Cabins in Washington State

Salmon is the undisputed symbol of Pacific Northwestern cuisine, so make sure to savor all those salmon preparations whether baked, grilled or fried. Washington Dungeness crab is a hit with West Coast shellfish fans while farm-raised clams, oysters, mussels and geoducks (the world's largest burrowing clam and unique to Washington and Canada) are some of the tastiest around. Seattle's fish market is a fun place to watch the vendors juggle fish.

Washington is internationally acclaimed for its local produce, including apples, pears, cherries, blueberries, wild blackberries and huckleberries. Eat them fresh or in ice creams, cakes, juices and pies. A tour of the state's wineries and a visit to the farmer's markets at Yakima Valley farms are recommended. Pick some meats and cheeses to enjoy later in your Washington State vacation rental.

Washington's climate is as diverse as its geography: while the West Coast can be quite rainy, especially in fall and winter, the eastern part of the state is dry and arid. For the peak season in summer, when the West Coast experiences less rain and more sun, Washington State vacation rentals need to be booked far in advance. The winter months can get chilly and rainy (which means snow in the mountains!), so come prepared for the weather. Whether rain or shine, visitors can make the most of their stay in Washington State with the perks of a vacation home.

Washington State is known for its profusion of natural monuments, historic parks and trails. The state's star attraction is Mount Rainier National Park, perched upon a gigantic active stratovolcano over 14,000 feet high. Come here for the wild flowers, snowy paths and hiking trails.

The Olympic National Park is often referred to as "Tolkienesque" for its mystical, lush landcapes comprising temperate rainforests, lakes, ridges, capes, beaches and coastal springs. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is worth a visit for those interested in the science of volcanoes: it preserves the geography of the volcano after the historic eruption in 1980, which impacted the surrounding area for hundreds of miles. The Johnston Ridge Observatory here provides fine views of the volcano and its horseshoe-shaped crater.

With its rich history and cultural influences, Washington State has plenty of interesting options when you want to explore art and culture-related attractions. The Seattle Art Museum features everything from European sculptures and paintings to various changing exhibition programs.

If unusual art and sculpture is more your style, head to Dick and Jane's Spot in Ellensburg. The duo have converted their home into a unique art collection that features works of more than 40 Northwest artists. There are also thousands of reflectors and bottle caps that form exhibits in the yard area.

While in Washington State, you can move out of your vacation rental and find something of interest at every corner. But if you love exploring the outdoors with your family, the Nisqually Vista is the place to visit. This beautiful hiking loop is excellent for people of all skill levels and the wildflowers are a sight to behold. July-August is the best time to visit this short trail. Suncadia is also a good option you're a keen hiker.

The Olympic Game Farm in Sequim is an excellent destination for some ‘wild’ fun. The children will be thrilled to feed the zebra and antelope among other animals while a drive-through tour offers every visitor a chance to view wildlife in their natural habitat. There is also a petting farm, a pheasant aviary and a reptile house for a fun day out with the entire family.

The forested San Juan Islands are popular with locals who flock here during summer to watch the stately orca whales feeding in the sea. The islands are also good spots for bird-watching, camping, scuba diving, sailing and swimming. During winter, you can take the family down to the Mount Baker Ski Area, which offers splendid mountain views and winter sports galore.

East of the Cascade Mountains, Frenchman Coulee is a stunning remnant of the great Ice-Age floods — watch out for the cascading waterfalls and striking basalt columns. Anglers, take note of the salmon, trout, albacore tuna and bottomfish that await in the freshwater lakes. You can grill them at your Washington State rental home for dinner!

When you feel like forgetting all mundane worries and rejuvenating in nature, nothing will do it better than being part of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Millions of colorful tulips burst into full bloom in April.

This stunning sight will stay in your mind long after your vacation is over. The unique festival has been an annual feature for over 30 years and attracts visitors from all over the world.

Sky View Observatory

Situated on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center, the Sky View Observatory is the tallest public viewing platform in northwest America. Enjoy 360-degree views across Seattle and beyond.

Manito Park

Manito Park is one of Spokane's finest botanical gardens with formal flowerbeds, an arboretum and conservatory. Playgrounds and cafés make it a popular destination for families.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

Showcasing the stunning glassworks of artist Dale Chihuly, this Seattle museum features both indoor and outside exhibits, a lecture theater, a shop and a café.

Mount Rainier National Park

The active volcano of Mount Rainier stands at the center of this National Park, which offers endless opportunities for wilderness hiking, camping and climbing.

Space Needle

Lifts whisk you up to the top of Seattle's Space Needle in just 40 seconds, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the city, or savour a meal in the revolving restaurant.