7 Timeless Towns In Washington
What does the Evergreen State bring to mind? Top-rated entertainment venues, Michelin dining, and Starbucks? Some enjoy the best all-inclusive resorts, the fine-sand beaches, and five-star cruises. But for that frozen-in-time feel, there is nothing like enchanting architecture in a quaint downtown after a less-traveled hike to a scenic wildlife spot. These rustic towns shine year-round with historic gems and classic attractions for your family.
Boasting traditional seasons, Washington's complicated nature encompasses the Pacific Northwest. The echoes of the past resonate against star-studded skies on a camping trip or an orca's fin gliding across the Pacific waters. Channel your Lewis and Clark in Dayton; you won't be "disappointed" around Ilwaco either. From two island escapes to its two oldest towns, it's like putting together a timeless puzzle for an overall picture of the state.
Coupeville
The sheltered shores of Penn Cove were long sought after for nature's gifts. Home to the Indigenous Coast Salish villages of Lower Skagit peoples for thousands of years, the area was settled by Europeans in the 1850s. The sea captains and farmers established the state's second-oldest town, building the historic wharf and growing crops on the outskirts. Now the heart of Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve, Coupeville boasts a striking waterfront overlooking peaceful Penn Cove with its historic red Coupeville Wharf.
The town attracts the outdoorsy with great vantage of the Olympic Mountains, access to the Puget Sound, and many eagles in the sky. Adventurous couples can explore the trails of Fort Ebey and Fort Casey or bike around Whidbey Island's attractions. The area reflects its long history through shell middens and thriving multi-generational family farms. After shopping downtown against the historic backdrop, try the famous local Penn Cove mussels and catch the sunset behind the historic Admiralty Head Lighthouse. Filmmakers love the fusion of nature and history here. Most famous as the "New England" setting for Practical Magic, it's a great Halloween town to visit during the Haunting of Coupeville.
Dayton
Dayton is a timeless gem in southeast Washington. First explored in 1806 by the Lewis and Clark expedition, the first pioneers abandoned the area in 1855 due to Indian attacks. For four years, war rumors persisted between the tribes, settlers, and troops. In 1859, treaties brought peace and settlers back after establishing Indian grounds. Named "Day's town" after Jesse Day, the planner and businessman, Dayton was incorporated in 1874. Home to 1,500 people, the "Wildly" thriving town's 15 saloons attracted famous Wild West characters for shenanigans. Today, the town of 2,533 in a valley northeast of Walla Walla features the annual Depot Days, historic home tours, plus awesome packages. Many enjoy the "Art, Wine, and Heritage Getaway."
Among its 117 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, the 1881 Stick/Eastlake style Historic Depot is the state's oldest passenger station. Grab a guide for the three National Historic Districts and stay at the Victorian Weinhard Hotel. The Queen Anne, Italianate, Gothic, and Craftsman styles reflect the period between the 1880s and 1910—a legacy of rich local businessmen and farmers. The 1887 Columbia County Courthouse, the state's oldest, operates in a beautiful Italianate building. You can explore the outdoors at the confluence of the Touchet River and Patit Creek, where the expedition once set camp creekside. Don't miss the authentic model of the Patit Creek campsite, plus the renovated Liberty Theater on Main Street. After a stroll in the past, explore the wine country.
Friday Harbor
Friday Harbor is well known on San Juan Island, the main one in the archipelago. Home to 2,771 people, the tiny town boasts a charming downtown with island vibes, delectables, plus tour operators ready to take you away on a whale-watching excursion or a fishing charter. Full of historic gems between the art galleries, museums, and restaurants, it is perfect to combine a seaside retreat with history. From the Spanish explorers to Hudson's Bay Company, the San Juan Historical Museum encompasses an eight-building exhibit on the 445-acre 1800s James King farm. The Whale Museum is the nation's first devoted to the area's primary residents—before Indigenous seafarers—the wild orcas.
The sprawling San Juan Island National Historical Park divulges Pig War history in a natural setting. This 1859 confrontation site was a heated ground with camps primed for war after Americans shot a British-owned pig—the only casualty in the 12-year territorial dispute. Pick up a new skill like sea kayaking or spend a day on nature trails through Lime Kiln Point State Park, a prime whale-watching spot. Strolling downtown, the intimate setting at Coho Restaurant is perfect for relaxing after a filling seafood fare over an extensive wine list. Everything on the island is within a 15- to 20-minute drive, from the traces of army camps to island-made wines at San Juan Vineyard. Catch the panoramic sunset over the state park's rocky bluffs.
Ilwaco
Home to 1,123 residents, Ilwaco is a real hidden gem in the southwest corner of the state on Cape Disappointment. Nordic immigrants set sights on the land that reminded them of their home. By the early 20th century, Ilwaco looked like a postcard Finnish village in a fog of the traditional Finnish saunas in the area. Although these no longer exist, you can admire other original structures like the 1870s Colbert House. It was built by the early settlers and turned into an iconic museum with the early fishing town's artifacts, memorabilia, and exhibits. Next to the Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum, Salt Pub is the local low-key "it" spot for authentic grub, waterside. For more nature, park yourself at the popular Thousand Trails Long Beach and explore Beard's Hollow View Point.
The modest fishing and logging town of the past is a popular off-the-beaten-path destination today. The coastal town offers minute access to the state park's treasure trove of trails and historic sites like Bell's View Trailhead, the overgrown WWII Battery, and relaxing ocean vistas over the forest. You will be following in the explorers' footsteps, which the nearby Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center describes alongside maritime and military history. Active since 1898, the famous North Head Light was named by fur trader John Meares, who failed to properly identify the mouth of the Columbia River in 1788. After the sweeping view from the top, including the northernmost point of Oregon, spread a picnic to reflect overlooking the white, red-roofed Head Lighthouse Keeper's Residence on a carpet of green.
Port Townsend
This historic, multifaceted town offers wildlife, whale tours, and jagged mountain peaks. No wonder Port Townsend has long attracted travelers to the tip of the Olympic Peninsula. The iconic Olympic National Park was once an obstacle—now a destination for the best adventures in the state. Whether you are a hiker, camper, or backpacker, the town's ornate Victorian architecture enchants in the backdrop. At the tip, Fort Worden Historical State Park is a former military base overlooking Puget Sound with camping, rentals, and access to the dog-friendly undeveloped North Beach County Park. Nearby, the landscaped Chetzemoka Park is popular with a bandstand, picnic areas, a playground, and access to the beach along the whale-rich waters of the Puget Sound.
Brimming with local history and a unique character, the walkable downtown is like Victorian era 2.0, with boutiques, theaters, and bars surrounded by the historic building grandeur. From the Haller Fountain to delicious destination dining, JCHS Museum of Art + History boasts 19th-century courthouse digs with an original jail and fire hall. Take a stroll through the Rothschild House State Park Heritage Site and a boat tour from Pope Marine Park. Detour through Port Townsend Vineyards and Kah Tai, a lagoon with wetlands and ducks, plus walking trails and picnic areas. The Blue Moose Cafe for breakfast and Elevated Ice Cream Co. are not to be missed.
Steilacoom
Steeped in history, Steilacoom is an easy day trip just 43 miles south of Seattle. Enjoy a whole weekend escape between American Lake and the ocean, within reach of the Olympic Peninsula. You can explore Farrell's Marsh Wildlife Area, relax on the beach, and indulge in local dining in the state's oldest town. Incorporated in 1854, 35 years before Washington achieved statehood, many of its original buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places, like the 1858 Davidson House and the state's first Catholic church from 1855. The Steilacoom Historical Museum is a more modern building, while Topside Bar & Grill serves surf and turf with a roof deck for water views.
The inland Fort Steilacoom Park boasts trails to a playground, a historic place museum, a dog park, and the scenic Waughop Lake. Sunnyside Beach Park is perfect for recreation in the same views enjoyed by generations along 1,400 feet of shoreline, with a playground, a volleyball court, trails, and picnic areas. The dog-friendly Saltar's Point Beach is more serene. Strolling along the rustic architecture with eye-catching iconic designs, the 1903 Oberlin Congregational Church houses the Steilacoom Tribal Cultural Center & Museum with namesake Indigenous artifacts. The historic 1850 Chambers Creek Mill Site is just a small stone plaque bayside with a variety of birds around.
Winthrop
Settled by gold miners in 1883, this really old West riverside town is a blend of both original and Western-inspired buildings in the scenic Methow Valley. Enjoy snowshoeing now and later hiking right in town along the Winthrop Town Trailhead. From sledding and the famous Methow Trails for cross-country skiing to birding and horseback riding in the summer, there is always the exciting drive along the North Cascades Scenic Byway. Afterward, quench your thirst at Three Fingered Jack's Saloon. The timeless main drag transports you into an old western on a stroll along the storefronts to the relaxing patio at Old Schoolhouse Brewery, an equally relatable silver screen experience.
Named after adventure-loving author Theodore Winthrop, Winthrop is a fun blast from the past for the whole family, browsing locally produced artisan goods and souvenirs. You can relax along the Methow River through the heart, stop by the riverside Shafer Historical Museum, and cross the scenic bridge. Visit the town's fishery and catch a flick at the old-timey Barnyard Cinema. The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and Lake Chelan Recreational Area are just a scenic drive away for a day hike, mountain biking, or lakeside camping in the summer. Flying its colors for three days at the end of February, hit the town during the annual Balloon Roundup for the most cowboy culture.
Washington is enchanting as it is, but these locked-in-time towns are thought-provoking. Just choose a vibe you want to be transported to in the simpler days on a relaxing escape among the friendly locals who are avid outdoor lovers. There is plenty of snow fun now in the Old West town of Winthrop, or just imagine the springtime wildflowers along the Olympic slopes overlooking the Victorian Port Townsend.
Exuding timeless charm, each is packed with historic gems and classic attractions. Browse artisan goods or a local vineyard after a good hike. You will see historic sites and watch whales at Lime Kiln State Park. So pack your bags to clear your head now or plan the next getaway in Washington, like the second oldest town for Halloween.
