Things to do in Washington: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
National Mall, Washington
Overview: The National Mall is a sprawling, iconic park in the heart of Washington, D.C., featuring monuments, museums, and open spaces that celebrate American history and culture.
History: Designed in 1791 by Pierre Charles L’Enfant as part of the capital city’s plan, the National Mall has evolved into a symbol of democracy and national pride.
Since When: The Mall’s development began in the early 19th century, with major expansions and additions occurring throughout the 1900s.
Review: Visitors praise the National Mall for its breathtaking monuments, world-class museums, and the serene beauty of its landscaped grounds.
When to Go: The best times to visit are during spring (for cherry blossoms) and fall (for pleasant weather), though early mornings or weekdays help avoid crowds.
How to Go: Easily accessible via the D.C. Metro (Smithsonian or Federal Triangle stations), by bike, or on foot from nearby attractions.
What to Do: Explore famous landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, visit Smithsonian museums, enjoy picnics, or attend festivals and events held year-round.
Free or Paid: Entry to the National Mall and most surrounding museums is free, though some special exhibits or events may require tickets.
Lincoln Memorial, Washington
Overview: The Lincoln Memorial is a majestic marble monument honoring Abraham Lincoln, featuring a grand statue of the 16th U.S. president and inscriptions of his famous speeches.
History: Dedicated in 1922, the memorial was designed by architect Henry Bacon and sculptor Daniel Chester French to commemorate Lincoln’s legacy of unity and freedom.
Since When: Construction began in 1914 and was completed in 1922, becoming a key site for civil rights movements, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech.
Review: Visitors are awed by the memorial’s grandeur, the reflective atmosphere, and the powerful historical significance it embodies.
When to Go: Early morning or late evening offers fewer crowds and stunning views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
How to Go: Located at the western end of the National Mall, it’s accessible via Metro (Foggy Bottom or Smithsonian stations) or by walking from nearby attractions.
What to Do: Admire the statue, read the Gettysburg Address engraved inside, and enjoy the panoramic views of the Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument.
Free or Paid: The Lincoln Memorial is completely free to visit and open 24 hours a day.
Seattle Center, Washington
Overview: Seattle Center is a vibrant cultural hub featuring the Space Needle, museums, theaters, and parks, originally built for the 1962 World’s Fair.
History: Established as the site of the 1962 World’s Fair (Century 21 Exposition), it has since grown into a premier destination for arts, entertainment, and community events.
Since When: The center opened in 1962 and has been a focal point of Seattle’s cultural scene for over six decades.
Review: Visitors love its mix of attractions, from the Space Needle to live performances, calling it a must-visit for families and art enthusiasts.
When to Go: Summer offers outdoor festivals and clear views from the Space Needle, but weekdays or off-peak hours reduce crowds.
How to Go: Easily reachable by the Seattle Monorail from downtown, by bus, or via car with nearby parking options.
What to Do: Ride the Space Needle, explore the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), catch a show at the Pacific Science Center, or relax at the International Fountain.
Free or Paid: Entry to Seattle Center is free, but individual attractions like the Space Needle or MoPOP require tickets.
Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Washington
Overview: The Smithsonian National Zoo is a beloved wildlife park in D.C., home to over 2,700 animals, including giant pandas, lions, and elephants.
History: Founded in 1889, the zoo was created to advance animal conservation, research, and public education under the Smithsonian Institution.
Since When: It opened to the public in 1890 and has since become a leader in global wildlife preservation efforts.
Review: Families and animal lovers rave about the zoo’s well-maintained habitats, engaging exhibits, and the famous panda habitat.
When to Go: Weekday mornings are ideal for smaller crowds, while spring and fall offer comfortable weather for walking.
How to Go: Accessible via Metro (Woodley Park or Cleveland Park stations) or by car, with limited on-site parking available.
What to Do: See giant pandas, visit the Amazonia exhibit, attend animal feedings, and explore the Kids’ Farm area.
Free or Paid: Admission to the zoo is free, though parking fees apply for those driving.
Smithsonian National Museum of American History, Washington
Overview: This museum showcases America’s rich heritage through exhibits on innovation, culture, and history, including the Star-Spangled Banner and Dorothy’s ruby slippers.
History: Opened in 1964 as part of the Smithsonian Institution, it has grown into one of the most visited history museums in the world.
Since When: The museum was established in 1964 and has continually expanded its collections to reflect the evolving American story.
Review: Visitors appreciate its diverse exhibits, interactive displays, and the way it brings U.S. history to life in an engaging manner.
When to Go: Weekdays or early mornings are best to avoid school groups and tourist crowds.
How to Go: Located on the National Mall, it’s easily reached via Metro (Smithsonian or Federal Triangle stations) or by walking from nearby sites.
What to Do: Explore iconic artifacts like the First Ladies’ dresses, the original Washington Monument model, and exhibits on civil rights and pop culture.
Free or Paid: Entry to the museum is completely free, though donations are welcome.
National Air and Space Museum, Washington
Overview: The National Air and Space Museum is a world-renowned institution showcasing the history of aviation and space exploration, featuring iconic artifacts like the Wright brothers’ plane and Apollo 11’s command module.
History: Established in 1946 as part of the Smithsonian Institution, the museum was officially opened to the public in 1976 to preserve and display groundbreaking achievements in flight and space travel.
Since When: The museum’s current building on the National Mall opened in 1976, though its origins trace back to earlier Smithsonian aeronautical collections.
Review: Visitors consistently praise the museum for its awe-inspiring exhibits, interactive displays, and the chance to see real spacecraft and aircraft up close.
When to Go: Weekday mornings or off-peak seasons (fall and winter) are ideal to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
How to Go: Easily accessible via the D.C. Metro (L’Enfant Plaza or Smithsonian stations) or by walking from other National Mall attractions.
What to Do: Explore historic aircraft, touch a moon rock, watch IMAX films, and learn about the future of space exploration through immersive exhibits.
Free or Paid: Admission is free, though some special exhibits, planetarium shows, and IMAX screenings may require tickets.
Chihuly Garden and Glass, Washington
Overview: Chihuly Garden and Glass is a stunning art exhibit in Seattle showcasing the vibrant, large-scale glass sculptures of renowned artist Dale Chihuly, set within a lush garden and indoor galleries.
History: Opened in 2012 as a permanent exhibition at Seattle Center, the museum was designed to highlight Chihuly’s innovative glasswork and his influence on contemporary art.
Since When: The exhibition has been a major Seattle attraction since its grand opening on May 21, 2012.
Review: Visitors are mesmerized by the dazzling colors, intricate designs, and the seamless blend of glass art with natural garden landscapes.
When to Go: Evenings offer a magical experience with illuminated glass sculptures, while weekdays provide a quieter visit.
How to Go: Located at Seattle Center, it’s easily reachable via the Seattle Monorail, buses, or a short walk from downtown.
What to Do: Admire the Glasshouse’s suspended sculpture, wander through the garden’s glass installations, and watch live glassblowing demonstrations.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with discounts available for children, seniors, and Washington state residents.
Washington Monument, Washington
Overview: The Washington Monument is an iconic 555-foot marble obelisk honoring George Washington, offering panoramic views of D.C. from its observation deck.
History: Construction began in 1848 but faced delays due to funding issues and the Civil War, finally reaching completion in 1884 as the world’s tallest structure at the time.
Since When: The monument was officially dedicated on February 21, 1885, and opened to the public in 1888.
Review: Visitors love the breathtaking views from the top and the monument’s historical significance, though tickets can be competitive.
When to Go: Early morning on weekdays provides the best chance for tickets and shorter wait times.
How to Go: Located on the National Mall, it’s accessible via Metro (Smithsonian or Federal Triangle stations) or by walking from nearby landmarks.
What to Do: Ride the elevator to the observation deck, explore exhibits in the lobby, and take photos with this iconic D.C. landmark.
Free or Paid: Free, but timed-entry tickets are required and can be reserved online in advance.
Woodland Park Zoo, Washington
Overview: Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle is a 92-acre wildlife park featuring over 1,000 animals from around the world, known for its naturalistic habitats and conservation efforts.
History: Founded in 1899, the zoo evolved from a small menagerie into a leading conservation-focused institution with award-winning exhibits.
Since When: It officially became a public zoo in the early 1900s and has since expanded with immersive exhibits like the Tropical Rain Forest and African Savanna.
Review: Families and animal lovers praise the zoo for its well-designed enclosures, engaging animal encounters, and educational programs.
When to Go: Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, while early mornings are best for active animals.
How to Go: Accessible by bus, car (with on-site parking for a fee), or a short drive from downtown Seattle.
What to Do: See gorillas in the Tropical Rain Forest, watch penguins swim, visit the butterfly garden, and attend keeper talks.
Free or Paid: Paid admission, with discounts for children, seniors, and Seattle residents.
Seattle Aquarium, Washington
Overview: The Seattle Aquarium is a marine education center on Pier 59, featuring Pacific Northwest aquatic life, including otters, seals, and a vibrant coral reef exhibit.
History: Opened in 1977, the aquarium was one of the first in the U.S. to focus on local marine ecosystems and conservation awareness.
Since When: It has been a key Seattle attraction since its opening on May 20, 1977, with major expansions over the years.
Review: Visitors enjoy the hands-on tide pool exhibits, playful sea otters, and the impressive Window on Washington Waters tank.
When to Go: Weekday mornings or late afternoons are less crowded, and weekdays often have discounted rates.
How to Go: Located on the downtown waterfront, it’s walkable from Pike Place Market or accessible via bus and light rail.
What to Do: Touch sea anemones in the tide pools, watch harbor seals swim, and learn about Puget Sound’s marine biodiversity.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with discounts for children, seniors, and military personnel.
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Overview: Mount Rainier National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder featuring the iconic 14,410-foot active volcano, lush old-growth forests, alpine meadows, and over 260 miles of hiking trails.
History: Established as America’s fifth national park in 1899, it was created to protect the majestic Mount Rainier and its surrounding ecosystems from development.
Since When: The park has welcomed visitors since its official designation on March 2, 1899, preserving its wilderness for over 120 years.
Review: Visitors consistently praise the park for its stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and well-maintained trails, though weather can be unpredictable.
When to Go: July through September offers the best weather for hiking and wildflower blooms, while winter attracts snowshoers and cross-country skiers.
How to Go: Located about 2-3 hours from Seattle by car, with entrances at Nisqually, Sunrise, and Paradise being the most popular access points.
What to Do: Hike to waterfalls like Christine Falls, explore the wildflower-filled Paradise meadows, or climb to Camp Muir for mountaineering adventures.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with a per-vehicle fee or America the Beautiful Pass accepted for access.
Museum of Pop Culture, Washington
Overview: The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) in Seattle is a vibrant celebration of music, sci-fi, and pop culture, featuring interactive exhibits on legends like Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana.
History: Founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen in 2000 as the Experience Music Project, it rebranded to MoPOP in 2016 to broaden its cultural focus.
Since When: The museum opened its striking Frank Gehry-designed building on June 23, 2000, becoming a staple of Seattle Center.
Review: Fans of music, movies, and gaming love its hands-on exhibits, though some wish it had more permanent collections.
When to Go: Weekday afternoons or evenings are less crowded, and special exhibit rotations make repeat visits worthwhile.
How to Go: Easily accessible via the Seattle Monorail from downtown or by bus, with parking available at Seattle Center.
What to Do: Play instruments in the Sound Lab, explore horror movie props, and geek out over indie games and sci-fi memorabilia.
Free or Paid: Paid admission, with discounts for students, seniors, and military personnel.
Kerry Park, Washington
Overview: Kerry Park is a small but iconic viewpoint in Seattle offering the city’s most photographed skyline, featuring the Space Needle, Mount Rainier, and Elliott Bay.
History: The park was donated to the city in 1927 by lumberman Albert Kerry Jr. as a public space to enjoy panoramic views.
Since When: It has been a beloved spot for locals and tourists since its establishment nearly a century ago.
Review: Visitors rave about the unbeatable sunset views, though its small size can get crowded during peak times.
When to Go: Sunset is the most popular (and crowded) time, but early mornings offer serene views with fewer people.
How to Go: Located in the Queen Anne neighborhood, it’s best reached by car, rideshare, or a steep walk uphill from downtown.
What to Do: Snap postcard-worthy photos, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak in the sweeping vistas of Seattle’s skyline.
Free or Paid: Free and open to the public 24/7.
The Museum of Flight, Washington
Overview: The Museum of Flight near Seattle is one of the world’s largest air and space museums, featuring historic aircraft, a Space Gallery, and a Boeing 787 cockpit simulator.
History: Founded in 1965 by aviation enthusiasts, it expanded from a small exhibit at Boeing Field into a world-class museum.
Since When: It opened its main campus in 1987 and has since grown to include over 175 aircraft and spacecraft.
Review: Aviation buffs and families love its extensive collection, interactive displays, and the chance to board a retired Air Force One.
When to Go: Weekdays are less busy, and clear days allow for great views from the outdoor Airpark.
How to Go: Located south of downtown Seattle, accessible by car (free parking) or via King County Metro buses.
What to Do: Walk through a Concorde supersonic jet, explore WWII fighter planes, and try flight simulators.
Free or Paid: Paid admission, with discounts for kids, seniors, and military members.
Point Defiance Park, Washington
Overview: Point Defiance Park in Tacoma is a sprawling 760-acre urban oasis featuring old-growth forests, beaches, a zoo, and stunning views of Puget Sound.
History: Established in 1888, it was designed by the same landscape architect as New York’s Central Park, offering a natural retreat for over a century.
Since When: The park has been a public treasure since its creation, with attractions like the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium added later.
Review: Locals and visitors adore its diverse landscapes, wildlife sightings, and family-friendly activities, though weekends can be busy.
When to Go: Weekday mornings offer peaceful walks, while summer weekends are lively with events and ferry rides to Vashon Island.
How to Go: A 30-minute drive from Seattle or accessible via Pierce Transit buses, with ample parking available.
What to Do: Hike through old-growth trails, visit the zoo and aquarium, kayak along the shoreline, or picnic at Owen Beach.
Free or Paid: Park entry is free, but some attractions like the zoo require separate tickets.
Washington Park, Washington
Overview: Washington Park in Anacortes is a sprawling 220-acre green space featuring lush forests, scenic hiking trails, and breathtaking views of the San Juan Islands and Puget Sound.
History: Originally established in the early 20th century, the park was developed to preserve the area’s natural beauty and provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
Since When: The park has been a public recreation area since the 1920s, with ongoing expansions and improvements over the decades.
Review: Visitors praise the park for its well-maintained trails, stunning viewpoints, and peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for nature lovers.
When to Go: Spring and summer offer the best weather for hiking and picnicking, while fall provides vibrant foliage and fewer crowds.
How to Go: Located in Anacortes, it’s accessible by car via Highway 20, with ample parking available near the trailheads.
What to Do: Hike the scenic loop trail, enjoy a picnic at Sunset Beach, or take in panoramic views from Cap Sante Overlook.
Free or Paid: Free to enter, with no admission fees required.
Washington State Fair, Washington
Overview: The Washington State Fair, held annually in Puyallup, is one of the largest fairs in the Pacific Northwest, featuring carnival rides, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, and delicious fair food.
History: Founded in 1900 as the Puyallup Valley Fair, it has grown into a beloved tradition, attracting millions of visitors over its century-long history.
Since When: The fair has been running since 1900, with the modern iteration expanding to include concerts, rodeos, and cultural events.
Review: Attendees love the fair’s lively atmosphere, diverse attractions, and iconic treats like scones and elephant ears, though crowds can be overwhelming.
When to Go: The fair runs for three weeks in September, with weekdays offering shorter lines and a more relaxed experience.
How to Go: Located in Puyallup, it’s easily accessible by car (with parking lots nearby) or via Sound Transit’s commuter train from Seattle.
What to Do: Ride thrilling carnival attractions, watch live concerts, explore agricultural displays, and indulge in classic fair food.
Free or Paid: Paid admission, with discounts available for seniors, children, and advance ticket purchases.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Washington
Overview: Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma is a premier wildlife attraction showcasing over 9,000 animals, including polar bears, sharks, and red wolves, in immersive habitats.
History: Opened in 1905, the zoo has evolved from a small collection of animals into a conservation-focused institution with world-class exhibits.
Since When: It has been a staple of Tacoma’s Point Defiance Park since its founding over a century ago.
Review: Families and animal enthusiasts rave about the zoo’s engaging exhibits, educational programs, and up-close encounters with marine life.
When to Go: Weekday mornings are ideal for smaller crowds, while feeding times and keeper talks offer added excitement.
How to Go: Located within Point Defiance Park, it’s accessible by car or Pierce Transit buses, with parking available on-site.
What to Do: Walk through the Asian Forest Sanctuary, touch stingrays at the Pacific Seas Aquarium, and watch polar bears play in their Arctic habitat.
Free or Paid: Paid admission, with discounts for children, seniors, and military personnel.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Washington
Overview: The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C., is a world-famous institution housing over 145 million specimens, including dinosaur fossils, gemstones, and cultural artifacts.
History: Established in 1910, the museum was created to educate the public about the natural world through its vast collections and research initiatives.
Since When: It has been a cornerstone of the National Mall since its opening over a century ago.
Review: Visitors are amazed by the museum’s extensive exhibits, including the Hope Diamond and lifelike dinosaur skeletons, though peak times can be crowded.
When to Go: Early mornings on weekdays provide the best chance to explore without large crowds.
How to Go: Easily accessible via the D.C. Metro (Smithsonian station) or by walking from other National Mall attractions.
What to Do: Marvel at the Hall of Mammals, explore the Ocean Hall, and see ancient Egyptian mummies in the anthropology section.
Free or Paid: Free admission, though donations are welcome.
Deception Pass State Park, Washington
Overview: Deception Pass State Park is a stunning 4,134-acre park known for its dramatic cliffs, old-growth forests, and the iconic Deception Pass Bridge spanning turbulent waters between Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands.
History: The park was established in 1922 and named after the treacherous strait explored by Captain George Vancouver in 1792.
Since When: It has been a protected natural area for over a century, attracting outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Review: Visitors love the park’s breathtaking scenery, diverse hiking trails, and opportunities for kayaking and beachcombing, though parking can fill up quickly.
When to Go: Summer offers the best weather for water activities, while fall and spring provide solitude and vibrant landscapes.
How to Go: Located about 90 minutes from Seattle, it’s accessible by car via Highway 20, with parking available at multiple trailheads.
What to Do: Hike to breathtaking viewpoints, kayak under the bridge, or relax on the sandy shores of Cranberry Lake.
Free or Paid: A Discover Pass is required for parking, which can be purchased for a day or annual fee.
The Gum Wall at Unexpected Productions Improv, Washington
Overview: The Gum Wall is a quirky and colorful Seattle landmark where thousands of visitors have stuck their chewed gum to create a sticky, ever-evolving public art installation in Post Alley near Pike Place Market.
History: The tradition began in the early 1990s when theater patrons waiting for shows at Unexpected Productions would stick their gum to the wall, eventually growing into a full-blown tourist attraction.
Since When: The wall gained official recognition as a tourist attraction in the mid-1990s and was briefly cleaned in 2015 before the gum-sticking tradition quickly resumed.
Review: Visitors find it both fascinating and slightly gross, with many appreciating its unique character though some are put off by the sanitation aspects.
When to Go: Early mornings or weekdays offer better photo opportunities with fewer crowds in the narrow alleyway.
How to Go: Easily accessible on foot from Pike Place Market, located in Post Alley between Stewart and Virginia Streets.
What to Do: Add your own gum to the wall, take creative photos, and explore the surrounding Pike Place Market area.
Free or Paid: Free to visit and participate in the gum-sticking tradition.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington
Overview: The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a powerful and somber tribute to U.S. service members who fought and died in the Vietnam War, featuring the iconic black granite Wall of Names.
History: Designed by Maya Lin and dedicated in 1982, the memorial was created to honor the 58,000+ Americans who died in the conflict and help heal national divisions.
Since When: The memorial was officially dedicated on November 13, 1982, and has since become one of Washington’s most visited monuments.
Review: Visitors describe it as profoundly moving, with many leaving personal mementos and tracing names of loved ones on the reflective wall.
When to Go: Early morning or evening offers a more contemplative experience with fewer crowds.
How to Go: Located on the National Mall near the Lincoln Memorial, accessible via Metro (Foggy Bottom station) or by walking from other memorials.
What to Do: Pay respects to fallen soldiers, view the Three Soldiers statue, and observe items left at the wall by visitors.
Free or Paid: Free to visit 24 hours a day.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, Washington
Overview: This world-class museum documents, studies, and interprets Holocaust history through powerful exhibits that honor the victims while teaching important lessons about genocide and human rights.
History: Established by unanimous act of Congress in 1980 and opened in 1993, the museum serves as America’s national institution for Holocaust remembrance.
Since When: The museum opened its doors to the public on April 22, 1993, following years of planning and construction.
Review: Visitors describe it as emotionally powerful and educational, though the graphic nature of some exhibits may be difficult for sensitive viewers.
When to Go: Weekday mornings (especially in off-peak seasons) offer shorter lines and more time for contemplation.
How to Go: Located just off the National Mall at 100 Raoul Wallenberg Place, accessible via Metro (Smithsonian station).
What to Do: View the permanent exhibition, see the Hall of Remembrance, and explore temporary exhibits on genocide prevention.
Free or Paid: Free admission, though timed entry passes are required March-August.
Korean War Veterans Memorial, Washington
Overview: This striking memorial honors the 5.8 million Americans who served in the Korean War, featuring 19 stainless steel soldier statues representing a squad on patrol.
History: Dedicated in 1995, the memorial was authorized by Congress in 1986 to recognize what was often called “The Forgotten War.”
Since When: The memorial was officially dedicated on July 27, 1995, the 42nd anniversary of the armistice that ended the war.
Review: Visitors find the lifelike statues hauntingly powerful, especially when illuminated at night, creating a memorable experience.
When to Go: Evening visits offer dramatic lighting effects, while early mornings provide better photo opportunities.
How to Go: Located on the National Mall near the Lincoln Memorial, accessible via Metro (Foggy Bottom station).
What to Do: Walk among the soldier statues, view the reflective Mural Wall, and read inscriptions about the war’s impact.
Free or Paid: Free to visit 24 hours a day.
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Washington
Overview: As America’s national cultural center, the Kennedy Center presents world-class performances in theater, dance, ballet, orchestral music, and opera across multiple venues.
History: Authorized by Congress in 1958 as a memorial to JFK and opened in 1971, the center has hosted legendary performers and premieres for over 50 years.
Since When: The center officially opened on September 8, 1971, after years of planning and construction.
Review: Visitors praise its outstanding acoustics, diverse programming, and free daily performances on the Millennium Stage.
When to Go: Evening performances offer the full experience, while daytime visits allow appreciation of the architecture and river views.
How to Go: Located along the Potomac River at 2700 F St NW, accessible via Metro (Foggy Bottom station) with a free shuttle.
What to Do: Attend a performance, take a guided tour, enjoy rooftop views, and see the Hall of States and Hall of Nations.
Free or Paid: Free to enter and explore, with paid tickets required for most performances.
The Seattle Great Wheel, Washington
Overview: The Seattle Great Wheel is a towering 175-foot Ferris wheel located on Pier 57 that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, Elliott Bay, and the surrounding mountains.
History: Built in 2012 as part of Seattle’s waterfront revitalization project, it was designed to become an iconic attraction similar to other great observation wheels worldwide.
Since When: The wheel began operating on June 29, 2012, quickly becoming one of Seattle’s most recognizable landmarks.
Review: Visitors consistently praise the smooth ride and spectacular views, though some note the experience can be pricey for families.
When to Go: Sunset rides provide the most dramatic views, while weekday afternoons typically have shorter wait times.
How to Go: Easily accessible on the downtown waterfront at Pier 57, within walking distance from Pike Place Market and downtown hotels.
What to Do: Enjoy the 12-15 minute ride in climate-controlled gondolas, take photos of the skyline, and explore the surrounding waterfront attractions.
Free or Paid: Paid attraction with tickets required (discounts available for children and seniors).
Gas Works Park, Washington
Overview: Gas Works Park is a unique 19-acre public park featuring preserved industrial structures from a former gasification plant, offering stunning views of Lake Union and the Seattle skyline.
History: The park was created in 1975 by transforming the former Seattle Gas Light Company plant (operational 1906-1956) into an innovative public space.
Since When: The park opened to the public in 1975 after extensive environmental cleanup and landscape design by Richard Haag.
Review: Visitors love the park’s industrial aesthetic, kite-flying opportunities, and panoramic views, though some note the occasional strong odors from the lake.
When to Go: Summer evenings are ideal for picnics and sunset watching, while sunny weekends bring crowds for kite flying.
How to Go: Located at 2101 N Northlake Way, accessible by car, bike, or bus routes 26 and 62 from downtown Seattle.
What to Do: Explore the preserved gas works structures, fly kites on the large mound, have a picnic, and photograph the Seattle skyline.
Free or Paid: Free public park with no admission fees.
Riverfront Park, Washington
Overview: Riverfront Park is a 100-acre urban park in Spokane featuring scenic river views, the iconic Spokane Falls, and numerous recreational attractions along the Spokane River.
History: Created for Expo ’74 (the first environmentally themed world’s fair), the park transformed former railroad yards into a beautiful public space.
Since When: The park opened in 1974 as the centerpiece of the world’s fair and has been a Spokane treasure ever since.
Review: Visitors praise the park’s natural beauty, well-maintained paths, and variety of activities, though some wish for more shade in summer.
When to Go: Spring through fall offers the best weather, with summer evenings being perfect for concerts and events.
How to Go: Located in downtown Spokane at 507 N Howard St, accessible by car, bus, or on foot from downtown hotels.
What to Do: Ride the historic Looff Carrousel, walk across the suspension bridge, view Spokane Falls, and visit the SkyRide gondola.
Free or Paid: Free to enter, with fees for certain attractions like the carousel and SkyRide.
Fremont Troll, Washington
Overview: The Fremont Troll is a massive, whimsical concrete sculpture of a troll clutching an actual Volkswagen Beetle, located under the Aurora Bridge in Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood.
History: Created in 1990 by four local artists as part of a public art competition to revitalize the area under the bridge.
Since When: The troll was installed in October 1990 and has since become one of Seattle’s most beloved and photographed public art pieces.
Review: Visitors find the troll delightfully quirky and creative, though some are surprised by its smaller-than-expected scale when seen in person.
When to Go: Weekday mornings offer the best photo opportunities without crowds, though evenings create dramatic lighting effects.
How to Go: Located at N 36th St and Troll Ave N in Fremont, accessible by bus routes 26, 28, 31, 32, or by car with street parking available.
What to Do: Take fun photos with the troll, explore the surrounding Fremont neighborhood’s other art installations, and visit nearby shops and cafes.
Free or Paid: Free public art installation accessible 24/7.
National World War II Memorial, Washington
Overview: This majestic memorial on the National Mall honors the 16 million who served in the U.S. armed forces during World War II, featuring 56 pillars, two arches, and a reflective pool.
History: Authorized by Congress in 1993 and designed by architect Friedrich St.Florian, it was the first national memorial dedicated to all who served in World War II.
Since When: The memorial was dedicated on May 29, 2004, after years of fundraising and construction.
Review: Visitors describe it as both grand and moving, with many appreciating the opportunity to honor family members who served.
When to Go: Early morning offers peaceful reflection, while evening illumination creates a powerful atmosphere.
How to Go: Located between the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, accessible via Metro (Smithsonian or Federal Triangle stations).
What to Do: Walk among the state pillars, view the Freedom Wall’s 4,048 gold stars (each representing 100 fallen soldiers), and read the inscriptions.
Free or Paid: Free to visit 24 hours a day with park rangers available from 9:30 am to 10 pm.
Olympic National Park, Washington
Overview: Olympic National Park is a diverse UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing nearly one million acres of pristine wilderness, including glacier-capped mountains, ancient rainforests, and rugged Pacific coastline.
History: Established in 1938 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to protect the region’s unique ecosystems and cultural heritage of indigenous tribes.
Since When: The park was officially created on June 29, 1938, after decades of conservation efforts by local advocates.
Review: Visitors consistently praise the park’s breathtaking landscapes and ecological diversity, though some note the challenge of accessing more remote areas.
When to Go: July through September offers the most accessible weather, while spring brings wildflowers and fall provides colorful foliage with fewer crowds.
How to Go: Accessible via US-101 loop with major entrances at Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rain Forest, and Ruby Beach, about 3-4 hours from Seattle.
What to Do: Hike through Hoh Rain Forest, soak in Sol Duc Hot Springs, explore tide pools at Ruby Beach, and summit Hurricane Ridge for panoramic views.
Free or Paid: $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass, or free with America the Beautiful National Parks Pass.
National Gallery of Art, Washington
Overview: The National Gallery of Art houses one of the world’s finest collections of Western art, spanning from the Middle Ages to present day, with masterpieces by da Vinci, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Picasso.
History: Established in 1937 through a congressional resolution and generous donation by financier Andrew Mellon, who contributed his extensive art collection.
Since When: The museum opened its doors to the public on March 17, 1941, with the West Building designed by John Russell Pope.
Review: Art enthusiasts praise the museum’s exceptional collections and free admission, though some wish for more contemporary works.
When to Go: Weekday mornings offer the most peaceful viewing experience, while special exhibitions are less crowded during late afternoon hours.
How to Go: Located on the National Mall between 3rd and 9th Streets NW, accessible via Metro (Archives or Smithsonian stations).
What to Do: Marvel at the only Leonardo da Vinci painting in the Americas, explore the Sculpture Garden, and attend free lectures or concerts.
Free or Paid: Free admission to all permanent collections and most special exhibitions.