One great way to explore more of our beautiful state is to schedule weekend getaways. However, not everyone has an entire weekend to devote to local travel. In fact, if you can even take one full day now and then, you’re lucky.

Fortunately, you can experience a lot of Washington’s goodness in a single day. This one-day road trip in Washington will keep you busy from sunrise to sunset, and you’ll love every minute. Check out our interactive map to follow along on this one-day trip in Washington.

You'll only have around two hours of actual driving time, but it won't be difficult to make this an entire one-day trip in Washington.
Google Maps
It's worth it.
1. Start by waking up early and catching the sunrise at Meadowdale Beach Park in Edmonds.
6026 156th St SW, Edmonds, WA 98026, USA
Sandra R / Google
Meadowdale Beach Park was designed to be hike-in only, but the hiking time is quite minimal. If you go bright and early in the morning, you just might have the area to yourself.

Get a first-hand look at a gorgeous hike at this lovely park:

2. Even short hikes can really work up an appetite, so next, head to the Maltby Cafe.
Maltby Cafe / Google
This locally famous spot has won numerous awards for its hearty breakfasts.
Maybe you'll want a cinnamon roll for the meal itself, or perhaps you'll get one to snack on later. Either way, just get one.
8809 Maltby Rd, Snohomish, WA 98296, USA
Sheila/Google Maps
The cinnamon rolls here are world-famous, and they're absolutely delicious.

Take a closer look at the delicious food at Maltby Cafe:

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3. Next, drive up to Snohomish and do a little window (or actual) shopping.
Jasperdo / Flickr
Once a well-known spot for antiques, Snohomish's shopping scene has exploded in recent years.
Historic downtown Snohomish is undeniably charming, and we're not the only ones who think so.
Snohomish, WA, USA
Historic Downtown Snohomish Association / Facebook
In 2020, Snohomish was awarded one of the Top 10 Main Street Towns by Independent We Stand.
4. Keep cruising north toward Bellingham, but exit the highway and take Chuckanut Drive.
245 Chuckanut Dr, Bellingham, WA 98229, USA
Roy Patrick Tan / Flickr
If you have time, stop and take in the views from Larrabee State Park.

Here are some of the stunning views you'll enjoy at Larrabee State Park:

5. When you arrive in Bellingham, enjoy a sunset dinner at Lighthouse Bar & Grill.
Lighthouse Bar & Grill / Facebook
You won't find better sunset views than this.
Lighthouse Bar & Grill is located at Hotel Bellwether, and it's known for more than just its views.
1 Bellwether Way, Bellingham, WA 98225, USA
Lighthouse Bar & Grill / Facebook
The locally sourced seafood and steaks are extremely tasty.

Did you enjoy this one-day road trip in Washington? Do you know where you can see the best sunrises in Washington? Let us know in the comments. You may also enjoy these scenic road trips in Washington.

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More to Explore

Road Trip-Worthy Destinations in Washington

William Suphan | February 05, 2023

What are the most unique attractions in Washington?

The most unique attractions in Washington include:

  • Roozengaarde. This is a stunning garden full of a multitude of varieties of roses and it smells as wonderful as it looks.
  • Sequim Hot Air Balloon Rides. Hop aboard a hot-air balloon and see the gorgeous expanse of Hurricane Ridge in the Olympic National Forest. 
  • Meerkerk Rhododendron Gardens. Located in Greenbank, these gardens are awash with vibrant colors and are a gorgeous and serene place to soak in nature.
  • The Fremont Troll. Hiding under the Aurora Bridge in Seattle is a massive sculpture of a troll crushing a VW Beetle in its hand.

Discover more about the most unique attractions in Washington. 

What are the best bucket list attractions in Washington?

The best bucket list attractions in Washington include:

  • Dr. Jose Rizal Park in Seattle. This is a place that overlooks the city and is where many photographers take skyline photos.
  • Tolmie Peak at Mount Rainier. This is considered one of the best hikes in the state. It affords stunning views of Mount Rainier National Park.
  • Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park. This old-growth rainforest is one of the most gorgeous natural places in the country.
  • Duncan Garden in Spokane. This is an amazing garden that is reminiscent of exquisite French manicured gardens.

Find out more about the best bucket list attractions in Washington. 

What are the most incredible natural attractions in Washington?

The most incredible natural attractions in Washington include:

  • Palouse Falls State Park. This verdant park has rushing waterfalls that are well worth the hike to the overlook.
  • The Ape Caves. These caves were formed by a lava flow from Mount St. Helens over 2,000 years ago. The moss-covered lava is something special.
  • The Columbia River Gorge. This stunning natural area on the Oregon/Washington border is one of the most pristine views you’ll ever see.
  • The Enchantments. It takes a fairly strenuous hike to get here, but the views are so worth the effort.

Learn more about the most incredible natural attractions in Washington. 

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