Discover Breathtaking Unique Places To Stay In Washington State

Washington State is a land of diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to lush rainforests, and snow-capped mountains to rolling vineyards. While many visitors opt for traditional hotels or vacation rentals, those seeking a truly memorable experience should consider the array of unique places to stay in Washington State. This guide will take you on a journey through some of the most extraordinary accommodations the Evergreen State has to offer, ensuring your next visit is nothing short of magical.

Treehouse Retreats: Sleep Among the Giants

Washington’s dense forests provide the perfect backdrop for treehouse accommodations that blend seamlessly with nature. These elevated abodes offer a childhood dream come true for adults and children alike.

TreeHouse Point, Issaquah Located just 30 minutes from Seattle, TreeHouse Point is a fairytale escape nestled in the forest. Each treehouse is uniquely designed, featuring cozy interiors, large windows, and rustic charm. Guests can enjoy guided nature walks, yoga classes, and the soothing sounds of the nearby Raging River.

Treehouse Place at Deer Ridge, Snohomish This luxurious treehouse resort offers panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains. Each treehouse is equipped with modern amenities, including kitchenettes and private bathrooms. The property also features hiking trails and a communal fire pit for evening gatherings.

Cedar Creek Treehouse, Mount Rainier For the more adventurous, Cedar Creek Treehouse offers a truly unique experience. Perched 50 feet high in a 200-year-old Western Red Cedar tree, this accommodation includes a observation tower with stunning views of Mount Rainier.

Glamping: Nature Meets Luxury

For those who love the idea of camping but prefer the comforts of home, glamping offers the perfect compromise. Washington State boasts several glamping sites that provide an immersive outdoor experience without sacrificing luxury.

Lakedale Resort, San Juan Island Lakedale Resort offers canvas cottages and glamping tents equipped with plush bedding, private decks, and fire pits. Guests can enjoy activities such as kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching on the resort’s three spring water lakes.

LOGE Camps, various locations With locations in Westport, Bend, and Leavenworth, LOGE Camps combine the best of outdoor adventure with comfortable accommodations. Their glamping tents feature memory foam mattresses, electricity, and access to communal kitchens and lounges.

Rolling Huts, Methow Valley These modern, wheeled huts in the Methow Valley offer a unique take on glamping. Designed by renowned architect Tom Kundig, each hut features a sleeping platform, wood-burning fireplace, and large windows showcasing the surrounding meadow and mountains.

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Lighthouse Stays: Coastal Beacons of History

Washington’s rugged coastline is dotted with historic lighthouses, some of which offer overnight accommodations for a truly unique maritime experience.

New Dungeness Lighthouse, Sequim Located at the tip of the Dungeness Spit, this lighthouse offers week-long keeper programs. Visitors can stay in the keeper’s quarters, climb the tower, and experience life as a lighthouse keeper while enjoying breathtaking views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

North Head Lighthouse, Ilwaco While you can’t stay in the lighthouse itself, the nearby keepers’ residences have been converted into vacation rentals. These historic homes offer a glimpse into the past while providing modern comforts and easy access to Cape Disappointment State Park.

Cave Dwellings: Underground Wonders

For a truly otherworldly experience, consider staying in one of Washington’s unique cave accommodations.

Sasquatch Cave, Concrete This hand-carved cave in the Cascade Mountains offers a primitive yet unforgettable stay. The cave features basic amenities and is accessible via a short hike, providing a true back-to-nature experience.

The Shire, Trout Lake While not a true cave, this Hobbit-inspired underground dwelling near Mount Adams offers a whimsical escape. The earth-sheltered home features round doors, curved walls, and a cozy interior that feels straight out of Middle-earth.

Floating Homes: Life on the Water

Experience Seattle’s famous houseboat community by staying in one of the city’s many floating homes.

Lake Union Floating Home, Seattle Rent a authentic floating home on Lake Union for a quintessential Seattle experience. Many of these homes offer stunning views of the city skyline, Space Needle, and passing seaplanes.

The Boat House, Bainbridge Island This converted boathouse on Eagle Harbor provides a unique waterfront stay just a short ferry ride from Seattle. The nautical-themed interior and private deck offer a peaceful retreat with easy access to Bainbridge Island’s charming downtown.

Historic Hotels: A Step Back in Time

Washington State is home to several beautifully preserved historic hotels that offer a glimpse into the region’s past while providing modern comforts.

Lake Crescent Lodge, Olympic National Park Built in 1915, this rustic lodge on the shores of Lake Crescent offers a classic national park experience. The historic Roosevelt Fireplace Cabins provide a cozy retreat after a day of exploring the surrounding old-growth forests and crystal-clear waters.

The Davenport Hotel, Spokane This opulent hotel in downtown Spokane opened in 1914 and has hosted numerous celebrities and dignitaries over the years. The beautifully restored interiors feature ornate woodwork, crystal chandeliers, and luxurious accommodations.

Port Townsend’s Palace Hotel Originally built in 1889 as a brothel, this Victorian-era hotel in the heart of Port Townsend’s historic district offers uniquely decorated rooms named after the ladies who once worked there. The hotel’s rich history and charming details make for a memorable stay.

Yurts: Circular Serenity

Yurts, traditional Mongolian-style tents, have become increasingly popular in Washington State parks and private resorts, offering a unique blend of camping and comfort.

Moran State Park, Orcas Island The yurts at Moran State Park provide a cozy base for exploring the natural beauty of Orcas Island. Each yurt is furnished with bunk beds, a futon, and a small table, with nearby restrooms and showers.

Kayak Point County Park, Stanwood Located on the shores of Port Susan, these yurts offer beautiful water views and easy access to beach activities. The park also features hiking trails, fishing, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Farm Stays: Agricultural Immersion

Experience life on a working farm by staying at one of Washington’s many farm stay accommodations.

Hoehn Bend Farm, Sedro-Woolley This 100-acre organic farm in the Skagit Valley offers cozy cottages and the opportunity to participate in farm activities. Guests can help with chores, learn about sustainable agriculture, and enjoy farm-fresh meals.

Harmony Fields, Bow This sheep farm and creamery in the Skagit Valley offers a renovated farmhouse for overnight stays. Visitors can tour the farm, meet the animals, and sample artisanal cheeses made on-site.

Fire Lookout Towers: Mountain-Top Solitude

For breathtaking views and a unique forest service experience, consider staying in one of Washington’s restored fire lookout towers.

Quartz Mountain Lookout, Colville National Forest Perched atop Quartz Mountain at 5,129 feet, this lookout offers 360-degree views of the surrounding wilderness. The basic accommodations include a wood stove, cots, and a table, allowing visitors to experience life as a forest fire spotter.

Evergreen Mountain Lookout, Wild Sky Wilderness This historic lookout, built in 1935, sits at an elevation of 5,587 feet and offers stunning views of the Cascade Range. The lookout is accessible via a challenging hike and provides a true backcountry experience.

Eco-Friendly Retreats: Sustainable Stays

For environmentally conscious travelers, Washington offers several unique eco-friendly accommodations that minimize environmental impact while maximizing comfort.

Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort, Leavenworth This sustainable resort in the Cascade Mountains features beautifully designed rooms, farm-to-table dining, and a commitment to environmental stewardship. The resort’s buildings are strategically placed to preserve the natural landscape and wildlife corridors.

TreeHouse at Oz Farm, San Juan Island This off-grid treehouse on an organic farm offers a sustainable stay powered by solar energy. The treehouse features a composting toilet, rainwater collection system, and stunning views of the surrounding forest and farmland.

Converted Spaces: Reimagined Accommodations

Washington is home to several unique accommodations that have been creatively repurposed from their original functions.

School House Brewery B&B, Winthrop This former schoolhouse in the Methow Valley has been transformed into a charming bed and breakfast with an on-site brewery. Each room is uniquely decorated, and guests can enjoy craft beers in the old gymnasium.

Silo Barn, Walla Walla This converted grain silo in the heart of Washington wine country offers a one-of-a-kind stay. The circular living space features modern amenities and is surrounded by vineyards, providing easy access to local wineries.

Hot Springs Retreats: Natural Relaxation

Washington’s volcanic landscape has blessed the state with several natural hot springs, some of which offer overnight accommodations for a truly relaxing getaway.

Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, Olympic National Park This rustic resort features cabins and hot spring pools nestled in the heart of the Olympic rainforest. Guests can soak in mineral-rich waters while surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of Sol Duc Falls.

Goldmyer Hot Springs, North Bend For a more secluded experience, Goldmyer Hot Springs offers a rustic campground near the natural hot springs. The site is limited to 20 visitors per day and requires a challenging hike to access, ensuring a peaceful and intimate experience.

Island Escapes: Secluded Paradise

Washington’s San Juan Islands and other coastal retreats offer unique accommodations for those seeking an island getaway.

Doe Bay Resort & Retreat, Orcas Island This eclectic resort offers a variety of accommodations, from yurts and cabins to a converted Airstream trailer. The property features soaking tubs overlooking the Salish Sea, a yoga studio, and an organic garden that supplies the on-site cafe.

Willapa Bay Tides, Long Beach Peninsula This unique vacation rental sits on stilts in Willapa Bay, accessible only by boat or a long walk at low tide. The secluded cabin offers panoramic views of the bay and a chance to experience the rhythm of the tides up close.

Seasonal Spectacles: Accommodations with Time-Limited Appeal

Washington State’s diverse landscape offers unique seasonal experiences, and some accommodations are designed to showcase these fleeting wonders.

Winter Wonders: Ice Caves and Igloos During the colder months, the Mount Baker area transforms into a winter wonderland. The Mount Baker Ski Area offers a unique “Igloo Village” experience where guests can spend the night in custom-built snow igloos. Each igloo is equipped with sleeping bags rated for extreme cold and insulated sleeping pads. The experience includes a guided snowshoe tour and a lesson in igloo building.

For a more natural ice experience, guided overnight trips to the Big Four Ice Caves in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest are available for experienced winter campers. While camping isn’t allowed inside the caves for safety reasons, nearby camping spots offer views of these spectacular formations.

Spring Cherry Blossoms: Yakima Valley Orchard Stays The Yakima Valley bursts into pink and white blooms during spring, and several orchards offer unique accommodation options. The Cherry Wood Bed Breakfast and Barn in Zillah provides teepees situated among the cherry trees. Each teepee is furnished with real beds, private bathrooms, and decks perfect for viewing the blossoms. The property also offers horseback rides through the blooming orchards.

Summer Lavender: Sequim Farm Retreats Sequim, known as the “Lavender Capital of North America,” hosts its famous Lavender Festival in July. Purple Haze Lavender Farm offers a charming farmhouse rental surrounded by fragrant lavender fields. Guests can participate in lavender harvesting, distillation demonstrations, and enjoy lavender-infused meals.

Fall Foliage: Columbia River Gorge Treehouses The Columbia River Gorge explodes with color in autumn, and the Skamania Lodge Adventure Park offers treehouse accommodations with prime foliage viewing. These modern treehouses feature floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor decks with fire pits, and are surrounded by maples, oaks, and firs in their full autumn glory.

Pet-Friendly Unique Stays

For many travelers, a vacation isn’t complete without their four-legged companions. Washington offers several unusual accommodations that welcome pets.

Yurt Adventures with Dogs Several Washington State Parks offer pet-friendly yurts. Cape Disappointment State Park, located at the mouth of the Columbia River, has yurts that welcome dogs for a small additional fee. The park offers miles of pet-friendly trails and beaches for you and your furry friend to explore.

Lighthouse Living with Feline Friends The Keepers’ Quarters at Point No Point Lighthouse in Hansville welcomes both dogs and cats. This historic home, built in 1879, offers panoramic views of Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains. Pets will love watching the abundant wildlife from the windows or exploring the adjacent beach.

Treetop Retreats for All Treehouse Point in Fall City, previously mentioned in our main article, offers pet-friendly options. The Trillium treehouse welcomes dogs, allowing your canine companion to join you in this elevated forest retreat.

Accessible Unique Accommodations

Adventure and unique experiences should be available to everyone, regardless of physical abilities. These accommodations offer extraordinary stays with accessibility in mind.

Glamping Without Barriers Pampered Wilderness at Millersylvania State Park offers ADA-compliant luxury canvas cottages. These spacious tents feature wide entrances, accessible bathrooms, and smooth pathways. The “Shabby Chic” cottage is particularly well-suited for wheelchair users, with a large deck and ramp access.

Inclusive Treehouses While treehouses might seem inherently inaccessible, some creative designs prove otherwise. The Treehouse Place at Deer Ridge in Snohomish has created the “Eagle’s Nest,” a ground-level treehouse built around a living tree. It features wide doorways, a roll-in shower, and a spacious deck, all designed with wheelchair users in mind.

Sensory-Friendly Farm Stays Firwood Farm in Redmond offers a unique sensory-friendly farm stay experience. The property has a dedicated “calming cabin” designed for guests with sensory sensitivities, featuring adjustable lighting, sound-dampening walls, and a variety of textured surfaces. The farm also offers animal therapy sessions and guided sensory-friendly farm tours.

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Budget-Friendly Unusual Stays

Unique doesn’t always mean expensive. Washington offers several affordable options for travelers seeking extraordinary experiences on a budget.

Quirky Urban Hostels The Green Tortoise Hostel in Seattle is housed in a historic building in Pike Place Market. It offers affordable dormitory-style and private rooms with eclectic decor, a communal kitchen, and organized group activities. The hostel’s central location and unique charm make it a budget-friendly base for exploring Seattle.

Tiny House Adventures Tiny Tack House in Everett offers an affordable tiny house experience. This 140-square-foot house on wheels features a sleeping loft, compact kitchen, and a small deck. It’s a great way to try out tiny living without breaking the bank.

Primitive Forest Service Cabins The U.S. Forest Service maintains several rustic cabins throughout Washington’s national forests. The Evergreen Lookout in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest offers a true back-to-nature experience at a fraction of the cost of more luxurious accommodations. While amenities are minimal, the views and solitude are priceless.

Culinary-Focused Unique Stays

For food and wine enthusiasts, these accommodations offer more than just a place to sleep – they provide immersive culinary experiences.

Vineyard Cottage with Wine Pairing Dinners The Vine House at Karma Vineyards in Chelan offers a luxurious stay among the vines. The package includes a private wine tasting and a multi-course dinner paired with Karma’s wines, all enjoyed in the intimacy of your cottage overlooking Lake Chelan.

Floating Home with Seafood Kitchen The “Wayward Sailor” houseboat on Lake Union in Seattle is a food lover’s dream. This floating home features a gourmet kitchen stocked with local seafood and a private deck where you can enjoy your creations while watching seaplanes land on the lake. The owners can arrange for a local chef to provide a cooking class focusing on Pacific Northwest cuisine.

Farm-to-Table Immersion Nettle Grove Farm Stay in Enumclaw offers a hands-on culinary experience. Guests stay in a cozy farmhouse and can participate in every step of the farm-to-table process – from harvesting vegetables and collecting eggs to preparing meals in the farm’s outdoor kitchen. The stay includes a series of cooking classes using the farm’s fresh produce.

Adventure-Centric Accommodations

For thrill-seekers, these unique stays incorporate adventure right into your accommodation experience.

Treetop Zipline Resort Canopy Camp at Mount Rainier offers a combination of zipline adventures and unique forest accommodations. Guests stay in elevated platforms connected by ziplines and rope bridges. The package includes guided zipline tours through the forest canopy and ends with a night spent in a treetop sleeping platform.

Kayak-in Island Campsites The Cascadia Marine Trail in Puget Sound offers a network of kayak-in campsites on various islands. Hope Island State Park provides a unique camping experience accessible only by boat. Paddlers can set up camp on this small, forested island and spend their days exploring the surrounding waters rich with marine life.

Climber’s Paradise Hostel Leavenworth Climbing House caters specifically to rock climbing enthusiasts. This hostel features indoor bouldering walls, a gear exchange, and organized group trips to nearby climbing areas. It’s an affordable basecamp for exploring the world-class climbing routes in the Icicle Creek area.

Wellness and Retreat-Oriented Stays

For those seeking relaxation, personal growth, or spiritual experiences, Washington offers several unique retreat options.

Repurposed Monastery Silent Retreats The Monastery of St. Gertrude in Cottonwood has transformed part of its grounds into a retreat center. Guests can stay in simple, converted nun’s cells and participate in silent retreats, guided meditations, and contemplative walks through the monastery’s extensive grounds.

Forest Bathing Cabins The Woodlands House at Sunnyside, located in the Cascade foothills, is designed specifically for forest bathing experiences. The glass-walled cabin is surrounded by old-growth forest, with guided forest bathing sessions available. The property also features outdoor soaking tubs positioned for optimal forest views.

Meditation Domes with Panoramic Views Sahale Glacier Camp in North Cascades National Park offers a unique high-altitude meditation experience. While reaching the camp requires a challenging hike, the reward is a stay in geodesic domes with 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks. The camp offers guided meditation sessions at sunrise and sunset.

Photographer’s Dream Stays

For those looking to capture Washington’s natural beauty, these accommodations offer prime locations for photography.

Northern Lights Glass Cabins The Rolling Huts in Mazama, mentioned earlier, take on a new appeal for photographers in winter. The floor-to-ceiling windows and minimal light pollution make these modernist cabins perfect for capturing the occasional Northern Lights displays visible from Washington State.

Wildflower Meadow Chalets Paradise Inn at Mount Rainier National Park places you in the heart of subalpine meadows that explode with wildflowers in late July and August. The historic lodge offers easy access to some of the most photogenic wildflower displays in the state, with Mount Rainier as a backdrop.

Mount Rainier Sunrise Viewpoint Cabins The Crystal Mountain Resort offers summit suites with unobstructed views of Mount Rainier. Photographers can capture alpenglow on the mountain at sunrise without leaving their accommodation. The resort’s gondola provides easy access to various vantage points for shooting the mountain and surrounding landscapes.

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Conclusion: Embracing the Extraordinary in Washington State

From sleeping among the treetops to soaking in natural hot springs, Washington State offers an incredible array of unique places to stay that cater to every taste and adventure level. These extraordinary accommodations not only provide a place to rest your head but also become an integral part of your Washington experience, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Whether you’re seeking solitude in a fire lookout tower, immersing yourself in farm life, or indulging in eco-luxury, the Evergreen State has something to offer every traveler looking for accommodations beyond the ordinary. By choosing one of these unique places to stay in Washington State, you’re not just booking a room – you’re embarking on an unforgettable journey through one of America’s most diverse and beautiful landscapes.

So, on your next trip to Washington, consider stepping outside your comfort zone and into one of these remarkable accommodations. Your adventure awaits in the forests, mountains, islands, and hidden corners of this spectacular state. Embrace the extraordinary, and let Washington’s unique stays become the highlight of your Pacific Northwest experience.