As the winter approaches, it's natural to crave the warm, cozy comfort of our homes. But for those willing to brave a bit of cold, Washington offers some of the best destination getaways for the season. From cute themed towns to adventurous winter sports, there's a ton to discover near Christmastime.
Leavenworth
Just a bit over two hours from Seattle is Leavenworth, a winter wonderland best known for its Ba-varian-themed decor and restaurants. Enjoy popular festive features such as Christmas carolers and German food stands, or spend some time at a reindeer farm. Added recently is the Leaven-worth Adventure Park, a mini roller coaster on the side of the mountain that goes surprisingly fast.
Wanting some more adventure? Leavenworth is a popular town to stay in if you're looking to hike the Enchantments, home to over 700 alpine lakes and ponds.
Out of all the options on this list, Leavenworth is the easiest to get to. Just be sure to check the weather before you leave! Expect big crowds and limited parking, especially during the Christmas season it's recommended to park away from the main street and then spend the rest of your day walking.
Poulsbo
If you're seeking something more Scandinavian, on the other side of Puget Sound is the Norwegian town of Poulsbo. Known for its cute shops and central district, it's perfect for anyone searching for a retreat from the city and wanting to experience small-town life. A must-visit is Sluys Bakery, a family-owned business known for its handmade bread and pastries. Spend the rest of the day en-joying the scenic burg and soaking in the Norwegian ambience before ending the day at Valholl Brewery with a pint.
Olympic National Park
For those looking to find their nature fix, Olympic National Park is hard to beat. Miles of rainforest, lakes, moun-tains, and beaches all await anybody who wants a retreat. The holidays provide the perfect backdrop for the trip, painting the sky with moody, rainy clouds that feels like a different planet. There are four lodges in the park to choose from.
Wanting more comfort? Several farms lease out glamping cabins that provide excellent access to the sights while also providing a warm, cozy bed at the end of the day. Be sure to check for closures, though, before head-ing over to enjoy the Twilight -esque scenery.
Mt. Baker
Off the bat, Mt. Baker isn't for the tame. It's secluded, wet, and difficult to traverse. But for skiers up for a chal-lenge and ready to put in some work, it can be a paradise. Planning is key: find a good spot at a nearby town, and make sure to rent a car that can power you through the whole trip. With that set, enjoy beautiful backcountry ski-ing and fresh powder throughout your adventure.
San Juan Islands
For those who enjoy the quiet of nature, or want to catch a glimpse of Washington's extensive wildlife, the San Juan Islands are the place to be. Just over three hours from Seattle, they are gorgeous in the fall and winter, with milder weather that is great for hiking. Visit the many wildlife museums, and then book a whale-watching tour for an almost guaranteed sighting of orcas. After a day of hiking, biking, or a scenic drive, check the local calendar for some enjoyable activities, like wine nights, climbing nights, or even a scenic flight over the islands.
From cute themed towns to snowy slopes, Washington has a ton of popular winter destinations for every kind of traveler. Especially during the colder season, when it's easy to become confined indoors, these getaways can be a great way to spend time with loved ones and experience something new. Stay warm, and happy holidays!
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