60+ Fun Washington Elopement Ideas & Activities

Elopements

Welcome to the biggest list of Washington elopement ideas & activities that you didn’t even know you needed!! I’m constantly giving couples reccs on what to do in this incredible state for their elopements, sooo I figured I’d just compile everything in one, easy place for you to reference. I f**king love Washington because there is truly something for every type of elopement – for couples who want to go on 20-mile backpacking trips through the mountains, couples who would rather enjoy the views from a car or boat, couples who just wanna party it up in the city. . . the sky is the damn limit here.

This guide is a big ol’ conglomeration of fun things to do for your Washington elopement, with activities & ideas ALL over the state. I’ve organized it into categories to make it easier for ya: we’ve got plenty of outdoor activities, a few indoor ones for rainy days, adventurous ideas for you thrill-seekers, relaxing ideas for anybody who would rather have a spa day, and unique places to stay. I also added a special section dedicated solely to Seattle, since that’s where I’m based and I know a lot of my couples love to live it up in the city + want food/drink reccs!!

60+ might sound like a lot, but I promise you’ll find at LEAST one or two things you want to incorporate into your dream Washington elopement to make it super-duper special 😉

60+ Washington Elopement Ideas & Activities

Outdoor Ideas

Let’s start off with a bunch of outdoor activity ideas for a Washington elopement! This is def the biggest section of the guide because Washington is pretty well-known for its epic landscapes + outdoor rec. I personally am not the gal you’ll find going on a 12-mile uphill trek through the mountains – I’d rather drive up to the gorg view or enjoy the scenery from a rooftop bar – so all of these first ideas are pretty tame, adventure-wise, for those of you who are the same!! But don’t worry if you ARE a more adventurous couple, there’ll be a section for you too 🙂

1. Go whale-watching in the San Juans

You can’t miss out on some of the best whale-watching opportunities in the country!

2. Take a sunset cruise on Lake Union

This would be suchhh a bomb way to end your reception, enjoying a luxury yacht tour with all your guests🔥

3. Walk through the magical Hall of Mosses

Literally one of the most enchanting places you will EVER visit. The trail is short, flat, wheelchair-accessible, AND takes you through a magical moss-covered forest that deserves to be in a fairytale✨

4. Ride the Crystal Mountain Gondola

Don’t wanna hike to get epic views of Mount Rainier? Same! Ride the Crystal Mountain Gondola to the summit for 360-degree views without breaking a sweat 😎

5. Go apple-picking in Wenatchee

How could you not pick apples in the apple capital of the world? Bonus points if you do it in the fall when you can enjoy delicious cider, too 🤤

6. Take a ferry across Puget Sound

It’s super easy to get to a variety of towns from Seattle, including Bremerton, Bainbridge Island, and Vashon Island – all of which make great day trips from the city!

7. Take a scenic drive along the North Cascades Highway

Take in the phenomenal views that the North Cascades have to offer without having to bring your hiking backpack along 😉 Just pull over on the side of the road where it’s safe and breathe in that crisp mountain air!

8. Explore the beaches of LaPush

Yes, the same LaPush from Twilight! La Push has multiple stunning beaches that you won’t want to miss when you’re visiting the Olympic Peninsula.

9. Go waterfall-chasing in the Columbia River Gorge

If you want to elope in front of a cascading waterfall, then the Columbia River Gorge is no-doubt the place for you. There are waterfalls EVERYWHERE in the gorge, and most of them are super easy to get to just off the highway!

10. Take kayaks & paddleboards out on Lake Crescent

Lake Crescent is one of the manyyyy pretty sparkling alpine lakes in Washington, and honestly one of the best in my opinion. It’s easy to get to, the views are impeccable, and it’s the perfect place to spend a day out on the water!

11. Walk around the Bavarian-style village of Leavenworth

Yup you heard me right, Washington has a very random, Bavarian-styled village in the middle of the Cascade Mountains – and it’s such a fun place to go with friends!

12. Admire the fall foliage at Artist Point

The fall foliage is honestly amazing anywhere in Washington, but Artist Point is one of my fave places to experience it. Mount Baker in general is just epic, and Artist Point is easy to get to + has freaking EPIC views.

Couple kissing in the rain with fall colors

13. Make a rest stop at Washington Pass Overlook

A must-see when you’re driving along the North Cascades Highway. It’s literally just a rest stop on the side of the road, but if you walk a minute or two into the trees, they’ll open up for the most phenomenal mountain views.

14. Visit Sunrise – at sunrise

Sunrise is located on the northeastern side of Mount Rainier, about 2.5 hours south of Seattle, and boats some pretty freaking amazing views especially if you get a colorful sunrise! You can just drive up to the visitor center, or hike around the area if that’s more your thing.

15. Stop at the sparkling alpine lakes in the North Cascades

The North Cascades are famous for their iconic, vibrant blue lakes that you can see while driving along the highway! Def worth stopping at the overlooks & vista points if you have the time, especially the Diablo Lake Overlook.

16. Have a movie night in the trees at the Emerald Forest

The Emerald Forest is one of the most unique places in the Seattle area – it’s home to a massive luxury treehouse that was featured on Treehouse Masters, AND a super cool outdoor movie theater in the trees (literally).

17. Admire the tulips in Skagit Valley

If you’re eloping in the spring, see if you can make it to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival to admire all the stunning fields of color!

18. Get a taste of the wild west in Winthrop

Winthrop is a unique little wild-west mountain town in the North Cascades and makes for a great pitstop when you’re making your way across the state!

19. Spend a day on the water at Lake Chelan

Head out on the crystal clear waters of Lake Chelan orrrr just enjoy a wine tasting at one of the charming vineyards nearby if that’s more your vibe!

Indoor Ideas

I know that Washington is famousss for its rain and it can be easy to let bad weather ruin your day, but honestly, eloping in the rain or cloudy weather is just as magical if you embrace it! This section is pretty small because I always encourage my couples to make the best of the weather and still explore the locations they originally planned, as long as it’s safe to do so. But if it is just TERRIBLE out and we need something to do inside, instead, here are a few ideas to start with! You can also obviously take any ideas from the food/drinks section for indoor places to visit.

20. Enjoy the greenery at Volunteer Park Conservatory

Explore the beautiful outdoor grounds and head inside to the conservatory for some lush, dreamy AF tropical plants!

21. Cook a meal together in your Airbnb

Wake up early and make breakfast together, have brunch with your fam, or just pop a K-cup in your Keurig and sip coffee out on the porch.

22. Go bar-hopping in the city

Relaxing in the woods not quite your vibe? Head into the city and check out the top bars in Seattle’s best neighborhoods!

23. Take portraits in a studio in the city

Get creative and rent a studio in the city for some fun indoor portraits with props, backdrops, & soft natural light (perfect for rainy days when you don’t want to get soaking wet!).

Adventurous Ideas

Nowww we’ve got the more adventurous ideas for couples who want a little more of a thrill! Washington literally has SO MANY of the best hikes in the country so I couldn’t just list them all out, but if you want a more in-depth guide to all of the most epic locations in the state, check out my guide to the Best Places to Elope in Washington State!

24. Take a helicopter ride over the mountains

All my true thrill-seeking couples, this one’s for you! There’s no better way to get epic views of Washington’s breathtaking mountain ranges than from above, chilling inside of a helicopter.

25. Go skiing at Mount Baker

Baker is known for having some of the best snowfall for skiing in the country, along with stunning views of the surrounding wilderness + North Cascades. If you’re big fans of winter activities and want to elope in a magical winter wonderland, this is the place to do it!

26. Take one of the many hikes from Paradise

Paradise is one of the most iconic locations at Mount Rainier, named after the literal paradise of wildflowers, lush green trees, and insane mountain views (who could’ve guessed?)! It’s also the starting point of a TON of trails, ranging from an easy walk to a waterfall to challenging hikes to fire lookouts, so there’s really something for everyone. You can have your cake… and eat it too!! 😎

27. Pitch your tent at a campsite in the trees

If you’re big outdoorsy people and love spending all your time out in nature, why stop when the day ends?! If you don’t feel like renting an Airbnb, bring your camping gear instead and choose from the manyyyy amazing campsites Washington has to offer. Bonus points if you have your photog stay late with you to get some romantic photos under the stars 😉

28. Go rock climbing in Vantage

Vantage is one of the areas of Washington that not a lot of people know exist – it’s actually a desert in eastern Washington! Yes, we have deserts here; shocking, I know. It’s one of the best locations in the state for rock climbing so if that’s your thing, you could find a cool Airbnb overlooking the Columbia River and enjoy all that the desert landscape has to offer.

29. Ride a hot air balloon in front of Mount Rainier

There’s literally no better way to see Mount Rainier than from a hot air balloon floating high up in the sky – what a magicallll way to celebrate your big day, especially if you go at sunset😍

Relaxing Ideas

Wanna spend your elopement getting in some well-deserved R+R? Hell yes to getting pampered, enjoying a taste of luxurie, and being bougie AF! Washington has so many unique opportunities to relax out in nature, as well as plentyyy of cozy resorts & lodges with top-tier indoor spas. 10/10 recommend booking a couples massage the day before your elopement, and maybe a couple of facials. . . and maybe a mani/pedi while you sip on glasses of champagne. . . 😉

30. Soak in the Sol Duc Hot Springs

Rent a charming little cabin in the trees and then head to these super relaxing hot springs right on the Olympic Peninsula – the perfect way to relax before or after your big day✨

31. Book a spa day at Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort

Couples massages the day before your elopement?? Yes please! Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort is a beautiful resort in Leavenworth with an amaaazing spa that’s just calling your name. Facials, massages, hot tubs, yes please!

32. Go wine tasting in the Columbia Valley

The Columbia Valley produces some of the best wine on the West Coast, so if you’re wine connoisseurs (or you just enjoy a yummy wine tasting with your BFFs), this would be such a fun activity to do during your time in the area! Go by yourselves or bring a group of your guests and sip on allll the delish wine varieties that the valley has to offer.

33. Go stargazing

Once again: you should def hire your photographer to stay later if you end up stargazing! Either pitch a tent in the woods or the desert, or find an Airbnb that has a spacious deck or outdoor area. Make sure you’re far away from light pollution, that the skies are clear, and that the moon isn’t too bright at the time of your elopement if you wanna get the best stargazing opportunity.

34. Have a picnic at Cape Flattery

Cape Flattery is probably one of the most drop-dead gorgeous coastal locations in Washington, and fun fact: you can take the Cape Flattery trail to get to the Northwestern-most point of the continental U.S.! This would be an epic place to take a stroll along the beach and have a picnic at sunset🔥

35. Cook breakfast together in your Airbnb

Wanna make the morning of your elopement extra special and intimate? Get up early and cook breakfast + make coffee together in your Airbnb, then go enjoy every bite + every sip out on the deck, the lawn, whatever outdoor space you have access to. This is a great way to start off your day on a sweet note, spending some quality time together and slowing down to enjoy every moment of the morning!

36. Cozy up around a campfire with s’mores

What better way to end the best day of your lives than with a group of your closest friends, sitting around a campfire and making s’mores? Bring out some drinks, hot dogs, games, whatever you’re feelin’ and bask in the excitement of the day with the people you love.

37. Float & bath in Soap Lake

Soap Lake is a super unique lake in eastern Washington, near Moses Lake. The lake’s mud & water contain a ton of different minerals, kinda like the Dead Sea in Israel, so it’s said that swimming in the lake can bring a lot of healing properties! This would be a great way to prepare for the big day, or relax afterward with your fam and friends, especially if it’s warm & sunny out.

Accommodation Ideas

Ok now this is one of my favorite sections – “accommodations” might sound boring but when it comes to Washington, there is NOTHING boring about finding a place to stay! There are so so many one-of-a-kind options in every part of the state, whether you wanna stay in the woods, on the water, or in the city. Spoiler alert: you may actually have a hard time picking WHICH of the many luxury treehouses you want to stay in!

38. Spend a night at TreeHouse Point

TreeHouse Point is one of THE coolest places to stay in the whole PNW. It’s a cozy resort in the woods that offers upscale treehouses for you to stay in, as well as shared baths and yoga classes. And fun fact, TreeHouse Point was even featured on Treehouse Masters a while back (so you know it’s gotta be good)!

39. Stay in a luxury treehouse retreat in the Emerald Forest

If TreeHouse Point is all booked up but you want a similar option, look no further than the luxury treehouse inside of the Emerald Forest. Built in 2017, this luxurious treehouse has space for up to four people and includes a private hot tub, charming & rustic interiors, and a private outdoor shower. Oh, and did I mention that this one was ALSO featured on Treehouse Masters?!

40. Stay on the shores of Lake Crescent at Lake Crescent Lodge

Lake Crescent is one of the prettiest spots in Olympic National Park, boasting beautiful mountain views, a deep blue alpine lake, and lots of tree-covered shoreline to explore. You can stay right on the water at Lake Crescent Lodge, which offers gorgeous views of the lake & surrounding scenery, water sport equipment for rent, and a spacious dining room (great for hosting a dinner with your guests)!

41. Spend the night in the Mount Pilchuck fire lookout

If you’re up for a bit of a hike, the Mount Pilchuck fire lookout is SUCH a cool place to not only tie the knot + take portraits, but also stay the night. Located at the summit of Mt. Pilchuck, this lookout has the most majestic, panoramic views of Baker, Rainier, and the Olympics, and is a suuuper popular destination for hikers – so if you want to stay the night, make sure to plan in advance.

42. Enjoy a unique camping experience in Winthrop’s Rolling Huts

Winthrop is a unique little western-inspired town in the North Cascades, and is a super cute place to explore on its own. But if you’re looking for a cool place to stay in the area, the Rolling Huts are an awesome option, located between Mazama and Winthrop! The huts were designed to be a modern alternative to camping, each offering gorgeous mountain views, modern amenities, and beautiful interior design + architecture. Highly recommend staying here and spending some time exploring this area of the Cascades!

43. Have a taste of luxury at Posthotel Leavenworth

Got a little bit of a bougier taste? Don’t worry, there are plenty of non-camping, non-outdoorsy options, too 😉 One of the best high-end hotels that gives you access to both upscale amenities and plenty of outdoorsy activities is Posthotel, located in Leavenworth! It’s an adults-only luxury spa resort with cozy rooms, fine dining, and an incredible spa with sauna, plunge pools, and service such as massages, facials, & body treatments. Sounds deliciousss to me.

44. Stay right on the water at Ross Lake Resort

With easy access to multiple vibrant blue, alpine lakes, water sports such as boating and kayaking, and phenomenal views, Ross Lake Resort is a lovely resort right in the heart of the North Cascades. It’s the perfect option for couples who want that backcountry feel, but don’t necessarily want to go full-on camping (although you can camp along the shores of Ross Lake if you want to!). You can rent a fully-furnished cabin, pitch a tent on the lake, or even just visit for the day if you want a fun lake excursion with your guests.

45. Relax at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort

I already mentioned this one above thanks to its relaxing hot springs, but I had to mention it again because the resort itself is just such an amazing option if you want to stay in Port Angeles!

46. Enjoy a cozy waterfront stay in the city at the Edgewater Hotel

Wanna stay in the city instead of the mountains? Seattle had PLENTY of gorg hotels, from modern stays right downtown to luxury waterfront suites. The Edgewater Hotel is one of the most popular options, thanks to its prime location right on the water with jaw-dropping views of Elliott Bay & the Olympics!

Seattle Ideas

And last but not least, let’s get to some Seattle-specific ideas, because this fab city deserves its own section! If you’ll be spending some time in the city, whether you’re by yourselves or with a group of your closest family members & friends, there are ENDLESS fun things to check out. I’ve compiled just a short list of some of the top-rated restaurants, bars, and activities in Seattle that I’d highly recommend adding into your timeline!

Food

47. Enjoy panoramic views of Elliott Bay from the Nest At Thompson

The Nest is an iconic rooftop bar + cocktail lounge in Seattle, boasting panoramic views of Elliott Bay, handccrafted cocktails, delicious flavors, and plates inspired by the PNW. Come here with just your partner for celebratory drinks, or rent out a private space for an intimate dinner with guests!

48. Take in the penthouse views of Lake Union from Canlis

Canlis is one of Seattle’s most famous fine-dining destinations thanks to its breathtaking views of Lake Union, Seattle and the Cascades, as well as its stunning architecture, high-end atmosphere, and mouthwatering dishes created by an immensely talented chef. It’s an incredible place to visit with a group of your loved ones for a rehearsal dinner, or to rent out a room for your private wedding reception.

49. Eat fresh seafood at Pike Place Market

I mean, you can’t visit Seattle without being a total tourist and eating seafood from the iconic Pike Place Market! It’s simply a fact.

50. Dig into delicious dumplings at Din Tai Fung

Dim sum lovers, unite! Din Tai Fung is a world-renowned chain with some of the best soup dumplings + noodles that you will everrrr eat. My mouth is watering just thinking about it🤤

51. Enjoy the best Italian in the city at Spinasse

Feeling a little more European? Check out Spinasse, one of the top-rated Italian eateries in the city! With a focus on rustic Italian dishes and authentic techniques, the homemade pastas + seasonally-inspired dishes at Spinasse are absolutely top-notch. And be sure to hop over to Spinasse’s sibling bar next door, Artusi, for even more delish options!

52. Choose from a variety of high-end Asian-European dishes at Di Fiora

An Asian-European fusion restaurant with gorgeous decor and colorful, refreshing cocktails? Say no more! Whether you’re in the mood for curry, pasta, meat, or just a signature cocktail, Di Fiora is a gorgeous spot to host an intimate dinner with your guests.

Drinks

53. Choose from many tasty brews at Fremont Brewing

In the mood for something a bit more casual? Fremont Brewing is a family-owned craft brewery where you can find refreshing seasonal ales, rotating guest ciders, and sandwiches that’ll fill those all-American cravings. It’s a great place to bring your guests, since there’s plenty of space and it’s kid + dog-friendly!

54. Enjoy a unique “subtropical moon” experience at Carnelian Bay

Now let’s get a little weird with it: Carnelian Bay is one of the most unique, eclectic bars you’ll find in Seattle. Located in Fremont, this sci-fi bar has such a cool and totally one-of-a-kind atmosphere with dim lighting, neon colors, weekly drag brunches, fake tropical plants, and delicious cocktails – it would be such a fun place to bring your friends for a night out!

55. Try a carnival-themed drink at Unicorn

Unicorn is another quirky bar in Seattle, this time with a super fun carnival theme and alllll the yummy, comforting carnival food we all love (but make it elevated)! I’m talking parmesan garlic fries, chicken strips, popcorn, mac & cheese, and even corn dogs, my friends – who wouldn’t want these yummy late-night snacks after a long day celebrating and getting freakin’ married?

56. Grab a drink with under-the-sea vibes at Inside Passage

And one more cool af, themed Seattle bar for ya – Inside Passage! It’s an under-the-sea-themed bar on Pike street with crazy colorful underwater decor (including a giant octopus), bright lights, and a whole menu of delish themed cocktails + light snacks. It’s def one of the most unique bars you’ll ever visit and is perfect for celebrating with a group (as long as you have under 6 people)!

57. Take in the rooftop views from the Mountaineering Club

Looking for rooftop views a little further from downtown? The Mountaineering Club is a super cozy & cute rooftop bar on the top floor of the Graduate, a hotel right in the U District. Make a reservation for either a table inside or a heated spot outside, and sip on yummy outdoor-themed cocktails + roast s’mores over your own little private gas stove while you admire the views of the city around you!

58. Visit the nautical-themed Octopus Bar

Okay, I forgot that we had a whole other nautical-themed bar on the list! The Octopus Bar is a hidden gem in Fremont known for its maritime theme, house cocktails, and its sister kitchen (The Salty Shack) serving up fresh sandwiches and street-style hot dogs. This is an awesome spot to host a bigger group, as you can book space for 50+ people ahead of time!

59. Admire the 360-degree views from the Smith Tower Observatory Bar

Last but def not least on the list of Seattle food + drinks is the Smith Tower Observatory Bar, an iconic rooftop bar & lounge located on the 35th floor of Smith Tower. It’s a speakeasy-style bar with classy cocktails, small bites, and both indoor + outdoor seating areas where you can enjoyo the 360-degree views of the city!

Things to Do

60. Visit Chihuly Garden and Glass

I’m sure you’ve heard of Chihuly Garden before – but if not, it’s a museum in the Seattle Center showcasing these insane glass sculptures of a famous Seattle artist, Dale Chihuly. It’s got to be one of the most iconic spots in Seattle for tourists, with a variety of exhibitions and a stunning space where you can host your private event!

61. Be a tourist and ride to the top of the Space Needle

It’s a fun and easy excursion and is a must for any first-time Seattle visitors!

62. Buy a beautiful bouquet at Pike Place Market

Three of the most touristy things you can do at Pike Place: eat seafood, buy a fresh bouquet, and wait in the neverending line at the first Starbucks. Why not do it all?

63. Go to a concert at Climate Pledge Arena

If you have a free evening and there happens to be a good show going on, get a ticket and head to Climate Pledge Arena for a fun night with your friends!

64. Catch a jazz show at Triple Door

If you’re more of a jazz club couple than a big concert couple, hit up a local bar or small theater such as Triple Door for some live music while you’re out on the town 🎵

Want some more fun Seattle wedding ideas and places to go? Check out my full Seattle Wedding Guide for the top venues, neighborhoods, hotels, & more!

Phewwww that was a LONG one. If you’ve made it to the end, congrats – you’re now an expert on everything that Washington has to offer 😉 Now when it comes time to plan all the official stuff with your Washington wedding or elopement, there’s a lot more that goes into it besides planning your activities, and you shouldn’t have to shoulder it all! I’d be MORE than happy to help you choose your perfect location, build your timeline, find your ideal vendors, and plan the best damn day ever; let’s get in touch and get the ball rollin’ on your dream day!

Dying for more free resources + info before you reach out? I gotchu! Here are a few of my recent faves that I know you’ll love 😉