21 Best Towns in Washington State (A Local’s Picks)

One of the things I love most about my home state is its many charming towns – from Wild-West mountain villages to rural island retreats. I’m a local and I’m happy to introduce you to some great small towns in Washington State, including several of my favorites. 

Note that this article focuses primarily on towns around western Washington. Check out Matthew’s article on the best small towns in Eastern Washington for even more gems. 

All right, let’s get started – here are the towns you don’t want to miss!

21 Best Towns in Washington State

North Bend

Featured in a famous TV series, this small town is the gateway to several popular hikes.

🏠 Population: 8,268 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in North Bend on Booking

Are you a fan of David Lynch’s Twin Peaks series? North Bend is probably already on your radar. 

North Bend is 40 minutes east of Seattle and is home to Twede’s Cafe (known as the Double R Diner on the show). Here, you can grab the Twin Peaks’ staple: cherry pie and coffee. Pair it with a trip to nearby Snoqualmie, which has even more Twin Peaks goodness.

North Bend is the gateway to several popular hikes near Seattle, including Mount Si, Little Si, and Rattlesnake Ledge. Not up for hiking? Visit the local parks for incredible views of the surrounding mountains. Or go blueberry picking at Bybee Farms, and stop for a history lesson at the Snoqualmie Valley Museum.

Gig Harbor

A mellow and romantic waterfront town with good restaurants and water recreation.

🏠 Population: 12, 604 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Gig Harbor on Booking

Gig Harbor is a small, maritime town nestled along the shores of a bustling little harbor. The town is just twenty minutes from Tacoma, but its vibe is totally different. Gig Harbor is a calm retreat from city life. It’s also the perfect place for water recreation.

Rent a kayak, take a boat tour, or book a gondola ride for two to get out on the harbor in style. Gig Harbor’s downtown area is a bit sleepy outside of summer, but it has plenty of shopping and dining options for year-round visits. 

Planning an off-season trip? Go to Devoted Kiss Cafe for delicious biscuits and gravy, and then head to the Harbor History Museum to learn a bit of local trivia. 

During the summer, attend the live music and outdoor movie series at Skansie Brothers Park, and visit Tides Tavern or 7 Seas Brewing to soak up the sunshine with a cold beer on a patio.

Stehekin

This tiny and remote community by the North Cascades National Park is a haven for outdoorsy folks.

🏠 Population: ~80 | 📍 Google Maps | Website

Stehekin is an unincorporated community that has around 80 permanent residents, making it the smallest “town” on this list. You can only reach this tiny village at the foot of the North Cascades by backpacking, riding a ferry, or taking a seaplane.

The journey to backpack to Stehekin isn’t necessarily for beginners, but it was one of my favorite experiences. It made the time I spent in this teeny community so much more special. Hang around the quiet town and recharge. Camp, go on day hikes, bike, and explore the North Cascades wilderness. 

No visit to Stehekin is complete without a jaunt to the Stehekin Pastry Company. There, you’ll find the most incredible sweet and savory pastries, including a cinnamon roll the size of your head.

Poulsbo

A cute town on the Kitsap Peninsula with Norwegian roots.

🏠 Population: 12,171 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Poulsbo on Booking

Poulsbo is, in a word, quaint. Visit the Heritage and Maritime Museums to learn about the town’s Norwegian history. In May, attend the annual Viking Fest for an immersive experience filled with food, drinks, games, and late-night festivities.

The downtown area has lots of worthwhile local shops for souvenir shopping. Make sure you also grab treats from the bakeries and cafes (Sluys is a classic!) to eat at Liberty Bay Waterfront Park. And don’t forget to try a few beers at the Viking-inspired Vallholl Brewing. 

👉 Want More WA Destinations?: Wondering why spots like Port Angeles, Walla Walla, and Tri-Cities aren’t on this list? Those places have populations of over 15,000, so they made my list of the best cities in Washington! Read that article next to learn about some more Washington destinations.

Port Townsend

A historic waterfront town with preserved Victorian buildings and cool festivals.

🏠 Population: 10,502 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Port Townsend on Booking

I’m a city girl, but if I had to choose a small town to move to, it would definitely be Port Townsend. Port Townsend is one of my favorite small towns on this list, and you should spend a good chunk of time in its bustling downtown on any visit. Here, you’ll find antique stores, art galleries, restaurants, historic buildings, and waterfront views.

Craving some adventure? Take a Port Townsend Bay Tour with the Northwest Maritime Center or explore abandoned military bunkers in Fort Worden State Park.

Like festivals? Port Townsend has several cool offerings. Come in June for the unusual yet lively Steampunk Festival. Or snag tickets to THING, a music and arts festival featuring up-and-coming artists.

Port Townsend is an ideal WA winter getaway, too, if you’re coming in the cooler months.

Winthrop

A mountain town with cross-country ski trails and a cool, Western-style downtown.

🏠 Population: 578 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Winthrop on Booking

Winthrop is a tiny Western town in the beautiful, recreation-rich Methow Valley. It’s a paradise for avid cross-country skiers. After all, Winthrop has a massive 120 miles of groomed ski trails. 

Plan a visit in early March to see the colorful Hot Air Balloon Roundup at sunrise on three consecutive mornings. Summertime brings hiking opportunities, along with fly fishing and horseback riding.

Winthrop’s small downtown area is a great place to recharge after a day of activity. Order lunch from Three Fingered Jack’s Saloon and grab cold, sugary ice cream from Sherri’s Sweet Shoppe. End with a brew from Old Schoolhouse Brewery.

Forks

Washington’s rainiest town with amazing access to the Olympic National Park.

🏠 Population: 3,418 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Forks on Booking

Forks is a small town turned popular tourist destination because it was featured in the popular Twilight book series. However, it offers visitors more than vampires and teen romance. It’s known as one of the rainiest towns in the United States, but if that doesn’t scare you away, plan a visit here. 

Forks is perfectly situated for exploration around the Olympic Peninsula. Go to Ruby or Rialto Beach on the coast, or check out the Hoh Rainforest and Sol Duc Falls. Don’t miss the Tree of Life in Kalaloch, one of the best things to do in Washington State.

Looking for things to do in town? Forks is admittedly sleepy, but you can spend a low-key day checking out John’s Beachcombing Museum or learn a bit of local history at the Forks Timber Museum.And yes, of course, there are Twilight attractions – check out the Forever Twilight in Forks Collection to get your vampire fix.

Long Beach

A relaxing town in southwestern Washington known for its long, sandy beach and annual Kite Festival.

🏠 Population: 1,756 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Long Beach on Booking

Go to Long Beach on Washington’s Long Beach Peninsula to relax and unwind. Unlike the pebbly sands of the beaches on the Olympic Peninsula, the sand on the southern coast is finer, giving it a more widespread appeal.

Spend your time clamming, crabbing, or fishing. Take an easy stroll along the boardwalk, or go on little trips to the historical sights around the peninsula, like Cape Disappointment State Park to the south. Visit some of the other nearby towns like Ilwaco and Ocean Park – they’re only about 10 minutes from Long Beach, after all.

Want to plan your trip around an event? Long Beach’s main spectacle is the annual summertime Kite Festival, where you’ll see the clear skies painted in color.

Langley

An artistic and easygoing atmosphere makes this a relaxing getaway.

🏠 Population: 1,146 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Langley on Booking

Whidbey Island, one of the best islands in Washington, has several unique towns worth visiting. Langley is on the southwest side of the island, and it’s my favorite. 

A laid-back, bohemian vibe permeates the tiny town. Art is prized and easy to find here. Admire local art at various galleries in the walkable downtown. Spend time by the waterfront, or relax in a coffee shop while watching dozens of wild bunnies hop around town.

Go to Braeburn for a delicious brunch and grab a slice of pie at Whidbey Pies for a treat. I always feel content and refreshed after staying in Langley, and I highly recommend booking a hotel or B&B here if it’s your first visit to the island.

Roslyn

A tiny, historic, ex-coal mining town once featured in a ‘90s TV series.

🏠 Population: 954 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Roslyn on Booking

People who watched the ‘90s TV series Northern Exposure may recognize some of the buildings in the tiny town of Roslyn. This historic coal mining town has several fun attractions and lots of charm.

Visit The Brick Saloon, a tavern that’s been in operation since 1889, to enjoy pub grub and cold beer with the locals. Then go to Basecamp Books and Bites, a well-stocked bookstore with fun events like weekly trivia and a summer outdoor movie series.

You’ve got loads of options if you’re craving outdoor recreation. Enjoy snowboarding, hiking, and boating on the nearby Cle Elum Lake. And don’t leave without visiting another worthwhile small town on this list: Cle Elum. It’s just a 10-minute drive away.

La Conner

A tiny town with waterside dining options, unique local museums, and annual Tulip Festival events.

🏠 Population: 982 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in La Conner on Booking

Quiet and picturesque La Conner is a small town in Skagit Valley. You’ll find a lot of activity here if you visit during the annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, but it’d be a mistake to only visit in spring. 

La Conner has lovely local museums. Start at the crafty Pacific Northwest Quilt and Fiber Arts Museum, and then visit the Museum of Northwest Art to peruse high-quality sculptures, ceramics, and paintings by PNW locals. There are several great waterfront wine-tasting rooms and cafes you can enjoy after your little museum tour.

One of my favorite things to do in La Conner is window shopping. Wander up and down the main strip and check out all the local gift shops, including one with kitschy kitchenware and another dedicated entirely to bunnies. 

Leavenworth

A Bavarian town in the Cascade Mountains with year-round entertainment and outdoor recreation.

🏠 Population: 2,412 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | Where to Stay in Leavenworth

Leavenworth is one of the state’s most popular towns, known primarily for its Bavarian-style atmosphere. October through December are the busiest times to visit. 

Come during Oktoberfest to indulge in German food, beer, and traditional music and dance. Or visit during the holiday season when the town comes to life with lights, seasonal performances, gingerbread house-building competitions, and other Christmastime festivities.

Prefer to avoid the big festivals and events? Visit in spring and summer when you can enjoy many of Leavenworth’s outdoor attractions. Go camping, hiking, and white-water rafting, or try the epic alpine roller coaster at Leavenworth Adventure Park.

Friday Harbor

A friendly and welcoming town on San Juan Island.

🏠 Population: 2,736 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Friday Harbor on Booking

All the major islands of the San Juan archipelago have cute towns, but Friday Harbor on San Juan Island is the most well-known. 

Visit this cozy community to learn about Washington’s favorite marine animal: the orcas. Start at The Whale Museum and then book a whale-watching tour to see the orcas in action.

Downtown Friday Harbor has tons of cute boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries throughout. The locals are a welcoming and creative bunch, making it easy to immerse yourself in the island’s culture, even on a short visit.

Snoqualmie

A town with a famous waterfall, hiking trails, and an interactive railroad museum.

🏠 Population: 13,465 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Snoqualmie on Booking

Snoqualmie is another great town for Twin Peaks enthusiasts. They’ll recognize Snoqualmie Falls and Salish Lodge from the show’s opening credits. 

Both places are worth a visit, whether you’re a fan of the show or not. Take a guided tour to Snoqualmie Falls, which happens to be one of the best waterfalls in the state. The restaurant at Salish Lodge and Spa is a great place for a romantic dinner.

Snoqualmie is only ten minutes from North Bend, meaning there’s plenty of hiking nearby. History buffs should also visit the informative, yet kid-friendly Northwest Railway Museum. The museum educates visitors about the impact the railroads had on the local economy. Plus, you can even take a ride on a historic train through the Snoqualmie Valley.

Snohomish

A pretty town with a lively, historic downtown and tons of shopping.

🏠 Population: 10, 243 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Snohomish on Booking

Snohomish’s bustling and historic downtown is where you’ll find some of the best this town has to offer. It’s full of antique stores, specialty boutiques, gift shops, and plenty of restaurants. Come here if you’re craving a relaxed day of shopping – Snohomish is an easy day trip from Seattle. 

The town is a good option for outdoor enthusiasts, too. It’s close to the popular Wallace Falls State Park, the Cascade Mountains, a golf course, and the Snohomish County Centennial Trail.

Vashon Island

A beautiful island with plenty of farms, uncrowded parks, and tiny beaches.

🏠 Population: 10,424 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Vashon on Booking

Vashon Island feels much further from Seattle than it is. My husband and I come here often when we need a break from the city. Despite being laid-back and a little sleepy, there are more than enough things to do on Vashon.

Explore the shops and restaurants downtown – The Ruby Brink and Giraffe are two of my favorite spots. Visit the beaches and parks throughout the island if you need a dose of nature. Point Robinson Park is one of the prettiest, with stunning views of Mount Rainier across the Sound. 

Simply driving around the island is a treat. Stop by all the little farm stands you pass and load up on delicious produce.

Chelan

The perfect town to relax, unwind, and explore the outdoors.

🏠 Population: 4,412 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Chelan on Booking

You don’t need to choose between relaxation and outdoor adventures when you visit Chelan – it’s ideal for both. Take a self-guided tour through the town’s many wine-tasting rooms or have a picnic and read a book at one of its waterfront parks.

Chelan sits on the shores of Lake Chelan, the third deepest lake in the country. It’s 55 miles long, which means there’s plenty of room for jet-skiing, tubing, fishing, kayaking, and swimming.

Take the Lady of the Lake ferry from Chelan to Stehekin to experience two great towns on this list at once. While there, you’ll have easy access to the breathtaking North Cascades wilderness.

Coupeville

One of the oldest towns in the state, located on a beautiful reserve.

🏠 Population: 1,928 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Coupeville on Booking

Coupeville is another one of Whidbey Island’s excellent tiny towns – it’s one of the oldest communities in the state, known for its Penn Cove Shellfish. 

Century-old buildings sit on its iconic wharf along Penn Cove, and the quaint downtown has gift shops, cafes, and (of course) wonderful seafood restaurants. While small, Coupeville gets lively during its popular festivals, including Musselfest in March or the Practical Magic Festival in October.

One of Coupeville’s biggest attractions is Ebey’s Landing National Historic Reserve. This beautiful reserve is full of wildlife, historic farm buildings, and stunning views of Puget Sound.

Sequim

A town in the Olympic rain shadow with beautiful lavender fields.

🏠 Population: 8,203 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Sequim on Booking

Sequim (pronounced “Skwim”) is a small town right on the edge of the Olympic National Park. Because it’s in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, Sequim is much drier and gets more sunshine than other towns in western Washington.

Sequim’s main attraction is fragrant and purple. During the summertime, tourists flock to this town to see farms full of lavender fields. Visit Sequim during Lavender Weekend if you want to know just how much you can do with these pretty blooms!

Afterward, wander through Sequim’s small downtown area to get a bite to eat at one of the many locally-owned restaurants and cafes.

Eastsound

A quaint Orcas Island community near a stunning state park.

🏠 Population: (Orcas Island) 5,387 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Eastsound on Booking

Eastsound is on Orcas Island, the second largest island in the San Juan archipelago. It’s technically an unincorporated community, but the historic village is the heart of activity on Orcas.

Grab a cocktail from The Barnacle or go shopping at the cute boutique shops in the downtown area (I highly recommend Forest Ceramic Gallery). The Orcas Island Historical Museum is an excellent place to learn a bit of local history. 

Craving a little less activity and more quiet? Head over to Moran State Park. It’s one of the prettiest state parks in the state. Hike, bike, or drive up to Mount Constitution for sweeping views of the islands, the Sound, and beyond.

Cle Elum

A scenic mountain town with plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts.

🏠 Population: 2,211 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Cle Elum on Booking

Cle Elum is perfect for mountain town enthusiasts. It’s in the central Cascades, so hiking, horseback riding, and snowboarding opportunities are all plentiful. You can also bike along the Coal Mines Trail, a historic trail that connects to the neighboring town of Roslyn.

There’s no shortage of good dining in town. Visit the popular Cottage Cafe & Fireside Lounge for delicious American food classics like cinnamon rolls, hotcakes, meatloaf, and cheeseburgers. Or head to Owen’s Meats for the best beef jerky in town.

Book a stay at Suncadia Resort if you’re visiting Cle Elum and want a touch of luxury. Here, you can soak in the beautiful surroundings in a cozy resort with plenty of nearby activities to keep you busy.

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Hopefully, now you’ve got plenty of ideas for great places to visit in Washington. Leave a comment to let me know which is at the top of your list!