Since Michelle grew up in Portland we have visited the Pacific Northwest fairly often and really love taking trips to Washington. Seattle has always been our first stop where we arrive and enjoy the liveliness of the city, enjoying the attractions, events, and especially the food, but the best of the Pacific Northwest is not in the cities, but in the surrounding areas. There you can immerse yourself in the green canopy of the rainforest, enjoy mountain views and waterfalls or go whale watching and explore the islands.
If you are looking for a romantic getaway near Seattle, there are so many choices within a 2-hour drive. Here are our top 5 picks of places to go.
The Lodge at St. Edward State Park
Located within 30 minutes of downtown Seattle, The Lodge at St. Edward State Park is close by while still feeling like an outdoorsy retreat. The Lodge is located in a renovated and restored former seminary dating from 1931 and sits within 326-acres of forest for exploring.
For a romantic getaway, spend some time in the Vita Nova Spa and enjoy a meal at Cedar + Elm, located in the original dining area. After some relaxation, you can enjoy hiking and biking the trails in the park. You can even use one of the bikes available at the Lodge to get around.
Snoqualmie Falls
The Snoqualmie Falls are a beautiful 268-foot waterfall near Seattle with an observation deck at the falls as well as a park with walking trails, so you can enjoy the scenery. Seeing the falls makes for a quick stop, but staying at the Salish Lodge and Spa makes for a great romantic getaway.
The Salish Lodge & Spa is a luxurious hotel nestled directly above the Snoqualmie Falls. It’s perfect for a romantic getaway with its award-winning spa, fine dining options, and cozy fireplaces in the rooms.
During our recent stay, we were in a river view room, which included a fireplace and a balcony with a view of the river and the upper part of the falls. Between the location and the top-notch service, it is no surprise the hotel has won multiple awards and accolades.
We found the food to be one of the main highlights of our stay, especially brunch which included a sampling of baked goods topped with honey made on-site at the apiary. From the dining room, we had a perfect view of the falls, which surprised us with a rainbow in the morning from the mist created by the falls.
For a romantic evening you can enjoy some time at the award-winning spa followed by dinner in The Dining Room. Make sure to check for romance packages before booking your stay.
San Juan Islands
San Juan Islands are an archipelago on the Pacific Northwest coast that are well known for rural landscapes, diverse wildlife and romance. The islands have plenty of farm-to-table restaurants, farmers markets, and are also home to South Beach which is the longest beach in the country.
The most lively area is Friday Harbor where you can shop, eat at some unique restaurants, and visit the Cattle Point Lighthouse.
One things you can not miss is going whale watching together. We enjoyed the zodiac tour which is a smaller group on a faster boat closer to the water.
Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes is situated on 82 acres of property with three spring water lakes. You can enjoy the privacy of one of their 10 room luxury log cabins, perfect for romantic getaways.
The most recent addition are luxury yurts tucked into a private forest surrounded by Fish Hook Lake. Glampers will enjoy 425-square feet of modern luxury available year-round. Each Yurk includes en-suite bathroom with shower, skylight and a private deck with hot tub, dining table and chairs, a BBQ and Adirondack chairs.
North Cascades National Park
The North Cascades National Park is a park with plenty of mountains, glaciers, and forests. It’s the perfect place for people who love the outdoors and offers plenty of hiking trails and lakes.
Located about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Seattle, the Ross Lake Resort has 12 individual cabins perfect for romantic getaways that float on the lake. While the resort is not a luxury resort and has no restaurant, being fully imersed in nature is perfect for couples who love enjoying the outdoors together. From here you can go hiking, fishing or you can rent motorboats, canoes, kayaks, or SUP’s to have fun during your trip.
If you can not get reservations at Ross Lake Resort, go to the Lodge at Stehekin which has guest rooms and private cabins available.
Leavenworth
Leavenworth is a Bavarian-themed town about 90 minutes from Seattle that is known for its Christmas Lights Festival. The town has German restaurants, shops, and even an opera house.
The Icicle Villiage Resort is located in the heart of Leavenworth and offers condos with full kitchens and living rooms as well as suites perfect for couples. The resort has an on-site spa, fitness center, and pool as well as a restaurant. You can also walk to the town from here.
In the summer, Leavenworth also offers rafting, kayaking, and fishing trips.
He is an expert travel advisor and enthusiast. He has traveled extensively in the USA, Central America, South America, and Europe. He has visited every Sandals Resort and is one of a select few Diamond Elite members of the Sandals Chairman’s Royal Club.
Dan graduated from Johnson & Wales University with an associate degree in Culinary Arts. Later he graduated from the University of Utah with a bachelor’s degree in International Studies with a focus on people and culture.