Northwest Washington
Travel north from Seattle to reach Northwest Washington, a region characterized by its idyllic ports, colorful fields and mountainous scenery. As well as sharing a border with Canada, this area also features the same dramatic landscapes and awe-inspiring wildlife as its northern neighbor.
Choose a town in Northwest Washington to explore. Bellingham is the home of several museums and galleries. Start in the Whatcom Museum, which documents the history of the region. Learn about the indigenous communities, such as the Nooksack, who lived in the area and follow the story of the settlers who moved here in the mid-19th century.
Wander through the pretty harbor town of La Conner in Skagit County. The scenic port is lined with historic museums and the surrounding tulip fields burst into kaleidoscopic color every spring.
Wander the historic downtown of Mount Vernon, a town forged by pioneers. Learn about these early settlers in the Skagit County Historical Museum, which runs a tour around heritage barns built by early homesteaders.
Skim across the whale-filled waters between the islands of the region. One of the most scenic spots is Whidbey Island, where you will find the picturesque town of Coupeville. Multicolored wooden façades line the waterfront. Look for them from the boat as you pull into shore here.
Outside of the towns, Whidbey Island features a diverse and wildlife-filled landscape. Watch for orcas breaching the water while cycling around the rural island. Explore the woodlands and cliffs of Deception Pass State Park, which covers over 4,000 acres (1,600 hectares) in the north of Whidbey.
To get to Northwest Washington, fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and drive north. La Conner and Mount Vernon are both under 90 minutes away by car, while Bellingham, near the Canadian border, can be reached in just under 2 hours.
Visit throughout the year to enjoy Northwest Washington’s mild climate and resident pods of orcas. Summer in the San Juan Islands can get very busy, with long lines for boat rides, so come in spring or fall for quieter excursions around the scenic waters.