Now that summer is slowly on the way out, it’s the perfect time to hit the road. Soak up the last sunny days in the PNW and see some stunning views. After all, a little time on the road never hurts. So with that in mind, here are 10 of the most scenic drives near Seattle to take this summer.
Washington Park Arboretum
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To start off we thought we’d keep things in the city. With that in mind, you can’t go wrong with a drive from Washington Park Arboretum to Seward Park. You’ll get glimpses of beautiful greenery as well as views of Lake Washington. And who can say no to that? We sure can’t.
Where: Washington Park Arboretum to Seward Park
Skagit Valley
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There are very few things more beautiful than the Skagit Valley. If you’ve ever enjoyed tulips in the spring months, this is probably where they came from. So if picturesque fields of flowers and amazing farmland sound like something you want to see, the Skagit Valley is only a short drive from Seattle.
Where: Skagit Valley, WA
Chuckanut Drive
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If you’re heading up north you can’t go wrong with a cruise on Chuckanut Drive. This scenic roadway overlooks Samish Bay and provides views that never disappoint. Plus you can cruise up to areas like Bow-Edison and enjoy some tasty eats and local shopping.
Where: State Route 11
Mount Rainier National Park
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To those of us in Washington, this has become a pretty normal part of our everyday existence. But Mount Rainier is truly spectacular and an amazing place to visit year-round. Not to mention it’s one of the largest mountains in the US and we’re lucky to have it right here. So if you’re looking forward to hiking, scenic drives, sights seeing or mountain climbing this a spot you have to see.
Where: Mount Rainier National Park, WA
Strait of Juan de Fuca Hwy 112
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If you want to head over to the peninsula and have some serious Twilight vibes then you need to check out Highway 12. This highway is a great spot to catch views of Vancouver Island and maybe even some whales so be sure to bring your binoculars. Not to mention you can also check out several local attractions along the way.
Where: Highway 112
Related posts:
10 bucket-list camping spots you can find in Washington
12 of the best hikes to see wildflowers in Washington this summer
Snoqualmie Falls
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Now if you need some Twin Peaks vibes in your life, a drive to the stunning Snoqualmie Falls will surely do you well. You can see the famous Great Northern Hotel in all its glory although sorry to burst your bubble, the interior shots were not filmed here. Anyway, the drive spectacular and the view at the end is just as great.
Where: Snoqualmie Falls
Mount Baker
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Well folks we have to say we’re pretty dang blessed to have multiple beautiful and scenic mountains in our state. So if you’re feeling really hyped about Mount Rainier you might as well check out Mount Baker too. After all, seeing some snow can do all of us well.
Where: Whatcom County
Ferry to Bainbridge Island
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Now hear us out on this one, we know technically a good chunk of this journey doesn’t involve driving. But the key here is the ferry ride. After all, you might as well enjoy one of the most unique things about Washington, our ferry system. You can’t go wrong with seeing the views of Puget Sound.
Where: Bainbridge Island Ferry
Magnolia Boulevard
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Here’s another drive you can do right here in the city! Magnolia is an excellent place to head for amazing water views. All you have to do is take a cruise down Magnolia Boulevard. And of course, you can also check out Discovery Park while you’re in the area for a great stroll.
Where: Magnolia
Alki Point
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Here’s one more spectacular spot to drive in the city. That’s right folks, West Seattle, uou really can’t go wrong with a cruise on Alki because you’ll get to see stunning views of the Sound, Olympics and downtown.
Where: West Seattle
Enjoy all of the scenic drives near Seattle!
