One of the best parts about living in a state as vast as Washington is that there is so much potential for adventure. If you're anything like us, you've likely spent a fair amount of time researching "day trips near me in Washington." That's the inspiration behind these 7 itineraries that will show you a new side of the Evergreen State. You'll find a little bit of everything: beautiful outdoor adventures, little-known restaurants, and unique places of business that you'll love discovering. So pack your car and get ready for some memorable adventures in Washington!
1. For the music lovers near Seattle:
Begin your day at the Georgetown Music Store where you can pick up some great new equipment. Even if you're not up for buying anything at the moment, window shopping and seeing the dozens of instruments offered will surely rock your world!
Once you're done, spend your afternoon viewing some interesting exhibits at the Experience Music Project (EMP) in lower Queen Anne or check out one of the many record stores around the city! Pictured is Easy Street Records in West Seattle.
Top off your evening by having some scrumptious appetizers, a drink (or five) and checking out a live show at one of the dozens of venues around the city such as the Crocodile Bar, Showbox, El Corazon, Triple Door, etc.
2. Adventurous ones in Central Washington:
Begin your adventure at the Umtanum Campground in the Yakima River Canyon, and cross the suspension bridge across the Yakima River. Then go underneath the railroad tracks and you'll run into a sign and a fork in the trail.
If you take the trail to the right you'll find Umtanum Creek, but if you go left you'll head up a steep, narrow trail with gorgeous wildflowers & views of the entire Stuart Mountain Range as well as the Yakima Canyon. You can even spot Mt. Adams and Mt. Rainier if you're at the very top peak. This photogenic trip is one you'll want to remember forever, so don't forget to bring your (charged) camera! While you're in the area, be sure to check out the town of Yakima, one of the coolest towns in Washington.
3. Bookworms by Vancouver:
After you wake, stop by Bleu Door Bakery for some much-needed caffeine and a tasty bite to eat. When you're ready to head out, you may be interested in also grabbing an awesome new graphic novel from "I Like Comics" over on Broadway St.
Once you've picked out all of your reads for the day, venture over to Propstra Square where you can relax in the sun & enjoy your new stories!
4. Partiers in Pullman:
For a bite to eat, head out for a mid-afternoon lunch at The Coug, where you can chow down on some mouthwatering grub and ice cold beer. There's so much exciting nightlife in Pullman, despite being a relatively small town. Learn more about planning a day trip to Pullman, Washington.
5. Make a difference in the world, near Yakima:
Your morning will have never felt so influential after you spend a few hours at the Yakima Area Arboretum, where you can help out with tons of events like their Plant Sale, Garden Tour, Arbor Festival, Autumn Bounty, etc. For more information about events and activities, be sure to follow Yakima Area Arboretum on Facebook.
6. Sports lovers by Seattle:
Start off a ballin' afternoon by scoring some new 12th Man gear at the Seattle Seahawks Pro Shop at CenturyLink Field!
Once you're done shopping, fill up on some tasty food at the Hawks Nest Bar & Grill right by the stadiums. Head back and finish off your evening at a Mariners, Sounders, or Seahawks game (even more bonus points if we win!)
7. Artists near Olympia:
If you're feeling inspired, head over to The Painted Plate in our state's capitol city and create original kitchenware while drooling over their premium espresso, Olympic Mountain ice cream, appetizers or even wine!
Once you're done designing a masterpiece, you'll definitely want to make a stop at the Splash Gallery and be inspired by the one-of-a-kind contemporary fine works by local artists.
The next time you're looking for adventures and are researching "day trips near me in Washington," we hope this list comes to mind! How many of these destinations have you experienced? Be sure to tell us in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you!
Looking for some more adventures? We've got you covered! Check out this road trip itinerary that will take you to 7 majestic waterfalls in Washington.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!