There’s a running joke that summer in Washington begins after the 4th of July. When the sunny season begins, it’s time to hit the road and explore our beautiful state. And taking summer day trips in Washington is the perfect way to do so! We’ve put together some ideas for the best day trips in Washington, and we think you’ll love them too.

Obviously, depending on what part of Washington you call home, some of these experiences would have to be weekend adventures rather than day trips. But if all you have is a single day, we’ve got a few ideas for having some fun on some Washington day trips. Here are some of the best last-minute getaways in Washington for just one day:

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There are so many amazing towns perfect for summer day trips in Washington. Port Gamble is another! What are your favorite summertime destinations in Washington? Tell us your thoughts in the comments. Be sure to bring along some day trip snacks to sustain you!

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Best Day Trips in Washington

What are some unique things to do around Washington? 

Some unique things to do around Washington include:

  • Whale watching
  • Ye Olde Curiosity Shoppe

 

Washington is a breathtakingly beautiful state with all sorts of fun things to do, but if you prefer to avoid crowds, you might want to choose some of the more offbeat, unique things to do in Washington instead of, say, popular beaches or state parks. For example, did you know that you can go whale watching in Washington? It’s true – you'll find whale-watching excursions at the San Juan Islands, which is one of our favorite places to go in Washington during the summer. If you prefer more city-oriented shenanigans, check out the odd-but-awesome Seattle attraction known as Ye Olde Curiosity Shoppe. It’s been around for more than a century now and it’s a weird (but fun!) must-do in Washington when you’re here.  

Where can I go on some fun day trips in Washington?  

Fun day trips in Washington include:

  • Snoqualmie Falls
  • Lakes in Washington

 

No matter where in this state you might find yourself, you’re sure to find all kinds of amazing day trips in Washington to embark upon. Some of our favorite ideas for day trips in Washington include visiting some of the most amazing waterfalls in Washington, like the world-famous Snoqualmie Falls (which you might remember from, say, Twin Peaks), and there are lots of small towns in Washington worth an adventure, too. Alternatively, you can explore some of the most beautiful lakes in Washington if you’re a fan of those – there are more than 8,000 lakes in this amazing state to choose from. That’s not a typo – make your day trip a camping adventure at the lake. You won’t regret it.  

What are the best getaway spots in Washington?  

The best getaway spots in Washington include:

  • Gig Harbor
  • Olympic National Park
  • Vashon Island

 

Washington is a hub of activity when it comes to refreshing and/or romantic getaway ideas. Some of our favorite getaway spots in Washington include some of our gorgeous coasts and harbors. Check out Gig Harbor, which is an adorable maritime town that sits in the shadow of Mount Rainier. The mountain provides an incredible backdrop and the town is small enough to feel away from it all without being too far from home. Run away to Olympic National Park and spend several nights camping with your special person or maybe get a gorgeous cabin on Vashon Island or elsewhere.  

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