4 Traffic-free Getaways in Washington
Need to get away? Visit these Washington towns for peace, quiet, and plenty of fun.
If you’re dreaming of a lazy summer day without a traffic jam in sight, plan to visit one of these small towns that are within driving distance of Seattle. You’ll find charm and calm with tree-lined streets and gorgeous views. But if things get a little too quiet, check out the family-friendly events, outdoor activities, shopping, and food adventures each has to offer.
Most are easy to get to and are within a few hours’ drive of Seattle. If you are planning a group excursion or would rather not drive, Seattle’s Shuttle Express has options for charter buses and car/van service, too.
Zillah, WA
Located in the Yakima Valley, Zillah is the home of the historic Teapot Dome Gas Station—a perfect photo opp when tooling along First Avenue in this quiet, rural town. The refurbished teapot-shaped gas station was created in 1922 as a visual reminder of the Teapot Dome oil scandal that erupted during the Harding administration in the 1920s. It’s located just off I-82 in a well-maintained city park next to a firefighters’ memorial. After you’ve visited Zillah, explore the nearby Rattlesnake Hills area, which is peppered with outstanding wineries and scenery.
- Things to do: Visit Teapot Dome Gas Station historical landmark; taste wine and tour cellars at the many wineries near town, including the popular Two Mountain Winery, Dineen Winery, and Cultura Winery.
- How to get there: From Seattle, Zillah is a two-and-a-half-hour drive via I-90E and I-82E. Don’t feel like driving? Chartered coach service is a great option for groups of up to 55 passengers, with restroom on board the larger coaches and roomy seats. Settle in and enjoy the trip, the wine, and the peace and quiet.
Langley, WA
The quaint little town of Langley on Whidbey Island is a 20-minute ferry trip away, featuring unique and charming bookstores, antiques shops, and clothing boutiques. This small town of just under 1,100 residents offers beautiful views along with its calm vibe.
- Things to do: Take in the many cultural and art events, such as the Island Shakespeare Festival, the various performing arts, and the art walks
- How to get there: Just an hour north of Seattle, it’s an easy 15- to 20-minute ferry ride to Whidbey Island via the Mukilteo Ferry Terminal.
Packwood, WA
Delve into the heart of volcano country with a trip to Packwood, a remote little town surrounded by forest and just minutes away from Mount Rainier National Park to the north, with Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument to the south. Packwood is nature’s playground, offering many activities for the outdoor enthusiast for every season—the perfect setting where you can relax and refresh.
- Things to do: Visit the national parks nearby and enjoy hiking, fishing, wildlife watching, skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling and camping; check out the White Pass Country Historical Museum and see the town’s historical collection of mining and agriculture artifacts. Destination Packwood gives a run-down on the many activities for visitors.
- How to get there: Packwood is a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Seattle via WA 410E. Don’t feel like driving? This road trip is ideal for a day trip for a group or family outing, so charter a coach to fit your group instead of sitting at the wheel. An overnight stay with our charter bus is a great option, too, giving you more time to explore the national parks nearby.
Winthrop, WA
Visit Winthrop and feel as if you’ve time-traveled back to the Old West. Winthrop is located on the North Cascades Scenic Byway in the spectacular Methow Valley, and while at times can get a bit busy during peak season, it’s usually a laid-back town where you can experience more than 120 miles of cross-country ski trails and hiking trails. Not to mention, festivals and cultural events abound here throughout the year.
- Things to do: Hike, bike, and cross-country ski, depending on the season; visit western-themed storefronts, art galleries, and restaurants; check out the Shafer Historical Museum for a peek into the town’s history; don’t miss the R&B Festival in July.
- How to get there: Winthrop is about a four-hour drive from Seattle, with several route options, all of which lead to Hwy 20E that takes you into town. Charter a bus for an executive retreat or a group excursion, overnight or for the weekend.
Charter Bus to Anywhere
Shuttle Express offers trusted, safe, and reliable group transportation for business or pleasure, groups large and small. We maintain an expansive fleet of mini and motor coach buses, private vans, sedans, and SUVs, perfect for day trips, overnight excursions, corporate events, family celebrations, and special occasions.
To plan your next charter to the traffic-free spots and beyond, contact our team at sales@shuttleexpress.net or call 425-981-7096.