Washington DC

Washington, DC, the U.S. capital, is a compact city bordering Maryland and Virginia on the Potomac River. It is defined by imposing neoclassical monuments, including iconic buildings that house the three branches of the federal government: the Capitol, the White House, and the Supreme Court. It also houses iconic museums and art venues like the Kennedy Center.

The U.S. capital is a wonderful city for visitors and you can see and do many great things, with the US Capitol Building being just one of many highlights.

The sights of Washington DC are amazing, and many monuments are scattered around which some of the country’s most renowned people–Lincoln and Jefferson, Martin Luther King… the names are rolling off the tongue. The town drops throughout history because it is the nation’s seat of power.

The focus is the national mall, a formal green space containing the Washington Monument and other war memorials, from Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr. August Americans. The mall includes the Natural History, Air and Space History and other free museums devoted to art, history and culture of the Smithsonian Institution.

Washington DC will surprise visitors with its many beautiful monuments and buildings and a variety of fantastic museums. Here are a number of the best tours that can help you experience the city to give you an idea of what is available to you.

1. Monuments by Moonlight: Washington DC Nighttime Trolley Tour

DC Monuments By Moonlight

One of the most popular tours available, this nighttime excursion takes you past many of Washington DC’s most amazing monuments by trolley. The fantastic sights illuminated in the dark are sure to create lasting memories.

With illustrious monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial and the Martin Luther King Memorial for you to gaze upon, this guided tour will teach you a lot about the history of the capital as well as that of the nation itself.

Beautifully lit, the city’s many monuments look just as good – if not better – at night, and this tour will help you to see the capital in a whole new light.

2. Washington D.C. Classic, Premium or Deluxe Hop-on Hop-off

Hop-on Hop-off DC

With three different loops for you to choose from, this great tour will help you see all the main sights in the city. The audio commentary will make sure you learn a great deal.

The city is littered with impressive memorials, museums, monuments and more; with over forty stops on the loops, you’ll certainly see most of what Washington DC has to offer.

You can choose from a variety of different options, which either give you access to Madame Tussauds or include an extra day’s access to the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing tour.

3. Washington DC: Capitol Building and Capitol Hill Walk

Capitol Building, Washington DC

One of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the whole of Washington DC, Capitol Hill is delightful to wander around and there are many amazing sights for you to check out.

With a professional guide to tell you everything, there is to know about the area, the city will come alive before your eyes and there is lots of lovely architecture on display.

Visiting the US Capitol Building is the highlight of the tour. It is amazing to think of all the important decisions that have been made within it and how they have impacted the world in general.

4. Washington, DC 3-Hour Bike Tour

DC 3-Hour Bike Tour

One of the best ways to see as much of Washington DC as possible is to cycle your way around the city; this tour will take you past all the main sights.

Cycling around the capital is great fun; you’ll be astounded at all the incredible monuments and buildings around, with the Vietnam Memorial and the Jefferson Memorial being among the many highlights.

Culminating with a stop at the imperious US Capitol Building, this bike tour will teach you all about the city and you won’t even have to leave your saddle.

5. Smithsonian National Museum of Air & Space: Guided Tour

Smithsonian National Museum Of Air & Space

One of the most popular museums in the United States, the Smithsonian is well worth visiting when you’re in DC. The professional guide will provide you with loads of interesting information and insight into the exhibitions.

An expansive place with an extensive collection, your guide will take you to the most interesting parts and you’ll learn a lot about the history of aviation and space exploration.

With items like Buzz Aldrin’s space suit on display and a huge model of the International Space Station to explore, the museum is captivating to visit and your guide will ensure you make the most of your time.

6. Washington, D.C. Day Trip from New York

Washington, D.C.

Starting off in New York, this day trip will take you around one of the political centers of the world; you’ll come away tired but happy after a jam-packed day of sightseeing.

With stops at the Arlington National Cemetery, the US Capitol, and the White House included on the tour, your time in Washington DC is sure to be a memorable occasion and your professional guide will tell you all about the ins and outs of the city.

A wonderful trip that is both efficient and well-thought-out, this excursion is a great way to see the main sights in just one day and is a very popular choice amongst visitors to DC.

7. Washington, DC: 3-Hour Segway Tour

Segway Tour DC

Tearing around the city on your segway is a fresh, fun and invigorating way to see the best of Washington DC. It comes highly recommended by people who have been on the tour.

While traveling about town, you’ll see loads of great architecture, as well as numerous monuments and memorials to some of the finest Americans to have impacted the country.

Among the many highlights are the White House, the Navy Memorial, and the Washington Monument, each of which has their own distinctive features and characteristics for you to enjoy.

8. Washington D.C. 6-Hour Sightseeing Bus Tour

Sightseeing Bus Tour, Washington DC

With Arlington Cemetery, the White House, and the US Capitol Building included in this tour, this six-hour sightseeing excursion will take you to see many of the capital’s most prominent attractions.

The commentary from your guide is invaluable; at each of the stops, you’ll learn about the history and importance of the monument, memorial or museum in question.

With ample time to take photos, this packed itinerary is a fantastic way to see Washington DC in a day.

9. Old Town Trolley Tour of Washington DC & Arlington Cemetery

Old Town Trolley Tour, DC

Taking a trolley bus around town is a lovely way to see the city. Remarkably, there are over 100 points of interest which you can stop off at and explore at your own leisure.

With two loops for you to choose from, you’ll get to see incredible sights such as the White House, the Smithsonian, and the Supreme Court, among others.

Also included in the combo deal is a visit to the Arlington National Cemetery, which houses the graves of so many famous Americans.

10. African American History Tour

African American History Tour

Washington DC has long been an important center for African-Americans; their history and culture is intricately intertwined with that of the capital.

After visiting the former home of Fredrick Douglass – an abolitionist and famous freed slave – you will head to Howard University, which is the oldest black university in the States.

From then on, you are taken on a whirlwind journey around many important buildings, monuments and museums that document African-American culture and the civil rights movement in the States. It is a fascinating tour and definitely worth checking out.

11. Washington DC Monuments by Night Bike Tour

Washington DC Monuments By Night

At night, many of the capital’s most impressive monuments and buildings are spectacularly lit up. This nighttime bike tour will take you past the best of them.

Cycling past the National Mall and the Lincoln Memorial, among others, is delightful; they are tastefully illuminated for everyone to enjoy.

An exhilarating experience, this nighttime bicycle ride is a fun way to see the best of what DC has to offer.

12. Washington: Politics & Pints Capitol Hill Tour

Politics & Pints Capitol Hill Tour

Perfect for those who like a debate over a cold pint, this tour will teach you about the history of Washington DC and American politics in general.

Your guided tour around the US Capitol is fascinating for the light it sheds on how the political process works. The Library of Congress and the Supreme Court are fascinating to visit.

After that, it’s off to Capitol Hill to explore some of the historic sights before heading to one of the local bars for a chat and the opportunity to discuss past and present American policies.

13. Washington DC: Full-Day Tour and Boat Cruise

Potomac River, DC

With loads of the city’s most prominent landmarks for you to visit, this full-day tour will take you on a whirlwind journey through the nation’s capital, stopping off at the White House, US Navy Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial, among others.

Your guide will inform and entertain you in equal measure and you’ll certainly come away having learned a lot about the city.

The day culminates in a one-hour boat cruise along the Potomac River, the perfect way to end a fantastic tour as the delightful scenery passes by.

14. George Washington’s Mount Vernon & Old Town Alexandria Tour

Mount Vernon Estate

After exploring the streets of Old Town Alexandria with their historic buildings and plethora of restaurants, it’s time to leave George Washington’s hometown and head to Mount Vernon Estate.

One of the most important and popular tourist destinations around Washington DC, the estate is where President Washington used to live. It is a captivating place to visit, full of history.

The Museum and Education Centre offers an interesting look at the great man’s life. You’re sure to return to DC tired but happy and with a greater understanding of one of the people who so impacted the States.

15. Washington DC 8-Hour VIP Tour with US Capitol Priority Entry

Capitol, DC

With an expert guide on hand to take you around some of the capital’s most important sights, this VIP tour will help you avoid the crowds and make the most of your time in DC.

Visiting the US Capitol and the National Archives Building is very interesting, and the lovely cruise along the Potomac River is a great way to kick back and relax while enjoying the wonderful scenery.

With visits to the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials also included in the package, this tour will take you around the most important attractions in the city. Your guide will ensure that you come away having learned a lot about the nation’s capital.

Washington, DC, the U.S. capital, is a compact city on the Potomac River, bordering the states of Maryland and Virginia. It’s defined by imposing neoclassical monuments and buildings – including the iconic ones that house the federal government’s 3 branches: the Capitol, White House and Supreme Court. It’s also home to iconic museums and performing-arts venues such as the Kennedy Center.

When many people hear the name Washington, the first thing that springs to mind is the District of Columbia. You too probably landed here in search of the best places to live in D.C.

Washington State often gets confused with the American seat of power, and it’s understandable. Turns out, the state went by the name Columbia when it was still a territory. The name change was precipitated by the need to differentiate it with the District of Columbia.

So, how desirable is the Evergreen State for anyone looking to put down roots here?

It is called evergreen for a reason. Washington is a breathtaking wonderland of perfectly landscaped beauty, and it is not that surprising to know its wilderness is rumoured to be a favourite hangout spot for Bigfoot, with over 600 Sasquatch sightings reported.

The state is home to two volcanoes, Mount St. Helens and Mt. Rainier. It has more glaciers than the other 47 contiguous states put together, with a classic Pacific Northwest terrain marked by the Cascades and a treasured coast.

Gallup ranks it as the seventh-most liberal state in America, so you can bet its outdoor-loving folk are a pretty awesome bunch.

The state, the only one to be named after a U.S. president, is the largest apple producer in the country, claiming the bragging rights as the headquarters of some of the world’s biggest and most admired employers – Amazon, Microsoft, Costco and Starbucks.

Expectedly, Washingtonians enjoy some of the highest incomes in the nation, ranking 12-highest in terms of per-capita personal income. This is also one of seven states that don’t pay state individual income tax.

And it comes with the added bonus of making significant savings on your energy bills as the electricity rates in WA are the third cheapest in America.

On the downside, Washington’s beauty and perks of living here don’t come for cheap. This is a state you may want to relocate to if you are well loaded because the overall cost of living is a bit steep, with housing prices that many will consider to be above the roof.

Then again, that is to be expected with the likes of Bill Gates to call neighbours.

Here then, are the best places to live in Washington State based on crime rate, school system excellence, home affordability, and growth and prosperity.

1. Redmond

Redmond

Tech enthusiasts will recognize Redmond as the home of Microsoft, the largest employer in town. The town of 58,000 people was named by Niche.com the #1 best place to live in Washington.

It sits at a very convenient location that is just 16 miles from the state’s largest city, Seattle, and a home here will set you back $485,100 on average.

But that is nothing for the thousands of residents employed in the many tech companies around who take home $103,409 on average per household. Apart from Microsoft, other notable tech firms include Nintendo, Solstice, AT & T and Genie Industries.

Redmond is home to the most popular park in King County, the Marymoor Park, whose 640 acres of sprawling space is used for picnics, sports, festivals, concerts, biking trails and more.

The town also has a distinguished school system which has made the AP District Honor Roll several times.

2. Sammamish

Sammamish

Sammamish is a city in King County bordered by Lake Sammamish where 50,200 people call home.

Cost of living here is higher compared to Redmond, with median home value standing at $609,600. The town has evolved from its rural roots and into a booming suburb that is within convenient location of Seattle (25 miles).

The Sammamish Commons area guarantees acres of outdoor fun, with wetlands and hiking trails, golf courses and grounds for festivals such as Shakespeare in the Park.

As with most suburbs in King County, the public school system is outstanding, from elementary right through 12th grade.

All things considered, it is obvious why Sammamish often ranks as one of the best places to raise a family in Washington.

3. Pullman

Washington State University In Pullman, Washington

Pullman is a town of 31,500 residents located in Whitman County on the southeast side of Washington.

What attracts many people to scenic Pullman is its low cost of living in relation to the perks it offers: low crime rate, high number of restaurants, shops and entertainment options, good education and a plethora of outdoor activities.

You can rent a two-bedroom single-family home in Pullman for $710 (below national average), while home value in the area stands at an affordable $222,900 on average. That’s LOW for an area that has won numerous national awards and received honourable mentions for its beauty.

Pullman is home to the Washington State University where about 20,000 students are enrolled. The University of Idaho is also minutes away as Pullman is located near the Idaho border, just across from Moscow Idaho.

If you are looking for a town that is affordable and has a college vibe with dozens of parks and natural areas, Pullman is an excellent choice.

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4. Issaquah

Issaquah

Issaquah is a suburb of Seattle that is a popular hiking destination, thanks to its rich network of mountains and lakes. It is only befitting then that it be nicknamed the “Trailhead City”.

It is home to one of the largest retailers in the United States, Costco, headquartered here. This is a city on the up, as is evident from the numerous apartment complexes sprouting in the area. However, most of the homes are single-family, with rents averaging $1,533 a month.

Despite the development, Issaquah is not about to lose its soul. The community is set on becoming a source of urban agriculture by incorporating more gardens and local produce.

As far as education goes, the town of 33,682 residents has some of the best schools in the nation. Its class of 2014, in particular, emerged a respectable seventh on the highest composite scores on the ACT.

5. Richland

Richland

Parts of Washington can be darn expensive, and finding places with both low home prices and crime rate can be daunting. As far as a “good affordable option” in Washington goes, we couldn’t find a better contender for that gong than the paradoxically-named Richland.

This is a town in Benton County that is home to 52,300 residents. Rents are lower than the national average ($886) with median home value sitting at $207,100.

Golfing is extremely popular in the area, with four courses that offer 63 holes of golf just within the city.

As with most areas in the Evergreen State, there are numerous parks in this city, especially along the Columbia and Yakima Rivers. Every park activity imaginable is offered in Richland – bird watching, salmon fishing, boating, water sports, golfing, biking you name it. Source: locksmithtricities.com

6. Bainbridge Island

Bainbridge Island

Located in Kitsap County, Bainbridge Island is the definition of Pacific Northwest scenery. The town of 23,400 residents was once recognised by CNN as the second-best place to live in the country.

Not much has changed. The isolated suburb of Seattle continues to live up to its billing with a wealthy diversity and bustling online business community.

Bainbridge Island has an A-one public school education system and promises a range of family-friendly outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, sailing, Little League baseball and many more.

Home values are reflective of the state’s high cost of living, averaging $548,100 (with some even breaching the $3 million-dollar mark. But on the upside, the residents do enjoy high incomes (slightly above $100,000 per household).

Bainbridge Island supports a culturally liberal agenda and is largely democratic.

7. Snoqualmie

Snoqualmie

Snoqualmie is a town in King County with a population of just over 12,000.

The village, whose serenity is broken by the sounds of a waterfall, has witnessed tremendous growth over the years. Between 1999 and 2012, for example, the residents here enjoyed the biggest growth in income in the state.

Snoqualmie may be small, but it has an award-winning school district that continues to grow as more and more residents are lured to its scenic surrounds.

Homes go for $444,900 on average, with residents enjoying some of the highest incomes in the state of Washington, averaging $124,264 per household.

The tight-knit community is eco-conscious, despite the fact it is close to industrial centres. A strong retail sector also ensures the spending needs of the moneyed residents are well catered for. Source: www.ci.snoqualmie.wa.us

8. Kirkland

Kirkland

With a population of 85,000, Kirkland essentially is the 12th-largest city by population in the state of Washington.

You will find it in King County near Lake Washington, a popular tourist destination that offers plenty of parks (a minimum entry amenity in Washington), beaches, outdoor activities, art exhibits, unique shops, bars and restaurants with live entertainment, and more.

Kirkland is completely pedestrian and bicycle friendly. Indeed, it was the first city to enforce alternative transportation methods in city planning and ordinances.

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Kirkland’s residents enjoy high incomes, averaging $92,127 per household. A good deal of these earnings stem from the city’s passion for Little League baseball, which is proudly represented by the Kirkland National Little League team.

The city has been playing host to the Little League Junior Softball World Series in Everest Park for close to two decades now, going back to 1999.

9. Bellevue

Bellevue

Bellevue is a French name that means “beautiful view”, and that is exactly what this city in King County is.

It is nestled between two lakes, Lake Sammamish to the east and Lake Washington to the west. There is a trail called the Lake Trail which connects the two, making it easy to explore both places and enjoy the numerous activities offered in both.

But Bellevue’s beauty is more than Lake-deep.

The city of 135,000 residents is set against the backdrop of Olympic and Cascade Mountains, and the natural scenery is one many neighbourhoods in the area revel in, providing many hiking and bicycle trails for everyone to enjoy.

However, Bellevue is more than just a natural gem. It has a thriving business scene with a long list of star companies based in the area.

T-Mobile. Expedia. Drugstore.com. CoinStar. Savers and Eddie Bauer. Valve and Bungie, the video game developers and many more. As well, Redmond isn’t too far off so the likes of Microsoft and Nintendo still have their significant presence in the city.

Couple this with A+-rated schools, numerous local fairs and festivals like the Bellevue Strawberry Festival, which celebrates the area’s rich history of strawberry farming and vibrant nightlife, and what you have is one of the best places to live in Washington.

10. Woodinville

Woodinville

Woodinville is another suburb of the big city, with a population of 11,400. It has come from humble beginnings, Woodinville, transforming from a small village into a developed town.

But even amidst the growth that has seen more and more schools and businesses pitch tent in the area, the town is keen to hold on to its small-town charm, and that can only be good news for anyone looking to live here.

There are strong schools in the area that are expanding to accommodate more students and the changing needs of the modern curriculum. Case in point is the Woodinville High School which has added a performing arts wing, with a technology and special education building opened in 2017.

Woodinville is the quintessential Washington town, with a wine country that boasts more than 110 wineries. Among them is the Chateau Ste. Michelle, the oldest in the state.

The area remains a popular hotspot for wine lovers, and the booming wine tourism can only spell good news for the local economy.

Median home value in Woodinville is perched at the $454,000-mark.

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11. Maple Valley

Maple Valley

If the outdoors are a special factor for you when choosing a place to live, then Washington’s Maple Valley will blow you away.

Okay, the state’s topography makes the entire lot of it an outdoor haven, but some places like Snoqualmie and Maple Valley take it a step further.

In 2013, the U.S. Department of Education recognised the city’s schools as Green Ribbon Schools. This is an honour attributed to environmental advocacy and education, as the schools here are quite keen to preserve the numerous parks bordering the city, including the famous Lake Wilderness Park.

Speaking of education, the public school district in Maple Valley is outstanding, just like every other entry in this list of 15. The area will also appeal to anyone in search of an affordable place to live in Washington, with homes going for an average $290,100.

There are plenty of ways to get involved in the community through the various organisations that support creative arts, golfing, and of course, Lake Wilderness Park.

12. Kenmore

Kenmore

Kenmore is a town of almost 22,000 people situated on the northeast of Lake Washington. It features a dense forest cover which is very much a treasured part of the thriving community.

Kenmore promises an array of recreational pursuits for the outdoor enthusiast, spanning from biking trails to summer concerts.

This is one of those up-and-coming suburbs of Seattle, and this is very much evident from its growing schools to the city itself.

Schools in the area perform incredibly well, and the entry of new names onto the scene – such as the North Creek High School which launches in fall 2017 – is only going to boost competition.

The city has also started planning an eco-friendly and walkable town square in the heart of downtown as it tries to retain its natural splendour amid the inevitable growth.

Single-family homes in Kenmore go for $403,900 on average.

13. Olympia

Olympia

If you are looking to secure a government job in Washington, your best bet would be to try Olympia. The state government is the largest employer in the state capital, with more than 25,000 staff to call on for the smooth running of its operations.

As with most cities, the crime rate in Olympia is wanting, but it is generally deemed a great place for not just young professionals, but families as well.

With a population of just about 50,000, the city based in Thurston County will appeal to anyone looking for an affordable place to live in the state of Washington. Median rent stands at $952 a month, while homes are valued at $242,100 on average.

What else makes Olympia an appealing proposition is the presence of parks and forest reserves that are more than enough for the small population. The city is absolutely crammed with them.

The Fish Brewing Company, the Olympia Family Theater and Centennial Station are other popular attractions in the capital, as well as the Washington Center for Performing Arts among a host of others.

14. Mercer Island

Mercer Island

Mercer Island is another geographical representative of King County that only goes to show the overall desirability of the county for settlement.

It is home to slightly more than 124,000 residents and is generally considered one of the best places to live in Washington.

Mercer Island is the most heavily populated freshwater island in the United States, with more than 25,000 people living in an area of 6.32 square land miles. The public school system can hold its own with the very best in the country, with six schools stationed on the island alone.

There are numerous popular activities for everyone, examples of which include swimming, fishing, tennis, basketball, softball, outdoor exploration at local parks and beaches, dog parks, hiking and bicycling.

The island is immensely diverse, with many restaurants and bars of note that also offer live entertainment.

Perhaps the only downside to living in Mercer Island is the high cost of living. Four-bedroom single-family properties are upwards of seven figures, with median home value standing at $902,100.

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15. Seattle

Seattle

Capping off our list of best places to live in Washington is the biggest city in the land, a city of more than 650,000 people. There are better options for this spot than this, including Medina (where Bill Gates lives), Clyde Hill and more.

But these places are not for everyone as the median home value alone is a figure most would be content having as their net worth.

Seattle is not all roses and fairies, but there is a reason its larger metropolitan was ranked sixth on the 2017 Best Places to Live in America by the U.S. News & World Report, up one spot from the previous year.

This ranked several factors that included desirability, quality of life, job-market health, migration and “value”.

Median home value in Seattle is $452,800, and the city remains desirable to both young professionals and families.

A great school district, buzzing nightlife, outdoor activities, short commute times, an iconic public market, thriving art scene, shopping and restaurants are some of the biggest draws in the big city.

Spokane is one of the largest cities to be found in Washington state, on the west coast of the United States of America.

Located inland, the city lies at a crossroads in the region, with the border of Idaho to the east, Canada less than one hundred miles to the north, and Seattle three hundred miles to the west.

The mighty Spokane River flows through the city itself, and has contributed to the city’s growth through the decades.

As well as being an important center of business and commerce in Washington state, Spokane is perhaps better known to travelers because of its proximity to some of the best natural scenery in the region.

Aside from the raging torrents of the river, the city is just a short drive away from the wild landscapes of Mount Spokane, where in summer you can hike and in winter skiing is very much the favorite pastime.

Across the state border in Idaho, there are vast areas of wilderness which are protected as National Forests awaiting visitors.

It’s the perfect base in Washington state for outdoor lovers and to help inspire your travels, here are the best day trips from Spokane.

1. Mount Spokane

 

Source: Ric Schafer

View From Mount Spokane

Located just an hour to the north of the Spokane city center, Mount Spokane is one of the best outdoor recreational areas in the region.

Named for the indigenous local tribes that also gave the city and the river their names, this is an area of outstanding natural beauty. It’s also a huge area of wilderness, and the opportunities here are absolutely endless.

There are miles of hiking trails to walk in the summer, with endless views over the mountains and landscapes which make the tough terrain worth every ounce of effort required to traverse it.

Once the snow falls and settles, the area turns into one of Washington state’s best ski resorts, with several ski runs and resorts having been established on the slopes.

Mount Spokane itself is a prominent feature of the landscape, reaching the dizzy height of almost 1800 meters.

2. Little Spokane River Natural Area

Little Spokane River Natural Area

Follow the river north from the city center and you reach several areas of beautiful, protected outdoor reserves.

One of these is the Little Spokane River Natural Area, which is just 10 miles away, but a world away from the city.

There are many outstanding hiking trails to be found along the river, or you can take to the water in a kayak or canoe.

The main attraction, though, is the Indian Painted Rocks. This remarkable archaeological find was painted here over 250 years ago by the local Native Indian tribes.

It’s a well-preserved example of a culture that was unfortunately almost lost with European expansion to the west.

3. Riverside State Park

Source: Dmitry Kovba

Riverside State Park

Also found on the banks of the Spokane River is the Riverside State Park.

This area of beautiful hiking and outdoor trails is just 10 miles away from the city center and makes for a great escape from Spokane for the day.

One of the most impressive areas here is known as the Bowl and Pitcher, a spectacular if turbulent stretch of river that’s surrounded by tall forest.

This is a favorite hiking and camping area, and if a day trip isn’t quite enough to leave you refreshed and immersed in nature away from the city, you can always stay the night too.

4. Nine Mile Falls

Nine Mile Falls

Nine Mile Falls is a small community that’s found on the Spokane River, between the Little River Natural Area and the Riverside State Park.

Like these two neighboring areas of natural beauty, Nine Mile Falls is in equally stunning surroundings on the banks of the river.

Named for what was once a raging waterfall, due to damming projects upstream the waterfall is no longer the sight it once was, but don’t let that deter you from visiting the rest of the magnificent scenery waiting here.

5. McLellan Conservation Area

The McLellan Conservation Area is located along the Spokane River, around 20 miles northwest of the city.

While the recreation areas close to the city can get busy, particularly in summer, this small piece of land remains a more isolated and peaceful affair throughout the year due to its secluded location.

Surrounded on most sides by the Spokane River, this is a beautiful place to escape the city and its crowds.

6. Dry Falls

 

Source: Matt Ragen

Dry Falls, Washington

Dry Falls was once five times the size of Niagra Falls.

Now, it’s almost completely dry. A long, long time ago, at the end of the last Ice Age, the waterfall would have been an incredible sight of crashing water that stretched for miles.

These days, it’s still an impressive sight to see, despite the lack of water, as you can distinctly make out the enormous size of what would have been the falls.

Located around 100 miles to the west of Spokane, Dry Falls is part of the Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park.

7. Grand Coulee Dam

 

Source: Edmund Lowe Photography

Grand Coulee Dam

Also to the west of Spokane, the Grand Coulee Dam is found along the Colombia River.
This huge feat of engineering dates back to the 1930’s, when it was built during the Great Depression to provide both hydroelectric power and jobs.

The huge dam is an impressive structure to see, as is the Roosevelt Reservoir which is created by runoff, but perhaps more interesting is the controversy behind the dam, as when it was built, thousands of local Native Indians had to be relocated.

8. Win Tur Bison Farm

 

Source: facebook.com

Win Tur Bison Farm

Although Bison once roamed the Great American Plains in their millions, overhunting led to their sharp decline when Europeans began to settle in the west.

Today, there are few left, but the Win Tur Bison Farm is one establishment that is trying to make a difference by breeding these unique animals on their farmland.

Visit the farm to see bison roaming, and to learn more about their near extinction in America.

The farm is around an hour’s drive away to the north-west of Spokane.

9. Colville National Forest

 

Source: Anna Mac

Colville National Forest

The Colville National Forest is a huge area of preserved wilderness that is waiting for adventurers in the northeast of Washington State.

Just two hours away from Spokane, this is a rugged, wild and beautiful land that will take you back to times before Europeans began to settle here.

The forest is known for its wildlife, and here you can find bears – both grizzly and black – wolves, cougars and any other classic western American animal you might care to imagine.

10. Walla Walla

 

Source: Rigucci

Walla Walla

Walla Walla is a small city that’s located right on the state border with Oregon, to the south of Spokane.

A charming place to visit, Walla Walla is best known for its wine industry, which has become increasingly popular with visitors over the last few years.

In the surrounding countryside, amongst beautiful scenery, you can enjoy some of Washington’s best wine tasting experiences.

11. Kennewick

 

Source: J.D.S

Kennewick

Just to the west of Walla Wall is the larger city of Kennewick.

The city is on the route taken by the Lewis and Clarke expedition in the 19th century, which opened the west up to settlement from the eastern states.

It lies on the beautiful banks of the Columbia River and is a wonderful place to spend the day exploring.

12. Post Falls

 

Source: Gregory Johnston

Post Falls Dam, Idaho

Just 25 miles to the west of Spokane, but across the border in the state of Idaho, Post Falls is a small town with a big history.

As well as being located amongst beautiful landscapes on the edge of Idaho’s vast forest reserves, Post Falls is where you can find Treaty Rock.

This is where in the 19th century, local Native Indian tribes signed a treaty with incoming settlers, and the agreement was written in paint across huge rocks where it can still be seen to this day.

13. Coeur d’Alene National Forest

 

Source: B Brown

Coeur D’Alene National Forest

Couer d’Alene National Forest is one of the most spectacular areas to visit in nearby Idaho.

Just an hour down the road from Spokane the forest begins, and Couer d’Alene is just one of three extensive National Forest areas that encompass a region known as the Idaho Panhandle.

This is a wild area and it’s home to a huge array of wildlife which makes a marvelous outdoor playground for those looking for a great adventure.

Hike, kayak, bike, whatever takes your fancy, and simply enjoy one of the best National Forests in the United States of America.

You can quite literally spend day after day hiking through this spectacular area, so be prepared to return day after day from Spokane once you have a taste for the beauty that awaits you here.

14. Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge

 

Source: Hanjo Hellmann

Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge

A little closer to Spokane, the Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge is located just 20 miles to the south of the city center.

This is a truly diverse landscape, with a mixture of wetlands and pristine forest protected within the refuge, alongside a huge array of wildlife.

It’s perfect for hiking and camping.

15. Missoula

 

Source: Jon Bilous

Missoula

A three-hour drive away across two state borders, Missoula is the second-largest city in Montana, and it makes for a great day trip for those looking to experience life in Big Sky Country.

The city is surrounded by beautiful forests and is perfect for outdoor lovers looking to get a taste of the landscapes and natural scenery that Montana is so famous for.