Six Washington State Destinations that AREN’T Seattle
It’s pretty common that people assume you live in Seattle when you say you’re from Washington State. But here in Washington we have so many gorgeous areas that have nothing to do with the Emerald City. These six Washington State Destinations happen to be some of our favorites.
The San Juan Islands
In all honesty, the San Juan Islands probably deserve a post all to themselves. They feature many incredible locations including almost a dozen state parks, the San Juan Island National Historic Park, multiple farm venues and other event spaces. With stunning views and tons of outdoor activities, the San Juan Islands are a weekend wedding getaway destination of their own. Source your florals from Morning Star Farms on Orcas Island, and your rentals from San Juan Shindigs for a truly local supporting event.
Mount Rainier National Park
This is one of those areas that just kinda encompasses all the best of the best. Just outside the national park sits the tiniest town of Ashford with its various incredible venues for intimate weddings, your guests can roam the park by day and party by night in nearby cabins. On the other side of the park towards Yakima is the beautiful Rimrock Lake Resort. Elope on the Naches trail and celebrate with s’mores around an intimate campfire that night. If you’re less of a camper and more “city folk” head into Buckley for an upscale shindig without all the city traffic. It’s less than 45 minutes outside the Carbon River entrance and has all the amenities you’d expect from civilization (minus the national chain based fast food).
Leavenworth
One of our absolute favorites, this Bavarian-Style village has a tendency to go viral and make national news on a regular basis. It’s been promoted as a top US Destination, but that doesn’t take away from the charm of this beautiful town. Rent out the Leavenworth Festhalle for your reception, then take your after party down to Stein and snag some fresh from the tap pints to celebrate. Support small local businesses like the Mountain View Homestead where you can source your bouquets and gift your guests a custom tea blend. Don’t forget your custom wedding ornament at the year round Kris Kringle’s Christmas Shoppe on the main drag.
Olympic National Park
Dreaming of a sandy beach sunset on your wedding day? Washington has that too. Olympic National Park offers beaches, clear blue swimming spots, mountains and rainforests for the well balanced outdoor lover. Wake up the morning of your wedding listening to the birds chirp, with coffee on the front porch of your private cabin. Hike down to the beach in the early afternoon to share your vows with your loved one, before catching the sunset over the waterfront. Spend the next day hiking and swimming in the beautiful Devils Punchbowl before heading off on your next adventure. Or for the more traditional wedding, check out Fox Bell Weddings + Events, Fern Acres or the Rainforest Arts Center where you can host your favorite people and save all the adventurous stuff for your honeymoon.
Walla Walla Wine Country
With incredible wedding venues, like Cold Creek Ranch and Canoe Ridge Vineyard, you can plan the wedding of your dreams in Walla Walla. Choose a historic location, complete with local Washington Wines for that upscale, Napa Valley feel without leaving the PNW. With plenty of local hotels and an array of beautiful Bed & Breakfast locations, your guests will feel right at home in this beautiful town. Be sure to check out Fat Duck Inn, which features a short walk to the downtown shopping, restaurants and wineries.
Snoqualmie Pass
No matter the weather, Snoqualmie pass has something for everyone. A thriving Winter Destination for skiers and boarders, this tiny town offers a ton of beautiful backdrops for weddings in the summer as well. Nearby towns of Cle Elum and Roslyn offer historic venues like Stonehouse 101, while Suncadia has some pretty incredible valley views and enough space for all your VIPs.
So, while Seattle may be the most thought of destination in Washington, the Emerald City has nothing on all the unique destinations the state holds dear. This isn’t even an all-inclusive list and just includes those destinations within a few hours of Seattle. There’s still another half of the state to enjoy with expansive deserts and wheat fields.
