Fodor's Expert Review Summit House

On top of Crystal Mountain at 6,872 feet is Washington's highest-elevation restaurant with stunning views of the northeastern face of Mt. Rainier. The Summit House is a popular stop for skiers, hikers, and summer tourists, with a menu featuring Northwest cuisine, including wild Pacific cod fish-and-chips in summer (halibut in winter), elk and bison chili, burgers, and huckleberry ice cream. Sit inside to stay warm by the fireplace, or sit outside on the patio and watch chipmunks run along the nearby rocks. The restaurant is reached by riding the scenic gondola from the base of the mountain; note that gondola tickets ($44 for adults; purchase in advance to save $9) must be purchased separately. There are no reservations, so there can be a wait.

On a clear day, photographers will find plenty of vantage points to capture Mt. Rainier (as well as Mt. Adams in the background). It's an epic view that still awes people who've seen it hundreds of times.