Summer Washington Activities

Summer Washington Activities

Stormie Mwangi, Journalist

1: San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands is the perfect place to live out your island fantasies. The islands have views of whales all year long but it’s best to go in the summer because it will be warm. They also offer kayaking and paddling tours. A popular attraction in the summer is the San Juan Island Farmers Market. The farmers market is complete with fresh fruits and vegetables as well as freshly baked goods. An event that isn’t talked about is the BeLOVED Summer Retreat at Pebble Cove Farm. BeLOVED is a retreat that lasts 4 days and is full of wellness practices and fun. Check out more activities! https://www.visitsanjuans.com/events?view=&fromdate=07%2F01%2F2023&todate=07%2F31%2F2023

 

2: The Space Needle

Now, you’ve probably been here, but have you been here in the summer? The Space Needle is an “Iconic, 605 foot tall spire…with an observation deck and rotating restaurant.” Going on a summer night is even better because you’ll get an amazing view of the sunset and Seattle. Great picture opportunity! Get tickets to the space needle: https://sn.web.ticketing.siaticketing.com/product?productId=116&type=products

 

3: Seattle Pride Festival

The Seattle Pride Festival is a celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community that happens every year in the month of June. This year’s Seattle Pride will happen on the 25th and this will be the 49th pride parade in Washington. It will be a celebration full of fun, good food, music and other activities. A common misconception is that if you aren’t part of the community, you can’t attend. I can assure you that EVERYONE is welcome to attend, even as an ally. Find more Information about the Seattle Pride Festival here: https://seattlepride.org/seattle-pride-month

 

4: Seattle Japanese Garden

Japanese gardens are beautiful year-round, but in the summertime everything is in full bloom. “The Seattle Japanese Garden is a 3.5 acre urban sanctuary.” Japanese Gardens are meant to help with mindfulness and inner-peace as well as serve as a quiet space to let your mind wander. Get information about ticket prices here:

https://www.seattlejapanesegarden.org/location-and-hours

 

5: The Hoh Rainforest

The Hoh Rainforest is the largest rainforest in the U.S. and is considered one of the 7 wonders of Washington. You can find the rainforest on the west side of Olympic National Park. There are two short loop trails you can take which is perfect for the wildly hot Washington summers. Spend some time in the luscious green rainforest this summer, you wont regret it! More information here: https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/visiting-the-hoh.htm

 

6: Lake Diablo

This beautiful lake is located in the North Cascades. This lake is popular for its turquoise color. Although it’s cold, you can swim in the lake. More information here: https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/diablo-lake