Getting Around Washington

Part of our Washington guide.

Eleven places and guides from our Washington coverage, gathered into one page. Each section answers a common traveler question or highlights a local landmark, with practical details you can use.

How Long Is The Ferry Ride From Port Defiance To Vashon Island?

The ferry from Point Defiance (Tacoma) to Vashon Island takes about 15 minutes. This short, scenic crossing runs frequently and drops you at the island's northern end, near the village of Vashon. Once ashore, you can explore the island's farms, beaches, and small-town charm. The ferry accepts vehicles, so you can bring a car or bike for easier exploring. Check the current schedule before you go, as sailing times vary by season and day of the week.

Dulles Airport - Everything You Need to Know

Knowing a bit about an airport's history can make the experience more pleasant. Washington Dulles International (IAD), located in Virginia, is the busiest of the region's three major airports for international flights. The others are Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall (BWI). Dulles is known for its distinctive swooping roof, designed by Eero Saarinen, and for its mobile lounges that carry passengers between the terminal and gates. The airport hosts art exhibits and offers tours of its mid-century architecture. If you have a layover, you can visit the Udvar-Hazy Center nearby, part of the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum.

How Long Is The Ferry Ride From Port Orchard To West Seattle

The ferry from Port Orchard to West Seattle takes about 35 minutes. This route crosses the Puget Sound and offers views of the Olympic Mountains and the Seattle skyline. The ferry lands at the West Seattle terminal, about a 15-minute drive from downtown Seattle. It runs regularly throughout the day, with more frequent sailings during commute hours. You can bring a vehicle, but walk-on passengers and cyclists are also welcome. The boat has indoor seating and an outdoor deck. If you're driving, arrive early in summer or on weekends, as the ferry can fill up quickly.

What Is The Longest Ferry Ride To Whidbey Island

The longest ferry ride to Whidbey Island is the route from Port Townsend to Coupeville, which takes about 35 minutes. This crossing connects the Olympic Peninsula to Whidbey's northern end. The more commonly used route, from Mukilteo to Clinton, takes about 20 minutes and links the island to the Seattle-Everett area. Both ferries accept vehicles and walk-on passengers. The Port Townsend–Coupeville route is especially scenic, with views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Cascade Mountains. For a day trip, the Mukilteo–Clinton ferry is usually the most convenient, with frequent departures. The Port Townsend–Coupeville ferry offers a quieter, more relaxed crossing.

Wenatchee's Vibrant Pybus Public Market Awaits

Pybus Public Market in Wenatchee is an indoor market with local foods, shops, and events. It is open daily, with varying hours. You'll find produce stands, bakeries, a butcher, and a fishmonger, along with several eateries. The market hosts live music and community gatherings on weekends. Kids will enjoy the interactive displays, and adults can relax with a coffee while browsing. It's a good spot to pick up picnic supplies or a souvenir. The building, originally a fruit warehouse, has been renovated into a bright, open space. Free parking is available on site.

How Long Is The Ferry Ride From Sidney, BC, To Anacortes?

The ferry from Sidney, BC, to Anacortes, Washington, takes about 3 hours. This international route crosses the Salish Sea and passes through the San Juan Islands. The ferry is operated by the Washington State Ferries system and runs seasonally, typically from May through September. It departs from both Sidney and Anacortes once a day during the summer. You can bring a vehicle, but reservations are strongly recommended. Walk-on passengers are also welcome, and the boat has a cafeteria and a viewing deck. Border crossing is required, so bring a passport or other approved ID. Check the schedule and fees on the Washington State Ferries website before you go.

How Long Is The Lummi Island Ferry Ride

The Lummi Island ferry takes about 10 minutes to cross from Gooseberry Point to Lummi Island. This small ferry is part of the Whatcom County road system and runs frequently, about every 30 minutes during peak times. It carries vehicles, bicycles, and foot passengers. The fare is collected on the Lummi Island side when you leave, so you pay on the return trip. The ferry is a simple, no-frills ride with views of the surrounding islands. Once on the island, you can visit the beach, hike at Lummi Island's scenic preserves, or grab lunch at the island's general store. The ferry runs year-round, though schedules may change on holidays.

Forgotten Cable Cars Of St. Louis: Sky-High Transportation

St. Louis once had a network of cable cars that climbed its steepest hills. From the late 1800s to the early 1900s, these cars connected downtown neighborhoods to higher ground, crossing bridges and running along main streets. The system was phased out as electric streetcars and automobiles took over. Today, a few remnants remain, including old tracks embedded in some streets. Local history groups sometimes offer walking tours that point out these traces. It's a fascinating piece of St. Louis's past for anyone interested in urban history.

Soar Through Time At The Museum Of Flight

The Museum of Flight in Seattle lets you walk through a real Boeing 747 and step inside a Space Shuttle Trainer. It's one of the largest air and space museums in the world. You can see early biplanes, military jets, and modern commercial airliners. The museum also has a mock control tower and a flight simulator. Kids can try on pilot gear and climb into cockpit replicas. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours on the first Thursday of each month. Admission is free for children under 4, and there's a discount for seniors and military. Plan at least half a day to see everything.

Chuckanut Drive

Chuckanut Drive is a scenic byway that hugs the coast south of Bellingham. It's a winding road with views of the Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. Along the way, you'll find pullouts for photos, small beaches, and trailheads for hiking. The road is popular with motorcyclists and cyclists, so drive carefully. There are a few restaurants and a historic oyster farm along the route. The drive takes about 30 minutes without stops, but plan for an hour or more if you want to explore. It's a great day trip from Bellingham or Mount Vernon.

How Far Is The Guest House Bellingham To La Quinta Bellingham?

The Guest House Bellingham and La Quinta Bellingham are about 2 miles apart. That's a 5-minute drive, or about 40 minutes on foot. Both are located near the I-5 freeway. The Guest House is closer to downtown, while La Quinta is near the Bellis Fair Mall. The Guest House offers more of a bed-and-breakfast feel, while La Quinta has a pool and a complimentary breakfast. Parking is free at both properties. If you're flying into Bellingham International Airport, it's about 20 minutes from either hotel.