Places to Ski in the Cascades for the day |
Hiking
Hiking is without a doubt one of the top 10 things to do in Washington State, particularly during the warmer months of the year. No matter what your fitness level is, you'll find a myriad of trails in Washington State to suit both families and the most daring hikers.
Day easy hikes in WA for families and dog walkers include Discovery Park and Carkeek in Seattle, Flaming Geyser State Park in Auburn, and Blake Island State Park in Port Orchard.
best hiking spots in the US |
Snow Activities
Skiing and snowboarding are certainly on the list of top 10 things to do in Washington State, which isn't surprising since the state is the mecca for skiing in the region. In fact, Washington State ranks top along Utah and Colorado as one the best places to ski in the US. Popular ski areas and resorts in Washington State include Crystal Mountain, Stevens Pass ski resort in Skykomish, and Leavenworth Ski Hill.
As far as tubing, sledding and fun snow areas for kids, the Summit Tubing Center in Snoqualmie is one of the most popular spots, though most state parks in Washington State do boast sno-park areas where you can do sledding and tubing for free.
Beer Tasting
Brewpubs are plentiful in Washington State which makes beer tasting another of the top 10 things to do in Washington State. The city of Seattle is hands down the best places to find great brewpubs such as Elysian Brewing Company, Big Time Brewery, Hale’s Ales Pub and Pyramid Breweries Inc. You can also enjoy beer and wine tasting at selected farmers markets throughout the state such as the West Seattle Farmers Market in Seattle, Proctor Farmers Market in Tacoma, and Everett Farmers market in Everett.
Besides brewpubs, Washington State boasts beer festivals and events that you can attend all year-round such as Seattle International Beerfest in July, and the Washington Brewers Festival (in June) where you’ll be able to sample hundreds of different tasty brews all in one place.
Wildlife/Bird Watching
Another of the top 10 things to do in Washington State is viewing wildlife and birds. The state is home to amazing scenery and a rich variety of migratory birds and diverse wildlife species ideal for viewing anytime of the year.
The Olympic Park in Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula is perhaps one of the best spots for viewing all kinds of wildlife. The park is home to the Hoh Rain Forest and Quinault Rainforest which boast amazing fauna and flora such as bobcat, black bear, woodpeckers, bigleaf maples and Sitka Spruce trees which grow to amazing heights (over 300ft tall).
Whale Watching
If you’re planning a vacation to Washington State anytime between March and September, you’ll be able to enjoy whale watching, which is without a doubt one of the top 10 things to do in Washington State. Seeing up-close the mighty orca whales and majestic gray whales is truly one of the best experiences in the world!
The best place for viewing whales and booking whale watching tours is in the San Juan Islands, particularly from Friday Harbor where you’ll be able to book whale watching tours with companies such as Western Prince and San Juan Safaris.
Having said this, whale watching tours aren’t the only way to see these beautiful creatures up-close. Whales can be seen along the coast of Washington State from places such as the observation tower in Westport, Fort Canby State Park, and Cape Alava.
Water Activities
Spending time on the water is another of the top 10 things to do in Washington State during the warm months of the year. Water sports such as water skiing, river rafting, fishing and diving are some of the most popular pastimes on a hot summer’s day.
Snoqualmie Falls Park is probably one of the most popular spots for tubing in Washington State as you can float on an inflatable inner tube from the falls down the river while enjoying the lovely views around, or enjoying a can of beer with your buddies.
As far as fly fishing, there are many great spots to choose from, though the Skagit River is the preferred spot for fly-fishers as this river is home to the mighty giant steelheads.
Gambling
Casinos are also aplenty in Washington State so gambling is another activity you can get up to when in Washington State. Popular casinos include Tulalip Casino in Tulalip, Palace Casino in La Center, Snoqualmie Casino in Snoqualmie, and Silver Reef Casino in Ferndale.
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