We have small, quiet towns everywhere in Washington. Even though most people just think of all the technology and busyness in Seattle, we're also home to a lot of slower-paced communities that have more of an easygoing lifestyle. They don't have traffic or crowds every day, and everything is much more simple and less stressful. Listed below are 12 of the smallest towns in Washington where you can find this peaceful, much more enjoyable way of life.
1. Pomeroy
Pomeroy is a small, historic town in the southeastern corner of Washington, and it's also the only city in Garfield County. Surrounded by the Snake River, Blue Mountains, and Umatilla Forest, this community is lucky to have outdoor opportunities nearby all year.
2. Palouse
Palouse offers complete tranquility in the rolling hills of southeastern Washington. This town doesn't have a huge, corporate shopping mall, but you will find plenty of small local businesses with antiques, quilt fabrics, and thrifty treasures.
3. Langley
Langley is a great, quiet place to escape on Whidbey Island. The town's streets downtown are lined with charming small shops that sell books, antiques, and clothing, along with ample mom and pop restaurants.
4. Packwood
Packwood is a remote town that's surrounded by forest, only about nine miles from Mount Rainier National Park. The town is also known for hosting one of the most popular flea markets in the entire Northwest.
5. Zillah
You may know Zillah as the home of the Teapot Dome Gas Station. Located within the Yakima Valley, this slow-going community enjoys quiet, rural living with plenty of local wineries nearby in the Rattlesnake Hills.
6. Montesano
Montesano is a little friendly town between the coast and Olympia. As a small town of less than 4,000, the way of life is much more calm and slower paced. And with their great location by Lake Sylvia State Park, all kinds of outdoor opportunities are only a short drive away.
7. Brinnon
Brinnon is a tiny town on the shores of the Hood Canal. The town is best known for hosting the annual Brinnon Shrimpfest each Memorial Day Weekend.
8. Pe Ell
Pe Ell is a tight-knit community that's only about 45 minutes from Olympia. It's home to less than 700 residents year-round, so things are just naturally more quiet and peaceful.
9. Orting
Orting is a slow-moving town in the foothills of the grand Mount Rainier. This small community provides three gorgeous parks for the public, all lined with huge, shady trees, which are perfect spots for an old fashioned picnic.
10. Poulsbo
Poulsbo (or the Little Norway on the Fjord) is one of the most adorable, cozy towns you'll ever visit. It's set along Liberty Bay and features a historic downtown with Norwegian architecture and charming shops that sell books, antiques, clothing, and more. While you're in town, be sure to stop by Sluys Poulsbo Bakery and get a taste of their delicious world-renowned bread.
11. Washougal
Washougal is a small town on the banks of the beautiful Columbia River, just east of Vancouver. With such a great location beside the water, the community is able to enjoy world-class fishing and hiking opportunities without big crowds.
12. Winlock
The town of Winlock is known for having an egg so big you would need a frying pan the size of a truck to fry it. The "Worlds Largest Egg" proudly represents the small, quiet town's history as a major producer.
Have you ever been to any of these small towns in Washington? Let us know in the comments below. Also, share with us some of your favorite slow-paced towns in Washington.
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