Best Weekend Trips
from Seattle, WA

The North Cascades offer bright mountain mornings, lazy afternoons, and wine- and ale-soaked evenings. You'll fall head over lederhosen for the Bavarian-style village of Leavenworth, which combines with a meander through the sun-drenched Wenatchee wine and orchard country for a perfect escape.

Mt. Rainier—the Cascades' tallest peak—looms to the southeast of the city, just beckoning adventurous types to visit. Families flock to the 14,410-foot mountain year round for skiing, climbing, and hiking, and no wonder: it's an easy three hour drive away from downtown Seattle.

Our Olympic Peninsula itinerary winds from the Victorian-era Port Townsend along wind-swept beaches and into the temperate rainforest of the Olympic National Park. The far northern half of this region is perfect for lake hikes, beachfront picnics, outdoor cocktails, and other romantic adventures.

Comprising 172 islands in northwest Washington, San Juan County offers locavore restaurants, plentiful activities, and charming hotels in one incredible escape. Ferries deliver travelers to relax and rejuvenate on two shining stars: the horseshoe-shaped Orcas Island, and the undulating San Juan Island.

Just northwest of Seattle on Vancouver Island, Victoria is seemingly a destination made for weekend getaways. The compact, historic city doesn't necessitate a car, and there are plenty of attractions to keep you busy for two or three full days.