Perfect 6-Day Fall Getaway in Washington State
Let’s be honest—travel is pricier than ever, and those “cheap, hidden gems” all seem to come with a 2-hour line these days. But don’t worry, we’ve got you!
This 6-day itinerary balances affordability, must-see sights, and actual hidden gems, so you can experience Washington State’s fall beauty without selling a kidney. Plus, we’re keeping accessibility in mind—because everyone deserves a great trip.
TL;DR: Your 6-Day Fall Getaway Itinerary in Washington
Day 1: Arrive in Seattle – Wander Pike Place Market, grab coffee at the OG Starbucks, check out Chihuly Garden and Glass, then have a fancy dinner at Canlis.
Day 2: Olympic National Park - Hurricane Ridge – Scenic drive through fall foliage, hike Hurricane Ridge, and cozy up at Lake Crescent Lodge.
Day 3: Sol Duc Falls & Hoh Rainforest – Chase waterfalls, explore a moss-covered wonderland, and soak in hot springs.
Day 4: Scenic Drive to Leavenworth – Take in Cascade Loop Highway views, stop in Wenatchee for lunch, then embrace Bavarian village vibes.
Day 5: Leavenworth Wine & Relaxation – Stroll by the river, sip wine, and indulge in fine dining.
Day 6: Return to Seattle via Snoqualmie Falls – Stop for one last breathtaking view before heading home.
Where to Stay & How to Get Around
Best Places to Stay
Your base depends on your vibe and budget:
Seattle (Day 1 & 6) – Stay at The Edgewater Hotel for rustic waterfront vibes ($350–$450) or CitizenM for a chic budget-friendly option ($150–$200).
Olympic National Park (Day 2 & 3) – Lake Crescent Lodge is a cozy, lakeside retreat ($250–$300). For budget travelers, consider Airbnbs in Port Angeles ($100+).
Leavenworth (Day 4 & 5) – Splurge at Posthotel Leavenworth ($500–$600) or save with Leavenworth Tiny House Village ($150–$200).
Getting Around
Rental Car – Essential for exploring beyond Seattle. Expect to pay $300–$500 for the week.
Ferries – Some Olympic NP routes require a ferry. Book in advance!
Public Transport – Good for Seattle, nonexistent elsewhere. 😅
Day 1: Arrive in Seattle – A Cozy Introduction to the Emerald City
Morning: Pike Place & Coffee Culture
Seattle greets you with misty skies and the scent of fresh-brewed coffee. You’ll land at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and grab a ride into the city. First stop? Pike Place Market, one of the most iconic markets in the U.S.
Wander through the market! Watch the famous fishmongers toss salmon, grab a sample of local honey, and peruse quirky artisan stalls.
Now it’s time for a coffee break. Forget the long Starbucks line and get your caffeine fix at Storyville Coffee, a hidden gem above the market.
For brunch check out Tilikum Place Café. Try their legendary Dutch Baby pancakes (crispy on the edges, fluffy in the center).
🚨 Accessibility Note: Pike Place Market is crowded and has cobblestone streets, but elevators provide access to lower levels.
📸 Picture Spot: Snap a photo under the neon Public Market Center sign.
Afternoon: Arts, Views & Waterfront Strolls
Seattle’s creative side shines with stunning art and sweeping views. Here are some fun ways to see the city!
Chihuly Garden and Glass – A must-see gallery of colorful, whimsical glass art ($32 entry).
Space Needle at Sunset – Get panoramic views of the city from 605 feet high ($39).
Olympic Sculpture Park – A free, outdoor art walk with Puget Sound in the background.
Evening: Fine Dining or Cozy Comfort
For an unforgettable dining experience, head to Canlis ($$$$) for sweeping views of Lake Union, impeccable service, and a refined tasting menu featuring Pacific Northwest flavors. 🍷✨
For a lively, budget-friendly option, Toulouse Petit ($$) serves bold French Creole-inspired dishes in a vibrant setting. Whether you're craving beignets, jambalaya, or craft cocktails, this spot delivers big flavors without the splurge. 🍽️🔥
🚨 Accessibility Note: The Space Needle is wheelchair accessible, with an elevator to the top.
📸 Picture Spot: Capture the twinkling city lights from Kerry Park.
Day 2: Olympic National Park – Hurricane Ridge & Lake Crescent
Morning: Scenic Drive & Mountain Views
There’s something magical about hitting the road on a crisp fall morning, coffee in hand, with golden leaves swirling in the breeze. The 2.5-hour drive from Seattle to Olympic National Park is all part of the adventure, with postcard-perfect views around every bend.
First stop: Hood Canal Bridge. It’s not just a bridge—it’s a floating marvel that gives you panoramic water and mountain views, especially when the autumn colors start popping. 😍 Take a moment, snap a few photos, and breathe in that fresh, pine-scented air.
Once you reach Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center, grab a trail map and get a feel for the park’s rugged beauty. The views from here are already spectacular, with rolling mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. If you’re the type who likes to know what wildlife you might spot (elk? maybe a black bear?), this is the place to get the scoop.
🚨 Accessibility Note: The visitor center has wheelchair-accessible viewing platforms and restrooms. The main lot has paved pathways, but some trails do have uneven terrain.
📸 Picture Spot: Stand at the Hurricane Ridge overlook and take in one of the best views in the park. It’s especially stunning at sunrise if you’re an early riser!
Afternoon: Hiking & Picnic Lunch at Hurricane Ridge
Now, let’s talk hiking. If you’re up for it, Hurricane Hill is a must-do.
This 3.2-mile round-trip trail is the kind of hike that makes you stop every few minutes just to take in the 360-degree mountain views. In the fall, the trees turn a fiery gold, making everything look straight out of a painting.
Not feeling a long hike? No worries. The Meadow Loop Trail near the visitor center is just one mile and still delivers that stunning alpine scenery without the effort of a big climb.
After working up an appetite, find a scenic picnic spot and enjoy lunch with a view.
Whether you packed something from Seattle or grabbed takeout in Port Angeles, eating outside with the mountains as your backdrop just hits different.
🚨 Accessibility Note: The Meadow Loop Trail is relatively flat and manageable, while Hurricane Hill has some steeper, uneven sections.
📸 Picture Spot: Snap a photo at the summit of Hurricane Hill—on a clear day, you can actually see Canada!
Evening: Lakeside Serenity & Cozy Dining
After soaking up all that mountain beauty, it’s time to wind down. Lake Crescent is just a 45-minute drive from Hurricane Ridge, and trust me, it’s worth every mile. This glacier-carved lake is unbelievably still, reflecting the reds and golds of fall like a perfect mirror. It’s the kind of place where you can just sit and let the peacefulness sink in.
Check into Lake Crescent Lodge, a historic retreat that oozes cozy vibes with its crackling fireplaces and rustic charm. Whether you’re staying the night or just passing through, grab a drink on the deck and watch the last light of day fade over the water.
For dinner, head to Next Door Gastropub in Port Angeles (about a 30-minute drive from the lodge). It’s got that fun, laid-back energy you need after a day of hiking, plus some seriously good burgers and seafood. Pair your meal with a local craft beer, and toast to a day well spent.
🚨 Accessibility Note: Lake Crescent Lodge has accessible rooms and paved walkways, but some lakeside trails have uneven terrain.
📸 Picture Spot: Catch the sunset over Lake Crescent—the fiery fall leaves reflecting on the water make for an unreal golden-hour moment.
Day 3: Sol Duc Falls & Hoh Rainforest – A Journey into Washington’s Enchanted Wilderness
Morning: Chasing Waterfalls in Sol Duc
There’s nothing quite like waking up to the crisp mountain air at Lake Crescent Lodge.
After a cozy breakfast, maybe some warm pastries and a strong cup of coffee, you’re off for a morning adventure deep into Olympic National Park.
The 45-minute drive to Sol Duc Falls is a peaceful one, winding through dense forest until you reach the Sol Duc Falls Trailhead.
The hike to Sol Duc Falls is short and sweet—just 1.6 miles round trip, and every step feels like you’re walking through an enchanted forest. Towering trees, soft moss underfoot, and the occasional deer peeking through the ferns make this place feel straight out of a fairytale. The grand finale? A spectacular waterfall tumbling over moss-covered rocks, mist swirling through the air like something from a dream.
Feeling adventurous? The Lover’s Lane Loop Trail (a 6-mile trek) is a great way to extend your hike, following the river past smaller waterfalls and through towering cedar groves. Just keep your eyes peeled—you might spot a banana slug(surprisingly cute), deer, or even a black bear if you’re lucky (and at a safe distance!).
🚨 Accessibility Note: The trail to Sol Duc Falls is well-maintained but has uneven terrain and a few stairs near the viewing platforms.
📸 Picture Spot: The wooden bridge overlooking the falls is the perfect place to capture the morning mist rolling through the trees.
Afternoon: Entering the Hoh Rainforest – A Fairytale Walk Among the Giants
From Sol Duc, hop back in the car for a 1.5-hour drive to one of Washington’s most magical destinations: Hoh Rainforest. This place feels like stepping into another world, where every tree is covered in thick, draping moss and the air is so fresh you just want to bottle it up.
The Hall of Mosses Trail is the perfect introduction. This one-mile loop is an easy, slow-paced walk that winds beneath maple trees completely draped in green. It’s an easy, peaceful stroll that makes you feel absolutely tiny in the best way possible.
If you’re up for a little more, the Spruce Nature Trail is 1.2 miles and follows the Hoh River, giving you another perspective of this otherworldly forest.
🚨 Accessibility Note: The Hall of Mosses Trail is mostly flat and wheelchair-accessible, though some areas may be muddy after rain.
📸 Picture Spot: Stand in front of one of the massive old-growth trees and get that classic “tiny human, big nature” shot.
Evening: Ocean Views & Hot Springs Relaxation
After all that hiking, it’s time to slow things down. Kalaloch Lodge, an hour’s drive south, is the perfect place to unwind. This oceanfront retreat sits right on the Pacific, and if you time it right, you’ll get there just in time for a breathtaking sunset over the waves.
Dinner at Kalaloch Lodge Restaurant is exactly what you need after a day in the forest. Fresh Pacific Northwest seafood, warm clam chowder, and a cozy dining room with giant windows overlooking the ocean.
If you’re keeping it more casual, grab some fish and chips from Ruby Beach Store, a small, no-frills spot known for its fresh catches.
If you miraculously still have energy, take a short walk down to Ruby Beach. The rugged coastline here is nothing short of dramatic, with towering sea stacks, tide pools full of little sea creatures, and waves crashing against the shore. It’s one of those places that makes you want to sit, breathe, and just take it all in.
🚨 Accessibility Note: Kalaloch Lodge has accessible accommodations. Ruby Beach has a short but steep trail from the parking lot to the sand, which can be tricky for those with mobility concerns.
📸 Picture Spot: The sunset at Kalaloch Beach is absolutely stunning—golden light reflecting on the waves, with dramatic sea stacks in the background.
Where to Stay: Cozy vs. Luxury
If you’re looking to splurge, stay at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort and end the night soaking in natural hot mineral pools—your muscles will thank you. Rooms typically range from $200–$250 per night.
For a budget-friendly option, head back to Lake Crescent Lodge for another peaceful lakeside evening, where the crackling fireplace and cozy atmosphere make it feel like home.
Day 4: Scenic Drive to Leavenworth – A Bavarian Escape in the Cascades
Morning: The Ultimate Fall Road Trip
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at First Street Haven in Port Angeles. Think that cozy, small-town café vibe that makes you want to linger just a little longer. But the road is calling, and today’s drive is one for the books.
The Cascade Loop Scenic Highway is pure autumn magic. The winding roads are lined with golden larches and crimson maples, creating a fiery tunnel of color that makes you feel like you’re driving straight into a postcard. Keep your camera handy because every turn is a wow moment.
About halfway to Leavenworth, take a quick break at Deception Falls. This short, accessible loop trail leads you to a stunning waterfall that tumbles through mossy rocks. It's the perfect spot to stretch your legs!
Need a snack? Pybus Public Market in Wenatchee is your go-to stop. This charming indoor market has everything from local honey to fresh-baked bread, plus some seriously good coffee to keep you going. Grab a bite, browse the artisan stalls, and soak up the lively atmosphere before hitting the road again.
🚨 Accessibility Note: Deception Falls has a short, paved path, making it an easy stop for all travelers.
📸 Picture Spot:The highway viewpoints overlooking the Wenatchee River are a must, especially when the fall colors are at their peak.
Afternoon: Welcome to Little Bavaria
Rolling into Leavenworth feels like stepping into a storybook. The town’s Bavarian-style buildings, cobblestone walkways, and mountain backdrop make it an absolute dream, especially in the fall when everything is dusted in warm hues.
Wander Front Street, where every shop has a charming, old-world feel. Pop into a local chocolate shop for some handmade truffles, pick up quirky souvenirs, or browse for unique, hand-carved nutcrackers (because when in Leavenworth, right?).
For lunch, head to McGlinn’s Public House in nearby Wenatchee. This farm-to-table spot serves up comfort food with a seasonal twist. Their house-made apple cider is basically fall in a glass, and their butternut squash soup is the kind of cozy warmth you need on a crisp autumn day.
If you’re feeling fancy, make time for a wine tasting at Icicle Ridge Winery. Sip on award-winning local wines while surrounded by golden vineyards and mountain views that make everything taste just a little better.
🚨 Accessibility Note: Downtown Leavenworth is mostly flat and easy to navigate, though some shops have small steps at their entrances.
📸 Picture Spot: Snap a fun, seasonal shot in front of the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum—because nothing says fall in a Bavarian town quite like a collection of quirky nutcrackers.
Evening: A German Feast & Cozy Stay
As the sun sets over the mountains, get ready for a night filled with hearty food and warm hospitality.
Dinner at Andreas Keller is a must. This local institution serves up authentic German fare—think bratwurst, schnitzel, and massive steins of beer—all while an accordion player fills the air with lively Bavarian tunes. The atmosphere is festive, the portions are generous, and you’ll probably leave humming a polka tune.
If you’re up for it, keep the night going with live music at Munchen Haus. Twinkling lights, flowing beer, and a lively crowd make this an unforgettable end to the day.
Now, where to stay? If you’re in the mood to splurge, book a night at Posthotel Leavenworth, an adults-only alpine retreat with luxurious spa amenities. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly but still cozy, check out the Leavenworth Tiny House Village, where you can snuggle up in an adorable little cabin.
🚨 Accessibility Note: Andreas Keller requires navigating a staircase down to the main dining area, though takeout is available.
📸 Picture Spot: The festive town square at night, glowing with string lights and framed by mountain peaks, is the perfect way to capture the magic of Leavenworth.
Day 5: Leavenworth Wine & Relaxation – A Slow, Scenic Day in the Bavarian Alps
Morning: A Riverside Stroll & Breathtaking Views
Waking up to the faint sound of an accordion somewhere in the distance, and the smell of fresh-baked pastries wafting from a nearby bakery. Today is all about slowing down and soaking in every moment.
Start the day with a leisurely walk along the Wenatchee River Trail. The trees are practically glowing in shades of gold and orange, and if you’re lucky, you might catch the early morning mist rolling off the water. There are plenty of benches along the way, so grab a seat and watch the river work its magic.
Feeling a little adventurous? Stop by the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm for a chance to meet some real-life reindeer up close. It’s an optional stop, but if you’ve ever wanted to pet a reindeer (because who hasn’t?), this is your chance.
🚨 Accessibility Note: The Wenatchee River Trail is paved and mostly flat, making it a smooth, easy walk.
📸 Picture Spot: The river framed by vibrant fall foliage—it’s the ultimate cozy autumn shot.
Afternoon: Wine Tasting & Bavarian Comfort Food
No fall getaway is complete without a little wine, and Silvara Cellars is just the place to do it. Picture yourself wrapped in a cozy blanket, sipping on a glass of Washington’s finest Riesling while looking out over rolling vineyards and golden trees. It’s as dreamy as it sounds.
Prefer something a little more rustic? Eagle Creek Winery is one of Leavenworth’s oldest vineyards, tucked away in the foothills with a more laid-back, intimate vibe. Either way, you can’t go wrong.
By now, you’re probably hungry, and Munchen Haus is calling your name. This outdoor beer garden is the definition of Bavarian charm, long communal tables, the smell of sizzling bratwurst in the air, and steins of beer being passed around like it’s Oktoberfest. Load up your brat with sauerkraut and mustard (there are so many to choose from), grab a seat under the twinkling lights, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
🚨 Accessibility Note: Silvara Cellars has a wheelchair-accessible tasting room and outdoor patio. Munchen Haus is open-air with picnic-style seating.
📸 Picture Spot: You, with a stein in one hand and a brat in the other, fully embracing your Bavarian alter ego.
Evening: A Cozy, Multi-Course Dining Experience
For your last night in Leavenworth, go all out with a dinner at Mana. This place is an experience, not just a meal. The candlelit dining room is intimate and inviting, and the multi-course menu changes regularly based on what’s fresh and local. One night, you might be savoring foraged mushroom soup, the next, smoked steelhead trout or locally sourced elk with cranberry compote. Every bite feels like a love letter to the Pacific Northwest.
If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed, Watershed Cafe is a fantastic alternative. The focus here is farm-to-table, with dishes that feel upscale but in a warm, cozy setting. Think roasted vegetables, fresh seafood, and creative seasonal flavors without the fuss of a tasting menu.
🚨 Accessibility Note: Mana has limited seating and requires reservations. Watershed Cafe is small but has an accessible entrance.
📸 Picture Spot: The glow of Mana’s candlelit dining room, right before you dive into a plate of something incredible.
Day 6: Return to Seattle via Snoqualmie Falls – A Grand Farewell to the PNW
Morning: Waterfalls & Misty Mountain Views
It’s time to say goodbye to Leavenworth, but the adventure isn’t over just yet. The two-hour drive back to Seattle takes you through some of the most scenic parts of Washington, and we’ve saved one last breathtaking stop for the way: Snoqualmie Falls.
There’s something about waterfalls that just never gets old, and Snoqualmie Falls is one of the best. The 268-foot cascade, framed by towering evergreens, is pure PNW magic. A short, paved trail leads to a closer view of the falls, where you can feel the mist on your face and soak in one last bit of nature before heading back to city life.
After taking it all in, grab a cup of locally roasted coffee from the nearby gift shop, sit back, and enjoy the crisp morning air. Honestly, may make you want to extend your trip just one more day.
🚨 Accessibility Note: The upper viewing platform at Snoqualmie Falls is wheelchair accessible, but the lower trailincludes some steep sections.
📸 Picture Spot: Capture the misty falls from the lower viewpoint—it’s the perfect farewell shot.
Afternoon: Cozy Lunch & Last-Minute Seattle Exploring
Before heading back into Seattle, make one last indulgent stop at The Attic at Salish Lodge. This place is the definition of cozy luxury. Waterfall views, warm drinks, and some of the best honey-drizzled biscuits you’ll ever have. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, their smoked salmon chowder is next-level comfort food.
Back in Seattle, how you spend the afternoon depends on your flight time (or how much energy you have left after days of adventuring).
If you’re feeling ambitious, squeeze in a little more exploring. If you just want to chill, find a cute café and people-watch.
For some last-minute shopping, University Village is a great stop. This open-air shopping center has everything from artisan boutiques to local bookstores, making it the perfect place for a few final souvenirs (or let’s be real, a little treat for yourself).
🚨 Accessibility Note: Salish Lodge has ramp access, and University Village is mostly flat with paved walkways. 📸 Picture Spot: A coffee-and-falls shot from your lunch table at Salish Lodge—because nothing says peak PNW like sipping coffee with a waterfall in the background.
Evening: A Final Meal in the Emerald City
For your last night in Seattle, go out with a bang at The Pink Door. Tucked away near Pike Place Market, this spot is a local favorite for a reason. The candlelit atmosphere is romantic and quirky, and depending on the night, you might even catch live jazz or a trapeze performance overhead. The handmade lasagna is a must, but if you’re feeling adventurous, the wild boar ragu is unforgettable. And don’t even think about skipping dessert—tiramisu here is a whole experience.
If you’re looking for something more low-key, Tat’s Delicatessen has some of the best sandwiches in town. Perfect for a quick, satisfying bite before heading to the airport.
🚨 Accessibility Note: The Pink Door has stairs at the entrance but offers an accessible entrance upon request.
📸 Picture Spot: The glowing lights and vintage decor inside The Pink Door make for a perfect farewell shot.
Where to Stay (If You Have One More Night)
Not quite ready to leave? Stay one last night and soak up those final Seattle vibes.
Splurge: Stay at The Edgewater Hotel and wake up to waterfront views of Elliott Bay.
Budget-Friendly: Check into CitizenM Seattle, a sleek, modern stay that won’t break the bank.
Not a Planner? Try These GetYourGuide Experiences!
🚤 Seattle Harbor Cruise – See the skyline from the water.
🌲 Olympic National Park Guided Tour – Let someone else do the driving.
🍷 Leavenworth Wine Tasting Tour – Because one more wine tasting is always a good idea.
🌆 Seattle: Space Needle & Chihuly Garden and Glass Ticket – Two of Seattle's must-see attractions in one day
Estimated Total Cost: What to Expect for This Trip
Let’s talk numbers. A six-day getaway in Washington State is a mix of adventure and relaxation, but how much will it actually cost? Here’s a rough estimate for two people:
Accommodations: Expect to spend between $2,500–$3,200, depending on where you stay.
Meals: Plan for $700–$900 if you’re mixing mid-range and fine dining.
Transportation: A rental car and gas will cost around $300–$500.
Activities: Things like park entrances, wine tastings, and hot springs will add another $200–$300.
💰 Total: Around $4,000–$5,000 for two people.
This itinerary gives you the perfect mix of outdoor adventure, charming small towns, and a little bit of luxury, the ultimate fall getaway.
While it leans on the pricier side, you can tweak the budget by choosing more affordable dining and lodging options. And if you have a National Park Annual Pass, you’ll save on park entry fees!
And just like that, your Washington State adventure comes to a close. Six days of waterfalls, mountain hikes, Bavarian villages, cozy wine tastings, and one last bite of incredible Seattle food. If you weren’t already in love with the PNW, you definitely are now. Safe travels, and until next time! 🚗✨
