When it comes to weather, we get a little of everything in Washington State. We don’t slow down when the autumn chill turns to winter frost. In fact, we revel in the beauty of the Evergreen State during the damp winter months. There is so much to do and see in Washington all year round and we’re not about to let a little rain or cold stop us from getting out and enjoying the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re looking for a wintertime hike, great local shopping, or a day of beachcombing, we’ve got a list of cool day trips in Washington State to keep you busy this winter. Just be sure to bundle up with your favorite winter essentials!

1. Palouse Falls State Park
Palouse Falls Road, Palouse Falls Rd, Washington, USA
Chris Devaraj, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
A popular day-use park in the spring and fall, Palouse Falls State Park is simply magical in the winter with a dusting of snow. Known as Washington’s "Little Grand Canyon" the 94-acre park offers idyllic views of the Palouse River Canyon and Palouse Falls. It's one of the best day trips from Seattle in winter.

See what it’s like to hike to these beautiful falls:

2. Franklin Falls
98045, North Bend, WA 98045, USA
Gabriele Giuseppini, CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
If you’re looking for a bit of a challenge, bundle up and head to Franklin Falls. Starting from the Snoqualmie trailhead, you’ll experience deep snow and majestic views. The trail leading to the falls can be extremely slippery in the winter so be sure to take proper precautions and check the weather report before you head out.
3. Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
100 Brown Farm Rd NE, Olympia, WA 98516, USA
Joe Mabel, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Olympia, Washington, is the home of Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually Nature Refuge, where you can connect with nature as you wander through diverse animal habitats. This is one of the best day trips from Olympia, WA. The mile-long Nisqually Estuary Boardwalk offers abundant opportunities to view wildlife in their natural environment.

Learn more about the efforts to preserve wildlife at this refuge:

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4. Bainbridge Vineyards
8989 NE Day Rd, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110, USA
Bainbridge Vineyards/Facebook
Take a scenic ferry ride to Bainbridge Island, and sample award-winning, organically sourced wines at Bainbridge Vineyards. Located five miles from the Bainbridge Island Ferry, the tasting room is open Thursday through Sunday, rain or shine. Kids and leashed-dog friendly.
5. The Hoh Rainforest
5629 Upper Hoh Rd, Forks, WA 98331, USA
Michael Gäbler, CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
On the west side of the Olympic National Forest, blanketed in lush green moss and ferns, you’ll find the Hoh Rainforest. Bring your wet weather gear and prepare for rain. It is, after all, a rainforest. But the spectacular hues winter brings to the forest offer an enchanting experience you won’t want to miss.

Follow along on a hike through this gorgeous rainforest:

6. Point No Point Lighthouse Park
9009 NE Point No Point Rd, Hansville, WA 98340, USA
Dennis Jarvis/Wikimedia Commons
For a day trip appropriate for all ages, head to Point No Point Lighthouse Park on the Kitsap Peninsula. Walk the mile-long shoreline and keep a lookout for seals frolicking in the water. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of a whale!
7. Point Ruston Public Market
5101 Yacht Club Rd, Tacoma, WA 98407, USA
Management/Point Ruston Public Market
Nestled among waterfront boutiques and cafes, you’ll find the Point Ruston Public Market. With over forty permanent vendors, fresh, local flowers and produce, a full-service butcher, and seasonal artisans, all under one roof, you won’t have to look far to find the perfect gift for someone special. Take home a beautiful, locally grown bouquet, or treat yourself to handmade bath products and candles. There is something for everyone at Point Ruston.

Rain, sun, sleet, or snow – Washingtonians don’t believe in the term “foul weather”. With a jacket for every occasion (but no umbrella), we’re prepared for the bountiful adventures our state has to offer. This winter, don’t let a little rain or cold weather keep you indoors all season. Get out and enjoy the beauty of the Evergreen State.  You’ll be glad you did!

What are your favorite day trips in Washington State? Have you visited any of the places on this list? We’d love to hear from you in the comments. For more adventures, get on the road and check out these road trips in Washington.

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Wonderful Destinations In Washington

Will Suphan | November 29, 2023

What are some of the top-rated man-made attractions in Washington?

The top-rated man-made attractions in Washington include:

  • Riverfront Park. Located in Spokane, this park was revitalized for the 1974 World’s Fair and contains several community attractions, such as a hand-carved carousel dating from 1909.
  • Fort Worden Historical State Park. This fort was part of the Triangle of Fire, a coastal defense center that houses several batteries and barracks.
  • Washington State Capitol Building. The rows of tulips and Roman-style architecture bring many visitors to this building located on the southern end of Puget Sound. 

Find out more about the top-rated man-made attractions in Washington. 

What are some of the most beautiful natural attractions in Washington?

The most beautiful natural attractions in Washington include:

  • Olympic National Park. Packed with dense old-growth forests, pristine beaches, and numerous hiking trails, this is arguably the top natural attraction in Washington. 
  • San Juan Islands. Just north of Puget Sound, this group of 174 islands is an extremely popular natural attraction for locals and tourists alike.
  • Mount Rainer National Park. This picturesque mountain is the most famous in the state and reaches 14,410 feet in elevation. 

learn more about the most beautiful natural attractions in Washington. 

What are the best small towns to visit in Washington?

The best small towns to visit in Washington include:

  • Sequim. The lavender fields are a top attraction in this small town located on the Olympic Peninsula. 
  • Leavenworth. This town started as a timber community and is now home to German architecture in its Bavarian Village. The views of the Cascade Mountains make this a picturesque location.
  • Gig Harbor. Located 12 miles from Tacoma, the famous historic waterfront is an extremely popular attraction.

Discover more about the best small towns to visit in Washington. 

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