7 Low-Key Day Trip Destinations In Washington That Will Fuel Your Wanderlust
By Jessica Wick|Published March 16, 2021
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Jessica Wick
Author
Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.
Whether you’ve been in full-on quarantine for the last year or you’re just developing an unhealthy level of cabin fever, it’s lovely to see both spring and a grand re-opening on Washington’s horizons. And until we’re able to travel internationally at will again, it’s wonderful to live in such a beautiful state that’s always worth exploring.
Even if you only have one full day to get away, you can see some of the Evergreen State’s finest gems and still make it home to sleep in your own bed at night. And each of the destinations on this list just might inspire you to travel even further, once current conditions allow.
We're perpetually smitten with Washington's Victorian village. And if you've ever visited yourself, it's likely that you are as well. Few places in Washington can compare to this history-filled city, and all it will take is one day of taking in the views and strolling the streets for you to feel refreshed and rejuvenated.
Bainbridge Island is a mere 35 minute ferry ride from Seattle, but it feels like you're entering another world. Bainbridge is quiet, but it has everything you'll need for a fantastic day -- shops, parks, restaurants, beer and wine tasting, and stunning scenery.
We're well aware that Leavenworth is not actually a Bavarian village. In fact, it was a logging and railroad town until the 1960s, when some geniuses had the idea to create a Bavarian theme to attract tourists. It worked, and now Leavenworth is one of our most beloved little cities. And it will certainly inspire you to buy a ticket to Germany when you're able.
Humbling, awe-inspiring, and downright breathtaking, Mount Rainier is Washington's most majestic wonder. Parts of the park remain cold and snowy well into June, but there are plenty of paths ready to explore by early spring. Spending even one day here just might inspire you to do more hiking this year and beyond.
Of course, this will only be a potential day trip if you live in Eastern or Central Washington. But Grand Coulee Dam is definitely worth visiting. Constructed between 1933 and 1942, this dam is so impressive that it inspired several Woody Guthrie songs.
If you've been to Poulsbo, you probably know that it's referred to as Little Norway. But what you might not know is that Norwegian was the only language to be spoken here until World War II and the city (usually) holds an annual Viking Fest to celebrate its heritage.
There's a lot to love about Gig Harbor. This ridiculously charming little city is a short drive from Tacoma, and it offers stunning views of Mount Rainier, a pleasant waterfront, and attractions like the Heritage Distilling Company. But it's the Gig Harbor Gondola that will conjure up your wanderlust -- just try being whisked around in an authentic Italian gondola without being inspired to visit Venice.
When you’re done exploring Washington for a while, where will your next flight be?
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