Washington State, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant cities, is also home to a host of quirky and unusual attractions. From hidden gems in small towns to bizarre sculptures and unique festivals, the Evergreen State offers an offbeat travel experience like no other. Whether you’re a fan of mythology, history, or just love the odd and unusual, these ten towns are must-visits for anyone looking for something out of the ordinary in 2025.
Sequim: Lavender Farms and Mythical Creatures
Nestled along the Dungeness River, Sequim is famous for its sprawling lavender fields, but it also boasts some truly quirky spots. The Dandelion Botanical Company, recently relocated from Seattle, is a must-see for visitors, offering over 400 herbs and ingredients, including mushrooms, scented candles, and tinctures. For something more whimsical, Troll Haven features statues of mythical creatures such as elves, giants, dragons, and, of course, trolls. And, if you’re a fan of John Wayne, be sure to visit the local marina, a gift from the actor’s family.
Anacortes: Geology and Shipwrecks
Located on Fidalgo Island, Anacortes is home to some geological oddities and maritime history. Green Point, a rare piece of the Earth’s mantle exposed on the shore of Rosario Strait, provides a fascinating glimpse into the planet’s interior. Another intriguing site is La Merced Breakwater, a shipwreck-turned-attraction. The 1917 schooner was transformed into a breakwater after it sank in 1966, and now it serves as a distinctive feature along the Anacortes marina.
Dayton: Giant Statues and Historic Buildings
Dayton, with its charming architecture, is famous for its historic buildings, including the state’s oldest active train depot and Columbia County Courthouse. However, it’s the 300-foot-tall Jolly Green Giant statue that draws attention. Created by Green Giant employees in 1993, it’s a towering tribute to the iconic vegetable mascot. Dayton is also home to the Boldman House & Garden, a museum offering a peek into the past with its 1934 Chevrolet and stunning stained-glass windows.
Ocean Shores: Sharks and Irish Pubs
Ocean Shores offers its own brand of quirky attractions, starting with Sharky’s, a shop featuring a giant shark head as its entrance. The store is a treasure trove of ocean- and shark-themed merchandise, perfect for a unique souvenir. Another unusual find is the Galway Bay Irish Restaurant & Pub, a slice of Ireland in Washington with its Celtic music, Gaelic-inspired dishes, and even a gift shop selling Irish goods.
North Bend: A ‘Twin Peaks’ Diner and Haunted Tunnel
Located just outside of Seattle, North Bend is home to several oddball attractions, including Goldmyer Hot Springs. Twede’s Cafe, known to fans of Twin Peaks as the “Double R Diner,” offers a nostalgic dining experience. For those looking for something spooky, the Snoqualmie Tunnel—a two-mile-long tunnel through a mountain—is known as one of the darkest and eeriest hikes you’ll ever do, even in daylight.
Leavenworth: A Bavarian Village and a Nutcracker Wonderland
Leavenworth, located along the Wenatchee River, is a Bavarian-themed village that looks straight out of Europe. With authentic German cuisine, charming inns, and the Leavenworth Sausage Garten, it’s a great spot for a taste of Europe in the Pacific Northwest. The Nutcracker Museum, known locally as the Greater Leavenworth Museum, boasts a collection of over 9,000 nutcrackers from around the world. It’s a family-friendly attraction that even offers nutcracker hunts for kids.
Chelan: Horse-Riding Chiefs and Local History
At the southern end of Chelan Lake, the town of Chelan features a distinctive statue of an Indian chief riding a horse and holding a salmon. This sculpture, located in Beebe Springs Natural Area, is a highlight for visitors. The Chelan Museum is another offbeat stop, offering a range of historical exhibits, including old newspapers, mining tools, and even Native American artifacts.
Coupeville: Spooky Fun and Ancient Artifacts
On Whidbey Island, Coupeville is known for its annual “Haunting of Coupeville” event, where the entire town gets into the Halloween spirit with witches, scarecrows, and headless horsemen. The Island County Historical Museum also offers fascinating exhibits, including the first car on Whidbey Island and 10,000-year-old mammoth remains. For art lovers, the Price Sculpture Forest features more than 20 unique sculptures set against a beautiful natural backdrop.
Friday Harbor: Whale Skeletons and Art Galleries
On San Juan Island, Friday Harbor offers a mix of quirky and artistic attractions. The Whale Museum is a must-see, home to actual whale skeletons and interactive exhibits about marine life. The San Juan Island Museum of Art (SJIMA) is another highlight, featuring some of the finest contemporary art in Washington. Friday Harbor’s waterfront also features a quirky sculpture of Popeye the Sailor and a mini aquarium, providing a fun, relaxed atmosphere for visitors.
Poulsbo: Viking Festivals and Licorice Heaven
Known as “Little Norway on the Fjord,” Poulsbo is steeped in Scandinavian culture, dating back to the late 1800s. The town hosts Viking Fest each May, celebrating all things Nordic. A more unusual attraction is the Licorice Shrine at Poulsbo’s Marina Market, where visitors can find over 500 varieties of licorice from around the world. For a deeper dive into the town’s Scandinavian roots, the Martinson Cabin offers a glimpse into 19th-century fishing life.
Washington State is home to a wealth of offbeat, eccentric, and downright strange attractions, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking something beyond the typical tourist experience. From giant statues to quirky museums and spooky tunnels, these ten towns offer a side of the Pacific Northwest that’s as unique as it is unforgettable.
