Named after the first president of the United States, Washington hugs the Pacific Ocean in the far north-west of the country. It encompasses magnificent national parks home to ancient rainforests and active volcanoes, as well as energised cities such as Seattle, Olympia and Spokane.
Things to do in Washington
Whether you’re searching for remote wilderness or urban culture, Washington offers both.
Sightsee in Seattle. Washington’s largest city overlooks Puget Sound and is famed for its thriving tech industry and live music scene. Wander the leafy streets of Pioneer Square and visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum before enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of Pike Place Market. Sweeping city views are on offer from the futuristic Space Needle.
Get active in Olympic National Park. Encompassing rugged mountain peaks, old-growth forests and a spectacular stretch of coastline, Olympic National Park is a nature lover’s dream. Hike through the Hoh Rain Forest and photograph the Marymere Falls before enjoying the scenic views from Hurricane Ridge. Near Rialto Beach is the famous Hole-In-The-Wall rock formation.
Explore Spokane. Famed for its downtown cascades, Spokane is a riverside city in the far eastern region of Washington State. You can delve into the local history at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture and explore the John A. Finch Arboretum before admiring Manito Park’s Japanese Garden. On the site of the 1974 World’s Fair is Riverfront Park, home to the immense United States Pavilion.
Hike through Mount Rainier National Park. Named after its glacier-capped peak, Mount Rainier National Park provides a setting for hiking and fishing in the summer months before transforming into a cross-country skiing paradise in the wintertime. Explore the park’s subalpine meadows, forests and waterfalls along the 150-kilometre-long Wonderland Trail or check out the nature-themed exhibitions at the Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center.
Getting around Washington
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is the main aviation gateway to Washington and has flights to destinations across the globe. Amtrak trains connect major towns and cities throughout the state while long-distance buses and ferries are also available for getting around.