Essential Information for Visiting Washington State

If you love coffee, enjoy New World wines, ski on weekends, and have a poster of Kurt Cobain, then Washington might just be your paradise.

Bordered by the turbulent waters of the Pacific Ocean, the diverse “Evergreen State” blends urban elegance with rugged wilderness, where independent-minded city dwellers savor craft beers and thrilling outdoor activities alike.

Known for leaning towards progressive politics, Washingtonians are a creative and entrepreneurial bunch, transforming local innovations into global brands. Amazon, Boeing, Microsoft, Starbucks, Expedia, and Grunge all originated here.

The state is also home to breathtaking natural landmarks such as Mt. Rainier, the fjord-like Puget Sound, and the lush Olympic rainforest. From Bellingham to Walla Walla, an active lifestyle is embraced, rooted in strong environmental values. Make the most of your adventure in this remarkable state with these valuable tips and insights.

Carefully Select Your Transportation Options

Public transport is quite effective in the western part of the state, featuring numerous ferries, city buses, and a major north-south train route. However, if you plan to explore central and eastern Washington, renting a car may be your best bet for convenient travel. Discover more in our comprehensive guide to navigating Washington.

Are national parks open for visitors?

Absolutely! The state boasts three amazing national parks, including the fourth oldest in the nation (Mt. Rainier), the wettest (Olympic), and the least visited outside Alaska (North Cascades). Each offers fantastic backcountry camping and a variety of hiking trails set against breathtaking mountain backdrops.

Is Washington a good skiing destination?

Definitely! The state is home to more than a dozen ski areas, each with unique features and varying snow conditions. Mt. Baker ranks among the snowiest ski areas globally, while Methow Valley offers the second-largest network of cross-country trails in the U.S. Popular day resorts near Seattle include Stevens Pass and The Summit at Snoqualmie. Crystal Mountain, located near Mt. Rainier, is the most extensive resort in the state, offering ski-in overnight accommodations.

Does it rain all the time?

Seattle’s reputation for rainfall is somewhat exaggerated—summers are typically dry. However, the weather in the nearby Cascade Mountains can be unpredictable, even during summer. It’s wise to dress in layers and always carry waterproof clothing.

The eastern part of the state experiences more extreme temperatures—hotter summers and much colder winters. The landscapes found east of the Cascades, characterized by badlands and treeless steppe, reflect this drier climate.

What should I know about sales tax?

Sales tax in Washington is relatively high, with a state rate of 6.5 percent. Local taxes, which vary by city, can increase the total rate to nearly 10 percent in some areas. However, groceries and prescription medications are exempt from tax.

Sales tax is applied at the time of purchase and is typically not included in the listed price.

The locals have a deep appreciation for the outdoors and make the most of it whenever they can

Don’t feel daunted; join them! The diverse mix of lakes, forests, and mountains shapes the lifestyle of many in the Northwest. It’s no surprise that Washington is home to the American Alpine Institute. Residents eagerly embrace the chance to connect with nature without giving up their urban conveniences. It’s entirely possible to hike through alpine meadows at noon and then catch a Nirvana tribute band at a dive bar later that evening.

Tipping is essential

Welcome to the United States, where generous tipping is the norm. A 20 percent tip is standard for most services, including taxis and restaurants, while exceptional service might warrant a 25 percent gratuity.

West Coasters typically don’t dress up for dinner

This isn’t Paris. While some may opt for stylish attire for a night out, it’s far from mandatory. Washington is the birthplace of grunge and the outdoor brand REI, so don’t be surprised to see diners in gourmet restaurants wearing fleeces and sturdy boots. The same relaxed vibe extends to theater outings.

Music is woven into the culture

Since the 1940s, Washington—especially Seattle—has celebrated its musical heritage, starting with jazz and evolving into grunge and rap. Bing Crosby was raised in Spokane, grunge legends Nirvana came from Aberdeen, and the underground feminist punk scene known as Riot Grrrl emerged from Olympia in the 1990s.

Seattle produced notable talents like jazz/blues singer Ernestine Anderson, renowned producer and composer Quincy Jones, rock legend Jimi Hendrix, and contemporary pop-rap artist Macklemore. Remarkably, all four attended the same high school: Garfield in the city’s Central District.

There are numerous impressive music venues, including the outdoor Gorge Amphitheater near Ellensburg, the Dome in Tacoma, and Seattle’s iconic grunge hotspot, The Crocodile, which has recently relocated.

Beer reigns supreme

In Washington, beer is beloved, especially when it’s strong, micro-brewed, and infused with the rich flavors of aged whiskey barrels or, more importantly, hops (the state produces 70% of the nation’s hop supply). The McMenamins chain, known for its rustic, old-world style pubs, is well-established here, and Washington played a key role in the craft beer and microbrewing movement that took off in the 1980s. Explore the local brewpubs and get ready to navigate extensive beer menus.

Coffee is a way of life

Seattle birthed Starbucks and ignited the second-wave coffee revolution in the 1970s and '80s. For Washingtonians, coffee is akin to the British love for tea: a beloved obsession and a cornerstone of the culture. In Starbucks' shadow, numerous smaller roasters have emerged, transforming urban coffee shops into bustling hubs filled with 'laptop campers' enjoying free Wi-Fi and nursing their grande vanilla low-fat lattes throughout the morning.

East vs. West – grasp the differences

Separated by the Cascade Mountains, Washington showcases two distinct regions. The archetypal image of a tech-savvy Tesla driver in high-end Gore-Tex or a craft beer-loving hipster sporting a lumberjack look is predominantly tied to Seattle and the west. In contrast, the eastern part of the state is drier, more rural, politically conservative, and closely tied to agriculture through fruit orchards and vineyards. You might even encounter a cowboy or two here.

The state leans socially liberal

Together with Colorado, Washington was among the pioneers in legalizing recreational marijuana in 2012. On the same ballot, residents also voted to approve same-sex marriage. In 2008, the state became the second, following Oregon, to legalize medically assisted suicide for terminally ill individuals. Abortion rights have been protected since 1970.

Celebrate the freedom to be unique

Washington rivals Oregon as the quirkiest state in the US. Seattle boasts a gum wall, a contentious Lenin statue (saved from the former Czechoslovakia), and a neighborhood (Fremont) that champions its “freedom to be unique.” Winthrop exudes a genuine Wild West charm, while Leavenworth resembles a scene from The Sound of Music.

Explore the essential elements of Washington’s diverse culture

Dutch heritage thrives in the northwest, particularly in areas like Lynden, Whidbey Island, and La Conner, a charming arts town that bursts with tulips and daffodils in spring. Leavenworth, once a hub for railways and lumber, transformed into a German-themed village known as Romantische Strasse in the 1960s, complete with dirndls and sausages.

Poulsbo is a picturesque waterfront community in Puget Sound with strong Scandinavian roots. Seattle’s Central District proudly reflects its rich African American history. Indigenous culture is prevalent throughout the state, particularly in places like Neah Bay's Makah Museum, the Hibulb Cultural Center in Tulalip, and Seattle’s Burke Museum, which highlights Pacific Northwest Native Art.

Volcanoes and earthquakes

Five majestic volcanoes line the Cascades from north to south: Mt Baker, Glacier Peak, Mt Rainier, Mt St Helens, and Mt Adams. St Helens last erupted in 1980, causing significant destruction. The other four are classified as active, with Rainier being the largest and most hazardous. An eruption has been deemed “probable” in the near future. Washington is also near the Cascadia subduction zone, which poses a high risk of earthquakes.

Exploring the great outdoors

Washington boasts three national parks and 31 designated wilderness areas. When exploring these remote locations, being prepared for any situation is crucial, including unexpected weather, wildfires, and wildlife encounters.

Never hit the trails in Washington without bringing essential hiking gear, such as water, purification tablets, emergency snacks, a cell phone, and bear and bug repellent. While bear and cougar encounters are rare, they can happen anywhere, and sightings have even been reported in Seattle’s Discovery Park.

What is the crime situation like?

Washington has a crime rate that is slightly above the national average, primarily driven by property crimes rather than violent offenses. It's wise to take standard safety precautions, especially in urban areas.