The Definitive Guide To Washington's Hidden Gems
Washington, the Evergreen State, is known for iconic skylines, like Seattle, but also for the Olympic mountain peaks that uphold the heavens. Its wild Pacific Northwest side is what many adventurers dream of through national parks like North Cascades and Mount Rainier. Home to the rainiest town and the birthplace of Starbucks, the state proudly carries the name of the nation's first president.
The expansive wildernesses bounding the Pacific and islands stranded in the ocean hide towns for every taste. Cosmopolis is an intriguing riverfront city, the oldest on Grays Harbor. Whether you're craving the mountains, lakes, or the ocean, the adventurous state has a story to tell through its hidden gems. These eight reward you along the less traveled path with experiences year-round.
Chelan
Chelan inspires a luxurious lakeside escape without being expansive or overcommercialized. Often overlooked on the lake's central east coast, just west of the Columbia River, the exclusive feel is amplified by low tourist crowds. With four seasons of wine and adventures during 300 days of sunshine, tune into the surrounding alpine beauty around the lake, the state's largest, longest, and deepest, snaking over 50 miles through the Cascade Mountains. Chelan attracts water babies and sightseers along the lush trails with peaky vistas. The range of accommodations sets you up against the views and mountain adventures, plus shopping and dining downtown.
Surrounded by expansive alpine forests, Lake Chelan State Park features campsites, while Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest sprawls for 1.7 million acres. You can shortcut to both without driving around the lake via a personal boat or a tour in town. From the beaches to the marina, the crystal-clear lake sparkles daringly at the boaters, swimmers, and jet skiers. You can indulge in wine tastings at local wineries anytime or visit in the harvest months. The temperatures hold up until October when colorful foliage shimmers in the pristine water. A cozy lakeside bed-and-breakfast or a campsite really complements the tranquil vibe and adventurous spirit of this picturesque lakeside gem.
Cosmopolis
If you've never heard of this small community with a colossal personality, you're not alone. Strangely overlooked along the western bend of the Chehalis River, where it enters North Bay to the west, Cosmopolis is the oldest city in Grays Harbor. Incorporated in 1891, it offers memorable town greens, cafes, and a spectacular golf course right across the river from Junction City. So secure your belongings at the top-rated River Run RV Park and hop off exploring the charming city of under 1,200. Starting on a stroll through the dog-friendly Makarenko Park. The Mill Creek adds a lace of charm in the east.
Take the Cozy Trail, or enjoy a riverfront picnic at Lions Park with a children's playground. The nearby Cosmopolis Treaty Grounds, a historical marker, is right along the way to one of the delicious eateries serving international flavors. There's also a boat launch in town to explore up the river or down into the bay, plus a quick drive east to Preachers Slough West Trailhead, a quiet hiking area with parking and another boat ramp. You can visit Arctic just south along Hwy 101 and stop at Clarks Restaurant, a statewide recognition for hamburgers, milkshakes, plus biscuits and gravy. Seemingly modest, Cosmopolis hides its monumental pride in the name, which means "city of the world."
Eastsound
Eastsound is the largest urban center on Orcas Island, often overlooked for Friday Harbor on the main namesake and largest island of the San Juan archipelago. This gem offers the cozy feel of an overlooked coastal village, rich in arts, history, and culinary prowess, where you can rent a bike or a sea kayak to explore the island. From whale-watching to kayaking, boat tours depart to explore the San Juan and Canadian Gulf islands. The landbound adventurers enjoy hikes like Mt. Constitution and Turtleback Mountain, dominating on either side. Bustling along the walkable streets with galleries and boutiques, browse paintings, ceramics, photography, and fiber art before a play or a concert.
Strolling along the village homes and buildings from the 1880s, art at Village Green, stop by the farmers’ market and history museum. The latter hosts island artifacts and photos, doubling up as an event host of the annual Historical Day Fair and Parade in July and a springtime tour of the Island’s B&B historic lodgings. Just north, the Funhouse Commons offers interactive kids' exhibits on science, sports, geography, and more, while the Chamber Music Festival takes place in August. From Northwest to Southwest cuisine to simple pub fare and fine dining, many cafes feature organic, island-grown food, are family-friendly, and offer views over Fishing Bay.
La Conner
This beloved gem in the state hosts regular festivals under the persistent sunshine over the Skagit Valley. From the renowned Tulip Festival to its own daffodil festival in March against the Mt. Baker backdrop, watch the July 4th waterfront view of La Conner’s fireworks display. The creative town draws many for the Classic Boat and Car Show in August, plus summer weekend concerts at Gilkey Square. Visit during the Arts Alive! in November, which will chase away seasonal blues before the Holiday Lighted Boat Parade in December. Channel View Farms lines their beautiful, flower-filled basket creations along Morris & First St. from mid-May through Labor Day.
Offering four seasons of outdoor fun, many enjoy views along the Swinomish Channel with a picnic below the Rainbow Bridge at Conner Waterfront Park. Beautiful trumpeter swans and snow geese swim by from October through April. Home to wildlife like seals, bald eagles, great blue herons, and otters, you can explore the lush valley and visit the oldest European birch tree on the West Coast, planted in 1890. Pay honors at Pioneer Park by the Louisa Ann Conner memorial, while La Conner Marina displays a photogenic set of classic, new, and used boats. You can explore the channel in a kayak from the boat ramp and paddle out to Goat Island. For less strain, take the nearby Cascade Loop.
Langley
Langley is a real stud on Whidbey Island, boasting stunning views of Puget Sound from South Whidbey Harbor. On the island's southeastern edge, it is often overlooked for Coupeville. The area is full of wild adventures to explore under the sun through the treetops, lighting your path ahead. From South Whidbey Community Park to the Trustland Trails, it is gorgeous, peaceful, and even inspiring through northwest woodland. Cozy cafés and gourmet restaurants line the streets alongside the local Langley Museum of Mini-Art (MoMA). Langley Whale Center offers marine mammal education on local orcas and whales, with a library and a gift shop.
The coastal town is captivated by its artistic spirit in a tranquil atmosphere, including the highly regarded Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, a cultural venue with regular shows and seasonal events. Outcast Productions offers an up-close and personal experience during a performance in a cool red barn setting. Langley makes it easy to feel at home in a peaceful coastal setting and get the real feel for its rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of island community lifestyle. Both exciting yet relaxing, from the sunrise over Puget Sound from Seawall Park to dinner at Saltwater Fish House & Oyster Bar, visitors can also enjoy easy access to Hat Island with its own marina.
Leavenworth
Boasting transcending scenery and cultural details, this town wasn't always thriving. Having embraced its German roots as a redemption to hardships, the Bavarian-inspired village in the Cascades transports you overseas with authentic architecture and culinary delights, plus one of the nation's best Oktoberfests. Whether you're in for a lively event with traditional music, dress, and dance, on a memorable summer vacation, or a holiday escape, the mountainous glory, unique shopping, and all-season trails follow through. From Icicle Ridge Trailhead to the Enchantment Park at the heart, surprise the little ones and delight the kid in you at Leavenworth Reindeer Farm.
From riverside strolls along the Wenatchee River to thrilling water adventures, achieve amazing scenery without the work via the mountain coaster downtown before unwinding at a local brewery. You can taste the local craft anytime with lower crowds and the same attractions. Alive with the sights and sounds of Bavarian culture, Leavenworth tantalizes all your senses. The rather remote location and European charm are amplified on a magical holiday escape. Leavenworth bedazzles as a winter destination, shining with festive lights and local cheer within the mountain creases and white peaks. Complete your idyllic mountain retreat at a cozy accommodation like the Storybook Riverside Inn.
Naches
This shining gem at the foothills of the Cascades lights up the path to some of the state's best hiking trails. Offering great proximity to both the West Coast and Mount Rainier National Park, Naches is ideal for adventures on both land and water, like the Naches Peak Hiking Trail, with scenic views of the Cascades. The pristine surroundings and a laid-back atmosphere cater to a care- and crowd-free remote getaway. Experience its rich agricultural heritage by welcoming local orchards and farms for fresh produce, including apples, cherries, pears, and other fruits. A simple riverside stroll with opportunities for fishing, rafting, kayaking, and even skiing makes Naches a quintessential PNW town.
From warm-weather adventures for every level, like Tieton Nature Trail, Bear Creek Mountain, Goat Peak, and Crystal Lake, Naches welcomes the wintering birds as a gateway to the White Pass Ski Area. Sitting along the Naches River, it stays quiet here even in the high season, June through October, with just under 1,100 residents tending to an après scene of local shops and businesses. Don't miss the Naches Fruit Stand, the local favorite Laredo Drive-In, and the Naches Trading Post. The town remains an overlooked tourist spot, charming visitors with its unique personality. Indulge in a slow-paced, riverside lifestyle and commemorate it across the Tieton Nature Trail Suspension Bridge.
Westport
At the mouth of Grays Harbor, Westport feels both cozy and freeing against the open ocean views, just over two hours southwest of Seattle. On Point Chehalis, Light State Park sprawls along the coast with accessible hiking trails and saltwater fishing. Enjoy similar views along Westport Jetty, Westport Viewing Tower, and Bennett's Fish Shack. You can begin a quaint morning on a stroll through Westport's Marina District, watching the fishing boats depart. Purchase the freshest catch or hop on a fishing charter yourself. From whale-watching tours to crabbing, the legacy of Westport's rich marine heritage attracts global fishers and seafood lovers.
Offering world-class fleets and dining spots, the charming local shops and restaurants carry fantastic salmon, halibut, rock and ling cod, crab, and albacore tuna. Westport is idyllic to disconnect, browse, and indulge at an outdoor cafe soaking up the vibe. In addition, the consistency of surfable waves and convenient access make Westport a surfing mecca, among the most popular in Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia, with three main surf breaks for every level, from beginner to advanced. Boasting dreamy miles of scenic beaches, find a sweet spot with whales at the horizon lit up by sunset, with a four-legged friend at your side on the beach, outdoor dining, and many hotels.
Unveiling Washington’s Most Distinctive Small Towns
Strewn along the coast, in the mountain creases, and on wild islands, these are some of the nation's most unique small towns. Often overlooked through no fault of their own, the surrounding PNW landscape feels like unexplored territory. It is a dream for some to get lost in the wild and escapade; others approach it with cautious curiosity.
But the fruitful orchards of Naches and the serene lakeside Chelan cater alike to families on a quiet retreat and adventurers. From wine tasting to hiking in the great outdoors, boating, and fishing, the small towns reveal a unique side of Washington, with history and culture, including Bavarian charm in Leavenworth.
