By leah jones
Seattle is perfect for a trip in itself. The Western gem boasts diverse feats of nature like bodies of water, mountains and forests. However, the wide variety of getaways just outside of the city shouldn't be slept on.
Here are some incredible options for weekend trips from Seattle. They range from charming beach towns for relaxing to naturally stunning parks for wilderness adventures.
Leavenworth is a Bavarian-style village known for its architecture, outdoor activities and German cuisine. Though you may feel like you’re in Europe, Leavenworth is a little over two hours from Seattle.
The San Juan Islands offer spectacular views from the Pacific Northwest’s beaches from its coastlines and lush forests to its seaside towns. Get there in 3-4 hours from Seattle (including a ferry ride).
Nature enthusiasts will love Mount Rainier, one of the country's first national parks. Just two hours from Seattle, you can witness its 14,410-foot active stratovolcano as well as glaciers, wildflowers, waterfalls and hiking trails.
This beautiful island in Washington State is one of the largest in the US. Visit Whidbey Island in 1.5 hours (including a ferry ride) for farm-to-table dining, wine-tasting and small town strolls.
Get to this nature hub in 3-4 hours from Seattle. At Olympic National Park, you can explore rainforests, coastlines, beaches and mountains. You can also relax at Sol Duc Hot Springs.
Travel from Seattle to Portland in three hours by car. Divide your weekend between escapes into nature and exploring what Oregon’s biggest city has to offer – from great food to shopping opportunities.
Bellingham is a northwestern coastal city about 1.5 hours going north from Seattle. Here you can explore nature with access to San Juan Islands and North Cascades National Park or its laid-back town.
If you have your passport, you can travel to Victoria in 3-4 hours (including a ferry ride) from Seattle. Embrace British vibes with tea at The Empress or visiting Butchart Gardens and the Royal BC Museum.
In three hours by car, you can visit North Cascades National Park: known as the “American Alps.” Here you can go hiking, camping or exploring glaciers and lakes with minimal crowds.
Cannon Beach (3.5 hours from Seattle) is the destination for beach lovers. Take scenic strolls along the sandy shores and visit the famous Haystack Rock, featuring vibrant tide pools and home to puffins.