In This Article

1. Bellingham - 1 hour and 30 minutes from Seattle

Bellingham - 1 hour and 30 minutes from Seattle

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Location:

Bellingham, WA

Highlights:

If you’re craving fresh air, epic mountain views, and that classic PNW vibe, Bellingham is an easy favorite—just a quick road trip from Seattle. It’s the kind of place where you can hike in the morning and catch a waterfront sunset by dinner.

Recommended For:

Outdoor enthusiasts, road trippers, families, seafood lovers, and anyone who wants a mix of adventure and small-town charm.

What I Love: ♥

Access to Mt. Baker for skiing, summer fishing and hiking, local galleries and museums, and a packed events calendar that brings the community together year-round.
  • Explore the city’s trails, lakes, and mountains for hiking, fishing, skiing, and golfing.
  • Visit in April for the annual seafood festival or in August for the six-day community fair.
  • Browse Bellingham’s local art scene through its many galleries and cultural museums.
  • Stop by the Visitor Center at 904 Potter St. for help planning your perfect itinerary.

Distance from Seattle:

Expect the drive to take around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

How to Get to Bellingham:

Head north on I-5 from Seattle for approximately 90 miles. Bellingham is just south of the Canadian border, and the drive is scenic the whole way.

Plan ahead for these Bellingham Events:
- Ski to Sea - May
- Bellingham SeaFeast - Saturday & Sunday October
- Fairhaven Winterfest - from late November to late December

2. Bainbridge Island - 1 hour from Seattle

Bainbridge Island - 1 hour from Seattle

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Location:

Bainbridge Island, WA

Highlights:

If you ever need a quick escape from Seattle that feels like a total reset, hop the ferry to Bainbridge. It’s all mountain views, charming shops, and fresh island air the second you step off the boat.

Recommended For:

Seattle day-trippers, couples, wine and craft spirits lovers, nature walkers, and fans of small-town charm with a touch of luxury.

What I Love: ♥

Sweeping views of Mount Rainier and the Olympics, boutique wineries and distilleries, easy hikes, and the postcard-perfect village of Winslow.
  • Sip your way through artisan wineries, an organic distillery, and a local brewery.
  • Stroll through the village of Winslow—just a short walk from the ferry—with its indie shops, restaurants, and waterfront park.
  • Hike peaceful trails and explore lush parks across the island.
  • Discover local history at unique cultural sites scattered throughout the area.

Distance from Seattle:

About a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown.

How to Get to Bainbridge Island:

Take the ferry from Seattle’s Colman Dock (Pier 52). Once you arrive, Winslow and other attractions are walkable or reachable by car or bike.

3. Mount Rainier National Park - 1 hour 45 min from Seattle

Mount Rainier National Park - 1 hour 45 min from Seattle

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Location:

Mount Rainier National Park, WA

Highlights:

Need a nature fix that’ll blow your mind and clear your head? Mount Rainier is the ultimate Seattle escape—just you, the mountain, and views that don’t quit.

Recommended For:

Hikers, climbers, families, photographers, and anyone looking to explore one of the most iconic natural wonders in the Pacific Northwest.

What I Love: ♥

Jaw-dropping glacier views, wildflower meadows, epic hiking trails, and multiple visitor centers to help plan your day.
  • Hike scenic trails ranging from short walks to challenging alpine climbs.
  • Climb for a real adventure—Rainier is one of the most popular mountaineering destinations in the U.S.
  • Visit one of several visitor centers for maps, exhibits, food, and ranger tips.
  • Stay the night with options for campgrounds and backcountry permits—don’t forget your park pass.

Distance from Seattle:

Around 2 hours by car, depending on which entrance you choose.

How to Get to Mount Rainier National Park:

From Seattle, take I-5 south to WA-7 or WA-161 for the Nisqually or Paradise entrances. Plan ahead, especially during peak summer weekends when parking fills early.

4. Snoqualmie Falls - 1 hour from Seattle

Snoqualmie Falls - 1 hour from Seattle

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Location:

Snoqualmie, WA

Highlights:

When you want to impress out-of-towners—or just escape the city for a few hours—Snoqualmie Falls is a no-fail favorite. It’s dramatic, easy to reach, and always makes you pause and take a deep breath.

Recommended For:

Day-trippers, photographers, nature lovers, accessibility-conscious travelers, and anyone craving a peaceful but powerful experience.

What I Love: ♥

The thunderous 270-foot falls, scenic overlooks, free entry, and the cozy charm of Salish Lodge & Spa right next door.
  • View the falls from an accessible observation deck or stroll the short hiking trail to the lower viewpoint.
  • Dine at the Salish Lodge restaurant—especially for the iconic pancakes with syrup poured from on high.
  • Relax at the picnic area, grab a coffee, or stop by the gift shop.
  • Enjoy free admission, public restrooms, and free parking, all just 45 minutes from Seattle.

Distance from Seattle:

About a 45-minute drive east.

How to Get to Snoqualmie Falls:

Take I-90 East to Exit 27. Turn left and follow Snoqualmie Parkway for about 4 miles to the falls. Look for signs—parking is clearly marked and easy to find.

5. Boeing Factory Tour - 30 min from Seattle

Boeing Factory Tour - 30 min from Seattle

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Location:

Mukilteo, WA

Highlights:

If you're into engineering marvels or just want to see something totally jaw-dropping, the Boeing Factory Tour is worth the drive. It's one of those only-in-Washington experiences that’ll make you see airplanes—and innovation—in a whole new way.

Recommended For:

Aviation geeks, families with curious teens, STEM lovers, out-of-town visitors, and anyone fascinated by massive machines and behind-the-scenes access.

What I Love: ♥

The scale of the factory floor, the up-close view of iconic jet production, and the deep dive into Boeing's aerospace legacy.
  • Tour the world’s largest building by volume and witness 747, 777, and 787 Dreamliners in production.
  • Learn about Boeing’s history and future at the Future of Flight Aviation Center.
  • Reserve in advance—tours run daily and often sell out quickly.
  • Experience a 90-minute guided journey that begins and ends at the Future of Flight.

Distance from Seattle:

About a 40-minute drive north, depending on traffic.

How to Get to the Boeing Factory Tour:

Drive north on I-5 and take Exit 189 toward WA-526 West. Follow signs to the Future of Flight Aviation Center at 8415 Paine Field Blvd, Mukilteo, WA 98275.

Romantic Day Trips from Seattle, WA:

6. Lakewold Gardens - 50 min from Seattle

Lakewold Gardens - 50 min from Seattle

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Location:

Lakewood, WA

Highlights:

If you’re craving some peace and beauty without going too far from Seattle, Lakewold Gardens is a total hidden gem. It’s where formal garden design meets Northwest tranquility—perfect for a quiet afternoon or a special event.

Recommended For:

Garden lovers, photographers, wedding planners, nature nerds, and anyone in need of a calm, artful escape.

What I Love: ♥

The sculpted boxwoods, trickling alpine stream, colorful rhododendrons, and the chance to take a class or rent the grounds for your own celebration.
  • Wander 10 acres of beautifully curated gardens, including waterfalls, sculpted hedges, and seasonal blooms.
  • Take a gardening class—offered year-round with special pricing for members.
  • Shop the on-site gift boutique for garden-inspired finds.
  • Book the grounds for weddings, meetings, or reserve a group tour in advance.

Distance from Seattle:

Around 50 minutes south by car.

How to Get to Lakewold Gardens:

Take I-5 South to Gravelly Lake Dr SW (Exit 124). Turn right and follow the road about 1.5 miles to 12317 Gravelly Lake Dr SW, Lakewood, WA 98499.

7. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument - 3 hours 15 min

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument - 3 hours 15 min

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Location:

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, WA

Highlights:

If you’ve ever wanted to stand in the shadow of a volcano and really *feel* the power of nature, Mount St. Helens delivers. It’s surreal, humbling, and surprisingly easy to reach from Seattle for a bold day trip or weekend adventure.

Recommended For:

Volcano buffs, hikers, geology lovers, photographers, and anyone who remembers the 1980 eruption—or wants to see its lasting impact firsthand.

What I Love: ♥

Panoramic viewpoints like Windy Ridge, the haunting beauty of Spirit Lake, and the opportunity to hike inside a real volcanic crater (with a permit!).
  • Explore 110,000 acres set aside for education, research, and outdoor recreation.
  • Drive to scenic spots like Windy Ridge for views of Spirit Lake and the blast zone.
  • Hike one of the many trails—ranging from short nature walks to strenuous climbs.
  • Climb to the summit with a special permit (advance reservations required due to daily limits).

Distance from Seattle:

Around 2.5 to 3 hours by car.

How to Get to Mount St. Helens:

Take I-5 South to Exit 49, then head east on Spirit Lake Highway (WA-504). Visitor centers and viewpoints are well-marked along the route to Windy Ridge.

Recommended Mount St. Helens Tours:

8. Lake Cle Elum - 1 hour 40 min

Lake Cle Elum - 1 hour 40 min

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Location:

Cle Elum, WA

Highlights:

If you're itching for a low-key lake escape with solid fishing and mountain views, Lake Cle Elum is a laid-back gem east of the Cascades. It's perfect for a quiet day on the water—just don’t wait too long in the season if you want to launch a boat!

Recommended For:

Anglers, families, road trippers, and those who love serene lake settings without the crowds.

What I Love: ♥

Multiple trout species, year-round fishing access, and its peaceful location just a short drive from the town of Cle Elum.
  • Fish for kokanee, rainbow, and cutthroat trout in a scenic alpine lake.
  • Plan your visit early in the season if you need boat access—launches typically close by mid-summer.
  • Relax by the shore or cast a line from your kayak or paddleboard.
  • Check for updated fishing regulations before you go—rules can change with the season.

Distance from Seattle:

Around 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.

How to Get to Lake Cle Elum:

Take I-90 East to Exit 80 for Roslyn/Salmon La Sac. Follow WA-903 North through Roslyn and Ronald—Lake Cle Elum is about 7 miles past the town of Cle Elum.

Family Day Trips from Seattle, WA:

9. Olympic National Forest - 2 hours 40 min

Olympic National Forest - 2 hours 40 min

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Location:

Olympic Peninsula, WA

Highlights:

Looking for a wild weekend that feels worlds away from the city? Olympic National Forest has it all—rainforests, saltwater shores, and alpine peaks—all in one magical drive from Seattle.

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, road trippers, families, horseback riders, photographers, and anyone who wants variety and solitude in equal measure.

What I Love: ♥

The diversity of landscapes—from lush rainforest to rugged mountain—plus horseback riding, historic cabin rentals, and scenic drives that never get old.
  • Explore 628,000+ acres surrounding Olympic National Park, with trails and viewpoints to suit every skill level.
  • Fish in pristine rivers, hike through moss-draped forests, or ride horseback on peaceful backcountry paths.
  • Drive scenic byways like the Hood Canal Loop or Forest Route 30 for some of the best views in the state.
  • Stay overnight in a campground or book one of three historic rental cabins for extra comfort in the wilderness.

Distance from Seattle:

Varies by access point, but plan for around 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on your route.

How to Get to Olympic National Forest:

Multiple routes are available. From Seattle, take the Bainbridge or Edmonds ferry, then drive west on US-101 to reach different entry points around the forest’s perimeter. Use the Forest Service website for maps and trip planning.

10. The Bloedel Reserve - 70 minutes

The Bloedel Reserve - 70 minutes

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Location:

Bainbridge Island, WA

Highlights:

If you’re in the mood for quiet paths, meditative beauty, and lush green everything—Bloedel Reserve is your spot. Just a short ferry ride from Seattle, it feels like stepping into a living poem.

Recommended For:

Garden lovers, design enthusiasts, meditative walkers, day-trippers, and anyone who wants peace and natural elegance rolled into one unforgettable stroll.

What I Love: ♥

The blend of Japanese garden influences, rare moss gardens, a serene bird marsh, and the surprising backstory of its founders.
  • Wander through 150 acres of intentional design, from floral glens to shaded forest paths.
  • Discover peaceful features like a moss garden, bird marsh, and classic Japanese-style garden.
  • Join a free guided tour included with admission—perfect for first-time visitors wanting deeper insight.
  • Shop for thoughtful gifts and souvenirs at the on-site store before heading back to the ferry.

Distance from Seattle:

About 35 minutes by ferry, plus a short drive or ride to the Reserve.

How to Get to Bloedel Reserve:

Take the ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island, then drive or rideshare approximately 15 minutes to 7571 NE Dolphin Dr, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110.

Plan Your Trip