Washington is home to some of the most incredible natural wonders. With vibrant greenery, beautiful waterfalls, and magical sights, Washington is the place to go!
This article outlines unique experiences in Washington state. First, you will see all the unique places to visit. Then, you’ll learn all about the unique places to stay in Washington.
You won’t want to miss out on these incredible locations!
Unique Places to Visit in Washington State
Washington State is much more than evergreens and The Space Needles. Here are seven unique places to visit in Washington State!
Soap Lake
One of the unique experiences in Washington state involves visiting the state’s only natural mineral lake! Located between Seattle and Spokane, Soap Lake is known as ‘nature’s spa’ and has drawn in visitors from all over the world.
The lake’s mineral-rich water and mud are known to have healing properties, medicinal powers, and beauty benefits. In fact, this lake has the highest natural mineral count in the world!
Aside from indulging in luxurious DIY mud baths and face masks, visitors can enjoy swimming, paddle boarding, and kayaking.
Palouse Falls State Park
Palouse Falls, Washington State Park by Tom Collins licensed by CC BY-ND 2.0
All Washingtonians and visitors to the region should see Palouse Falls State Park at least once in their lifetime. Carved over 13,000 years ago, Palouse Falls is one of the last active waterfalls on the Ice Age floods path. The park itself is 105 acres and offers tent camping, picnic areas, and fantastic bird watching. Further, the park offers three distinct views of the falls. Whether or not you’re up for a short hike or want to view it from the parking lot, the falls are a sight to see!
Potholes State Park
Photo courtesy of parks.state.wa.us
The Potholes are the defining geologic feature in Potholes State Park. These little lakes are welcoming to boaters, fishers, and swimmers alike. The year-round fishing is superb, but if you would rather be in the water, visit in the summer! If you bring a sleeping bag, this is a great place to sleep under the stars. Or, you can rent a cute cabin in the campground. Either way, you will have a great time and learn about the natural history and geology at this great Washington state park.
Little Pend Oreille National Wildlife Refuge
Photo courtesy of fws.gov
Nestled in the foothills of the Cascades and the Rocky Mountains, this unique forested Refuge provides habitat for larger mammals and over 200 migratory songbirds. The Little Pend Oreille National Wildlife Refuge was founded to protect and provide a breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife, such as bear, cougar, deer, and moose. Recreational activities include hiking, camping, hunting, bicycling, cross-country skiing, and more!
The Gorge Amphitheater
The Gorge Ampitheater by Apete licensed by CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
Gorge Amphitheater is known as one of America’s premier outdoor concert venues. Located just above the Columbia River in the small town of George, the venue can host over 20,000 people. The venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music and several popular music festivals. Even if you aren’t attending a show, we recommend taking in the grand view of the venue and river.
Woodward Canyon Winery
Woodward Canyon Winery by Keith Ewing licensed by CC BY-NC 2.0
Woodward Canyon Winery is a family-owned winery that produces premium wines from their sustainable, organic vineyard. Not only is this Walla Walla vineyard beautiful, but picturesque gardens also surround the tasting room. When visiting, you are welcome to bring your lunch and have a picnic on their grounds. For tastings, they offer flights and wine by the glass and bottle.
Mt. Spokane
Spokane from Mt. Spokane by David Lewis licensed by CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
If you are visiting eastern Washington, you have likely seen Mt. Spokane. It is one of the tallest peaks in the area and has over 13,000 acres perfect for camping, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. If you visit in the summer, you can enjoy skiing, berry picking, and the world’s’ first double chairlift. However, if you visit in the winter, you will find over 300 inches of snow — perfect for every winter activity you can think of!
Unique Places to Stay in Washington State
We have all been there – open up a booking website, find a decently rated hotel for our weekend getaway, and click book. But, what if your lodging could be as exciting as the rest of your vacation? To make your trip truly unforgettable, we recommend finding a destination hotel rather than just a “place to sleep.” From vintage trailers and treehouses to healing destinations and Bavarian-inspired inns, you would be surprised at all of the unique places to stay in Washington State!
Next time you start planning your vacation, instead of booking a random hotel, book an experience with these six unique places to stay within Washington State.
Photo courtesy of booking.com
Nestled in Union, Washington, is the Hood Canal, which is located on the foothills of the Olympic Mountains. If you want to get out of the city and reconnect with nature, Robin Hood Village Resort is the place for you! During your stay, rent a complimentary kayak and head off onto the canal. Also, check out their oyster picking program. Don’t like oysters? They can also take you shrimping!
Start Planning Your Getaway!
Want to have unique experiences in Washington state? Start by planning which places you would like to visit and where you would like to stay.
When you stay in Soap Lake, you have access to the incredible natural healing waters of the lake, the luxury resort, a delicious bistro, and tons of fun activities on-site and nearby! In this ultimate travel guide to Soap Lake, you’ll learn all about the cool things you can do in the town of Soap Lake.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!