Scenic Stories
Our staff of intrepid travel writers are out beating the bush and looking around every corner to find the people and stories that will make you want to pack up the car and hit the road. These are first hand accounts of our experiences and we sincerely hope you will read them; comment on them and share your own experiences but most of all, that they will inspire you to explore the rural and urban highlights of Washington State.
Axe-citement Awaits! Mason County Forest Festival Brings the Fun with Parades, Pancakes, and Prevention
Mason County Forest Festival begins May 29, featuring parades, family fun, logging contests, and wildfire awareness events all weekend. Read More
Discover Pullman: Where Scenic Beauty Meets Small-Town Charm
Pullman, a charming college town in southeast Washington, offers scenic drives, seasonal beauty, and easy access to breathtaking landscapes. Read More
Soak in the Local Vibes Along Port Orchard’s Charming Waterfront
Port Orchard offers scenic shoreline, unique shops, and tight-knit neighborhoods—blending waterfront charm with a welcoming sense of community. Read More
Exploring Skagit Valley Beyond the Tulip Festival
Each spring, Skagit Valley bursts into color as tulips bloom. While the tulips are stunning, they’re just one part of what makes this valley special. Read More
Experience the Magic of Lake Chelan Winterfest
Lake Chelan Winterfest promises a chance to experience fire and ice along with the enchanting beauty of north central Washington. Read More
Weekend Weddings at Mike’s Beach Resort and Iliana’s Glamping Village with Pine & Tide Events
Imagine saying “I do” surrounded by nature’s splendor, where lush forests meet the calming shores of Hood Canal. Read More
It's Back! Westport South Beach Historical Society Brings You #wildfloats2025!
Between November 2024 and April 30, 2025, the WSBHS will release one thousand glass fishing floats to be discovered by lucky beachcombers! Read More
Capture the Magic of the Season in Christmastown!
Capture the magic of the season in the Christmas tree capital of the world! Shelton, Washington earned that distinction by producing the best trees. Read More
Road Trip Series: Explore the Mt. Baker Scenic Byway
Winding past waterfalls and old-growth forests, this 58-mile trek ends at the base of a 10,781-foot volcano! Discover the Mt. Baker Scenic Byway. Read More
Wintertime fun in Republic, Washington
Winterfest offers a day filled with family friendly activities including a parade, outhouse races, snow sculpting, and more! Read More
Home Away From Home: A Stay at the Red Lion Hotel in Port Angeles
Located on the shores of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the Red Lion Hotel Port Angeles is the perfect place to stay and explore the Olympic Peninsula. Read More
A Quiet Coast Awaits: Visiting Westport in Fall
Westport takes on a quiet, almost mystical charm in the off season that beckons to those seeking a quiet getaway to the beach. Read More
Craft Beverages and More in Kenmore
In the heart of Kenmore, a vibrant and growing food and drink scene is brewing - literally. Brewer's Row and the town square are the places to go! Read More
Exploring the Parks and Trails of Kenmore, Washington
Kenmore, situated on the northernmost shore of Lake Washington, is a small town packed with opportunities for outdoor recreation. Read More
Taking Flight with Kenmore Air
Known for its unique attractions, Kenmore has something for every kind of traveler. From historic lodging to hiking trails, Kenmore has it all! Read More
Where History and Luxury Meet in Kenmore
Tucked along the northern edge of Lake Washington, Kenmore is a hidden gem where nature and community life intertwine. Read More
Raise a Glass at the Anacortes Beer Festival: A Celebration of Craft Brews and Local Flavor!
The Anacortes Bier Near the Pier Beer Festival is a lively annual event held in the scenic waterfront town of Anacortes, Washington. Read More
Shell-ebrating in Shelton: OysterFest Serves Up Fun, Flavor, and Fresh Seafood Delights
OysterFest is a chance to indulge in oysters at the peak of their season, and to experience fresh seafood that the Pacific Northwest is known for. Read More
Razor Clamming on the Washington Coast: Final 2024 Dates Announced
Picture yourself on the edge of the Pacific, waves lapping at your boots, alongside fellow diggers all focused on one thing: razor clams! Read More
Jack is back at Whistlin' Jack's Lodge & Outpost!
Whistlin’ Jack’s Outpost & Lodge is an historic, peaceful getaway tucked along the Naches River on the Chinook Pass Scenic Byway. Read More
Journey Through Autumn's Splendor: A Fall Road Trip Along Washington's White Pass Scenic Byway
Autumn along the White Pass Scenic Byway is a captivating experience, where the calm of the season takes hold as crowds quiet and traffic fades. Read More
Celebrate Oktoberfest in Kenmore
Beer lovers rejoice! The community of Kenmore, Washington is buzzing with excitement as they prepare to host their very first annual Oktoberfest. Read More
Road Trip Series: Explore the Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway
Towering evergreens give way to expansive ocean views, where each curve in the road reveals a new breathtaking scene along Chuckanut Drive. Read More
Discover a Fall Foodie Paradise in Bellingham and Whatcom County
Fall in the Pacific Northwest means cool weather, vibrant colors, and delicious autumn harvests that make for an unforgettable experience. Read More
Explore Grant County: Your Gateway to Adventure and Culture
Known for spectacular natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities, Grant County in Eastern Washington is fun in all seasons. Read More
Visit Camas and Washougal for Small Town Charm
Discover small town charm and scenic beauty in Camas and Washougal, located along the Columbia River Gorge. Read More
Two Ways to Explore the Charms of Bainbridge Island
Sparkling water, lush gardens, dense forests and country roads crisscross Bainbridge Island, just a 35-minute ferry ride from Seattle. Read More
Discover the North Cascades with Skagit Tours
Experience the jaw-dropping beauty of Diablo Lake on a fun, interactive experience with Skagit Tours. Read More
Discover the Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trail
Glow-in-the-dark plankton, whales, and plate-sized donuts are just a few of the wonders you’ll find along the Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trail Read More
Shucking Oysters With a Legend
Last fall I got to spend a day shucking and preparing oysters with local legend, Xinh Dwelley. She shared her joyful spirit and love of seafood! Read More
A Weekend Getaway to Sun Mountain Lodge
There is a special place perched high on a mountain in the Methow Valley. Sun Mountain Lodge offers luxury at the edge of the wilderness. Read More
Roadtripping on the Thurston Bountiful Byway
There’s a place just south of Olympia where the road winds through scenic prairieland and bucolic pastures in the shadow of Mt. Rainier. Read More
Anacortes Bier on the Pier and the Charms of Fall
As the days grow shorter and a cool breeze begins to sweep through the Pacific Northwest, there's no better time to experience the charm of Anacortes. Read More
Embrace the New and Classic Experiences at Sun Mountain Lodge
With the arrival of fall, Sun Mountain Lodge beckons you to experience the season’s beauty and excitement in a new light. Read More
Two Days Exploring the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway
Thick forest hugs the roadside as you travel the Columbia Gorge Scenic Byway. This is the place for waterfall hikes, wine sips, and starry nights. Read More
Experience Peak Hygge and Abundant Nature in Bellingham
Grab your beanies, pull on your puffy coat, and prepare for a storybook Pacific Northwest vacation this fall. Read More
See History Come Alive at the Northwest Colonial Festival
Step back in time to the year 1775 to experience living history with a colonial village and daily reenactments of iconic skirmishes of America's past. Read More
Visit Spokane, Washington
Unbeatable views, award-winning cuisine and beer, and the best outdoor recreation nature has to offer. Welcome to Spokane, Washington. Read More
18th Annual Bluegrass From the Forest
Celebrate 18 years of Bluegrass From The Forest! Enjoy camping, jamming, workshops and national bluegrass bands at this year's outdoor event. Read More
Discover the REACH Museum
From the Ice Age floods to the Atomic Age, the REACH Museum focuses on the cultural and historical significance of the mid-Columbia Basin region. Read More
Glamping on Hood Canal
Tucked into the forest along Hood Canal is a fantastical Glamping Village, offering a one-of-a-kind alternative to traditional hotel stays. Read More
Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins - a getaway on the Columbia River Gorge
Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins is a lodging experience unlike any other. Private cabins featuring wonderful, luxe amenities that make for a dream getaway! Read More
Twisp, Washington: the heart of the Methow Valley
Discover Twisp, a colorful and eclectic artists haven in North Central Washington. Spring is a great time to explore Twisp! Read More
Explore the Cascade Loop National Scenic Byway
Don't miss the Cascade Loop National Scenic Byway - it is a 440 mile love letter to Washington praising her natural beauty and charisma. Read More
Re-imagining Ancient Japanese Art with a Modern Eye
Katazome Today is a delightful exhibit showcasing the traditional katazome technique with endless possibilities for contemporary artistic expressions. Read More
Winter Fun in Northeast Washington
Grab the kids and bundle up because January 14th marks the return of Winterfest to Republic! This is a family friendly event in Northeast Washington. Read More
Holiday Fun in the Christmas Tree Capital of the World!
Capture the magic of the season in the Christmas tree capital of the world! Shelton, Washington earned that distinction by producing the best trees. Read More
Celebrate the Holiday Season in Anacortes
Explore Anacortes during the holiday season for a variety of fun festivities for the entire month of December! Read More
The Hive of the Methow: The Buzz About Twisp
In a travel landscape that’s increasingly focused on posting to social media and harvesting likes, Twisp is a welcome dose of authenticity. Read More
The Return of OysterFest on Hood Canal!
Shelton is home to exceptional shellfish producers, and OysterFest celebrates the local farms that have cultivated clams and oysters for generations. Read More
Explore Camas and Washougal
Find small town charm and scenic beauty in Camas and Washougal, located along the Columbia River Gorge. Read More
Discover the Thurston Bountiful Byway
Discover the Thurston Bountiful Byway, an agricultural corridor that stretches between the Nisqually Valley and the Capitol Forest near Olympia. Read More
Discover the Peak of the Northwest
Visit Bellingham and Whatcom County for outdoor recreation, farm-fresh dining, adorable seaside communities, and unique cultural experiences. Read More
Westport's Fresh Catch: Salmon
Feast on the bounty of the sea in Westport! Salmon is the most favored seafood landed on shore and is a delicious choice for visitors to enjoy. Read More
Fall Roadtrip Along the White Pass Scenic Byway
Autumn on the White Pass Scenic Byway is endlessly engaging. Crowds and traffic have dissipated, yet the bounty of the season lingers on. Read More
Bluegrass Festival on Hood Canal
Celebrate 17 years of Bluegrass From The Forest! Enjoy camping, jamming, workshops and national bluegrass bands at this year's outdoor event. Read More
Explore the Chinook Scenic Byway
Recognized as a premier PNW driving tour, the Chinook Scenic Byway travels from rolling hills into the Cascade Mountains, and iconic Mount Rainier. Read More
Fishing on the Columbia River
The Columbia River is an undeniable presence during any adventure along Washington's southern border. Scenic beauty abounds, and the fishing is good! Read More
Crystal Mountain Offers Endless Summer Fun!
With scenic gondola rides, mountaintop dining, hiking, and a close proximity to Mount Rainier, Crystal makes for a great getaway during summertime! Read More
Discover Ocean Shores
Nothing beats falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing on the shore. Canterbury Inn at Ocean Shores provides that lullaby every night. Read More
Westport's Fresh Catch: Albacore Tuna
A major portion of the North Pacific albacore tuna fleet delivers their catch in Westport, WA! Treat yourself to the fresh catch, right off the boat. Read More
Washington's Stunning Southeast Corner
The rolling wheat hills of the Palouse region are a photographer’s dream. Magnificent buttes give way to panoramic views and an endless horizon. Read More
Discover North Central Washington
Explore the wild spaces of north central Washington, where wilderness embraces much of the region and outdoor adventure awaits. Read More
Get Carried Away At Northwest Carriage Museum
Northwest Carriage Museum Celebrates 20 Years of Transporting Visitors Back in Time! Don't miss the fabulous display of over 50 carriages and buggies. Read More
Summertime Happenings in Everett
Everett sits on the shores of sparkling Puget Sound with a gorgeous Cascade Mountain backdrop. There's a little something for everyone in Everett! Read More
Hood Canal Fjordin Crossin
Fjordin Crossin celebrates an old world Scandinavian aquavit tradition. See how the tradition continues in Hood Canal. Read More
Celebrate Timber Heritage in Matlock, WA
The Old Timers Historical Fair celebrates Washington's timber heritage in the tiny town of Matlock on Hood Canal. Read More
From Seashore to Sea Floor at the Mermaid Museum
Immerse yourself in mermaid lore and discover the mysteries from the seashore to sea floor at the International Mermaid Museum in Westport. Read More
Lake Chelan Winterfest
Lake Chelan Winterfest has mastered the magical combo of fire and ice, welcoming the New Year with a two-weekend-long celebration each January. Read More
Winter Adventures in Westport
Winds roar as waves slam against the break wall, covering visitors with a salty spray. It must be king tide season on Washington's coast! Read More
Discover the Christmas Tree Capital of the World!
They’re dusting off the tinsel in Christmastown and it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Read More
Go Razor Clamming in Westport!
Any time there’s a razor clam dig on Washington’s coast, thousands of people gear up and head west to chase the tide out and get their clam on! Read More
See Who's Flocking to Westport
Westport is known for many things – world class fishing, clam digging, beaches and surfing - but birding has literally flown under the radar! Read More
Treasure Hunt on the Olympic Peninsula!
Discover new places on the Olympic Peninsula this fall with a carefully designed GeoTour of the region. Read More
Discover Northwest Washington with Rick Steves
When travel host Rick Steves, couldn’t get on a plane, his adventurous spirit still found a way. See how he didn't need to travel far to get away. Read More
Exploring Tacoma
Tacoma is under the radar cool. A waterfront city with surprises around every corner, Tacoma mixes urban-cool with arts and culture. Read More
Getaway to Ocean Shores
There’s something special about Washington’s Coast. Wide open spaces, grass covered dunes and the lulling sound of waves welcome visitors year-round. Read More
Exploring the White Pass Scenic Byway
The White Pass Scenic Byway is a recreational paradise in the shadow of the tri-mountain panorama of Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, and Mt. Adams. Read More
Westport's Fresh Catch
With its long history as a commercial fishing town and chartering hotspot, Westport has a bounty for anyone who wants to enjoy fresh seafood. Read More
Fish On in Westport!
Westport is the place where phenomenal fishing collides with locally sourced seafood, making for the ultimate Pacific Northwest fishing experience. Read More
Bluegrass From The Forest
Celebrate 16 years of Bluegrass From The Forest! Enjoy camping, jamming, workshops and national bluegrass bands at this year's outdoor event. Read More
Exploring Everett
Everett is an All-American city with a one-of-a-kind personality, discover the best things to do in this fun and funky waterfront city. Read More
Take the Fast Ferry to Slow Down on Blake Island
Taking a ferry is a quintessential Washington experience. There is just something special about cruising through Puget Sound, windblown hair and all. Read More
Summer Happenings on Hood Canal
As summer heats up and pandemic restrictions relax, communities around Hood Canal are gently phasing back some of their much loved traditions. Read More
Two Days Exploring Mt. Rainier
It doesn’t always take me four hours to drive 35-miles, but when it does, you better believe it’s because I’m road-trippin! Read More
A Timeless Trip to Hood Canal
From riding historic timber rails to harvesting oysters at a 70-year-old family-run resort, see why Hood Canal is a timeless Washington destination. Read More
Explore Vibrant Vancouver
Enjoy breathtaking views and breathing room in Vancouver, Washington. Read More
Forest Festival and Timber Days on Hood Canal
Discover Washington's rich logging history on Hood Canal, a place that has been referred to as the 'Christmas Tree Capital of the World!' Read More
Discover The Palouse Scenic Byway
Take a drive and explore 208-miles of scenic roadways and charming communities along the Palouse Scenic Byway. Read More
Skagit Valley Winter Birding At Its Best
Grab your camera and binoculars and head to the Skagit Valley and La Conner for an authentic and spectacular winter birding experience. Read More
Dog Days in Seattle Southside
Grab your best friend and head out for some tail-waggin-fun in Seattle Southside! Read More
Friday Harbor Whale Museum
Spotting an orca whale is the ultimate PNW experience! For a guaranteed sighting, head to The Whale Museum. Read More
Discovering Outdoor Art in Seattle Southside
Exploring Seattle Southside's public art is perfect free-form fun for a fall or winter afternoon. Read More
Summer Ride to Seattle Southside
Discover Seattle Southside as we journey with a couple on their bike-camping adventure from downtown Seattle to Saltwater State Park. Read More
Railriding...I Think I Can, I Think I Can!
It’s inevitable. At some point on your Vance Creek Railriders adventure, you’ll start saying to yourself ‘I think I can, I think I can, I think I can… Read More
Summer is Better in Seattle Southside
Seattle Southside brings the outdoor fun with getaways that’ll take you from s’mores by the beach to flowers beneath a flight path. Read More
Wings Over Water Festival in Blaine
When you feel the first breath of spring, grab your binoculars and cameras and head to the northwest corner of WA for an amazing birding spectacle. Read More
Winter Wonderland in the Methow Valley
The Methow Valley is a winter wonderland that draws vacationers and recreationists to a high-desert climate famous for dry snow and bluebird days. Read More
Celebrate the Sun in Sequim, Washington
The beginning of March is the perfect time to shake off those winter blues and celebrate the sun at the Sequim Sunshine Festival! Read More
Holiday Fun on Hood Canal
What is your idea of the perfect Christmas getaway? You may find it on Hood Canal. Read More
Fall Roadtrip: Go Chasing Waterfalls
In Olympic National Park, getting up to 170 inches of rain per year, waterfall adventuring is a favorite hobby and a great excuse for a getaway. Read More
It's Oysterfest Time In Shelton
The weather has cooled, the asphalt smells of rain, and the tides are high. To a third generation oyster farmer, this means two things... Read More
Adventure Sail on the Tall Ship Lady Washington
The Lady Washington is a 30-year old replica of the original ship that was named in honor of Martha Washington. Read More
It's Picture Perfect in the Palouse
With rich, rolling farmlands, vivid colors and incredible contrasts, the Palouse is a photographers dream and a visitor’s delight. Read More
Pedal Historic Timber Rails
We’ve always been taught to never play on the tracks but there is one place in Mason County where it is perfectly OK — in fact encouraged! Read More
A Springtime Jaunt to the Methow
When I ask Sun Mountain Lodge Executive Chef Tyler Krost how he came to the Methow Valley, he simply says, “It was love at first sight.” Read More
Peninsula Waterfalls: Hear the Roar, Feel the Spray
The prospect of seeing not just ONE but a MULTITUDE of waterfalls on the Olympic Peninsula, was all I needed to plan a spring road trip. Read More
Everything's Beachy on Washington's Pacific Coast
Sometimes you are lucky enough to stumble on places as remote and breathtaking as the Washington Coast simply by taking an unexpected turn. Read More
Moss, giant spruce and yes... rain!
Driving hubs-deep through the river rippling over State Route 109 on the way to the Quinault Rainforest felt badass. Read More
Walla Walla: From Wheat to Wine
Until the 1970s, there were exactly zero wineries in Walla Walla. Then one fateful night... Read More
Beargrass, Bluegrass and Whiskey
With Hood Canal's rich cultural and artistic vibe it would seem there is a muse in this coastal microclimate... Read More
Historic Campbell's Resort on Lake Chelan
Sometimes you just need to get out town. That’s precisely what led C.C. Campbell to build historic Campbell’s Resort on Lake Chelan 118 years ago. Read More
Ice Age Floods in Washington State
Like nowhere else on Earth, the dramatic landscape of eastern Washington is founded in colossal floods. Read More
Blaine's Wings over Water Birding Festival
When winter loosens its grip on western Washington, it’s the time of year when millions of migratory birds visit Blaine's local beaches. Read More
Seattle NorthCountry: Land of Loops
Seattle NorthCountry is an adventurer's dream, a series of cityscapes, towering treelines, curling tendrils of fog and a confluence of rural highways. Read More
Hood Canal's Winter Embrace
In the last few weeks the Olympic Range has been sporting a new blanket of snow, beckoning visitors to come closer and feel its winter embrace. Read More
Fairhaven's Winterfest Lights Up the Season
The Historic Fairhaven Association saw the potential of an old-fashioned holiday celebration in this Victorian-era Village on Bellingham Bay. Read More
Columbia River Gorge: Come visit the land of Bigfoot
The Gorge is a destination for all seasons, but autumn brings with it a special beauty adding amazing fall colors to its scenic vistas. Read More
OysterFest on Hood Canal
Hood Canal communities are getting ready to celebrate OysterFest, the largest seafood festival in the state. Read More
Bellingham: Eat Local Month, Culinary Loop
Bellingham and surrounding small towns have long been home to fishers, farmers and food artisans. September is a great time to savor the harvest. Read More
Discover Mukilteo: Stay, Play, Dine
Home to the 1906 Mukilteo Light Station, Mukilteo has quaint shopping areas, museums, waterfront dining and lodging. Read More
Some quality time exploring Bothell
Bothell is a little slice of heaven, giving you the best of both worlds; a green open rural feel mixed with a positive urban vibe in the downtown core Read More
The Sequim Lavender Experience
Spend a day in the open air, surrounded by blue sky, sea breeze and the whisper scent of lavender... ten farms in sunny Sequim are ready for you. Read More
5 Great Reasons to Tour the International Selkirk Loop
The International Selkirk Loop is a 280-mile scenic road winding around the breathtaking Selkirk Mountains of Washington, Idaho, and British Columbia. Read More
Clallam County's Coastal Parks
A 15-minute drive west of Port Angeles you'll find one of the most spectacular stretches of highway you’ve ever dreamed about. Read More
Walla Walla: The Unofficial Capital of Wine Country
Walla Walla is home to more than 120 wineries, a nationally recognized culinary scene with access to an abundance of outdoor recreation. Read More
If you haven't been to Lynden... it's time
Charming storefronts and hanging flower baskets line Front Street; but this farming community’s award-winning main street has more than meets the eye. Read More
Camas & Washougal: Gateway to the Gorge
The communities of Camas and Washougal offer an abundance of small town charm and scenic natural beauty to explore. Read More
Twisp: The heart of the Methow Valley
Springtime arrives in the Methow Valley with a virtual explosion of Technicolor balsam root blanketing it’s rolling hills and beckoning nature lovers. Read More
Gig Harbor: Washington's Maritime City
There may be no better place to welcome the return of long summer days than Gig Harbor, tucked at the southern end of the Kitsap Peninsula. Read More
Kitsap Peninsula: The Ideal Weekend Destination
Kitsap Peninsula... it’s in the name. You know instinctively that this place is remote yet connected. Read More
Exploring Historic Downtown Seattle
Downtown bicycle and walking tours are a great way to connect with Seattle's history, people and culture. Read More
Girlfriends' Getaway to Woodinville
Woodinville, with its 100-plus wineries and tasting rooms, is the perfect girlfriends getaway remedy for the winter blahs. Read More
Let Everett Surprise You
One of Washington’s best kept secrets, the city of Everett is blossoming with cafes, museums, brewpubs and galleries. Read More
Winthrop: Washington's Snowy Paradise
Winthrop is home to North America’s largest cross-country ski area, with over 120 miles of perfectly groomed cross-country ski trails. Read More
Hiking in Grays Harbor is For The Birds
The second larges estuary in Washington State, Grays Harbor is a rich biological ecosystem influenced by the Pacific Ocean and the Chehalis River. Read More
Everybody Loves Raymond
Of course everybody loves Raymond… and why wouldn't they? It's a wonderful place to visit—especially if you're looking for historical getaways. Read More
A Visit to Sun Mountain Lodge
Washington State's premier destination resort. Sun Mountain Lodge located in the Pacific Northwest offers mountaintop lodging at its finest. Read More