26 Essential Washington Experiences To Plan for 2026

As a born-and-raised Washingtonian, I never quite appreciated how special this state truly is while I was growing up here. I just assumed everyone in the PNW grew up with the faint outline of Mount Rainier right outside their front door! It wasn't until later in life that I realized the incredible beauty and unmatched diversity of the Evergreen State from corner to corner—its wild and scenic hikes, jaw-dropping waterfalls, dense forests, rocky coastlines, and all the diverse ecosystems, terrains, and underrated wonders in between.

To be honest, it'll take a lifetime to see and experience everything that Washington has to offer, but with 2026 marking more than a quarter of a century into the new millennium, there's never been a better time to check a few more things off my (ever-growing) Washington bucket list. This year is all about in-depth experiences, so here's to diving into the magic of the 42nd State with both feet:

1. Enjoy a Magical Date Night at Canlis in Seattle

Canlis, the iconic fine-dining restaurant in Seattle, has garnered quite a bit of attention over the years for its phenomenal cuisine, unrivaled views of Lake Union, and dreamy ambiance. At night, tiny lights hidden in the ceiling mirror the twinkling lights of the city, creating the most incredible dining experience one could hope for. There's a reason why Canlis regularly tops nearly every "best of Seattle" dining list! Any menu suggestions?

2. Visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum

It's no secret that SoDo has a serious art scene, with museums like the Seattle Art Museum and Museum of Pop Culture beckoning fellow art enthusiasts from around the globe. But for all the elementary school field trips and big city outings I've taken, I've still yet to see the vibrant Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum for myself. This fantastic gallery museum and outdoor garden showcases a rainbow of glass artistry by Tacoma native Dale Chihuly, whose work is inspired by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

3. Witness the King Tides

While coastal tides may not seem all that special, some spectacles are simply too epic to miss. My camera and I are bundled up, waterproofed, and at the ready! (From a safe distance, of course.)

4. Stay in the Cozy Bear Creek Treehouse

A long weekend spent sleeping in the trees has always been on my last-minute getaway list, and this sweet little treehouse in Sultan boasts some majorly cool features to go with the forest views. It's small, cozy, and has everything you could possibly want for a remote getaway: a massive wrap-around deck, a dreamy elevated hot tub, a movie projector, a fireplace, and much more.

5. Snowshoe Artist Point in Winter

While powder-crushing the slopes is hard to beat, snowshoeing is actually one of my favorite winter activities as the slower, crowd-free pace allows for better sightseeing and more opportunities to stop for impromptu snowball fights. Snowshoeing to Artist Point in the winter is a well-known adventure in the North Cascades that features stunning panoramic views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. What's not to love?

6. Book an Extended Vacay on San Juan Island

While the San Juan Islands are often associated with their awe-inspiring whale sightings and tours, there's a whole lot more to this archipelago than just the local aquatic life—so much so that spending an entire week here wouldn't be enough! A trip to the San Juan Islands National Historical Park on San Juan Island, Lime Kiln Point State Park, The Whale Museum, and the San Juan Islands Museum of Art are just a few of the many things to discover on the second largest island in the San Juans. Then, I fully intend to follow it all up with an incredible, locally sourced meal at the nationally recognized Duck Soup in Friday Harbor.

7. Hike the Ancient Lakes Trail

Basalt cliffs, waterfalls, lakes, desert landscapes—when history and hiking collide, it makes my wandering heart ecstatic. This unique trail offers a glimpse into the powerful Ice Age floods that shaped this slice of Washington eons ago, while also being a relatively easy jaunt through multiple natural and geological wonders. Bonus: every season is a unique experience—even winter!

8. Hike the Colchuck Lake Trail

There's no shortage of stunning hikes in Washington, but some have a little extra magic about them. Surrounded by the jagged walls of Dragontail Peak and Colchuck Peak in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, the challenging, but jaw-dropping, trail to Colchuck Lake reveals turquoise waters ringed by craggy peaks. It's undeniably one of the state's most stunning and photo-worthy spots, and the iconic trail has long been calling my name.

9. Hike the Palouse to Cascades Rail Trail

Rather than hopping from spot to spot around the state, I'd also love to experience Washington's diverse beauty all in one epic journey. The 285-mile Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail offers a one-of-a-kind way to experience the state's widely varied landscapes, from the lush, misty forests of the Cascades to the rolling wheat fields of the Palouse. It follows the path of the historic Milwaukee Road, a transcontinental railroad built in the early 1900s, and features landmarks like the 2.3-mile Snoqualmie Tunnel and soaring steel trestles—epic spots that I can't wait to experience first-hand!

10. Ride the Lady of the Lake to Stehekin

A ride on the Lady of the Lake to Stehekin is equal parts journey and destination, and there are a million and one reasons why it's on my list. The ferry glides across the stunning, glacier-fed waters of Lake Chelan, surrounded by towering peaks and rugged wilderness, before arriving at the remote town of Stehekin—accessible only by boat, plane, or trail. My plan? Savor some fresh-baked cinnamon rolls from the Stehekin Pastry Company, tackle an easy hike or two, and enjoy the off-grid, quintessential PNW beauty.

11. Camp at Ross Lake

Secluded activities seem to be the theme of this year's list, and Ross Lake is no exception. Setting up camp on the shores of this glacial-fed reservoir, which is accessible only by boat or trail, sounds like my kind of getaway! If pitching a tent on the cold, hard ground isn't your idea of an ideal overnight stay, Ross Lake Resort has a number of simple, but darling, cabins that are right on the water.

12. Attend Village of Lights: Christmastown in Leavenworth

There's probably not a more iconic place to visit in Washington during the holidays than the town of Leavenworth. Designed to look like a Bavarian mountain village, this charming town goes all out for Christmas when it decks its halls for its annual Village of Lights: Christmastown celebration.

13. Hike Beacon Rock

I can't say no to a good rock formation, and fortunately for me, Washington has plenty to choose from! The highlight of Beacon Rock State Park, Beacon Rock is a massive 848-foot basalt volcanic plug within the Columbia River Gorge. But it's not just one of the coolest rock formations in the state—it has some neat history too, having been named by the Lewis and Clark Expedition all the way back in 1805. It also offers a hike to the summit with 52 switchbacks and boasts stunning views of the Columbia River and surrounding landscapes.

14. Watch a Film at the Largest Drive-in Theatre in the PNW

Looking for a silver screen experience unlike any other? Bremerton’s Rodeo Drive-in Theatre opens every spring to showcase films that you can view from the comfort of your car. A summer tradition for many, you can watch a double feature, stock up on snacks from the snack bar, and enjoy the magic of cinema under the night sky.

15. Stay at the Sun Mountain Lodge in Winthrop

Nestled in the heart of the Methow Valley and perfectly blending cozy ski lodge architecture with modern luxuries, Sun Mountain Lodge in Winthrop, Washington offers a spectacular escape surrounded by equally breathtaking natural beauty. The historic lodge dates all the way back to 1968, and features flawlessly renovated rooms and cabins with stunning views of the North Cascades. Plus, with a state-of-the-art spa, multiple dining options, and cozy fireplaces rounding out the amenities, it's the perfect all-seasons retreat for some relaxing "me time."

16. Explore the Coulee Corridor Scenic Byway

The Coulee Corridor Scenic Byway is, in my opinion, one of Washington's most underrated scenic drives. While I've been fortunate to experience parts of it, I've never embarked upon the full route from point to point. The byway stretches 150 miles through central Washington, winding through dozens of geological marvels shaped by ancient floods and volcanic activity. It's a beautifully diverse drive that shows off towering basalt cliffs, shimmering lakes, and unique coulees carved by the catastrophic Missoula Floods, before ending at the behemoth Grand Coulee Dam.

17. Visit the Maryhill Stonehenge

When a European vacation isn't in the cards this year, but you still want to see Stonehenge in person, The Maryhill Stonehenge on the grounds of the Maryhill Museum of Art is a full-scale replica worth visiting, especially if you're like me and have a long family history of military service.

18. Dine at The Pink Door in Seattle

Hidden in plain sight, delightfully unexpected, and beautifully decked out in deep reds, vibrant pinks, and rich gold accents, The Pink Door is one of those spots that seems to speak for itself. It's also been nationally recognized for its delectable Italian cuisine, entertaining live performances (think cabaret and trapeze acts), and cozy, eclectic atmosphere, making it a fantastic meal and five-star experience in one.

19. Sleep on the Water at The Edgewater Hotel in Seattle

Washington has no shortage of waterfront views, but a stay literally on the water is something everyone should do at least once! One of the best hotels in Seattle, think of The Edgewater Hotel as your own personal cruise ship but without the need for sea legs.

20. Tour the Wooden Boat Festival in Port Townsend

The Wooden Boat Festival in Port Townsend is an unmissable event that's sure to float your boat, whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a die-hard landlubber (or somewhere in between like myself). Every September, the waters of Port Townsend Bay come alive with sails, wood, and skipper stories at this unique maritime celebration, which is set against a gorgeous backdrop of the Olympic Mountains.

21. Ride the Mount Rainier Railroad in Autumn

Washington's crown jewel, there are few sights as majestic as Mount Rainier—whether admired from afar or up close on a spectacular hike through Mount Rainier National Park. The Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad offers a picturesque journey through the foothills of Mt. Rainier and along the Columbia River Gorge, complete with stunning views of rolling farmlands, dense forests, and majestic mountains. In the fall, the scenery is nothing short of breathtaking, especially for fellow photographers, with towering trees dressed in their autumn best and waterways reflecting all that gorgeous color.

22. Drive the Washington Portion of the International Selkirk Loop in Fall

The Olympic Coast gets much of the state's glory, but the portion of the 280-mile International Selkirk Loop that goes through Northeast Washington is well worth a spot on anyone's bucket list. And in the fall? Absolutely stunning. You'll pass through plenty of beautiful towns as well, like the charming community of Metaline Falls.

23. Stay at Fox Haven on the River

While sleeping well above the forest floor is a childhood dream of mine come true, a classic cabin by the water is never a bad idea—especially when it has room for the whole family. The Fox Haven in Baring is vibrant, homey, and comes loaded with fun games and extras (like the fire pit and hot tub), beautifully set right on the water, yet only a short drive from Seattle and Stevens Pass Mountain Resort.

24. Attend Oktoberfest Northwest in Puyallup

The Evergreen State's biggest and boldest Oktoberfest celebration is Oktoberfest Northwest at the Washington State Fairgrounds in Puyallup. Revelers can expect music, dancing, events like wiener dog races, and, of course, plenty of beer. So, load up your lederhosen, don your dirndls, and make your way to Puyallup this October.

25. Town to Visit in Washington: Ellensburg

I used to think Ellensburg was only known for its rodeo, but that was before I discovered how much this little town in Central Washington has to offer! Of course, the beloved Ellensburg Rodeo, which has been held every Labor Day weekend since 1923, is a nationally recognized highlight, there are endless things to love about this small town. The Manastash Ridge Observatory, Clymer Museum of Art, Yakima River Canyon Scenic Byway, its historic downtown, and Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center are just a few of the things on my growing list of reasons to visit.

26. See a Washington Castle

The Evergreen State is home to multiple castle-like buildings, including the Tudor-Gothic expanse known as Thornewood Castle where you can spend the night in luxury. There are also those viewable from the road like Vercler Castle in Spokane or the Junk Castle in Whitman County. Why not make a road trip of it and visit several of these striking structures?

This list is just a limited snapshot of all there is to see, do, and discover in Washington, but when you live in the most beautiful state in the country, you're guaranteed to never run out of ideas! As we slide from summer into autumn, there is still plenty of time to make memories and (re)fall in love with the Evergreen State, whether you tackle these adventures or those on your own bucket list. Be sure to let us know about any fantastic new businesses or stops you think are worth making a detour for.

Ready to start planning your next adventure for 2026? Plan your own bucket list trip in Washington with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.