Encompassing sophisticated urban areas, such as Seattle, and forested islands with mountain views, Puget Sound is nothing if not diverse.
Puget Sound impresses with its jaw-dropping natural beauty, interesting historic cities and scenic byways that help visitors journey through Washington state. Take a sailboat to an island off the coast, visit one of Seattle’s many fascinating museums and attend an art festival in a historic town.
Allow plenty of time to properly explore the large Puget Sound region, which stretches all the way from the northern tip of the state down to Olympia and Yelm. Puget Sound is an inlet of the Pacific Ocean that runs through northwest Washington. This complex estuary system has created varied landscapes including small peninsulas and breathtaking islands.
Seattle, known for its coffee culture and Space Needle tower, is Washington state’s largest city. Explore its trendy shops and the red brick buildings of Pioneer Square, a district that dates back to the Gold Rush. Buy locally made goods and fresh produce at Pike Place Market, browse exhibits at the Frye Art Museum and go for a stroll in Discovery Park, which backs onto the beach.
At the base of Puget Sound is Tacoma, known as the “City of Destiny.” The city hosts several summer art festivals and also features the fascinating Museum of Glass and the Washington State History Museum.
Washington’s Native American history takes center stage in Suquamish, home of the Suquamish Tribe. Visit the memorial of Chief Seattle, an influential leader, at Suquamish Memorial Cemetery. Suquamish’s location along the Agate Pass means it is a good vantage point for stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and Mt. Rainier.
Puget Sound’s islands make for great daytrips from Seattle. Take a ferry to Whidbey Island and taste fresh ingredients grown at local farms. Vashon is a peaceful retreat for hikers and beachcombers who want to explore without worrying about crowds.
Fly into the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport or arrive by Amtrak train from nearby cities. Rent a car to travel around the Puget Sound and hop on ferries to reach the islands.
Puget Sound is a jewel in Washington’s crown and a magical place to discover the legendary natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
