Raymond Goldfield is a life-long New Jersey resident and an avid traveler and foodie who can be usually found on the Jersey Shore during the offseason or checking out the latest seasonal flavors at The Bent Spoon in Princeton. He has been working for Only In Your State for since early 2022, where he writes for New Jersey and Iowa and edits the Mid-Atlantic region. He can also be found writing about pop culture for GeekDad. When at home, he enjoys reading comic books and is part of The Rabbitt Stew podcast team. While New Jersey is his home base, he travels regularly and has visited Virginia, Florida, Maine, Minnesota, and Canada as well as all of NJ's border states. Ultimate travel goal? Visit all the best buffets in the United States.
Washington is an incredible state full of natural beauty, fine culture, and amazing food. From one end of the state to another, every mile on a road trip in Washington will hold some surprises. Few spots in the state are more awe-inspiring than its waterfalls – hiding in state parks, secluded glens, and even crowded city centers. And nothing makes it easier to appreciate natural beauty than some fine wine, so why not break up this waterfall excursion with stops at some of the state’s finest wineries and tasting rooms?
At 660 miles of road with many stops for sightseeing and sips along the way on this road trip itinerary, you’ll want to take your time and enjoy the journey. That means you’ll want to find some comfortable, reliable places to lay your head before the next day of travel. The route has many conveniently located Best Western hotels in Washington to provide a good night’s sleep. Now the only thing left to do is hit the road and explore the best waterfalls and wineries in Washington state!
Our multi-day Washington adventure begins in none other than Olympic National Park. Located on the Olympic Peninsula, this breathtaking waterfall is close to the Pacific Ocean and can be accessed by a short two-mile hike through Olympic National Park. Ninety feet tall and offering a stunning view, it's a popular picnic spot in the area. You'll want to bring your camera for this stop!
How do you know Harbinger Winery is worth a stop? Many of the grapes used to make the wine here are rare varieties you might never have seen outside of Washington. Tastings are held inside the old-fashioned barrel room and accompanied by chocolate and cheese if you wish, making it one of the best examples of a classic winery atmosphere in Washington. There's even a wine club if you want to make regular stops here.
Tumwater Falls is a man-made waterfall in a charming city park, filled with well-maintained trails to hike. During the early fall, it becomes a special attraction during the salmon migration - you'll see hundreds of fish leaping their way up a specially built fish ladder.
Tumwater Falls is close to Tacoma, which is the perfect place to lay your head at Best Western Plus Tacoma Hotel before you head off on the next part of your adventure.
The oldest winery in Washington opened its doors not long after Prohibition ended, and that old-school feel infuses everything they do. To ensure a purity of flavor, they have separate wineries on-site for white and red wines, and their selection is massive. The large facility is open for tours and tastings, and the gift shop is a must-stop before you leave.
The Greater Seattle area is full of top-notch hotels where you can stay before continuing your trip, so consider checking into the Best Western Alderwood or the Best Western Sky Valley Inn, both only a short drive away!
It really wouldn't be a waterfalls-and-wineries trip in Washington without a visit to Snoqualmie Falls. Located less than an hour from Seattle, this 270-foot-waterfall was made famous when it appeared in the credits of the TV thriller Twin Peaks, and it's surrounded by a short trail and a lodge for tourists.
You're headed into the beautiful woods and forests of Washington for your next stop, far away from the city. Franklin Falls is located off the beaten path in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The three-tiered waterfall is 135 feet tall and can be seen easily from a short and accessible hike perfect for beginners.
You've got a long drive ahead, so why not stop about halfway at the Best Western Chieftain Inn, a peaceful retreat greeting travelers in the small town of Wenatchee.
7. Vin du Lac Winery & Bistro
Vin Du Lac Winery, 105 WA-150, Chelan, WA 98816, USA
Against the beautiful backdrop of Lake Chelan, this small-batch winery has gained a reputation among wine lovers and foodies for its selection and its seasonal bistro menu. The tasting only costs a small fee - which is taken out of the cost of purchasing a bottle of wine, making it one of the best buys out there.
There are bigger waterfalls in Washington than Palouse Falls, but it's unlikely any pack more history into their waters. This waterfall has been flowing since the Ice Age and is contained within one of the state's most impressive gorges. Located in Palouse Falls State Park in southeast Washington, it's a popular spot for artists.
If you need a rest before heading on to your final destination city, consider heading north to Ritzville and staying at the Best Western Bronco Inn, which will take you in the right direction and leave you refreshed for one more day of wineries and waterfalls.
9. Barrister Winery
Barrister Winery, 1213 West Railroad Avenue, Spokane, WA 99201, USA
Located in an old-fashioned warehouse, Barrister Winery has become a popular spot for events including weddings and birthdays. Their tasting room is open daily, and the Spokane-based winery hosts live music to accompany their bottles regularly.
You don't even have to leave the city to find your final waterfall, and it might be the best urban waterfall in the country. Spokane Falls can be seen either via a series of pedestrian bridges or a SkyRide over the city, and the impressive spillways are one of the city's top attractions.
Are you looking forward to this waterfalls and wineries road trip in Washington? Let us know if you’re planning to follow our itinerary or if you have some stops of your own planned in the comments section! Don’t forget to find the closest Best Western property near you before you hit the road!