Don’t Let Your Summer End Without Experiencing This Perfect Washington Day

Here in Washington, we wait all year for summer, only to have it fly by in the blink of an eye. And while it's a bummer that these long sunny days and warm starry nights are fleeting, there's still plenty of time to savor the summer... especially if you set aside some time to have a perfect summer day.

We used Eastern Washington for this sample itinerary, but you can recreate this day no matter what part of the state you call home.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast somewhere amazing, preferably with a patio, like Spokane's Maple Street Bistro.

Maple Street Bistro is a charming coffee shop that serves fresh pastries, fruit, and savory breakfast sandwiches, which you can enjoy on the patio when it's not too hot.

Next, take advantage of the warm weather by taking a walk through the streets of one of our charming tourist towns.

Walla Walla involves a bit of a drive for most Washingtonians, but it's also absolutely delightful and worth the trip... especially if you enjoy wine tasting and shopping.

A perfect summer day in Washington definitely involves getting on the water.

Whether it's your own boat, a friend's boat, a chartered cruise, rafting, or going for a good old-fashioned swim, spend your afternoon enjoying your nearest lake, river, or sound. This is the Columbia River near Kennewick.

If time allows (or if you can't get on the water), enjoy a relaxing and scenic nature walk.

This is a view from the Riverside State Park Loop in Spokane, a 3.7 mile trail that's perfect for all skill levels.

We wait all year for outdoor dining season in Washington, so enjoy dinner on a patio under the stars.

Luna in Spokane's South Hill neighborhood is a perfect choice.

Last but not least, find the perfect place to go stargazing. Bonus points if you can pitch a tent and camp under the summer sky.

There's nothing quite like enjoying the stars on a cool summer night.

You're not imagining things: Washington state really does have the best summers. Enjoy what's left of yours to the fullest.