9 Towns in Washington With the Best Downtown Areas in 2024
Washington, also known as the Evergreen State, is a charming destination for all kinds of travelers. The state attracts people from all over, whether outdoor enthusiasts visiting the American Goldfinch and Mount St. Helens or urban tourists drawn to the major cities of Seattle and Spokane. Yet, Washington also boasts many small towns with thriving downtown areas. From the quaint town of Leavenworth and its bustling food scene to the coastal town of Anacortes and its lively “Bier on the Pier” Festival, there is excitement around every corner within the downtown areas of these nine small towns. Moreover, each town has something unique to share, from historical landmarks to waterside parks, perfect for a fun trip in 2024.
Leavenworth
The small town of Leavenworth, with just over two thousand permanent residents, is known for possessing a unique Bavarian theme. From quaint bed & breakfast inns like Haus Hanika to the German restaurants aligning Front Street, like Mozart’s and Colchuck’s, Leavenworth showcases a distinct Munich style rarely seen in the United States. There are also several shops amidst the eateries on Front Street, like Bushel & Bee Bottle Shop and Kris Kringl, which offers everything from rustic lodge art to German cuckoo clocks. Along with bustling stores, many festivals also take place in downtown Leavenworth, including the Autumn Leaf Festival. This event is held each September and offers a variety of tasty delicacies, a parade with the Royal Lady, and music in Front Street Park.
Friday Harbor
Located on San Juan Island, Friday Harbor is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Ode to its waterside location, the town is home to many watersports, including kayaking, fishing, and whale watching. Yet, this town of just under three thousand people also has a thriving downtown area. Most people head downtown for a meal after spending the day outdoors, and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Top dining choices in downtown Friday Harbor include Rocky Bay Cafe & Delicatessen and the Market Chef, offering delicious food and a vibrant ambiance. For those who can’t decide what to eat, November is the time to visit the town for the annual San Juan Island Restaurant Week. With tons of restaurants and a week of good food, it is a foodie's dream for a vacation in Washington.
Langley
The town of Langley, located on Whidbey Island, is a mix of natural allure and a flourishing downtown area. Visitors can walk along 1st Street to take advantage of various fun stories like the Whidbey Island Gem Gallery, complemented by views of the coast. Several restaurants and eateries also call downtown Langley home as well, including Spyhop Pub, the Braeburn Restaurant, and South Whidbey Commons, all of which can be found on 2nd Street. Known for being named the Village by the Sea, this town of just over a thousand people also presents some charming festivals, like Langley Lights the Night, which takes place after the 4th of July parade on the 6th. There is also the Mural Walk, which features over twenty-five murals, most of which are located in downtown Langley.
Snohomish
Known for its historic downtown district, the picturesque town of Snohomish, with a population of ten thousand people, is a growing, thriving place to visit. For history enthusiasts, it is home to several architectural wonders, like Everett Theater, which opened in 1901, and the Marysville Opera House, built in 1911. While the town may seem quite laid-back at first glance, it is also home to various downtown festivals, including Kla Ha Ya Days and the Kla Ha Ya Days Car Show in July. Moreover, several shops and restaurants in downtown Snohomish are well worth visiting, like My Eclectic Home and Andy’s Fish House, both located on 1st Street.
Anacortes
Situated on the northern end of Fidalgo Island, the town of Anacortes is known for natural attractions like Mt. Erie Park, Rosario Beach, and Washington Park. Yet, unbeknownst to many, this quaint, coastal town also features a thriving downtown area. This area is a hub of maritime culture and vibrance, with a plethora of great shops and restaurants, like the Red Snapper and the Red Door Thrift Shop, Rockfish Grill, and Adrift Restaurant. These outlets offer everything from fresh seafood to amazing antiques perfect for a souvenir. Tourists visiting in 2024 should also plan their trip for one of the many exhilarating festivals that occur downtown every year. Some of the most popular are the Anacortes Waterfront Festival every June, their 4th of July celebration and parade, and the “Bier on the Pier” festival in October.
Port Townsend
Two hours south of Anacortes lies the town of Port Townsend, a bustling destination with tons of culture to share. Those here for the downtown area are often pleased by the scenic streets, many boasting a view of the Pacific Ocean’s cascading waves. A short stroll through reveals plenty of mom-and-pop shops, galleries, and restaurants, such as Doc’s Marina Grill and the Alchemy Bistro. Plus, downtown Port Townsend hosts several festivals, including the Wooden Boat Festival every September. Those interested in local history also have a blast as the streets are lined with Victorian-style buildings, each with a unique tale to tell. For further information, one can check out local museums like the Port Townsend Marine Science Center & Aquarium and the Jefferson Museum of Art and History.
Roslyn
The town of Roslyn, situated just below Cle Elum Lake in Kittitas County, is a tranquil reprieve home to about a thousand people. While often overlooked, the town’s downtown area is a historic hub, and historical enthusiasts adore the 340-acre Roslyn Historic District. To this end, one can choose from an array of landmarks, such as the 1902 Roslyn City Hall, the 1889 Brick Saloon, and the 1935 Cle Elum State Bank. Those looking for a bite can spend some time at the Brick Saloon, which is known as Washington’s oldest continuously operating bar and still boasts delicious grub and live music. There are also several events in downtown Roslyn that cater to visitors as well as residents, like the Roslyn Mountain Ale Festival and the “Fans of Moosefest” fest, which is held in downtown Roslyn for “Northern Exposure” fans at the end of July.
Dayton
A few miles below Snake River and a few miles above the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness, Daytona is a town that shines for its heritage. The best part is that most of the town’s prominent landmarks are located downtown, offering easy access to a range of iconic sites. Some of the top spots are The Palus Museum, the Dayton Historic Depot, and the Boldman House Museum, boasting dozens of exhibits and thousands of artifacts between them. Later on, the nearby Columbia County Courthouse is perfect for a trip to the past, showcasing over 100 years of local history. After a historic tour, visitors can visit downtown Dayton's many shops and eateries, like Azure Mountain and Locally Nourished, both on East Main Street.
Lynden
The town of Lynden, located just south of the Canadian border, possesses a quaint, peaceful demeanor. Being the habitation of brightly-colored tulips and magnificent windmills, it is no wonder that this town has a downtown area that showcases a Dutch charm straight out of the Netherlands. Visitors interested in this side of town can start at the Lynden Heritage Museum, which portrays the town’s exciting past. Or, one can check out the traditional eateries downtown, like the Dutch Treat Restaurant and the Lynden Dutch Bakery. Downtown Lynden is also known for various festivals, including the Northwest Raspberry Festival and the Front Street Arts Festival, both held in July.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether you find yourself on the coast of the Pacific Ocean, up in the Cascade Mountain Range, or in a national forest like Wenatchee, every town you pass through has its own unique contribution to the state of Washington. Each downtown area, from Bavarian-themed Leavenworth to Dutch-themed Lynden, from Port Townsend and its Wooden Boat Festival to Anacortes and its Waterfront Festival, has its own taste of what it takes to have one of the best downtown areas in the Evergreen State.
