10 Most Scenic Towns in Washington
Washington is one of the most naturally abundant states in America, and its geographical setting in the north plays a crucial element in why Washington is home to some of the most charming small towns. The Evergreen State boasts over 3000 waterfalls in the area according to the World Waterfall Database, and a range of environmental settings ranging from the hidden natural paradise of Snoqualmie to the agricultural center of Walla Walla and the waterfront vacation town of Gig Harbor.
Leavenworth
Opening the ultimate list of the most scenic Washington towns is the Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth, which sits in the Cascade Mountains area and enjoys a lively community. Leavenworth has a mountainous backdrop and a Bavarian-inspired atmosphere of architecture, food, and streets. In addition to its charming small-town ambiance, Leavenworth offers abundant recreational opportunities for adventurous visitors, like hiking, mountain biking, rafting, and more. Despite being a year-round destination, one of the best times to visit Leavenworth is during Christmas for the luminous decorations that complement its streets, turning it into a magical winter wonderland.
Port Townsend
Port Townsend is known for the historic allure of its streets, decorated with creatively structured Victorian buildings. Complementing the welcoming atmosphere is a range of park preserves that make for an excellent picnic or camping spot near the center of it all. Notable eco-rich places to visit include Fort Worden State, Chetzemoka Park, and Pope Marine Park. Experience the town through remnants of its past, like Port Townsend Public Library, The Rose Theater, and the Post Office, which was once a Federal Building of extreme importance. Festivals and community events also play an essential part in attracting state locals and tourists alike with annual events like the Olympic Music Fest, Centrum’s Jazz, and the Port Townsend Acoustic Blues Festival.
Friday Harbor
Friday Harbor is located on the picturesque San Juan Island, showcasing a facet of the state distinct from the usual verdant and historic landscapes. Friday Harbor stands out with vistas of the Salish Sea and whale-watching tours with popular local companies like Western Prince Whale Watching Adventures. Offering captivating adventures for all interests and appeals, visitors can catch cotton-candy sunsets on the waterfront, indulge in water sports activities, or go on a self-led explorative trip to main attractions like the Whale Museum and the San Juan Islands Museum of Art. Aside from recreational and nature-centric activities, the town’s locally owned businesses add to its beauty, making you feel right at home; such as the quaint boutiques of Spring Street that stretch from the waterfront up to Argyle Street. Rocky Bay Cafe & Delicatessen, Griffin Bay Bookstore, and Blue Water Bar and Grill are a few of the many locally renowned businesses to check out while strolling Friday Harbor to explore.
Anacortes
Adding to the water-surrounded towns of Washington is Anacortes. With its geographical significance, the town offers an inclusive experience of history, nature, and scenic views. While many visitors discover the beauties of Anacortes by stopping by while heading out to explore neighboring islands like Lopez and San Juan, its captivating charm and many parks call for a longer stay. The Maritime Heritage Center, based on an old ship, the historic downtown district, and the Anacortes History Museum are a few of the must-see destinations in the area. Hike the Mount Erie Summit Trail, go for a fresh-air morning run at the waterside Guemes Channel Trail, and catch some of the best views of the town’s Marina from Cap Sante Park.
La Conner
La Conner is a neighboring town of a few other island-setting small towns on this list, like Anacortes and Friday Harbor. The town differentiates itself with an invigorating old-school atmosphere, a creative, crafty industry of small shops, and some of the best golf courses in Skagit County. Many choose to explore La Conner by visiting the historic Gaches Mansion that is now a quilt and textile Museum, indulging in a free contemporary art tour at the Museum of Northwest Art, and browsing First Street and its range of local boutiques selling handcrafted products of glassware, wooden collectibles and more.
Walla Walla
Known for its wineries and vineyards, Walla Walla features picturesque rolling hills and is one of the state’s main agricultural communities. The town’s fertile geographical setting influences the production of everything from strawberries to sweet onions and wheat. Thanks to its perfect diverse setting, the city also enjoys extensive history, which you can learn more about at Fort Walla Walla, built in 1856 and now transformed into a museum. There are dozens of local shops on Main Street to explore when visiting the town, with eclectic businesses like Ella Mae Boutique, Lost Boardroom, and Tra Vigne Walla Walla. Visitors often go to fruit-picking picnics in local public farms like Frog Hollow Farm or book their flower workshop at flower fields in the area like Patina Farms, known for their picturesque, wedding-appropriate backdrops.
Winthrop
Winthrop exudes old-western charm with wooden boardwalks and the stunning backdrop of the North Cascades in the Methow Valley. You'll find woodenfront shops, where you can indulge in a range of local wines and relax in serene openlands of greenery. The Western-themed towns attract visitors from all over the country for their 19th-century atmosphere and extensive trails connecting Methow Valley with recreational outdoor destinations like Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and Methow Winter Range And Wildlife Refuge. Recommended places in Winthrop include the Shafer Historical Museum, the Old Schoolhouse Brewery, and the nearby Pearrygin Lake State Park.
Ellensburg
While Winthrop Washington is western-themed to attract visitors, Ellensburg is the real deal of wild-west heritage depicted through buildings, community events, and museums. The annual Ellensburg Rodeo is one of the town’s major attractions and lasts three days, with over 600 competing contestants determining winners every Monday, Labour Day. You can learn more about how it all started at the Ellensburg Rodeo Hall Of Fame. Ellensburg still embraces its roots of agricultural production through the explorable fields of timothy hay, nicknamed fields of gold, that are backed by scenic mountainous landscapes, making for a perfect, Instagrammable, picturesque spot. The town’s charm can also be experienced at one of the locally renowned wineries, such as Thrall & Dodge Winery, or through the taste of its local cuisine at popular restaurants like Cornerstone Pie and the old-school American Red Horse Diner.
Gig Harbor
As its name suggests, Gig Harbor is a waterfront town with an extensive maritime history, offering a peaceful escape for water sports enthusiasts and summer vacationers. The quaint small fishing town is located on the Puget Sound. The city is named Gig Harbor after a longboat named “Captain’s Gig” that docked the harbors in an expedition in the 1840s. From waterfront parks to picnics and enjoying family fun like the Skansie Brothers Park and Nethed to coastal community events like The Waterfront Farmers Market, Gig Harbor is one the best scenic weekend vacation destinations on this list.
Snoqualmie
If untouched nature is your definition of the ideal scenic escape, look no further than Snoqualmie, recognized for its breathtaking waterfalls and extravagantly green lands. Wrapping up the list of most scenic Washington towns is a small community named after its original tribe that boasts some of the best breathtaking vistas in the Evergreen State. Snoqualmie played an important historical role for its location on the banks of Snoqualmie River, which was once a central transportation hub. In addition to its vibrant nature, Snoqualmie boasts a range of museums that honor the local efforts of developing a community that stands out by all means. Go-to destinations to learn more about the naturally-steeped community include Northwest Railway Museum, Snoqualmie Falls Hydroelectric Museum, and the Heritage Museum of Snoqualmie Valley in the nearby community of North Bend.
Discover Washington's Charm
In Washington, every town tells a story. From its sweeping landscapes to timeless architecture, the state seamlessly combines natural beauty with cultural richness. If you're drawn to scenic vistas, historic touchstones, or vibrant local festivals, don't wait. Embark on a journey and uncover the beauty of Washington's ten most scenic towns.
