Washington is home to some amazing and underrated cities, but some of our tiniest towns also hold the most charm. Every spot on this list is small in size but big on fun. If you're looking to relax and recharge, they're always worth visiting.
1. Carson
Tucked into a small piece of paradise just north of the Columbia River, Carson is best known for the Carson Hot Springs, a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. There's also plenty of outdoor recreation in the area (including waterfall hikes), and tasty eats and cold beer at the Backwoods Brewing Company.
2. Moclips
Need a beach getaway without the crowds? Just head to the tiny town of Moclips on the Olympic Peninsula (go in the offseason to avoid, well, almost anyone else). Enjoy beautiful beach walks and a peaceful stay at the Ocean Crest Resort.
3. La Conner
There's never a bad time to visit our charming little village on the Salish Sea. Walking along the waterfront on a warm summer day with a belly food of local seafood feels absolutely magical.
4. Palouse
The entire Palouse area is loaded with local history, and all it takes is one stroll down Main Street to fall in love with the town itself. Explore the Roy M. Chatters Newspaper and Printing Museum, paddle down the Palouse River, and grab a sandwich and a cup of coffee at Green Frog. And if you go around Halloween, don't miss Haunted Palouse, a citywide effort.
5. Skykomish
Blink and you'll miss the little town of Skykomish, which you'll find in the North Cascades on Highway 2. And while there's not much to the town itself, it's a great gateway to plenty of outdoor adventures, like hiking Surprise Creek or the Iron Goat Trail.
6. Colfax
If you went to WSU, you know Colfax as the final stop before Pullman (and perhaps you've received a speeding ticket there). But stop and get out of the car and you'll find good eats (Eddy's and Westside Pizza) and some cool things to see, like the Codger Pole and the historic Perkins House. Plus, the beautiful Steptoe Butte is right up the street.
7. Edison
Breadfarm's existence is reason enough to visit this tiny Skagit County town. But even if you're gluten intolerant, you'll find all kinds of shops, eateries, and artisanal goods here.
8. Stevenson
It doesn't get better than spending time right on the Columbia River. Add in a little wine tasting, a brewery right on the river (Walking Man Brewing), restaurants like the Big River Grill, and the elegant Skamania Lodge and you've got yourself the perfect getaway spot.
9. Waterville
Located amidst the wheat fields of north-central Washington, Waterville is small in amenities but big on charm. It's known as the home of the annual Big Bend Round-Up, which has been happening for more than 100 years.
10. Port Gamble
There's not much to this tiny New England style village, but it's a beautiful place to spend a day exploring. It happens to be home to the most haunted building in Washington, the Walker Ames House, pictured here (and yes, you can go inside if you book a tour).
Each one of these tiny towns has its own unique character. But if you'd like something with a few more amenities, you can always visit our Victorian seaport, Port Townsend.
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