntary changes to help salmon survive and thrive in the Pacific Northwest.
- [Visiting the Sequim Lavender Festival and Farms! in 2025](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/sequim-lavender-festival-2025/): Each year, Sequim on the Olympic Peninsula offers its Sequim Lavender Festival and in 2025, it is the weekend of July 18th-20th! The festival in the “Lavender Capital of North America” has three days of live music, hundreds of vendors at the Park, a food court, beer garden, farm tours, cut your own lavender, demonstrations at the farms and many lavender products for sale, made by the local farms!
- [Weekend Escape: A Riverfront Chalet in Leavenworth, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/riverfront-chalet-in-leavenworth/): The Riverfront Chalet (IG @theriverfrontchalet) offers an idyllic weekend escape for nature enthusiasts, adventurous families, and those seeking tranquility. This charming two-bedroom, two-bathroom cabin blends rustic charm with modern comforts, providing a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of Washington State, as well as visiting the charming Bavarian-inspired town of Leavenworth.
- [Brooks Smothers RV’ing Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/brooks-smothers-rving-washington/): When it comes to exploring Washington by RV, few people know the open road better than Brooks Smothers, host of the RV Out West podcast and the newly revived See America series. In this episode of What’s Your Washington?, Brooks takes us behind the wheel for a journey filled with music, memories, and a dash of adventure.
- [Discover the Price Sculpture Forest on Whidbey Island: Where Art and Nature Meet](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/price-sculpture-forest-whidbey-island/): Tucked away in the trees on Whidbey Island lies a place where imagination roams free and creativity is rooted in conservation. The Price Sculpture Forest isn’t a typical art gallery or nature preserve—it’s a living blend of both.
- [Connor Gross Wenatchee](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/connor-gross-wenatchee/): In this episode, we head to Wenatchee to catch up with Connor Gross, owner of Venture Barber Company and a proud local with deep roots in the community.
- [Mike DeMaio’s Bonney Lake](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/mike-demaios-bonney-lake/): For this episode we head to Bonney Lake for a quick chat with local mortgage lender Mike DeMaio, who shares a few personal highlights from life in this fast-growing corner of Pierce County.
- [Bob Antone’s North Bend](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/bob-antones-north-bend/): Nestled in the shadow of Mount Si, North Bend is a town with deep roots, rugged charm, and no shortage of character. In this episode of What’s Your Washington?, we sit down with North Bend native Bob Antone—a storyteller, artist, and lifelong local who brings the spirit of this mountain town to life.
- [Protecting Washington’s Parks and Wildlife: A Conversation with Dr. Andrea Thorpe](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washingtons-parks-and-andrea-thorpe/): Dr. Andrea Thorpe, Natural Resource Program Manager for Washington State Parks, plays a key role in protecting these fragile ecosystems. Her work spans everything from endangered shorebirds like the snowy plover—nesting right on our sandy beaches—to safeguarding habitats that support over 40% of the state’s threatened or endangered species.
- [Scott Price’s Whidbey Island](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/scott-prices-whidbey-island/): In this episode, we get a local’s perspective on the natural beauty and tight-knit community that make Whidbey Island so special. Scott Price shares why he and his wife chose Whidbey as their forever home after exploring much of the Pacific Northwest—and what’s kept them rooted ever since.
- [Dive, Bars, and Drinks: Tacoma’s Top 5 Dive Bars](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/tacomas-top-5-dive-bars/): As a scrappy college student, I ball on an obviously small budget. But just like in the restaurant scene, living in Tacoma gives us options. My boyfriend and I can still explore new places, experience different drinks and meet new people "on the cheap". So, after a bit of in-person sampling, here are the top 5 dive bars Tacoma has to offer:
- [Hailey Bohlman’s Seattle](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/hailey-bohlmans-seattle/): In this lively episode, wine educator Hailey Bohlman of Cork & Fizz shares her playful, personal take on Washington life. From rainy dog walks to her unwavering love of ferry rides, Hailey embraces the everyday joys of the Pacific Northwest.
- [Andrea Thorp’s Olympia](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/andrea-thorps-olympia/): Andrea Thorpe from Olympia shares her unique perspective on Washington’s capital city. Andrea shares how Olympia has managed to maintain its charming small-town vibe while embracing change, talks us through the perfect day for a first-time visitor—complete with scenic walks through Squaxin Park and the bustling local farmers market—and even reveals what she thinks would make the ultimate Olympia mascot.
- [Rochelle Robinson’s Bellingham](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/rochelle-robinsons-bellingham/): What does a city’s “dating profile” say about its personality? According to Rochelle Robinson, Bellingham would definitely have seven dogs, a horse, and a deep love for being outdoors. In this fun and fast-paced episode of What’s Your Washington?, Rochelle—an avid walker, nonprofit pro, and long-time Bellingham local—shares her unique take on what makes this northwest gem tick.
- [Champagne Sunday’s Tacoma](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/champagne-sundays-tacoma/): If you’ve ever taken the time to explore a state as diverse and colorful as Washington, chances are you’ve stumbled upon at least a few surprising moments. For Jessi and Jared Fredeen—better known as the dynamic duo behind the band Champagne Sunday—one such moment still stands out: spotting a camel in someone’s backyard in the outskirts of Port Orchard. That’s right, a camel.
- [Marlee Thiel’s Seattle](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/marlee-thiels-seattle/): UW grad student Marlee Thiel shares her favorite places—from the soaring Suzzallo Library to golden larches on Maple Pass Loop and tidepool magic at Shi Shi Beach. Plus, is the Seattle Freeze real? Find out in this refreshing What’s Your Washington episode.
- [Jennifer Hackett’s Ellensburg](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/jennifer-hacketts-ellensburg/): On this episode of What's Your Washington, I sat down with Jennifer Hackett from Ellensburg to explore what makes her town unique.
- [Chris Voigt’s Moses Lake](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/chris-voigts-moses-lake/): Ever wonder what makes Washington’s potato country so special? I sat down with Chris Voigt from the Washington Potato Commission to uncover the hidden stories of Moses Lake.
- [Paul Tolmé’s Seattle](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/paul-tolmes-seattle/): On this episode of What's Your Washington, we dive into Seattle's cycling culture with Paul Tolmé from the Cascade Bicycle Club.
- [Meet Chris Voigt Executive Director Washington State Potato Commission](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/chris-voigt-washington-potatoes/): In this episode, we go behind the scenes with Chris Voigt, Executive Director of the Washington State Potato Commission, to uncover the story of one of the state’s most iconic crops. From the nutrient-rich volcanic soil of the Columbia Basin to cutting-edge irrigation and logistics, Washington’s potato production is a masterclass in scale, efficiency, and innovation.
- [Inside Cascade Bicycle Club: Paul Tolmé on Epic Rides, Bold Advocacy & Real Change](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/paul-tolme-cascade-bicycle-club/): Meet Paul Tolmé, Content Strategy and Media Relations Manager at the Cascade Bicycle Club, for a lively conversation about biking across Washington—and how cycling is transforming lives, communities, and transportation policy.
- [How Jennifer Hackett Is Creating the Most Comprehensive Recreation Maps in Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/jennifer-hackett-recreation-maps/): Meet Jennifer Hackett, the force behind Northwest Portal—a one-of-a-kind platform mapping all of Washington’s recreation!
- [4 unique places on Whidbey Island](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/whidbey-island-4-unique-places/): Whidbey Island has many amazing locations like Deception Pass and the bridge, the Admiralty Head Lighthouse and its views, Fort Casey and its bunkers, historic Coupeville and its pier, artistic Langley and its amazing Whale Center, but there is much more to see on Whidbey Island! Here are four unique places that you have maybe never heard of! 
- [Whirling Through A Weekend In Whatcom County](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/whirling-through-a-weekend-in-whatcom-county/): Tucked into the northwest corner of the Evergreen State, Whatcom County’s 2,503 square miles have a well-earned reputation for epic Northwest beauty. While Birch Bay State Park, the Peace Arch in Blaine and Semiahmoo County Park may be better known, Whatcom County also offers hidden treasures of the lesser known variety. From parks and lakes to a picturesque small town and a nature reserve, here are six highlights.
- [From Cork Dork to Cork & Fizz: How Hailey Bohlman Is Making Wine Fun](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/cork-amp-fizz-hailey-bohlman/): Hailey Bohlman didn’t grow up surrounded by vineyards. She’s not a sommelier by training, nor did she set out to become a wine educator. But somewhere between a small town in Wisconsin and the rolling hills of Walla Walla, she found herself completely captivated by the world of wine—and decided to bring others along for the ride.
- [Fairfax Bridge near Mount Rainier National Park](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/fairfax-bridge/): After more than a century of service, the historic SR 165 Carbon River/Fairfax Bridge near Carbonado has officially closed for good. Originally opened in 1921, this narrow, single-lane bridge was a gateway for travelers heading toward Mount Rainier’s Mowich Lake entrance and Carbon River Ranger Station.
- [Exploring Fort Casey on Whidbey Island](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/exploring-fort-casey-on-whidbey-island/): Tucked away on the scenic shores of Whidbey Island, Washington, Fort Casey State Park offers visitors a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure! The fort’s gorgeous 999 acres sits within the Ebey’s Landing National Historic Reserve.
- [Rochelle Robinson and the Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/rochelle-robinson-cascadia/): In this Exploring Washington State Podcast episode, Scott sits down with Rochelle Robinson. Rochelle is a board member of the Cascadia International Women's Film Festival in Bellingham. She shares the festival's story and how it's making space for women filmmakers worldwide.
- [Seattle’s Best Spring Brunch Spots: Where to Eat in April](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/seattles-best-spring-brunch-spots/): Whether relaxing on a sunny patio, sipping local coffee in a cozy café, or digging into a plate of farm-fresh eggs, there’s a spot for you.From classic diners to hidden gems, this guide will help you find the best places to enjoy a spring brunch in the Emerald City.
- [The Ultimate Guide to the 2026 Skagit Valley Tulip Festival](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/skagit-valley-tulip-festival-guide/): Imagine walking through fields of bright red, yellow, and purple tulips. The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival runs from April 1,30, when the fields burst into color and spring is in full bloom. But here’s the secret: tulips don’t follow a strict schedule! Bloom times vary based on the weather, so checking the bloom map before visiting is the best way to catch the most vibrant fields. Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been before, this guide will help you have the best experience. Let’s explore what makes this festival so unique!
- [A Unique Sauna Experience with Wild Haus PNW](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/sauna-experience-wild-haus-pnw/): The Pacific Northwest is full of unique ways to enjoy the outdoors, but one of the most relaxing has to be the floating saunas from Wild Haus @WildHausPNW . I recently had the chance to experience one firsthand, and this is the ultimate relaxation-meets-adventure experience in the PNW!
- [20 Years of Grit, Glam & Gratitude with Champagne Sunday](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/champagne-sunday/): Jessi and Jared Fredeen are the powerhouse duo behind Champagne Sunday, a Tacoma-based band that’s been making music—and memories—together for two decades.
- [The Secret Life of UW’s Cherry Blossoms—What You Didn’t Know](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/marlee-theil/): Every spring, thousands of visitors visit the University of Washington's campus to witness one of the most breathtaking sights in Seattle—the iconic cherry blossoms in full bloom.
- [Six Easy Grays Harbor Trails To Warm Up Your Winter](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/six-easy-grays-harbor-trails/): The weather outside may be frightful, but outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty in Grays Harbor County that’s delightful.
- [Turning Trash Into Treasure: The 2 Million Cans Challenge with Jessica Alexanderson](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/jessica-alexanderson-recycling/): Jessica Alexanderson, better known as Scuba Jess. Jess previously joined the show to talk about her love for scuba diving and ocean conservation. This time, she’s trying to collect two million aluminum cans to support schools nationwide.
- [Inside Kells Irish Pub: A Legacy of Whiskey, Music, and Community](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kells-irish-pub-patrick-pearse-mcaleese/): Join us for an incredible conversation with Patrick Pearse McAleese, the heart and soul behind Seattle’s legendary Kells Irish Pub. We dive deep into the rich history of Kells, the origins of this iconic bar in Pike Place Market, and the unforgettable legacy it has built over four decades.
- [Visiting Othello for the Sandhill Crane Festival 2026](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/othello-sandhill-crane-festival/): NOTE: Article updated for the 2026 Sandhill Crane Festival March 20th, 21st and 22nd. 2026.
- [Hiking Cape Flattery and Shi Shi Beach](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/hiking-cape-flattery-and-shi-shi-beach/): On August 29, after a day of experiencing Makah Days and some of the other wonders Neah Bay and the West End have to offer, I headed down the coast to find Cape Flattery and Shi Shi Beach. Upon arriving in Neah Bay, I had made sure to stop in at one of the local businesses and pick up a recreational parking pass for an affordable ten bucks. If you purchase the pass at the local gas station in town, they will also pitch in a handy map that show you directly how to get to all the near attractions: including Shi Shi, Cape Flattery and Hobuck Beach.
- [Visiting Crystal Mountain for the Non-Skier or Snowboarder](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/crystal-mountain-non-snowboarder/): Crystal Mountain Ski Resort is highly regarded as one of the best hubs for outdoor winter recreation in Washington. But even if skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, Crystal Mountain can still be your place. Whether you're heading up to the mountain with friends who are skiing, or you're looking for a unique winter adventure, Crystal can still be for you. Read on for some sights, bites and activities that don’t involve skis or a board.
- [Hiking Hardy Falls and Pool of the Winds](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/hardy-falls-and-pool-of-the-winds/): I chose Hardy Falls and Pool of the Winds Falls in Beacon Rock State Park for my hike that day because the trail is relatively short (2.1 miles out and back) and I wasn’t sure how long I would have the gift of the sun. The trusty pup and I arrived around noon to the mostly empty parking lot, paid our parking fee ($10 for the day) and suited up for our walk.
- [Top 5 Places in Seattle for a Unique Cocktail Experience](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/top-5-places-in-seattle-for-a-unique-cocktail-experience/): Seattle is best known for its coffee scene, but the cocktail scene has been growing for quite some time and might be nearing its peak. There are tons of very cool and interesting bars all over the city and no matter what neighborhood you're exploring, you're bound to step foot in an amazing establishment. I recently moved to Seattle from Southwest Florida and after only a month, I quickly discovered how deprived I had been of a genuinely handcrafted cocktail! From classics with a twist to decked out bars to match their theme, here are the top five places in Seattle where you can have a unique cocktail experience!
- [Conquering the Klahhane Ridge Loop Trail](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/klahhane-ridge-loop-trail/): Looking for a challenging hike to tackle in the Olympic forest? Klahhane Ridge Loop Trail might be the fit for you! Explore Washington State Contributor Zac Blaylock recently conquered the Klahhane Ridge Loop Trail, closing out at 16 miles round-trip, with sweeping views of Mount Olympus, Port Angeles Harbor and Sequim Bay.
- [Hiking Washington’s Southern Coastal Route](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/hiking-washingtons-southern-coastal-route/): A good hike for the colder months ahead: that became my mission the last few weeks as I contemplated my upcoming article on hiking. I had recently gotten back from a trip up Sol Duc to Appleton Pass and The High Divide, and although wonderful in so many ways, I had also encountered the first snow of the season and some pretty chilly conditions.
- [Spending a Weekend in Yakima for Food and Wine Lovers](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/yakima-food-and-wine-lovers/): Where can you go in Washington when you’re in need of sunshine? My hubby and I head to Yakima, also known as the Palm Springs of Washington, as it is said to see sun 350 days of the year. Plus, with more than 90 wineries spanning 70 miles, Yakima Valley makes a fantastic destination for wine and food lovers.
- [Visiting Fortuity Cellars for Wine Tasting in Ellensburg](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/visiting-fortuity-cellars-in-ellensburg/): Ellensburg, Washington may be best known for its annual rodeo. Yet, the city recently celebrated twenty-five years of monthly art walks. It also has a burgeoning wine scene! In fact, wine and art come together at the Fortuity Cellars and Nuwave shared space that is a distinctive tasting room and art gallery combined. Plus, there are three other wine tasting rooms within walking distance on the same block.
- [Craft Beer Chronicles: Kendall Jones on the Past, Present, and Future of Washington Brewing](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kendall-jones/): In this episode of the Exploring Washington State Podcast, Scott Cowan welcomes Kendall Jones, founder of the Washington Beer Blog, to discuss the history and future of craft beer in Washington State. Kendall shares his journey from an aspiring rock star to a renowned voice in the beer community, weaving together stories of personal discovery, local breweries, and the unique character of Washington beer.
- [From Homeless to Harmonies: Meghanne Storey’s Music Journey](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/meghanne-storey/): Welcome back to another inspiring episode of the Exploring Washington State Podcast! This time, Scott Cowan sits down with Meghanne Storey, a talented musician with an extraordinary story of resilience, creativity, and passion. From her challenging beginnings on the streets of Seattle to becoming a celebrated artist, Meghan shares her incredible journey of triumph over adversity.
- [Tim Nyhus Ghost Towns, Abandoned Mines, and the Thrill of Discovery in Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/tim-nyhus-ghost-towns-abandoned-mines-and-the-thrill-of-discovery-in-washington/): Today’s guest is Tim Nyhus, a passionate explorer uncovering the hidden treasures of ghost towns and abandoned mines across the state.
- [From Chewed Leashes to a Thriving Business: How One Rescue Dog Inspired Bolder K9](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/bolder-k9/): Hey there, friends! In this episode of the Exploring Washington State podcast, your host Scott Cowan dives into a fun and heartwarming conversation with Jake Eberhart, the innovative mind behind Bolder K9 Jake shares his journey of moving to Washington, adopting a rescue pup, and turning a chewed-up leash into a thriving business that gives back to animal rescues and shelters.
- [From Tulips to Snowfields: What Makes Skagit County Perfect Year-Round](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/skagit-county-tourism/): In this episode, we explore Skagit County tourism through an in-depth conversation with Kristen Keltz, CEO of the Skagit County Tourism Bureau.
- [Spending A Day in Woodinville’s Schoolhouse District](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/woodinvilles-schoolhouse-district/): Editor's note, October 2026: Since this story ran, Pintxo by Valdemar, Ephesus Cafe & Gelato and the Walla Walla Steak Co. have all closed. Pintxo's space is now Jackson House, a restaurant and craft cocktail bar. For what's open around town now, see our Woodinville guide.
- [Live Music Lives Again: Joel Myrene’s Vision for Wenatchee’s Next Generation of Musicians](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/joel-myrene/): In this episode of the Exploring Washington State podcast, Scott Cowan sits down with Wenatchee local and music enthusiast Joel Myrene for a lively conversation packed with nostalgia, community spirit, and a love of live music. Recorded in the historic Wenatchee Prosperity Lodge 301, Joel takes us on a journey from his punk rock roots to his mission of reviving Wenatchee’s music scene today.
- [Visiting The Fremont Troll](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/visiting-the-fremont-troll/): When you consider visiting the Fremont Troll, you're stepping into a piece of Seattle's unique cultural tapestry. Nestled beneath the Aurora Bridge, this larger-than-life sculpture invites you to ponder its history and the community sentiment it embodies. To truly appreciate what the Troll represents, consider planning your visit at a time that allows for a quieter experience. But before you go, there's more to the story—like nearby attractions that can enrich your adventure. Curious about what else awaits in this vibrant neighborhood?
- [Winter in the Wild West](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/winter-in-winthrop/): Have you ever wanted to jump into a Christmas movie, where you settle into the simple aesthetic of a rural mountain town, flocked with snow, teeming with character as the warm glow of twinkling lights illuminate family-owned storefronts? The small town of Winthrop, Washington is just that place. A quaint, rustic community resting beside a glistening river that transforms into a whimsical wonderland as winter sets in. 
- [Visiting Cot’s Peak Coffee in Naches](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/visiting-cots-peak-coffee-in-naches/): Remarkable coffee is an essential part of any road trip. So, when Basalt Roasters popped up on my radar while planning a weekend getaway to Yakima Valley, a visit to the roastery landed on my itinerary. It’s located within Cot’s Peak Coffee in the town of Naches, just twenty minutes from downtown Yakima. Read on for more about our experience in the unique coffee house, and how to make the most of time spent in Naches.
- [70 Places for 70 Years: How Margot Kravette Turned Milestones into Masterpieces](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/margot-kravette/): This week, Scott sits down with Margot Kravette, an inspiring photographer and blogger who turned her milestone 70th birthday into a journey across Washington State.
- [The Heats Are Back: Steve Pearson on New Music, Old Memories, and What’s Next](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/the-heats-steve-pearson/): This week on the Exploring Washington State Podcast, we sit down with Steve Pearson—Seattle’s rock and roll legend.
- [Visiting Pintxo by Valdemar in Woodinville’s Schoolhouse District](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/visiting-pintxo-in-woodinville/): Editor's note, October 2026: Pintxo by Valdemar has closed. Its space in the Schoolhouse District is now Jackson House, a restaurant and craft cocktail bar. For what's open around town now, see our Woodinville guide.
- [Coffee, Cocktails, and Campfires: Secrets of RV Bliss With Brooks Smothers](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/rv-outwest-brooks-smothers/): Curious about RV life, jaw-dropping destinations, and why coffee and bourbon are central to camping? This week’s Exploring Washington State podcast delivers an unscripted chat between host Scott Cowan and RV enthusiast Brooks Smothers.
- [A Newbie’s Guide to Snowshoeing in Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/newbies-guide-snowshoeing-in-washington/): Have you ever gone snowshoeing trails during the winter? Washington State is full of seasonal snowshoe trails, from the Cascade Mountains to Central and Eastern Washington. Get started this winter with our beginner’s guide to snowshoeing in Washington.
- [Seattle’s Iconic Bartender Dennis Berg: Tales from 43 Years in the Space Needle](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/dennis-berg-space-needle/): Welcome to Exploring Washington State! Host Scott Cowan sits down with Dennis Berg, a bartender who’s called the Space Needle his workplace for an astounding 43 years.
- [6 Fun Beginner Snowshoe Hikes in Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/6-beginner-snowshoe-hikes-in-washington/): Which one of the 6 Fun Beginner Snowshoe Hikes in Washington are you going to try. first? Leave us a comment below.
- [The Wonderland Trail Just Got Better—Don’t Miss Tami Asars’ Updated Guide](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/the-wonderland-trail-tami-asars/): Prepare for an epic conversation with adventure, history, and quirky insights! In this episode of the Exploring Washington State Podcast, host Scott Cowan reunites with guest Tami Asars to discuss the second edition of her book, Hiking the Wonderland Trail. But this isn't just any trail story—it's a deep dive into one of Washington's most beloved trails, spanning 93 miles around the iconic Mount Rainier.
- [Deck the Docks: 20 Years of Holiday Magic at Alderbrook with Mark Phelan](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/mark-phelan/): Meet Mark Phelan, Director of Marketing at the stunning Alderbrook Resort and Spa. If you've ever wondered what it's like to work at one of Washington's most cherished destinations—or if you're seeking inspiration for your next getaway—this conversation is packed with insights, humor, and nostalgia.
- [Growing Trees, Growing Futures: Ecological Forestry with Kirk Hanson](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kirk-hanson/): In this episode, we talk with Kirk Hanson, Director of Forestry at the Northwest Natural Resource Group, about his journey from Minnesota to Washington State and his work in sustainable forestry.
- [Tacoma In Two Days: An Ambitious Itinerary](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/tacoma-in-two-days/): Planning a trip to Tacoma? Start with our complete Tacoma Visitor Guide →
- [Unlock Europe’s Hidden Trails with Cassandra Overby](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/cassandra-overby/): Cassandra Overby, author of "Home Base Hiking Europe," shares her journey from a business student to a writer inspired by her extensive travels. Rediscovering travel through hiking and connecting with locals, she found it more fulfilling than traditional sightseeing.
- [Small Town, Big Dreams: Jesse Baker on Expanding JET Hospitality’s Unique Retreats](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/jesse-baker-jet-hospitality/): Hello, friends, and welcome to the Exploring Washington State podcast. My name is Scott Cowan, and I'm the host of the show. Each episode, I have a conversation with an interesting guest who is living in or from Washington State. These are casual conversations with real and interesting people. I think you're gonna like the show. So let's jump right in with today's guest. Hey. So I'm sitting here with Jesse Baker.
- [Eight Hidden Gems to Discover in Washington National Parks](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/eight-hidden-gems-to-discover-in-washington-national-parks/): Here in the Evergreen State, we have a pretty great reputation for our mountains, our coffee and our rain. If that isn’t awesome enough, we are also fortunate enough to be the home to three National Parks! Each of these parks offers its own unique scenery, activities and vibes to enjoy. While Washington is definitely a place for avid hikers, not every adventure has to require lacing up the old hiking boots. So, what else do the National Parks regions in Washington have to offer? Here are eight adventures to enjoy in state #42.
- [A Weekend at Hood Canal with Mike’s Beach Resort / Olympic Oyster Co](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/a-weekend-at-hood-canal/): The Hood Canal, located between the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, is a beautiful area to visit year-round and perfect for PNW adventures.  It’s famous for marine life, oyster farms/aquaculture, charming small towns, and proximity to Olympic National Forest. The Hood Canal is a 2 hour drive from Seattle and 2.5 hours from Portland.
- [5 Killer Cafés in Seattle That Don’t Rhyme With “Arbucks”](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/5-killer-cafes-in-seattle/): So without further ado, here are five cafes in Seattle to get you started on your path to caffeinated enlightenment.
- [Hiking to Sol Duc Falls](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/hiking-to-sol-duc-falls/): Experience the beauty that is Sol Duc Falls! Learn all there is to know about the trail including how to get there, trail details, and more!
- [Exploring Washington’s Autumn: Photography, Adventure, and Life on a Boat with Lisa Mize](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/photography-with-lisa-mize/): Washington State is a photographer's paradise, offering a rich diversity of landscapes—from the North Cascades to the waters of Puget Sound. Photographer Lisa Mize captures this beauty while living full-time on a boat. In a recent Exploring Washington State Podcast episode, Lisa shared her photography journey and unique lifestyle.
- [Explore the Richness of Island-Inspired Coffee: An Interview with Chris Baldwin](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/chris-baldwin-island-time-coffee/): Our guest, Chris Baldwin, is a true craftsman. As a designer and artist by profession, Chris has always had a passion for branding, commercial art, and graphic design. His journey led him to Whidbey Island, where he combined his love of coffee with his background in design and marketing to create Island Time Coffee.
- [Photographing Autumn in Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/photographing-autumn-in-washington/): Can you feel it? Autumn is here and, in my opinion, the best season in Washington, certainly for photography! Grab your camera or your cell phone and let’s go on some road trips to capture the amazing fall colors that our state has to offer while you make some print worthy photos to hang on your wall or share on your social media! 
- [Take a Trip to Twisp](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/take-a-trip-to-twisp/): Located in the heart of the Methow Valley, Twisp Washington captivates visitors with its picturesque beauty and vibrant community spirit. The town of Twisp rests on the valley floor where the pristine waters of the Methow and Twisp rivers meet.
- [Spending a Day in Mount Vernon, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-day-in-mount-vernon/): Established in 1889, Mount Vernon is a small city located 60 miles north of Seattle. The city is often abbreviated as Mt. Vernon, WA by locals and visitors alike. Most visitors know Mount Vernon as home of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, held annually during spring in Skagit County. But there’s plenty to do here year-round. Mount Vernon’s historic downtown has seen extensive revitalization in recent years — its renovated riverwalk coupled with numerous small businesses and attractions will keep you occupied for the day or an entire weekend.
- [A Fall Weekend in Lake Chelan](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/a-fall-weekend-in-lake-chelan/): Lake Chelan is a popular summer destination for fun in the sun and water activities on the gorgeous 50-mile-long lake. But for anyone seeking a change of pace with less people, more affordable accommodations and beautiful foliage, fall is the perfect time for a weekend getaway! 
- [Discover the Story of ‘Seattle Samurai’: Kelly Goto’s Tribute to History](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/seattle-samurai-kelly-goto/): Kelly Goto is a trailblazing American entrepreneur renowned for her user experience design and contextual research. Kelly began using ethnography, where she was among the first to delve into this innovative approach, reshaping how we understand and improve user interactions.
- [The Top 6 Reasons To Live On A Boat In Puget Sound in 2024](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/six-reasons-live-on-a-boat-puget-sound/): The freedom I felt while purging to get ready to live on a boat was immeasurable! (Even if you do not plan to move onto a boat, I highly recommend purging unneeded stuff from your life. You can thank me later!)
- [Kelly Milner Halls – From Fossils to Sea Monsters: The Weird World of Children’s Books](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kelly-milner-halls-from-fossils-to-sea-monsters-the-weird-world-of-childrens-books/): In this episode, we're transported back to the dawn of prehistoric times as we accompany the passionate author, Kelly Milner Halls, on a thrilling adventure. Let's embark on a journey that uncovers the fascinating discovery of a T-Rex cousin right here in our own backyard.
- [Rainy And Cutthroat Lake: Exploring Two Accessible Trails Near The North Cascades Highway](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/two-accessible-trails-cascades-highway/): The two must-visit easily accessible trails are: first, Rainy Lake Trail and second, Cutthroat Lake Trail. 
- [Exploring Twisp & the Methow Valley: Fire Lookouts, Art Walks, and More with Juliet Kennedy](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/twisp-the-methow-valley-juliet-kennedy/): In this episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Juliet Kennedy, the marketing director for the Twisp Chamber of Commerce. Juliet shared her insider knowledge of the hidden gems and unique experiences in Twisp and the beautiful Methow Valley.
- [Discover the Magic of ‘River Songs’: Dive Into Steve Duda’s Fly Fishing Adventures!](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/discover-the-magic-of-river-songs-dive-into-steve-dudas-fly-fishing-adventures/): Meet Steve Duda. Originally from Detroit now living in Seattle. Steve is currently the Head of Fish Tales for Patagonia. Steve was introduced to Fly Fishing when he was listing in Boise. Quickly Fly Fishing "hooked" him. Moving to Seattle and working at the Rocket Magazine and Amazon Music Steve started writing about Fly Fishing. Steve has recently published his first book River Songs.
- [Exploring PenMet Parks](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/exploring-penmet-parks/): Observing nature at work helps me to reset my mind and gain a better perspective on the things that I can and can’t control. These days that’s more important than ever. When looking for peace of mind I always turn to the outdoors. In Gig Harbor that means PenMet Parks. 
- [Visiting Canter-Berry Farms: More Than Just a U-Pick Blueberry Farm](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/visiting-canter-berry-farms/): Along a winding country road beneath the shadow of Mt. Rainier lies a blueberry farm fondly known as Canter-Berry Farms. To the unknowing tourist, the farm appears to be an idyllic and tranquil spot to bring one’s family and spend time together gathering and grazing on blueberries. While this description is all true, what most don’t know is that Canter-Berry wasn’t always the farm’s name, nor was it always a blueberry farm. There is a rich and vibrant history to the landscape which lives on through the current owners, Doug and Clarissa Metzler-Cross.
- [Don’t Miss Out on the Kittitas County Fair! Insights from Kristina Paquette](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kittitas-county-fair-kristina-paquette/): Step right up, folks! In this episode of *Exploring Washington State*, we get the scoop from the delightful Kristina Paquette about her thrilling experiences at the Kittitas County Fair.
- [Must-Visit Yakima Valley Food Trucks](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/must-visit-yakima-valley-food-trucks/): It’s taken a long time for the food truck scene to come to fruition in the Yakima Valley. But right now, it’s fair to say, the food truck frenzy is at its peak. Sure, there’s been plenty of taco trucks spotted throughout the valley for years, but it took a while for others to begin branching out, embracing the idea of a mobile kitchen.
- [Drive the Kittitas County Barn Quilt Trail](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/the-kittitas-county-barn-quilt-trail/): The Kittitas County Barn Quilt Trail features more than 100 painted quilt squares up on barns from Roslyn to Ellensburg. While social distancing is in place, this is a great way to enjoy a day drive and a scavenger hunt activity. How many barn quilts can you find? The trail is self-guided, so you can map out your own journey. Soak in the beauty of Kittitas County!
- [Visiting Green Bluff Farms Near Spokane](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/visiting-green-bluff-farms-near-spokane/): Welcome to Green Bluff Farms, a bucolic collection of family farms diffused across roughly 12 square miles of sun-bathed rolling hills, just a few minutes outside Spokane. Founded in 1902 to bolster local berry farms against out-of-state competition, the Green Bluff Growers Association now comprises more than 30 farms, cultivating an extensive range of crops, and providing multiple other areas of seasonal and year-round interest for locals and tourists alike.
- [Spending a Weekend in Ellensburg](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/a-weekend-in-ellensburg/): If you need another reason to say “Yes” to a weekend in Ellensburg, check with the Ellensburg Downtown Association to learn about upcoming community events. The EDA hosts its own seasonal events like the Spring Girls Night Out, Children’s Day Downtown, Buskers in the Burg and more. It’s rare to find a weekend in Ellensburg where there’s not an event or activity happening somewhere in the city.
- [A Hike Through Federation Forest State Park](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/a-hike-through-federation-forest-state-park/): A few miles past Enumclaw, along the winding path carved by Route 410, Federation Forest State Park sits nestled by the mighty White River. Though perhaps not as showy or intimidating as other parks around Mt. Rainier, Federation Forest State Park offers a quiet refuge where families and hikers of all levels can enjoy the simple beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
- [Spending a Weekend on San Juan Island](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-weekend-on-san-juan-island/): San Juan Island sits in the northwest corner of Washington state, just across the water from Canada. Located three hours north of Seattle by car and ferry, San Juan Island hosts visitors from around the world. It is one of four islands in the San Juan Island archipelago served by the Washington State Ferry system. 
- [World Kite Museum in Long Beach, WA](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/world-kite-museum-long-beach-wa/): The answers to these and other interesting questions can be found at the World Kite Museum, along with examples of kites from many cultures and periods of history.
- [Spending a Weekend at Lake Quinault Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-weekend-at-lake-quinault/): “The lake between two rivers,” Lake Quinault is a glacially-carved lake situated at the edge of pristine temperate rainforest on the Olympic Peninsula. Lake Quinault is the ideal jumping-off point for Olympic National Park adventures. Olympic National Park is the perfect spot for exploring the pristine wilderness. It features snow-covered mountains, roaring rivers, and dense temperature rain forests.
- [Staying at The Hideout Cabin Near Mt. Baker](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/staying-at-the-hideout-cabin-near-mt-baker/): Washington state is wonderful in a lot of ways, but one of the many things that make the PNW the perfect place to call home is the impressive abundance of majestic wilderness, secluded nature, and awe-inspiring scenery on display within its state lines. My wife and I recently had the opportunity to visit a section of the state that we haven’t yet explored near Mt. Baker, and we had a very enjoyable, relaxing, and cozy stay at The Hideout cabin.
- [One Tank Trip to Ocean Shores and Back](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/one-tank-trip-to-ocean-shores-and-back/): Have you ever had a day where you wanted to do something but just didn’t know what to do? Or have you ever just wanted to get in the car to drive without knowing where to go, but just knew you wanted to go somewhere? We have, which has led to us wondering where we can go with just a one tank trip and a few bucks for food and fun.
- [Top 5 Lakes To Paddle In North Spokane](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/top-5-lakes-to-paddle-in-north-spokane/): 2024 is the year to explore close to home, and in the Spokane area we are luckier than most in that there are so many options for recreation. One great choice is to check out the lakes to paddle with your personal watercraft (PWC) — a kayak, stand-up paddleboard or, go old school with a canoe!
- [Spending a Day in La Conner](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-day-in-la-conner/): La Conner is an artsy waterfront community located on the Swinomish Channel in the Skagit Valley. Home to boutique shops, eateries, winery tasting rooms and a brewpub, it’s an ideal day trip destination from the Seattle area or Vancouver, BC. Spend a day walking the length of 1st Street and beyond to explore all that La Conner has to offer.
- [Gold Creek Park: Visiting the Pond](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/gold-creek-pond/): If you are looking for a short, accessible hike that offers stunning views of the water and mountains, look no further than Gold Creek Pond at Snoqualmie Pass.
- [The 7 Best Brunch Spots in Spokane](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/the-best-brunch-spots-in-spokane/): Spokane is known for its Riverfront Park and stunning architecture, but what about food? Join Explore Washington State contributor Molly Lindquist as she takes you on a journey through 7 of the best brunch spots in Spokane.
- [Edible Herbs and Wildflowers in Washington State](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/edible-herbs-wildflowers-in-washington/): Whether you’re looking for wild foods to enhance your diet or boost your immune system, there are edible plants all around the state for everyone to enjoy. While there are ample foraging opportunities year-round in Washington, spring is the ideal time to start venturing out in search of edible herbs and wildflowers. 
- [Creating Connections: Inside Gals Need Pals with Kinley and Lauren](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/gals-need-pals-kinley-lauren/): Let's dive into the world of Kinley Schmidt and Lauren Trivison, the passionate founders of Gals Need Pals, a community for women based in Spokane Washington.
- [Visiting Spokane’s South Perry Neighborhood](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/visiting-spokanes-south-perry-neighborhood/): If you head south from Spokane’s downtown, you’ll come across the vibrant South Perry neighborhood. Here you’ll find a wellness bar, a brewery, thrift shops, a bakery, a coffee shop, a pizza place, art galleries and a greenhouse. One of the best farmer's markets in Spokane occurs here on Thursday evening in summer and the annual South Perry Street Fair draws visitors from all over the area. But South Perry wasn’t always the inviting neighborhood that it is today. In fact, it’s the perfect example of a highly successful revitalization project spearheaded by local business owners.
- [Spending a Weekend in Yakima](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-weekend-in-yakima/): From the winding Yakima River Canyon to hilltop hop fields, vineyards and hiking trails, the Yakima Valley is a sweet escape for Washington sun-seekers. My family enjoyed a weekend in Yakima exploring the shrub-steppe trails and eating (and drinking) up the valley’s abundant agricultural goods. With outdoor dining in full swing, we spent nearly the entire trip outside. Here’s how to spend a weekend soaking up the sun in Yakima.  
- [Spending a Weekend in Seabrook](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-weekend-in-seabrook/): Other stores include a book shop, clothing stores, a general market, a sweet shop, and a toy store sure to have anything you may have forgotten to bring along with you on your weekend in Seabrook.  
- [Top 5 Places To Grab A Craft Beer In Renton](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/top-5-places-to-grab-a-beer-in-renton/): The Pacific Northwest is known nationwide for its ever-growing selection of craft beverage establishments, but up until a few short years ago, Renton had a distinct lack of craft breweries and watering holes. Not so anymore, with a small but impressive number of places popping up where you can get locally-made refreshments to slake your thirst. Here are my top five places to grab a craft beer in Renton.
- [Spending A Day In Poulsbo, WA](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-day-in-poulsbo/): II am ashamed to say that in the 18 years I’ve lived in Washington state, this is my first year exploring the magnificent Olympic Peninsula. The mountain views, ocean smell, outdoor activities, and charming marine towns are enchanting, and one particular marine town hooked my heart forever — Poulsbo in Kitsap county, Washington.  
- [Spending a Weekend in Willapa Bay](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-weekend-in-willapa-bay/): Washington State not only offers amazing cascade ranges to discover, but it also offers abundant coastal communities to explore and Willapa Bay is one of them. Situated along the Pacific Coast and separated by the Long Beach Peninsula, Willapa Bay provides great access to recreation, sightseeing and amazing seafood.
- [Visiting Afterglow Vista on San Juan Island](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/visiting-afterglow-vista-on-san-juan-island/): As many visitors to this page can probably identify with, I sometimes get a restlessness if I’m cradled in the mundane for too long. When this happens, I often turn to Atlas Obscura for travel inspiration to seek out unique destinations and avoid the crowds. When I read about Afterglow Vista, I knew I had to go. The family’s story, the majesty and sanctity of this hidden temple surrounded by nature, all of it drew me in. This is not a place one would expect to exist outside of a movie set. With cameras and coats donned, my partner and I set out to explore.
- [Visiting Five Hikes and Parks Around Spokane](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/five-hikes-and-parks-around-spokane/): The Eastern Washington cities of Spokane and Spokane Valley are surrounded by parks, trails and natural beauty. Here are five favorite parks and hikes around Spokane.
- [A Day on Vashon Island: Things To Do](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-day-on-vashon-island/): The rain was falling hard and a fading fog hung thirty feet above the dark Puget Sound waters—just enough light to see the giant metal mouth of the M/V Chetzemoka maneuvering in for a safe docking. Once aboard, most people stay in the cars. It’s a quick 20 minute sailing to Tahlequah. Today, I’m visiting Vashon Island.
- [The Basics Of Berry Foraging In Washington State](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/berry-foraging-in-washington-state/): Washington state has foraging opportunities year-round, but if you’ve got your heart set on picking wild berries, your best bet will be to venture out sometime between July and September. The abundance of the natural foods in this state is astounding, the list of berries alone is seemingly endless. Fruit-bearing plants in Washington range from commonly known berries like blueberries, huckleberries and strawberries to ones you might not immediately think to harvest like the Oregon grape, juniper and elderberry. No matter where you are in Washington you won’t have to travel far to find berries, and you don’t need to be an intrepid explorer to enjoy foraging here.
- [A Weekend in Ocean Shores, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/a-weekend-in-ocean-shores/): Ocean Shores, Washington State is the perfect destination for fun with the family, a romantic weekend, or a relaxing solo getaway. This charming ocean city is known for its long Pacific beach and fresh seafood. I’ve been to the city of Ocean Shores several times for gatherings with friends, and I always find something different to enjoy. With it only being a 2.5-hour drive from Seattle, it’s a winning choice for the weekend.
- [Spending a Day on Camano Island](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-day-on-camano-island/): Camano Island is near and dear to my heart. I moved to Washington in early October of 2019 and found myself living on Camano Island when I first arrived. I had never been to Washington or the Pacific Northwest, so it was quite the journey and Camano Island has become one of my favorite areas that I recommend to anyone visiting the islands. 
- [Spending a Day at Guemes Island](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-day-at-guemes-island/): Located across Guemes Channel from the city of Anacortes, Guemes Island is a relaxing place to get away for the day or weekend. A quieter, closer and cheaper alternative to the nearby San Juan Islands, Guemes’ appeal is its relaxed vibe and ease of access. You don’t need to make reservations or plan anything to have a nice time here. Simply show up, catch the ferry, and spend the day beachcombing, hiking or paddling. Enjoy a meal at the general store, then take the ferry home or spend the night. Guemes offers the best of the islands — classic saltwater views, a slower pace of life and no traffic lights — in an easy day trip from Anacortes.
- [A Guide to Visiting the Sequim Lavender Festival](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/visiting-the-sequim-lavender-festival/): The Sequim Lavender Festival in takes place every third weekend in July and is something you must see when visiting Washington in the Summer months. Walking through the lavender fields will immediately transport you to the French countryside; even the town of Sequim likes to refer to its lavender fields as “America’s Provence”. Aside from the beautiful view, the smell is just as nice! The lavender farms harvest throughout the season so you’ll catch a whiff of the delightful aroma as you walk through the rows of blooming lavender. 
- [Spending a Day in Kalama](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-day-in-kalama/): Have you ever been to Kalama? Have you even heard of Kalama? Chances are if you made the trip from Seattle to Portland you’ve passed by. The giant McMenamins lodge sitting along the Columbia River is hard to miss and it’s what originally attracted me to make the stop in this cute town. 
- [Exploring The Palouse](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/exploring-the-palouse/): When people not from the area think of the Palouse, oftentimes two things come to mind: Washington State Cougar football and golden wheat fields. And while it’s true, we do have both of those wonderful things, the Palouse is something of a hidden gem in Washington with one of the most unique landscapes in the northwest and plenty of other reasons to visit too.
- [Where To Go Kayaking in Eastern Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/go-kayaking-in-eastern-washington/): Both of these floats are about three and a half hours long. However, if you are looking for places to rent a raft or kayaking gear check out our article on rentals and tours. 
- [A Guide to Floating the Yakima River](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/a-guide-to-floating-the-yakima-river/): Attracting many kids and adults with its refreshing and smooth water, floating the Yakima River on a hot summer day is a great activity to add to your itinerary between the months of June and September. Grab your friends and family and we will help you with the rest. With this easy to follow guide, we will help make this the best experience possible.
- [Visit The Anacortes Community Forest](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/visit-the-anacortes-community-forest/): While this proclamation by John Muir might easily land on a Top 10 list of quotes you may see thrown around on Instagram, there is something to be said when such a line actually refers to a community's proverbial "back yard." Such a sentiment, combined with strong mental, emotional and spiritual connections, and further still, a tangible display of native flora, led to the initial conversation around what would become the Anacortes Community Forest Lands. 
- [Visiting Stehekin in the Spring](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/visiting-stehekin-in-the-spring/): Take advantage of the beauty Spring brings to Stehekin, Washington. Learn everything you'll need to pan your next trip!
- [Spending a Weekend at Red Mountain](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-weekend-at-red-mountain/): The first time my husband and I ventured to Red Mountain many years ago, we found ourselves pulling up to a house. Signs guided us through a sliding door and we ended up wine tasting in the basement of someone’s home. Things sure have changed since then.
- [Spending a Weekend in Anacortes, WA](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-weekend-in-anacortes/): Washington state has always been known for its natural wonders, cultural gems, and rainy coast. While all of that is absolutely wonderful, there are some very underrated pieces of the state that remain under the radar. One of these incredible places is in the town of Anacortes, WA located in the Pacific Northwest on Fidalgo Island. Locals from Washington State may have been to the San Juan Islands (accessible via ferry boat on Fidalgo), but few have actually explored or gotten out in Anacortes itself. This is an absolute shame because as far as towns go, this one is pretty much impossible to beat.
- [Spending a Weekend in Sequim](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-weekend-in-sequim/): Sequim is a vibrant small town located along the Olympic Peninsula, and it happens to be one of the driest cities in western Washington. Outdoor enthusiasts, seafood lovers and people who have a passion for everything lavender should definitely put Sequim on their list. There are so many adventures to be had year-round in this little town and surrounding areas. You can get started simply by spending a weekend in Sequim.
- [Turning the Wine World Upsidedown in Cle Elum](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/upsidedown-in-cle-elum/): Cle Elum is not only a destination for those who enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, it's a fun spot for wine and food lovers. Especially now that Seth and Audrey Kitzke have opened the inviting Upsidedown Wine tasting room in the city's charming downtown. Here's a run-down on Cle Elum, an introduction to Seth and Audrey Kitzke of Upsidedown Wine, and some insider recommendations from the couple on what to see during a visit to the town.
- [One Hour Birding in Olympia, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/one-hour-birding-in-olympia-washington/): Capitol Lake is an excellent place to try out birding in Olympia for a number of reasons. First, it’s right downtown so if you’re a tourist it’s easy to work it into your day and similarly, if you’re a local running errands around town it’s a nice pit stop. I also love this location because it can be anything you need it to be. If I’m feeling full of energy I can walk a lap or two around the lake and identify everything with binoculars, or if I’m tired I can set up a spotting scope and scan across the lake a few times.
- [A Day at Snoqualmie Falls](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/a-day-at-snoqualmie-falls/): Snoqualmie Falls is a beloved Washington Attraction. Go beyond the lookout and find places to eat, recreation, and more nearby!
- [Spending a Day in Seattle’s Georgetown](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spending-a-day-in-seattles-georgetown/): Considered Seattle’s oldest neighborhood, Georgetown visitors can enjoy the charming architecture, wine tasting and crave-able food.
- [Lessons in Resilience: A Conversation with “Dad, How Do I?” Creator Rob Kenney](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/dad-how-do-i-rob-kenney/): Rob Kenney's journey is a testament to the unpredictability of life's pathways. Starting his career in sales despite being an introvert, he embraced the challenges, demonstrating that sometimes, the greatest successes stem from unexpected beginnings. His willingness to pivot, adapt, and find success while navigating panic attacks and social anxiety is both admirable and relatable.
- [Hiking The Baker Lake Trail: Build Your Own Adventure](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/hiking-the-baker-lake-trail-build-your-own-adventure/): Looking for a hike that incorporates something for everyone to enjoy? Check out the Baker Lake trail in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The Baker Lake trail is a 15-mile long hike on the east side of glacier-fed Baker Lake below Mount Baker and Mount Shuskan. Fifteen miles sounds long, but the route itself is an easy walk, and can be made into a short family-friendly outing to the water and back or a 30-mile round-trip trail run for the more adventurous. This trail has so many ways to enjoy it. 
- [Explore the North Bank of the Columbia River Gorge](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/explore-the-north-bank-of-the-columbia-river-gorge/): Mention the words “Columbia Gorge” to Pacific Northwest (PNW) locals, and they’ll almost certainly bring up Multnomah Falls, Vista House, Rowena Crest, or some of the other well-known points of interest on the Oregon side. Not to say these sites are not impressive or lacking in any appeal to visit, but a river does not simply consist of one bank. Hop over instead to the Washington side, and you’ll find an equally scenic, yet oft-forgotten portion of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Extending 80 miles, the National Scenic Area encompasses the area roughly from Camas to east of Dallesport on the Washington side, with myriad options for nearly every type of adventurer to explore. 

## Pages
- [Washington in February](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-in-february/)
- [Washington in January](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-in-january/)
- [Washington in December](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-in-december/): December is Washington at its most festive: Leavenworth’s Bavarian Christmas, holiday lights and Christmas ships on Puget Sound, and ski season opening in the mountains.
- [Marysville, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/marysville/): Marysville, Washington guide: the Strawberry Festival, Ebey Waterfront Trail, Hibulb Cultural Center, Battle Creek golf, where to eat, stay and day trip.
- [Bothell, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/bothell/): Bothell, Washington guide: the Burke Gilman and Sammamish River trails, McMenamins Anderson School, Bothell Landing, Main Street food and where to stay.
- [Woodinville, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/woodinville/): Woodinville, Washington guide: 130+ wineries in four districts, Chateau Ste. Michelle, The Herbfarm, the Sammamish River Trail, festivals and hotels.
- [Prosser, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/prosser/): Prosser, Washington guide: Vintners Village wineries, the Great Prosser Balloon Rally, Chukar Cherries, Rainier cherry history, food and where to stay.
- [Eastern Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-regions/eastern/): Eastern Washington runs from the wheat country of Adams and Lincoln counties east to Spokane and the Idaho line, south through the rolling Palouse to Pullman, and north into the forested Selkirk Mountains and the Pend Oreille country. Spokane, the state's second largest city, is its center.
- [South Central Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-regions/south-central/): South Central Washington runs from the top of Snoqualmie Pass down through the Kittitas and Yakima valleys to the Tri-Cities, then east to Walla Walla and the Snake River at Clarkston. It is the heart of Washington wine country, with most of the nation's hops grown here too.
- [North Central Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-regions/north-central/): North Central Washington runs from the east slope of the Cascades across the Columbia River to the coulees of Grant County, and north through the Methow and Okanogan valleys to the Canadian border. It is orchard country, lake country and the sunny side of the mountains.
- [Southwest Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-regions/southwest/): Southwest Washington runs from the Long Beach Peninsula on the Pacific east along the Columbia River to the Gorge and Klickitat County, and north past Mount St. Helens to the farm towns of Lewis County. Vancouver anchors it, right across the river from Portland.
- [Olympic Peninsula and South Sound](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-regions/olympic/): The driest town on the Olympic Peninsula gets only 16 inches of rain per year, which is why 30 lavender farms…
- [Northwest Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-regions/northwest/): Northwest Washington runs from the Canadian border to the south end of King County, and from the San Juan Islands to the crest of the North Cascades. It holds the busiest cities in the state and, an hour or two beyond them, some of its wildest country.
- [Auburn Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/auburn/): Auburn, Washington guide: Emerald Downs, a free history museum, river trails, the November Veterans Parade, plus where to eat, stay and how to get here.
- [Washington in November](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-in-november/)
- [Washington in October](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-in-october/)
- [Washington’s Six Regions](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-regions/): Short answer: Washington has no single official set of regions. Explore Washington State uses six, taken from the Washington State Department of Transportation map: Northwest, Olympic, Southwest, North Central, South Central and Eastern. Geography classes teach five natural land regions, and the state's tourism organization uses seven travel regions. Each map is right for its own job.
- [The Washington Fall Bucket List](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/fall-bucket-list/): Twenty five things to do in Washington between the first cold morning and the last dry weekend. Ten for the clear days, eight for when it rains, and seven for while the harvest is still on.
- [Washington in September](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-in-september/)
- [Seattle](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/seattle/): Washington's largest city is really a dozen small ones stitched together by water, hills and a single freeway. Knowing which one to stand in is the whole trick.
- [Washington in August](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-in-august/)
- [Work With Us](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/work-with-us/): Explore Washington State is the travel brand locals and visitors trust for where to go and what to do across the state. Here is how we grow your business together.
- [Explore Washington State Card](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/explore-washington-state-card/): Join the waitlist. You get our weekly Washington travel newsletter today, and your place in line the day the Explore Washington State Card launches.
- [Washington in July](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-in-july/)
- [Become an EWS Card Partner](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/for-businesses/): The Explore Washington State Card is a free membership our readers carry as they travel the state. They show it at the businesses in our network for a genuine welcome, and a perk you choose. You say yes. We build everything else.
- [Fairs in Washington State](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/fairs-in-washington-state/): If you're building out your summer event calendar, Washington also has a full circuit of car shows running alongside fair season, with 51 events from April through October.
- [Orting](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/orting/): Your guide to Orting, Washington: Mount Rainier views, the Foothills Trail, High Cedars golf and the Daffodil Parade. What to do and where to stay.
- [Buckley](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/buckley/): Your guide to Buckley, Washington: the Buckley Log Show, Foothills Trail, Mud Mountain Dam and the Chinook Scenic Byway. What to do and where to stay.
- [Long Beach](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/long-beach/): Your guide to Long Beach, Washington: 28-mile drivable beach, Cape Disappointment, the World Kite Museum, and the Kite Festival. Things to do, where to stay, how to get there.
- [Yakima](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/yakima-washington/): Yakima is a working agricultural city surrounded by hop yards, vineyards, and basalt canyon walls. The food scene is genuinely good, the beer is world class (the valley grows 70 percent of the country's hops), and the Yakima River Canyon is one of the best drives in the state.
- [Tri-Cities](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/tri-cities/): Things to do in the Tri-Cities: Columbia Valley wine country, Hanford history, riverfront trails, and the best of Kennewick, Richland and Pasco.
- [Mount Vernon](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/mount-vernon/): Plan your visit to Mount Vernon, Washington: Skagit Valley tulip fields, a historic riverfront downtown, plus the best local places to eat and stay.
- [Forks](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/forks/): Plan your trip to Forks, Washington: Twilight filming sites, the Hoh Rainforest gateway, wild Pacific coast beaches, plus the best places to eat and stay.
- [Lake Chelan](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/lake-chelan/): Your guide to Lake Chelan, Washington: 55-mile lake, 30+ wineries, Slidewaters, Stehekin ferry, and Campbell's Resort. Things to do, where to stay, how to get there.
- [Washington in June](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-in-june/)
- [Day Trips from Seattle](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/day-trips-from-seattle/): A day trip from Seattle is any place you can reach in under two hours each way and still be home for dinner. This guide covers 21 of them, and if you are still deciding whether to leave the city at all, start with our guide to the best things to do in Seattle. Every distance and drive time below was checked, not estimated, and ferry crossings are listed separately from drive time because rolling them together is how guides end up lying to you.
- [Stevenson](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/stevenson/): Plan your visit to Stevenson, Washington: gateway to Beacon Rock and Skamania Lodge in the Columbia River Gorge, 45 minutes from Portland.
- [Chehalis](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/chehalis/): Explore Chehalis, Washington: Lewis County's Rose City with a historic railroad museum, the state's oldest standing church, and top eats off Interstate 5.
- [Roslyn, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/roslyn/): Discover Roslyn, Washington, a historic coal mining town turned charming destination made famous as the filming location for the TV show Northern Exposure. Explore craft beer at Roslyn Brewing, Suncadia Resort, and mountain trails.
- [Snohomish, Washington: Antique Shops, River Trails and the Northwest’s Most Walkable Historic Downtown](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/snohomish/): Explore Snohomish, Washington, the Antique Capital of the Northwest: more than 175 antique dealers, Lord Hill trails, Harvey Airfield events and where to stay.
- [Sumner, Washington: Rhubarb Pies, Daffodil Parades and Small Town Pierce County](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/sumner/): From abolitionist senators to rhubarb fields, Sumner has been writing its own story since the first wagon trains rolled through Naches Pass in 1853.
- [North Bend, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/north-bend/): Plan your visit to North Bend, WA. Discover Mount Si, Rattlesnake Ledge, Twin Falls, the Twin Peaks filming locations, and the best trails near Seattle.
- [Issaquah, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/issaquah/): Plan your visit to Issaquah, WA. Discover the Issaquah Alps trails, Salmon Days Festival, Gilman Village, the salmon hatchery, and the best dining near Seattle.
- [Kirkland Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kirkland/): Discover Kirkland, Washington, a charming Eastside city on the shores of Lake Washington. Explore waterfront parks, Lake Street dining and boutiques, local craft breweries, and the Cross Kirkland Corridor trail.
- [Everett](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/everett/): Explore Everett, Washington, a vibrant waterfront city in Snohomish County. From Boeing's famous factory and Jetty Island to a lively downtown arts and dining scene, Everett offers far more than most visitors expect.
- [Port Orchard](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/port-orchard/): Discover Port Orchard, Washington, a small waterfront city on the Kitsap Peninsula with a thriving arts community, beautiful bay views, and easy access by foot ferry from Bremerton.
- [Bremerton](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/bremerton/): Explore Bremerton, Washington, a waterfront city on the Kitsap Peninsula accessible by ferry from Seattle. Discover the Naval Museum, a walkable downtown arts scene, and sweeping Puget Sound views.
- [Bainbridge Island](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/bainbridge-island/): Plan your visit to Bainbridge Island, a scenic island community just a 35 minute ferry ride from downtown Seattle. Explore walkable Winslow, art galleries, local wineries, forested trails, and the stunning Bloedel Reserve.
- [Poulsbo](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/poulsbo/): Discover Poulsbo, Washington, a Nordic inspired village on Liberty Bay in the Kitsap Peninsula. Explore Scandinavian bakeries, a waterfront marina, a historic downtown, and breathtaking Olympic Mountain views across the bay.
- [Republic](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/republic/): Explore Republic, Washington, a small but remarkable town in Ferry County surrounded by the dramatic Kettle River Valley. Known for world class fossil hunting at Stonerose Interpretive Center, outdoor recreation, and authentic Pacific Northwest character.
- [Hood Canal](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/hood-canal/): Discover Hood Canal, a stunning natural fjord stretching over 60 miles along Washington's Olympic Peninsula. Enjoy shellfish harvesting, kayaking, fishing, and some of the most beautiful waterfront scenery in the Pacific Northwest.
- [Cle Elum](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/cle-elum/): Explore Cle Elum, Washington, a charming small city at the gateway to the eastern Cascades. Known for its historic downtown, proximity to Suncadia Resort, and world class skiing at Summit at Snoqualmie.
- [San Juan Islands](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/san-juan-islands/): Discover the San Juan Islands, a stunning archipelago in the northern Puget Sound accessible by Washington State Ferry. Explore whale watching, sea kayaking, lavender farms, and the charming towns of Friday Harbor and Eastsound.
- [Sequim](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/sequim/): Explore Sequim, Washington, the Lavender Capital of North America, nestled in the Olympic Peninsula rain shadow. Visit lavender farms, Olympic Game Farm, and Dungeness Spit, and enjoy more sunshine than almost anywhere else on the Peninsula.
- [Naches Valley](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/naches-valley/): Explore Naches Valley, Washington, a scenic agricultural valley west of Yakima known for apple orchards, award-winning wineries, and access to White Pass ski area and the Cascade foothills.
- [Winthrop](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/winthrop/): Your guide to Winthrop, Washington: a western town in the Methow Valley. Things to do, where to stay, the trails, the larches, and how to get there.
- [Olympic National Park](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/national-parks/olympic/)
- [Mount Rainier National Park](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/national-parks/mount-rainier/): Discover Mount Rainier National Park, home to Washington's iconic volcanic peak. Explore subalpine wildflower meadows, the historic Paradise Inn, Skyline Trail, and some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the Pacific Northwest.
- [Rodeos in Washington State: The Complete 2026 Guide](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/rodeos-in-washington-state/): Eastern Washington's summer event calendar runs deep. Our guide to Washington car shows covers 51 events including several in the Tri-Cities, Yakima, Spokane, and Walla Walla.
- [Washington in May](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-in-may/)
- [North Cascades National Park](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/national-parks/north-cascades/): North Cascades National Park is Washington's least visited national park and one of its most dramatic. With over 300 glaciers, ancient forests, and turquoise alpine lakes like Diablo Lake, the park offers some of the most rugged and remote wilderness in the lower 48 states. Use this guide to plan your visit: find the best trails, campgrounds, scenic drives, and seasonal tips for exploring the North Cascades. Whether you are a first-time visitor or returning for another season, North Cascades National Park rewards every level of adventurer.
- [Car Shows in Washington State 2026](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/car-shows-in-washington-state/)
- [Scott Cowan](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/scott-cowan/): Scott Cowan · Explore Washington State
- [Snoqualmie](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/snoqualmie/): Planning a trip to Snoqualmie, Washington? Whether you are searching for things to do in Snoqualmie or heading out on a day trip from Seattle, this guide covers everything worth seeing and doing in one of Washington State’s most scenic and welcoming small towns.
- [Whidbey Island](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/whidbey-island/): Explore Whidbey Island, the largest island in Puget Sound, just a short ferry ride from the mainland. Discover Deception Pass State Park, charming Langley, Fort Casey, local farms, and miles of peaceful coastal scenery.
- [Vashon Island](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/vashon-island/): Discover Vashon Island, a serene and artistic community in southern Puget Sound, accessible by ferry from Seattle, Tacoma, and West Seattle. Explore local farms, art galleries, a thriving food scene, and one of the most peaceful island escapes near the city.
- [Skagit Valley Tulip Festival](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/skagit-valley-tulip-festival/): The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is the largest tulip festival in the United States,and for good reason. Each spring, the flatlands south of Mount Vernon transform into a patchwork of blazing color: red, yellow, purple, pink, and white stretching all the way to the foothills of the Cascades. It’s one of those rare Washington experiences that lives up to every photograph.
- [Washington State Discover Pass: Complete 2026 Guide](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/explore-washington-state-discover-pass/): Washington has over 140 state parks, hundreds of miles of hiking trails, and boat launches up and down the coast. To park at any of them, you need a Washington State Discover Pass. This guide covers the price, where to buy it, 2026 free days, and everything else you need to know before your next trip.
- [HTML Sitemap](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/html-sitemap/)
- [Exploring Washington State Podcast](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/podcast-2/): Since 2020, the Exploring Washington State Podcast has featured over 340 conversations with the artists, entrepreneurs, historians, and makers who call Washington home. If you're curious about the stories behind the places, this podcast goes deeper than any travel guide.
- [Explore Washington State](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/): Day trips, weekend escapes, and outdoor adventures told by people who actually went there.
- [Leavenworth Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/leavenworth/): Explore Leavenworth, Washington, a Bavarian themed village tucked into the Cascade Mountains along the Wenatchee River. Known for Oktoberfest, Christmas lighting festivals, world class rock climbing, and stunning mountain scenery year-round.
- [Twisp, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/twisp-washington/): Your guide to Twisp, Washington: creative arts district, Nordic skiing, and the best of the Methow Valley. Things to do, where to stay, how to get there.
- [Bainbridge Island](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kitsap-county-washington/bainbridge-island/): You've probably heard of Bainbridge Island as a quaint getaway spot in Puget Sound, but what truly sets it apart? Beyond its scenic vistas and relaxed pace, the island harbors a vibrant arts scene that intermingles with the rich tapestry of local history. As you meander through the lush landscapes of The Grand Forest or peruse the unique boutiques downtown, you might find yourself intrigued by how the community balances modernity with tradition. What you may not expect are the hidden gems and stories waiting around each corner, inviting you to delve deeper. Why do residents cherish this island, and what secrets does it hold?
- [Coffee in Washington State](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/coffee-in-washington-state/): Coffee is big in Washington State. The oldest working Probat roaster on the planet fire roasts beans in Yacolt, a small town in the Clark County woods. The largest coffee chain in the world started in a storefront near Pike Place Market. Both of those are ours.
- [Renton Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/renton/): Discover the best things to do in Renton, Washington, an Eastside city where the Cedar River meets Lake Washington. From salmon watching and Boeing history to a walkable downtown and golf, Renton offers more than most visitors expect.
- [Astonishing Washington State Trivia](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/washington-state-trivia/): The Snake and the Columbia. The Corps of Discovery camped at the confluence near present day Pasco from October 16 to 18, 1805, mending gear and trading for food, and saw salmon by the hundreds of thousands. On the 17th, Clark and two men paddled about ten miles up the Columbia to look around. The campsite is now Sacajawea Historical State Park.
- [Spokane County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spokane-county-washington/): Spokane County is part of Eastern Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Grant County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/grant-county-washington/): In Grant County Washington, a tapestry of history weaves through the landscape, inviting you to explore stories of pioneers, innovation, and resilience. As you traverse the winding roads that lead to hidden gems and breathtaking vistas, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world where time seems to stand still, yet progress hums quietly in the background. The allure of this region lies not just in its picturesque scenery but in the untold tales that echo through its valleys and hills, beckoning you to uncover the secrets that Grant County holds.
- [Grays Harbor County](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/grays-harbor-county-washington/): Grays Harbor County is part of the Olympic Peninsula and South Sound, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Chelan County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/chelan-county-washington/): Chelan County is part of North Central Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Clallam County](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/clallam-county-washington/): Clallam County is part of the Olympic Peninsula and South Sound, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Clark County](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/clark-county-washington/): Clark County is part of Southwest Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Columbia County](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/columbia-county-washington/): Columbia County is part of South Central Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Douglas County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/douglas-county-washington/): Douglas County is part of North Central Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Garfield County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/garfield-county-washington/): Garfield County is part of South Central Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Island County](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/island-county-washington/): Island County is part of Northwest Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Jefferson County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/jefferson-county-washington/): Jefferson County is part of the Olympic Peninsula and South Sound, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Kitsap County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kitsap-county-washington/): Kitsap County is part of the Olympic Peninsula and South Sound, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Mason County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/mason-county-washington/): Mason County is part of the Olympic Peninsula and South Sound, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Pacific County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/pacific-county-washington/): Pacific County is part of Southwest Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [San Juan County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/san-juan-county-washington/): San Juan County is part of Northwest Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Skagit County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/skagit-county-washington/): Skagit County is part of Northwest Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Skamania County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/skamania-county-washington/): Skamania County is part of Southwest Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Stevens County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/stevens-county-washington/): Stevens County is part of Eastern Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Wahkiakum County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/wahkiakum-county-washington/): Wahkiakum County is part of Southwest Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Whitman County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/whitman-county/): Explore Whitman County where history whispers through the halls of iconic landmarks, and nature beckons with its serene beauty. Discover the allure of this region that seamlessly blends past and present, offering a tapestry of experiences waiting to be uncovered. From the tranquil trails of Kamiak Butte to the vibrant culinary scene, each corner of Whitman County holds a story worth unraveling. As you begin this journey, prepare to be captivated by the charm and diversity that this destination has to offer.
- [Richland, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/richland/): Richland, Washington guide: Manhattan Project history, Howard Amon Park, Red Mountain wine, the B Reactor tour status, festivals and how to get here.
- [Washington State Farmers Markets](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/farmers-markets/): Washington State Directory
- [Omak Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/okanogan-county-washington/omak-washington/): Omak Washington
- [Tieton](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/tieton/): Tieton is a small orchard town in the Yakima Valley foothills where artists turned old fruit warehouses into studios. Where to eat, stay and what to see.
- [Roslyn Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kittitas-county-washington/roslyn-washington/): Roslyn Washington, was founded in 1886 by Logan M. Bullet and named after Roslyn Delaware, quickly becoming a pivotal center for year-round outdoor activities. You'll find this town steeped in a historic past, primarily shaped by its coal mining industry. It wasn't just any mining town; it was one of the largest coal-producing areas in the United States at the time. This industry not only built the town but also brought together a diverse community of miners from around the world, adding a unique cultural layer to Roslyn's identity.
- [Olympia, Washington: A Complete Visitor’s Guide](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/olympia/): Explore Olympia, Washington, the state capital city on the southern tip of Puget Sound. Visit the Washington State Capitol Building, Percival Landing, the Farmers Market, and a vibrant arts and music scene.
- [Bellevue Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/bellevue/): Discover Bellevue, Washington, a dynamic Eastside city across Lake Washington from Seattle. Explore the Bellevue Botanical Garden, Bellevue Square, waterfront parks, and easy light rail access on the 2 Line.
- [Port Townsend Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/jefferson-county-washington/port-townsend/): Explore Port Townsend, Washington, a perfectly preserved Victorian seaport on the Olympic Peninsula. Discover stunning 19th century architecture, Fort Worden State Park, a vibrant arts community, and some of the best sailing in the Pacific Northwest.
- [About Us The Real Story](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/about-us/): Explore Washington State is an independent travel publication that helps Washington residents find places worth the drive. It covers small towns, state parks, coffee shops, trails and the independent businesses that make a town worth the trip. Explore Washington State is based in Wenatchee, Washington, was founded by Scott Cowan, and has published over 700 stories and podcast episodes in more than a decade.
- [Disclaimer Terms of Service](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/disclaimer-terms-of-service/): Updated on February 28, 2024
- [Adams County](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/adams-county/): Adams County is in Central East Washington State. The county was incorporated on November 28, 1883. Adams was formed out territory from Whitman County. Adams County is named after John Adams the second president of the United States. Adams County is adjacent to Lincoln County to the north, Whitman County to the east, Franklin County to the south, and Grant County to the west.  Adams County is approximately 1,930 Square Miles in Size.
- [Wenatchee Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/wenatchee/): Discover Wenatchee, the Apple Capital of the World, where the Columbia and Wenatchee rivers meet in the heart of Central Washington. Explore the Apple Blossom Festival, Ohme Gardens, river trails, and world class climbing in the surrounding Cascades.
- [Things To Do in Washington State](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/things-to-do-in-washington-state/): From Mount Rainier to the San Juan Islands, explore the best things to do in Washington State organized by region, by season, and by what you actually care about.
- [Franklin County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/franklin-county-washington/): Franklin County is part of South Central Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Recreation in Washington State](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/recreation/): Home » Recreation
- [Destinations in Washington State](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/destinations/): Home » Destinations
- [Food and Drinks](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/food-and-drinks/): Home » Food and Drinks
- [Privacy Policy](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/privacy-policy/): An anonymized string created from your email address (also called a hash) may be provided to the Gravatar service to see if you are using it. The Gravatar service privacy policy is available here: https://automattic.com/privacy/. After approval of your comment, your profile picture is visible to the public in the context of your comment.
- [Blaine Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/whatcom-county-washington/blaine-washington/): While small in size, Blaine Washington provides visitors and residents with plenty of activities. Ranging from a historical ferry tour, to parks and outdoor recreation, you will surely find something to keep you entertained.
- [Aberdeen, Washington: Things to Do, Where to Stay and How to Get There](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/aberdeen/): Originally named after a salmon cannery with Scottish roots, Aberdeen relies heavily on fishing, timber and tourism for it's economy. The town is a gateway to the Olympic Peninsula and the harsh weather that blows in from the coast has left it's mark on this hardy community.
- [Newport Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/pend-oreille-county-washington/newport-washington/): Newport Washington
- [White Salmon Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/white-salmon/): White Salmon Washington Upcoming Events in White Salmon
- [Goldendale Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/goldendale/): Goldendale Washington Upcoming Events in Goldendale
- [Longview Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/cowlitz-county-washington/longview-washington/): Longview Washington
- [Port Angeles: Things to Do, Where to Stay & How to Get There](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/clallam-county-washington/port-angeles-washington/): Explore Port Angeles, Washington, the gateway to Olympic National Park on the northern Olympic Peninsula. Discover Hurricane Ridge, the Elwha River, whale watching, and a scenic ferry connection to Victoria, British Columbia.
- [Mukilteo Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/snohomish-county-washington/mukilteo-washington/): Mukilteo Washington
- [Yakima, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/yakima-county-washington/yakima-washington/): As you explore Yakima County, you'll immerse yourself in a landscape rich with natural beauty and agricultural splendor. The county's diverse offerings extend beyond its scenic vistas and fruitful orchards, presenting a tapestry of experiences waiting to be unearthed. From outdoor enthusiasts to food connoisseurs, Yakima County has something to intrigue your interest and keep you engaged. So, whether you seek adventure in the great outdoors or wish to savor the local flavors, Yakima County has many surprises waiting to be uncovered.
- [Ritzville Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/adams-county/ritzville-washington/): Ritzville Washington Overview
- [Westport, Washington: Things to Do, Where to Stay and How to Get There](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/westport/): Upcoming Events in Westport
- [Cheney Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spokane-county-washington/cheney-washington/): Small, quiet college town just south of Spokane. More info here.
- [Enumclaw Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/enumclaw/): Plan your visit to Enumclaw, WA. Gateway to Crystal Mountain and Mount Rainier, with the King County Fair, Pro Rodeo, Scottish Highland Games, and hot air balloon rides.
- [Anacortes Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/skagit-county-washington/anacortes-washington/): Anacortes is a small community with a real hometown feel to it. Whether you are visiting to enjoy the vast nature and outdoor recreation options or to visit the farmers market- you are bound to fall in love with this serene town.
- [Centralia Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/centralia/): This small city is the perfect place if you love a close-knit community. Between Seattle and Portland, you are always close to a large city when the time calls.
- [Kent Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kent/): Plan your visit to Kent, Washington. Discover Lake Meridian Park, Pacific Raceways, accesso ShoWare Center, and the best international dining in South King County.
- [Cashmere Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/chelan-county-washington/cashmere-washington/): In Cashmere there are several wineries and at least one distillery. They also have river rafting, so the combination of these activities plus their museums - makes it a pretty family friendly destination (or place to stop at during a long drive.)
- [Yakima County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/yakima-county-washington/): Yakima County is part of South Central Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Snohomish County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/snohomish-county-washington/): Snohomish County is part of Northwest Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Pend Oreille County](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/pend-oreille-county-washington/): Pend Oreille County is part of Eastern Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Okanogan County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/okanogan-county-washington/): Okanogan County is part of North Central Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Lincoln County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/lincoln-county-washington/): Lincoln County is part of Eastern Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Lewis County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/lewis-county-washington/): Lewis County is part of Southwest Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Klickitat County](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/klickitat-county-washington/): Klickitat County is part of Southwest Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Ferry County](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/ferry-county-washington/): Ferry County is part of Eastern Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Cowlitz County](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/cowlitz-county-washington/): Cowlitz County is part of Southwest Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Asotin County](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/asotin-county-washington/): Asotin County is part of South Central Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Bonney Lake Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/bonney-lake-washington/): A growing city located 45 minutes south and slightly of Seattle, Bonney Lake is located on the popular 410 Hwy, which leads to Mt Rainier. Many stop off in the town on their way to and from the mountain, and the city has a great “local feel” from the friendly year-round residents.
- [Pasco Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/franklin-county-washington/pasco/): Pasco Washington
- [Kennewick, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kennewick-washington/): Kennewick, Washington guide: Columbia Park, the Clover Island lighthouse, the Cable Bridge, July hydroplanes, Kennewick Man history, food and hotels.
- [Benton County](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/benton-county-washington/): Benton County is part of South Central Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Pullman Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/pullman/): Discover Pullman, Washington, a dynamic college town in the Palouse Hills and home to Washington State University. Explore the WSU campus, rolling Palouse wheat country, craft breweries, and a lively downtown.
- [Spokane Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/spokane-county-washington/spokane/): Explore Spokane, Washington, the largest city in Eastern Washington and a gateway to the Inland Northwest. Discover Riverfront Park, Manito Park, the Spokane Riverwalk, and a thriving downtown arts and dining scene.
- [Vancouver Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/vancouver/): Vancouver Washington
- [Long Beach Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/pacific-county-washington/long-beach/): Long Beach Washington Upcoming Events in Long Beach
- [Moses Lake, Washington: Things to Do, Where to Stay and How to Get There](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/moses-lake/): Moses Lake Washington Upcoming Events in Moses Lake
- [Bellingham Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/whatcom-county-washington/bellingham/): Discover Bellingham, Washington, a vibrant waterfront city near the Canadian border at the edge of the Cascades and Puget Sound. Explore Whatcom Falls Park, Western Washington University, craft breweries, and the gateway to the San Juan Islands.
- [Whatcom County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/whatcom-county-washington/): Whatcom County is part of Northwest Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Ocean Shores Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/ocean-shores/): Explore Ocean Shores, Washington, a classic Pacific coast resort town on the North Beach of Grays Harbor County. Discover wide sandy beaches, ocean wildlife, kite flying, horseback riding, and dramatic coastal sunsets.
- [Walla Walla Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/walla-walla-county-washington/walla-walla/): Discover Walla Walla, Washington, one of the Pacific Northwest's most celebrated wine destinations. Explore world class wineries, the historic downtown, Fort Walla Walla Museum, and a walkable main street with excellent restaurants.
- [Walla Walla County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/walla-walla-county-washington/): Walla Walla County is part of South Central Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Federal Way Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/federal-way/): Plan your visit to Federal Way, WA. Discover Dash Point State Park, the free Pacific Bonsai Museum, Rhododendron Garden, and the best Korean food in South King County.
- [Puyallup Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/puyallup/): Explore Puyallup, Washington, home of the Washington State Fair and a charming downtown in the shadow of Mount Rainier. Discover seasonal farms, antique shops, the historic carousel, and easy access to Pierce County.
- [Ellensburg Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kittitas-county-washington/ellensburg/): Discover Ellensburg, Washington, a vibrant college town in the Kittitas Valley at the heart of Central Washington. Explore Central Washington University, the Ellensburg Rodeo, art galleries, and wide open high desert scenery.
- [Kittitas County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/kittitas-county-washington/): Kittitas County is part of South Central Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Anderson Island Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/anderson-island-washington/): Anderson Island is the southernmost island in Puget Sound and is located in Pierce County in Washington State. Access to Anderson Island is by a ferry operated by Piece County or by private boat. The ferry ride is approximately twenty minutes and is one of the most enjoyable ways we know to spend 20 minutes.
- [Maple Valley, Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/king-county-washington/maple-valley-washington/): Maple Valley, Washington guide: Lake Wilderness Park and Lodge, the Gnome Trail, the Cedar River Trail, golf, places to eat, festivals and where to stay.
- [Tacoma Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/tacoma/): Explore Tacoma, Washington, a cultural powerhouse on Commencement Bay in Puget Sound. Discover the Museum of Glass, Point Defiance Park and Zoo, the Tacoma Art Museum, and a walkable waterfront with sweeping mountain views.
- [Thurston County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/thurston-county-washington/): Thurston County is part of the Olympic Peninsula and South Sound, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [King County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/king-county-washington/): King County is part of Northwest Washington, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Pierce County Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/pierce-county-washington/): Pierce County is part of the Olympic Peninsula and South Sound, one of Washington's six travel regions. The region guide has every town guide, small town, state park and coffee roaster in it.
- [Gig Harbor Washington](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/gig-harbor/): Discover Gig Harbor, Washington, a picturesque waterfront town on Puget Sound known as the Gateway to the Olympic Peninsula. Explore the historic waterfront, local seafood restaurants, kayaking, and views of Mount Rainier across the harbor.

## 

## Categories
- [Art](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/destinations-to-explore-in-washington-state/museums/art/)
- [Beer](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/food-and-drink/beers-micro-breweries-and-tap-houses/)
- [Biking](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/recreation/summer-recreation-in-washington-state/biking-in-washington-state/)
- [Breakfast](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/food-and-drink/foodies/breakfast/)
- [Cider](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/food-and-drink/cider/)
- [Coffee](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/food-and-drink/coffee/)
- [Cross Country Skiing](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/recreation/winter-recreational-activities-in-washington-state/cross-country-skiing-in-washington-state/)
- [Dessert](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/food-and-drink/foodies/dessert/)
- [Destinations](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/destinations-to-explore-in-washington-state/): Washington State Destinations
Washington State packs more geographic variety into one state than almost anywhere else in the country. In a single weekend, you can wake up to ocean fog on the Pacific coast, drive through old growth rainforest, and fall asleep under the stars in the high desert east of the Cascades. That kind of range makes trip planning exciting, though it can occasionally feel overwhelming.

This section is where we have gathered every destination guide, weekend escape, day trip, and local find we have published across the state. Every post is written by someone who actually made the drive, not a sponsored itinerary or filler content. Real trips, real opinions, real Washington.

We cover all corners of the state: the wild beaches and rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula, the ferry accessible islands of Puget Sound, mountain towns like Leavenworth and Winthrop in the Cascades, the wine country and wide open spaces of Eastern Washington, and the day trip destinations within easy reach of Seattle. Whether you are planning a family vacation, a solo road trip, or a quick weekend getaway, you will find something worth bookmarking here.

Browse recent posts below, or use the county and city tags on any post to find more content from a specific area. Washington rewards the curious traveler and there is always another destination worth discovering.
- [Dinner](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/food-and-drink/foodies/dinner/)
- [Family Fun Day](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/recreation/family-fun-day/)
- [Festivals](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/festivals/)
- [Fishing](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/recreation/fishing/)
- [Food and Drink](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/food-and-drink/): Washington State Food and Drink
Washington State's food and drink scene has grown into something genuinely worth making a trip for. The same state that produces world class wines in the Walla Walla Valley and Yakima hop farms is also home to a craft brewery scene that punches above its weight, independent coffee roasters doing serious work, and a coastal seafood tradition that starts about as close to the source as you can get.

This section covers the eating and drinking side of exploring Washington. You will find restaurant recommendations, brewery and winery guides, coffee shops worth seeking out, food trucks worth tracking down, and the kind of local food finds that do not show up on national best of lists but should. Every post is written by someone who actually ordered the food and formed an opinion.

Washington is a genuinely interesting food state. The agricultural diversity east of the Cascades alone produces ingredients most other states can only import. Pair that with a Pacific coast seafood supply and a serious Pacific Northwest food culture and you have the conditions for some exceptional eating, whether you are in a city or a small town.

Browse recent posts below, or use the county tags to find food and drink recommendations near where you are headed.
- [Food Trucks](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/food-and-drink/foodies/food-trucks/)
- [Foodie](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/food-and-drink/foodies/)
- [Fun with Kids](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/fun-with-kids/): Fun Things To Do With Kids in Washington State
Traveling or exploring with kids means finding places that actually hold their attention, activities that do not wear out a parent, and experiences that create the kind of memories you are all still talking about years later. Washington State has more of those places than most families ever manage to find.

This section is where we gather everything we have found across the state that works well with kids in tow. You will find outdoor adventures, rainy day options, hands on museums, beaches that tolerate sand castle construction, trails short enough to hold a five year old's attention, and small town spots that surprise everyone in the car. Every post is written by someone who has actually been there with family.

Washington is genuinely one of the best states for family travel. The range of terrain means you can find the right fit for any age group and any season. A toddler and a ten year old can both have a great time in the same place if you know where to look, and a lot of those places are within easy driving distance of anywhere in the state.

Browse recent posts below or use the county tags to find activities near where you are headed. If you are planning a trip with younger kids, the things to do guides for individual cities and towns are a good place to start.
- [Golf](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/recreation/golf/)
- [Hiking](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/recreation/hiking-recreation/)
- [History](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/explore-washington-state-history/)
- [History and Culture](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/destinations-to-explore-in-washington-state/museums/history-and-culture/)
- [History and Museums](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/history-and-museums/)
- [Lunch](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/food-and-drink/foodies/lunch/)
- [Museums](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/destinations-to-explore-in-washington-state/museums/)
- [National Parks and Monuments](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/destinations-to-explore-in-washington-state/national-parks-and-monuments/)
- [North Cascades](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/north-cascades/)
- [Paddling](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/recreation/paddling/)
- [Places to See](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/destinations-to-explore-in-washington-state/places-to-see/)
- [Podcast](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/podcast-episodes/)
- [Recreation](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/recreation/): Washington State Outdoor Recreation
Washington State has more terrain for outdoor recreation than most people ever fully explore. Within a few hours of any major city, you can be on a remote alpine trail, launching a kayak into a calm bay, or skiing powder in the Cascades. The variety here is genuinely extraordinary and it rewards people who are willing to look a little further than the usual bucket list destinations.

This section covers the active side of exploring Washington. You will find trail reports and hiking guides, state park reviews, tips for water access points, winter recreation routes, coastal walks, wildlife viewing spots, and the kind of outdoor stops that are worth adding to any road trip. Every post is written by someone who made the trip and came back with a real opinion rather than a press release.

Whether you are planning a technical summit, a family friendly day hike, or just looking for a quiet beach walk, the content here covers a wide range of skill levels and seasons. Washington has something worth getting outside for in every month of the year.

Browse recent posts below, or use the activity and county tags to filter by what you are looking for. There is always more out there than most people get around to finding.
- [Roadside Attractions](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/destinations-to-explore-in-washington-state/roadside-attractions/)
- [Skiing](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/recreation/winter-recreational-activities-in-washington-state/skiing-in-washinhton-state/)
- [snowboarding](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/recreation/winter-recreational-activities-in-washington-state/snowboarding-in-washington-state/)
- [Spirits](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/food-and-drink/spirits-and-distilled-beverages/)
- [State Parks](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/destinations-to-explore-in-washington-state/washington-state-parks/)
- [Summer](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/recreation/summer-recreation-in-washington-state/)
- [Wildlife](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/wildlife/)
- [Wine](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/food-and-drink/wineries-and-vinyards/)
- [Winter](https://explorewashingtonstate.com/category/recreation/winter-recreational-activities-in-washington-state/)