There’s a lot more to the Pacific Northwest than the bustling metropolis of Seattle. And even though you could easily spend your entire vacation experiencing all the Emerald City has to offer, there’s an entire state of mountains, wine countries and adventure to take in. Check out these five day trip ideas for your next Seattle getaway.
Mt. Rainier
Mt. Rainier (Image: Alaskan Dude)
The snowy 14,411-foot peak that’s synonymous with Seattle’s skyline becomes a winter wonderland during the chillier months. Skiing, snowboarding, sledding and snowmobiling can fill a playful winter day on Mt. Rainier. Come spring and summer, you can enjoy nature walks, fishing and camping on Washington’s favorite mountain.
Woodinville Wine Country
While coffee may be the de facto national drink in Washington, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the boutique winery scene in Washington. For an easy day trip from Seattle, head to Woodinville and take your pick of the more than 90 wineries that call this region home. One winery to put at the top of your list is Chateau Ste. Michelle, the state’s oldest winery and producer of one of the world’s top Rieslings.
Mount St. Helens
After making headlines for its violent eruption in 1980, Mount St. Helens remains the only active volcano in the lower 48 states. Don’t worry, though: The national park is completely safe to visit. Take in the sights from one of the park’s visitor centers as you learn about the volcano’s history, or opt for a helicopter ride over Mount St. Helens to see the unaffected areas of the park contrasted against the dramatic eruption devastation that can still be seen today.
Bainbridge Island
Less than an hour from Seattle by ferry, Bainbridge Island is a popular day trip for visitors looking for small-town charm. Pop into one of the outstanding local restaurants, spend an afternoon wandering the miles of waterfront, kayak your way through Puget Sound or check out one of the many local parks, and be sure not to miss the famed views of the Seattle skyline.
Snoqualmie Falls
Just 40 minutes outside Seattle, Snoqualmie Falls is a scenic escape from Emerald City. The dramatic 270-foot waterfall is best enjoyed over a gourmet breakfast at the nearby Salish Spa & Lodge.
(Main image: jc.winkler)
