22 Weekend Getaways from Seattle: Fun Escapes Close to Home 

Looking for a fun escape that doesn’t require a lot of travel? Check out these great weekend getaways from Seattle.

Seattle can be a great city to live in, but sometimes it’s nice to get away for a weekend. Whether you’re looking for some relaxation or some new adventures, there are plenty of great weekend getaways close to home.

No matter if you’re looking for a relaxing nature retreat, some excitement and adventure, or cozy romance, I’ve got you covered. You’ll even find some great getaway suggestions here that are quite close to the Seattle area.

So pack your bags and get ready for a weekend of fun!

Suggested weekend trips in this post are arranged in order of distance starting with the nearest to downtown Seattle through the farthest away.

Want help planning your Washington State weekend getaway? Grab your FREE travel planner here.

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If you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway from Seattle, look no further than Bainbridge Island. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some quality time with your special someone.

Bainbridge Island is a short ferry ride from Seattle, but it feels like a world away. It also makes an easy day trip from Seattle.

The island is popular among tourists for its tranquil surroundings. It has become a favorite destination for Seattle residents looking to escape the city bustle.

Bainbridge Island is the perfect place to relax and recharge.

While there you can visit the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (free admission) or the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum, both of which are located in an 1885 schoolhouse originally. The ferry terminal is close to these two museums.

Or you can just enjoy the beautiful surroundings and a lovely view in the Seattle way…with a cup of coffee.

If you’re looking for something a little more active, head to Bloedel Reserve, a beautiful garden on Bainbridge Island. With 150 acres of gardens, forests, and meadows, it’s the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll.

There are some great places to stay on Bainbridge Island. The Eagle Harbor Inn is a small boutique hotel near the water.

Or try The Marshall Suites if you’re looking for a place with a little more space.

Just a short drive from Seattle you’ll find the beautiful 268-foot Snoqualmie Falls on the Snoqualmie River. It’s quite a popular natural attraction in the area.

 About 1.5 million people visit the Falls every year and enjoy the view.

Snoqualmie Falls is listed on the National Register of Historic Places because of its importance to the Snoqualmie people. 

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that’s luxurious and relaxing, Salish Lodge & Spa is the perfect option. They’ve been welcoming guests since 1916, and over the years it has become one of the most popular couple’s getaways in Washington State.

The lodge is located on the banks of Snoqualmie Falls, and guest rooms offer stunning views. There’s dining on site as well as an award-winning spa.

Whidbey Island is a wonderful place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s only a short drive plus a ferry ride from Seattle, and there are plenty of things to do on the island once you arrive.

The arts are well represented on Whidbey Island. You could follow the Whidbey Art Trail and explore the many studios, galleries, and sculpture parks the island offers.

Whidbey is the largest island in Washington State, so there are actually a few towns you could stay in there.

Coupeville may be a good option for you since it’s more or less centrally located. Oak Harbor (north end of the island) and Langley (near-ish the Mukilteo ferry) are larger towns you might want to check out if that’s your preference.

Guests love the Saratoga Inn in Langley and the Captain Whidbey Inn in Coupeville.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or just a few days away from it all, Whidbey Island is a great local destination.

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Port Townsend, Washington

Distance from Seattle: 57 miles

If you’re looking for another weekend getaway that’s a little bit closer to Seattle than some of the others further down the list, consider Port Townsend.

This charming town is located on the Olympic Peninsula and is known for its Victorian architecture.

It’s also a great place for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking (this will be a recurring theme in many of the getaways listed here. It is the Pacific Northwest after all).

There are plenty of lodging options in Port Townsend, including bed & breakfasts, hotels, and vacation rentals.

The Ravenscroft Inn is highly rated by guests for its service, amenities, and breakfast.

I love La Conner! It’s a wonderful little weekend getaway spot.

You’ll find La Conner in Washington’s Skagit Valley (home of the famous Skagit Valley Tulip Festival).

Don’t miss the Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum. It’s a very special place that showcases beautiful work from some amazing artists.

You’ll find plenty to fill your day in La Conner. Fun ideas include stopping by Conner Waterfront Park, kayaking to Goat Island, browsing quaint shops in the center of town, and enjoying a meal at one of La Conner’s amazing eateries.

The town holds many festivals and events throughout the year, so be sure to check the calendar before planning your trip.

Visitors to La Conner highly recommend the Heron Inn and Day Spa for its beautiful rooms and good food.

Undoubtedly one of the top destinations from Seattle is Mount Rainier National Park. This National Park protects and preserves the 14,000+ foot tall Mount Rainier, which also happens to be an active volcano.

According to the National Park Service, Mount Rainier “is the most glaciated peak in the contiguous U.S.A., spawning five major rivers.”

When planning your trip to Mount Rainier, keep in mind that the “winter season” there extends well into the spring. Make sure to check on road status before you leave as well as alerts and conditions.

The majority of Mount Rainier National Park has been designated by Congress as wilderness, but the five developed areas include three visitor centers, a museum, and more.

There are two inns within Mt. Rainier National Park: Paradise Inn and National Park Inn.

Olympic National Park is located on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State, and it’s one of the most popular weekend getaways from Seattle.

Olympic National Park features an amazing variety of very striking scenery from lush rainforest to mountains to beaches.

There are plenty of things to do in Olympic National Park, including hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking. You can also visit the park’s waterfalls, or go see the Roosevelt elk that call the park home.

According to the National Park Service, “Olympic National Park is home to the largest unmanaged herd of Roosevelt elk in the Pacific Northwest.”

It’s really an amazing place. You won’t want to miss the Hoh Rain Forest. It’s one of the largest temperate rainforests in the United States.

And I really enjoyed the Marymere Falls Trail at Lake Crescent. It’s a little less than a mile each way.

You have a few options if you want to stay inside Olympic National Park. Keep in mind that accommodations book up quickly during the popular months of July and August.

If you want to stay outside the Park, you might enjoy Port Angeles. Read more below!

If you’re seeking a quick getaway near Seattle, Port Angeles is an excellent choice. The community is on the Olympic Peninsula, and it has a lot of things to do.

Some of the most popular things to do in Port Angeles include visiting the Olympic National Park (see above), going on a whale-watching tour, and exploring the many shops and restaurants downtown.

One of the highlights of a trip to Port Angeles is Dungeness Spit. This 5-mile-long spit features amazing views, as well as opportunities for fishing, hiking, and bird watching.

If you’re looking for a place to stay on the harbor, check out the Red Lion Hotel Port Angeles Harbor. It’s centrally located and offers great views.

The ferry for Victoria, BC, is just a short walk from the hotel. Long weekend trip, anyone?

Some consider the 57-square-mile Orcas Island the “gem of the San Juans” even going so far as to call it the “Emerald Isle.” I have to say, I agree!

Orcas Island is one of the San Juan Islands in the Puget Sound, and it’s a popular weekend getaway destination for Seattleites.

Orcas Island is known for its beautiful scenery, and it really is one of the best sites in Washington State.

You can visit Moran State Park and its 38 miles of trails, standing atop Mt. Constitution (the highest point in the San Juans, try (you guessed it) sea kayaking or whale watching, charter a sailboat, and more.

If you have a car, you can spend your day trying an island driving tour along the Orcas Island scenic byway and visit the oldest pottery shop in the Pacific Northwest, Orcas Island Pottery.

For a romantic getaway, I recommend a stay at Rosario Resort & Spa.

If you’re really interested in sea kayaking, whale watching, and the like then head to San Juan Island. The San Juan Islands in Washington State are a wonderful place to try a whale-watching excursion.

San Juan is considered one of the best places to see killer whales. 

If you’re in Seattle between spring and early fall, you can easily get to San Juan by using San Juan Clipper directly from Seattle to Friday Harbor (on San Juan). You could also rent a car, drive to Anacortes, and take the ferry.

Friday Harbor is also a very walkable town, and just about anything you’d want to see or do is within walking distance of the ferry terminal.

There are plenty of great places to stay on San Juan Island. You’ll find Friday Harbor House just a few minutes’ walk from the ferry terminal and near whale-watching adventures.

Hikers will surely wish to plan a weekend getaway from Seattle around a visit to North Cascades National Park. Hiking there is most popular during the driest weather in the Park, from mid-June through September.

Though the North Cascades are quite popular with serious backpackers and mountaineers, you’ll also find some great day hikes there. There are at least five or six hiking trails that can easily be done in less than two hours, some in less than one hour.

North Cascades National Park is a great place to go for weekend getaways. The park has plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, camping, fishing, and more.

There are also many great places to stay near North Cascades National Park, such as the Ross Lake Resort. Ross Lake Resort is located in the North Cascades, and they only have a few units. You’ll want to get on the waitlist to have a chance to grab a reservation.

Or check out North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin (keep in mind that there are no roads into Stehekin).

If you’re looking for a picturesque seaside town not too far from Seattle for your next weekend getaway, Blaine, Washington is a great option. With plenty of things to see and do, you won’t be bored in Blaine.

During the day, you can explore the many shops and restaurants downtown, or head to the beach for some sun and relaxation. There’s also a boardwalk that’s perfect for taking a scenic stroll.

No matter what you’re looking for, Blaine is a great weekend getaway.

Just a couple hours drive north of the city, Blaine is home to Semiahmoo Resort, which offers plenty of activities for visitors of any age.

Semiahmoo is a favorite weekend trip from Seattle for my family. This resort is ideal for relaxing and having fun if you’re going on a weekend getaway from Seattle.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that feels like you’ve traveled to Europe without leaving the United States, then Leavenworth is the place for you.

I’ve heard that Leavenworth is the second most popular tourist destination in Washington State, after only Seattle. I’m not sure if that’s true, but I really wouldn’t be surprised.

You’ll find this gem tucked away in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. It’s full of shops, great dining options, quirky sites like a nutcracker museum, and more.

Or tap into your adventurous side and try whitewater rafting on the Wenatchee. Just be sure to bring your camera to document the experience.

There are many great places to stay in Leavenworth, but one of the best is the Bavarian Lodge.

The Bavarian Lodge is located in the heart of Leavenworth. It’s right by Front Street Park and the Nutcracker Museum (you know you want to see it).

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that’s a beach-y break from Seattle, Ocean Shores is a great option.

Ocean Shores is home to miles of sandy beaches, great dining options, and plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. 

During the day, you can explore the beaches in the area, or head downtown for some shopping and food.

In addition to its beaches and restaurants, Ocean Shores is also known for its kite flying. And don’t miss the 23 miles of freshwater canals and waterways that are perfect for paddling.

There are some great places to stay in Ocean Shores. Check out the Grey Gull or the Canterbury Inn.

If you’re looking for a fun-filled beach weekend getaway with plenty of activities to choose from, Ocean Shores is definitely worth considering.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that’s a little bit farther from Seattle, consider Vancouver, British Columbia. Just a few hours north of the city, Vancouver is a beautiful coastal town with plenty of activities to keep you busy.

During the day, you can explore the many shops and restaurants downtown, or head to Stanley Park for some sun and relaxation.

At 1,000 acres, Stanley Park is one of the largest urban parks in North America. With sweeping views of the city and harbor, it’s no wonder this park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Other Vancouver must-sees include Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Chinatown, and the Vancouver Art Gallery. No matter what you’re looking for, Vancouver is a great weekend getaway.

If you’re looking for spacious accommodations near Stanley Park and Vancouver Harbour, check out the Times Square Suites Hotel.

Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria is a have-to-see destination for anyone. It makes a great weekend trip destination for families or couples.

There’s plenty to see and do in Victoria, from exploring the city’s historic center to visiting renowned destinations like Butchart Gardens.

The Victoria Clipper Ferry is a great way to travel to Victoria from Seattle. And the area immediately around the ferry ramp in Victoria is full of things to do like Miniature World, an IMAX theater, and the world-class Royal British Columbia Museum.

My first experience as a kid with a wax museum was in Victoria, BC. LOL.

Don’t forget to snap a photo of the iconic Legislative Assembly of British Columbia building and get Tea at the Empress.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Victoria, the Hotel Grand Pacific is a great option. Located right on the waterfront, this hotel offers stunning views of the city and harbor.

It’s just a few steps from the ferry landing and close to the main attractions.

Portland is a city that has a unique vibe. It’s young, hip, and artsy, and there are always new things to see and do.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that’s full of culture and literary vibes, Portland is the perfect choice.

I’m a sucker for anything book-related, so of course I think Powell’s City of Books is a must-see in Portland.

Powell’s City of Books is the largest independent bookstore in the world. It covers an entire city block and houses more than 1 million books.

Other popular attractions in Portland include the Portland Art Museum, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, the International Rose Test Garden, and the Japanese Garden.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Portland, the Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland is a great option.

This hotel is located in the heart of downtown and is within walking distance of many of the city’s best restaurants and shops…including Powell’s City of Books.

I’m just sayin’.

Astoria is a historic town located on the Oregon Coast. It’s known for its vibrant art scene.

Astoria was founded in 1811 and named for John Jacob Astor. It’s one of the oldest settlements west of the Rocky Mountains. It’s also the oldest city in Oregon.

If you’re a fan of maritime history, Astoria is a must-visit weekend getaway destination. The town is home to the Columbia River Maritime Museum, which houses one of the world’s largest collections of maritime artifacts.

Other popular attractions in Astoria include the Flavel House Museum, the Heritage Center Museum, the Oregon Film Museum, and the Astoria Column.

The Astoria Column is one of the most popular tourist attractions in town. This 125-foot tower offers panoramic views of the city, the river, and the surrounding mountains.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Astoria, the Cannery Pier Hotel is a great option. This hotel is located on the pier and offers stunning views of the river and bridge.

You might also enjoy the Bowline Hotel right on the water and just blocks from the Flavel House Museum. Guests love it for its location and beautifully appointed rooms.

PRO TIP: Explore the Oregon Coast with ease using GuideAlong’s Oregon Coast Highway 101 Audio Tour. The tour starts in Astoria and will take you south to Florence…or drive it in the other direction.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that’s beautiful and full of natural wonders, Cannon Beach is a great option. Just a few hours from Seattle, Cannon Beach is home to Haystack Rock, one of the most iconic sights on the Oregon coast.

In fact, if you’ve seen a photo that’s supposed to be representative of Oregon’s beaches, you probably saw Haystack Rock.

The beach at Cannon Beach is wide and sandy. You’ll also find plenty of shops and restaurants in town, as well as several bed and breakfast inns.

If you’re looking for a weekend escape that’s peaceful and serene, Cannon Beach is worth considering.

Columbia River Gorge is one of the most beautiful and scenic areas in the United States. This area is known for its lush forests, rushing waterfalls, and stunning vistas.

If you’re traveling in the fall, the Columbia River Gorge is also a great place to do some serious leaf peeping (without having to travel to New England).

There are numerous hiking and biking trails in the Columbia River Gorge, so it’s a great weekend getaway destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Some popular attractions in the Columbia River Gorge include Multnomah Falls (the tallest waterfall in Oregon), Vista House, Horsetail Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Latourell Falls, and Beacon Rock State Park.

You could easily spend days exploring all this area has to offer…and you’ll never want to leave.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in the Columbia River Gorge, the Skamania Lodge is a great option. This lodge is located in Stevenson, Washington, and offers stunning views of the river and gorge.

If you’re looking for something a little more rustic, try renting one of the many cabins or vacation rentals in the area.

There are also several campgrounds located in the Columbia River Gorge, so it’s a great weekend getaway destination for camping enthusiasts.

Okay, this one is a bit of a stretch. It would be a healthy 5-hour drive from Seattle to Lake Chelan, so maybe tuck this idea away for a long weekend trip of 3 to 4 days.

Lake Chelan is a gorgeous destination for a weekend getaway. The glacier-fed lake is located in the Cascade Mountains in central Washington, and it’s surrounded by hills.

It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Washington state.

And Chelan is not your average lake. It’s actually quite long (50 miles!) and narrow, so it takes in a rather large area.

There are plenty of activities to keep you busy on Lake Chelan, including hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and shops in town.

There are many options for places to stay in Chelan from camping to resorts. Try the Lakeside Lodge and Suites. It’s right on the lake and just a few steps from Lakeside Park.

If you’re looking for a weekend escape that’s peaceful and serene, Lake Chelan is definitely worth considering.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that’s full of natural beauty, Mount Hood is a perfect choice. The beauty of Mt Hood is undeniable, and it’s a great destination for nature lovers.

Located just 60 (or so) miles east of Portland, Oregon, Mount Hood is the tallest mountain in the state and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

There are numerous hiking and biking trails in the area, so it’s a great weekend getaway destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

In the winter, Mount Hood is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. The mountain has several ski resorts, including Timberline Lodge (which was used as a filming location for the 1980 movie The Shining).

Final thoughts on weekend trips from Seattle

There are plenty of great weekend trips that you can take from Seattle, depending on what you’re looking for.

If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend away from the United States, consider heading to Vancouver or Victoria in British Columbia.

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, check out Olympic National Park or North Cascades National Park.

If you’re looking for a relaxing resort stay, you can try Salish Lodge & Spa at Snoqualmie Falls or Semiahmoo Resort in Blaine, Washington.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway that’s close to home or a little farther away, there are plenty of great options to choose from. So get out there and explore all that the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

No matter what you choose, I’m sure you’ll have a great time!

Have you ever been to any of these weekend getaway destinations from Seattle? What are some of your favorite places to visit in the Pacific Northwest?

More articles to help you plan your weekend getaway from Seattle

• How to spend one day in Seattle
• Seattle bucket list: top things to do in the Emerald City
• Glorious day trips from Seattle
• Free and cheap things to do in Seattle
• The perfect Seattle weekend itinerary
• The best Seattle souvenirs
• How to plan a weekend getaway
• Your essential weekend getaway packing list

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