SUMMER FUN IN WASHINGTON

I have lived in many corners of the United States, from Florida to Alaska, and from southern California to New Jersey, and many places in between. I have now lived in the state of Washington for 18 years and, at this time, have no intention of leaving. Washington has a diversity of environment, activities, opportunities, and life that few other places offer. Every season has its adventures and surprises, and the summers here provide us some of the best weather in the country.

So, what is there to do in Washington in the summer? Here is a list of favorites that people have shared that they enjoy. Click on the link for more information.

Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium

I have been to some world class zoos in my life, but the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium ranks as my number one favorite zoo. It is one of the few sites which hosts both a zoo and aquarium. The shows in the amphitheatre are some of the best I have seen. The park is never overcrowded and getting around in the park is easy to navigate. And the zoo does a great job working with endangered species. I highly encourage not only visiting the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, but also becoming a member. 

Olympic National Park

If you are looking for the great outdoors, for some incredible hiking or backpacking, Olympic National Park is a great place to start with nearly a million acres within the park boundaries. There are no shortages of things to do there. The Park has boating, backpacking, camping, hiking, fishing, and other seasonal activities. The scenery is remarkable from the mountains to the sea and all parts in between. Olympia National Park is one of the gems of the National Park Service and worth a visit.

Leavenworth

Leavenworth, located in central Washington state, is a Bavarian-style village with lots of activities, restaurants, shopping, and outdoor adventures nearby. My wife and I have tubed down the Wenatchee River through Leavenworth, shopped at some of the wonderful stores, ate some of the best fudge ever, enjoyed the river trail, dined in several great Bavarian style restaurants, and enjoyed some great white water rafting in the nearby Tieton River with Class III+ rapids. Leavenworth is a regular visit for us at least once a year.

LeMay – America’s Car Museum

Located next to the Tacoma Dome, America’s Car Museum is a collection of over 350 unique and classic cars. The museum covers the rich history of automobiles in the US and other countries, and has photo opps in an antique car as well as virtual racing on a simulator. It is a lot of fun and great entertainment for the entire family.

Free Things To Do This Summer

The South Sound has lots of free activities for the whole family. From Point Defiance Park, the Museum District, and Glass Art, to the Mt. Rainier area, Chambers Bay, and scenic drives and picnics, there are lots of things to do. Check out the website at Travel Tacoma for a whole list of free adventures. 

There is a plethora of activities around the South Sound in the summer and all year long. Check out the monthly activity blog that we publish for monthly activities and annual events.