16 amazing Seattle day trips, according to someone who grew up there

A whole new world is just over a 30-minute ferry ride from the Seattle waterfront. You’ll dock in Winslow, a historic town with a main street that's home to numerous antique shops, cafes, and restaurants and is absolutely worth a stroll. Afterward, visit one of the art museums on the island or enjoy nature on one of the many hikes. The Bloedel Reserve is especially picturesque. 

Mount Rainier, the Cascades, and the Olympics may receive all the love. But, if you’re looking for a hike a bit closer to the city or not as adventurous, Cougar Mountain, Squak Mountain, Tiger, and Taylor Mountain are great options. Choose from numerous hikes of varying difficulty levels and enjoy views for days.

Head east on I-90 from Seattle. Just outside city limits, you’ll come across adorable North Bend. A quintessential Pacific Northwest mountain town, it’s best known as an outdoor sports base. Hike Mount Si, Rattlesnake Ledge, the Iron Horse Trail, ski in the winter, or enjoy a soak at the Goldmyer Hotsprings. Then, fuel up with delicious dishes at the North Bend Bar & Grill.

The south sound rarely gets much love from visitors, which is such a shame. Gig Harbor, in particular, is a lovely little town across the sound from Seattle’s southern neighbor, Tacoma. You can wander the town's various shops and cafes, rent a boat, paddleboard, or kayak or pretend you’re in Europe on one of the gondola rides. 

Who doesn’t love a day trip that doesn’t even require leaving the city limits? The quick 20-minute ferry ride across the sound is made quicker thanks to the boat being passenger-only, different from the car ferries typical in Washington state. Once you dock, rent a bike or scooter or simply walk a couple of miles along the water to Alki Beach. One of the few sandy beaches in the Seattle area, there’s always something going on here!

Right near where I grew up, I consider Edmonds my second hometown. The downtown is completely walkable and full of cute cafes, breweries, and shops — most of which are dog-friendly. There are four main beaches to choose from, including one for our furry friends, whale-watching tours, boat rentals, and a ferry terminal if you want to extend your trip to the Olympic Peninsula!

Head north on I-5 from the city, and you'll reach lovely Bellingham in just under two hours. A great base to hike the nearby peaks or just enjoy Lake Padden, Lake Whatcom, and others. If you need a snack (or an entire meal), hit up the historic Fairhaven district. And for the super adventurous, continue your journey on an Alaskan ferry, which departs from the Port of Bellingham!

This Seattle icon, which locals use to measure the weather — if the mountain is out, it means it’s a nice day — greets lucky visitors as soon as you descend on the city. There are so many hikes to tackle in the park, you could easily fill an entirely separate trip! For those with a day to spare, make sure to choose either Paradise or Sunrise, as both are too much for just 12 or so hours. Note: the Sunrise region is seasonal, so check before you leave!

This massive Pacific Northwest icon lies east of Seattle, between Snoqualmie and Fall City. The 268-foot waterfall is internationally renowned and will blow you away. Explore the two-acre park, admire the showers from the observation deck, and even stay overnight at Salish Lodge!

An easy 20-minute ferry ride from Mukilteo is this gem of an island. Take coastal walks along Ebey’s Landing or Freeland, shop the boutiques in Coupeville and Langley, or visit historic Fort Casey. To round out the day, drive to the island's north end, take the Deception Pass bridge across to the mainland, stop for a quick hike and then hop on I-5 to return to Seattle!

The Olympics are a bit far for a day trip, but plenty of Seattleites make the trek on weekends, and understandably so! The massive park stretches from the ocean beaches through the Hoh Rainforest to the Olympic Mountains. If you only have a day, pick one area to explore in depth!

You’ve probably heard of this town. During the no-overseas travel days of the pandemic, it showed up on every “towns that feel like you’re in Europe” list. Thus, it’s best enjoyed in the holiday season (complete with decorations and Christmas Markets straight out of Germany) or in the fall during Oktoberfest. However, with numerous cabins for rent, nearby hikes, and ski hills, you’ll never be bored — no matter when you visit.

On the other side of Lake Washington sits the Eastside suburbs. Kirkland is the most beautiful and is a great place to spend an afternoon. Grab a drink at one of the cute cafes or bars, take a dip at one of the city lakes, or bike (or walk) along the urban trails.

Northeast of Kirkland is wine and horse country, or Woodinville. Home to plenty of stables where you can take a lesson, trail ride, or catch a show during the summer. Then, cool down with a refreshing taste at one of the wineries that dot the area.

Just under three hours away by ferry is adorable Victoria, British Columbia (don’t forget your passport)! The province’s capital is a lovely destination. Have lunch by the harbor, admire Victorian-era houses, and visit the Craigdarroch Castle and neighboring gardens.

On the way north to the border, before you reach Bellingham, is a very beautiful region known as Skagit Valley. Most famous for the tulip festival, there’s no reason to head across the Atlantic for flowers in the spring! Outside of the season, go horseback riding, hiking, or take a dip in the Skagit River.