Extending along Puget Sound, the Metro Puget Sound region is home to the state’s urban core, as well as western access to Mount Rainier National Park. Explore world-class museums, outstanding restaurants, professional sporting events, and easy access to nature.
Airports: Airports in the Metro Puget Sound region include Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), and Everett Paine Field Airport (PAE)
Major Highways: I-5, I-405, I-90, US-2, SR-520, SR-99
Climate & Seasonality: Washington’s Metro Puget Sound region has comfortable, dry summers and mild winters with some snowfall.
Nestled between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, Washington’s largest city blends innovation with natural beauty. New additions like the Overlook Walk at Waterfront Park have joined iconic attractions like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. Discover a thriving music scene, global cuisine, maritime history, and more. From craft beer to outdoor adventure, Seattle offers an exciting mix of city energy and Pacific Northwest charm.
Standing 14,410 feet tall, Washington’s most recognizable mountain dominates the skyline in the Metro Puget Sound Region, beckoning visitors to explore. At Mount Rainier National Park, hike past wildflower meadows and waterfalls during spring and summer, marvel at the changing colors come fall, and enjoy stellar skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing each winter.
Just east of Seattle, Bellevue is known for luxury shopping along the shores of Lake Washington. Explore the wetland of Mercer Slough, marvel at native plants in the Bellevue Botanical Garden, sample fantastic global cuisine, and explore The Bellevue Collection, which is home to more than 200 shops.
North of Seattle, Everett offers a mix of maritime charm and aviation history. Aviation enthusiasts can explore the Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum or the Boeing Future of Flight, while families will enjoy the Imagine Children’s Museum or a short trip to Jetty Island, a sandy beach ideal for kiteboarding and wildlife viewing.
Just across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, Gig Harbor is a picturesque town full of maritime charm. Stroll the waterfront lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, or learn about the town’s boat-building history at the Harbor History Museum. Enjoy kayaking in the harbor, scenic parks, and stellar views of Mount Rainier.
Nestled in the Cascade foothills just 20 minutes from Seattle, Issaquah offers easy access to outdoor adventure, from hiking to paragliding. Explore the scenic Issaquah Alps—Tiger, Squak, and Cougar mountains—or stroll boutiques in the historic downtown. The city is also home to the popular Salmon Hatchery, where visitors can watch the annual spawning.
Washington’s capital city of Olympia is home to quirky shops, art, history, and outdoor recreation. Wander the Capitol Campus or tour the Legislative Building. Downtown is home to colorful murals, as well as the city’s burgeoning craft beer scene. Hit the road to explore the Thurston Bountiful Byway or head to Brewery Falls at Tumwater Park for easy access to nature.
Encompassing SeaTac, Tukwila, and Des Moines, Seattle Southside offers a convenient base just minutes from Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) International Airport. Discover urban amenities, waterfront charm, diverse cultural experiences, incredible shopping, and easy access to nearby attractions like The Museum of Flight.
Located along Puget Sound, Tacoma blends industrial heritage with natural beauty. Home to world-class museums like the Museum of Glass and LeMay – America’s Car Museum, the city features a revitalized downtown, a scenic waterfront, and a growing culinary and craft beer scene. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore sprawling Point Defiance Park or visit the zoo and aquarium.
Just 30 minutes from Seattle, Woodinville is a premier wine destination. Home to more than 130 wineries and tasting rooms, the area is organized into four wine districts, each offering its own distinct atmosphere. Enjoy a summer concert at Chateau Ste. Michelle—Washington’s oldest winery—enjoy farm-to-table dining, and more.
Accessible by ferry from Seattle, Tacoma, and the Kitsap Peninsula, Vashon Island offers a relaxed escape with a strong arts community. With farmland, forested trails, and scenic beaches, the island is an ideal destination within the Metro Puget Sound region for biking, hiking, and kayaking. Visitors can also explore local galleries, farm stands, and cafés.
East of Seattle, the Snoqualmie Valley is home to farmland and beautiful natural scenery, while nearby North Bend is known for hiking and its connection to the TV series Twin Peaks. In Snoqualmie, stroll the streets of historic downtown or book a stay at the Salish Lodge & Spa, owned by the Snoqualmie Tribe. Along Highway 2, visit tiny Gold Bar and nearby Wallace Falls State Park. South of Seattle, Puyallup is home to the Washington State Fair.
