Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a homebody in need of adventure, there are many places you’ve probably never been to before. So on your next family outing or romantic getaway, why not go somewhere unique?
We’ve compiled a list of five cool places in Washington state you’ve probably never heard of. These hidden gems are sure to give you the adventure to remember. Keep reading to find your next adventure!
Visit These Cool Places in Washington State!
1. Soap Lake
Soap Lake is no ordinary lake! You can visit this attraction to hike, swim or kayak. However, you might miss the main attraction—the lake. Soap Lake has one of the highest mineral counts in the world. The lake is home to 23 different minerals that have healing effects on the body.
Whether you decide to take a dip in the water or lather yourself with its mud, the minerals can rejuvenate your skin and improve skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. In addition, high mineral content can improve arthritis symptoms and aid bacterial and fungal infections. Whether you want a natural treatment for a condition or you simply want to relax at a luxury natural spa, Soap Lake is the place for you!
Moreover, when you visit Soap Lake, you can stay at Soap Lake Resort. To complement the healing effects of the lake, the resort promotes a holistically healthy lifestyle. They do this by providing healthy menu options, outdoor activities, and plenty of relaxation. Book your stay at this cool place in Washington state today!
2. Maryhill Stonehenge
Maryhill Stonehenge by Shawn Stilwell licensed by CC BY-NC 2.0
Stonehenge dates back over 5,000 years and is one of the best known ancient wonders of the world! However, the famous structure resides all the way in England. Nonetheless, Washington State is home to its own rendition of Stonehenge. Maryhill Stonehenge was completed in 1918 and depicts a full-size replica of the original ancient structure.
While England’s Stonehenge is severely eroded with many stones missing, in Maryhill, you have the chance to experience Stonehenge as it would have looked 5,000 years ago! The only discrepancies are
the concrete used to hold the stone together, the three-degrees positioning difference, and a five-degree difference in latitude.
However, this structure wasn’t built just for ancient history’s sake. Maryhill’s Stonehenge is actually the nation’s first World War I memorial, representing the nation’s heroism and peace.
3. International Peace Arch
Peace Arch International Park by Jasperdo licensed by CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
Have you ever wanted to stand in two countries at once with no passport?
The International Peace Arch on the border between Canada and Washington is just the place!. The area may look like a typical park if you happened to pass through. However, the south side of the park is owned by Washington State Parks and the northern half is owned by British Columbia Provincial Historic Places.
The 67-foot white arch at the in the middle of the park was erected to honor the centennial of when the treaties were signed as a result of the War of 1812. Take a stroll through the lush gardens, manicured lawn, and fun playground. Just make sure you exit through the entrance you came in from! Otherwise, you’ll end up in another country!
4. Blue Lake Rhino Cave
Photo courtesy of historylink.org
Just 25 miles north of Soap Lake is the amazing Blue Lake Rhino Cave.
About 15 million years ago, a rhinoceros died and its body floated upside down in a shallow lake until molten basalt rock flowed into the water and settled around it. As basalt continued to flow down the river, it built up layers on top of the rhino and preserved its form. In 1935, a group of friends was exploring the area when they came upon the oddly-shaped cave.
Eventually, a plaster mold was made of the cave to determine the size and shape of the animal. Currently, the mold is on display in Burke Museum, as well as a replica of the rhino-shaped cave.
However, you can visit the original location of the unique cave in Grant County.
5. Light Rail’s “Lightsticks”
Photo courtesy of blog.echelon.com
Daydreamers, beware! If you happen to ride the Seattle light rail under Beacon Hill, you might think you are hallucinating.
Artist Bill Bell created a two-mile-long LED light display in the dark tunnel. These lights flash at one-thirtieth of a second, creating images of playing cards, naval signal flags, insects, and words. This marvel is a unique combination of art and science. If you dose off, you might just miss it!
Plan Your Visit Today!
With so many cool places in Washington state to see, a grand adventure is surely awaiting you! Plan your visit to Soap Lake Resort or one of these other awesome locations today to get started!