Washington, located in the northwestern region of the United States, is a state known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and innovative spirit. With its towering mountains, expansive forests, and bustling urban centers, Washington offers a distinctive blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. To help visitors and residents navigate this beautiful state, we have created a detailed map of Washington with cities and highways.
This map highlights Washington’s major cities, including Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Vancouver, as well as its primary highways and roads. Whether you’re planning a road trip or simply want to explore Washington’s unique landscape and culture, this map is an essential tool. So, grab your map and get ready to discover all that Washington has to offer, from its world-renowned coffee shops to its stunning national parks and everything in between.
Printable Washington Map With Cities and Highways
Cities
Aberdeen
Aberdeen is a city located in Grays Harbor County, Washington, United States. With a population of 17,013 according to the 2020 census, it is the economic center of Grays Harbor County, bordering the cities of Hoquiam and Cosmopolis.
Aberdeen is known for its rich history in the timber industry and has been home to several prominent musicians, including Kurt Cobain of Nirvana. The city is occasionally referred to as the “Gateway to the Olympic Peninsula” due to its proximity to the Olympic National Park and the Olympic Mountains.
Aberdeen offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and kayaking, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city also has a vibrant arts community, with several museums and galleries showcasing local artists.
Anacortes
Anacortes is a charming city located in Skagit County, Washington, United States. The city’s name is derived from Anne Curtis Bowman, the wife of early Fidalgo Island settler Amos Bowman. With a population of 17,637 according to the 2020 census, Anacortes is one of two principal cities included in the Mount Vernon-Anacortes Metropolitan Statistical Area.
The city is known for its Washington State Ferries dock and terminal, which serves several islands, including Lopez Island, Shaw Island, Orcas Island, and San Juan Island. Anacortes is also home to a Skagit County-operated ferry that serves Guemes Island, a residential island located across the Guemes Channel, north of Anacortes.
The city offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and kayaking, making it a popular destination for visitors. Anacortes also has an exciting arts community, with a number of galleries and museums showcasing local artists.
Auburn
Auburn is a vibrant city located in King County, Washington, United States, with a small portion crossing into neighboring Pierce County. With a population of 87,256 according to the 2020 Census, Auburn is currently ranked as the 14th most populous city in the state of Washington. The city is a suburb in the Seattle metropolitan area, offering a convenient location for both commercial and residential purposes.
Auburn is known for its rich history in the agriculture industry and has been home to several notable figures, including former NBA player Isaiah Thomas. The Muckleshoot Indian Reservation lies to the south and southeast, adding to the cultural diversity of the area.
Auburn offers a variety of opportunities for outdoor pursuits, including hiking, biking, and fishing. The city also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with a range of museums and galleries displaying local artworks.
Bellevue
Bellevue is a thriving city located in the Eastside region of King County, Washington, United States, situated across Lake Washington from Seattle. With a population of 151,854 according to the 2020 census, it is the third-largest city in the Seattle metropolitan area and has been characterized as a satellite city, a suburb, a boomburb, or an edge city.
The city’s name is derived from the French term “belle vue” (“beautiful view”). Bellevue is home to some of the world’s largest technology companies, including PACCAR Inc., T-Mobile US, Valve, and the Amazon headquarters, which was founded by Jeff Bezos.
The city’s downtown area has undergone rapid change over the years, with many high-rise projects being constructed. Downtown Bellevue is currently the second-largest city center in Washington state, boasting over 1,300 businesses, 45,000 employees, and 10,200 residents.
Bellevue has been ranked as one of the best places to live and launch a business in America, with a high median household income and a thriving economy. With its beautiful views, vibrant culture, and prosperous technology industry, Bellevue is a popular destination for both residents and visitors alike.
Bellingham
Bellingham is a bustling city located in Whatcom County, Washington, United States, and is the county seat. With a population of 91,482 according to the 2020 census, it is the most populous city in the county and is the northernmost city in the contiguous United States with a population of more than 90,000 people.
Bellingham lies 21 miles (34 km) south of the U.S.-Canada border and is situated between Vancouver, British Columbia (located 52 miles (84 km) to the northwest) and Seattle (90 miles (140 km) to the south). The city is home to Western Washington University, Bellingham International Airport, and is the southern terminus of the Alaska Marine Highway system.
Bellingham’s waterfront is currently undergoing redevelopment, with 237 acres of former industrial land being transformed into a new urban neighborhood. This represents a significant change from Bellingham’s industrial past and marks the first time new buildings have been constructed on the waterfront in decades. With its absorbing culture, bustling economy, and beautiful natural surroundings, Bellingham is a great location for both residents and visitors.
Bremerton
Bremerton is a wonderful city located in Kitsap County, Washington, United States. With a population of 43,505 according to the 2020 census and an estimated 44,122 in 2021, it is the largest city on the Kitsap Peninsula. Bremerton is known for its rich history in the naval industry and is home to Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and the Bremerton Annex of Naval Base Kitsap.
The city is connected to downtown Seattle by two ferries, including a 60-minute ferry that carries both vehicles and walk-on passengers and a 28-minute Fast Ferry that carries passengers and a limited number of bicycles. Bremerton offers an array of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The city also has an energetic arts and culture scene, with several museums and galleries highlighting local art. With its convenient location, rich history, and beautiful natural surroundings, Bremerton is a popular destination to both live and visit.
Burien
Burien is a suburban city located in King County, Washington, United States, situated south of Seattle on Puget Sound. With a population of 52,066 according to the 2020 census, it is the 25th most populous city in Washington. Burien has experienced significant growth since its incorporation in 1993, with a 56.3% increase in population. An annexation in 2010 also contributed to the city’s population growth.
Burien offers a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and fishing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with several museums and galleries that encourage the involvement of local artists.
Burien is home to several notable landmarks, including the Highline Heritage Museum and the Seahurst Park Beach. With its marvelous location, growing population, and beautiful natural surroundings, Burien is a great spot to live, work, or play.
Camas
Camas is a charming city located in Clark County, Washington, United States, with a population of 26,065 according to the 2020 census. The east side of the town borders the city of Washougal, Washington, while the west side of the town borders Vancouver, Washington. Camas is situated along the Washington side of the Columbia River, across from Troutdale, Oregon, and is part of the Portland metropolitan area.
One of the major geographical features of the city is Prune Hill, which is an extinct volcanic vent and part of the Boring Lava Field of northwest Oregon and southwest Washington. Camas offers a variety of pursuits such as hiking, biking, and fishing, making it a satisfying destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The city is also home to several parks, including Lacamas Lake Regional Park and Fallen Leaf Park. With its beautiful natural surroundings, prosperous economy, and convenient location, Camas is a fulfilling place for residents and visitors alike.
Centralia
Centralia is a charming city located in Lewis County, Washington, United States. With a population of 18,183 according to the 2020 census, it is situated along Interstate 5 near the midpoint between Seattle and Portland, Oregon. Centralia is known for its rich history in the logging industry and is home to several historic sites, including the Centralia Railroad Depot and the Centralia Pioneer Museum.
The city is twinned with Chehalis, located to the south near the confluence of the Chehalis and Newaukum rivers. Centralia also offers an array of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing.
The city is also home to several parks, including Seminary Hill Natural Area and Fort Borst Park. With its wonderful location, rich heritage, and beautiful natural landscapes, Centralia is an attractive destination for people from across the area.
Kennewick
Kennewick is a bustling city located in Benton County, Washington, United States. With a population of 83,921 according to the 2020 census, it is the most populous of the three cities collectively referred to as the Tri-Cities (the others being Pasco and Richland). Kennewick is situated along the southwest bank of the Columbia River, just southeast of the confluence of the Columbia and Yakima Rivers and across from the confluence of the Columbia and Snake Rivers.
The discovery of Kennewick Man along the banks of the Columbia River provides evidence of Native Americans’ settlement of the area for at least 9,000 years. The city’s growth accelerated in the 1940s with the construction of the Hanford Site at Richland, which brought workers from around the country to participate in the Manhattan Project.
While Hanford and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory continue to be major sources of employment, the city’s economy has diversified over time, and Kennewick today hosts offices for Amazon and Lamb Weston. With its fascinating history, robust economy, and gorgeous surroundings, Kennewick is a satisfying destination for both residents and visitors.
Des Moines
Des Moines is a delightful city located in King County, Washington, United States. With a population of 32,888 according to the 2020 census, it is situated on the east shore of Puget Sound, near the center of the Seattle metropolitan area. Des Moines is bordered by the suburbs of Federal Way to the south, Kent to the east, SeaTac to the northeast, Burien to the north, and Normandy Park to the northwest.
The city is one of the few points along this shoreline where the topography facilitates access to the water, and a recreational marina operated by the city, with moorage, boat launching, and pier fishing facilities, is located there. Forested Saltwater State Park, situated on a steep ravine between the Zenith and Woodmont neighborhoods, is the most-used state park on the Sound.
Near the border of Federal Way, Redondo has a boardwalk complete with a Salty’s restaurant and a pay parking lot. With its pretty surroundings, exciting economy, and great location, Des Moines continues to attract people from across the region.
Edmonds
Edmonds is a picturesque city located in Snohomish County, Washington, United States. With a population of 42,853 residents according to the 2020 U.S. census, it is the third most populous city in the county. Edmonds is situated in the southwest corner of the county, facing Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains to the west. The city is part of the Seattle metropolitan area and is located 15 miles (24 km) north of Seattle and 18 miles (29 km) southwest of Everett.
Edmonds was established in 1876 by logger George Brackett and was incorporated as a city in 1890, shortly before the arrival of the Great Northern Railway. The city’s early residents were employed by the shingle mills and logging companies that operated in the area until the 1950s. Today, Edmonds is a regional hub for the arts, with museums, specialized facilities, and major annual festivals within the city’s downtown area.
The city is connected to nearby areas by two state highways and the state ferry system, which operates a ferry route to Kingston on the Kitsap Peninsula. Public transit service in Edmonds is centered around the downtown train station, served by Amtrak and Sounder commuter trains, and includes several Community Transit bus routes that travel through outlying neighborhoods.
Everett
Everett is a bustling city located in Snohomish County, Washington, United States. With a population of 110,629 residents according to the 2020 census, it is the county seat and largest city of Snohomish County. Everett is primarily situated on a peninsula at the mouth of the Snohomish River along Port Gardner Bay, an inlet of Possession Sound (itself part of Puget Sound), and extends to the south and west.
The Port Gardner Peninsula has been inhabited by the Snohomish people for thousands of years, with modern settlement in the area beginning with loggers and homesteaders arriving in the 1860s. The city was incorporated in 1893, shortly after the arrival of the Great Northern Railway, and prospered as a major lumber center with several large sawmills. Everett became the county seat in 1897 after a dispute with Snohomish.
The city’s economy transitioned away from lumber and towards aerospace after World War II, with the construction of Boeing’s aircraft assembly plant at Paine Field in 1967. Boeing remains the city’s largest employer, alongside the U.S. Navy, which has operated Naval Station Everett since 1994.
Everett is a major employment center for Snohomish County and is connected to Seattle by Interstate 5 and various public transit services at Everett Station. With its amazing history, thriving economic context, and beautiful landscapes, Everett is a marvelous destination for residents and visitors alike.
Federal Way
Federal Way is a vibrant city located in King County, Washington, United States. One of the most recently incorporated cities in the county, its population was 101,030 according to the 2020 census, making it the 10th most populous city in Washington and the 5th most populous in King County.
Federal Way is a welcoming community with a diverse population and a strong economy. The city is home to numerous businesses, including major retailers, technology companies, and healthcare providers. It is also a hub for transportation, with easy access to Interstate 5 and State Route 18.
Federal Way offers an array of recreational opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and a community center with a pool and fitness facilities. With its friendly community, robust economy, and gorgeous surroundings, Federal Way is a great place to live, work, and play.
Kent
Kent is a bustling city located in King County, Washington, United States. As part of the Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue metropolitan area, it had a population of 136,588 residents according to the 2020 census, making it the 4th most populous municipality in greater Seattle and the 6th most populous in Washington state.
The city is connected to Seattle, Bellevue, and Tacoma via State Route 167 and Interstate 5, Sounder commuter rail, and commuter buses. Incorporated in 1890, Kent is the second-oldest incorporated city in King County, after Seattle. The city is generally divided into three areas: West Hill, which is mixed residential and commercial along Interstate 5; Valley, which is primarily industrial and commercial with some medium-density residential and significant parkland along Green River; and East Hill, which is primarily residential with retail.
Kent is home to numerous businesses, including major retailers, distribution centers, and manufacturing facilities. The city also offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and a community center with a pool and fitness facilities. With its thriving economy, diverse population, and natural scenery, Kent is a wonderful area to visit or live in.
Lacey
Lacey is a charming city located in Thurston County, Washington, United States. As a suburb of Olympia, it had a population of 53,526 residents according to the 2020 census, making it the 24th most populous city in Washington. Lacey is situated along Interstate 5 between Olympia and the Nisqually River, which marks the border with Pierce County and Joint Base Lewis–McChord.
The city offers plenty of outdoor opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and a community center with a pool and fitness facilities. Lacey is also home to numerous businesses, including major retailers, healthcare providers, and government agencies.
The city has a strong sense of community and hosts several annual events, including the Lacey Spring Fun Fair and the Lacey Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular. With its glorious natural surroundings, burgeoning economy, and vigorous sense of community, Lacey is an immensely attractive local area.
Longview
Longview is a vibrant city located in Cowlitz County, Washington, United States. As the principal city of the Longview, Washington Metropolitan Statistical Area, which encompasses all of Cowlitz County, it had a population of 37,818 residents according to the 2020 census, making it the largest city in the county. Longview is located in southwestern Washington, at the junction of the Cowlitz and Columbia rivers, and shares a border with Kelso to the east, which is the county seat.
The city has a fascinating history, having been planned and built by the Long-Bell Lumber Company in 1921 to support the two large mills and lumber camps that were planned. In fact, several buildings in the city were built from Robert A. Long’s private funds. Today, Longview is a thriving community with a diverse population and a strong economy.
The city is home to numerous businesses, including major retailers, healthcare providers, and manufacturing facilities. It also offers a range of recreational opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and a community center with a pool and fitness facilities. With its intriguing history, beautiful displays of nature, and solid sense of community, Longview is a brilliant location.
Marysville
Marysville is a bustling city located in Snohomish County, Washington, United States, and is part of the Seattle metropolitan area. The city is situated 35 miles (56 km) north of Seattle, adjacent to Everett on the north side of the Snohomish River delta. With a population of 70,714 residents according to the 2020 U.S. census, Marysville is the second-largest city in Snohomish County after Everett.
The city has experienced rapid growth in recent years, with an annual growth rate of 2.5 percent, making it the fastest-growing city in Washington state as of 2015. Marysville has a rich history, having been established in 1872 as a trading post by James P. Comeford and incorporated in 1891 after the completion of the Great Northern Railway.
The city is oriented north–south along Interstate 5, bordering the Tulalip Indian Reservation to the west and State Route 9 to the east. The city has historically relied on lumber and agrarian products, with the growth of strawberry fields leading to the nickname “Strawberry City” in the 1920s. Today, Marysville is a thriving community with a diverse population and a lively economy.
Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon is a charming city located in Skagit County, Washington, United States. As the county seat, it had a population of 35,219 residents according to the 2020 census and is one of two principal cities included in the Mount Vernon-Anacortes, Washington Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city is known for its annual Tulip Festival Street Fair, which is part of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival and draws visitors from all over the world.
The climate of Skagit County is similar to that of Northern France, making it an ideal location for growing tulips. In fact, millions of tulips are grown in the Skagit Valley each year. In 1998, Mount Vernon was rated the #1 “Best City in America” by the New Rating Guide to Life in America’s Small Cities, a testament to its strong sense of community, beautiful natural surroundings, and thriving economy.
The city offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and a community center with a pool and fitness facilities. With its charming downtown area, friendly residents, and beautiful tulip fields, Mount Vernon is a great place to live, work, and play.
Oak Harbor
Oak Harbor is a picturesque city located on Whidbey Island in Island County, Washington, United States. With a population of 22,075 residents according to the 2010 census, it is a small yet vivacious community. Oak Harbor was incorporated on May 14, 1915, and has a rich history dating back to the early 1850s when it was first settled by European immigrants.
Today, the city is home to numerous businesses, including major retailers, healthcare providers, and government agencies. It also offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and a community center with a pool and fitness facilities.
Oak Harbor is known for its pleasing surroundings, including stunning views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. With its vigorous sense of community, rich heritage, and beautiful natural landscapes, Oak Harbor is waiting for you with open arms.
Olympia
Olympia is a historic city and the capital of the U.S. state of Washington. As the county seat and most populous city of Thurston County, it had a population of 55,605 residents according to the 2020 census, making it the state’s 23rd most populous city. Olympia is located 60 miles (100 km) southwest of the state’s most populous city, Seattle, and is a cultural center of the southern Puget Sound region.
Prior to the arrival of European and American settlers in the 19th century, the southern Puget Sound region was inhabited by the Squaxin and other Coast Salish peoples. The Treaty of Medicine Creek was signed in 1854 and followed by the Treaty of Olympia in 1856, which forced the Squaxin to relocate to an Indian reservation. Olympia was incorporated as a town on January 28, 1859, and as a city in 1882.
Today, it is a thriving community with a strong economy and a variety of recreational opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and a community center with a pool and fitness facilities. Olympia borders Lacey to the east and Tumwater to the south. With its intriguing heritage, gorgeous natural surroundings, and growing economy, Olympia is an exciting and enticing destination.
Pasco
Pasco is a vibrant city located in Franklin County, Washington, United States, and is the county seat. With a population of 77,108 residents according to the 2020 census and 79,315 as of the July 1, 2022 estimate, it is a thriving community. Pasco is one of three cities, along with Kennewick and Richland, that make up Washington state’s Tri-Cities region, a mid-sized metropolitan area of approximately 303,622 people.
The city has a diverse population and a strong economy, with numerous businesses, including major retailers, healthcare providers, and manufacturing facilities. Pasco offers a variety of recreational pursuits, including parks, hiking trails, and a community center with a pool and fitness facilities.
The city is also home to the Franklin County Historical Society and Museum, which showcases the area’s rich history. With its strong sense of community, beautiful natural surroundings, and thriving economy, Pasco is a great place to live, work, and play.
Port Angeles
Port Angeles is a charming city located in Clallam County, Washington, United States, and is the county seat. With a population of 19,960 residents according to the 2020 census and an estimated population of 20,134 in 2021, it is the largest city in the county. The city’s harbor was dubbed Puerto de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles (Port of Our Lady of the Angels) by Spanish explorer Francisco de Eliza in 1791.
By the mid-19th century, after settlement by English speakers from the United States, the name was shortened and partially anglicized to its current form, Port Angeles Harbor. Port Angeles is home to Peninsula College and is a hub for writers and artists. The city is also the birthplace of football Hall of Famer John Elway.
The city is served by William R. Fairchild International Airport and ferry service is provided across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Victoria, British Columbia, Canada on the MV Coho. With its stunning surroundings, rich heritage, and vibrant community, Port Angeles is a marvelous place to live.
Redmond
Redmond is a thriving city located in King County, Washington, United States, situated 15 miles (24 km) east of Seattle. With a population of 73,256 residents according to the 2020 census, up from 54,144 in 2010, it is a growing community.
Redmond is best known as the home of Microsoft and Nintendo of America, which have contributed to the city’s strong economy and reputation as a technology hub. Additionally, Redmond is known as the “Bicycle Capital of the Northwest”, with an annual bike race on city streets and the state’s only velodrome.
The city offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and a community center with a pool and fitness facilities. With its strong sense of community, natural beauty, and burgeoning economy, Redmond is an inspirational area to settle down in.
Renton
Renton is a bustling city located in King County, Washington, United States, and an inner-ring suburb of Seattle. Situated 11 miles (18 km) southeast of downtown Seattle, Renton straddles the southeast shore of Lake Washington, at the mouth of the Cedar River.
With a population of 106,785 residents according to the 2020 census, up from 90,927 at the 2010 census, it is the 6th most populous municipality in greater Seattle and the 8th most populous city in Washington. Renton has a rich history dating back to the Native Americans who fished for salmon in the area. The city’s early economy was based on coal mining, clay production, and timber export.
Today, Renton is best known as the final assembly point for the Boeing 737 family of commercial airplanes, but it is also home to a growing number of well-known manufacturing, technology, and healthcare organizations, including Boeing Commercial Airplanes Division, Paccar, Kaiser Permanente, IKEA, Providence Health & Services, UW Medicine, and Wizards of the Coast.
With its strong economy, beautiful natural surroundings, and thriving community, Renton is a great place to live, work, and play.
Richland
Richland is a vibrant city located in Benton County, Washington, United States. It is situated in southeastern Washington at the confluence of the Yakima and the Columbia Rivers. With a population of 60,560 residents according to the 2020 census, it is a growing community.
Along with the nearby cities of Pasco and Kennewick, Richland is one of the Tri-Cities and is known for its strong economy and the Hanford nuclear site, which has played a significant role in the city’s history. Richland offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and a community center with a pool and fitness facilities.
The city is also home to numerous businesses, including major retailers, healthcare providers, and government agencies. With its natural landscapes, robust economy, and exciting community, Richland is full of surprises.
Seattle
Seattle is a bustling seaport city located on the West Coast of the United States and is the seat of King County, Washington. With a population of 749,256 residents as of 2022, it is the most populous city in both the state of Washington and the Pacific Northwest region of North America. The Seattle metropolitan area’s population is 4.02 million, making it the 15th-largest in the United States.
Seattle is situated on an isthmus between Puget Sound and Lake Washington and is the northernmost major city in the United States, located about 100 miles (160 km) south of the Canadian border. The city is a major gateway for trade with East Asia, and the Port of Seattle is the fourth-largest port in North America in terms of container handling as of 2021.
Seattle has a rich history dating back over 4,000 years when Native Americans inhabited the area. The city was settled by European immigrants in the mid-19th century and named “Seattle” in honor of Chief Seattle, a prominent 19th-century leader of the local Duwamish and Suquamish tribes. Seattle has a diverse population, including Native Americans, and Americans with strong Asian, African, European, and Scandinavian ancestry, and hosts the sixth-largest LGBT community in the U.S.
Seattle has a rich cultural heritage, including a significant musical history that nurtured the early careers of jazz and rock legends such as Ray Charles, Quincy Jones, and Jimi Hendrix. With its strong economy, beautiful natural surroundings, and thriving community, Seattle is a great place to live, work, and play.
Shoreline
Shoreline is a charming city located in King County, Washington, United States. It is situated between the city limits of Seattle and the Snohomish County border, approximately 9 miles (14 km) north of Downtown Seattle. With a population of 58,608 residents according to the 2020 census, it is the 22nd largest city in the state.
Shoreline is known for its diverse community and is home to a variety of ethnic restaurants, shops, and cultural events. The city offers a range of recreational opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and a community center with a pool and fitness facilities.
Based on per capita income, Shoreline ranks 91st of 522 areas in the state of Washington to be ranked, making it one of the more affluent areas in the state. With its strong sense of community, beautiful natural surroundings, and thriving economy, Shoreline is a pleasing place to live.
Spokane
Spokane is a thriving city located in Spokane County, Washington, United States. It is situated in eastern Washington, along the Spokane River, adjacent to the Selkirk Mountains, and west of the Rocky Mountain foothills. With a population of 228,989 residents according to the 2020 census, Spokane is the most populous city in and seat of government of Spokane County.
The city is the economic and cultural center of the Spokane metropolitan area, the Spokane–Coeur d’Alene combined statistical area, and the Inland Northwest. Spokane is known for being the birthplace of Father’s Day and is locally nicknamed the “Lilac City.” It is also known as Hooptown USA, due to hosting the world’s largest basketball tournament, Spokane Hoopfest, annually.
Spokane has a deep history dating back to the first people to live in the area, the Spokane tribe. The city has a thriving economy, with industries such as mining, timber, and agriculture, as well as a growing technology sector. Spokane is home to numerous parks, museums, and universities, including Gonzaga University and Whitworth University.
Tacoma
Tacoma is a vibrant port city located in Pierce County, Washington, United States. It is situated along Washington’s Puget Sound, 32 miles (51 km) southwest of Seattle, 31 miles (50 km) northeast of the state capital, Olympia, and 58 miles (93 km) northwest of Mount Rainier National Park. With a population of 219,346 residents at the time of the 2020 census, Tacoma is the second-largest city in the Puget Sound area and the third-most populous in the state.
Tacoma is known as the “City of Destiny” because the area was chosen to be the western terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad in the late 19th century. Tacoma’s neighboring deep-water harbor, Commencement Bay, played a significant role in the railroad’s decision. The Port of Tacoma, located on Commencement Bay, is a center of international trade on the Pacific Coast and Washington’s largest port.
Tacoma has a rich history, including the infamous collapse of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge in 1940, which earned the nickname “Galloping Gertie.” Despite suffering a decline in the mid-20th century, Tacoma has experienced a period of revitalization since the 1990s, with developments in the downtown area including the University of Washington Tacoma, the T Line (formerly Tacoma Link), and a restored urban waterfront, the Thea Foss Waterway.
Vancouver
Vancouver is a charming city located on the north bank of the Columbia River in Clark County, Washington, United States. Founded in 1825 and incorporated in 1857, Vancouver had a population of 190,915 residents according to the 2020 census, making it the fourth-largest city in Washington state.
Vancouver is the seat of government of Clark County and forms part of the Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area, the 25th-largest metropolitan area in the United States. The city’s history dates back to its establishment in 1825 around Fort Vancouver, a fur-trading outpost.
Vancouver is located on the Washington–Oregon border along the Columbia River, directly north of Portland, and is considered a suburb of the city along with its surrounding areas. Vancouver is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument.
The city offers a range of recreational opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and a community center with a pool and fitness facilities. With its strong sense of community, thriving economy, and beautiful natural surroundings, Vancouver is a great place to live, work, and play.
Yakima
Yakima is a thriving city located in Yakima County, Washington, United States. As the state’s 11th most populous city, Yakima had a total population of 96,968 residents according to the 2020 census, with a metropolitan population of 256,728. The city is the county seat of Yakima County and is situated about 60 miles (100 kilometers) southeast of Mount Rainier in Washington.
Yakima is located in the Yakima Valley, a productive agricultural region known for apple, wine, and hop production. In fact, as of 2011, the Yakima Valley produces 77% of all hops grown in the United States. The name Yakima originates from the Yakama Nation Native American tribe, whose reservation is located south of the city.
Yakima is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including the Yakima River and the Yakima Canyon Scenic Byway. The city offers a range of recreational opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and a community center with a pool and fitness facilities. With its fascinating heritage, bustling economy, and beautiful surroundings, Yakima is a marvelous spot to live.
Interstates
Interstate 5
Interstate 5 (I-5) is a major interstate highway on the West Coast of the United States and serves as the primary north-south route in the region. The highway spans 277 miles (446 km) across the state of Washington, from the Oregon state border at Vancouver, through the Puget Sound region, to the Canadian border at Blaine.
I-5 is the busiest highway in Washington, with an average of 274,000 vehicles traveling on it through Downtown Seattle on a typical day. The freeway connects several major cities, including Tacoma, Seattle, and Everett, and features a set of express lanes that reverse direction depending on the time of day. I-5 also has several related auxiliary Interstates in the state, as well as designated business routes and state routes.
The highway follows historic railroads and wagon trails developed during the American settlement of western Washington in the mid-to-late 19th century and was incorporated into the national U.S. Route 99 in 1926. The highway was later designated as I-5 in 1957 and construction was completed in 1969, with several segments being widened or improved in the decades since.
Interstate 205
Interstate 205 (I-205) is an auxiliary Interstate Highway that serves as a bypass route of I-5 along the east side of Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington. The north-south freeway is 37 miles (60 km) long and intersects several major highways, including serving Portland International Airport.
The freeway connects to I-5 at both of its termini, to the south in Tualatin, Oregon, and to the north in Salmon Creek, Washington. The corridor is paralleled by a multi-use bicycle and pedestrian trail, as well as portions of the MAX Light Rail system between Clackamas and northeastern Portland.
The freeway was initially proposed in a 1943 plan for the area and was included in the federal government’s preliminary plans for the Interstate Highway System in the 1950s. Construction began in 1967, and the freeway was completed in stages, with the Glenn L. Jackson Memorial Bridge, spanning the Columbia River between Portland and Vancouver, opening in 1982. The remaining section in Portland opened in 1983, and additional ramps were constructed to connect with I-84 two years later.
Interstate 90
Interstate 90 (I-90), also known as the American Veterans Memorial Highway, is a transcontinental Interstate Highway that runs from Seattle, Washington, to Boston, Massachusetts. The highway crosses Washington state from west to east, traveling 298 miles (480 km) from Seattle across the Cascade Mountains and into Eastern Washington, reaching the Idaho state line east of Spokane.
I-90 is the only interstate to connect the state’s two largest cities, Seattle and Spokane, and incorporates two of the longest floating bridges in the world, the Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge and the Homer M. Hadley Memorial Bridge, which cross Lake Washington from Seattle to Mercer Island.
The freeway travels across suburban bedroom communities in the Seattle metropolitan area, the forests of the Cascade Range, and the high plains of the Columbia Plateau. The crossing at Snoqualmie Pass was established as a wagon road in 1867 and incorporated into a cross-state auto trail, known as the Sunset Highway, in the early 1910s. The Sunset Highway was incorporated into the national highway system in 1926 as part of US 10, which I-90 replaced when it was designated in 1957.
Interstate 82
Interstate 82 (I-82) is an Interstate Highway that runs through parts of Washington and Oregon in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. The highway spans 144 miles (232 km) from its northwestern terminus at I-90 in Ellensburg, Washington, to its southeastern terminus at I-84 in Hermiston, Oregon.
I-82 passes through Yakima and the Tri-Cities and is also part of the link between Seattle and Salt Lake City, Utah. The highway serves the Yakima Valley agricultural region, following the Yakima and Columbia rivers southeastward to the Tri-Cities.
I-82 was created in late 1957 to serve military facilities in the region, replacing an earlier designation for what is now I-84. The highway was constructed in stages, with the Yakima Valley section being completed between 1977 and 1982, and the Tri-Cities section opening in 1986.
Highways
Route 2
U.S. Route 2 (US 2) is a component of the United States Numbered Highway System that connects the city of Everett in the U.S. state of Washington to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. In Washington, the highway travels on a 326-mile-long (525 km) route that connects the western and eastern regions of the state as a part of the state highway system and the National Highway System.
US 2 forms parts of two National Scenic Byways, the Stevens Pass Greenway from Monroe to Cashmere and the Coulee Corridor Scenic Byway near Coulee City, and an All-American Road named the International Selkirk Loop within Newport. The present route of US 2 follows several wagon roads that were built in the late 19th century by local railroad companies.
The United States Highway System was adopted on November 11, 1926, and designated US 10 on the future route of US 2 from Peshastin to Spokane and US 195 from Spokane to Newport. US 10 was re-routed in 1939 and replaced by US 10 Alternate, which was routed across Stevens Pass in the 1940s and itself replaced by US 2 in 1946.
Route 12
U.S. Route 12 (US 12) is a major east–west U.S. Highway that spans 430.8 miles across the state of Washington, making it the second longest highway in the state. It is also the only numbered highway to span the entire state from west to east, starting near the Pacific Ocean, and crossing the Idaho state line near Clarkston.
The highway crosses the Cascade Range over White Pass, south of Mount Rainier National Park. Portions of it are concurrent with Interstate 5 (I-5) and Interstate 82 (I-82), although the majority of the route does not parallel any interstate highway.
US 12 has been part of Washington’s state highway system since as early as 1905, and portions of it were designated as part of the U.S. Highway System since its inception in 1926 as part of U.S. Route 410. The last part of the highway to open was over White Pass in 1951, although it was added to the state highway system by the legislature in 1931.
Route 97
U.S. Route 97 (US 97) in the U.S. state of Washington is a 322-mile (518 km) route that traverses from the Oregon state line at the northern end of the Sam Hill Memorial Bridge in Maryhill, north to the Canada–US border in Okanogan County near Oroville. The highway serves major cities such as Goldendale, Yakima, Ellensburg, and Wenatchee before continuing towards the Alaska Highway at the Yukon border as British Columbia Highway 97.
Along the length of the roadway, US 97 is concurrent with several state routes and interstate highways, including State Route 14 (SR 14), Interstate 82 (I-82), US 12, I-90, US 2, and SR 20. The first segment of what is now US 97 in Washington to be included in the state highway system was designated in 1897, and since then, four early highways formed the modern route of the roadway.
The United States Numbered Highways were established in 1926, and US 97 was co-signed with all four state roads, including two concurrencies with US 410 and US 10. The highway underwent several changes during the 1964 highway renumbering, and in 1956, the Interstate Highway System was established, including two highways (I-82 and I-90) concurrent with US 97.
Route 101
US 101 enters Washington state at the north end of the Astoria–Megler Bridge and immediately turns west to follow the Columbia River. The highway passes through several cities, including Ilwaco, South Bend, and Raymond, before crossing the Chehalis River into Aberdeen. It then travels inland to cross the forested Willapa Hills to reach Aberdeen.
US 101 circumnavigates the Olympic Peninsula and provides the main access to Olympic National Park and various sites via spur roads. The highway turns west from Lake Quinault to reach the Pacific coastline, which it follows for 15 miles (24 km) between Queets and Ruby Beach within Olympic National Park.
US 101 then heads northeast to follow the Hoh River upstream and intersects the main access road to the Hoh Rainforest. It then travels north through Forks and follows the Sol Duc River east to re-enter the national park. The highway enters Port Angeles and uses city streets to reach the northernmost point of US 101, near the ferry terminal for the Black Ball Line to Victoria, British Columbia.
US 101 then becomes a freeway and cuts across several inlets and bays of Puget Sound as it turns southeast towards the Olympia area. The freeway merges with SR 8 and continues southeast to reach its northern terminus at I-5 in Tumwater, near the Washington State Capitol campus in nearby Olympia.
Route 195
US 195 travels 93.37 miles (150.26 km) north through the Palouse region of Eastern Washington, from the Idaho state line north to Spokane. The highway serves as an important link between Pullman and Spokane as well as part of the Palouse Scenic Byway and a main north–south route in the region alongside State Route 27 (SR 27). US 195 enters Washington north of Clarkston and travels through farmland and the towns of Uniontown and Colton along Union Flat Creek towards Pullman.
The highway bypasses Pullman and travels through the termini of SR 194 and SR 270 as it leaves the Pullman area heading north towards Colfax along the South Fork Palouse River. US 195 becomes Main Street within Colfax and travels through the town along a WSDOT rail line to the eastern terminus of SR 272 and SR 26.
The highway continues north along Pine Creek and the WSDOT rail line past the northern terminus of SR 271, a diamond interchange south of Rosalia, before leaving the Palouse Scenic Byway at the Spokane County border. US 195 enters the city of Spokane as a four-lane highway along Hangman Creek and ends at a partial cloverleaf interchange with I-90, cosigned with US 2 and US 395.
Route 395
US 395 enters Washington with I-82 on the Umatilla Bridge, which crosses the Columbia River near Plymouth. The highway travels into the Tri-Cities area, where US 395 splits from I-82 to travel through Kennewick on city streets. US 395 merges with State Route 240 (SR 240) as it crosses the Columbia River on the Blue Bridge.
The highway travels west of downtown Pasco on a short freeway and reaches a junction with I-182 and US 12, which it joins for two miles (3.2 km). The highway leaves Pasco and its concurrency with I-182 and US 12 and turns north into the rural Columbia Plateau. The four-lane divided highway carries US 395 northeast around several small towns towards Ritzville, where it merges with I-90 and begins a 60-mile (97 km) concurrency.
The freeway is joined by US 2 and intersects US 195 in the outskirts of Spokane. In downtown Spokane, US 2 and US 395 leave I-90 and travel north on Division Street, which is split into a pair of one-way streets. US 395 proceeds north through the towns of Deer Park, Clayton, Chewelah, Colville, and Kettle Falls before terminating at the Canada–US border where it meets British Columbia Highway 395.
