Puget Sound
A world-class city, epic wilderness and endless outdoor adventure await in the stunning Puget Sound. This diverse region combines the state’s largest city, Seattle, with the mountains of the Kitsap Peninsula and spectacular islands spread across the sound. Start by exploring the urban center then head out on a boat to visit different corners of the region.
Puget Sound is the name of the estuary that filters inland from the Pacific Ocean via the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Explore its 2,500 miles (4,000 kilometers) of coastline, which was formed by glaciers and first populated by indigenous groups such as the Nooksack and Samish nations.
Vibrant, lively and multicultural, the Puget Sound’s most famous city, Seattle, promises days of entertainment in its museums and shops. Ascend the Space Needle for unrivalled views over town before visiting the city’s various art galleries and parks at ground level.
Further south, the city of Tacoma offers insight into pioneer history. Learn about the lives of traders in Fort Nisqually and find out about naval traditions in the Working Waterfront Maritime Museum.
Ride boats between the islands, looking out from the decks of the ferry for whales as you skim over the waves. Trendy Vashon Island combines scenic beaches and cultural attractions such as a galleries and theaters. Head to Bainbridge Island to visit vineyards and picturesque harbor towns.
Hike through the parks of the Kitsap peninsula. West Port Madison Nature Preserve and Penrose Point State Park are just two of the many places to find walking trails and wildlife.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is one of the west coast’s major transport hubs. Fly here from cities around the U.S. and beyond, then use the network of boats to explore the rest of Puget Sound.
Visit Puget Sound in spring and fall for mild weather and lower room rates than in the peak sunny season between June and August. Dodge the rains of winter by heading to the mountains to ski down snowcapped peaks.