Seattle offers visitors mountain-water view combos over fresh seafood, a thriving indie art scene close to nature, and some of the best coffee in the country. However, there is so much more to the Evergreen State than the big(ish) city. If the urban traffic and crowds make you crave something a bit different after a few days, consider one of these small towns!
Poulsbo
Nineteenth-century Scandinavian settlers put down roots in the Pacific Northwest due to the familiar terrain, climate and industries (fishing, logging and farming). Poulsbo provided a central location on Puget Sound, and to this day, it is known as “Little Norway.” (The town even hosts an annual Vikingfest each May.) Sluy’s Bakery, a local institution, bakes regionally famous lefse (Norwegian potato crepes), bread and Nordic baked goods. The free-to-enter Maritime and Heritage Museums provide history and context. Additionally, make sure to visit the nearby gravesite of Chief Sealth (Seattle’s namesake) and the Suquamish Museum for the indigenous history.
Winslow
Commute like a Washingtonian and take an iconic ferry ride across Puget Sound to Winslow. Once rural Bainbridge Island’s main hub, these days the trendy town serves as Seattleites’ go-to day trip for waterfront brunch and shopping. Have a crab Benedict at Cafe Hitchcock, purchase baked goods at Blackbird Bakery, grab coffee at Pegasus Coffee House and wander down to the waterfront. For a more educational experience, the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial is an essential stop to learn about the darker side of the island’s history.
North Bend
Rattlesnake Ledge, Mailbox Peak and Big/Little Si are some of the most popular day hikes from Seattle. Nearby North Bend (one of the main filming locations for Twin Peaks) makes for the perfect post-trail lunch stop. Favorites include South Fork, North Bend Bar & Grill or Twede’s Cafe. The Northwest Railway Museum is a fun, informative stop in town and will delight train enthusiasts of all ages. If you still have some energy, the famous Snoqualmie Falls are just a 10-minute drive away and round out an ideal PNW day.
Kingston
The Kingston fast ferry now makes a scenic trip to the Kitsap Peninsula easier than ever. The area comprises just a couple of streets, clustered above the ferry terminal and marina, with a consistently laid-back vibe. Must-visit spots to eat include Island Cool Ice Cream, the Kingston Ale House and J’aime Les Crêpes Crêperie.
Edmonds
This walkable suburb is located 20 minutes north of Seattle and is situated right on Puget Sound. The wonderful weekend farmers’ market features local products from around Washington between May and October. Additionally, whale watching tours depart from the marina, saving you a longer trip to Anacortes or the San Juan Islands.
Kirkland
Located right on Lake Washington, Kirkland is an eastside hub for those who love lake access in a walkable town with amazing restaurants and cafes. Waterside walking paths, public beach access and a seasonal farmers’ market all provide respite during the summer.
Woodinville
Woodinville has been Western Washington’s primary wine destination since Chateau Ste. Michelle opened a tasting room back in the 1970s. Historically, Washington vineyards have been located east of the Cascade Mountain range (which divides the state) due to its sunnier, better wine-growing climate. However, following Ste. Michelle, many have opened westside tasting rooms and event centers featuring summer concerts and other fun happenings here.
Langley
Whidbey Island’s cutest town is perfect for a weekend getaway. Take a kayak tour, admire the well-maintained historic buildings and take in views of Camano Island across the way. If you want a good cup of coffee, head to Salty Sea Coffee, or for bookish visitors, the Commons Cafe & Books.
Coupeville
Another charming Whidbey locale, Coupeville’s recently refurbished pier features the new Native women-run coffee shop, Beaver Tales Coffee. It’s also close to Ebey’s Landing, one of the most breathtaking hikes on the island, with jaw-dropping views of the sound and distant Olympic Mountains.
Port Townsend
This adorable town sits at the very tip of the Quimper Peninsula (part of the larger Olympic Peninsula across the sound from Seattle). Visitors can relax in Victorian mansions that now serve as B&Bs, wander the beach and peruse the many antique shops and quaint cafes. Want to extend your trip? Just take the Coupeville ferry across to Whidbey.
Anacortes
This beautiful waterside spot is worth an overnight stay before hopping on the ferry to the nearby San Juan Islands. Anacortes is also a great spot to go whale watching. Whether you’re scouting for marine life or not, take in the view at the Sares Head Viewpoint or from a rooftop bar.
La Conner
La Conner makes for an easy detour en route to Anacortes. You’ll be rewarded with a historic riverfront, with a walkway right over the water and great food and drink options like the La Conner Brewing Company and Nell Thorn.
Bellingham
This funky college town is perfect for outdoors enthusiasts. Bellingham is well-positioned for hikes, bike trails and dips in Lake Padden or the Bay. Make sure to stop by local breweries such as Aslan and El Sueñito, as well as Bellingham Coffee Roasters, or if you want a bit of both types of brews, ROAM Coffee + Beer.