The Best Small Town Getaway in Washington: Best Things to Do in Eatonville

If you're looking for a weekend getaway, consider visiting this quintessential small town in Washington! Tucked away near Mount Rainier, this place is full of outdoor fun, exudes charm, and has unique local shops and restaurants. Whether you love nature and want to see beautiful waterfalls or you're fascinated by the town's history, this quaint place has something for every type of traveler. Still wondering which small-town getaway I'm talking about? OK, I won't make you wait any longer - let's discover the wonderful places to visit and fun things to do in Eatonville, Washington!

From the coast of Oregon to the mountains of Pennsylvania and everywhere in between, there are countless charming and captivating small towns across America worthy of a weekend getaway. Curated by our team of local travel experts, you’ll love our 2024 Small Town Getaways.

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History Of Eatonville

Situated in the foothills of the beautiful Mt. Rainier, Eatonville (Pop. 2,824) is a charming town in Pierce County, Washington, just south of Tacoma. The area has been home to the Nisqually people for many centuries, and notable figures like Leschi, born in 1808, have been part of its history.

In 1889, Indian Henry, a Nisqually guide, showed Thomas C. Van Eaton, the town's founder, the current location, where he set up a trading post for new settlers. The town was named after him and grew rapidly after the arrival of the railroad in 1902. Lumber mills popped up, making Eatonville a major center for logging. Farming in the nearby valley also played a significant role in the town's development.

While the lumber industry declined by the mid-1900s, Eatonville has reinvented itself as a gateway to Mount Rainier National Park and a popular tourist destination, offering attractions like the Northwest Trek Wildlife Park.

Is Eatonville Worth Visiting?

It is! Eatonville is the perfect mix of nature and small-town charm. Being so close to Mount Rainier National Park, it offers a convenient basecamp for exploring the park's beautiful views, wildlife-filled hiking trails, and amazing scenery.

But Eatonville itself isn't just a jumping-off point. After a day outdoors, unwind in the charming downtown area. Here, you'll find cute shops, delicious restaurants, and local galleries, all perfect for soaking up the relaxed and friendly small-town atmosphere.

Tip: Make a quick stop at Dogwood Park for a great view of Mount Rainier (seen in the photo above). You can find a small parking area there with an impressive vista of the mountain at this roadside park.

How To Get To Eatonville

To get to Eatonville, most people take State Route 161, which connects the town to nearby places like Tacoma and Puyallup. If you're coming from Tacoma, just follow SR 7 south until you reach SR 161, which takes you straight to Eatonville. Another option is to take State Route 7 from Spanaway or Interstate 5 and then connect to SR 161.

If you're coming from Mount Rainier National Park, take State Route 7 north and then SR 161. The closest major airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), which is about 70 miles northwest of Eatonville. You can rent a car there if you prefer to drive. If you don't want to drive, you can take a Greyhound bus to Tacoma or Puyallup and then use a local shuttle to get to Eatonville.

Getting Around Eatonville

Eatonville is very walkable and easy to explore on foot. You can find lots of shops, restaurants, and art galleries close to each other in the downtown area. If you'd rather drive, the town has good roads and plenty of parking.

Many people also enjoy biking on the scenic trails around Eatonville as well. While there aren't as many shuttle services as in big cities, you can still find some to take you to nearby places if you don't have a car. Eatonville is a quaint, relaxed town, so it's easy to get around and enjoy all the natural beauty and small-town character.

Best Time To Visit Eatonville

If you're thinking about visiting Eatonville, the best time to go really depends on what you like to do. In the summer, from June to August, you can explore Mount Rainier National Park and enjoy outdoor activities in nice weather. Spring, especially in May, is great for seeing beautiful wildflowers and lush green scenery, perfect for hiking and nature walks. In the fall, from September to October, the colorful foliage makes for scenic drives and great photo opportunities. Winter, from December to February, offers a peaceful, snowy landscape for those looking for a quiet getaway or winter sports.

Year-round, Eatonville hosts events like the Eatonville Arts Festival in August, which showcases local artists and performers. There's also the Logger's Jubilee in July, celebrating the nearby town of Morton's logging heritage with parades and competitions. Planning your visit around these events can give you a real taste of Eatonville and the surrounding area's culture and community spirit.

Don't forget this: Alder Lake Park (seen in the photo above) is an awesome place to go camping at any time of the year (except for an annual closure between Dec. 20th–Jan. 1st). You can also enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or boating in the lake.

Where To Stay In Eatonville

Discover comfortable and unique accommodations, ideal for exploring nearby natural wonders like Mount Rainier National Park and Mashel River.

Sunset Farm: Luxury Tiny Home Farm Stay

Stay at this tranquil farm retreat! This cozy two-bedroom, one-bath tiny home comes equipped with Wi-Fi, heating, cooling, and a fireplace, and is on a beautiful 20-acre working farm, surrounded by nature. You can hang out with the animals, take in the amazing views, and enjoy stunning sunsets.

The Airbnb is close to fishing lakes, hiking trails, and the NW Trek Wildlife Park. Plus, it's just a short drive from Mount Rainier.

The Nest at Left Foot Farm

The Nest at Left Foot Farm is a charming loft studio on a family-run five-acre farm 15 minutes north of Eatonville. The cozy space offers beautiful views and a peaceful escape. You can enjoy a queen-sized bed, a full-size pull-out couch, and a well-equipped kitchen.

Left Foot Farm provides interactions with farm animals, a secluded tub, and the opportunity to play with baby goats. Nearby attractions include rivers, lakes, Tacoma's cultural offerings, and Mount Rainier National Park, which is just 40 minutes away.

Eatonville Sights & Landmarks

Explore this historical rural community's rich heritage through its diverse sights and landmarks, blending history and architecture with scenic beauty.

Pioneer Farm Museum & Ohop Indian Village

The Pioneer Farm Museum & Ohop Indian Village, located near Eatonville, offers a special opportunity to experience what life was like for early settlers and Native Americans. At the Pioneer Farm Museum, you can go back in time to the 1880s and try activities like making candles, using a blacksmith's forge, and churning butter. When you visit the Ohop Indian Village, you'll get to learn about the culture and traditions of the local Native American tribes. They have traditional longhouses and demonstrations of crafts and practices.

This place is an important part of Eatonville because it's fun and teaches you about historical events at the same time. It's great for families, school groups, and people who love history. You can learn a lot about the area's cultural past and have a fun time doing it. The museum and village are really interactive, so everyone, no matter their age, will have a great visit.

Need To Know: Tours are available weekends in spring and fall, daily in summer, and closed from Thanksgiving to mid-March.

Roxy Theater

For over a hundred years, the people of Eatonville have been enjoying movies. It all started in 1910 when they could watch movies in Van Eaton's hall. Then, in 1915, Frank Van Eaton built the town's first movie theater. Imagine getting to see famous stars like Douglas Fairbanks and Charlie Chaplin in person!

After World War I, in 1922, an Italian immigrant named Mr. Pecchia took over the theater. He upgraded the movie experience by introducing "talkies" in 1930. Then, in 1942, around the time when the classic movie Casablanca was released, Pecchia built the Roxy Theater that still stands today, which has been beautifully restored to its former glory.

For almost a hundred years, the Roxy has been a vital part of Eatonville's culture. It offers a mix of old and new entertainment that adds to the town's history and makes it the perfect place to catch a movie.

Eatonville Activities & Attractions

Check out exciting activities and attractions, offering adventures from wildlife encounters and nature walks to historical explorations and wine tasting.

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park is a 725-acre park dedicated to protecting and teaching people about the animals native to the Pacific Northwest. You'll be able to hop on a guided tram tour (consider booking in advance) to see bison, elk, moose, and other big plant-eating animals up close in their natural surroundings.

The park also has trails where you can check out bears, wolves, cougars, and other meat-eating animals in big, open areas designed to look like their homes in the wild. Along with seeing the animals, Northwest Trek is open daily and has hands-on exhibits, educational programs, and fun events, making it a fantastic place for families.

Millpond Park

Millpond Park (and the neighboring Smallwood Park) is a lovely community park with lots to do for people of all ages. The park has a beautiful pond surrounded by trees, making it a great place for picnics, walks, and bird-watching. You can also go fishing in the pond, play at the playgrounds, or check out the advanced skateboard facility with a six-foot-deep bowl!

The park has nice walking trails for exploring the outdoors, and they often have events and gatherings. With all the things to do and the beautiful views of Mount Rainier, Millpond Park is an excellent destination to check out, especially if you're traveling with kids.

Tip: Before exploring Millpond Park, stop at the log cabin. Built in 1889 by Eatonville founder Thomas Cobb Van Eaton, it was a home, trading post, stage stop, and post office. Moved and restored in 1996, it now operates as the Stage Stop Museum.

Stringtown Cellars

Stringtown Cellars is a family-owned vineyard, Christmas tree farm, and u-pick lavender farm. It is located about 28 miles from the Nisqually entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park.

Stringtown offers small batches of wine made by winemaker John Adams using grapes from both on-site and eastern Washington. You can enjoy wine tasting and shop for lavender-infused treats.

You can also pick lavender and use the picnic tables overlooking the lavender fields and Mount Rainier. The lavender field is typically in bloom during July and August, and you are encouraged to bring your own cutters and containers.

Shops & Boutiques In Eatonville

This shopping scene is all about charm and local finds. The town is known for its small, locally-owned shops and boutiques. It's a place to wander, discover hidden treasures, and connect with the community.

Center Street Junction

Center Street Junction in historic downtown Eatonville is not your average shop. This 7,000+ square foot store combines thrift and vintage items with local artisanal products all under one roof. In the "Vintage Thrift" section, you can find hidden treasures donated by the community. You might discover a unique piece or a nostalgic gem.

Additionally, explore the "Mercantile," which houses products from over 90 local vendors, including handcrafted goods, artwork, and specialty items made by talented Eatonville residents. The store not only provides a shopping experience but also supports a good cause. Profits from the store benefit the Eatonville Family Agency, which helps those in need within the community. Center Street Junction thus serves as both a retail destination and a charitable endeavor, contributing to the local economy and community welfare simultaneously.

Founding Family Antiques

Visiting Founding Family Antiques feels like taking a step back in time. Located on a historic farm following an old country road, this 2,500-square-foot antique store has been around since 1963 and is filled with all kinds of cool vintage stuff. You can find furniture, kitchen items, and lots of other neat things that have a lot of history and character.

But it's not just antiques – they also have gifts and garden accessories, making it a one-stop shop for finding that perfect one-of-a-kind gift. The owner is very friendly and loves to chat about the antiques and the town's history. If you want to do some unique shopping and learn about local history, you should definitely check out Founding Family Antiques.

Restaurants In Eatonville

Enjoy a laid-back dining scene, where local restaurants offer a variety of delicious options from breakfast, lunch, and dinner to coffee and desserts.

Bruno's Family Restaurant & Bar

Planning to grab a bite to eat? Head to Bruno's Family Restaurant & Bar. This local favorite offers a welcoming atmosphere like a family-friendly sports bar. It's a popular spot known for its friendly and laid-back vibe.

They've got a big menu with lots of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the portions are pretty generous. They even have pup-friendly patio seating for your furry friend. Named after a friendly dog, Bruno's lives up to its reputation with super nice staff and delicious food, making it a great choice for families or anyone seeking a casual spot to eat.

Cruiser Cafe

Cruise in and enjoy a meal at Cruiser Cafe, a classic American diner in Eatonville. This family-friendly restaurant has a fun 1950s theme and serves all the comfort food classics like big breakfasts, juicy burgers, creamy milkshakes, and delicious homemade pies.

You can relax inside or grab a picnic table outside with a beautiful view of Mount Rainier (on clear days, of course!). They even have menu items named after local landmarks, like the "Big E" burger. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Cruiser Cafe offers a delightful taste of small-town charm.

Gypsy Wagon Espresso, Inc.

Gypsy Wagon Espresso, Inc. is a beloved coffee stand in town. They boast rich coffee flavors and friendly service - whether you prefer a classic espresso or a decadent mocha, their menu offers hot, iced, and blended drinks.

They're known for their fast service and excellent treats like muffins, including fresh-baked organic options. People in Eatonville love going there for tasty pastries and friendly faces. It's the perfect spot for a quick snack or a caffeine boost!

Mill Haus Cider Co.

Mill Haus Cider Co. is a great place to relax and enjoy delicious craft cider made with apples from the local area. They also serve local beers and dishes such as flatbread pizzas, salads, and desserts.

The atmosphere celebrates the town's logging history and features a water wheel, koi pond, and fire pits. Known for its top-notch ciders and friendly, chill vibe, Mill Haus Cider Co. is a popular spot and must-stop.

Nature In And Around Eatonville

Experience the great outdoors around town, where you'll find parks and trails perfect for exploring Washington's beautiful scenery.

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park, about 30 minutes from Eatonville, is a stunning natural sanctuary centered around the iconic Mount Rainier, an active stratovolcano that stands at 14,411 feet. The park offers a diverse range of landscapes, from lush old-growth forests to alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers. It is home to an array of wildlife, including elk, black bears, and marmots.

Highlights of the park include the Paradise area, famous for its breathtaking views and vibrant wildflower displays in the summer. The Sunrise area, the highest point in the park accessible by car, offers spectacular panoramic views and excellent hiking opportunities. The Wonderland Trail, a 93-mile loop around Mount Rainier, provides a challenging adventure for avid hikers.

You can also enjoy activities such as camping, picnicking, and ranger-led programs. The park’s proximity to Eatonville makes it a convenient and enriching day trip, offering visitors a chance to experience the majestic beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest’s most beloved national parks.

Need To Know: At the time of publication - entrance fees range from $15 to $30, with timed entry reservations required for Paradise or Sunrise during summer and limited parking available during peak season.

Little Mashel Falls Trail via Bud Blancher Trail

The Bud Blancher Trail is a moderate 4.6-mile out-and-back route that leads to the cascading Mashel Falls near Eatonville. While the first 1.5 miles are flat and easy, the latter part towards the falls can be muddy and steep, so good boots and trekking poles are recommended.

The trail offers a beautiful forest walk with scenic views and crosses the Mashel River on a wooden bridge. The main attraction is Middle Mashel Falls, but there's also a Lower Falls you can reach by a short side trail. If you're short on time, skip the Upper Falls as Middle Falls is generally considered the most impressive.

Other Notable Nature Spots: The family-friendly Millpond Trail and Washington's newest state park, Nisqually State Park.

Are you ready for a weekend road trip to this Small Town Getaway? Have you ever been? What are your favorite things to do while there? Let me know - I'd love to hear your recs! If you’re on the hunt for another Washington escape, then you have to check out this hidden gem.

And if you plan to hit the road to visit this area and are stopping for a night or two along the way. Then, don’t forget your trusty road trip packing list and road trip snacks, and take a look at some more cozy vacation rentals - they won't disappoint.

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