We're lucky to live in a state with so many charming towns that lead people to visit all over the place to see. But many of our top tourist towns like Leavenworth and Port Townsend aren't exactly hidden gems -- in fact, depending on the weekend, they can be almost as crowded as the city you're trying to escape. And when the idea is to enjoy a quiet weekend getaway, visiting such popular places may be counterintuitive.
But slowing down the pace for a few days doesn't have to mean going off the grid entirely. You can still enjoy amenities like friendly cafes, fine dining, and entertainment in some of our lesser known small towns. The cities on this list might not be places you'd expect to on a vacation, but if you do, prepare to be pleasantly surprised by what you see.
1. Lynden
Unless you live in Whatcom County, you may have yet to see our little Dutch town. Located just 5 miles from the Canadian border, it's peaceful, picturesque, and nice and quiet.
Of course, stopping by the iconic Lynden Dutch Bakery is a must.
Dutch Mothers Family Restaurant and Good To Go Meat Pies also serve authentic eats. If you go on the third weekend in July, you can catch the annual Raspberry Festival -- but if the goal is to avoid the crowds, either come another time or spend the entire weekend in your beautiful room at the quiet Homestead Resort.
2. Roslyn
It's about time we give this little mountain town more credit. Roslyn hasn't really been a household name in Washington since the 90s, when Northern Exposure was filmed here... but that doesn't mean its glory days are over. Not only is this little town perfectly pleasant, but there's a surprising amount of fun to be had here.
First, there's a new hotel in town, which means you won't have to stay in Cle Elum or look for a private vacation rental. Hotel Roslyn is officially open for business.
The hotel sits right in the heart of town, and it's only a few blocks from the oldest bar in the area, The Brick. If you imbibe, treat yourself to a tasting at Heritage Distilling Company. If you're there on a Sunday, pick up some fresh produce at the popular Roslyn Sunday Market.
3. Kent
Kent is the 6th largest city in Washington, but you'd never know it. It retains a small farming town atmosphere you won't find in most of King County anymore. And thanks to the expansion of Kent Station, the shopping and entertainment mecca, you'll always have something fun to do.
When you visit Kent, bring your appetite.
There's so much delicious diversity here that you can take yourself on five different self-guided food tours, all of which include both ethnic and American eats. Stop by the Airways Taproom & Brewery for a pint of local brew, or grab a bite from their family-friendly bistro. Catch up on beauty sleep at the Best Western Plus Plaza by the Green, which faces a golf course (meaning you'll never hear traffic). And whatever you do, don't leave without trying brunch at Wild Wheat Bakery Cafe & Restaurant. Not only do they make their own bread and pastries daily, but the hearty breakfasts will keep you full until dinner.
4. Walla Walla
Due to its surge in popularity in recent years, Walla Walla can no longer be considered a hidden gem. However, with all the wide open spaces and secluded wineries, it's still possible to have a quiet getaway there, keeping away from the crowds.
But as amazing as Walla Walla is to explore, it's in the neighboring town of Touchet that you'll find the quiet relaxation you seek.
The Cameo Heights Mansion is just a 25 minute drive from the shopping, wining and dining of Walla Walla, and it's well worth making the trip. Every gorgeous suite has a different Euopean theme, and the onsite outdoor hot tub is heaven on Earth on a starry night. This is one weekend getaway where you can have a little bit of everything.
5. Port Angeles
For the nature lover who also enjoys the perks of city living, Port Angeles make a perfect vacation spot. It's considered the gateway to Olympic National Park, and it's surrounded by water, forest, and hiking and biking trails. Should you decide to take a picnic on your hike, Country Aire Deli will have everything you need.
Between the esteemed Kokopelli Grill, Cafe Garden, and H2O Waterfront Bistro (just to name a few), deciding where to eat in Port Angeles is no easy task.
At the end of the day, rest your head at Maitland Manor, a modern bed & breakfast in a charming old Victorian home.
Do you have a favorite weekend getaway town? If you're looking for somewhere new to explore, try Kingston next.
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