Tucker74

Hi, we are planning a trip to Seattle and environs at the end of August/1st week of September. We have 7 days (including arrival/departure) to explore and will have our two kids (6 and 2) in tow. We have been to the area a couple of times but the kids have not.

The plan so far is to spend the first two and a half days exploring Seattle (Pike Place Market, Seattle Center, etc), then over to San Juan Island for a couple of days, and after that is a question mark. Will have two full days to explore. The question is if we are better served going to:

Olympic National Park
Mt. Ranier
Victoria

With the two kids we're not up for strenuous hiking but do like the outdoors. Victoria is at bottom of the list since me and my wife have been before and though it quaint but not a necessary destination. It still might be fun for the kids which is why it's on the list. Any words of advice would be greatly appreciated!

suze

Well honestly I don't think you have "and then" I think Seattle & the San Juans island with only one week's time is plenty.

That said, ONP and Mt. Rainier are in the exact opposite direction (south from Seattle) and Victoria is north (at least in the same general direction you'd be heading for the San Juans).

elnap29

Usually kids that little prefer to just be in one place and "play." They'd be happy on a swingset or in a park or digging in the sand, etc. Perhaps pick what is most relaxing for YOU and let them just enjoy the place.

suze

It takes quite a bit of time to get to the San Juans from Seattle, between the driving, waiting in ferry lines, ferry ride time, etc. So when you say "a few days", you need to add at least another 1-day's worth to get there and back imo.

NWWanderer

i agree, those 2 locations is plenty for one week especially since it basically takes a day each way to get to and from the san juans. don't go on a friday or come back on a sunday.

do mt rainier as a day trip from seattle.