25 Best Weekend Getaways from Seattle (By a Local)

The beautiful Pacific Northwest has plenty of cities, towns, and national parks for weekend getaways from Seattle. 

I’m a Seattle local and, in this guide, I’ll tell you about the places you don’t want to miss for an easy weekend trip full of adventure, rejuvenation, or romance. 

We’ll cover the popular spots plus local hidden gems. Prepare to explore vibrant communities and areas in Washington state. Here are 25 Seattle getaway ideas for trips that will be as memorable as they are fun.

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25 Best Seattle Weekend Getaways

Bellingham

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 2 to 2.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Bellingham on Booking

Bellingham is a gem of a city in northern Washington. Its proximity to Mount Baker and the North Cascades National Park makes it a particularly appealing weekend getaway for adventurers. But you don’t have to leave the city to find incredible things to do.

Come to downtown Bellingham to take a self-guided food tour through a tasty and innovative restaurant scene. If you get thirsty, you won’t need to search far for beer, cider, or wine. Go to Honey Moon Mead and Cider or Aslan Brewing to quench your thirst.

Another Bellingham attraction is Fairhaven, a cute village within the city that’s picturesque and filled with shops. Don’t miss visiting Whatcom Falls Park or learning all about electricity at the Museum of Electrical Invention.

Portland, Oregon

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 3.5 to 4 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Portland on Booking

Portland, Oregon is only 3 hours from Seattle, so taking a weekend trip to visit The City of Roses is a fantastic idea.

Spend some time getting to know the city’s most popular attractions. Visit Washington Park to see the International Rose Test Garden, the Oregon Zoo, and Portland Japanese Garden. 

Bookworms will fall in love with Powell’s City of Books. Foodies won’t have a problem finding tasty meals in neighborhoods like Hawthorne and Nob Hill. For something a little unusual, stop at one of my favorite hidden gems in the city, Fly Awake Tea House.

If you have time, I recommend taking a half-day Columbia River waterfall tour to see some of the prettiest places on the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge all at once.

Port Townsend

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 2.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Port Townsend on Booking

If a weekend spent in a picturesque town full of historic Victorian buildings sounds appealing, go to Port Townsend. It’s one of the best weekend trips from Seattle you can take. 

Book a room in a Victorian hotel to get started exploring this charming town on the Olympic Peninsula. Visit during the summertime to spend time at some of the smaller waterfront parks downtown. Stroll around Chetzemoa Park, a beloved hidden gem, or drive up to Fort Worden Historical State Park for hiking and beach camping. 

Port Townsend is also a great shopping destination. The town is full of antique stores, cute boutiques, and other small businesses with locally made treasures.

Vancouver, British Columbia

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 3.5 to 4 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Vancouver, British Columbia on Booking

Looking for a vibrant and world-class city to explore in nearby Canada? Vancouver, British Columbia is one of the best weekend getaways from Seattle. You won’t run out of things to do. Vancouver is the type of city that requires multiple weekend trips.

Start by taking a stroll through Stanley Park, visiting the Vancouver Aquarium, and getting a good meal and drinks on Granville Island. If you’re visiting during summer, spend time at the sandy beaches along English Bay.

Go beyond Vancouver proper and into North Vancouver to check out the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Here you’ll traverse the treetops of an incredible forest. 

San Juan Island

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 4 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in San Juan Island on Booking

Weekend getaways to the San Juan Islands are sure to be awesome. Out of the three major islands in the archipelago, I recommend going to San Juan Island for romantic weekend getaways (it’s a fun Seattle date idea).

You’ll be charmed from the moment the ferry drops you off in Friday Harbor. The small town is quaint and pretty, and there are plenty of restaurants and bars for a romantic dinner and drinks to follow. You won’t run out of fun things to do on this Washington island. 

Go to the popular Lime Kiln State Park or visit the Sculpture and Nature Park Reserve for outdoor excursions. In the summer, visiting Pelindaba Lavender Farm is a must. Take a romantic stroll through the purple blooms and purchase local products made out of lavender to enhance your stay. 

Port Angeles

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 3 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Port Angeles on Booking

A laid-back city in the Olympic Peninsula, outdoor lovers will adore Port Angeles. Book a stay in one of many bed and breakfasts and enjoy spending your days on the water, in the forest, or up in the mountains.

Hurricane Ridge, Lake Crescent, and Sol Duc Falls are some of the most popular sights to see if you’re staying in Port Angeles. However, you can also stick closer to town and visit Ediz Hook. Walk along its rugged beach and soak up incredible views across the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

The downtown area of Port Angeles is on the smaller side. Still, there are just enough good restaurants, boutique shops, cafes, and bars to keep you entertained after a day of exploring.

Mount Rainier National Park

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 2.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels near Mount Rainier National Park on Booking

Mount Rainier National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Washington state. Since it’s only a couple of hours from the city, it’s also one of the most popular weekend getaways from Seattle. 

Hiking trails abound in the park, including several which made my list of the best hikes from Seattle. You can backpack, camp, take a scenic road trip, or book an epic full-day tour through the park. 

If you visit in winter, go snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, or take a gondola ride from Crystal Mountain to get a bird’s eye view of the mountain.

Spokane

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 5 to 5.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Spokane on Booking

The second largest city in Washington state is Spokane. It’s one of the best places to stay if you want to get to know the eastern side of the state.

The big city has a lot for nature lovers. Check out the gorgeous gardens at Manito Park to understand why Spokane’s nickname is The Lilac City. Riverfront Park is the city’s main attraction. It spans 100 acres and has a waterfall, a huge skating rink, multiple playgrounds, and a ton more.

To see the cultural side of Spokane, go to the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture. Here you’ll find incredible regional art and intricate displays. It’s easy to spend hours exploring this modern museum.

Bainbridge Island

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 30 to 45 minutes | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Bainbridge Island on Booking

Bainbridge Island is one of the easiest day trips from Seattle. However, a weekend escape from Seattle to Bainbridge will help you experience even more of the island’s charms.

Get to Bainbridge via a short ferry trip from downtown Seattle. The small, but active community is centered around Winslow, which is within walking distance from the ferry terminal. Downtown Winslow has unique local shops, wine-tasting rooms, and Proper Fish, one of the best spots to get fish and chips in the area.

Venture to other parts of the island for nature escapes and camping. If you’re in search of the prettiest place on Bainbridge Island, go to the Bloedel Reserve. You’ll adore exploring this gorgeous and peaceful nature preserve in the north.

Get planning with my guide to what to do on Bainbridge Island.

Leavenworth

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 2.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Leavenworth on Booking

Leavenworth is a popular weekend getaway most well-known for being Washington’s Little Bavaria. The Bavarian-style village is charming and quaint. You can find great German food and tasty beer throughout.

Leavenworth is also great for those seeking adventurous pursuits or wellness-themed trips.

For a relaxing weekend, book a room at Post Hotel, known for its spa-centered experiences. Spend time at Waterfront Park along the Wenatchee River or visit the gorgeous Icicle Ridge Winery for tasty pours in a pretty, rustic space.

If you want to adventure, you can find it easily. Go hiking, river rafting, and mountain biking in the summer. Winter adventures in Leavenworth include snowmobiling, skiing, and even ice climbing.

Walla Walla

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 4 hours 30 minutes | Google Maps | 👉 Search Hotels in Walla Walla on Booking

Walla Walla is quite a drive from Seattle, but this makes it great for long weekend trips. Walla Walla is just a few miles from the Washington Oregon border. 

It’s located in Washington Wine Country, so wine lovers will especially enjoy a trip here. Wineries and wine-tasting rooms abound within downtown Walla Walla and in the surrounding area.

The dining scene in Walla Walla is also fantastic. Enjoy upscale dinners at Saffron Mediterranean Kitchen. Grab delicious breakfast classics at The Maple Counter Cafe. 

If you enjoy relaxing in beautiful areas in addition to wining and dining, Walla Walla delivers in that regard as well. Visit Rooks Park, and Pioneer Park, or drive an hour north to Palouse Falls State Park to see Washington state’s official waterfall.

Orcas Island

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 3.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Orcas Island on Booking

Another gem of an island in the San Juans is Orcas Island. The island is full of hilly terrain and wild and rugged landscapes. If you want a chance to get outdoors and discover what makes Orcas Island one of the best islands in Washington state, plan a weekend trip here. 

Enjoy the scenic, hour-long ferry ride from Anacortes to get to Orcas Island. There are plenty of hiking opportunities around the island. Visit Obstruction Pass State Park, Turtleback Mountain Preserve, and Moran State Park to hit the trails. 

Boating fans can tent a kayak from Orcas Island Kayaks to get on the water. Or book a popular, epic whale-watching tour to see orcas, humpback whales, and other wildlife around the islands.

To mingle with a good-natured community, check out Eastsound, the town in the center of the island.

Vancouver, Washington

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 3 to 3.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Vancouver, Washington on Booking

Vancouver, Washington is one of the southernmost cities in Washington state. It’s chock full of interesting history and a perfect place to explore the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge.

Fort Vancouver is one of Vancouver’s top attractions. The well-maintained 19th-century trading post is a good place to learn about the lives of the state’s earliest settlers.

After taking in some history, spend time on the bustling Vancouver waterfront and sample wine from numerous tasting rooms. Head to Esther Short Park to attend community events. 

If you prefer outdoor activities, drive 30 miles west to visit Beacon Rock State Park for pretty views across the Columbia River.

North Cascades National Park

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 2.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels near North Cascades National Park on Booking

Prepare for an epic weekend getaway if you choose to spend it at the North Cascades National Park. This is Washington’s northernmost national park and its wild terrain makes it a favorite among backpackers and nature lovers.

The Ross Lake National Recreation Area offers plenty of opportunities to get outside. Along with backpacking, you can wander the many hiking trails, kayak in crystal blue waters, and enjoy mountainous vistas. 

You can also choose to go on a road trip along the North Cascades Scenic Highway. If you do this, you’ll be able to enjoy beautiful sights and one-of-a-kind small towns like Winthrop along the way. 

Victoria, British Columbia

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 5 to 5.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Victoria, British Columbia on Booking

Victoria is another Canadian city you’ll want to visit on multiple weekend trips from Seattle. Book a fast ferry from downtown Seattle to reach Vancouver Island in around 3 hours. You can also drive to Port Angeles to take the Black Ball Ferry for a slightly longer, but much cheaper option.

A weekend in British Columbia’s capital city is promising for those who want romantic weekend getaways. Spend hours in the Royal BC Museum, get high tea from Pendray Inn and Tea House, and meander through the beautiful Beacon Hill Park. 

Don’t miss Craigdarroch Castle, a breathtaking Victorian-era castle and historic landmark. If you have time, drive north to Butchart Gardens to explore one of the most romantic places on Vancouver Island.

Whidbey Island

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 1.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Whidbey Island on Booking

Whidbey Island is the largest island in the state and offers plenty to keep people busy on a Seattle weekend getaway. It’s located south of the San Juan Islands. Take a 20-minute ferry ride from Mukilteo to get here. 

Visit restaurants, bars, and cute local shops in the unique towns that give Whidbey Island its charm. If you’re seeking a peaceful, nature-focused getaway, visit the incredible state parks on Whidbey Island. 

Deception Pass State Park is the most popular, spanning more than 3,000 acres across both Whidbey Island and Fidalgo Island. There are endless hiking, boating, swimming, and camping opportunities in this state park. 

Don’t miss Fort Casey State Park. Here you can visit a beautiful and historic lighthouse, and abandoned military bunkers, and enjoy sweeping views of the sea.

Long Beach Peninsula

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 3.5 hours | Google Maps | 👉 Search Hotels in Long Beach Peninsula on Booking

Visit the Long Beach Peninsula in the southwest corner of Washington state for a weekend getaway that will be laid-back and unhurried. The major towns, Long Beach, Ilwaco, and Ocean Park, are small. Casual restaurants and lodging options make this perfect for those looking for a stress-free weekend.

Long Beach has a long sandy beach perfect for walks, kite-flying, and even horseback riding. Visit during the Long Beach Razor Clam Festival to enjoy clam chowder and take clam digging lessons.

While on the Long Beach Peninsula, plan to also take a little trip down to Cape Disappointment State Park for stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean.

Lopez Island

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 3.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Lopez Island on Booking

Expect a refreshing weekend getaway on Lopez Island, the third largest island in the San Juan Islands. Nicknamed “The Friendly Isle,” Lopez is a great choice for families. 

Hang out with the locals in Lopez Village when you visit. You’ll find an excellent bakery, local restaurants, a seasonal farmers market, and, of course, friendly people.

Don’t forget to rent or bring your bike with you too. Biking on Lopez Island is one of the best activities to do here. The island is even known for hosting the Tour de Lopez, an annual race where cyclists from all over the state come to ride. 

Take some excursions north to Spencer Spit State Park or south to Iceberg Point. You can enjoy hiking, camping, wildlife watching, or lazy beach days.

Lake Chelan

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 3.5 to 4 hours | Google Maps | 👉 Search Hotels in Lake Chelan on Booking

Go on a romantic getaway to the Lake Chelan area to relax on the shores of the third deepest lake in the United States. 

If you stay in Chelan, you can easily go on a wine-tasting tour. Visit vineyards like Tsillan Cellars, Lake Chelan Winery, and more for great wine and equally great meals. The town may be on the smaller side, but there are plenty of fun little shops and a variety of restaurants to explore. 

My favorite thing to do in the Lake Chelan area is taking the Lady of the Lake Ferry across the water. You’ll have incredible views of the mountains rising on either side of you. At the end of the ferry ride, you’ll be dropped off in Stehekin. This is a hidden gem of a spot in Washington that can’t be reached by any roads.

Olympic National Park

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 2.5 to 3 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels near Olympic National Park on Booking

There’s a reason the Olympic National Park is one of the best places to visit in Washington state. Of Washington’s national parks, this one is the most accessible.

Hike or drive up Hurricane Ridge to see expansive and beautiful views of the Olympic Mountains. Wander through the lush greenery of the Hoh Rainforest. Relax in the hot springs at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort or check out gorgeous waterfalls like Marymere Falls.

One of my favorite things to do in the Olympic National Park is spend time on the many beaches. Admire the sea stacks jutting out of the Pacific Ocean or search the tidepools for all sorts of marine life. If you can, stay to witness breathtaking sunsets.

👉 Pro Tip: One of the best places to stay when visiting the Olympic National Park is the Kalaloch Lodges. This rustic lodging is close to plenty of great hiking and near popular beaches including Ruby Beach and Beaches 1 and 2. It’s also close to the Tree of Life, one of the most unique natural attractions of Washington state.

Vashon Island

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 1 hour | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Vashon Island on Booking

Vashon Island is only about an hour from Seattle and you can only get there via the Washington state ferry. A weekend trip is a good way to get to know the artsy and creative island.

Art lovers can spend a relaxing weekend checking out art galleries around downtown Vashon. Check out the Vashon Center for the Arts as well. This performance hall hosts musicians, plays, and films, and also has an art gallery inside.

Vashon Island also has some excellent food and drink choices. Go to bakeries, cideries, breweries, and top-rated restaurants.

I also recommend taking a leisurely drive around the rural island. Stop at local farm stands along the way where you can get enough fresh produce for a delicious homemade dinner.

Hood Canal

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 2 to 2.5 hours | Google Maps | 👉 Search Hotels near the Hood Canal on Expedia

The Hood Canal is right between the Olympic Peninsula and Kitsap Peninsula. It runs north and south along various small towns. This is a great area for oyster harvesting, kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming.

Visiting the Hood Canal makes for a good weekend getaway if you want to spend it in a remote, relaxing, and rural area. In addition to getting on the water, you can wander trails through pretty forests and search for waterfalls. Dine at restaurants in small towns like Union or Brinnon.

Vacation rentals, private cabins, and campgrounds are plentiful in the area. These are some of the best options for places to stay for a weekend along the Hood Canal.

Mount St Helens

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 3.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels near Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument on Tripadvisor

Mount St Helens is stunning, in part because of its iconic shape from the infamous explosion in 1980. If you’re searching for outdoor weekend trips from Seattle, this is a great choice.

At Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument you’ll find hiking trails through flowery meadows and caves formed by cooled lava. Enjoy scenic lakes and watch wildlife like black bears, elk, and mountain goats.

Avid campers and backpackers will want to visit during spring, summer, and early fall to experience the best of this National Monument. Don’t miss a stop at the Johnson Ridge Observatory to see some of the iconic vistas from this viewpoint. 

Ellensburg

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 2 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Ellensburg on Booking

Ellensburg is an excellent day trip from Seattle, but a long weekend trip will help you discover more of this college town’s charms.

There are plenty of cool things to do in Ellensburg. If you enjoy history, you’ll love all the historic buildings in downtown Ellensburg like the iconic Davidson Building. You can also take a tour through the Kittitas County Historical Museum to learn about some local history. 

If you get thirsty from all the exploration, grab a drink at Ellensburg Brewing, Whipsaw Brewing, or The Mule. Places like The Early Bird, Palace Cafe, and the Ellensburg Pasta Company are some of the best to grab a meal at.

Anacortes

🗺️ Distance from Seattle: 3.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Anacortes on Booking

Just south of the San Juan Islands, you’ll find the city of Anacortes on Fidalgo Island. Anacortes is where you’ll catch the ferry to get to the San Juan Islands, but the small city has its own charms.

Go to Anacortes for a weekend getaway if you want to spend time outdoors during the day and kick back with a fun small-town community in the evenings. Chow down on great seafood from Adrift, catch a show at The Heart of Anacortes and check out Cape Sante for great views. 

Drive south to Deception Pass State Park to relax at Rosario Beach and Bowman Bay. From downtown Anacortes, you can also catch a ferry to the tiny Guemes Island which is another great place to relax.

FAQs About Weekend Getaways from Seattle

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There are so many weekend getaways from Seattle that you can take if you need a fun getaway from the city. From the San Juan Islands to Walla Walla, your options are endless. I hope this list has given you good ideas for some of the Seattle weekend getaways in the Pacific Northwest!