If you live in Eastern or Central Washington, it’s your last pit stop before you reach Seattle… and if the west side is your home, it’s the first break on your journey. The small city of North Bend offers some seriously tempting amenities to Washington travelers, and when you’re driving down I-90, you really can’t help but stop there.

Around 6,200 people call North Bend home.
Matt Johnson / Flickr
North Bend is now known as a bedroom community (meaning people live there but work elsewhere, mainly in Seattle), but it was settled by William H. Taylor back in 1889. Taylor had learned that a Seattle railroad wanted to establish a station on his farmland.
Once known as Snoqualmie (after the Snoqualmie tribe), North Bend has always been a popular place for tourists.
Jasperdo / Flickr
It’s a beautiful place to visit since it’s nestled in the foothills of the Cascades.
The main thing that tempts tourists to pull over is the North Bend Premium Outlets, a collection of outlet stores located right off the freeway.
North Bend Premium Outlets / Yelp
You can see the stores from I-90.
The row of gas stations and food restaurants near the freeway exit are where most people end their North Bend stop, but those who venture further into town soon realize what a great city it really is.
Brewbooks / Flickr

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Stop for a meal at the infamous Twede’s Cafe, the setting for the show Twin Peaks….
Jasperdo / Flickr
... but save room for a freshly-baked treat from Georgia’s Bakery & Cafe.
Georgia's Bakery Facebook
If you have time and the weather allows, head to Rattlesnake Lake Recreation Area.
zinescene / Tripadvisor
It's open all year for day use, and it's breathtaking.
Sip a glass of wine at Piccola Cellars.
Piccola Cellars / Yelp
And check out the unique gifts at Birches Habitat.
Birches Habitat Facebook

North Bend is definitely a perfect pit stop on your road trips east and west, but it also makes a wonderful day trip destination. Here are some other excellent day trip ideas.

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