Easy, Spontaneous Day Trips for Seattle-Area Families

With so many lengthy school breaks ahead, it’s a good time to think about getting away. But sometimes, even if you’re desperate for a change of scenery, a big vacation isn’t in the cards. Maybe it’s not in the budget or you’ve got a future trip planned, but you still want to take a vacation, like now. When you need a quick nearby getaway, we invite you to consider these easy, spontaneous daycation ideas for families. 

Just pack the kids, the jackets and hats — and lots of snacks — into the car and go. (Pro tip: A full set of dry clothes, at least for the little kids, is never a bad idea.)

Now, off you go to these fun and family-friendly destinations within a couple hours of Seattle.

Whidbey Island

Whidbey offers families beaches, trails, cute seaside towns and two epic state parks worth a visit from anywhere. Hop on the ferry in Mukilteo or head toward Anacortes and drive across the heart-stopping Deception Pass Bridge.

Port Townsend

Port Townsend is a lovely Victorian seaport that will please visitors of all ages. Get the really good popcorn, lunch like a local and save a good chunk of time for exploring phenomenal Fort Worden. (Then watch “An Officer and a Gentleman” when you get home and have put the kids to bed.)

Bellingham

This hip college town is all about the parks. You could spend days exploring Whatcom Falls, Lake Padden, Boulevard Park and more. Stroll the streets of historic Fairhaven. And might we suggest taking the kids on an advance college visit to fantastic Western Washington University?

Vancouver, B.C.

Closer than you think, Vancouver, B.C. provides more than a day’s worth of fun for families. But if you make a plan, you can probably pack it all in and still make it home for bedtime. An incredible aquarium, delightful public market (similar to Pike Place) and a magically lit suspension bridge should be on your list of must-see spots.

Fall City

Nestled along the banks of the Snoqualmie and Raging rivers, Fall City has a thriving arts community that hosts a variety of family programs and fine arts events throughout the year. Throw in great parks, farms and places to stop for yummy treats and you’ve got all the ingredients for a fun day trip.  

Gig Harbor

A visit to charming Gig Harbor deposits you right into our region’s maritime history. You can learn about salmon and how to keep our oceans healthy as well. Visit a super kid-friendly museum, play games and bowl on a rainy day, explore a bunch of parks, and dip your toes in the water at Bella Bella Beach.

Vashon Island

When you visit Vashon Island, a beautiful ferry ride whisks you across the water, taking you from city to country in mere minutes. Play with driftwood on the beach, take in the view of Mount Rainier if the sun gods cooperate, visit the town for snacks or lunch, and see if you can spot the bike tree.

Bainbridge Island

Walk on the Bainbridge ferry for a jaunt across Elliott Bay — if you don’t bring your car, you don’t have to wait in the ferry line! Stroll the town of Winslow and savor its small-town feel. If you bring your hiking shoes, and your car or transit fare, you can check out the beauty of the island on kid- and dog-friendly hikes. Keep an eye out for gnome homes as you wander through the forest. Be sure to pop out of the woods long enough to visit this one-of-a-kind playground before heading back to the city. 

Vancouver

Just before you hit the Oregon border is up-and-coming Vancouver, Washington, a once sleepy, now trendy getaway destination for families. The revitalized waterfront, street art, kid-friendly dining options and proximity to nature (it’s just 30 minutes to the Columbia River Gorge waterfall corridor) provide families with plenty of activity options, no matter when they travel. 

Leavenworth

It’s true: Leavenworth is an ambitious day trip, but if you’re up to the challenge, winter is an especially good time to make the effort. This Bavarian-themed mountain town offers such a complete change of scenery from the city that it might be just what your family needs. Visit the shops, go sledding in town, eat traditional German fare and check out the Leavenworth Adventure Park that’s open year-round. Enjoy!

Editor’s note: This article was originally published in 2021 and was most recently updated in November 2024 by ParentMap’s managing editor Allison Sutcliffe to include a fact-check and new day trip ideas for Seattle-area families.