If you’re planning a trip to Washington or simply want to explore the state from the comfort of your home, a good travel guide is a must. Washington has much to offer—from the bustling city of Seattle to the serene landscapes of Olympic National Park. In this article, we’ll walk you through the top 10 Washington Travel Guides that will help you navigate and discover the best destinations, hidden gems, and epic adventures that the Evergreen State has to offer. Whether you’re an adventurer, a culture enthusiast, or a nature lover, these books have something for everyone. Let’s dive in!
Best Washington Travel Guides: From Top Destinations to Hidden Gems
Author Bio
Written by an experienced travel writer (John Grishan, Washington Travel Guides writer) and guidebook enthusiast, this article explores the best Washington travel guides available on Amazon. Whether you’re planning a road trip or exploring Washington’s most iconic spots, these books offer expert insights into the state’s unique attractions. Get ready for a journey full of inspiration and adventure.
10. Washington Bucket List: Set Off on 150 Epic Adventures and Discover Incredible Destinations to Live Out Your Dreams While Creating Unforgettable Memories
Author: BeCrePress Travel
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.1 out of 5 stars, 101 ratings)
Category: Washington Travel Guides
Why We Choose It
This book is an ultimate guide for thrill-seekers and dreamers alike. With 150 different adventures to embark on, it’s perfect for anyone wanting to make the most of their time in Washington. From hiking through lush forests to visiting offbeat destinations, it covers all. A must read in the Washington Travel Guides category.
Why You’ll Love It
If you’re looking for an extensive collection of epic trips, this book offers just that. The diverse range of destinations ensures that whether you prefer the mountains, coastlines, or local experiences, you’ll find an adventure that suits your style.
Fun Fact
Did you know that Washington is home to more than 300 state parks? This guide touches on many of those hidden gems, offering unique ways to experience the state beyond the common tourist spots.
9. The Seattle Book of Dates: Adventures, Escapes, and Secret Spots (The Book of Dates)
Author: Eden Dawn
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5 out of 5 stars, 13 ratings)
Category: Washington Travel Guides
Why We Choose It
This guide is perfect for couples or anyone looking to explore Seattle in a more intimate and unique way. It offers a blend of adventures, secret spots, and perfect date ideas, making it a one-of-a-kind travel guide.
Why You’ll Love It
The best part? You’ll experience Seattle from a different angle. It’s not just the iconic landmarks like the Space Needle—this book introduces you to charming, lesser-known places that make the city stand out.
Fun Fact
Seattle is often referred to as the “City of Rain,” but in reality, it only averages about 150 days of rain per year, much less than cities like New York or Portland. This book helps you make the most of those rain-free days!
8. Birds of Washington Field Guide (Bird Identification Guides)
Author: Stan Tekiela
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.8 out of 5 stars, 152 ratings)
Category: Washington Travel Guides
Why We Choose It
For nature lovers and bird watchers, this guide is indispensable. It provides comprehensive identification tips for over 200 species of birds found in Washington.
Why You’ll Love It
The easy-to-use layout and stunning photographs make this book a joy to use. Whether you’re in a forest or a backyard, this guide helps you spot and identify various bird species effortlessly.
Fun Fact
Washington is home to the endangered Northern Spotted Owl. This guide gives you tips on spotting these rare birds in the wild.
7. Secret Seattle (Seattle Walk Report): An Illustrated Guide to the City’s Offbeat and Overlooked History
Author: Susanna Ryan
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.6 out of 5 stars, 71 ratings)
Category: Washington Travel Guides
Why We Choose It
If you’re tired of the typical Seattle tourist spots and want to uncover the city’s hidden treasures, this illustrated guide is the perfect companion. It dives deep into Seattle’s overlooked history and quirky places.
Why You’ll Love It
This book makes exploring fun and educational. Whether it’s an abandoned building or a tucked-away art gallery, it’s full of surprises for those who love the unconventional side of the city.
Fun Fact
Seattle’s underground, which was originally a street-level part of the city, is now a historic site. It’s a fascinating place to explore and is covered in depth in this guide.
6. The Sound of Seattle: 101 Songs that Shaped a City
Author: Eva Walker
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5.0 out of 5 stars, 13 ratings)
Category: Washington Travel Guides
Why We Choose It
For music lovers and anyone interested in Seattle’s rich musical history, this book is a must-read. It explores 101 songs that define the city’s unique sound and culture.
Why You’ll Love It
This guide takes you on a musical journey, offering a deep dive into Seattle’s contributions to the world of music, from grunge to jazz.
Fun Fact
Seattle is the birthplace of grunge music, and legends like Nirvana and Pearl Jam made their mark here. This book highlights the soundtracks of the city’s transformation.
5. Street Trees of Seattle: An Illustrated Walking Guide
Author: Taha Ebrahimi
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5 out of 5 stars, 22 ratings)
Category: Washington Travel Guides
Why We Choose It
This guide offers a unique perspective on Seattle’s urban landscape. Explore the streets from a different angle and discover the diverse array of trees that line the city’s sidewalks.
Why You’ll Love It
It’s a perfect book for tree enthusiasts and those who enjoy a scenic walk. The book’s illustrations and easy-to-follow walking routes make it an engaging and peaceful exploration.
Fun Fact
Seattle’s famous “Tree Canopy” program aims to increase the number of trees planted in the city. This guide helps you spot and appreciate their beauty.
4. Fodor’s Pacific Northwest: Portland, Seattle, Vancouver & the Best of Oregon and Washington (Full-color Travel Guide)
Author: Fodor’s Travel Guides
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.3 out of 5 stars, 29 ratings)
Category: Washington Travel Guides
Why We Choose It
Fodor’s is renowned for offering comprehensive travel insights, and this guide doesn’t disappoint. It includes detailed itineraries, must-see destinations, and hidden gems in both Washington and Oregon.
Why You’ll Love It
Perfect for first-time visitors, this guide offers expert recommendations and easy-to-follow maps. It’s designed to help you explore the region’s best attractions in a seamless way.
Fun Fact
Did you know? Fodor’s has been helping travelers explore the world for over 80 years! Its reputation for detailed, practical advice makes this guide a trusted resource.
3. Lonely Planet Seattle (Travel Guide)
Author: Robert Balkovich
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.6 out of 5 stars, 114 ratings)
Category: Washington Travel Guides
Why We Choose It
Lonely Planet has long been a favorite for travelers, and their Seattle guide is no exception. Offering a comprehensive overview of the city’s best spots, this book is ideal for all types of travelers.
Why You’ll Love It
With its easy-to-navigate format, this guide offers everything from the city’s must-see attractions to off-the-beaten-path finds, making it great for new visitors and repeat travelers alike.
Fun Fact
Seattle’s Pike Place Market, a major landmark in this guide, is one of the oldest public markets in the United States, dating back to 1907!
2. Washington, Evergreen: Land of Natural Wonders
Author: Photo Cascadia
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.8 out of 5 stars, 41 ratings)
Category: Washington Travel Guides
Why We Choose It
This hardcover book captures the breathtaking beauty of Washington’s landscapes, making it a visual masterpiece. It’s perfect for both armchair travelers and nature lovers who want to explore the state’s stunning scenery.
Why You’ll Love It
It’s filled with stunning photography and rich descriptions of Washington’s natural wonders, making it not just a guide, but a beautiful keepsake.
Fun Fact
Washington is home to the only temperate rainforests in the U.S., which are featured prominently in this book.
1. Moon Olympic Peninsula: With Olympic National Park: Coastal Getaways, Rainforests & Waterfalls, Hiking & Camping
Author: Jeff Burlingame
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.6 out of 5 stars, 19 ratings)
Category: Washington Travel Guides
Why We Choose It
Moon Guides are known for providing in-depth and practical travel insights, and this book offers the best of the Olympic Peninsula. With comprehensive information on hiking, camping, and sightseeing, it’s the perfect guide for outdoor adventurers. The king in the Washington Travel Guides category.
Why You’ll Love It
Packed with detailed itineraries, insider tips, and stunning images, this book makes exploring Olympic National Park and its surroundings a breeze.
Fun Fact
Olympic National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its incredible biodiversity and the only temperate rainforest in the U.S. You’ll find all the best spots in this guide.
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