No matter the time of year, we’re always in need of a fun-filled getaway now and again. Thanks to the many incredible destinations surrounding the city, it’s easy to take a last-minute day trip from Seattle that doesn’t require weeks of advance planning, a day’s worth of driving, or even overnight lodging. Many of these destinations can be reached by ferry, train or other forms of public transportation so you don’t have to worry about directions and parking. Whether you’re in the mood for solitude in nature, the hustle and bustle of a city, or some small-town charm and friendliness, there’s a day trip here for you.
Here are the top places for a fun and easy day trip from Seattle:
1. Port Angeles, WA
Port Angeles is a small waterfront city that sits at the northern edge of the Olympic Peninsula, looking out over the Salish Sea. Although downtown Port Angeles is charming and worth a visit on its own, it’s really known for being the perfect launch pad for visiting Olympic National Park.
📍Getting there: Port Angeles is about a three-hour drive from Seattle, although part of that travel time will be spent on the scenic Seattle-Bainbridge ferry if you take the most direct route.
✨Things to do: Get an early start so you can stop for coffee at the charming Pegasus Coffee House on Bainbridge Island. Pick up lunch in Port Angeles and then take it with you on the short drive to the stunning Lake Crescent. You can sit in Adirondack chairs and admire the lake, or explore one of the many hiking trails in the area such as the Spruce Railroad trail or the Barnes Creek trail leading to Marymere Falls. Alternatively you could instead go for a hike in the lush Hoh Rainforest which is about an hour or so away from Lake Crescent and is worth a visit year-round. On your way home, you can stop once again in Port Angeles or Bainbridge for dinner.
2. Vashon Island
Vashon Island is a peaceful paradise stuck in time. Adjacent to Seattle, it has no connection to the mainland. The only way to get to Vashon is by ferry or boat. Once you’re there, the stress of the city will melt away as you enjoy the restorative balm of nature and small-town living.
📍Getting there: It takes about 20 minutes to get to Vashon via the Fauntleroy ferry in West Seattle. You can walk onto the ferry or drive on. It is important to note that it’s easiest to get around the island with a car or a bike. Also keep in mind that the ferry is first-come-first-served and there can be a long line on weekends.
✨Things to do: Although Vashon enjoys a slower pace of living, there is plenty of fun and exploring to be had there. For food, drink, galleries, and shopping, check out the downtown hub of the island. (Just follow Vashon Highway SW from the ferry terminal for five miles—you’ll know you’re downtown when you start passing through the cluster of shops and eateries). You’ll also find several wineries and breweries on the island if you’re in the mood for a tasting or two. Head over to the connected Maury Island to see the historic Point Robinson Lighthouse.
🍓Hot tip: If you visit in July, you can catch the highly-anticipated annual Strawberry Festival. The 2025 Strawberry Festival in Vashon runs from July 18 to July 20 so mark your calendar now.
3. Bainbridge Island
Bainbridge Island is the better-known version of Vashon. You’ll find the same peaceful expanse of nature, but perhaps a little bit more to do.
📍Getting there: The easiest way to get to Bainbridge Island is by taking the 35-minute ferry from downtown Seattle. You can walk on or bring your car or bike. If you’re walking, the main downtown hub of the island is a short stroll from the ferry dock. Alternatively, you can drive to the island: there is a bridge that connects Bainbridge to the Kitsap Peninsula on the north end.
✨Things to do: There’s something for everyone on Bainbridge. If you’re in search of culture, there are several fascinating museums to explore. There are gorgeous beaches, parks, and hiking trails for the outdoorsy set. If you’d like to leave with a few souvenirs, there’s plenty of shopping to do. And, of course, Bainbridge is known for its cuisine. Be sure to visit one of its stellar restaurants or wineries. If you just want someone else to set the itinerary for you, consider signing up for Tour Bainbridge.
4. Whidbey Island
Considered one of the better-kept secrets in the Puget Sound, the 50-mile long Whidbey Island is essentially a collection of small, charming harbor towns.
📍Getting there: To get to Whidbey Island, take a 20-minute ferry from the Mukilteo ferry terminal north of Seattle. You can also drive about two hours north of Seattle and get to Whidbey by crossing the Deception Pass Bridge (pictured above).
✨Things to do: Did you know the iconic witch movie Practical Magic was filmed on Whidbey Island? Check out our guide to seeing the Practical Magic locations! You can also go hiking, kayaking, or take one of the many Whidbey Island tours. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, there are lots of charming island eateries and breweries waiting to serve you.
5. Snoqualmie Falls
The above scene may be familiar to you if you’ve ever watched the popular TV show Twin Peaks. The Snoqualmie Falls is one of Washington State’s most famous attractions, with 1.5 million annual visitors.
📍Getting there: Snoqualmie Falls is only 29 miles from downtown Seattle. It is easiest to get there by car.
✨Things to do: Once you’ve checked out the view of the 270-foot falls via the observation deck, you can explore the gift shop and go on a hike through the two-acre park. If you make an appointment ahead of time, you can enjoy the many relaxing amenities at the spa at the Salish Lodge. There is also dining and entertainment at the nearby Snoqualmie Casino. If you’re a Twin Peaks fan, check out our guide to the perfect Twin Peaks day trip from Seattle.
6. Bellingham, WA
This coastal city near the Canadian border is known for its waterfront port, breweries and outdoor recreation. If you love kayaking, you should know that Bellingham was named “Best Paddling Destination in the US” by Outside Magazine.
📍Getting there: It takes about an hour and a half to drive to Bellingham from Seattle. You can also take a train via Amtrak.
✨Things to do: Beaches, scenic hiking trails, and outdoor adventures are plentiful in Bellingham. Alternatively you can sign up for the Culture Crawl quest and visit a series of galleries, museums, and theaters. And, of course, be sure to indulge in the many delicious restaurants and breweries in Bellingham.
7. Leavenworth, WA
Everyone in Seattle knows about Leavenworth (if you don’t, you must be new here). This Bavarian-styled village in the Cascade Mountains is typically most popular in the fall and winter months thanks to Oktoberfest and Christmas celebrations, but it is bustling year-round.
📍Getting there: Leavenworth is about a two-to-three hour drive from Seattle. There is also a three-hour Amtrak train ride that you can take if you prefer not to drive through the snowy mountains.
✨Things to do: There is so much to do in Leavenworth and in the surrounding area, whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor adventurer, or a connoisseur of wine and craft beer. You can have hours of fun simply by strolling through the charming Old-World Bavarian village that is packed with German restaurants and quaint shops, plus the famous Nutcracker Museum. There is also easy access to skiing, white water rafting, and more outdoor recreation. See our full guide to visiting Leavenworth!
8. Victoria, B.C.
Known as the City of Gardens, Victoria is the capitol of British Columbia and is beloved for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Although it would be ideal to make a full weekend out of it, you can take advantage of the day trip schedule offered by Clipper Vacations.
📍Getting there: You can take the Clipper Vacation Ferry from Seattle to get to Victoria; the trip takes just under three hours.
✨Things to do: Be sure to visit Craigdarroch Castle, the Royal BC Museum, Fisherman’s Wharf, Butchart Gardens and the Parliament Buildings (open to the public for free tours). For food and drink, stroll along Inner Harbor; for shopping, visit historic Government Street. Finally, afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel is a century-old tradition that you can enjoy during the summer months.
9. Mount Rainier National Park
You can’t live in Washington state and not visit Mount Rainier National Park at least once. One of the oldest and most-visited national parks, it boasts stunning fall colors in the autumnal months, waterfalls, fields full of wildflowers in the spring and summer, and even an inland rainforest.
📍Getting there: From Seattle, it takes about two hours to drive to the southwest Nisqually entrance of Mount Rainier National Park. You can also arrange shuttle service ahead of time, which is ideal for larger groups or those without a car. The easiest way to do a day trip to the park, however, is by booking a tour. These ten-hour tours will pick you up in downtown Seattle and then guide you through some of the highlights of the park, including Christine Falls, the Nisqually River and Narada Falls.
✨Things to do: Other than the obvious activity of hiking, there are lots of ways to experience the beauty of Mount Rainier National Park. You can zipline through the forest, take a scenic gondola ride, go back in time to the Pioneer Farm Museum, or take in stunning 360-degree views on Suntop Lookout.
10. Enumclaw, WA
Not far from Mount Rainier National Park is the charming small town of Enumclaw, WA.
📍Getting there: Enumclaw is about an hour’s drive away from Seattle.
✨Things to do: The main reason why we’re recommending Enumclaw for a day trip is the Summit House Restaurant at Crystal Mountain Resort. This is the highest-elevation restaurant in Washington! To get there, you take a ride up 2,500 feet on the Mount Rainier Gondola. Then you can dine with incredible views of Mount Rainier while feeling like you’re in Switzerland. On your way home, you can spend some time in Enumclaw’s historic downtown which is full of charming shops plus breweries and wineries.
11. Tacoma, WA
Sometimes you want to get away from your city but you’re not an outdoorsy person. In that case, why not refresh your scenery by visiting a different city? Tacoma is a short drive away from Seattle so it’s easy to go and spend a day sightseeing, finish up with a nice dinner, and be back home well before midnight.
📍Getting there: From Seattle, take I-5 S for about 40 minutes. There are also public transportation options. You can take a bus, train, or ferry to Tacoma from Seattle; see the details here.
✨Things to do: Tacoma is a great place to visit if you love breweries, farm-to-table cuisine and waterfront dining. If you love to shop, swing by the section of downtown called Antiques Row that is dedicated to antique and vintage sellers. Immerse yourself in culture by visiting the Theater District or the Museum District. Tacoma is also known for its glass art. The Chihuly Bridge of Glass is a must-see.