With temperatures reaching the 70’s in some parts of Washington State this Memorial Day weekend, there’s no reason to stay home. From the mountains of Olympic National Park to the quiet beach town of Long Beach, there’s something new for you to experience. If you haven’t already made plans for this weekend, I suggest checking out one of these spots.
Olympic National Park
Hands down one of the most beautiful places in Washington. Mountains border you to one side while beautiful beaches border the other. If you visit the almost 1,500 square mile park this weekend visit the Tree of Life at Kalaloch or checkout Ruby Beach just to the north. Both of these places over stunning views of the ocean. Check out Sweet Leaf in Aberdeen on your way for great deals on great weed.
Long Beach
One of the longest beaches you can drive in the United States. Long Beach offers beachcombing opportunities, excellent go-carts, Jake The Aligator Man at Marsh’s Free Museum, or try the Tsunami Burger from the Corral Drive-in. The entire family can find something to occupy themselves. On Memorial Day Weekend they offer the Worlds Longest Garage sale, you never know what kind of treasure you might find.
Leavenworth
This picturesque Bavarian town is nestled in the Cascade Mountains. All of the buildings have Bavarian-style architecture, including the Safeway. Spend time wandering the various shops in town, or head out into the woods for some rock climbing, fishing, or hiking. When the weather warms up floating the Wenatchee picks up, but be sure to end your day with a cold beer at Icicle Brewing Company.
North Cascades National Park
One of Washington’s best-kept secrets. With over 300 glaciers and very few visitors, you should have no problem escaping civilization on a holiday weekend. If you have a camera take it, the abundance of wildlife in the park should create plenty of photo opportunities. Check out The Joint in Burlington for your cannabis needs.
Orcas Island
Orcas Island is part of the San Juans Islands to the north across the Straits Of Juan De Fuca. Unless you have a boat the easiest way to get there is by ferry from Anacortes. There are over 40 miles of trails on the island with breathtaking views of the water and potentially a resident pod of orcas. If you forgot your weed be sure to stop by the Token Herb and support a local business.
Whidbey Island
Just a short drive north from Seattle, Whidbey Island is the opposite of the city. Upon arrival, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled to a whole new world. Deception Pass sits at the north end of the island. This walled in pass offers captivating views, but proves to be very treacherous for boats coming into the park. Check out the tidepools or visit Langley, but be sure to check out Whidbey Island Cannabis Company.
Stevenson
When I was going to school in Eastern Oregon, each drive through the Columbia River Gorge left me speechless. The sheer size of some of the cliffs amazed me every time. I hardly drove on the Washington side, not because it took a lot longer, but because I wanted to enjoy the scenery. If visit Stevenson, be sure to check out the zip line that offers birds-eye views of the gorge, surrounding forests, and wildlife. Even though Stevenson is a bit isolated, The Cannabis Corner can provide you with a variety of cannabis.
Port Townsend
Port Townsend is at the tip of the Olympic Peninsula. If you’re visiting Olympic National Park, make a weekend of it and also go to Port Townsend. The main part of town is very walking friendly. Rent a kayak nearby at Fort Worden State Park to get up close with some of the local wildlife. On your way to Port Townsend stop by the only pot store I know of in a train car, Discovery Bay Cannabis.
Winthrop
If going back in time this Memorial Day Weekend sounds like something you’d want to do, check out Winthrop. Nestled at the northeastern edge of the Cascades, this town offers outdoor activities for everyone. You can even ride a hot air balloon! Fresh Greens offers locally grown cannabis to keep you stoned.
Memorial Day Weekend Honorable Mentions
- Seabrook
- Mount Rainier
- Sasquatch
- Folklife
