Here Are 15 Of The Coolest Small Towns In Washington You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
When most people think of Washington, they usually just imagine Seattle. But there’s a whole lot more to this diverse state than just one big, bustling city. We’re also home to some of the most charming small communities, with historic buildings and mountainous scenery right in our own backyards. Here are 15 of the coolest small towns in Washington…how many have you heard of?
Ironically, you won't be able to get a Venti White Chocolate Mocha here in Starbuck. There isn't a single Starbucks anywhere in this teeny town of 125+. The community is luckily still in a great location, only about 20 minutes away from Palouse Falls.
Just north of Walla Walla, Waitsburg is an old, historic town with loads of charm and highly rated restaurants. It's actually the only community in our state that still operates under their own Territorial Charter.
Next up on our list of the coolest small towns in Washington is Raymond. Raymond is just off Highway 101, and known as the gateway to Willapa Bay. Three of the buildings downtown hold a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, including their theater, library and post office. The small town was also home to Nirvana's first gig, back in March 1987.
A New England-style village, Port Gamble has had a long, important history in Washington. It's the oldest company-owned town in our state, and their historic district is even registered as a National Historic Site. Downtown, they have a delightful antique shop and quilt shop, as well as a small, old-fashioned general store. Learn more about spending a picture-perfect day in this charming small town in Washington.
Located just east of Waitsburg, Dayton is a small town recognized for having a long, rich history. The community's home to the oldest train depot in the state, as well as the longest continuously used courthouse (since 1887!)
Nestled in the foothills just west of Mount Rainier, Elbe is a tiny town rich with German heritage. Train lovers could spend days here, exploring all of the railroad attractions. While you're there, you might consider spending the night at the Hobo Inn, a whimsical accommodation located in a train caboose.
Known as the gateway to Mount St. Helens, Toledo is a small town located along the Cowlitz River and Highway 505. It's a quaint little community to check out on the way to see our state's iconic volcano, or the nearby Ape Caves. While you're in the area, be sure to check out the unique sculpture park hiding nearby.
Moclips isn't as well-known as Ocean Shores or Westport, but the small coastal town is still just as serene to visit during the summer. It's a relaxing place to go for a walk on the sandy beach, digging for clams, or just to catch the sunset over the ocean. Looking for a place to stay while you're in town? Check out this cozy beachfront accommodation!
Wilkeson is a tiny old town less than 20 miles from Mount Rainier National Park. Many of the community's historic buildings still stand, including an elementary school that dates back to 1909. While you're there, check out this delightful pizza restaurant.
Glacier is the last town you'll pass through on Mount Baker Highway, before reaching the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The area draws in outdoor enthusiasts all year, for hiking and river rafting in the summer, and skiing/snowboarding in the winter.
Colfax is an old, small community by the rolling hills of the Palouse. The Waite Building and Ellis Block on Main Street are two of the many historical buildings you can see on the Historic Walking Tour through downtown, both constructed in 1893. Feeling up for a spooky adventure? You can take a haunted tour of an abandoned hospital in Colfax...if you dare!
Darrington is only about a half hour away from the North Cascades National Park, so local residents are treated to an up-and-close view of "America's Alps" every single day. Every year, the community also celebrates "Darrington Day" to highlight their culture, heritage, accomplishments and unbeatable surroundings. Looking for a great outdoor adventure? Check out the nearby Beaver Lake Trail for some positively breathtaking scenery.
Situated among wheat farming land in north-central Washington, Waterville is known as the home of the Big Bend Round-Up every year. The annual event has been going on for over 100 years, with rodeo events like horse racing, bull riding and steer roping. The town's also proudly home to the historic Douglas County Court House (pictured above). Be sure to stop by Coyote Pass Cafe while you're in town for a great pick-me-up.
Wilbur is another small gem in eastern Washington's wheat country. It's a quiet, perfect place if you love to be outdoors, with the Grand Coulee Dam, Lake Roosevelt, and Banks Lake all only about a half hour away. Wilbur is also home to an old-fashioned burger joint in Washington called Billy Burger Drive. You'll definitely want to check it out!
Last but not least on our list of the coolest towns in Washington, Concrete is only about twenty miles from the North Cascades National Park in Skagit County. The small town itself has a lot of key attractions, from the historic Concrete Theater to Silo Park, and the Henry Thompson Bridge, which spans the Skagit River.
Of course, this is only 15 of the many charming communities you can find around here. The list could go on forever! What are some of your favorite small towns in Washington? Do you think any of the coolest small towns in Washington missed the list? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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The OIYS Visitor Center
coolest small towns in Washington
September 24, 2021
Beth C.
Are there any ghost towns in Washington?
Indeed there are! There are at least a dozen well-known ghost towns in the Evergreen State. One of the most iconic ghost towns in Washington is known as Govan. If you visit today, you'll find that little remains of this town besides an abandoned schoolhouse, a few houses, and a post office. And yet there's something sinister about this particular ghost town, largely due to the fact that it was once the site of a terrible tragedy. What was once established as a railroad community quickly became notorious for an incident in 1902 that was characterized at the time as the "most brutal crime ever committed in the country." If you're curious to learn more about this terrifying event, be sure to read our article outlining the tragic history of this Washington ghost town.
What's the best mountain town in Washington?
While Washington is possibly most famous for its coastal destinations, it's also true that the mountains play a huge part in the Evergreen State's personality. For proof of this, look no further than the town of Roslyn. Tucked away near the Cascade Mountains just 80 miles from Seattle, this former coal-mining town is the perfect place to experience Washington's small-town charm. You'll find some great places to hang out such as coffee shops and bookstores, one of the most famous of which is known as Basecamp Books and Bites.
