The state of Washington offers a diverse array of attractions and sites ranging from its impressive mountain ranges and outdoor opportunities to its thriving urban centres like Seattle and Olympia. Nestled in the north-west corner of the United States and sharing a border with Canada, Washington offers an incredible wealth of exciting attractions for people of all ages.

The mountains of Washington are one of its most famous attractions and rank amongst the finest in the country. The beautiful lakes and trees in the North Cascades National Park make for a fantastic outdoor holiday, or visitors can ride out to the San Juan Islands and see some of the wildlife that makes their home there including orca whales and bald eagles. Alternatively, those looking to experience some of the cultural life in Washington should consider a visit to the state capital Olympia with its heritage on show in its National Historic District. Seattle, nicknamed “The Emerald City” for its lush parks and gardens, is another top destination for those looking to enjoy everything one of the United States most modern and vibrant cities has to offer.

Washington is home to a number of airports that offer passage into the state, the busiest of which is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport just outside of Seattle. Alternatively, Portland International Airport just a kilometre outside of Washington in the state of Oregon and is ideal for those looking to travel in the south-west region of Washington. Amtrak trains also run through the state including routes from Chicago, Los Angeles, Portland and Vancouver. Some of these train routes, particularly the Coast Starlight route from Los Angeles, are famed for passing through some of the most spectacular natural scenery and make for an incredibly rewarding journey.

The state of Washington became an official part of the Union in 1889 and is the 13th most populous state in the United States. The state initially became a leading centre of industries including lumber and agriculture but nowadays boasts many leading modern cities at the forefront of technology including Seattle. The climate in Washington can vary depending on the area, as the east of the state is predominantly a semi-arid climate as opposed to the oceanic climate of the west.