While it’s always fun to travel to far-off lands, sometimes our best vacations take place right here in the Evergreen State. There’s plenty to see, do, eat, and experience here, and you don’t always need an entire weekend to do it. We’ve compiled a list of 12 of the best day trips in Washington, one for each month of the year. And while some might require overnight accommodation if you live too far away, they’re all trips that are well worth taking.

1. January: Chelan
Chelan, WA 98816, USA
Lake Chelan Facebook
You might think summer is the best time to visit Chelan -- and if you're looking to go boating or swimming, that might be true. But January's Winterfest showcases the sheer beauty of the area in the wintertime. And one day is all you really need to have an amazing experience.
2. February: Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island, Washington, USA
Jasperdo / Flickr
If you can make it to Whidbey Island and back in a day, February is actually a fantastic time to go. The sleepy little island towns have plenty of restaurants, shops, galleries, and movie theaters, and the annual Red Wine & Chocolate Tour is always a good time. A visit here is most definitely one of the best day trips in Washington.

3. March: Winthrop
Winthrop, WA 98862, USA
Winthrop Washington Facebook
Winthrop would be a tough day trip for most Washingtonians, but it's also worth booking a stay at a cozy cabin or Sun Mountain Lodge. That way, you can enjoy March's Balloon Roundup to the fullest, as it is one of the most popular and unique things to do around Washington.
4. April: Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, 311 W Kincaid St, Mount Vernon, WA 98273, USA
Jim Culp / Flickr
Yes, the annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is crowded on weekends and tough to get to unless you live in Western Washington. That being said, the tulip fields are absolutely stunning, and it's a trip worth taking.

5. May: Yakima Valley
Yakima Valley, WA, USA
TJ Mullinax / Flickr
Yakima's annual Spring Barrel Tasting event is always at the end of April, and it's a blast... but it's crowded. By mid-May, all the new wine is in full rotation, and the spring weather tends to make wine tasting especially pleasant. If you decide to embark on this day trip, you'll definitely want a designated driver.
6. June: Mt. Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington, USA
Diana Robinson / Flickr
Mt. Rainier National Park looks equally amazing blanketed in snow as it does in the summertime. But in late June, most of the hiking trails are open, and the wildflowers are starting to peek through. What a way to welcome summer's arrival!

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7. July: Sequim Lavender Festival
Sequim Lavender Festival, 202 N Blake Ave, Sequim, WA 98382, USA
Katy / Flickr
If you live within a couple of hours of Sequim, it's well worth it to head over for a day of the annual Lavender Festival. Not only are the lavender fields absolutely enchanting (and soothing), but the little city has a lot to offer in terms of restaurants, shops, and natural beauty. Festival or not, a visit to Sequim always makes for one of the best day trips in Washington!
8. August: Long Beach
Long Beach, WA 98631, USA
Udo S/Flickr
We'll be the first to admit that getting to Long Beach and back home in a day isn't feasible for many Washingtonians. But if you can do it, you can catch a day of the annual Washington State International Kite Festival and grab a meal at well-known and loved Captain Bob's Chowder before making it home in time for bed without worrying about finding a hotel room at the last minute.
9. September: Seattle
Seattle, WA, USA
Michael Gwyther-Jones / Flickr
From food festivals and comedy shows to concerts and sporting events, Seattle, also known as "The Emerald City," always has something going on. But since summers tend to arrive late and linger here, you can enjoy a beautiful September day taking in all your favorite tourist attractions without dealing with the mid-summer crowds. And if you're a fan, you can always catch one of the Mariners' last home games.
10. October: Port Angeles
Port Townsend, WA 98368, USA
Dungeness Crab & Seafood Festival Facebook
The charming town of Port Angeles is delightful in any season. But going in October means you can catch the annual Dungeness Crab & Seafood Festival which is a paradise for seafood lovers. And even if you're not a fan, there's always plenty to see in town.
11. November: Olympia
Olympia, WA, USA
Fred Rhoades III/Flickr
Before winter weather really sets in, why not spend a day exploring our capital city of Olympia? From galleries and bookshops to natural attractions like Tumwater Falls (not to mention the beautiful Washington State Capitol Building, which you can tour), you'll find it all here. And make sure to come hungry -- Olympia is home to some seriously tasty oyster bars, Italian food, pub fare, and more. When searching for "getaway spots near me," Olympia always tops the list!
12. December: Leavenworth
Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA
Peachland Joe / Flickr
There's no better way to welcome the holiday season than by taking the family (or your special someone) to the Bavarian village of Leavenworth. And if you're worried about driving in the snow or not making it there and back in a day, you can leave the driving to someone else and take a day trip from Seattle with a company like Sound Excursions.

Washington is an incredible state, and we’re lucky to live here! These 12 day trips are proof that there is a wealth to see, do, and enjoy.

Have you been to any of these places? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences.

If you’re looking for a unique day trip option in Washington, check out the small town of Renton.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Lysa Allman-Baldwin | July 05, 2022

What is one of the best restaurants in Washington State?

Some of the best restaurants in Washington include:

  • The Herbfarm
  • Altura
  • The Dining Room at Salish Lodge & Spa

 

Ask any resident, and they will tell you that Washington is a foodie state! Nearly every big city and small town has a list of “best ofs” to their credit, so it really depends on what kind of food you enjoy. But to get you started there’s the Southfork Public House in Pullman which specializes in amazing traditional comfort food. Wild Sage Bistro in Spokane serves up the freshest seafood and high-quality meats. And in Seattle, there’s the famous Piroshky Piroshky, where the traditional Russian handcrafted pastries are made in over 20 different varieties.

I’m looking for things to do in Yakima.

One of the best day trips in Yakima is to drive along the Yakima River Canyon Scenic Byway. Extending between Yakima and Ellensburg, this 25-mile byway is spectacular. Along the way, you’ll find canyonlands, desert areas, hiking trails, basalt cliffs, and other natural outdoor areas. It is a popular drive by both Washington residents and tourists from out of state. 

How do I get to Whidbey Island?

Whidbey Island is one of the most exciting places to visit in Washington State. In fact, it ranks among one of the biggest tourist draws in the state. To get there, choose from several ferry options departing to and from the major cities around the area (Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, and the like). You can also drive on the Deception Pass Bridge which connects to State Highway 20. It is very picturesque and provides great views of the waterways that make Washington State so beautiful. However you get there, be sure to stay at least a day, as there is so much to see and do. Lots of folks make a weekend getaway out of their visit as well.

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