The 10 Friendliest Little Towns In Washington
Washington might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of hospitable states, but you would be surprised to learn how friendly some of its small towns are. Many stay busy with cultural festivals, like the Ferry County Fair in Republic and the quirky Trashion Show in Twisp. Others, like Leavenworth, embrace a lively German spirit that makes visitors feel welcome all year long. If you are looking for a warm and rejuvenating getaway, these 10 towns are sure to leave you in good spirits.
Leavenworth
The Bavarian town of Leavenworth offers a cultural experience like none other in Washington. During the month of May, the town hosts its annual Maifest celebration, which features unique events like an International Alphorn Festival, chainsaw carving demonstrations, and a Mai Blumenlauf Run throughout the month. There are several German restaurants to try while in town, such as München Haus, a Bavarian grill with an excellent selection of sausages and beer. Travelers who will be in Leavenworth in the summer months can attend one of the Leavenworth Summer Theater performances, which include The Sound of Music, Carousel, and The Little Mermaid this year.
Winthrop
Travelers can put their cowboy hats on and get ready for a western experience in Winthrop! Each Memorial Day and Labor Day Weekend, the Methow Valley Horsemen put on a rodeo, which features a weekend full of bulls, barrel racing, and ranch bronc riding. Afterwards, visitors can grab a drink at Three Fingered Jack’s Saloon, the oldest legal saloon in the state. Those hoping to go horseback riding can arrange an excursion with Sun Mountain Lodge, where expert wranglers will lead riders through the scenic Cascade Mountains, surrounded by wildflower meadows and forests.
Republic
Despite being home to just 1,000 residents, the community of Republic always seems to be throwing some sort of annual event. Each June, the town celebrates its gold-mining heritage with the annual Prospector’s Days event, which includes festivities like a soap box derby, a costume contest, a horseshoe tournament, and a parade. To experience the agricultural community’s spirit, consider attending the Ferry County Fair in August, which has been taking place for over 80 years and features a variety of livestock competitions and horse performances. The Goat Farm - Goat Patrol is another family-friendly attraction to check out, home to 40 goats of various breeds, offering tours by appointment.
Roslyn
Designated a National Historic District in 1978, the rural town of Roslyn has retained much of its mining heritage, with shafts, coal sheds, and slag piles still scattered throughout the area today. Each Labor Day weekend, the town gathers for its annual Coal Miner Days, which celebrates its coal mining past through a commemorative dinner, live music, food, and more. The Croatian Picnic each July is another interesting cultural activity, which showcases the state’s Croatian culture through live music, food, games, and more. If these cultural festivals have piqued your interest in Roslyn’s history, consider stopping by the Roslyn Historical Museum, which is open on Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11:00 to 3:00 pm.
Coupeville
Situated on Whidbey Island and just a two-hour drive from Seattle, Coupeville could not feel more different from the city. Local seafood restaurants like The Oystercatcher prepare dishes daily using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring the freshest food and fish. For a hospitable place to stay, consider spending the night at the Anchorage Inn, which offers guests breakfast each morning and beautiful views of the Coupeville Wharf. Travelers who will be visiting in August can attend the Coupeville Arts and Crafts Festival, which attracts artists from around the Pacific Northwest to exhibit their handmade arts and crafts downtown.
Friday Harbor
While Friday Harbor is largely known for its whale watching, visitors may be surprised to discover its equally impressive art and cultural scene. The San Juan Islands Museum of Art is a beautiful place to learn about the region’s art, home to rotating exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, drawings, photography, and more. To get an authentic feel for the town’s traditions, travelers can attend the San Juan County Fair in August, which features a diverse schedule of livestock shows, outhouse races, art vendors, and food vendors. Those looking for a place to spend the night have plenty of friendly inns to pick from, such as The Tucker House Inn, a historic property that was built in 1898.
Eastsound
Eastsound has a rich and inviting culinary scene to explore. Visitors must make sure to dine at Matia Kitchen, which offers an innovative, 10-course tasting menu that changes daily depending on ingredient availability. For something a bit more casual, travelers can also grab a bite at The West Side Kitchen, which serves sandwiches and Asian cuisine. On the weekend of May 29th, visitors can experience the OrcasFest Eastsound Music Ramble, a community celebration featuring folk music and lots of square dancing! Tickets are available for single days or the full weekend.
La Conner
La Conner is home to three nationally recognized museums, making it a welcoming destination to explore its history. Visitors can start their museum tour at the Skagit County Historical Museum, which showcases two permanent exhibits that encapsulate Skagit life. Afterwards, head over to the Museum of Northwest Art to view an art collection that includes over 2,500 contemporary artworks. Those interested in quilting will appreciate the Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum, meanwhile, which is home to a permanent collection of quilts and textiles that date back as far as 1820. To experience some of La Conner’s culture live, visitors should visit La Conner during the annual Daffodil Festival, which takes place in March. The event celebrates the 500 acres of blooming daffodils that brighten the region each spring. All month long, visitors can purchase freshly picked daffodils to take home!
Twisp
As the smallest certified arts district in Washington, Twisp offers a rich mix of live performances, artist studios, and arts education opportunities. If you are craving an evening at the theater, consider grabbing tickets for a show at the Merc Playhouse. Upcoming shows at this community theater include Our Town and The Little Prince. The Confluence Gallery is another great way to get a taste for Twisp’s art community, which has been showcasing local and regional art since 1988. On May 31st, the gallery will be hosting the Trashion Show, in which designers of varying skill levels show off their outfits that they creatively made with recycled materials!
Sequim
Sequim has been celebrating as a community for over a century and is proudly home to the Sequim Irrigation Festival, which is the longest-running festival in Washington. What began in the late 19th century as a celebration of newly built irrigation ditches has grown into one of Sequim’s most cherished traditions, featuring a royalty pageant, parade, dancing, live music, and a crafts fair. Travelers should also plan their visit to town during Sequim Lavender Weekend, which takes place in July. Throughout the weekend, various farms open to the public, and the town hosts a beloved lavender festival in the park. Those looking for a place to lodge during the festivals can stay at the welcoming Olympic Railway Inn, a themed hotel made up of 10 cozily decorated cabooses!
Final Thoughts
If you are interested in experiencing some of Washington’s most authentic cultural activities, these 10 towns are a great place to start. You can put on your cowboy boots and grab a seat at the Winthrop Rodeo, or cozy up for the night at a local inn, such as The Tucker House Inn in Friday Harbor. No matter the time of year you visit these towns, you are sure to be greeted by friendly faces and a big welcome.
