The laid-back city of Seattle beckons art lovers, outdoor adventurers and coffee aficionados alike with its diverse neighborhoods and abundant natural beauty. Another highlight of this Washington state destination, however, is its proximity to a wide array of weekend getaway options. Just a few hours by car or boat from Seattle, you can traverse national parks, discover quaint towns, explore nearby islands or even cross the border into Canada. Whether you seek a romantic escape, a quick solo vacation or a family jaunt, this list of top weekend getaways in the Pacific Northwest can guide your planning.
The Best Weekend Getaways From Seattle
About one hour or less:
— Salish Lodge & Spa, Washington
About two hours or less:
— Whidbey Island, Washington
— Suncadia Resort, Washington
— Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
About three hours or less:
— Leavenworth, Washington
— Olympic Peninsula, Washington
— Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
— Portland, Oregon
About four hours or less:
— San Juan Islands, Washington
— Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
About six hours or less:
— Stehekin, Washington
About one hour or less:
Salish Lodge & Spa: Snoqualmie, Washington
You don’t have to travel more than 30 miles out of the city to find a relaxing retreat away from the hustle and bustle. The cozy guest rooms and suites at Salish Lodge & Spa
take inspiration from its Pacific Northwest location, with locally crafted furniture and historical photographs among other thoughtful design elements. All accommodations feature a gas fireplace, a pillow menu, robes and complimentary bath products; you’ll also find options for add-on amenities like a charcuterie plate or wine to further elevate your stay at this resort.
The two dining venues spotlight farm-to-table fare with ingredients sourced locally, on top of homegrown herbs and honey from Salish Lodge’s own apiary. The award-winning on-site spa also incorporates ingredients from the region in its treatments. If you can’t bear to part with your pup for a weekend, this pet-friendly property pampers its canine guests with a welcome biscuit, a souvenir blanket and dog tag, on-site green space, and qualified pet sitters. You and your furry friend can explore the Snoqualmie Valley together — and, luckily, leashed dogs are welcome at Snoqualmie Falls, a can’t-miss attraction in the area that offers a short hike. The lodge’s proximity to the waterfall is one of the things guests rave about, along with the top-tier food, service and ambiance at Salish Lodge.
Address: 6501 Railroad Ave., Snoqualmie, WA 98065
About two hours or less:
Whidbey Island, Washington
Whidbey Island sits just off the coast of Seattle amid Puget Sound, next to Camano Island. City dwellers can escape to its serene setting for daytrips or weekend getaways with a quick, scenic journey by car or boat. Awe-inspiring landscapes, beaches, historic sites and various cultural attractions await you on this island as you explore its many seaside villages and state parks. Travelers can find outdoor adventure everywhere from Deception Pass State Park on the island’s north end to Possession Point at its southernmost tip. Whidbey Island’s largest city is Oak Harbor, but the smaller towns like Langley and Coupeville boast charming local shops and eateries you won’t want to miss. The seasonal offerings of the island’s small family farms are always worth checking out, whether you want to pick your own lavender, befriend a sheep or purchase some award-winning cheese at a farmers market.
Amid all the whale watching, water sports and winery visits you can experience on Whidbey Island, you’ll need to decide where to bed down. Lodging options all over the island span bed-and-breakfasts and hotels to campsites and cottages. The Inn at Langley in particular impresses guests with exceptional service and spectacular water views through floor-to-ceiling windows. To get to the island from Seattle, drive around 30 miles north to Mukilteo and catch the ferry to Clinton, which takes about 20 minutes and runs frequently throughout the day. A trip to Whidbey solely by car requires a 125-mile drive up to Fidalgo Island, across the Deception Pass Bridge and down to Whidbey Island.
Suncadia Resort: Cle Elum, Washington
An approximately 85-mile drive southeast of Seattle will get you to the central Washington mountain town of Cle Elum, home to Suncadia Resort. Activities all year long ensure your weekend getaway here in the Cascade Mountains is full of options. In addition to a 36-hole golf course and more than 40 miles of trails for hiking and biking, you’ll find opportunities for archery, ax throwing, ice skating, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and more at Suncadia. Winter guests may also want to venture out to the Summit at Snoqualmie Resort, one of the top U.S. ski resorts, for a family-friendly daytrip.
The property’s serene alpine setting complements the mineral baths, saunas, fireside relaxation areas and private women’s garden at the full-service Glade Spring Spa. In addition, the variety of lodging options at this mountain resort means any size of family or friend group can be accommodated. The Inn and Lodge at Suncadia both offer rooms and suites with scenic views, and trailhead condominiums and luxury vacation rentals round out the selection at this resort. Travelers say the beauty and seclusion at Suncadia allow you to recharge, though some guests felt the rooms could use some updates.
Address: 3600 Suncadia Trail, Cle Elum, WA 98922
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
This national park is best known for its namesake Mount Rainier, an active volcano and glaciated peak that towers more than 14,400 feet above sea level. The diverse ecosystems, wildlife and trails across Mount Rainier National Park warrant at least a weekend trip. The park has five entry points that allow access to different areas. The popular Nisqually entrance to the southwest is a gateway to Paradise — one of the most stunning parts of the park — which is blanketed in subalpine wildflowers. From the northwest Carbon River entrance, travelers can explore an inland temperate rainforest and beautiful Mowich Lake; Carbon River Road is also one of the few places you’re allowed to mountain bike within the national park.
From Seattle, the closest entrance is Carbon River, only about 60 miles away, while Nisqually sits around 90 miles from the city. Traffic congestion at Nisqually, the only entrance that’s open year-round to vehicles, can cause long wait times on summer weekends as well as parking difficulties, so your best bet for a smooth weekend jaunt to Paradise is choosing a less crowded time of year — such as at the peak time for fall foliage. If your heart is set on summertime exploration, Carbon River doesn’t permit vehicles past the entrance, but pedestrians and cyclists can access this park road all year. Consult the National Park Service website for more information on park entrances and directions.
[See more of Mount Rainier National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]
About three hours or less:
Leavenworth, Washington
Experience the charm of Bavaria about 115 miles from Seattle in Leavenworth. Set against a picturesque backdrop of the Cascades, this town draws flocks of visitors seeking to be transported to Germany with its Bavarian-style architecture, cuisine and specialty shops. But its allure extends beyond its resemblance to a European Alpine village, with year-round outdoor pursuits, an array of wineries and cider tasting rooms, and Leavenworth’s highly popular Christmas light display. The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest surrounds the town, so you’ll never be too far from nature here. Whatever the season of your visit, drop by the landmark Gingerbread Factory for a sweet treat or sample Bavarian sausages at München Haus Bavarian Grill & Beer Garden.
After a day spent exploring nearby fruit orchards, unwinding at a spa or learning about the area’s Indigenous history at the local museum, consider a stay at Icicle Village Resort. Only a short walk from downtown, this resort welcomes guests with complimentary breakfast, a heated pool and mountain views. Enzian Inn, another top lodging option in Leavenworth, cultivates its own old-world atmosphere with antique Austrian furnishings and a breakfast buffet piled high with European specialties — ideal for a romantic getaway.
Olympic Peninsula, Washington
Across Puget Sound from the city, the Olympic Peninsula is a prime Washington state getaway destination. From the Olympic Mountains to the Pacific Ocean coastline, there’s a lot to explore across the 3,600 square miles of this diverse peninsula, so you’ll have to decide what you most want to do and see during your weekend trip. Olympic National Park in particular entices visitors year-round with its three distinct ecosystems, bountiful wildlife and recreation opportunities. Hiking, biking, camping, birding, fishing and paddling are all excellent ways to experience the natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
At the northeast tip of the Olympic Peninsula — about 55 miles from Seattle — Port Townsend is known as one of the country’s coolest small towns. Its maritime legacy, Indigenous roots and Victorian architecture make this culturally rich seaport a must-visit destination that pairs well with a stay at Ravenscroft Inn. Further west, Port Angeles is ideally situated to grant travelers access to certain parts of Olympic National Park, such as Hurricane Ridge and glacially carved Lake Crescent. You can also enjoy fresh-caught seafood and hip boutiques downtown and at the waterfront before bedding down at the rustic-chic Olympic Lodge. Along the peninsula’s western coastline (about 175 miles from Seattle by car), the stunning Kalaloch beaches and wildlife refuges in this part of Olympic National Park are worth the drive. A cabin or room at Kalaloch Lodge in the Forks area — or one of the park’s campsites — makes a convenient home base to explore the shoreline, Hoh Rain Forest and more.
The shortest — though not always the fastest — route to the Olympic Peninsula means sailing with Washington State Ferries on one of a few different route options, such as from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island. Depending on the ferry schedule, driving the whole way may cut down on travel time in some cases.
[See more of Olympic National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Perhaps you seek a weekend trip abroad — and, luckily, you can reach this top Canada destination in less than 150 miles (just make sure to bring your passport). The natural beauty of Canada’s British Columbia province combines with the attractions of this modern city to create an ideal getaway no matter how you hope to spend it. Vancouver’s cultural offerings run the gamut from Indigenous heritage sites to high-fashion boutiques; you may even want to explore some of the city’s filming locations for popular movies and TV shows. The Granville Island district, with an array of hip eateries and galleries, is home to one of North America’s best open-air markets. Vancouver — especially the colorful Davie Village neighborhood — is also a top destination for LGBTQ travelers.
You’ll get the fullest Vancouver experience by venturing outdoors. The beaches and waterfront parks like Stanley Park set an idyllic scene for respite and renewal, and travelers can take a ride on a lift or gondola for stunning mountain views. If you want to get a bit more active, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had: Cycle along the seawall, challenge yourself to a rugged hike up Grouse Mountain, or get your adrenaline pumping on a whitewater rafting excursion. When it’s time to turn in for the day, choose from Vancouver’s B&Bs and top hotels, which range from luxury boutiques to more budget-friendly options, or stow your sleeping bag in the car to camp under the stars.
[See more of Vancouver: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]
Portland, Oregon
For some travelers, there may be no better way to spend a rainy day in the Pacific Northwest than with a novel in hand. Book-loving Seattleites will be pleased to know, then, that the world’s largest independent bookstore ? Powell’s City of Books ? sits around 175 miles south, in Portland. But literary riches aren’t the only draw to this pedestrian-friendly Oregon city: Its charming local businesses also spotlight crafts, coffee, cocktails and more. The food carts lining the streets serve up some of the country’s most diverse and affordable street fare. Enjoy Portland’s one-of-a-kind neighborhoods, green spaces and bike lanes alongside the museums and cultural attractions. When the weather is just right, hiking and biking trails, water sports in the rivers, and skiing on Mount Hood complete the area’s offerings.
The low-key urban landscape of Portland plays host to the standard array of high-rise hotels and nearby campgrounds — but those seeking something a bit more eclectic won’t be disappointed. From a repurposed elementary school to a rock ‘n’ roll-themed hotel to a serene garden cabin, visitors can find cozy lodging that complements their travel style. You can even inject a bit of intrigue into your trip with a stay at the White Eagle Saloon & Hotel, a supposedly haunted hotel. If you don’t want to make the drive to Portland for your weekend escape, consider a scenic Amtrak train ride.
[See more of Portland: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]
About four hours or less:
San Juan Islands
Washington’s San Juan Islands archipelago in the Salish Sea comprises more than 170 islands. Each of its main three islands — San Juan, Lopez and Orcas — makes for an excellent destination for a weekend road trip. The most popular way to get to these islands is aboard Washington State Ferries, which depart regularly from Anacortes, about an 85-mile drive north from Seattle. The ferry journey typically takes around an hour, but travel time will vary based on which island you pick and what stops the boat makes. You’re advised to make a ferry reservation online ahead of time as spots are limited.
These islands are geographically unique and known for the resident pods of killer whales (or orcas). Bikes are a great way to explore, and luckily there’s a bike rental outlet on each of the main three. Lopez Island in particular makes for smooth cycling, as the flat landscapes and serene country roads weave a bucolic setting. It’s the smallest of the ferry-served San Juan Islands, so don’t expect an abundance of restaurants and activities, but a weekend spent in a campsite or B&B here will give you a taste of true tranquility.
San Juan Island, the most populous, houses Friday Harbor — the only real town on the archipelago — and thus plenty of shops, eateries, galleries, museums and more. This island has the most beach access, and its Lime Kiln Point State Park is known as Whale Watch Park for a reason, so keep your eyes peeled for killer whales from the shore. Orcas Island, the largest of the archipelago, is also the hilliest, so you might want to bring your car on the ferry to navigate the rugged terrain. Kayaking is an excellent way to explore the rich coastline, among a variety of other outdoor activities, and you won’t want to miss Moran State Park or the charming village of Eastsound. Bed down at a glamping site or the historic Rosario Resort & Spa on Orcas Island, complete with its own on-site museum.
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
International travel from Seattle is not too taxing, especially when the ferry ride to British Columbia’s capital city boasts such stunning vistas. The Victoria Clipper ferry offers a convenient service once a day from downtown Seattle’s Pier 69 to Victoria, situated at the southern tip of Vancouver Island. The journey typically takes just under three hours, and you’re advised to arrive an hour before departure. If you’re lucky, perhaps you’ll even spot some of the region’s diverse marine life along the way. Upon arriving in Victoria, weekenders may want to get right back on the water for kayaking, sailing, fishing, whale watching and more.
As one of the region’s oldest cities, Victoria is brimming with history and culture. Indigenous heritage stretches back centuries, and British and Asian influences have also shaped the area since the 19th century. From Craigdarroch Castle to Canada’s oldest Chinatown to Songhees — where guided canoe and walking tours focus on Indigenous storytelling and sightseeing — travelers can find meaningful experiences in this city. Get a true taste of Victoria through its rich dining scene, which spotlights local ingredients and alcohol. For lodging, you can take your pick of historic hotels such as the Fairmont Empress and unique B&Bs like Marketa’s Bed and Breakfast, which recent guests recommend for a homey feel and attentive service.
[See more of Victoria: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]
About six hours or less:
Stehekin, Washington
Nestled deep in the North Cascade range, the remote destination of Stehekin is undeniably worth the bit of effort required to get there. The community’s name means “the way through” in the Indigenous Salishan language, and Stehekin aptly serves as an access point to the rugged wilderness of the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area and North Cascades National Park — one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems. There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the area’s natural splendor, from hiking, camping and climbing in the park to water sports and fishing on Lake Chelan.
Because Stehekin is primarily accessible by boat — no roads lead into this area — you’ll need to catch a ferry from Field’s Point Landing in Chelan, about a 175-mile drive from Seattle. The year-round Stehekin Ferry shuttles passengers once a day on a 90-minute journey up the lake to Stehekin; since it typically departs at 1 p.m., this service is ideal for travelers planning to make the drive from Seattle in the morning. As you cruise to your destination on this 32-passenger catamaran, you can enjoy scenic views and complimentary nonalcoholic drinks. The other ferry operator is Lake Chelan Boat Co. To guarantee a spot, be sure to reserve your ferry trip in advance, especially if you plan to bring a bike or your pet with you.
Once you arrive in Stehekin, you’ll find North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin right across from the boat dock. Accommodations here include lakeshore lodge rooms, private cabins and even a lake house for larger groups. Stehekin Valley Ranch, another lodging option, sits around 10 miles up the road and offers guests free transportation from the boat dock. Both North Cascades Lodge and Stehekin Valley Ranch provide bus services to destinations in the area, such as the breathtaking Rainbow Falls, but another great way to get around is by bringing or renting a bike.
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The 11 Best Weekend Getaways From Seattle originally appeared on usnews.com
