Seattle is a lively city with endless things to do, but sometimes a change of pace is just what you need. Luckily, there are several charming small towns nearby that offer a peaceful retreat and plenty of unique attractions. Here are seven of the cutest towns near Seattle that you should check out in 2024:
1. Leavenworth
Leavenworth is a picturesque Bavarian-style village tucked away in the Cascade Mountains, about a 2-hour drive and 117 miles from Seattle. With its German-inspired architecture, festive atmosphere, and delicious cuisine, Leavenworth is a year-round destination.
Visit during winter to enjoy the Christmas markets and sleigh rides, or explore the charming streets and Waterfront Park in the summer.
- Must-See Spots: Bavarian-style buildings, Waterfront Park, Reindeer Farm, sleigh rides, Christmas markets
- Population: 2,491
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round
2. Carnation
Carnation, formerly known as Tolt, is a quaint town located 27 miles and about a 35-minute drive from Seattle. Famous for its Carnation Milk products, this charming town offers a taste of its agricultural history. Enjoy berry and pumpkin picking at local farms, or step back in time at the Living History Museum and explore the English village.
- Must-See Spots: Farms for fruit and vegetable picking, English village, Living History Museum
- Population: 2,515
- Best Time to Visit: June to early October
3. Black Diamond
About 33 miles and a 41-minute drive from Seattle, Black Diamond is known for its stunning mountain views and rich history. Explore the Museum of Black Diamond to learn about the town’s coal and railroad past, or visit historic sites like the Pagani House and a 109-year-old bakery.
- Must-See Spots: Mountain views, coal and railroad history tours, Pagani House, 109-year-old bakery
- Population: 5,310
- Best Time to Visit: November to April
4. Snohomish
Snohomish, located roughly 31.5 miles and 38 minutes from Seattle, is renowned for its antique shops and historic downtown area, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Stroll through the antique stores, enjoy the historic district, and take a hike at Lord Hill Regional Park.
- Must-See Spots: Antique shopping, historic downtown, Lord Hill Regional Park
- Population: 849,070
- Best Time to Visit: May to August
5. Snoqualmie
Just 29 miles and a 31-minute drive from Seattle, Snoqualmie is famous for its breathtaking Snoqualmie Falls. Admire the 268-foot waterfall, stay at the nearby Salish Lodge, and explore the Northwest Railway Museum and local boutiques.
- Must-See Spots: Snoqualmie Falls, Salish Lodge, Northwest Railway Museum, boutique shopping
- Population: 13,161
- Best Time to Visit: Spring
6. Woodinville
Woodinville, located around 20 miles and 23 minutes from Seattle, is a great spot for wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy wine tasting at local wineries like Chateau Ste, explore the Sammamish River Trail by bike, or swim at Saint Edward State Park.
- Must-See Spots: Wine tasting at Chateau Ste, local wine bars, Sammamish River Trail, swimming at Saint Edward State Park
- Population: 13,261
- Best Time to Visit: March to September
7. North Bend
North Bend, about 30 miles and a 30-minute drive from Seattle, is known for its stunning mountain views, including the iconic Mount Si. Hike the trails for amazing valley views, visit Twin Falls, and relax by Rattlesnake Lake. Don’t miss out on the local coffee at popular spots like Huxdotter Coffee Shop and Arete Coffee Bar.
- Must-See Spots: Mount Si, Twin Falls, Rattlesnake Lake, coffee shops
- Population: 8,302
- Best Time to Visit: June to August
These lovely towns offer a perfect escape from city life, with everything from scenic hikes to charming shops and local cuisine. Take a break from Seattle and discover the unique character and tranquility of these nearby destinations.