Sometimes you just need a change of scenery, and luckily, Seattle is surrounded by places that feel like you’ve hit the travel jackpot.
Whether you’re craving waterfalls, islands, snowy mountains, or even a town that looks like it was pulled straight out of Europe, you’re only a short drive away from adventure.
These spots are perfect for a day trip as they’re easy to get to, packed with cool things to do, and guaranteed to make you feel like you’re way farther from home than you actually are.
Get ready to find your next favorite getaway spot!
1. Snoqualmie Falls, WA
Snoqualmie Falls is a jaw-dropping 268-foot waterfall located in the tiny town of Snoqualmie, about 30 miles east of Seattle.
You can get there by hopping on I-90 East, taking Exit 25, and following the signs—it’s an easy 35-minute drive if you don’t hit traffic.
This spot is famous for its roaring waterfall, lush green park, and the historic Salish Lodge sitting right at the top (you might recognize it from the TV show Twin Peaks).
There’s also a free observation deck, short hiking trails, and a gift shop where you can grab fun souvenirs like Bigfoot T-shirts and local honey!
2. Diablo Lake, WA
If you’re craving jaw-dropping colors, Diablo Lake in the North Cascades will totally blow your mind with its unreal bright turquoise water.
It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Seattle—you’ll head north on I-5, take Highway 20 (aka the North Cascades Highway), and cruise through some seriously gorgeous mountain scenery.
This man-made lake gets its crazy color from tiny glacial rocks floating in the water, and you can soak up the views from the Diablo Lake Overlook or rent a kayak if you’re feeling adventurous.
Fun fact: the lake is part of the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project, which has been powering Seattle with clean energy since the 1930s!
3. Skagit Valley, WA
If you’re more into fields of flowers and small towns, Skagit Valley is calling your name, especially in the spring when the tulips go absolutely wild.
It’s about a 2-hour drive north of Seattle—just jump on I-5 and follow the signs to Mount Vernon, which turns into tulip central every April.
The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is the main event, with endless rows of colorful blooms, cute roadside stands selling fresh pies, and plenty of stunning views.
Even if you miss the tulip season, the valley is packed with cozy farms, antique shops, and super chill places to grab homemade ice cream and fresh berries!
4. Whidbey Island, WA
For a laid-back island adventure without a ton of hassle, Whidbey Island is the perfect easy escape.
You can get there from Seattle in about 1.5 hours by driving north on I-5, hopping off at Mukilteo, and taking a short, scenic ferry ride across the water (yes, you can bring your car!).
Whidbey is packed with charming little towns like Langley and Coupeville, dreamy beaches, forest hikes, and even a historic fort you can explore at Fort Casey State Park.
Pro tip: make time for a seafood feast because the island’s mussels, oysters, and chowder are straight-up legendary.
5. La Conner, WA
If cute waterfront towns are what you’re after then La Conner is the kind of place you’ll want to move into after just one visit.
It’s located along the Swinomish Channel, about an hour and 15 minutes north of Seattle if you stick to I-5 and follow the signs once you hit Mount Vernon.
The downtown is packed with colorful buildings, cozy cafes, art galleries, and even a tiny quilt museum that’s way cooler than it sounds.
Stroll along the boardwalk at sunset for seriously gorgeous views and keep an eye out for the bright red Rainbow Bridge, it’s basically La Conner’s unofficial mascot.
6. Mount Rainier National Park, WA
If you love big mountains, Mount Rainier National Park is an absolute showstopper you’ve got to see up close.
It’s about a 2-hour drive south of Seattle—just hop on I-5, swing onto Highway 7 or 161, and get ready for some jaw-dropping scenery along the way.
Once you’re there, you can hike wildflower-packed trails at Paradise, check out waterfalls like Narada Falls, or just stare in awe at the 14,410-foot snow-covered giant.
Heads up: the weather changes fast here, so throw a jacket in your bag even if it’s sunny when you leave Seattle!
7. Leavenworth, WA
Leavenworth is ready to capture your heart if you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a storybook village.
It’s around a 2-hour drive east of Seattle—you’ll cruise over the Cascade Mountains on Highway 2, with tons of jaw-dropping views along the way.
This Bavarian-style town is packed with alpine buildings, giant pretzels, outdoor beer gardens, and festivals year-round (seriously, they even throw a full-on Christmas lighting party in winter).
In the warmer months, you can float the Wenatchee River, hike in the surrounding mountains, or just chill out with a giant bratwurst and a root beer float.
8. Hurricane Ridge, Olympic National Park, WA
For stunning mountain views without the intense hike, Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park will have you grinning from ear to ear.
It takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to get there from Seattle—you’ll hop on a ferry to Bainbridge Island, drive across the Kitsap Peninsula, and head up the winding road from Port Angeles.
Once you’re at the top, you’ll get 360-degree views of snow-capped peaks, wildflower meadows, and even spot a few deer just casually hanging out by the parking lot.
Pro tip: bring layers because it can feel like summer at the bottom and full-on winter once you’re standing at the ridge.
9. Portland, OR
In the mood for a weird city adventure? Portland, Oregon is totally worth the trip.
It’s about a 3-hour drive south of Seattle on I-5, and trust me, the miles fly by when you’re chasing doughnuts, coffee, and epic food trucks.
Once you’re there, you can wander through the giant Powell’s City of Books, snack your way through food cart pods and maybe even spot a unicycling Darth Vader (yes, really).
Plus, if you love gardens, don’t miss the super peaceful Japanese Garden and the famous International Rose Test Garden, filled with thousands of roses.
10. Bridal Veil Falls, OR
Bridal Veil Falls in the Columbia River Gorge is pure magic.
It’s only about 30 minutes east of downtown Portland on I-84, and the short, shady hike to the falls is easy enough for pretty much anyone to enjoy.
The waterfall itself drops in two tiers and looks like something straight out of a fantasy movie, especially when the mist catches the sunlight.
There’s also a cliffside viewpoint nearby where you can soak up sweeping views of the gorge and feel like you’re on top of the world.
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