King County Travel Guide

Explore the best of King County, Washington with our comprehensive travel guide featuring the top places to visit, local culture and customs, transportation options, and more.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to King County, Washington

King County is a beautiful county located in Puget Sound, in Washington (state), in the Pacific Northwest of the United States of America. This county is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and rich history. In this travel guide, we have put together all the information you need to make the most of your trip to King County.

Introduction to King County

King County is the most populous county in Washington State, with Seattle, its largest city, as the county seat. The county is home to more than 2 million people and covers an area of 2,307 square miles. It’s also the 13th most populous county in the United States. King County is situated between the Cascade Range to the east and the Olympic Mountains to the west and boasts an endless list of outdoor recreation opportunities, beautiful parks, and scenic views.

List of Places to Visit in King County

King County offers plenty of attractions and activities for all types of travelers. Here is a list of some of the must-visit places in the county:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are interested in history and culture, King County will not disappoint. Some of the top cultural attractions in the county are:

  • Museum of Pop Culture: Located in the heart of Seattle Center, the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is a must-visit attraction for music and pop culture enthusiasts. The museum features exhibits on music, sci-fi, and popular culture.
  • Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience: This museum in the Chinatown-International District of Seattle showcases the culture, art, and history of Asian Americans in the Pacific Northwest.
  • Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park: The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Seattle commemorates the Alaska-Yukon gold rush, which started in 1896, and tells the story of the people who participated in it.

Natural Attractions of King County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

King County is home to some of the country’s most beautiful parks and natural landscapes. Here are the top outdoor attractions in the county:

  • Mount Rainier National Park: Located southeast of Seattle, Mount Rainier National Park boasts some of the most beautiful views in the Pacific Northwest. You can hike through the park’s trails, ski in winter, or enjoy the wildflowers in the spring.
  • Snoqualmie Falls: Snoqualmie Falls is a breathtaking waterfall located in Snoqualmie, Washington, about 30 miles east of Seattle. You can view the waterfall from the viewing area and hike the trails around the falls.
  • Alki Beach: Alki Beach is a beautiful sandy beach in West Seattle with stunning views of the Seattle skyline. You can walk the beach, play volleyball, or enjoy the sunsets.

Hiking/Biking Routes of King County

King County is a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails that provide breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains and the Puget Sound. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes:

  • Mount Si Trail: This trail is located in North Bend and is known for its challenging terrain and stunning views of Mount Rainier and the Snoqualmie Valley.
  • Rattlesnake Ledge Trail: The hike to Rattlesnake Ledge in North Bend is one of the most popular hikes in the county. The trail is 4 miles roundtrip and offers panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains, Mount Si, and the Snoqualmie River Valley.
  • Burke-Gilman Trail: This 18-mile paved trail runs from Bothell to Seattle and offers great views of Lake Washington.

Best Things to Do in King County: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to choose from in King County. Here are some of the top things to do:

  • Seattle Space Needle: The Seattle Space Needle is an iconic landmark with an observation tower offering 360-degree views of Seattle and the Puget Sound.
  • Pike Place Market: Pike Place Market is a world-famous market in Seattle where you can purchase fresh produce, seafood, and other local products.
  • Seattle Underground Tour: This tour takes you underground to explore the hidden parts of Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square.

Week-Long Itinerary for King County

To make the most of your visit to King County, we have put together a one-week itinerary that includes some of the top attractions and activities in the county:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Museum of Pop Culture and the Space Needle
Day 2 Hike Rattlesnake Ledge Trail and explore Snoqualmie Falls
Day 3 Visit the Boeing Factory and the Future of Flight Aviation Center
Day 4 Explore the Pike Place Market and the Seattle Aquarium
Day 5 Visit the Mount Rainier National Park and hike the Wonderland Trail
Day 6 Take a ferry to Bainbridge Island and explore the island
Day 7 Visit the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience and the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

Food and Drink Scene of King County

King County has a thriving food and drink scene, with plenty of local restaurants, breweries, and wineries. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Blackened Salmon: Blackened salmon is a Pacific Northwest specialty featuring locally sourced salmon coated in a blend of spices and herbs and cooked to perfection.
  • Seattle-style hot dogs: Seattle-style hot dogs are all-beef hot dogs served with cream cheese, grilled onions, and mustard.
  • Dungeness Crab: Dungeness Crab is a local specialty and a must-try seafood dish in King County.

Local Beverages

  • Coffee: Seattle is famous for its coffee culture, and you can find many local cafes and coffee roasters throughout the county.
  • Beer: King County has more than 200 breweries, including big names like Elysian Brewing and smaller, local breweries like Ghostfish Brewing.
  • Wine: There are more than a dozen wineries in the county, producing award-winning wines.

Where to Stay in King County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

King County offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the top places to stay in the county:

  • The Edgewater Hotel: The Edgewater Hotel is a luxury hotel located on Seattle’s waterfront with beautiful views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains.
  • Green Tortoise Hostel Seattle: Green Tortoise Hostel Seattle is a popular hostel located in the heart of Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square.
  • Kirkland Motel: Kirkland Motel is a budget-friendly motel located in Kirkland with easy access to Seattle and other parts of the county.

What to Buy in King County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

King County offers plenty of souvenirs and locally made products to bring home. Here are some of the must-buy items:

  • Seattle Rain Gear: Seattle is notorious for its rainy weather, making rain gear a practical and unique souvenir.
  • Glass Art: Seattle is home to many glass artists, and you can find beautiful glass art pieces in many local shops.
  • Local Wine and Beer: King County has a thriving wine and beer scene, and you can bring home a bottle of locally made wine or beer as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of King County

King County has a unique culture that is influenced by its diverse population and stunning natural landscape. Here are some of the local customs and traditions to keep in mind:

  • Respect the Environment: King County takes pride in its natural beauty, and residents and visitors alike are expected to respect the environment by avoiding littering and practicing sustainability.
  • Tipping: Tipping is expected in most restaurants and bars in King County.
  • Seattle Freeze: Seattle locals are known for their reserved nature, so don’t be surprised if it takes some time to break the ice when meeting new people.

Best Time to Visit King County

The best time to visit King County is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the parks and outdoor attractions are in full swing. However, the fall and spring months also have mild weather, and the fall foliage and spring wildflowers make for a beautiful backdrop. Winter months can be rainy, but there are plenty of indoor attractions to explore.

Do’s and Don’ts of King County

To make the most of your trip to King County, here are some of the do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Hike or bike the county’s trails: King County has some of the most beautiful hiking and biking trails in the Pacific Northwest.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages: King County has a thriving food and drink scene, and you should not miss out on trying the local specialties.
  • Respect the locals and their customs: King County has a diverse population, and it’s essential to respect their customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter: King County is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, and littering is not acceptable.
  • Neglect to plan for the weather: The weather in King County can be unpredictable, so make sure to bring appropriate clothing and gear for the season.
  • Be loud or disruptive: Seattle locals are known for their reserved nature, and being loud or disruptive in public places is not acceptable.

Safety and Health

King County is a safe destination for travelers, but it’s essential to take some precautions. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind during your trip:

Safety in King County

  • Be aware of your surroundings: As with any urban area, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and avoid areas that are known for high crime rates.
  • Pay attention to traffic: In Seattle, there are many one-way streets, so be careful and follow traffic laws.
  • Be prepared for natural disasters: King County is prone to earthquakes, so it’s essential to know the emergency protocols in the area and always be prepared.

Health in King County

  • Stay hydrated: The weather in King County can be dry, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Protect yourself from the sun: Even on cloudy days, UV rays can be harmful, so it’s important to wear sunscreen and protective clothing.
  • Be aware of allergies: King County has a lot of natural vegetation, and those with allergies should take appropriate precautions.

Getting to King County: Transportation Options and Logistics

King County is well-connected by air, road, and sea. Here are the top transportation options to help you plan your trip:

Airports Near King County

  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport: This is the largest airport in the region and is located about 20 miles south of Seattle.

Bus Stations Near King County

  • Greyhound: Greyhound operates a bus station in Seattle, with regular bus services to many destinations in the region.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: Amtrak operates a train station in Seattle, with routes to many destinations in the United States.
  • Ferry: Washington State Ferry provides ferry services to various destinations, including Bainbridge Island and Bremerton.

How to Get Around in King County

King County offers several options for getting around, including:

  • Metro Transit: King County Metro Transit offers bus services throughout the county, making it easy to get around by public transportation.
  • Rideshare Services: Lyft and Uber operate in the county, providing convenient and affordable transportation options.
  • Car Rentals: Car rentals are available at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and throughout the county.

Where to Go Next from King County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

King County is a great starting point for exploring the Pacific Northwest. Here are some of the top nearby destinations and excursions:

  • San Juan Islands: The San Juan Islands are a group of islands in Puget Sound known for their wildlife and outdoor recreation opportunities.
  • Mount St. Helens: Mount St. Helens is an active volcano located in southwestern Washington and is known for its beautiful views and hiking trails.
  • Olympic National Park: Olympic National Park is located on the Olympic Peninsula and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, lush rainforests, and snow-covered peaks.

Conclusion

King County is a beautiful county with endless attractions and activities for visitors. From hiking and biking trails to cultural attractions and local cuisine, King County has something for everyone. We hope this travel guide has helped you plan your trip and make the most of your visit to this stunning county in the Pacific Northwest.

Ships on Puget Sound with the Cascade Mountains Ships on Puget Sound with the Cascade Mountains


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