There is nothing like summer. But, within weeks, kids who were so looking forward to the end of the school year will begin to complain of boredom. Fortunately, we have good news. We've put together a list of summer activities for the whole family to enjoy. Start checking off that summertime bucket list. Here are 10 summer activities in Washington that you don't want to miss.
1. Take a scenic drive.
Washington State is full of natural beauty, and sometimes the best way to see it is by taking a scenic drive. Coulee Corridor National Scenic Byway boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in the state and spans about 150 miles. Summer is the perfect time to go for a drive and take in our state's beauty. There's so much to see and do, it's always advisable to allow extra time for stops along the way.
2. Go on an adventure to find the best milkshake.
Clearly, everyone has their opinion on the very best milkshakes in Washington. We've compiled a list of our milkshake favorites. Why not spend a day searching for the best shake in the state?
3. Spend the day at a little-known state park.
Summer is a great time to explore some of Washington's spectacular state parks. However, sometimes you want a quiet escape far from large crowds. Leadbetter Point is a little-known state park with forested trails and sandy beaches. Besides being one of the most beautiful parks in the state, it's also one of the lesser visited, making it a great destination for a peaceful getaway.
4. Forage for wild mushrooms.
Learn all about wild culinary mushrooms on the Whidbey Wild Mushroom Tour. Mush your way through the forest as you forage for fungi with your knowledgeable forest guide.
5. Dine inside a Ferris wheel gondola.
For an unquestionably unique dining experience, reserve a table in a private Ferris wheel gondola on Seattle's Great Wheel. Savor a four-course meal and enjoy the city views in a whole new way.
6. Check out a ghost town.
Just because the kids are out of school, they don't have to stop learning. Head to Okanogan County to visit the Old Molson Ghost Town Museum. Take a self-guided tour through Molson and learn about the life of early settlers.
7. Wander through a valley covered in lavender.
Although lesser known than the lavender fields of Sequim, Selah Ridge Lavender Farm is a lovely farm in the picturesque Yakima Valley. Besides the rows of fragrant lavender, the farm features a lavender labyrinth spiraling in hues of purple.
8. Visit an outdoor flea market.
It's time for a winter purge and there's no better place to find new (old) items for your home and closet than the SODO Flea Market. Shop for treasures from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month. Who knows? You might just find the perfect vintage sun hat to complete your summer wardrobe.
9. Try farm-to-table brews and bites.
There's nothing like a cold beer on a warm summer day. And if you can enjoy that beer in a beautiful setting, it's even better. Yoked Farmhouse and Brewery offers farm-to-table brews and bites on 20 acres of pastoral beauty. Enjoy live music and specialty ales at this family-owned farm and taproom.
10. Explore a natural wonder.
Mt. Rainier is unquestionably one of the most beautiful landmarks in Washington. The Naches Loop Trail is an easy 3.5-mile hike with breathtaking views of the mountain and surrounding foothills. We recommend packing a lunch and spending the day enjoying the view.
So there you have it — 10 sunny summer activities to do this year. Mark your calendar and get going. Summer will be here and gone in the blink of an eye.
What do you think of our summer to-do list? What would you add? Let us know in the comments.
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