We’ve officially reached peak “cabin fever” season in Washington. Although it seems just out of reach, spring is on its way, and so is tourist season. Before the madness begins, get in your car this weekend and check out one of these under-the-radar spots. Getting out feels good, and exploring our beautiful state feels even better.
- Port Angeles
Jasperdo / Flickr While tourists flock to the nearby city of Sequim during the lavender season, Port Angeles often remains under the radar. But this little city can hold its own when it comes to natural beauty, attractions, and delicious dining options.
- Poulsbo
Historic Downtown Poulsbo Facebook Poulsbo has all the charm of Leavenworth and half the tourists, at least for now. Spend a weekend shopping for antiques, browsing the bookstores, and walking along the beautiful waterfront and you’ll fall in love fast.
- Centralia
George Bernstein / Flickr Located just south of Olympia, Centralia is a city that people really sell short. But the downtown historic district is on the National Register of Historic Places, and it’s full of cute shops and eateries. And if you’re a fan of outlet malls, you’ll love the shopping here.
- Chewelah
Chewelah, Washington Chamber & Visitor Information Facebook There’s not much to this small town in Eastern Washington, but if you’re looking for a quiet getaway with friendly locals, coffee shops, restaurants, and the fun Quartzite Brewing Company, you’ll love it here.
- Ellensburg
Jasperdo / Flickr Many Washingtonians see Ellensburg as a place to stop on their drive down I-90, but if you’ve never spent any real time there, you should. The historical landmarks and museums are awesome, and there are some wonderful places to dine (and drink).
- La Conner
Mark Pouley / Flickr It doesn’t matter how much of a city person you are or how comfortable you are with where you’re living. Spend 24 hours in La Conner and you’ll have at least one daydream of selling half your stuff and moving to the banks of the Swinomish Channel. You (probably) won’t do it, but you should really visit anyway.
- Lynden
Jasperdo / Flickr Lynden is located near Bellingham, but you’ll definitely feel like you’re in a different world. But it’s a world full of Danish bakeries and kind people, so you won’t mind.
- Republic
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr Winthrop might be our most famous Old West-style town, but Republic is the real deal. Founded during the gold rush of the late 1800s and early 1900s, it maintains a true historic charm.
- Coupeville
Coupeville Chamber of Commerce Facebook Located on Whidbey Island, Coupeville is absolutely delightful. Enjoy the Victorian buildings and eat as many Penn Cove mussels as possible.
We’re so lucky to call Washington home. These cities also make perfect weekend getaway destinations.
Jasperdo / Flickr
While tourists flock to the nearby city of Sequim during the lavender season, Port Angeles often remains under the radar. But this little city can hold its own when it comes to natural beauty, attractions, and delicious dining options.
Historic Downtown Poulsbo Facebook
Poulsbo has all the charm of Leavenworth and half the tourists, at least for now. Spend a weekend shopping for antiques, browsing the bookstores, and walking along the beautiful waterfront and you’ll fall in love fast.
George Bernstein / Flickr
Located just south of Olympia, Centralia is a city that people really sell short. But the downtown historic district is on the National Register of Historic Places, and it’s full of cute shops and eateries. And if you’re a fan of outlet malls, you’ll love the shopping here.
Chewelah, Washington Chamber & Visitor Information Facebook
There’s not much to this small town in Eastern Washington, but if you’re looking for a quiet getaway with friendly locals, coffee shops, restaurants, and the fun Quartzite Brewing Company, you’ll love it here.
Many Washingtonians see Ellensburg as a place to stop on their drive down I-90, but if you’ve never spent any real time there, you should. The historical landmarks and museums are awesome, and there are some wonderful places to dine (and drink).
Mark Pouley / Flickr
It doesn’t matter how much of a city person you are or how comfortable you are with where you’re living. Spend 24 hours in La Conner and you’ll have at least one daydream of selling half your stuff and moving to the banks of the Swinomish Channel. You (probably) won’t do it, but you should really visit anyway.
Lynden is located near Bellingham, but you’ll definitely feel like you’re in a different world. But it’s a world full of Danish bakeries and kind people, so you won’t mind.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr
Winthrop might be our most famous Old West-style town, but Republic is the real deal. Founded during the gold rush of the late 1800s and early 1900s, it maintains a true historic charm.
Coupeville Chamber of Commerce Facebook
Located on Whidbey Island, Coupeville is absolutely delightful. Enjoy the Victorian buildings and eat as many Penn Cove mussels as possible.
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