The Best Places to Visit in Washington by Month: A Year-Round Travel Guide

A vibrant collage capturing the diverse seasons of Washington State, showcasing blooming spring flowers, lush summer landscapes, colorful autumn foliage, and snow-capped winter mountains.

Washington State is a land of dramatic seasons and even more dramatic landscapes. From coastal escapes to mountain adventures, every month offers something different. If you’ve ever wondered where to go and when, this guide has you covered. Here’s a month-by-month look at the best places to visit in Washington by month.

The crowded streets of Leavenworth on a cold afternoon. Photo credit by Rosalie Barley.

January – Leavenworth for Winter Magic

Start your year in a Bavarian-style wonderland. Leavenworth in January is still wrapped in holiday lights, with snowy streets, sleigh rides, and cozy cabin vibes. It’s also a great time for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing near Lake Wenatchee.

Mount Rainier during sunset. Photo credit by Caleb Riston.

February – Mount Rainier for Snow Adventures

While Mount Rainier National Park’s Paradise area is buried in snow, that’s exactly the point. February is perfect for snowshoeing or sledding with a backdrop of one of the most iconic peaks in the Pacific Northwest.

A lone deer in a meadow with the Olympic Mountains in the background. Photo credit to journey_so_far on IG.

March – Olympic National Park for Storm Watching

As spring begins to stir, head to the Washington coast. March is prime time for storm watching in places like Kalaloch and Rialto Beach, where dramatic skies meet crashing waves.

Beautiful orange tulip flowers in Skagit Valley. Photo credit by herrys on IG.

April – Skagit Valley for Tulip Season

Fields of vibrant tulips stretch across the Skagit Valley in April. Visit Mount Vernon for the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival and enjoy one of the most colorful springtime experiences in the state.

The Lime Kiln Lighthouse in Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. Photo credit by ryanstonedesign on IG.

May – San Juan Islands for Whale Watching

As the weather warms, orcas return to the Salish Sea. May is a great time to explore the San Juan Islands—Friday Harbor, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island—all ideal for spotting whales, kayaking, and enjoying peaceful island life before the summer crowds.

Sunrise over North Cascades National Park. Photo credit by Adam Rogulijic.

June – North Cascades for Early Alpine Hikes

Snow begins to melt, opening access to lower elevation hikes in the North Cascades. This underrated national park is stunning in June with waterfalls, wildflowers, and glacial lakes—plus, fewer visitors than Mount Rainier.

Overlooking the beachfront of Lake Chelan on a warm summer day. Photo credit by zacgudakov on IG.

July – Lake Chelan for Sunshine and Wine

If you want classic summer weather, Lake Chelan delivers. With temps in the 80s, a giant blue lake, and surrounding vineyards, it’s a top pick for swimming, boating, and wine tasting.

Beautiful weather on a summer day hiking in Mount Rainier National Park. Photo credit by Gibran Hamdan.

August – Mount Rainier for Wildflower Season

Back to Rainier—but this time for the explosion of wildflowers. August is peak season for hiking the Skyline Trail, visiting Sunrise, and soaking in long days with clear views.

Sunrise over Colchuck Lake in the Enchantments.Photo taken personally.

September – The Enchantments for Backpacking

The Enchantments are the crown jewel of alpine Washington, and September is the sweet spot: fewer bugs, crisp mornings, golden larches starting to turn, and mostly dry trails. Permit or not, there are stunning day hikes from the Stuart Lake trailhead.

Beautiful sunset over the Cascades Mountain Range in Central Washington. Photo credit by lukewassphotography on IG.

October – Wenatchee & Leavenworth for Fall Colors

Fall foliage in central Washington is seriously underrated. Drive through Tumwater Canyon, pick apples in Wenatchee, and stroll Leavenworth as the leaves change and Oktoberfest kicks off.

Beautiful sunrise peeking over the landscape of Mount Rainier and downtown Seattle. Photo credit by Stephen Plopper.

November – Seattle for Food and Culture

As the weather turns, it’s a great time to head indoors. Seattle’s food scene is cozy and creative in November. Visit Pike Place Market, explore museums, and catch live music or film festivals in a city built for rainy-day charm.

Cascading waterfall at Riverfront Park in Spokane. Photo credit by ibidsy.photo on IG.

December – Spokane for a Snowy Holiday Escape

Spokane offers an underrated holiday experience with festive lights in Riverfront Park, nearby skiing at Mount Spokane, and a more relaxed winter vibe than the west side of the state.

Whether you’re chasing snow, sunshine, or seasonal color, there’s always somewhere incredible to explore in the Evergreen State. The best places to visit in Washington by month are as varied as the landscapes themselves—so you can keep the adventure going all year.

Want a custom Washington itinerary built around your favorite season or travel style? I can create one just for you.Have a specific theme in mind—like romantic getaways, hiking routes, or foodie stops? Drop a comment and I’ll write a guide for that next.