The Evergreen State
Crisp Mountain Air, Cool Ocean Breeze
Laid-back, Pacific Northwest Lifestyle
Get To Know Washington
Peeks of sunshine through the clouds, and the promise of endless adventure. It’s all in-store when you book a bus ticket to Washington. The state, known for its stunning mountain peaks and water views, packs every possible activity imaginable within its boundaries. From wineries to hiking to history, there are opportunities for every type of travel goal you have in mind.
A Brief History of Washington
Washington became the 42nd territory to earn statehood in 1889. Named for George Washington, it is commonly known as the Evergreen State for its lush forests and vast landscapes that helped fuel its economy and development for centuries. The deadliest volcanic catastrophe ever to occur in America happened here in 1980 when Mount St. Helens erupted. Washington is the home of many iconic names, from Starbucks to Bill Gates to Jimi Hendrix.
There's no shortage of things to do in Washington.
A Look at Culture in Washington
The Pacific Northwest booms with tech-industry jobs, and they’re one of the driving forces behind Washington’s immense popularity. But you don’t have to move there — when you book a bus ticket to Washington, you’ll get an up-close-and-personal look at what life is really like in the Evergreen State. People in Washington appreciate their outdoor space and never take for granted their proximity to Mount Rainier, Lake Washington or the Puget Sound. There are three national parks in the state, too — all worth your time whether you want to people-watch or go boating and fishing. This outdoor connection goes a long way in explaining why the city is so dog-friendly and so friendly, period. The spirit here is relaxed overall, and there’s a real sense of community. For coffee enthusiasts, Seattle is where it’s at and for good reason. Of course, there’s a major coffee chain location at every corner, but the city is also home to hundreds of independent operators who are renowned for their unique brews that hit the spot. Equally popular is the city’s immense food scene. You’ll find throngs of people on any given day at Dick’s, the legendary hamburger drive-in that opened in 1954 and boasts the kind of old-school feel you only see in movies.
Must See List
- San Juan Cruises – Bellingham
- Discovery Sea Kayaks
- McMenamins North Shore Lagoon and Swimming Pool
- Olympic National Park
- Mount Rainer National Park
- The Space Needle
- Seattle Center
- Pike Place Market
- Snoqualmie Falls
- Seattle Art Museum
- Woodland Park Zoo
- Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument
- Tacoma Museum District
- PBY Naval Air Museum
- McMenamins Elks Temple
- Smith Tower
- Windless Kite Festival
- Maryhill Winery & Amphitheater
Top Cities To Visit in Washington
Seattle
On Puget Sound, Seattle is the largest city in the state and easily the liveliest. It’s diverse in what it offers. You can indulge your outdoorsy side at a park or on a hiking trail, dig deep and delve into local history or savor some of the best cuisines on the coast. Where to begin? The beloved Pike Place Market is an obvious stop at some point along the way. It overlooks Elliott Bay and is packed with everything imaginable, from great food and coffee to fun shops and late-night haunts. There’s also the rooftop Pike Place Urban Garden — a great place to take a few pictures of the city. You can even enjoy a free walking tour of the premises. Don’t miss the Museum of Pop Culture, the Museum of History and Industry, the Seattle Art Museum, and Olympic Sculpture Park (a free attraction that features beautiful views of the Olympic Mountains), Puget Sound and the Space Needle. Preferred stops include Seattle Bolt Century, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and Seattle Bolt Dearborn.
Yakima
If you prefer a bit of a slower pace, head to Yakima. Set in the Yakima Valley, the region is rife with orchards and wineries. Don’t miss the opportunity to pick your own fresh fruits and vegetables! Learn about the valley’s roots at the Yakima Valley Museum, then clear some major room on your itinerary for wining and dining. The farm-to-table concept is big in Yakima, and there are dozens of farmers markets and eateries that cater to your every fresh-food whim. This is also wine country, with more than 120 wineries in the area alone!
Spokane
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or an entertainment lover, you’ll find plenty to explore in Spokane. Start at Riverfront Park, the downtown treasure that was designed specifically for the World’s Fair in 1974. No matter the time of year, you’re bound to encounter a fun event, be it a summer concert or a holiday party. Enjoy a journey over Spokane Falls in SkyRide, an unforgettable cable ride that offers 15 minutes’ worth of pure scenic bliss. Get your cultural fix at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, where you can learn about local history and enjoy a series of rotating exhibits.
Tacoma
Just over half an hour away from Seattle, Tacoma is situated on the Puget Sound and offers a calm change of pace from the hustle and bustle of the city. Tacoma offers plenty of activity of its own: the museum district features several must-see spots, including the Museum of Glass, America’s Car Museum and the Children’s Museum of Tacoma. Need to relax? Check out the eateries and music venues along Sixth Avenue. Fun fact: Almond Roca chocolates are produced here, and Tacoma is home to the country’s only ROCA® Factory Store. It’s worth a visit if you’ve got a serious sweet tooth to indulge.
Everett
Just north of Seattle is Everett, a humble city on the Puget Sound. In addition to beautiful views of the Snohomish River, Everett also offers a variety of fascinating things to do. Transportation enthusiasts will be in awe of the exhibits at the Boeing Future of Flight facility and museum. Add the Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum to your list, too. If there’s time, enjoy a stroll along the Centennial Trail, or rent a bike and work up a little sweat!
Where to Go and Stay in Washington
There are beautiful cities all over Washington. If you arrive at Sequin, you can’t miss the incredible beauty of the 12-acre Purple Haze Lavender Farm. Or arrive at Bellingham Bolt Corda and spend some time in Bellingham, among the state’s most wondrous coastal cities. You can enjoy beautiful artwork at the Whatcom Museum, or bring the kids to see the interactive attractions at the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention. Picturesque spots like Moses Lake, Port Angeles, and Wenatchee provide endless opportunities for outdoor fun in the water and on the trails.