Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary: From the Pacific to the Redwoods!

Looking for the best California Travel Guide? Read our Ultimate 10 Day California Road Trip Itinerary for must-visit places to see in California including San Francisco, Los Angeles, things to do along the Pacific Coast Highway and Big Sur, San Deigo, the Californian desert – Joshua Tree National Park and Death Valley, the Sierra Nevada mountain ranges, Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park and the Northern coast of California

22 Best Things to do in California

Planning a visit to California? Looking for bucket list attractions in the Golden State? From art and culture to historic buildings and from sandy beaches to snow capped mountain ranges, explore the best things to do in California in our epic guide. Also read our post on the Best Places to Visit on the West Coast. 

California. Its very name invokes thrilling stories of explorers, pioneers, and innovators. From the expedition ships that ventured near its coasts to the prospectors that reached the state via dangerous mountain roads, the state has attracted adventurous souls since the earliest times. Even today it continues to attract the brightest and the hard-working to seek fortune in Silicon Valley. 

California is just that kind of place. When most people think of the Pacific Coast or the West Coast of the USA, they think of the Golden State of California. This state has a rich history. It was here that the first European settlement on the West coast was established in Old Town San Diego. And it was here that the gold was discovered in 1848 that led to the mass migration and settlements in the Wild West. 

“When California was wild, it was the floweriest part of the continent.”
– John Muir

California has a variety of attractions from the sunshine beaches of Southern California to the majestic coastal redwoods of Northern California. The central coast is rugged while the Sierra Nevada is home to the beautiful Yosemite National Park. We love California for a couple of reasons: it’s fantastic cities, beautiful natural scenery, and its diversity. 

Best Things to do in California

There are a variety of things to do and places to visit in California. The state is very big and diverse and has something for every type of traveler. Whether you love beaches or the mountains, whether you like the sun or the snow, whether you are a city person or love the rugged outdoors, California has the perfect place for you. Here are some of the best places to visit in the great state of California. 

Bike across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco

San Francisco is the ultimate Californian getaway and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge it’s #1 tourist attraction. Visitors love to see the bridge from Crissy Fields and walk across it to the Golden Gate Vista Point. They can also drive or bike across it for a unique experience. San Francisco also has many other things to do apart from the bridge. The Palace of Fine Arts is a beautiful building with Greek architecture while the Fisherman’s Wharf is a lively waterfront area. Other San Francisco attractions include a ride on the cable cars, the biggest Chinatown in the country, and the island of Alcatraz. San Francisco’s Mission District has amazing murals and is home to Mission Dolores, the oldest building in the city. 

Also Read: Portland to San Francisco Road Trip Itinerary

Fall in love with the coast at Big Sur

Along California’s Central Coast, lies the region of Big Sur. It is roughly 90 miles long and extends roughly from Point Lobos to San Simeon. The coastline here is mostly public land, as a result, it is unspoiled and remains in its natural form. The beauty is preserved via many state parks, scenic areas, and national forests. Big Sur has beautiful viewpoints, panoramas along the coast, small coastal communities, pristine beaches and coves, and lots of wildlife. You will also find an occasional grove of the coastal redwoods in Big Sur. The region is best explored on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip. Some of the most popular and scenic attractions in Big Sur include McWay Falls, Bixby Creek Bridge, Point Sur Lighthouse, Pfeiffer Beach, and Lime Kiln State Park. 

See Yosemite through the eyes of Ansel Adams

California is home to the stunning Yosemite National Park. This is one of the most popular national parks in the country. The Yosemite Valley is the perfect base for exploring the national park. In the Yosemite Valley, you will find the Visitor Center, lodges, and tours to explore the highlights like Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and El Capitan. The scenic Tioga Pass Road and Glacier Point Road have viewpoints from where you can see the Yosemite Valley from above. Yosemite also has many groves of the giant Sequoia trees. The Mariposa Grove is especially popular with tourists. Visit the Ansel Adams gallery near the national park to see black and white photographs of the stunning landscape.

Also Read: Best Road Trips in California

Worship Hollywood in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is home to Hollywood and one of the best places to visit in California for movie buffs. Visitors can enjoy movie sets and thrilling rides at Universal Studios. Other movie studios like Warner Bros Studios, Sony, etc also offer behind the scenes tour of their movie studios. Hollywood Blvd is an essential visit while in the city. Here you can see movie stars on the sidewalk and the Chinese Oriental Theatre and the Kodak Theatre which hosts the Oscars. Visit the comedy clubs on Sunset Strip to watch your favorite actors performing live. Non-movie attractions in Los Angeles include museums like LACMA and the Broad, Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park, the Getty Center, and Santa Monica Pier. 

Go skiing or biking at Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is California’s most popular outdoor playground. The lake is actually situated on the border of California and Nevada and lies in both states. Located in the Sierra Nevada mountain ranges, Lake Tahoe is a year-round travel destination. During summer, visitors can hike, bike, enjoy the water activities on the lake. During the winter, Lake Tahoe is popular for skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and just good old snow fun. The best way to enjoy Lake Tahoe’s scenery is to drive the loop road which takes about half a day at a leisurely pace. Places to visit near Lake Tahoe include Emerald Bay State Park and Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park.  The views from Emerald Bay are particularly striking and the park also contains a beautiful Nordic Castle named Vikingsholm. 

Also Read: 24 Best Places to Visit in California in winter

Dig the historic vibe of San Diego

San Diego on California’s Pacific Coast is known for its beaches, year-round sunshine, and beautiful parks. There are many things to do in the city, most at the urban Balboa Park. Here you will find museums in beautiful Spanish colonial-style mansions, landscaped gardens including the Japanese Garden, and beautiful walking trails. The Japanese Garden has beautiful cherry blossom trees and is one of the best places to spot these beauties in SoCal. Another popular attraction is the Old Town. This sea is where the most historic buildings in San Diego are located. The Gaslamp Quarter is also worth a visit. It has amazing dining and nightlife. The Embarcadero or the Waterfront is a great place to shop for souvenirs, people watch and go on a whale watching tour. 

Related: 22 Best Things to do in San Diego

Be a kid for the day at Disneyland

Located in Anaheim, California – close to Los Angeles – you will find the two Disney parks of Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. Both are great to visit for Disney fans but younger kids especially love Disneyland. In ToonTown, they get to meet all their favorite characters including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy. Another great place to visit is the Fantasyland where they can see storybook characters come to life and meet the Disney princesses. Other areas like Main Street USA, Frontier land, etc also have plenty of attractions for visitors of all ages. At Disney California Adventure, kids can visit the Disney Pixar Pier and ride amazing movie-themed rides including the Incredicoaster. 

Have a luxury vacation in Palm Springs

The resort city of Palm Springs is located in California’s Sonoran desert and is one of the popular weekend getaways from Los Angeles. Palm Springs has many luxurious hotels, shopping, and cultural attractions. The city has a beautiful mid-century modern architecture which you can see on a guided tour. Another thing that Palm Springs is famous for is quirky, colorful doors! You can also see the doors on a guided tour. The city is also known for its museums including the Palm Springs Museum of Art. Downtown Palm Springs has a Walk of Fame, many candy, fudge, and date shake stores and is a great place to take a stroll. The area surrounding Palm Springs is known as Coachella Valley and it has many hiking trails through canyons and around Oasis and is perfect for those who love being outdoors. The trails will take you through desert lands and narrow canyons.

Also Read: Palm Springs Babymoon Guide

See the aquarium in Monterey

Located along the central California coast just a few hours south of San Francisco, Monterey is the ultimate day trip or weekend getaway for the Bay area. Monterey is the perfect coastal getaway. One of the most popular attractions in the city is the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Here, visitors can see thousands of marine plants and animal species in their natural environment. You can spot stingrays, whales, sharks, and jellyfish at the aquarium. Another popular attraction is Cannery Row. It was once home to Central California’s sardine-packing industry and now has been converted into a tourist hub that houses restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and bars. Visitors can go for whale watching tours in Monterey. 

Drive the scenic road to Death Valley

Death Valley National Park is closer to Las Vegas than most Californian cities and is usually seen on a road trip from Las Vegas. Death Valley is one of the hottest, lowest, and driest places in the world. The best time to visit Death Valley is during the cooler winter months. On a visit to the park, visitors can see the salt flats at Badwater Basin and the stunning colors on the mountainside at Artist’s Palette on Artist’s Drive. Death Valley also has great hiking, historical structures like Scotty’s Castle, and photogenic panoramas of the area from overlooks like Dante’s View and the Zabriskie Point. The national park was a prime location for mining Borax in early times and visitors can see how the borax was transported using twenty mule wagons at Harmony Borax Works Trail. 

See the California State Capitol in Sacramento

The city of Sacramento is the capital of California. This is a diverse city and is often known for its hipster culture, in recent times. In spite of that, the city remains one of the most underrated places to visit in the country. Old Town Sacramento, situated on the Sacramento River, is historic and dates back to the California Gold Rush. It is amazing to explore and see the beautiful wooden sidewalks, historic architecture, cobblestone streets, as well as many museums. Also, a must-visit is the California State Capitol building and its grounds. Visitors can see the Capitol on a free guided tour. The State Library and many other historic buildings are also located near the State Capitol and beautiful to see. Train lovers should visit the California State Railroad Museum. This is one of the best railroad museums in the world and visitors can see restored vintage cars and engines. 

See the General Sherman Tree at Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park

Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park are actually two geographically different park areas that are administered as a single unit. They are located adjacent to each other in the Sierra Nevada mountain ranges. Both the national parks are home to the giant sequoia trees. Kings Canyon National Park is also known for its canyon hikes, white water rapids, and the crystal clear water of the Kings River. Sequoia National Park is most famous for its General Sherman Tree, which at 275 feet tall and 103 feet wide is the largest tree in the world by volume. It is fascinating to see the tree up close and marvel at its grandeur. Activities in the parks include scenic drives, hiking to see the Sequoia tree groves, and white water rafting in the Kings River. 

Enjoy a romantic stroll on the coastal bluffs in Mendocino

Mendocino, located on the Pacific Coast Highway in Northern California, is a very charming and romantic city. It is popular for its quaint Victorian architecture and scenic coastal bluffs. Visitors can learn more about Mendocino’s history at the Kelley House Museum. The nature is really spectacular here. Mendocino is located smack dab in the middle of three state parks: Mendocino Headlands State Park, Russian Gulch State Park, and Van Damme State Park. Each of the parks provides access to the rugged coastline, pretty beaches, hiking trails, and camping locales. Russian Gulch State Park is known for its Russian Gulch bridge that spans the river while the Van Damme State Park is famous for its pygmy forest which is home to stunted trees. Point Cabrillo Lighthouse is also located close to Mendocino and is beautiful to visit and photograph. 

Drive down the Avenue of the Giants

The Avenue of Giants is a scenic byway in Humboldt Redwood State Park in Northern California. To access the highway, take the turn from Highway 101 near Stafford. The scenic Byway is 31 miles long and passes through some of the tallest redwood trees on the West coast. The trees here grow so close and so tall, that sunlight rarely reaches the byway. It is often shrouded in fog and mist that rolls inwards from the coast and looks enchanting and magical. Apart from the amazing drive through trees that reach up towards the sky, the Avenue of Giants has many attractions. Visitors can do an auto tour of the drive; there are 8 interesting, designated stops with loads of information. Visitors can go hiking along the byway to see the biggest groves. They can visit the One Log House and drive through the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree.  

Photograph the unique Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the world. The park is located over two desert systems: the Mojave desert and the Colorado desert. The park is named after the unique, scraggly Joshua Tree which grows profusely in the Mojave desert section of the park. Inside Joshua Tree, you will find unique landscapes of bare rock formations, desert washes, and unique trees and cacti like the Joshua Tree, Ocotillo, and Cholla cactus. Things to do inside Joshua Tree National Park include climbing over the boulders, hiking to the park’s oasis, spotting cacti flowers in the spring, and seeing the vista from Keys View. Visitors can also see the San Andreas faultline from the national park. The park looks beautiful in spring when the cacti are blooming and wildflowers are sprinkled throughout the desert landscape. Read our post on One Day in Joshua Tree for more information. 

See the unique tufas at Mono Lake

Mono Lake is a very unique natural wonder in California’s eastern Sierra mountain ranges. This 65 square miles big saline lake was formed hundreds of thousands of years ago and is known for its fascinating geological formations known as the tufas. Tufas are towering limestone formations formed due to the deposition of limestone on the lake bed. The lake looks fascinating and eerily beautiful, especially at sunrise or sunset, due to the many tufas dotting its landscape. The lake is very popular for bird watching as hundreds of resident birds nest on its shores while migratory birds flock to the water source on their journey. Other activities to do at Mono Lake include photography, hiking, visiting the Mono Lake Visitor Center, and floating/swimming in its waters at Navy Beach.  

Take a day trip to Catalina Island

Santa Catalina Island is one of California’s Channel Islands and is not a part of the national park. It is known for its resorts and palm-lined beaches. Located south of Los Angeles, off the Pacific coast, the island makes a perfect day trip from the city. The two main destinations on the island include the city of Avalon and the town of Two Harbors. Santa Catalina Island is popular for its luxurious lifestyle, nightlife, and upscale shopping. During the day, visitors can check out museums, play golf, or take a stroll through the Botanic Gardens. The island also has many restaurants and eateries and is one of the most popular destinations in California for vacationing couples and families. There are also many outdoor attractions on Catalina Island. The island is famous for snorkeling, diving, and biking. It is also a popular spot to watch wildlife. 

Take Instagram worthy photos in Alabama Hills

Alabama Hills is a unique landscape located along Route 395 in Eastern California. The Alabama Hills are unique rock formations on the slopes of the Sierra Nevadas. This unique landscape is located near Lone Pine / Mt. Whitney. The hills are a famous filming locale and featured in movies such as Django Unchained and Gladiator. In fact, one of the main roads in Alabama Hills is called the Movie Road. Visitors can also camp anywhere in Alabama Hills as the land is free for public use. There are many hiking trails and arches located in the Alabama Hills including Mobius Arch and Boot Arch. Another unique attraction in this fascinating landscape is the painted rock known as the Face of Alabama Hills. 

Visit the windiest place in North America at Point Reyes

Point Reyes National Seashore has one of the most rugged coastlines in Northern California. Located about 30 miles to the north of San Francisco, it is a popular destination on the Pacific Coast Highway road trip along the West Coast. Point Reyes is the windiest place on the continent. A highlight of the natural area is the Point Reyes Lighthouse, built-in 1870. This scenic lighthouse can be accessed by climbing down a series of steps to the cape. Point Reyes also has amazing wildlife and is a great place to watch for migrating whales. Other animals and marine life that can be frequently spotted include sea lions, otters, elks, deer, eagles, and hawks. Point Reyes also has many hiking trails and picnic areas. It makes a great day trip from San Francisco. 

Watch an amazing sunset at Pigeon Point Lighthouse

Pigeon Point Lighthouse located in Pescadero, south of Half Moon Bay, is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country. This scenic lighthouse enjoys a beautiful location on a coastal bluff and looks stunning at sunset when the red-orange sky looks like a painting behind the whitewashed lighthouse. In spring, the area surrounding the lighthouse is blooming with wildflowers and looks as well as smells even more beautiful. The historic lighthouse was built in 1871 and at 115 feet tall is the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast of the USA. Visitors can learn more about the lighthouse on a guided tour. The area around is protected by the Pigeon Point Lighthouse State Historic Park and has a sandy beach, picnic areas, tide pools, plus a boardwalk trail with a viewing area from where you can watch marine life and sea birds. 

Go skiing in the shadow of Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta is an active stratovolcano located in the Cascade mountain ranges of northern California. The charming town of Mount Shasta is located on the slopes of the volcano. Mount Shasta has amazing outdoor activities year-round. Along with the peak of Mount Shasta, there are many mountain lakes and waterfall hikes surrounding the city. Visitors can go hiking, camping, biking around the city in summer. Lake Siskiyou is a beautiful lake that has many trails, the beautiful Wagon Creek Bridge, and is a paradise for fishing, boating, and kayaking. Mount Shasta City is also a popular winter destination for snowbirds. Visitors can stay at the ski resorts and learn skiing. Other snow activities include snow tubing, sledding, and snowshoeing.  

Go on a cruise to the Channel Islands National Park

Channel Islands National Park located off the shores of California is one of the least visited national parks in the country. The park consists of 5 of the 8 Channel Islands and is an excellent place to watch the diverse marine life. The Channel Islands can be easily accessed from a boat cruise from Ventura. The Channel Islands Visitor Center is also located in Ventura and is a great place to visit to learn more about the islands. Each of the islands has a different attraction. Anacapa Island is famous for the iconic view from Inspiration Point and its historic lighthouse. Santa Cruz Island is famous for its sea caves while Santa Barbara Island is excellent for birding. The Channel Islands is also a great place for scuba diving among the sea kelps.

We hope you liked our post on the best things to do in California. The state has many other attractions such as the sea coves at La Jolla, the beautiful glass beach at Fort Bragg, and the lava tubes at Lassen Volcanic National Park. Did we miss out on any hidden gems in California? Let us know in the comments!

12 Best Road Trips in California to add to your bucket list

Are you looking for the best road trips in California? California is full of amazing routes from the Pacific Coast Highway through Big Sur and the Northern California Coast Road to Tioga Pass in Yosemite and Volcanic National Scenic Byway. Check out these scenic, memorable drives in California that best explore the natural attractions of the golden state.

21 Amazing Things to do in Washington State

tulip fields in Skagit Valle, Washington

Washington State is a jewel of the Pacific Northwest.

There are a number of scenic places to visit and unique things to do in Washington State for visitors.

It is home to amazing cities such as Seattle, Tacoma, Bellevue, and Spokane – all must see places in Washington state!

The state is also a powerhouse for the information technology industry.

Multi-million dollar corporations such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Expedia are based in the state.

It is also the birthplace of Starbucks in Pike Place Market and Boeing.

Washington is famous for its coffee houses and delicious seafood-based cuisine. 

Fun Fact – Washington State is named after US President George Washington.

Washington also has an incredible natural beauty which is reflected in its slogan of the Evergreen State.

The many national parks in Washington State are amongst top things to visit in America.

Millions of tourists travel here every year for its natural attractions including the Olympic National Park, Mt Rainier national park, urban Lake Washington, and North Cascades National Park.

Nature lovers and outdoor explorers can enjoy hiking in the emerald green Hoh Rain forest on the Olympic peninsula – a must do Washington state – and see the spectacular wildflowers in bloom at Paradise in Mount Rainier National Park.

Other attractions such as vineyards, apple orchards, and rural communities also attract those looking to venture off the beaten path.

Also Read: Washington Road Trip Itinerary

But Washington is much more than it’s cities or mountains or other land-based attractions.

The coastline, islands, and marine life of the state also attract many visitors.

You would be surprised to know that there are 400 archipelagos and islands in Washington State!

Not all of them are inhabited – but those that are have plenty of attractions for visitors.

The most famous are probably the San Juan Islands in Puget Sound.

But other popular islands including Bainbridge Island, Blake Island, Orcas island, and Whidbey Island are also popular attractions. 

Also Read: Best places to visit on the West Coast of the USA

Best Things to do in Washington State

There are many interesting and unique things to do in Washington state to keep all types of visitors happy.

Art and culture lovers can see the stunning blown glass artwork at Chihuly Garden and Glass while movie buffs will love the props and costumes at the Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle.

Outdoor families can enjoy hiking, biking, roadside attraction, and scenic drives in the snow-capped mountains of the Cascade ranges.

Foodies can eat a variety of cuisines, shop for fresh produce at the local farmer’s markets, and enjoy the fresh catch of the day at seafood restaurants.

Here are some of the best places to visit and cool things to do in Washington:

Enjoy the urban attractions of Seattle

Seattle is one of the top cities to visit in the country and naturally, one of cool places to go in Washington.

It makes the perfect weekend getaway or a city break for culture and coffee lovers.

Spend a day visiting Seattle’s most iconic attraction, the Space Needle.

Located within the Seattle Center, the Space Needle was built for the 1962 World’s Fair.

Since then, the building has become one of top attractions Washington state and attracted millions of visitors to its observation deck every year.

From here, you can get stunning views of the skyline, Puget Sound, and Mount Rainier. 

The Seattle Center has many other attractions including the Chihuly Garden and Glass, Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), and the International Fountain which shoots up water in the sky.

At the Chihuly Garden and Glass, you can see stunning blown glass creations of the artist, Dale Chihuly. This is one of the best museums in Washington State.

Waterfront Park, Seattle, Washington
Waterfront Park, Seattle, Washington

At MoPOP, you can see props, costumes, and exhibits from popular movies in the sci-fi, fantasy, & horror genres. 

Downtown Seattle has many other attractions include the spooky Seattle Underground and the unique building of the Seattle Public Library.

The waterfront and Pike Place Market are great for taking a stroll, shopping, and eating a variety of cuisines.

See the fishermen throw fish at Pike Place – one of most fun things to do in Washington state – and take a photo with the famous bronze sculpture of Rachel, the Piggy Bank in the market.

Read our post on the Best Things to do in Seattle for more information on attractions such as Capitol Hill, Children’s Museum, and the Museum of Flight. 

Explore the Hoh Rainforest & Olympic Peninsula

Washington Coast which comprises of the Olympic Peninsula is one of the most beautiful regions in the country.

It lies opposite Seattle on the Puget Sound.

The Olympic Peninsula is definitely amongst cool places in Washington.

It has plenty of attractions including beautiful landscapes, giant douglas fir and sitka spruce trees, and coastal communities.

You will also have amazing wildlife and marine life encounters including deer, elk, bear, eagles, dolphins, whales, sea otters, seals, sea lions, etc.

You can explore tide pools, camp on the beach, enjoy crabbing and clamming, and go hiking in the Olympic mountain ranges.

The best way to explore the Olympic peninsula is via a road trip along Highway 101. 

Olympic National Park located on the peninsula is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and protects many diverse ecosystems.

One of the best places to see in Washington state within the Olympic National Park is Hurricane Ridge.

Located about 17 miles from Port Angeles, this side of the park has beautiful mountain views and incredible hikes crossing subalpine lakes and valleys.

The easy half-mile Big Meadow Trail is a great introduction to the park.

The national park also has dramatic beaches like Ruby Beach and Shi Shi Beach, turquoise glacial lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs and is the ultimate outdoor destination. 

Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park, Washington
Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park, Washington

The Hoh Rainforest, part of the Olympic National Park, is one of the largest temperate rain forests in the country and gets over 140 inches of rain every year.

This rainforest is a magical place where dense fog rolls through moss-covered trees and the sun rays barely penetrate through the evergreen rainforests.

Venture on a hiking trail in the rainforest among ferns, lichens, mosses, and old-growth trees – our favorite tourist activity!

Visitors can go on trails surrounded by cedars, fir, and spruce trees. One of the most visited trails in the rainforest is the 1.1 miles long Hall of Mosses hiking trail.

This heavily hiked trail is very photogenic, accessible, and perfect for all age groups. 

Visit the North Cascades National Park Complex

The North Cascades National Park Complex has some of the most untouched and unspoiled places in the United States.

The park complex is actually home to three different units: the snow-covered North Cascade mountain ranges bounded by the national park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area, and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area.

The North Cascade mountains are also called the American Alps due to their snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and wildflower-filled meadows.

The best time to visit the park attractions is from July to September when the snow melts and roads are open. 

Hiking in the North Cascades park complex is one of the best ways to explore the park.

Most hiking trails have gorgeous mountain views and lots of wildlife seeing opportunities.

Some of the popular trails are the short Ladder Creek Falls, the accessible Sterling Munro Trail, and the 7 mile long strenuous Cascade Pass trail.

Also must visit is the North Cascades Visitor Center.

It has plenty of exhibits and educational opportunities for the kids plus is a good place to grab a map, souvenirs, etc. 

The drive along the North Cascades Scenic Byway is one of the most scenic drives in the state.

The route is 140 mile long and will take you along sharp mountain peaks, frozen glaciers, roadside waterfalls, the charming Skagit Valley tulip fields, as well as some of most beautiful places in Washington state.

Some of the highlights of the drive include Washington Pass Overlook, the turquoise shimmering Ross Lake, Diablo Lake, Diablo dam overlook, and the charming wild west mining town of Winthrop. 

Its splendid scenery make the Cascade ranges a must see Washington state attraction.

Diable Lake in Cascades National Park, Washington
Diablo Lake in Cascades National Park, Washington

Enjoy the solitude at Stehekin

For the ultimate outdoor adventure, visit Stehekin in the North Cascade Mountains.

The town of Stehekin, Washington is a small community that sits in the mountains with views of Lake Chelan.

This beautiful place has a population of about 200 people and only one road leading in or out.

The Stehekin Lodge is only accessible by air or boat, making it enticing for those looking to escape their busy lives.

The quiet and secluded atmosphere gives tourists an opportunity to escape from the typical hustle and bustle found in many other places.

Visitors can enjoy the secluded location of Stehekin among mountain peaks and lush forests.

Indulge in fishing, hiking, kayaking or simply take in the scenery on foot at this top Washington state things to do locale.

Spend a day on the water in Puget Sound

Puget Sound is an inlet of the Pacific Ocean in the Pacific Northwest. The Sound consists of many waterways, basins, and islands in the northwestern corner of Washington.

Seattle is located on one side of the sound while the Olympic peninsula consisting of the Olympic National Park is located on the other side.

Other cities in the region include Tacoma and Bellingham.

There are also many rural communities in the region that thrive on farming and provide pick your own produce type of attractions to tourists. 

A special attraction of the sound is its islands.

The most popular islands include the San Juan Islands, Bainbridge Island, Blake Island, and Whidbey Island.

Most of the major islands are connected by the Washington State ferries and are easy to access.

Other small islands can be accessed by sea kayaks or chartering private boats. 

Puget Sound has a stunning diversity of wildlife including harbor seals, orcas, salmon species, and many sea birds.

This abundant wildlife attracts many tourists to the islands and the sound every year, making it one of best places in Washington state.

You can go whale watching and see the migrating orcas and other species.

The most popular whale watching cruises leave from the Seattle waterfront.

Along with tourists, photographers and naturalists exploring Washington state also visit the sound for its wildlife.

Olympic Mountains as seen From Puget Sound in Bremerton Washington
Olympic Mountains as seen From Puget Sound in Bremerton Washington

Experience rural life on San Juan Island

San Juan Island is the second largest of the islands in Puget Sound.

The island is one of fun places to go in Washington for whale watching.

The whale watching cruises and tours leave from Friday Harbor marina on San Juan island.

Other outdoor activities include hiking, biking, and kayaking.

On the island, you will be treated to pastoral sights of alpacas, cows, and sheep grazing around.

The island also has many scenic byways that go past attractions such as farms, rugged coastlines, and lighthouses such as the Cattle Point Lighthouse.

One of the most popular places to visit on the island is the Lime Kiln Point State Park. The park has stunning coastal views, good hiking trails, and even a lighthouse. 

The island also has many attractions for city dwellers and urban tourists.

Historic Friday Harbor is a beautiful seaport town on the island. It has many art galleries, boutiques, antique stores as well as book stores.

The island’s museums are worth a visit.

At the Whale Museum, You can see skeletons of orcas and humpbacks and efforts going on to protect marine life.

At the San Juan Islands Museum of Art, you can explore local artists and their creations.

Learn all about the island’s history at the San Juan Historical Museum. 

The San Juan Islands are a delight for food lovers.

There are many charming cafes, eateries, and seafood restaurants in Friday Harbor.

The salmon dishes are especially delicious.

Other dining experiences also abound on the island.

You can dine at farm to table restaurants and go wine tasting at the local wineries.

Many breweries and distilleries are also located on the island.

You can taste amazing craft beers, very best ciders, and unique flavored spirits. 

Historic English Camp on San Juan Island
Historic English Camp on San Juan Island

Photograph the beautiful Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier National Park is a highlight of Washington.

The towering Mount Rainier forms the beautiful backdrop for the Seattle skyline and is a must-visit.

Two of the most popular areas of the National Park are Paradise and Sunrise.

The road to Sunrise area is open only from July to September while the paradise area is open year-round.

Other popular areas of the park include Carbon River, Longmire, White River, and Ohanapecosh. 

The Henry M Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise is the most popular visitor center in Mount Rainier.

At the visitor center you will find many exhibits related to the geology, flora and fauna, natural resources, and history of Mount Rainier.

The Paradise area is known for its meadows filled with wildflowers during summer.

Along the hiking trails in Paradise you will see glacier views, waterfalls, and stunning views of the volcanic peaks in the Cascade ranges. 

The Paradise region is also popular during winter for snow activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding.

The Sunrise area is closer to Seattle but much less visited.

This region is at a much higher altitude than Paradise and completely inaccessible during winter.

Sunrise is popular for its stellar views of the meadows, the valley, and Mount Rainier. Sunrise Nature Trail and Sunrise Rim Trail after two most popular hikes in this region.

Mt Rainier national park is a photographer’s paradise for its scenic views. 

Travel Tip – Visiting Mount Rainier with kids? Be sure to visit the nearby Northwest Trek wildlife park to see animals up close.

Mount Rainier National Park Wildflowers Meadow, Seattle, Washington
Mount Rainier National Park Wildflowers Meadow, Seattle, Washington

Hike the Pacific Crest Trail

One of the most awesome things to do in Washington State for outdoor lovers!

The Pacific Crest Trail is more than 2,600 miles long and stretches from the Mexican border in California to Canada. 

It passes through some of the most spectacular landscapes on earth. 

There are more than 1,200 trail miles that cross Washington State; it’s a great place to start your hike!

The state also has several day hikes that let you experience the PCT in a short time.

Get a taste of Europe in Leavenworth

Located in the Cascade mountains of Central Washington, Leavenworth is a charming Bavarian Village.

It is #1 amongst cool things to do in Washington state, especially during holiday season.

It has Alpine chalet-style architecture and is significantly influenced by the Bavarian traditions in Germany.

Leavenworth is extremely photogenic and a wonderful place to visit especially during the holiday season when twinkling lights decorate the entire town.

The town is not authentically Bavarian but was intentionally transformed into a Bavarian-style village to draw tourism when logging in the region declined, just like Helen – the beautiful Bavarian town in Georgia. 

The Front Street of Leavenworth is full of restaurants serving German beer and food.

Visitors can eat traditional delicacies like bratwursts, sauerkrauts, schnitzels, and pretzels while visiting the town.

Leavenworth celebrates events such as Octoberfest and Christmas markets on a large scale.

The Oktoberfest celebrations especially are best in the USA and one of top things to do in Washington state for beer lovers.

One of the unique area attractions is the Nutcracker Ballet Museum.

Also must visit is the Gingerbread Factory, a bakery that sells delicious baked goods.

There are also many wineries, breweries, and distilleries close to the town. 

There are plenty of outdoor things to do in Leavenworth.

In the summer, tourists can go hiking and biking in the region.

In late summer, you can see colorful white flowers whereas during autumn, you will see beautiful fall colors. You can also go white water rafting on the Wenatchee River.

During winter, this charming Bavarian town is the gateway to skiing in the Cascades.

Stevens Pass ski resort is one of the most popular skiing destinations and among locals, skiing here is must do in Washington state in winter.

This is the perfect outdoor playground for visitors from Seattle and the rest of the country. 

Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth, Washington

See the blast zone at Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Looking for unique experiences in Washington State? How about seeing a volcano?

Mount St. Helens is an active stratovolcano in Washington and one of most intriguing things to see in Washington state.

The national monument protects the volcanic peak and its surrounding area.

It is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire and the last major eruption occurred in 1980.

The Johnston Ridge Observatory and Visitor Center has a beautiful view of the volcanic peak and is open from May to October. 

The Mount St Helens Forest Learning Center is free to visit and has many exhibits regarding the eruption.

There are many trails in the National Monument and hiking is one of the popular activities on hikes you can expect to see wildlife including bears and elk.

Visitors can also take a helicopter tour of the blast zone – top things to see in Washington state, climb the volcano (permit required) and explore the Ape Caves on the south side of the monument. 

Beautiful vistas at Mt. St. Helens national volcanic monument
Beautiful vistas at Mt. St. Helens national volcanic monument

Fall in love with Deception Pass on Whidbey Island

Located in the Puget Sound, Whidbey Island is a great tourist destination.

The island has beautiful scenery, pastel-colored wood buildings, and fantastic wildlife – cool places in Washington state for a romantic getaway.

The island is easily accessible by ferry and even cars are permitted on it.

Things to see on Whidbey Island include Ebey’s Landing, Deception Pass State Park, and the small harbor towns of Langley, Oak Harbor, Clinton, and Coupeville. 

The island has many outdoor activities.

Visitors can hike, bike, birdwatch, go fishing, enjoy the beaches and watch stunning sunsets on the island.

The Deception Pass State Park, located on the north tip of Whidbey Island, deserves a special mention.

The Deception Pass Bridge is a national historic site and very photogenic.

From the entire park and the bridge you will have beautiful coastal views. 

Deception Pass in Washington
Deception Pass in Washington

Get charmed at Port Angeles

Port Angeles, located on the Olympic Peninsula, is one of the most beautiful places in Washington.

The city is the perfect gateway to Olympic National Park and located close to Washington state points of interest on the peninsula.

You can stay in Port Angeles and make a day trip out to the park for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.

The wildlife and marine life are abundant around Port Angeles.

Common sightings include orcas, whales, deer, mountain goats, and sea birds. 

But apart from the outdoors, there are many things to do in the city itself.

The downtown has everything from museums to casinos and is a lively place to visit.

Many charming boutiques and stores are located around the downtown and waterfront areas.

You can shop for clothes, books, handmade gifts, antiques, fresh produce, and artisan goods.

Take a stroll along the Port Angeles mural trail to see beautiful murals or visit the Elwha Klallam Heritage Center to see Native American artifacts.

Beachcombing is also a popular tourist activity. 

An Elk Near Elwha River
An Elk Near Elwha River

Get cultured at Spokane

Spokane, located in Eastern Washington, is one of the top cities to visit in the state after Seattle and Tacoma.

One of the city’s highlights is the Spokane Falls. Visitors can take a cable car ride to see the waterfall from above.

The city has beautiful urban parks and gardens including the Centennial Trail, the Riverfront Park, and the botanical Manito Park.

Manito Park’s Japanese Garden is especially beautiful. 

Spokane also has many museums and is a cultural destination.

Visit the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture to see a beautiful variety of Native American arts and culture on display.

St John’s Cathedral has beautiful Gothic architecture and is worth a visit.

In winter, the Mount Spokane Ski and snowboard park is a premier attraction. 

Spokane Falls in Spokane, Washington
Spokane Falls in Spokane, Washington

Get up close to Canada in Bellingham

The city of Bellingham is closer to the Canadian border than to other major attractions in the US.

Bellingham is located close to the North Cascades National Park and also has easy access to the San Juan Islands.

The Western Washington University is located in Bellingham and as a result the city has a significant college population.

One of the main highlights of Bellingham is the Whatcom Falls Park, where visitors can see the Whatcom Creek cascade over the rocky landscape. 

The historic district of the city has beautiful Victorian architecture and is great for a stroll.

Science buffs should visit the Spark Museum of Electrical Invention which has amazing science exhibits including a Tesla coil and replicas of Edison’s bulbs.

The Mount Baker ski area is located near Bellingham and is a must-visit for avid skiers in winter. 

You can enjoy both a cross country skiing and downhill skiing near Crystal Mountain.

Sunrise Over Mt. Baker as Seen From Bellingham
Sunrise Over Mt. Baker as Seen From Bellingham

See the stunning Snoqualmie Falls

The Snoqualmie Falls are one of most popular attractions of Washington state and visited by over millions of visitors every year.

The falls are 269 ft tall and look beautiful as they cascade down the mountainside.

There are many things to do in Snoqualmie Falls.

Visitors can hike the 1/2 miles one-way trail to the base of the falls.

The views from the bottom are beautiful. 

For those who do not want to hike, the falls can also be easily seen from an easily accessible viewing platform near the parking lot.

The Snoqualmie Falls also look amazing when seen from the viewing platform.

The falls look especially beautiful in spring when the ice melts and the falls are at their full capacity. 

Cascading Water at Snoqualmie Falls, Washington
Cascading Water at Snoqualmie Falls, Washington

Walk the Bridge of Glass in Tacoma

Tacoma is located south of Seattle and is a great weekend getaway from the Emerald City.

Tacoma is also located on the Puget Sound and enjoys beautiful water views.

The city has many cultural attractions.

One of the most popular attractions in Tacoma is the Museum of Glass which exhibits artwork by Dale Chihuly.

The museum building itself has beautiful architecture. 

The beautiful Bridge of Glass connects the museum to Downtown Tacoma and is decorated with many of Chihuly’s artworks.

Other good museums in the city include the Tacoma Art Museum, the LeMay car Museum, and the Washington State History Museum which has a nice display of model trains and is one of best things to do with kids in Washington state.

Another favorite with the kids is the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium. 

Washington State History Museum in dowtown Tacoma
Washington State History Museum in dowtown Tacoma

Admire the architecture of the Washington State Capitol, Olympia 

The beautiful Washington State Capitol is located in Olympia and worth a guided tour.

The Capitol is built in the Greco-Roman style of architecture.

The rotunda is also magnificent and has the state seal on the floor.

The Capitol has a marble interior with beautiful chandeliers designed by Tiffany’s.

You can discover the history of the building, see its architecture, and know more about the legislature on an hour-long free tour offered by the State Capitol. 

The guides are knowledgeable and make the tour interesting and fun.

Alternatively, visitors can also tour the building by themselves but they won’t be able to see certain areas.

Olympia also has many other things to do and see besides the Washington State Capitol Complex.

See the Capitol Lake, enjoy the waterfront Percival Landing, and go birdwatching at the Billy Frank Jr Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge a– excellent Washington attractions in the state.

Washington State Capitol in Olympia
Washington State Capitol in Olympia

Explore the charming town of Vancouver

The city of Vancouver, Washington is a hidden gem in the heart of America. 

The quaint town, located across the Columbia River Gorge from Portland, has an abundance of history and culture.

Stroll through the old neighborhoods and visit attractions such as the Clark County Historical Museum, Farmers Market, and the Waterfront Renaissance Trail.

Visit the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site to see restored army buildings and learn about what life would have been like when fur traders settled here.

And if you’re looking for more natural beauty while exploring Vancouver – take the scenic drive along Columbia River Gorge!

Learn about Lewis & Clark Expedition at Cape Disappointment State Park

What to do in Washington state for history lovers? Learn about the Lewis & Clark Expedition at Cape Disappointment.

Cape Disappointment State Park is located where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean.

The park is a part of Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Parks that honors the Lewis and Clark expedition.

Inside the State Park, you will see beautiful old-growth forests, lakes, and marshes.

The park also has two lighthouses – the North Head Lighthouse and the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse. 

The Lewis and Clark interpretive center has exhibits from the expedition, the history of the park including the construction of Fort Stevens, and maritime history of the Columbia River.

Visitors can camp, hike, bike, sea kayak, paddleboard, and enjoy the scenic views at the park.

The North Head Lighthouse can be seen on guided tours. 

Cape Dissapointment lighthouse Washington
Cape-Dissapointment lighthouse Washington

See the trees turned into stone at Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park

One of the most unusual places in Washington State is the Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park.

It is located on the shores of the Wanapum Dam near the city of Vantage along the Columbia River.

This bare desert landscape was the site of lush green forest millions of years ago.

The state park preserves an entire forest of petrified wood and is amongst top Washington things to do.

Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park in Washington state
Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park in Washington state

The site contains dozens of fossilized prehistoric trees including the petrified ginkgo tree.

Inside the Visitor Center and Museum, you can see beautiful cross-sections of petrified wood.

Apart from petrified wood, visitors can also see fossils of prehistoric animals and Native American petroglyphs at the state park.

Walk along the 1.5 miles long Trees of Stone interpretive trail to see various types of excavated petrified trees including maple, fir, and elm.

It is fascinating to watch the trees hardened to stone due to volcanic activity, making it one of the best places to visit in Washington State. 

Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park, WA
Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park, WA

See the lavender fields at Sequim

What to visit in Washington state for flower lovers?

Sequim, Washington is most famous for its vast and beautiful lavender fields.

There are many lavender farms in the Sequim-Dungeness area and almost all of them are open to visitors.

The lavender farms are stunning and gorgeous when the lavender is in bloom.

Visitors can take a stroll and walk in the huge lavender farms and purchase lavender products at the farm gift shops.

Sequim also organizes an annual lavender festival in the summer, which is worth a visit. 

Another popular thing to see and do in Sequim is the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge.

This natural area is popular for its wildlife viewing and bird watching.

Other attractions at Dungeness include hiking, kayaking, exploring the beaches and ocean shore, and touring the charming New Dungeness Lighthouse.

Other places to visit in Sequim include the Olympic Game Farm Wildlife safari, Railroad Bridge Park, etc. 

Lavender field in Sequim,Washington
Lavender field in Sequim,Washington

Enjoy the tulip fields in La Conner & Skagit Valley

Where to visit in Washington state during spring?

Skagit Valley in spring is one of the most beautiful places in the whole world, let alone Washington.

The Skagit Valley is popular for its tulip fields that are in full bloom in April.

During the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, visitors can see row after row of vibrant colored tulips.

The fields look stunning and rival those in the Netherlands.

The tulip festival is one of the most popular Instagram spots in Washington. 

The epicenter of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is La Conner, a small community that is centrally located from all the flower fields.

In addition to the tulips, La Conner has its own Daffodil Festival in March. Visitors from all over the world descend on La Conner in March and April.

Along with the flower fields, you can spend time by the waterfront, attend music concerts, go wine tasting in local wineries, visit the Skagit County Historical Museum, and the one of its kind La Conner Quilt and Textile Museum. 

tulip fields in Skagit Valle, Washington
tulip fields in Skagit Valle, Washington

Take the ferry to Bainbridge Island

Bainbridge Island makes the perfect day trip from Seattle.

The island can be reached by taking a short 35-minute ferry away from Seattle Waterfront.

There are many things to do on the island including boutique shopping, parks and marinas, and historic museums.

The island also has great seafood restaurants, wineries, breweries, and cafes.

Visit the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art to see work by local artists of the Pacific Northwest.

The free Bainbridge Island Historical Museum has details about the history and life on the island.

Nature and outdoor lovers should visit the Eagle Harbor Waterfront Park and hike the waterfront trails to see historic structures and marine life.

Bainbridge Island also has many other attractions and is a great relaxing getaway in Washington.

Bainbridge Island Puget Sound, Washington
Bainbridge Island Puget Sound, Washington

Experience Native American culture at Tillicum Village

Tillicum Village is a tourist attraction located in Blake Island State Park on Blake Island in Puget Sound.

The only way to reach the island is by boat.

You can take a four-hour-long cruise known as the Tillicum Excursion from Seattle to the village.

The excursions are operated solely by Argosy Cruises.

Along with the excursion events, visitors also get an hour to explore the island. 

In the village, visitors can experience the Pacific Northwest Native American culture and see a half an hour-long storytelling and dance performance.

The dancers are dressed in traditional costumes and wear wooden masks.

The excursion includes a meal of fire smoked salmon in the longhouse.

Visitors can also see a variety of native arts and crafts.

A visit to the island is a really great introduction to the indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest and hence, best attractions in Washington state for history and culture enthusiasts.

We hope you like our post on the best things to do in the state of Washington.

Did we miss out on any amazing attractions in the Emerald State that we should add to the Washington State Bucket List?

What is amongst your favorite things to see and do in Washington state? Let us know in the comments.

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