9 Darling Small Towns in Washington
The 42nd State admitted to the Union and the only one to be named for a President, the great State of Washington is an undoubted jewel full of splendid culture and stunning natural beauty. A key component of America’s Pacific Northwest Region, there is nothing but raw beauty to be enjoyed in Washington State, while its wonderful towns are inviting and exciting places of discovery. Though the major cities of Seattle, Tacoma, and Olympia remain the best known, Washington also has a number of equally alluring smaller towns that showcase the very best of this part of the nation. From harbor communities to river towns, these darling places in Washington will definitely be the highlight of any trip to the Pacific Northwest. So wait no longer and come the best of Washington State across an exploration of these awesome towns!
Port Angeles
The seat of Clallam County, the beautiful town of Port Angeles can trace its modern history to the 1790s when it was settled by Spanish colonists. Today just over 20,000 inhabitants call it home where stunning views of the Olympic Mountains form a natural border. Indeed in addition to the mountain peaks, the natural splendor of Port Angeles makes it a wonderful place to enjoy a holiday. Enjoy the unique atmosphere that is the Olympic Peninsula, while great opportunities for sailing and swimming along the Pacific Ocean coastline is a real treat. Add in warm summer and mild winter temperatures and visiting Port Angeles and its surroundings is most welcoming throughout the year. And do not forget to visit the nearby Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic National Park where some of the best photo snapshots in all of Washington can be taken!
Coupeville
Just under 2,000 inhabitants call Coupeville home that also serves as the seat of Island County. Beautifully situated on Whidbey Island (on the southern shores of Penn Cove), this cool community was founded in the 1850s and it continues to emanate a special old world charm. A quiet and welcoming place, guests can explore such fascinating landmarks like the Fort Casey State Park and the Fort Ebey State Park, while its delightful waterfront district is dotted with many lovingly maintained 19th century edifices. Perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway, Coupeville also offers lovely beach areas for those looking to go swimming or sailing, while a cute assortment of local shops and diners round out the most pleasing ambience. Catch some fresh seafood at the Oystercatcher restaurant while great finger foods are never far away at Toby’s Tavern.
Port Townsend
Some 47 miles from Port Angeles, the town of Port Townsend is also scenically located on the Olympic Peninsula where it serves as Jefferson County’s seat. Chartered by the famed British captain, George Vancouver in the 1790s today just over 10,000 people reside in this mist delightful harbor community. A place of great natural beauty, stunning mountain landscapes (particularly of the Cascade Mountains) and lush greenery can be appreciated in the area while cool summer and winter temperatures make it a most unique place to discover. In addition Port Townsend’s historic character is a nice way to learn more about America’s past and time spent at the waterfront Historic District is always informative.
Explore such landmarks like the Bartlett House (1883) and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (1865) amongst many others that are included on the National Register of Historic Places. Finally make sure to visit the fascinating Fort Worden Historical State Park, where the history of the American military is examined in in a beautiful setting spanning some 432 aces.
Gig Harbor
Also known as the “Maritime City”, Gig Harbor is picturesquely situated along a one mile stretch of the Puget Sound. Founded in the mid 1800s and today home to a population of just over 12,000 residents, Gig Harbor remains a popular destination for its quaint charm and close vicinity to several State Parks, including Cutts Island and Kopachuck. And with great views of Mount Rainier in the distance, there is always a great photo opportunity awaiting. In addition guests can enjoy a welcoming waterfront district where shops and restaurants galore can be found, for a most charming outing. Enjoy a meal at Tides Tavern or Brix 25, while the chance to take a boat tour in the area will surely delight the young and old in any travelling party.
Stevenson
Near the border with the State of Oregon, the lovely town of Stevenson is uniquely situated within the stunning Columbia River Gorge. The seat of Skamania County and with a population of just under 1,500 residents, Stevenson is indeed a most charming and scenic community that any traveller in southern Washington will not want to miss. Take in the awesome vistas of the aforementioned River Gorge where lush green hills, majestic mountaintops, and of course the mighty Columbia River create the perfect natural landscape. Stop by the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum to learn more about the region through fascinating exhibits and artifacts, while a scenic drive across the Bridge of the Gods (1926) is a truly breathtaking experience. Finally for those looking for a real alpine resort stay, consider spending a night or two at the Skamania Lodge, for a most beautiful mountain retreat setting in an area covering some 175 acres of land.
Sequim
The town of Sequim lies along the Dungeness River at the base of the Olympic Mountains, where it was officially founded in the early 20th century. Home to a population of just over 8,000 residents, this splendid coastal town is also known as Washington State’s sunniest and on average it sees only some 400 mm of rain per year! Featuring mild temperatures throughout the year, there is indeed never a poor time to visit Sequim and take in its natural beauty. Stroll though the waterfront and marina area or take an excursion to the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge. Here hundreds of species of mammals and aquatic birds reside, and the chance to observe them in a natural habitat will be sure to delight all ages of traveller. From there visit the Sequim Museum & Arts to learn about more about Washington’s fascinating geologic past.
Finally for those visiting in the summertime, be sure not to miss Lavender Week. Sequim which is also known as the “Lavender Capital of North America”, locally grows stunning lavender flowers in a key component of the local economy. At this special week dedicated to the flower, a most fragrant and visually appealing celebration creates renewed appreciation for the hardworking botanists and famers of the region.
Walla Walla
Named for a Native American people, Walla Walla also serves as the seat of the same named county in southeastern Washington. A moderate sized town with a population of just under 34,000 inhabitants, this pleasing place is a great destination to enjoy the beauty of nature and learn more about America’s past. Boasting a hot summer and cool winter climate, Walla Walla is situated within the Walla Walla Valley where it is framed by the picturesque Blue Mountains, golden wheat fields, and rolling green hills. Indeed the natural splendor of the town and its surrounding area will surely delight all visitors, and special photo and video opportunities are always in abundance.
For the history minded guest, be sure to visit the historic Fort Walla Walla and a portion of the famous Oregon Trail. These living museum type attractions bring visitors back to the formative years of the Western United States in a fun and informatively immersive way. Finally for the adult travellers in the party, a stop by any of Walla Walla’s 120 plus wineries is a must. Offering some of the best in locally produced wines and other spirits, the alcohol industry remains one of the area’s most important economic sectors.
Maryhill
Under 100 permanent residents call the community of Maryhill home, but while it may seem like a place that is easy to overlook its natural beauty surely reveals why it is a great stop for any road traveller. Located in Klickitat County along the border with Oregon, stunning views of the Columbia River are never in short supply here and its vicinity to the greater River Gorge makes it an ideal spot to stop and enjoy the surroundings and the small town ambience. Meanwhile when not admiring the natural wonders, make sure to admire the human wonder of the Maryhill Stonehenge Monument. A replica of the world famous English monument, the Maryhill Stonehenge was constructed between 1918 and 1929 as a tribute to the fallen of the First World War. A full sized replication, this is indeed one of the most unique and moving roadside attractions in Washington State, that is beautifully accentuated by the always striking Columbia River in the backdrop.
Leavenworth
Beautifully located within the Cascade Mountain range, Leavenworth is a lovely town in Chelan County in central Washington. Formally established in the 1880s and now home to a modest population of just over 2,000 inhabitants, since the 1960s Leavenworth has transformed itself into a replica of a Bavarian mountain town. Indeed with its unique southern German architecture and loads of cultural restaurants, shops, and festivals, the feeling of Germany is alive in this special American town. Take in the sights and tastes of the annual Maifest and Oktoberfest, while men and women dressed in traditional lederhosen and other folk costumes create quite the memorable outing. Enjoy some authentic schnitzels, pretzels, and of course beer in the area, which boasts up to 20 distinct wineries and breweries!
Furthermore for the outdoors enthusiast, Leavenworth is also a great place to enjoy. Go mountain climbing, cycling, hiking, camping, and even river tubing in a most picturesque and lovely alpine setting. And with hot summers and cool winters, there is never a poor time to enjoy nature here.
Also known as the “Evergreen State”, Washington is a stunning place of natural beauty, cultural wonder, and historic intrigue. An important part of the Pacific Northwest region, although cities like Seattle and Olympia continue to spring to mind immediately when discussing the State, Washington also boasts a number of smaller and equally charming small towns that showcase the very best of America. From the stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge in Stevenson, Pacific Ocean vistas in Port Angeles and Port Townsend, and the historic and cultural allure of Walla Walla and Leavenworth, these and other darling Washington towns are awesome reminder of why the “Evergreen State” is a such a wonderful destination to enjoy a vacation, no matter one’s age.
