9 Towns in Washington With Thriving Local Businesses
The picturesque, rainy state of Washington along the United States West Coast is as charming as it is thrilling. There is never a dull moment, whether you are exploring the great outdoors and the Pacific Ocean, spotting wildlife, or becoming entranced by the small towns throughout. And in these small towns, you can find some of the most delightful, friendly, and thriving local businesses. Feel good about supporting small businesses while treating yourself to delicately handmade goods and absolutely delicious creations in these thriving Washington towns.
Leavenworth
Start your mornings off with a bang with the scrumptious cafes located throughout the German-inspired town of Leavenworth. Feel like you are in Europe without evening leaving the country at places such as The Gingerbread Factory, where you can munch on cakes and desserts such as cookies and custom gingerbread houses. At Crepe Cafe Sisters, sip on drip coffee, lattes, and espresso while treating yourself to delicious crepes. At O'Gradys Pantry, located inside the Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort, you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as filling smoothies and hot coffee on a winter day.
Want to bring something unique to your vacation? Stop by Bushel and Bee, where you can choose from dozens of fun and local ciders, beers, and meads. Das Thrift Haus has your outfit covered with their curated selection of gently used clothing, household items, and treasures. And a portion of their profits go toward Upper Valley Mend, which supports food pantries, affordable housing, and healthcare. If you're a bookworm, you will absolutely love A Book For All Seasons, where you can find not only books but awesome gifts as well.
At Cured By Visconti, show up with the fanciest charcuterie board your friends have ever seen with their selection of sausage, salami, jerky, and pre-made boards. And if you love cheese, Cheesemongers Shop carries only the finest, as well as hot sauces, meats, crackers, mustards, jellies, and accessories.
Snohomish
The quaint town of Snohomish is located just outside Seattle, making it easy to get to and enjoy everything it has to offer.
Start the day off right by pulling up to House of Brews, a tiny walk-up and drive-thru coffee joint, so you can get on with what you need to do. To stay longer and cozy up with a good book, try Looking Glass Coffee, which is situated in a historic building that also serves as a community and event space with an attached gift shop. And for those craving a delicious sandwich, head to Java Haus Cafe, a coffee shop in a tiny red barn that serves sandwiches, soup, Italian soda, milkshakes, and so much more.
If you are on the lookout for some amazing teas, check out Everything Tea, where you can pick up loose and packaged teas, sweeteners, and accessories to make the perfect cup. For the perfect gift, or to explore your spiritual side, Little Shop of Light sells everything from books and candles to crystals, essential oils, and everything metaphysical. And when your home needs a refresh or some decorations for the holidays, The Country Cupboard carries home decor, antiques, and furniture.
When the pantry feels empty, and you are craving some delicious treats, the Snohomish Farmers Market brings together the town's best vendors, selling everything from artisanal goods to freshly baked desserts. And when your meal needs an extra boost of flavor, A Bit of Taste carries the finest olive oils, vinegar, honey, salts, and seasonings.
Dayton
Nestled by the mountains and close to both the Oregon and Idaho borders, Dayton is a charming town with lots of treasures.
At Moose Creek Cafe and Bakery, try one of their fresh donuts or sandwiches, as well as desserts like cookies and pastries, amongst quirky decor. Locally Nourished crafts its menu from locally sourced ingredients and offers delicious pies, bagels, and more in a welcoming, open interior. Adventure Espresso is a hidden gem surrounded by an industrial area, with amazing frappes, smoothies, matcha, and more.
If you take self-care seriously and also want handmade or ethically sourced products, Biker B's Bathworks sells soaps, bath supplies, and even pet grooming supplies. For wonderful bouquets for any occasion, Paige's Floral and Gifts has you covered with beautiful flowers and home decor, and is owned by a mother-daughter team. Those with a sweet tooth that needs satisfying, head to Vikki's Sweet Shoppe, which carries unique sodas, nostalgic candies, ice cream, desserts, and chocolates.
Pick up all the essentials at Blue Mountain Station, from artisan food and produce to body care and liquor. Steve's Cash Grocery is a bit more low-key but has everything you need from snacks and drinks to fresh produce.
Long Beach
Right on the Pacific Ocean and the Oregon border, Long Beach has miles of sand and rocks perfect for strolling and enjoying everything the ocean has to offer. It also is a great place for thriving local businesses, with yummy coffee, shopping, and everything in between.
At Dylan's Cottage Bakery, make sure to savor a delicious cinnamon bun with your coffee. They also have cakes, pies, fresh-baked bread, donuts, and more. Kraken Cafe is a cozy joint that features a craft station so you and your little ones can explore their creativity. Beach Bubble Tea has an adorable blue and white color scheme and carries all your favorite flavors while also offering mouth-watering snack options.
Explore the shop's impressive nautical theme while browsing antiques and handmade goods at The Pirates Keep. For all your sweet needs, Long Beach Candy Company carries not just candy but fudge, an insane amount of jellybeans, and even an M&M dispenser. NiVA Green is a charming boutique with handmade jewelry, cute home decor, and body care.
For groceries, head to Columbia Pacific Farmers Market, where you can find everything from baked goods and produce to pet supplies, meats, and more. Or find V's Coastal Market and Deli, which has an assortment of items, as well as freshly made sandwiches.
Gig Harbor
With stunning views of Puget Sound and only a short trip from Tacoma, Gig Harbor is an adorable beach town with no shortage of locally owned businesses.
Kimball Coffeehouse is the place to be for live music and events, so you can support the creative community while sipping on a drink. At Java and Clay Cafe, get artsy and paint pottery either with friends or by yourself. Susanne's Bakery will keep you fed with delicious sandwiches, fresh bread, and sweet treats like cake.
If you want to try a new recipe but need something not found in an everyday grocery store, For the Love of Spice might have just what you need with their selection of balsamic vinegars, olive oils, and spice blends. At Gig Harbor Book Company, browse the shelves full of gently used books while your kids explore the lovely children's section. Afterward, head to Rosedale Gardens and get your balcony or patio looking its best with plants, home decor, art, and pottery for sale.
Local Boys has your grocery run covered with their store full of fruit, liquor, syrups, preserves, honey, produce, meat and seafood, and even kettle corn. Short on time? Pick up a ready-made meal or something quick and easy at Finholms Market and Grocery.
Arlington
With its close proximity to Burlington and Seattle, enjoying everything Arlington has to offer is quick, easy, and totally worth it.
Start the day with coffee or perhaps a frappe at Caffe Pronto, a tiny drive-thru inside a red house so you can get on with exploring. If you are hoping to take time to relax, there is lots of seating, delicious cinnamon buns, and premade meals at Stilly Coffee House. The Speckled Cow is a small barn-shaped coffeehouse with an insane amount of flavors, so you can make your drink perfect.
Once you have been caffeinated, hit the shops with a stop at Bits N' Pieces, a secondhand store with furniture, toys, home decor, and so much more. Country Rose carries the cutest clothing, home decor, and kitchen supplies. Sassafras Vintage and Gifts has hundreds of treasures, from jewelry to antiques, to clothing.
Support and meet the locals at the Arlington Farmers Market, or try something new at El Padrino Tienda Mexicana, featuring fantastic imported goods either for meal making or snacking.
Port Townsend
Right near three major areas, including Puget Sound, San Juan Islands, and the Pacific Ocean, Port Townsend is a beautiful oceanside town with magnificent views and equally magnificent businesses.
Sample Port Townsend Roasting Co's delicious coffee as well as some gluten-free treats at Better Living Through Coffee. For amazing views, Hudson Point Cafe looks out onto the harbor so you can watch the ships sail by while sipping your morning cup of joe. When the sun is shining, The Courtyard Cafe has an adorable outdoor patio where you can chow down on sandwiches, baked goods, and pastries.
If you have a birthday party or holiday coming up for a child in your life, Whistle Stop Toys carries only the best, from fun and adventurous toys to educational toys and books. On a rainy afternoon, spend the day browsing the Port Townsend Antique Mall and bring home some treasures. Are guests visiting? Delight them with a rare bottle of wine bought from The Wine Seller, where you can even attend fun tasting events.
Charcuterie boards are a breeze with Getables, a gourmet grocery shop that sells cheeses, smoked meats, specialty foods, wine, chocolates, gifts, and even decor. For even more of a selection, so you can really go all out, Lively Olive Tasting Bar has pick-your-own olives, balsamic, oils, pasta, spreads, and sauces.
Friday Harbor
Friday Harbor is a picturesque island and is a part of the San Juan cluster of Islands that is only accessible by ferry.
After arriving, leave the ferry terminal and walk right over to San Juan Island Roasters, a coffee shop conveniently located right next to the port. The following morning, enjoy the stellar views at Salty Fox Coffee while munching on some fresh baked goods. Or if you are in a rush, the drive-thru at Friday Harbor Espresso has you covered, and even features picnic table seating.
If you have always dreamed of finding a place where you can pick out a new book while also immediately sitting down for a coffee, Griffin Bay Bookstore and Cafe can make that dream come true. Gift giving is easy with The Toy Box, a cute little shop with tons of stuffed animals, board games, and more. For the adults, Island Wine Company carries both local and imported finds as well as gifts and offers tastings so you can try them before you buy.
At Friday Harbor Market Place, enjoy the full-service grocery store so you can grab all the essentials needed for your trip. For a unique dinner, stop by the Seafood Market, where you can purchase fresh crab, fish, prawns, and more.
Blaine
Right on the Canadian/US border, you can easily access Blaine from Vancouver by passing through the Peace Arch Border, or by taking Interstate 5 in the United States up past Bellingham.
Stop by Aloha Cafe, which combines Asian and Hawaiian cuisines, offering mochi waffles, shaved ice, milk teas, and boba. For those in a rush, such as those planning to cross the border, Blackbird Coffee is a tiny drive-thru cafe. At Semiahmoo Marina Cafe, enjoy the stellar views of the marina and surrounding park from the outdoor seating, or go for a sip and stroll along the walking paths.
Horseshoe Coins and Antiques is the place to go to find that missing piece of your collection or some eclectic home decor. Blaine Bouquets makes events, seasonal decorating, and gift-giving easy with flowers, plants, and home decor. Craving ice cream and fresh milk? Edaleen Dairy is locally made and locally owned.
Check out Living Pantry for the best bath and body care, home care, and essential oils, bulk foods, spices, herbs, and teas. For delicious grocery items and seafood, give Market by the Sea a try, with its convenient location right by the marina.
Washington is so much more than towering mountains and crashing waves, though those are some magnificent highlights. It's a place of community and fabulous local shops and restaurants ready to welcome you with open arms. Just make sure to pack a raincoat, plenty of shopping bags, and a camera so you can capture the beauty of this coastal state and its thriving local businesses.
