Map Of Southern Washington
Exploring the Best of Southern Washington
If you’re planning a trip to Southern Washington, you’re in for a treat. This region boasts a diverse range of attractions, from natural wonders to cultural landmarks. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In this travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
If you’re looking for the most popular attractions in Southern Washington, you won’t be disappointed. The region is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the state, including Mount St. Helens, the Columbia River Gorge, and the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Other top attractions include the Washington State Capitol Building, the Tacoma Museum District, and the Seattle Space Needle.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Southern Washington has plenty to offer. Explore the unique geological formations at Beacon Rock State Park, take a scenic drive along the Hood River Fruit Loop, or visit the charming town of Astoria, known for its Victorian architecture and maritime history.
Food Scene
Southern Washington is home to a vibrant food scene, with plenty of local specialties to try. Sample fresh seafood at Pike Place Market in Seattle, indulge in artisanal cheeses at Beecher’s Handmade Cheese, or try the famous Walla Walla sweet onions. Don’t forget to visit the craft breweries and wineries in the region, which are known for their award-winning wines and beers.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save money in Southern Washington. Visit the state parks, which offer free admission on certain days, or take advantage of the many free museums and galleries in the region. You can also save money on food by dining at local food trucks and markets, or by cooking your own meals with fresh produce from the farmers’ markets.
Outdoor Adventures
Southern Washington is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking. Explore the trails at Mount Rainier National Park, go fishing on the Columbia River, or take a scenic bike ride along the Olympic Discovery Trail. If you’re feeling adventurous, try white-water rafting on the White Salmon River or ziplining through the forests of Skamania Lodge.
Historical Landmarks
For history buffs, Southern Washington is a treasure trove of landmarks and museums. Explore the historic forts of Fort Vancouver and Fort Nisqually, or visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center to learn about their famous expedition. You can also visit the site of the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption, which is now a National Volcanic Monument.
Family-Friendly Activities
There are plenty of family-friendly activities in Southern Washington that both kids and adults will enjoy. Visit the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium in Tacoma, take a ride on the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad, or go on a whale-watching tour in the San Juan Islands. You can also visit the Children’s Museum of Skagit County for hands-on educational exhibits.
Natural Wonders
From mountains to beaches, Southern Washington is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the state. Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway, hike to the top of Mount St. Helens, or explore the rugged beauty of the Olympic National Park. You can also visit the Hoh Rainforest, which is home to some of the oldest and tallest trees in the world.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for a night out on the town, Southern Washington has plenty of options. Visit the bars and clubs in downtown Seattle, catch a show at the Tacoma Dome, or try your luck at the Ilani Casino in Ridgefield. You can also visit the theaters and concert venues in the region, which host a wide range of performances throughout the year.
Local Markets
For a taste of the local culture, don’t miss the farmers’ markets and artisanal markets in Southern Washington. Visit the Pike Place Market in Seattle for fresh seafood and local crafts, or stop by the Olympia Farmers Market for fresh produce and handmade goods. You can also visit the Bainbridge Island Farmers’ Market for a taste of the region’s agricultural bounty.
Beaches and Mountains
From the rugged coastline to the majestic peaks, Southern Washington offers a unique blend of beach and mountain scenery. Visit the beaches of Long Beach and Ocean Shores for sand and surf, or hike to the top of Mount Baker or Mount Rainier for breathtaking views. You can also visit the ski resorts in the region, which offer world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter months.
Cultural Immersion
For a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural heritage, visit the museums and cultural centers in Southern Washington. Explore the Northwest African American Museum in Seattle, visit the Suquamish Museum to learn about the Native American culture, or attend the Greek Festival in Olympia to experience the local Greek community’s traditions.
Art and Music Scene
Southern Washington has a thriving arts and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and performance venues to explore. Visit the Seattle Art Museum to see world-renowned artwork, attend the Bumbershoot Music Festival in Seattle to see your favorite musicians, or visit the Museum of Glass in Tacoma to see live glassblowing demonstrations.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Southern Washington is on foot. Take a walking tour of the historic Pioneer Square in Seattle, explore the street art in Tacoma’s Hilltop neighborhood, or stroll through the charming town of Walla Walla. You can also take a guided tour of the region’s famous landmarks, such as the Space Needle or Mount St. Helens.
Architectural Marvels
For architecture enthusiasts, Southern Washington has plenty of impressive buildings and structures to admire. Visit the iconic Smith Tower in Seattle, explore the Art Deco buildings in Tacoma’s Theater District, or marvel at the modernist architecture of the Seattle Central Library. You can also visit the historic buildings in the region, such as the Washington State Capitol Building or the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.
Historical Sites
For a glimpse into the region’s rich history, visit the historical sites in Southern Washington. Explore the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site to learn about the fur trade, visit the Maryhill Museum of Art to see Native American artifacts, or take a tour of the historic lighthouses along the coast.
Biking Routes
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, Southern Washington has plenty of bike-friendly routes to explore. Ride along the Burke-Gilman Trail in Seattle, explore the Skagit Valley Tulip Fields on two wheels, or take a leisurely ride through the wine country of Walla Walla. You can also take a mountain biking tour of the region’s rugged terrain.
Wellness Retreats
For a rejuvenating getaway, consider a wellness retreat in Southern Washington. Visit the Doe Bay Resort and Retreat on Orcas Island for yoga and meditation, indulge in spa treatments at the Salish Lodge and Spa in Snoqualmie, or take a wellness hike in the Olympic National Park. You can also visit the region’s many hot springs for a relaxing soak.
Adventure Sports
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Southern Washington has plenty of thrilling adventure sports to try. Go skydiving over the scenic Snohomish Valley, try paragliding over the Columbia River Gorge, or go bungee jumping at the Cascade Mountain Adventure Center. You can also try rock climbing, zip-lining, or white-water rafting in the region.
With so much to see and do, Southern Washington is an ideal destination for travelers of all ages and interests. We hope this travel guide has inspired you to explore the best of this beautiful region.