Washington is the Evergreen State, for good reason. Home to temperate rainforests, the frequent rains allow lush trees to thrive. With several military installations including Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Naval Base Bremerton, Naval Station Everett, and Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, there are plenty of places to call home. While there, be sure to make the most of the Pacific Northwest with these recommendations.
Be a tourist in Seattle
Known as the Emerald City, Seattle is famous as the birthplace of grunge music and the home to the Space Needle. Take a weekend to explore the sites. Be sure to stop by Pike Place Market for some true Seattle flair and visit the first Starbucks location. There are also several fun museums for the whole family, including the Museum of Pop Culture or The Museum of Flight.
Visit Mount Rainier
Standing at 14,410 feet, Mount Rainier is a stunning white-capped peak in an already gorgeous landscape. With over 270 miles of maintained trails and 147 miles of roads, there is plenty to explore on foot, or by car. The park is especially busy in July and August, so plan your timing to be a little less congested.
Take a ferry ride
If you’ve watched Grey’s Anatomy or Maid, you know that Washington State is home to a robust ferry system. You can drive or walk on to the ferries depending on your plans. The ferries often have a galley serving snacks and beverages. Popular ferry destinations include Whidbey Island, Klinton, Bainbridge Island, Vashon Island, and more!
Cruise to the San Juan Islands
Located in the Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands are a series of small, temperate islands, each with its own feel. In the summer, there are whale-watching cruises that travel through the islands, and there are ferries year-round to get to each island. Whether you plan a day trip or a weekend away, expect ocean views and eclectic locals.
Wine taste in Woodinville
As a Sonoma County native, it pains me to say this, but Washington has great wine. Woodinville is a cute town with four wine-tasting districts and hundreds of varietals to try. In the summer, Chateau St. Michelle hosts live music for a fun evening under the stars.
Pop into Canada
Canada is a relatively easy drive from many of the military bases in Washington, with Vancouver not too far from the border. The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a crowd favorite, or White Rock Beach is a fun beach town in the summer months. Skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts may also want to take a longer trek North to Whistler, with a quaint chalet-style downtown and plenty of activities for young and old.
Pretend you’re in Twin Peaks at Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie Falls is one of the natural wonders of Washington. It was the site to the cult classic show Twin Peaks, and fans of the show can visit Twede’s Cafe, where many iconic scenes were filmed. Even those who have never seen the quirky show will enjoy the majestic falls, and visitors can stay right on the falls at the Salish Lodge.
Play your hand at a casino
Washington is home to many Native American tribes, several of which have opened large gaming casinos. No matter where you’re stationed in Washington, there should be at least one large casino, fully loaded with slots and table games within a relatively short drive. Some casinos also host family-friendly activities like bowling and kids’ arcades.
Celebrate the holidays in Leavenworth
Leavenworth is set up as an idyllic Bavarian village near the center of the state. You can visit Leavenworth anytime and find fun activities such as eating schnitzel and tasting beer, wine and spirits, but Leavenworth really shines each December. The whole downtown glows with twinkling lights and there are holiday-themed activities like feeding reindeer. The whole town feels like it’s been touched with holiday magic that will even make the grinchiest among us feel some Christmas cheer.