Insanely Memorable Weekend Trips from Seattle (By a Local!)
Imagine the possibilities: National Parks, islands, mountains… All within weekend trips from Seattle.
Within hours, you can be a world away from the city — without actually traveling that far.
Whether you are planning a relaxing trip, romantic trip, solo trip, family trip, or even tossing together a spontaneous adventure on a Friday night, this guide is here to help you have an unforgettable time!
8 Great Weekend Trips from Seattle
To cover as many trip ideas as possible in a clear way, destination suggestions are loosely grouped by location.
Besides a couple of places that are heavily impacted (some closed entirely) by winter conditions, the following are wonderful to explore all year long!
National Parks
Washington rounds out the list of US States with the most national parks in 4th place. In total, its home to 3 mountainous national parks. They are relatively close together, hugging primarily the western side of the state (though also help create the west/east distinctions).
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North Cascades National Park
-Distance from Seattle: 117 miles
-Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours, 10 minutes (to park entrance)
-Nearest Towns: Sedro-Woolley to the west, Mazama & Winthrop to the east
-When to Visit: Late June – early October
Dubbed the American Alps, it’s ironic that North Cascades National Park is one of the least-visited national parks in the country. Indeed, it is often overshadowed by Mount Rainier and Olympic.
But, there is no less to explore. In fact, the park feature amazing turquoise lakes. So beautiful that you may not believe your eyes at the color, nature is not always so vibrant as the lakes of the North Cascades on a sunny summer day.
Or, if fall is more your style then the golden larches that line the highest peaks may pique your interest.
Bestie Tip: Love hiking? Then a fall larch hike in the North Cascades needs to be on your bucket list!
{RELATED POST: 50+ Can’t-Miss Hikes in Washington}
Mount Rainier National Park
-Distance from Seattle: 103 miles
-Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours, 20 minutes (to Paradise)
-Nearest Towns: Ashford, Enumclaw
-When to Visit: June – September (open year-round with restrictions)
No matter where you go in Washington, Mount Rainier never seems far away. The “Mother of Waters,” traditionally known as Tahoma or Tacoma, is an icon that is on our state license plate. And on clear day, she lingers on the horizon from the Emerald City.
While some hikers make the trip to Mount Rainier National Park a day visit, I guarantee that it is worth savoring your time there. Not only are there multiple areas of the park to explore, but conditions are constantly changing — so you never know what you’ll see.
Where to Stay
Beautiful Ashford VRBO rentals:
- Modern A-frame in Wooded Wonderland
- River Front Cabin with Mountain Views
Plus, sunrise, sunset, and the night sky are something special. So if you plan a weekend trip from Seattle here, then hopefully you can experience all of these for with your own eyes!
{RELATED POST: Best Hikes at Mount Rainier}
Olympic National Park
-Distance from Seattle: 138 miles
-Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes (to Port Angeles)
-Nearest Town: Port Angeles
-When to Visit: April-November
Famous for its diversity, Olympic National Park varies from our other two national parks in that it not only includes mountains but also ocean beaches and lush rainforests. In fact, the latter has it earned the recognition of being the most quiet spot in the United States. Specifically, the Hoh Rainforest.
Admittedly, if you’re looking to experience this peacefulness for yourself than an off-season visit would be wise.
Given the varying terrain encompassed within Olympic, it may not be a surprise that this is the largest national park in the state. I had to choose one park worthy of a weekend trip from Seattle (and not limited to a day trip), it would be this one.
Come say hi on Instagram for more Pacific Northwest travel inspo!
Where to Stay
Epic Port Angeles VRBO rentals:
- Nest Treehouse overlooking the water – sleeps 6
- Perch Treehouse overlooking the water – sleeps 3
Mountain Weekend Trips from Seattle
Snoqualmie Pass
-Distance from Seattle: 54 miles
-Estimated Travel Time: 50 mins (to The Summit at Snoqualmie)
-Nearest Town: North Bend, Snoqualmie
-When to Visit: Year-round
Hands down, the easiest mountain access from the city is Snoqualmie Pass. Thanks to I-90, road trippers can be at the summit in under an hour!
From there, you’ll be surrounded by abundant hiking trails, biking paths, and lakeside picnicking areas. As you probably know, this is a hub for winter activities like skiing, snow tubing, and snowshoeing.
And, if you’re really searching for a change a scenery then head all the way over Snoqualmie Pass to the eastern side of the state. Here, generally speaking, the weather tends to be sunnier and the skies clearer!
As always, be sure to be aware of recent, current, and predicted conditions on the pass. Check out WSDOT for the latest.
Where to Stay
- Suncadia Resort – Luxury mountainside resort will full amenities overlooking the Cle Elum River
- Timber Stilts – Midcentury modern home nestled in a forest and elevated on stilts!
Wenatchee
-Distance from Seattle: 145 miles
-Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours, 30 mins
-Nearest Town: Wenatchee
-When to Visit: Year-round
Or, if you don’t mind a little extra drive time then it’s worth considering heading further east to Wenatchee. This ever-growing town at the confluence of two great rivers is a hub for outdoor recreation – that not many people yet know about.
Bring your bike (mountain and road varieties) and your boots to explore all the trails surrounding the Apple Capitol of the World!
And, if the water is calling your name then consider activities like paddling, boating, and swimming (in the summer).
{RELATED POST: Nature Lover’s Guide to Wenatchee}
In comparison to nearby Leavenworth, Wenatchee is more spread-out, laidback, and non-touristy. Honestly, both are worth visiting as they offer different experiences. But, if you’ve already got your fare of German food and Bavarian-themed experiences, then opt to spend more time in Wenatchee.
From Wenatchee, the Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth is only 30 minutes away.
Island Weekend Trips from Seattle
Can you keep a secret? Of all the weekend trips from Seattle, my most favorites involve islands! In total, there’s over 10 islands in the Salish Sea surrounding the city. Isn’t that incredible?
Whidbey Island
-Distance from Seattle: 30-83 miles (depending on whether you access from the North or South)
-Estimated Travel Time: 1 hours, 20 mins
-Nearest Town: Oak Harbor, Coupeville, Langley
-When to Visit: Year-round
Known as the largest island in Washington, Whidbey Island is an excellent place for your first island adventure. Although I wouldn’t recommend attempting to see it all in one trip, you can pick and choose areas based on your tastes.
For example, choose to make lively Langley or historic Coupeville your basecamp. Opt to reach the island by ferry or bridge.
Where to Stay
- Relaxing Greenbank Cottage
- Oceanfront Maple Cove Hideaway
- Large Dog Friendly Home With View (sleeps 8!)
Bestie Tip: Whenever possible, I love to take different routes when I am going to and from Whidbey. That way, I get to experience both! However, typically the fastest route is via Deception Pass (unless you are lodging in the Southern part of the island).
{RELATED POST: 20 Exciting Things to do on Whidbey Island}
San Juan Islands
-Distance from Seattle: 110+ miles
-Estimated Travel Time: ~1 hour 30 mins drive, 45-60 mins in line for the ferry, & 45 min ferry ride
-Nearest Town: Eastsound, Friday Harbor
-When to Visit: Year-round
After you’ve explored Whidbey (and if you discover that islands are your thing, which I’m sure you will) then consider planning a trip to the San Juan Islands. Unlike the islands closer to Seattle, like Whidbey or Bainbridge, this cluster of islands in the Northwestern corner of the state are only accessible by boat aka ferry.
This way, you can truly embrace island time.
In Washington, we have the most extensive ferry system in the country. And for the Anacortes – San Juan Islands route you can board as a pedestrian, cyclist, or with your car. Without a doubt, my recommendation is to bring your vehicle. Getting around the islands is important, and they are larger than you may imagine!
For more information on riding the ferry, check out our San Juan Island guide.
Where to Stay
{RELATED POST: 25 Things to do on Orcas Island}
Fidalgo Island
-Distance from Seattle: 80 miles
-Estimated Travel Time: 1 hours, 20 mins
-Nearest Town: Anacortes
-Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Lastly, Fidalgo Island is a uniquely situated drive-to island (no ferry needed) and it is actually home to the ferry terminal to the San Juan Islands. So, it’s worth tacking on some time on either end of your San Juan Island trip to explore Fidalgo. Or, better yet, dedicate a whole weekend trip from Seattle to it!
Here, the island is largely known for the charming seaside town of Anacortes. A coffeehouse-bookstore-combo, plenty of brunch options, and delicious fudge are a few of my personal reasons to visit again and again. Plus, the natural beauty speaks for itself.
{RELATED POST: First Timer’s Guide to Fidalgo Island}
This post was all about the best weekend trips from Seattle.