From sweethearts stealing smooches during a sunset cruise to couples canoodling on a sleigh ride through the snow, one thing’s clear: Washington’s cities offers plenty of trip ideas for romance. Prepare to ignite some starry-eyed gazes at one of these dreamy Washington destinations.
San Juan Islands
In summer, it’s hard to top the picturesque San Juan Islands, which boast secluded beaches, glimmering coves, and forested hills. Venture out for a bike ride through rolling greenery, or kayak together to a private picnic on shore.
Whidbey Island
Farther south, Whidbey Island seems made for wining and dining with eateries specializing in Penn Cove mussels that are pulled fresh from nearby waters.
Washington Wine Country
Let days blend into
a delicious blur as you
and your mate stroll
and sip through Washington Wine Country, where wineries and tasting rooms are an ideal way to get love-drunk. Wine country cities include Benton City, Grandview, Kennewick, Naches, Pasco, Prosser, Walla Walla, Union Gap, Yakima, Zillah and West Richland. Find wineries and tasting rooms in Washington Wine Country.
Quincy
In North Central Washington, near the Columbia River, soak in breathtaking views from a cliff-side perch at Cave B Estate Winery in Quincy. Tip: the 100-acre vineyard also has an intimate spa.
Paradise
Even more enamoring sights abound around the state: In the shadow of Mount Rainier, Paradise’s alpine meadows are lush with wildflowers in July and August. The sun puts on a blissful show, melting into the horizon in a vivid orange haze, as ferries coast across Puget Sound.
Skagit Valley and La Conner
Lovebirds tiptoe to tulip fields during the annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival in April, where the colorful blooms create a sweet-smelling backdrop throughout Skagit Valley. Meanwhile, La Conner is always a dreamy setting for whispering sweet nothings with a historic marina, gallery-lined streets, and cozy restaurants right along the Swinomish Channel. Find more Washington festivals.
Leavenworth
Centuries-old trees and moss-heavy branches create ancient, awe-inspiring splendor in the Olympic Peninsula’s Hoh Rain Forest. Planning to visit in winter? Leavenworth, nestled in the Cascade foothills, gives sweethearts reason to snuggle with horse-pulled sleigh rides in winter and glimmering lights that illuminate the snowy hamlet. Check out more Washington winter activities.
Tip: Planning to get married in Washington?
For those looking to tie the knot here — including same-sex couples — a marriage license is valid after a three-day waiting period and for up to 60 days. Licenses may be obtained in person (or via mail) and fulfilled at any of the state’s romantic locations.
—Angela Cabotaje
