Are you a Seattle local looking for something fun to do this weekend? Or someone planning an epic Seattle itinerary? Keep scrolling for my list of the best Seattle day trips that are less than a few hours away!
This list of Seattle day trips was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
As a Seattle local (born and raised), I’ve done a LOT of day trips from Seattle throughout my life. That’s because there are so many things to do within a few hours of the city.
I’ll list off my favorites with ideas of what to do and my insider tips and tricks for maximizing your Seattle day trips.
Don’t have time to read a bunch of Seattle blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Seattle with kids.
Popular Seattle Tours/Activities
- Seattle Harbor Cruise (it’s the best way to see the Seattle skyline)
- Pike Place Market Food Tour (it’s the easiest way to hit all the tasty highlights)
- Space Needle and Chihuly Glass Museum (this combo ticket is the cheapest option)
- Seattle Underground Walking Tour (this is perfect for older kids)
- Woodland Park Zoo (great for younger kiddos)
- Flytographer photo shoot (they are easy to book are really affordable)
Kid-Friendly Seattle Hotels
- Fairmont Olympic Hotel (an amazing luxury hotel that is perfect for families)
- Kimpton Hotel Monaco (convenient location with tons of family amenities)
- Inn at the Market (really cool location INSIDE Pike Place Market)
- Mayflower Park Hotel (easy to walk to tons of Seattle attractions)
17 Best Seattle Day Trips Worth Doing ASAP
Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is a fantastic day trip from Seattle, offering a diverse range of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.
With its sprawling forests, rugged coastline, and towering mountains, the park offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors.
Here are a few reasons why Olympic National Park is a great Seattle day trip:
Beachcombing
Explore the park’s stunning beaches, including Ruby Beach and Rialto Beach, and search for unique coastal treasures like driftwood and sea glass.
River Rafting
Take a guided rafting trip down one of the park’s many rivers, including the Hoh River and the Sol Duc River.
Rainforest Exploration
Explore the park’s lush and diverse rainforest, including the Hoh Rainforest and the Quinault Rainforest, and discover towering trees, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
The Hoh Rainforest is one of the largest temperate rainforests in the United States. It is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including towering Douglas fir trees, moss-covered boulders, and Olympic marmots.
Mountain Climbing
Challenge yourself to summit one of the park’s many peaks, including Mount Olympus, Mount Deception, and Mount Constance.
Kayaking
Paddle the park’s many waterways, including Lake Crescent and Lake Quinault, and discover the park’s stunning scenery from a different perspective.
Wildlife Viewing
The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, elk, deer, and a variety of bird species, making it a great destination for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
Where to Eat at Olympic National Park
Lake Crescent Lodge Restaurant offers a stunning view of Lake Crescent, and it serves classic American fare like burgers, steaks, and seafood.
Salmon House Restaurant is located in the heart of Olympic National Park, and it serves fresh, locally-sourced seafood.
Olympic National Park Distance from Seattle
A Seattle to Olympic National Park day trip should only take 2 hours of driving in each direction.
Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park is a fantastic day trip destination for families, offering a wealth of outdoor recreation and natural beauty to explore.
Here are a few reasons why families should consider taking a Seattle day trip to Mount Rainier National Park:
Scenic Drives
Take a scenic drive through the park, including the Paradise Loop Road and the Sunrise Loop Road, and enjoy breathtaking views of the mountain and surrounding landscape.
Just seeing the gorgeous waterfalls makes this one of the best day trips from Seattle, in my opinion.
Wildflower Viewing
Visit the park in the summer and enjoy breathtaking displays of wildflowers, including lupine, Indian paintbrush, and columbine. A Mt. Rainier day trip from Seattle in the summertime is pretty memorable.
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing
Enjoy the park’s winter landscape, with opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the Paradise and Sunrise areas.
Ranger-Led Programs
Participate in ranger-led programs, including guided hikes, wildlife walks, and campfire programs, and learn about the park’s history and ecology.
Family-Friendly Trails
The park features a variety of family-friendly trails, including easy hikes and nature walks, providing opportunities for families to explore the park together.
It’s easy to add a few short hikes on your Mount Rainier day trip from Seattle.
Wildlife Viewing
Mount Rainier National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, elk, and marmots, making it a great destination for families who enjoy wildlife viewing.
Mount Rainier National Park Distance from Seattle
A day trip to Mt. Rainier from Seattle typically takes around 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
North Cascades National Park & Diablo Lake
North Cascades National Park and Diablo Lake are must-visit destinations for anyone visiting the Pacific Northwest, and a day trip from Seattle is the perfect way to experience their stunning beauty.
Here are a few reasons why visitors should plan a day trip to North Cascades National Park and Diablo Lake:
Unsurpassed Beauty
The North Cascades are known for their rugged peaks, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes, making them a breathtaking destination for visitors.
Diablo Lake, with its stunning turquoise waters surrounded by towering peaks, is a standout feature of the park.
Mountain Climbing
Challenge yourself to summit one of the park’s many peaks, including Mount Shuksan and Mount Baker, with guided climbing trips available.
Lake Activities
Enjoy the park’s beautiful lakes, including Diablo Lake and Ross Lake, with opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking.
Waterfall Viewing
Explore the park’s many waterfalls, including Ladder Creek Falls and Thunder Creek Falls, and enjoy the stunning scenery of cascading water.
You’ll definitely want to hike to see some of these beautiful Washington State waterfalls.
Outdoor Recreation
The park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking, making it a great destination for visitors who enjoy the great outdoors.
Scenic Drives
The drive to North Cascades National Park and Diablo Lake is itself a scenic journey, taking visitors through picturesque towns and stunning mountain landscapes.
Wildlife Viewing
The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, mountain goats, and a variety of bird species, making it a great destination for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
North Cascades National Park Distance from Seattle
The drive from Seattle to North Cascades National Park typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Bainbridge Island
A popular day trip destination from Seattle, Bainbridge Island is easily accessible by ferry. This makes it an ideal choice for visitors looking for a unique and scenic experience.
Here are a few reasons why Bainbridge Island is such an easy day trip from Seattle that includes a ferry ride:
Outdoor Recreation
Bainbridge Island is home to numerous parks and beaches, offering visitors a chance to enjoy outdoor recreation and scenic beauty.
The Bloedel Reserve is a beautiful place to go hiking. There are many hiking trails to choose from, and there are many beautiful views of Puget Sound.
Small-Town Charm
Bainbridge Island is a charming and historic town, known for its Victorian homes, tree-lined streets, and independent shops and restaurants.
Restaurant Marchéserves French cuisine in a casual setting. Pegasus Coffee Roasters offers amazing coffee, espresso, and pastries.
You can also find a variety of food trucks and cafes throughout the island, serving everything from snacks and sandwiches to ice cream and pizza.
Scenic Ferry Ride
The ferry ride to Bainbridge Island is a scenic journey, offering stunning views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the Seattle skyline. It’s one of the easiest Seattle day trips by ferry.
If you time it just right, you can get a gorgeous sunset view on your way home.
Bainbridge Island Historical Museum
The Bainbridge Island Historical Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Bainbridge Island. The museum has a variety of exhibits, and it also offers classes and workshops.
Wine Tasting
The island is also home to several wineries, offering visitors a chance to sample local wines and learn about the Pacific Northwest’s wine-making traditions.
Bainbridge Island Museum of Art
The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art is a great place to learn about art and culture. The museum has a variety of exhibits, and it also offers classes and workshops.
Bainbridge Island Distance from Seattle
Bainbridge Island is just a 35-minute ferry ride from Seattle, making it an easy and convenient destination for a day trip.
Deception Pass State Park
Deception Pass State Park is a popular day trip destination from Seattle, offering a unique and memorable experience for visitors.
Here are a few reasons why Deception Pass State Park is one of the best Seattle day trips:
Natural Beauty
Deception Pass State Park is known for its stunning beauty, featuring rugged cliffs, dense forests, and turquoise waters, making it a breathtaking destination for visitors.
Beachcombing
Explore the park’s stunning beaches, including Bowman Bay and West Beach, and search for unique coastal treasures like driftwood and sea glass.
Scenic Bridge
The Deception Pass Bridge is a standout feature of the park, offering stunning views of the surrounding waters and landscapes.
You can hike to the bottom of the bridge or park at the top and and walk across it. There are plenty of parking spots either way.
Fishing
Try your hand at fishing in the park’s many waterways, including Deception Pass and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and catch a variety of fish species.
Wildlife Viewing
Deception Pass State Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bald eagles, sea lions, and a variety of bird species, making it a great destination for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
Where to Eat
If you’re taking the Mukilteo Ferry, head to Captain Whidbey Restaurant in Coupeville. This restaurant serves American fare like burgers, steaks, and seafood.
Another option is The Shrimp Shack in Oak Harbor. This restaurant serves seafood, burgers, and fries at a roadside stand.
Deception Pass State Park Distance from Seattle
Deception Pass State Park is just a 2-hour drive from downtown Seattle, making it an easily accessible destination for a day trip.
Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island is a charming and picturesque destination, making it a popular day trip destination from Seattle.
Here are a few reasons why Whidbey Island is worthy of a Seattle day trip:
Scenic Beauty
Whidbey Island is known for its stunning landscapes, featuring rolling hills, lush forests, and a stunning coastline, making it a breathtaking destination for visitors.
Coupeville Lavender Festival
The Coupeville Lavender Festival is a popular festival that celebrates lavender. There are lavender fields to explore, lavender products to buy, and lavender-themed food and drinks to enjoy.
Outdoor Recreation
The island offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking, making it a great destination for visitors who enjoy the great outdoors.
Beachcombing
Explore the island’s stunning beaches, including Double Bluff Beach and Sunnyside Beach, and search for unique coastal treasures like driftwood and sea glass.
Whidbey Island is also pretty famous for its hidden rocks. Residents paint a bunch of rocks and hide them all over the island for people to find.
This is one of the many fun things to do on Whidbey Island with kids.
Small-Town Charm
Whidbey Island is home to several charming and historic towns, offering visitors a chance to experience the island’s unique and friendly atmosphere.
The Orchard Kitchen is a farm-to-table restaurant that serves seasonal dishes made with ingredients from local farms.
Wine Tasting
Whidbey Island is home to several wineries, offering visitors a chance to sample local wines and learn about the Pacific Northwest’s wine-making traditions. We recommend Whidbey Island Winery and Whidbey Pies to sample local wines and cuisine.
Whidbey Island Distance from Seattle
The drive from Seattle to the ferry terminal at Mukilteo, which provides access to Whidbey Island, typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. Then, it’s just a short 20-25 minute ferry ride.
Gig Harbor
Gig Harbor is a charming and picturesque destination, making it a popular day trip destination from Seattle.
If you want to extend your trip, it’s really easy to combine Gig Harbor, Tacoma, and Sumner into a Washington weekend getaway.
Here are a few reasons why people should take a day trip to Gig Harbor:
Scenic Beauty
Gig Harbor is known for its stunning landscapes, featuring rolling hills, lush forests, and stunning waterways, making it a breathtaking destination for visitors.
Art and Culture
Enjoy the harbor’s vibrant art and cultural scene, with opportunities for visiting galleries, theaters, and festivals, including the Gig Harbor Art Walk and the Gig Harbor Farmers Market.
Gig Harbor Gondola
The Gig Harbor Gondola is a fun way to see the city from a different perspective. The gondola offers stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
We did this a few years ago and my kids are STILL talking about it!
Shopping and Dining
Explore the harbor’s many shops and restaurants, including the Gig Harbor Farmers Market and the Uptown Gig Harbor shopping district.
Brix 25° serves American cuisine with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. Tides Tavern is located on the waterfront and serves seafood, steak, and pasta.
Outdoor Recreation
The town and surrounding area offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, and boating, making it a great destination for visitors who enjoy the great outdoors.
Gig Harbor Distance from Seattle
The drive from Seattle to Gig Harbor typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour.
Port Angeles
A charming and scenic destination, Port Angeles a popular day trip destination from Seattle.
Here are a few reasons why Port Angeles is a good Seattle day trip:
Scenic Beauty
Port Angeles is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, featuring rolling hills, lush forests, and the Olympic Mountains, making it a breathtaking destination for visitors.
Art and Culture
Enjoy the area’s vibrant art and cultural scene, with opportunities for visiting galleries, theaters, and festivals, including the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center and the Olympic Music Festival.
Boating and Kayaking
Enjoy the area’s beautiful waters, with opportunities for boating and kayaking, including Port Angeles Harbor and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Port Angeles is a great place to go whale watching in the summer. There are many companies that offer whale-watching tours, and there are many species of whales that can be seen in the waters around Port Angeles.
Shopping and Dining
Explore the area’s many shops and restaurants, including the Port Angeles Farmers Market and the downtown shopping district.
We recommend Granny’s Cafe, which serves American fare like breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual setting.
Historic Charm
Port Angeles is a historic town, known for its well-preserved Victorian homes and charming downtown area. Visitors love walking down the streets and soaking in all the history.
Port Angeles Distance from Seattle
Port Angeles is just a 2-hour drive from Seattle, making it an easily accessible destination for a day trip.
Snoqualmie Falls
This is a stunning waterfall located just a short drive from Seattle, making it an easy and convenient day trip destination.
Here are a few reasons why Snoqualmie Falls is an easy Seattle day trip:
Natural Beauty
The falls are a breathtaking sight, cascading 268 feet into a deep pool surrounded by lush greenery, making it a must-visit destination for visitors.
Hiking
Explore the surrounding landscapes on foot, with trails ranging from easy walks to strenuous backcountry adventures, including the Snoqualmie Falls Trail and the Snoqualmie Falls Forest Theater.
Lunch at The Dining Room at Salish Lodge & Spa
This restaurant serves Pacific Northwest cuisine with flavors that sing the virtues of local and homegrown, using the best ingredients and refined cooking techniques.
We’ve done brunch here and it’s quite a special experience. Salish Lodge is also a great romantic getaway.
Take a Train Ride to the Falls
The Snoqualmie Valley Railroad offers a train ride to Snoqualmie Falls. The train ride departs from North Bend and takes about 15 minutes to reach the falls.
Easy Accessibility
Snoqualmie Falls is easily accessible, with a well-maintained trail leading down to the viewing platform, providing visitors with stunning views of the falls.
Educational Opportunities
Snoqualmie Falls provides educational opportunities for visitors, including interpretive displays and ranger-led programs, helping visitors to learn about the area’s natural and cultural history.
Explore the area’s rich history, including the Snoqualmie Falls Hydroelectric Plant and the Snoqualmie Falls Visitor Center.
Distance from Seattle to Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie Falls is just a 30-minute drive from Seattle, making it an easily accessible destination for a day trip.
Leavenworth
Leavenworth is a charming and picturesque destination, making it a popular day trip destination from Seattle.
Here are a few reasons why Leavenworth is one of the best Seattle day trips:
Bavarian Charm
Leavenworth is a historic town that has transformed itself into a Bavarian-style village, offering visitors a unique and charming atmosphere.
This will probably be the highlight of your Leavenworth day trip from Seattle.
Scenic Beauty
Leavenworth is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, featuring rolling hills, lush forests, and the Cascade Mountains, making it a breathtaking destination for visitors.
Christmas Town
Leavenworth is the most famous winter day trip from Seattle because it’s known as the most Christmas-y town in the United States.
There are nightly tree-lighting ceremonies, parades, holiday festivities, sleigh rides, and so much more!
Art and Culture
Enjoy the town’s vibrant art and cultural scene, with opportunities for visiting galleries, theaters, and festivals, including the Leavenworth Oktoberfest and the Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration.
The Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum is a museum dedicated to the history and tradition of the Nutcracker. The museum has a collection of over 4,000 nutcrackers from around the world.
Outdoor Recreation
The town and surrounding area offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, and skiing, making it a great destination for visitors who enjoy the great outdoors.
Local Cuisine
Leavenworth is home to a variety of local restaurants, offering visitors a chance to sample delicious local cuisine, including authentic Bavarian dishes.
Andreas Keller serves traditional Bavarian cuisine in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Other good options include Munich Haus, Leavenworth Sausage Garten, and Yodelin Broth Company.
Spa Experiences
Relax and rejuvenate with a spa experience, including the Spa at Icicle Village and the Spa at Sleeping Lady.
Leavenworth Distance from Seattle
It should only take 2 hours of driving for a Seattle to Leavenworth day trip.
Woodinville
Woodinville is a charming and picturesque destination, known for its wine country, making it a popular day trip destination from Seattle.
Here are a few reasons why Woodinville is one of the top day trips near Seattle:
Wine Country
Woodinville is home to over 100 wineries, making it a popular destination for wine lovers.
There are many ways to experience the Woodinville Wine Country, including taking a wine tour, attending a wine tasting, or simply visiting a winery to sample the wines.
We recommend visiting Chateau Ste. Michelle and the Columbia Winery, as well as smaller wineries in town.
Scenic Beauty
The town is surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests, making it a breathtaking destination for visitors.
Local Cuisine
Woodinville is home to a few destination-worthy restaurants that require advanced reservations.
Barking Frog is a Woodinville institution, serving American cuisine with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients.
The Herbfarm is a Michelin-starred fine-dining establishment that serves a tasting menu of seasonal dishes.
Unique Shopping
Woodinville is home to a variety of unique shops, offering visitors a chance to browse local artisan goods and one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Spa Experiences
Relax and rejuvenate with a spa experience, including the Woodinville Spa and the Willows Lodge.
Woodinville Distance from Seattle
Woodinville is just a 30-minute drive from Seattle, making it an easily accessible destination for a day trip.
Tacoma
Tacoma is a vibrant and diverse city, located just a short drive from Seattle, making it a popular day trip destination. There are tons of things to do in Tacoma with kids, too.
Here are a few reasons why Tacoma is a worthy Seattle day trip:
Go to a Concert or Show
Tacoma has a vibrant arts scene, and there are many concerts and shows to choose from. There are also several theaters in Tacoma that offer a variety of performances.
Scenic Beauty
The city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, featuring rolling hills, lush forests, and Puget Sound, making it a breathtaking destination for visitors.
Cultural Attractions
Tacoma is home to a variety of cultural attractions that are pretty cool to check out.
The Museum of Glass is a world-renowned museum that showcases the work of Dale Chihuly and other contemporary glass artists. The museum has a variety of exhibits, including a glassblowing studio and a gallery of contemporary glass art.
The Tacoma Art Museum has a collection of over 20,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and photography. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events.
The LeMay Car Museum is pretty fun for people interested in classic cars. There are even some hands-on opportunities for kids.
The Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is home to over 3,000 animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and sea lions. The zoo also has a variety of educational programs and events.
Local Cuisine
Tacoma is home to a variety of cool restaurants that are perfect for a special dinner.
Asado is a steakhouse that serves high-end classics, including tableside caesars and Angus beef. The Lobster Shop is a casual seafood restaurant serving lobster rolls and other seafood dishes. Matador Tacoma is a Latin American restaurant serving tapas and other small plates.
Historic Charm
Known for its tree-lined streets, Tacoma has an eclectic and historic downtown area. offering visitors a chance to experience the city’s unique and friendly atmosphere.
Tacoma Distance from Seattle
Tacoma is just a 45-minute drive from Seattle, making it an easily accessible destination for a day trip.
North Bend
North Bend is a charming and picturesque destination, located just a short drive from Seattle, making it a popular day trip destination.
Here are a few reasons why North Bend is a good day trip from Seattle:
Scenic Beauty
North Bend is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, featuring rolling hills, lush forests, and the Pacific Ocean, making it a breathtaking destination for visitors.
Outdoor Recreation
The town and surrounding area offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, and beachcombing, making it a great destination for visitors who enjoy the great outdoors.
Visit Twede’s Cafe
Twede’s Cafe is a popular restaurant that was featured in the TV show “Twin Peaks.” The cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and it has a retro-diner vibe.
Historic Charm
North Bend is a historic town, known for its well-preserved Victorian homes, tree-lined streets, and charming downtown area. It offers visitors a chance to experience the town’s unique and friendly atmosphere.
North Bend Distance from Seattle
North Bend is just a 1-hour drive from Seattle, making it an easily accessible destination for a day trip.
Skagit Valley
Skagit Valley is a fertile and picturesque valley located just a short drive from Seattle, making it a popular day trip destination.
Here are a few reasons why Skagit Valley is one of the best road trips from Seattle:
Scenic Beauty
Skagit Valley is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, featuring rolling hills, lush forests, and the Skagit River, making it a breathtaking destination for visitors.
Local Cuisine
Snow Goose Produce is a cute farm stand that sells fresh produce and flowers. They also have a cafe that serves sandwiches, salads, and pastries.
The town of Bow-Edison has some cute restaurants like Tweet’s Cafe, Terramar, and the Old Edison.
World-Renowned Tulip Fields
Skagit Valley is famous for its world-renowned tulip fields, which bloom in the spring, offering visitors a chance to see an incredible display of colorful tulips.
Check out my full guide to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival to help you plan your day.
Outdoor Recreation
The valley and surrounding area offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing, making it a great destination for visitors who enjoy the great outdoors.
Farm Tours and U-Pick Experiences
Explore the valley’s fertile farmland and sample local produce, including strawberries, blueberries, and cherries, with opportunities for farm tours and U-pick experiences.
Skagit Valley Distance from Seattle
Skagit Valley is just a 1.5-hour drive from Seattle, making it an easily accessible destination for a day trip.
Bellingham
Bellingham is a vibrant and diverse city located just a short drive from Seattle, making it a popular day trip destination.
Here are a few reasons why Bellingham is worth the drive from Seattle:
Scenic Beauty
Bellingham is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, featuring rolling hills, lush forests, and Puget Sound, making it a breathtaking destination for visitors.
Cultural Attractions
Bellingham is home to a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and performance venues, making it a great destination for visitors interested in the arts.
There are also cool festivals like the Bellingham Art Walk and the Bellingham Festival of Music.
Local Cuisine
Boundary Bay Brewery and Bistro is a must-visit for any beer lover. They have a large selection of Boundary Bay beers on tap, as well as a menu of American cuisines like burgers, pizzas, and salads.
The Loft Restaurant serves American cuisine with a focus on the view. The restaurant is located on the 11th floor of the Sycamore Building and offers stunning views of Bellingham Bay and the Fairhaven District.
The Black Cat is located in the basement of the Sycamore Building and has a speakeasy-style atmosphere.
Outdoor Recreation
The city and surrounding area offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing, making it a great destination for visitors who enjoy the great outdoors.
Bellingham Distance from Seattle
Bellingham is just a 1.5-hour drive from Seattle, making it an easily accessible destination for a day trip.
Snohomish
Snohomish is a charming and historic city offering a wide range of activities for visitors. I think it’s one of the most underrated Washington State day trips.
Here are some of the top things to do in Snohomish:
Hiking
Explore the surrounding landscapes on foot, with trails ranging from easy walks to strenuous backcountry adventures, including the Pilchuck Tree Farm and the Lord Hill Regional Park.
Art and Culture
Enjoy the city’s vibrant art and cultural scene, with opportunities for visiting galleries, theaters, and festivals, including the Snohomish Art Walk and the Snohomish Historical Museum.
Pumpkin Patches
If you’re looking for a Seattle day trip in the fall, Snohomish has a TON of really amazing pumpkin patches that are worth the drive.
Our favorite is Stocker Farms and it’s easy to spend a full day there if you are visiting with kids.
Cafes and Restaurants
The Reppserves American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The menu changes frequently, but you can always expect to find dishes like grilled salmon, steak frites, and roasted chicken.
The Black Dog Arts Cafe serves coffee drinks, pastries, sandwiches, and salads. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite to eat before heading to the Snohomish Riverfront Trail.
Antiquing
Snohomish has a vibrant antiquing scene, especially in Historic Snohomish. You can easily park and spend a few hours going on a treasure hunt to find unique items.
Snohomish Distance from Seattle
The drive from Seattle to Snohomish typically takes around 30 minutes to about an hour, which makes it a totally doable day trip near Seattle.
Mukilteo
Mukilteo is a charming and historic town located just a short drive from Seattle, making it a popular day trip destination.
Here are a few reasons why people should visit Mukilteo on a Seattle day trip:
Stunning views of Puget Sound
Mukilteo is known for its stunning views of Puget Sound, offering visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Cafes and Restaurants
There are several restaurants within walking distance of the Mukilteo Ferry.
Ivar’s Mukilteo Landing is a waterfront restaurant that serves American seafood cuisine. It is known for its fresh fish and beautiful views of Puget Sound.
Arnie’s Restaurant & Bar has a large outdoor patio with views of the Mukilteo ferry dock.
Diamond Knot Brewery & Alehouse features American cuisine and craft beer. It has a large outdoor patio with views of the Mukilteo ferry dock.
Visit the Boeing Future of Flight Aviation Center
The Boeing Future of Flight Aviation Center is a museum that tells the story of aviation. The center has a variety of exhibits, and it also offers tours and educational programs.
Visit Mukilteo Lighthouse Park
The Mukilteo Lighthouse Park is a beautiful park with stunning views of Puget Sound. The park has a lighthouse, a playground, and a beach.
Outdoor Recreation
The town and surrounding area offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and beachcombing, making it a great destination for visitors who enjoy the great outdoors.
Mukilteo Distance from Seattle
Mukilteo is just a 30-minute drive from downtown Seattle, making it an easily accessible destination for a day trip.
Fun Day Trips from Seattle Washington FAQs
Seattle is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and charming cities, making it an ideal starting point for a variety of road trips. One of the most popular Seattle road trips is the Pacific Coast Highway. This is a scenic drive along the coast of Washington and Oregon, featuring stunning ocean views, charming small towns, and historic lighthouses.
I know a lot of other bloggers will include the San Juan Islands as a day trip, but I personally think it’s just too far for a day trip. Sure, you could go see Friday Harbor, but you’ll be kicking yourself that you aren’t spending the night. It’s totally worth doing a weekend getaway there.
Seattle is surrounded by a number of beautiful destinations that are perfect for a winter day trip. Leavenworth is a charming Bavarian-style town that becomes a winter wonderland, with holiday lights, festivals, and outdoor activities, such as skiing and snowshoeing. Stevens Pass is a popular Seattle-area ski spot that offers a range of winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
While it’s hard to beat Seattle in the summer, you can really have fun on a Seattle day trip any time of the year. The Spring is perfect for seeing wildflowers or tulips, fall is perfect for pumpkin farms and seeing foliage, and winter is great for holiday festivities or snow activities.
I always suggest that people bring lots of layers. Pacific Northwest weather can change quickly and it never hurts to have a rainjacket. You’ll also want to check road conditions as there tends to be a lot of road construction (especially in the summer) as well as traffic on nice days.
Day Trips from Seattle Wrap-Up
The abundance of incredible day trips from Seattle offers something for every type of traveler.
Whether you’re exploring the enchanting Olympic National Park or marveling at the majestic beauty of Mount Rainier National Park, these natural wonders are within reach and will leave you with unforgettable memories.
For those who prefer a more leisurely excursion, a scenic ferry ride to the charming Bainbridge Island offers a chance to experience the vibrant local culture.
No matter the distance from Seattle, each destination boasts an array of attractions, including picturesque hiking trails that let you reconnect with nature.
So, lace up your boots, grab your camera, and embark on the perfect Seattle day trip today!