Did you know you can easily visit the setting of Twin Peaks from Seattle?
If you loved the iconic TV show by David Lynch (RIP) and you live in or near Seattle, we have good news for you: you’re in a prime location to experience it for yourself. Much of the show’s setting that you see on-screen is only about a 30-minute drive from Seattle! We put together a guide to the most essential Twin Peaks locations that you can visit in a short day trip from Seattle.
Looking for the perfect time to go? February 24 is Twin Peaks Day. It is the day that FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper first arrives in the town of Twin Peaks, as he narrates below in the pilot episode:
Diane, 11:30 AM, February 24th. Entering the town of Twin Peaks, five miles south of the Canadian border, twelve miles west of the state line. I’ve never seen so many trees in my life.
Read on for the full itinerary for a Twin Peaks day trip!
1. See the Snoqualmie Falls
First up, you’ll want to drive the 28 miles from Seattle to see the iconic waterfall that is showcased in the Twin Peaks opening credits. There is plenty to explore at Snoqualmie Falls, including a two-acre park, a gift shop, a nearby lodge and spa (we’ll get to that next), and of course a couple of observation decks for the 270-foot waterfall. You’ll find free parking there as well.
2. Stay at the Salish Lodge & Spa
Dubbed the Great Northern Hotel in the show, the Salish Lodge & Spa overlooks the Snoqualmie Falls. It was recently named the best resort in the West. If you’d like to plan a weekend getaway you can book a room, or if you’re just there for a day you can book an appointment to use the award-winning spa.
3. Cross the Reinig Bridge
In the Twin Peaks pilot, the character Ronette Pulaski is seen crossing a bridge in a truly haunting scene. This is the Reinig Bridge over the Snoqualmie River. It’s quite popular amongst fans of the show who sometimes refer to it simply as “Ronette’s Bridge.” It’s open for the public to walk across. If you look closely you may find hidden messages scratched into the bridge.
4. Get a drink at the Roadhouse Bar
Although its interiors were actually filmed at Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle, the exterior of the Roadhouse Bar seen in the show is in Fall City, WA. The Fall City Roadhouse and Inn is only a short drive from Snoqualmie. You can stop in for a bite and a drink. Just know the interior won’t have the red vinyl booths and red-curtained stage.
5. Try a slice of Twin Peaks cherry pie
It’s not Twin Peaks without a slice of cherry pie and some damn fine coffee. You can still find both at the show’s iconic Double R Diner in North Bend, WA (about a 10-minute drive from Snoqualmie) although in real life it’s called Twede’s Cafe. They’re happy to provide plenty of fan service along with heaping helpings of diner food here, so be sure to check it out!
6. Book a guided Twin Peaks tour
Finally, diehard fans can take a guided tour of several Twin Peaks filming locations. There are several tour options to choose from that include famous places like the Red Room and even locations from the movie and the new season. See more info on the Twin Peaks tour website.