Visitors come from around the world to check out the sights in Seattle. They love touring the Space Needle, seeing the workers toss fish at Pike Place Market, and grabbing a cup of coffee from one of the local shops.
As someone who lives in Seattle though, you may grow bored of those attractions and want to find new things to do on your days off. Consider the top 7 weekend trips from Seattle that are easy to plan and even easier to enjoy.
A tour we think you'll love
1) Head To Whidbey Island
You don’t need to go far to find some great islands around Seattle. Whidbey Island is a local favorite that has its own ferry to bring over visitors from the mainland. You’ll love that you can grab a bottle of wine at one of the vineyards as much as you like checking out some of the quaint parks and boutiques. This island is also home to Meerkerk Gardens, which is home to beautiful plants dating back to the 1960s.
2) Explore The San Juan Islands
Some of the best weekend getaways from Seattle include trips to the San Juan Islands. Take a ferry ride to reach the biggest island and see some of the best views of the Pacific Northwest on your journey.
It’s just as easy to hop on one of the tours that Emerald Isle Sailing Charters offers to enjoy the excitement of whale watching. The luxury tours depart from Deer Harbor, Orcas Island, and are the perfect way for an unforgettable adventure around The San Juan Islands.
3) Plan Weekend Getaways To Olympic National Park
Located in Port Angeles on the Olympic Peninsula, Olympic National Park is just one of the parks that is a short trip from Seattle. Spend some time along the beach as you check out the tidepools and the marine animals that live in them. This national park has tons of places for kayaking and canoeing as well as fishing.
Just make sure you get your license and bring the equipment you need. It also ranks as one of the best weekend getaways for outdoor lovers due to its camping sites. You’ll find multiple spots for couples, singles, and even groups. Reserve your spot online before your trip.
4) Visit Moran State Park
While it isn’t as big as the state’s national parks, Moran State Park offers plenty of things to do. Located on Orcas Island, it has nearly 40 miles of hiking trails that include some trails you can explore on your bike or on horseback.
Many of the historic buildings on-site date back to the Great Depression when the federal government paid workers to craft them. You’ll find more than 150 sites for camping and glamping and five lakes for fishing, swimming, and boating.
5) Enjoy A Romantic Getaway To Vancouver Island
You’ll feel the romance in the air when you plan a romantic weekend getaway to this island in British Columbia. Couples love working their way through The Butchart Gardens, which are a national historic site. Not far away is Horne Lake Caves. If you love hiking with your special someone, you’ll love the trails here and all of the places where you can enjoy some quiet time together.
Even if you’re not in the mood for romance, a weekend trip here still gives you loads of attractions to visit such as the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Wild Pacific Trail, and Beacon Hill Park.
6) Experience The Thrills Of Mount Rainier National Park
This national park offers the perfect excuse to hike Mount Rainier. Though you should check before planning your weekend escape, the park is usually open. Snag a backcountry permit to hike deep into the wilderness or camp overnight in the rough. Three other drive-in campgrounds within the park give you an easy way to travel with your RV.
Some of the top sights to see on your trip to this park include:
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Hiking trails that take one to eight hours to complete
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Climbing to the peak of Crystal Mountain
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Taking the Skyline Loop Trail to see impressive views
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Seeing the views of the Reflection Lakes
7) Venture To The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
Head south to Oregon to visit this national scenic area. From April through July, you can book a hiking permit in advance that lets you enjoy nature with your four-legged friends. It’s also easy to pick up a recreation pass that gives you full access to the area.
The BZ Launch Site & Trail gives you a good starting point for your trip with both trail access and a boat launch. Multnomah Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are two of the area’s most beautiful waterfalls. Also nearby is the historic Vista House at Crown Point.
You’ll Have An Amazing Time With Any Of These Weekend Trips From Seattle
These 7 weekend getaways from Seattle include just some of the fun things you can do. You may also want to visit North Cascades National Park, which is just under three hours from Seattle. Not only can you explore the North Cascades, but you’ll find trails, fishing and swimming areas, and skiing and snowboarding trails. Make sure you never miss out on the weekend trip you want with some advanced prep.
If you prefer a relaxing and rejuvenating journey, reach out to Emerald Isle Sailing Charters to book a luxury sailing charter around the San Juan Islands.
