Summer Day Trips from Seattle

Seattle has an array of gorgeous public parks that allow you to remove yourself from the hustle and bustle of the city, and if you’re really looking for a change of scenery, you won’t need to go too far. Consider one of these fantastic day trips, all within two hours of downtown.

Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park

Just 20 minutes east of the city, Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park covers 25,000 acres, and has a variety of different trails to choose from, so congestion is minimal. Local hikers rave about its lush scenery, consistent trail-markers and scenic views.

Bellingham, Washington

Just an hour and a half North of Seattle lies Bellingham, Washington—a city known for its outdoors activities, and its excellent craft breweries. If you visit in July, be sure to check out the Bellingham Festival of Music, which is renowned for it premier orchestral and chamber music. Learn more about the Festival of Music here.

Bainbridge Island

Home to a number of small wineries, distilleries, and breweries, Bainbridge Island is a great place to visit if you’re looking to spend an afternoon experiencing some of Washington’s artisanal agricultural products. A few local favorites are Bainbridge Island Brewing, Eleven Winery, and Island Vintners.

Snoqualmie Falls

Snoqualmie Falls is a 270-foot waterfall that lies on the Snoqualmie River. It’s one of the most popular outdoor sights in Washington. A viewing platform not far from the parking lot allows a gorgeous, 180 degree view of the falls.

Olympic National Park

All together, Olympic National Park spans over one million acres, and includes glacier-capped mountains, old growth rainforests, and over 70 miles of stunning Pacific Coastline. Ruby Beach is a popular destination within the park, due to its rugged scenery, and sea-anemone filled tidepools.

Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth, Washington, is a city built to replicate a quaint, Bavarian village. Home to a Nutcracker Museum, and a little shopping district, it’s a great place to pick up a souvenir, eat some schnitzel and drink a blonde beer.