If you’re looking to escape the city and explore day trips from Seattle, you’re in luck! The Emerald City is surrounded by a ton of outdoor activities, and charming small towns, all within a reasonable driving distance.
After spending a day exploring Seattle, consider branching out to it’s surrounding areas. There’s so many places to choose from that it’s hard to decide where to go first.
Let this guide help you narrow down all the options based on your interests.
Quick Overview
- Discover 15 destinations within a few hours’ drive from downtown Seattle.
- Explore the great outdoors, cute small towns, and unique attractions.
- Find the perfect day trip for every interest, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences.
- Get insider tips on the best things to do, where to eat, and hike recommendations.
- Plan your trip around festivals and events happening in the area.
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Bucket List: Seattle Day Trips
- Mount Rainier National Park
- Leavenworth
- Whidbey Island
- Port Townsend
- Olympic National Park
- Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
- Woodinville Wine Country
- Bainbridge Island
- Snoqualmie Falls
- Deception Pass State Park
- North Cascades National Park
- La Conner
- Tacoma
- Victoria, British Columbia
- Portland, Oregon
Driving Distance: Day Trips from Seattle
| Location | Miles from Seattle | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Rainier National Park | 87 miles | 2 hours |
| Leavenworth | 135 miles | 2.5 hours |
| Whidbey Island | 35 miles | 1 hour |
| Port Townsend | 55 miles | 1.5 hours |
| Olympic National Park | 100 miles | 3 hours |
| Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument | 165 miles | 3.5 hours |
| Woodinville Wine Country | 25 miles | 30 minutes |
| Bainbridge Island | 10 miles | 35 minutes |
| Snoqualmie Falls | 30 miles | 45 minutes |
| Deception Pass State Park | 90 miles | 2 hours |
| North Cascades National Park | 120 miles | 3 hours |
| La Conner | 80 miles | 1.5 hours |
| Tacoma | 35 miles | 1 hour |
| Victoria, British Columbia | 90 miles | 3 hours |
| Portland, Oregon | 175 miles | 3 hours |
1. Mount Rainier National Park
Have you ever seen a massive, snowcapped volcano up close? If not, it’s time to head to Mount Rainier National Park!
It’s one of three National Parks located in Washington state and only a few hours drive from downtown Seattle.
This iconic peak is so beautiful and the park has several outdoor activity options like hiking trails and snow shoeing.
Top Things to Do
- Get your National Park Passport Stamp at the Visitor Center
- Hike the scenic Skyline Trail
- Explore the Paradise meadows
- Take photos at Narada Falls
Favorite Place to Eat
Summit House Restaurant for delicious American style food and million dollar mountain views.
Favorite Hike
- Trail of the Shadows (0.7 miles, easy) – A flat, paved loop trail that winds through an old-growth forest, offering glimpses of Mount Rainier.
- Skyline Trail (5.5 miles, strenuous) – This challenging yet rewarding hike offers jaw-dropping views of Mount Rainier and wildflower-filled meadows.
Travel Tip! Be sure to check the weather before driving to Mount Rainier and make sure the roads are open. The weather drastically changes as you drive further and further up the mountain. Pack accordingly.
2. Leavenworth
Get ready to feel like you’ve stepped into a Bavarian fairytale! Leavenworth is a charming little town in the Cascade Mountains, known for its German-inspired architecture and festivals.
Top Things to Do
- Stroll through the Bavarian village
- Visit the Nutcracker Museum
- Go tubing or skiing at the Leavenworth Ski Hill
Favorite Place to Eat
Munchen Haus for authentic German cuisine, outdoor seating and a lively biergarten atmosphere.
Favorite Hike
- Waterfront Park Trail (1.5 miles, easy) – A flat, paved trail that follows the Wenatchee River, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
- Icicle Ridge Trail (4.5 miles, moderate) – This scenic hike with views of the Icicle Creek Canyon and the surrounding peaks.
Travel Tip! Plan to visit in October to experience the Leavenworth Oktoberfest- a celebration of Bavarian culture with live music, beer, and traditional food.
3. Whidbey Island
Escape to the tranquil Whidbey Island, where you’ll find charming seaside towns, pristine beaches, and a laid-back vibe that’ll make you feel like you’ve truly gotten away from it all.
Top Things to Do
- Explore the charming town of Langley and Coupeville
- Visit the Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve
- Indulge in fresh seafood
Favorite Place to Eat
Saltwater Fish House in Langley for delicious seafood with a view.
Favorite Hike
- Ebey’s Landing Trail (2 miles, easy) – A portion of the longer trail offering stunning views of the Puget Sound and historical sites.
4. Port Townsend
Step back in time in the Victorian-era seaport of Port Townsend. With its well-preserved historic buildings, vibrant arts scene, and natural surroundings, this town is a true gem.
Top Things to Do
- Explore the Victorian-era downtown
- Visit the Wooden Boat Festival (September)
- Take a historic walking tour
Favorite Place to Eat
Fins Coastal Cuisine for fresh, locally-sourced seafood dishes and waterfront views.
Favorite Hike
- Fort Worden State Park Trails (1-2 miles, easy) – Short coastal trails perfect for a quick stroll and beachcombing.
5. Olympic National Park
The ecosystem of Olympic National Park is so diverse and beautiful. You’ll fall in love with the lush rainforests, mountain peaks, waterfalls and coastlines. This park is a nature lover’s paradise.
Top Things to Do
- Stop by the Visitor Center first to pick up a tide pool map and learn about trail closures.
- Hike through the Hoh Rainforest
- Explore the tide pools at Rialto and Ruby Beach
- Drive up to Hurricane Ridge
Favorite Place to Eat
Alder Wood Bistro in Sequim for delectable Pacific Northwest cuisine and a cozy ambiance.
Favorite Hike
- Marymere Falls Trail (1.5 miles, easy) – Like walking into a fairytale forest, you’ll find lush, moss covered trees, bridges, streams and waterfalls- the perfect spot to get a first glimpse of ONP.
6. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
Witness the aftermath of one of the most significant volcanic eruptions in U.S. history at Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument.
Top Things to Do
- Check out the Johnston Ridge Observatory
- Hike the Boundary Trail
- Learn about the 1980 eruption at the visitor centers
Favorite Place to Eat
Kalama Brewing Company in Kalama for delicious pub fare and locally crafted brews.
Favorite Hike
- Coldwater Lake Trail (1.5 miles, easy) – A portion of the longer trail, offering great views of Mount St. Helens and the surrounding area.
- Boundary Trail (8.5 miles, strenuous) – This challenging hike takes you through the blast zone and offers stunning views of the crater and the surrounding landscapes.
7. Woodinville Wine Country
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply enjoy a good glass of vino, Woodinville Wine Country is a must-visit destination. This charming area is home to over 100 wineries, tasting rooms, and a sweet small-town atmosphere.
Top Things to Do
- Go on a wine-tasting tour
- Enjoy the quaint downtown area
- Attend one of the many wine festivals and events.
Favorite Place to Eat
The Herbfarm for a unique, multi-course farm-to-table dining experience.
Favorite Hike
- Sammamish River Trail (2 miles, easy) – A flat, paved section of the longer trail, perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.
8. Bainbridge Island
For an alternate view of the Seattle skyline, head out of the city limits by taking one of the many Washington state ferries to Bainbridge Island.
Top Things to Do
- Walk around the downtown area
- Visit the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art
- Family day trips are perfect for spending time at the island’s parks or beaches.
Favorite Place to Eat
Bruciato for wood-fired pizzas and a cozy, rustic ambiance.
Favorite Hike
- Gazzam Lake Nature Trail (1.5 miles, easy) – A short loop trail that takes you through forests and past a beautiful lake.
- Grand Forest West Loop Trail (4.5 miles, moderate) – This scenic hike takes you through lush forests and offers stunning views of the Puget Sound.
9. Snoqualmie Falls
Prepare to be wowed by the mighty Snoqualmie Falls, a breathtaking 268-foot waterfall that’s been featured in various movies and TV shows.
For a winter day trip, head over to Snoqualmie Pass to go cross country skiing, snowboarding and enjoy the resort.
Top Things to Do
- Take in the stunning views of the falls from the observation deck
- Hike the nearby trails
- Stroll around the quaint town of Snoqualmie
Favorite Place to Eat
The Salish Lodge & Spa for upscale dining with spectacular views of the falls. And for dessert, stop by the Snoqualmie Ice Cream shop!
Favorite Hike
- Snoqualmie Falls Viewpoint Trail (0.2 miles, easy) – A short, paved trail that leads to an observation deck with stunning views of the iconic Snoqualmie Falls.
- Twin Falls Trail (3 miles, moderate) – This scenic hike takes you to two beautiful waterfalls and offers great views of the Snoqualmie Falls from various vantage points.
Travel Tip! Visit in April to see the gorgeous cherry blossom trees line the streets of Snoqualmie. It makes for a magical experience!
10. Deception Pass State Park
Get ready to be amazed by the rugged beauty of Deception Pass State Park. This stunning destination is known for its iconic bridges, breathtaking coastal scenery, and abundant opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Top Things to Do
- Walk across the iconic Deception Pass Bridge to take photos of the view
- Explore the beaches and tide pools
- Go for a hike
Favorite Place to Eat
Deception Pass Cafe for delicious American fare and stunning views of the Puget Sound.
Favorite Hike
- North Beach Trail (1 mile, easy) – A short section of the longer trail, hugging the coastline and offering beautiful views.
- Goose Rock Perimeter Trail (5.5 miles, moderate) – This scenic hike offers stunning views of the Deception Pass Bridge and the surrounding coastline.
11. North Cascades National Park
Escape into the rugged wilderness of the North Cascades National Park, where towering peaks, glaciers, and pristine alpine lakes await. This park is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Top Things to Do
- Hike the many scenic trails
- Explore the Diablo Lake area
- Go whitewater rafting on the Skagit River
Favorite Place to Eat
Cascadian Farm in Sedro-Woolley for delicious, organic farm-to-table cuisine.
Favorite Hike
- Trail of the Cedars Nature Loop (0.3 miles, easy) – A short, accessible trail that takes you through an old-growth cedar forest.
- Maple Pass Loop (7.2 miles, strenuous) – This challenging hike offers breathtaking views of the jagged peaks and stunning alpine lakes.
12. La Conner
Step back in time in the charming waterfront town of La Conner. With its well-preserved historic buildings, vibrant arts scene, and delightful local shops and restaurants, this town is a true hidden gem.
Top Things to Do
- Visit the Museum of Northwest Art
- Attend one of the many art festivals and events
Favorite Place to Eat
Nell Thorn Restaurant & Pub for Pacific Northwest cuisine and a cozy ambiance.
Favorite Hike
- Waterfront Trail (1 mile, easy) – A flat trail that follows the Swinomish Channel, perfect for a quick stroll and taking in the views.
- Tommy Thompson Trail (3.5 miles, easy) – This scenic hike offers stunning views of the Swinomish Channel and opportunities for birdwatching.
13. Tacoma
Often overlooked in favor of its larger neighbor, Seattle, Tacoma is a vibrant city with a rich history, exceptional museums, and a thriving arts and culinary scene.
Top Things to Do
- Visit the Museum of Glass
- Explore the Chihuly Bridge of Glass
- Spend the day at Point Defiance Park
Favorite Place to Eat
Indochine Asian Dining Lounge for delectable Asian fusion cuisine and a chic ambiance.
Favorite Hike
- Chambers Creek Regional Park Trails (various distances, easy to moderate) – Enjoy the scenic trails along the Puget Sound, with opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
- Ruston Way Waterfront Trail (1-2 miles, easy) – A section of the longer trail, offering stunning views of the Puget Sound and nearby mountains.
14. Victoria, British Columbia
Take a ferry ride across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Victoria, the charming capital of British Columbia. This city has a unique blend of British heritage, beautiful gardens, and a great culinary scene.
Top Things to Do
- Explore the Butchart Gardens
- Visit the Royal BC Museum
- Stroll through the charming Inner Harbour
Favorite Place to Eat
Olo Restaurant for exceptional farm-to-table cuisine and a cozy, upscale ambiance.
Favorite Hike
- Beacon Hill Park Trails (1-2 miles, easy) – A network of short, easy trails that wind through the park, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- East Sooke Park Coastal Trail (6.5 miles, moderate) – This scenic hike offers stunning views of the Juan de Fuca Strait and opportunities for beachcombing and wildlife viewing.
Travel Tip! Plan a visit in August to see the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival- a cultural celebration featuring colorful dragon boat races.
15. Portland, Oregon
Just a short drive from Seattle, Washington, Portland offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and quirky charm. From its thriving food and craft beer scene to its vibrant arts and cultural offerings, this city is a must-visit destination.
Top Things to Do
- Explore the International Rose Test Garden
- Visit the iconic Powell’s City of Books
- Walk around the eclectic Alberta Arts District
Favorite Place to Eat
Pok Pok for authentic Thai street food and a lively atmosphere.
Favorite Hike
- Forest Park Trails (various distances, easy to moderate) – Enjoy the extensive network of trails within this urban oasis, offering a peaceful escape from the city.
- Marquam Trail (2 miles, easy) – A portion of the longer trail, providing a peaceful escape within the city’s parks and gardens.
Travel Tip! Celebrate the city’s official flower with parades, concerts, and other exciting events during the Portland Rose Festival in May/June.
Final Thoughts: Day Trips Seattle
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a change of scenery, these day trips from Seattle offer something for everyone.
Pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the Pacific Northwest!
Travel Resources
✈️ Get the best flight deals with CheapOAir and escape to your dream vacation!
🛌 Book accommodations with Booking.com and rest easy when everything is done in advance.
🚗 Rent a car with Discover Cars so you don’t miss out on those unique roadside stops.
🥾 Confirm activities & tours in advance with Viator so you don’t miss out on conquering those epic bucket list adventures!
