Washington Getaways
The Heart of the Pacific Northwest Offers
Unmatched Vacation Getaways for Every Traveler
Known by many as the heart and soul of the Pacific Northwest , Washington offers one-of-a-kind travel experiences for visitors from all over the world. From unparalleled natural beauty and cutting-edge arts and culture to innovative epicurean experiences and thrilling outdoor adventures, Washington has something for everyone with an independent spirit.
Culture of Independence
Washington ’s long-standing history of pioneers and trailblazers comes to life daily in the artistic and cultural diversity that unites the state’s big cities and small towns. Kick off your arts and culture itinerary at the Seattle Art Museum (http://www.seattleartmuseum.org). In Spokane , the Smithsonian-affiliated Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture (www.northwestmuseum.org) features five galleries on three main disciplines – the American Indian, regional history and visual art.
The Epicurean Experience
Visitors to Washington can savor the richness of world-renowned food and wine destinations, as well as a variety of locally grown produce, such as Wenatchee apples, cherries from Green Bluff and sweet onions from Walla Walla . Historic Pike Place Market (www.pikeplacemarket.org), which celebrated its centennial anniversary in 2007, is a must-see waterfront mecca for foodies. In addition to great food, Washington is the second largest wine-producing state in the U.S. Home to more than 600 wineries and vineyards, Washington Wine Country (www.winecountrywashington.org) is garnering international attention for its premium wines.
Scenic Grandeur
Washington ’s national parks and scenic areas boast the longest wilderness coast, biggest glaciers and most spectacular rainforests in the continental U.S. , giving travelers endless opportunities to wander – and wonder. Mount Rainier National Park (www.nps.gov/mora) features the iconic Mount Rainier, a 14,410-foot active volcano, and provides opportunities for scenic driving, hiking, camping and mountain climbing through old-growth forests, massive glaciers and alpine meadows filled with wildflowers. Olympic National Park (www.nps.gov/olym), is home to the only temperate rainforest in the continental U.S. , and contains more than 60 miles of wild Pacific coast. Nearby is North Cascades National Park (www.nps.gov/noca), which contains 400 miles of trails leading to vast, undeveloped wilderness where visitors often see more animals than people.
All Access Adventure
From rocky trails to rushing rivers, Washington feeds visitors’ appetite for
adventure with truly extreme experiences, served with a side of unparalleled background beauty. In the winter, adventurers can hit the slopes – skiing at Crystal Mountain , snowboarding at Mount Baker or snowshoeing at Hurricane Ridge.
Spring snowmelt brings prime white water rafting season in several rivers statewide, including the Snake River in eastern Washington . Windsurfing and kiteboarding through the Columbia River Gorge is another way to enjoy Washington ’s scenic waterways. Back on land, thrill-seekers can enjoy mountain climbing and hiking at Mount Si (www.mountsi.com), one of the national parks, or one of many urban parks.
With all that the state has to offer, travelers of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy a unique and independent Washington adventure. For additional information on the countless travel options in Washington , please visit www.experiencewashington.com.
Tammy Guill
International and Domestic Travel Trade Manager
Washington State Tourism Office | Department of Commerce
128 10th Ave SW | PO Box 42525 | Olympia WA 98504
Office: 360.725.4185 | Fax: 360.586.0873
tammy.guill@commerce.wa.gov
www.ExperienceWA.com
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