17 Weekend Trips From Seattle for a Quick Getaway
Vacationing doesn’t have to be difficult! If you’re living in Seattle, you’re in luck; this bustling city offers plenty of exciting weekend getaways.
From watching whales in the San Juan Islands to getting your fill of sunshine and sandy beaches on the Oregon Coast, you can quickly escape for a change of scenery without breaking the bank.
In this blog post, we’ll look into 17 exciting trips from Seattle anyone can take for a much-deserved break from the daily grind.
Whether you’re overworking yourself with Zoom calls or just need some time away from your usual routine, we’ll provide the perfect excuse to switch it up and see something new.
So grab your bags and pack up; let’s explore what lies beyond Seattle!
1. Portland, OR
If you’ve been itching to get away from Seattle or just want to explore another urban city within a three-hour drive, it’s time to hit the road to Portland.
This great city on the other side of the majestic Columbia River Gorge is full of exciting sites, like the Portland Art Museum and Powell’s City of Books.
Plus, you’ll find plenty of amazing restaurants, cozy coffee houses, and shopping galore in every unique neighborhood.
Take a stroll through Washington Park and be sure to check out their famous International Rose Test Garden and Hoyt Arboretum.
Explore Portland and all its beauty this weekend – you won’t regret it!
Our Top Hotel Pick: Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel
2. Victoria, BC
The beautiful city of Victoria has no shortage of personality, especially when the sun is shining.
This charming capital of British Columbia boasts delightful English-influenced architecture and enough European flair to make one feel like they’ve been whisked away without leaving North America.
It’s no surprise that this picturesque city is commonly known as the Garden City – those who visit can attest to its blooming beauty.
A weekend in Victoria simply wouldn’t be complete without checking out the Royal BC Museum, Beacon Hill Park and Craigdarroch Castle.
And don’t forget The Butchart Gardens; if you want to immerse yourself in all things floral and get your flower power fix, it’s a must-see.
Victoria is just over 2.5 hours via the Victoria Clipper ferry from Seattle, so you can easily make this fit into your weekend!
Our Top Hotel Pick: Fairmont Empress Hotel
3. Vancouver, BC
If you’re in the Seattle area and looking for a weekend getaway, all signs point north! Vancouver, BC is an ideal – and obvious – choice for a short trip away.
Visitors are often surprised at the striking similarities between our northern neighbor and Washington State, yet no matter how familiar it may feel, it never disappoints.
The city itself is ultra picturesque with its waterfront and mountainside backdrop.
With awesome outdoor activities galore and delicious eats around every corner, Vancouver can also please those looking for some adventure beyond city life.
Don’t forget to check out our guide on the best places to stay in Vancouver!
Our Top Hotel Pick: JW Mariott PARQ
4. Whidbey Island, WA
Looking for the perfect weekend escape from Seattle? Look no further than Whidbey Island – the scenic paradise of Puget Sound!
Whidbey Island is not only the largest island in all of Puget Sound, but also one of the most accessible from Seattle – just a short drive and ferry ride away.
When you arrive on this wild Pacific coast, there’s no shortage of attractions to keep you busy.
Enjoy miles of stunning shoreline, farm-fresh restaurants, and a wide array of art galleries and sculpture parks.
For some historical context, check out Fort Ebey State Park near the center of the island.
Or for some jaw-dropping natural beauty, head up to the northern tip where you’ll find Deception Pass State Park – arguably Washington’s best state park with hundreds of campsites, heaps of tide pools to explore, miles of hiking trails and some incredible views.
Our Top Hotel Pick: Saratoga Inn
5. Port Angeles, WA
Located on the Olympic Peninsula and a short drive away from Seattle, Port Angeles is a charming community that has plenty to offer.
From whale-watching tours to exploring downtown shops and restaurants, there’s something here for everyone.
One true highlight is Dungeness Spit; the iconic 5-mile-long spit with striking views offer tons of outdoor activities, like hiking, fishing, and bird watching – all in one place.
After all that adventuring, you can treat yourself to some well-deserved rest and relaxation with delicious food at one of the many downtown restaurants or go hunting for treasure at the boutique shops.
Let’s face it – your staycation search ends here!
Our Top Hotel Pick: Sea Cliff Gardens Bed & Breakfast
6. Bellingham, WA
For those looking for a more urban experience, downtown Bellingham has no shortage of attractions.
Marvel at the finest artwork in the many galleries or hang out among the local vendors and small shops, who offer unique and one-of-a-kind finds.
But if all that culture-hunting has you a bit peckish, why not seek out a lovely brunch spot along Bellingham’s waterfront? Enjoy stunning views as you noshe on some tasty grub.
Want to get out into nature? Check out the gorgeous 20-mile Chuckanut Drive for cliffside views overlooking Puget Sound.
When the sun sets beyond the horizon, don’t worry – there’s still plenty of things to do at night!
Make sure you pack your walking shoes and book until Sunday because this town has stories worth sticking around for.
Our Top Hotel Pick: Four Points by Sheraton Bellingham
7. Whistler, BC
A trip to Whistler is the perfect way to experience all Mother Nature has to offer.
You won’t want to miss the stunning Sea to Sky highway that takes you right up there – so much beauty in one road trip!
Whether you’re looking for an adventurous getaway filled with hikes, mountain biking, and even a little ziplining action, or just want to relax by taking the gondola up for lunch at the top of the mountain, there’s something here for everybody.
Whichever season you pick – winter, spring, summer, or fall – you know it’ll be packed with amazing events!
If you consider yourself a bit of a foodie, Whistler is home to some world-famous restaurants like Hy’s Steakhouse, French vibes at Bearfoot Bistro, Araxi for some delicious West Coast fare, and Il Caminetto for Italian classics. Sounds like paradise? Let’s go!
Our Top Hotel Pick: Fairmont Chateau Whistler
8. Mt. Rainier National Park, WA
Boasting a whopping 14,000+ feet of natural beauty, Mt. Rainier is an absolute must-see for anyone venturing outside of Seattle.
With its snowcapped summits and breathtaking panoramic views, not to mention the fact it’s an active volcano, there’s no doubt why this National Park is one of the most popular destinations around.
Though visiting Mount Rainier requires some extra planning when compared to other trips with its extended winter season, there’s always something magical waiting at the top!
Our Top Hotel Pick: National Park Inn
9. Lopez Island, WA
As the ferry pulls into Lopez Island, you can almost hear a collective sigh of pleasant surprise from the passengers – Seattle may be just a few miles away, but stepping off the boat feels like instant transportation to another time and place!
On Lopez Island, you’ll get none of those boxy-chain vibes; if you’re after an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, this is your place.
Just 30 square miles in size, the heavily forested island boasts plenty of outdoor activities perfect for every kind of adventurer: hikers can explore Iceberg Point while bikers get their thrills out at Sharkreef Sanctuary.
Or trade your wheels for something more leisurely: lounging on the beach or in a local Art Studio, perhaps?
And from there, dining options abound; seafood lovers will be especially delighted.
With diverse accommodations available for every kind of budget (from camping sites to luxury guesthouses), everyone can find the perfect place to call home base during their island adventures.
When it comes to Lopez Island, there’s truly no wrong way to explore.
Our Top Hotel Pick: Edenwild Boutique Inn
10. San Juan Islands, WA
San Juan Island may not have a sunset as iconic as the one in Hawaii, but it is a place that will surprise you.
In fact, if there’s one thing this charming island does better than its Hawaiian counterpart, is providing some of the best whale-watching experiences in the world!
Whether you choose to take one of the local boat tours or hike around Lime Kiln State Park, you are guaranteed to be quite astonished by these majestic creatures and the calm beauty of the ocean.
Plus, after an action-packed day on the water, deservedly treat yourself to some delicious local food and drinks.
Our Top Hotel Pick: Friday Harbor Suites
11. Long Beach, WA
If you need more sand than Seattle has to offer, Long Beach is definitely worth the three-hour drive from Seattle.
With a nice boardwalk, amazing grub, shopping, and carnival rides, there is plenty to occupy your day.
You can even take your car onto the beach! Just remember to keep an eye out so no one’s toes get driven over.
It’s also famous for kite flying due to the strong winds; don’t forget to check out the World Kite Museum. Now that’s something that’ll take your windy day to new heights!
Our Top Hotel Pick: Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort
12. Snoqualmie Falls, WA
A short drive away from Seattle, you’ll find a beautiful oasis with 268 feet of cascading water wondrously situated on the Snoqualmie River.
Yes, we’re talking about Snoqualmie Falls, the popular natural attraction in the area that lures visitors from all over the world.
It’s not just a site for Instagram posts and views – it’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places as an important part of indigenous history.
So here’s to having breathtaking terrain and being historically significant at the same time – making it one of the best waterfalls near Seattle!
Our Top Hotel Pick: Salish Lodge & Spa
13. Lummi Island, WA
If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that doesn’t involve jostling with crowds, the tiny and remote Lummi Island is your answer.
When you don’t have to fight for parking spots, your relaxing weekend has already begun.
Lummi Island hikes are perfect for getting to know the area and appreciating its natural beauty.
The Baker Preserve Trail is the most popular of the bunch, and with good reason – you’ll be staring out at gorgeous views of Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands while huffing up steep inclines at 3.2 miles roundtrip.
But if physical activity isn’t your vibe, don’t worry – you can always relax at one of the island’s many beautiful public beaches.
Our Top Hotel Pick: Nettles Farm Bed & Breakfast
14. Spokane, WA
Are you searching for the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and amazing food? Look no further than Spokane!
You can spend the day out on a trail, exploring Riverside State Park or chasing trails all around Mount Spokane.
Enjoy an overnight stay at Quartz Mountain Fire Lookout – it’ll make you feel like you rule the great outdoors!
And if you’re anything like us, you’ll start planning your next morning snack before your current meal is even over. Lucky for you, Spokane is chock full of delish eateries.
Hello Sugar has mini donuts that will sweeten your day, plus the all-important caffeine stop at Indaba Coffee.
Get ready for your best wilderness-meets-dining experience in Spokane!
Our Top Hotel Pick: The Davenport Grand, Autograph Collection
15. Lake Chelan, WA
Looking for a weekend adventure that includes maximum relaxation and serenity? Look no further than Lake Chelan located in the Cascade Mountains.
Not your typical lake, this piece of paradise is 50 miles long and narrow so it spreads out among hills and trees.
There won’t be a shortage of activities to keep you coming back each year – fishing, boating, jet skiing, swimming, hanging on the beach and even shopping in town are all options while you’re there!
Whether you rent a boat or just take time to relax and enjoy nature, Lake Chelan is sure to give you that long-weekly getaway vibes with quality me-time.
Our Top Hotel Pick: Campbell’s Resort on Lake Chelan
16. Bainbridge Island, WA
On Bainbridge Island, you can find plenty of activities for couples to bond over, like walks and hikes, art appreciation, and more.
Check out the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art or the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum, both situated in an 1885 schoolhouse.
If that’s not your cup of tea, head over to Bloedel Reserve – a stunning garden with 150 acres of gardens, forests, and meadows. This is sure to be a weekend adventure worth remembering!
Our Top Hotel Pick: The Inn at Pleasant Beach
17. Astoria, OR
Astoria is quite the unique destination for a weekend trip from Seattle. Not only does it provide some old-fashioned charm with its antique shops and delectable seafood, but it also serves as the perfect place to begin an Oregon coast excursion.
Life takes on a slower tempo in this quaint city, giving you time to explore its surroundings and bask in its rich film history – Kindergarten Cop 2, The Ring 2 and Free Willy’s iconic finale are among its most beloved reel moments.
A bit of Goonies nostalgia can also be spotted if you know where to look!
Get ready for a weekend of adventure that’ll exceed expectations – Astoria awaits!
Our Top Hotel Pick: Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa
