Bucket List for Marsaxlokk

• St. Peter’s Pool

• Xrobb l-Għaġin

• Santwarju tal-Madonna ta’ Pompei

• Il-Kalanka

• Marsaxlokk Harbour

• It-Torri ta’ San Lucjan

• Il-Bajja ta’ Marsaxlokk

• Ta Kalanka Sea Cave

• Lighthouse Il-Kalanka

• Delimara Lighthouse

• Boat tour from Marsaxlokk to St. Peter’s Pool

• Luzzus boats (the traditional colorful fishing boats)

Free Things to Do

• Stroll the waterfront market

• Experience the Sunday fish market

• Swim or sunbathe at St. Peter’s Pool

• Wander along the harbor and admire the luzzus

Best Time to Visit

Spring and early summer (April–June) is ideal. The weather is sunny but not too hot, crowds are lighter, and you can swim if you don’t mind cooler waters.
We visited at the beginning of April and the weather was perfect — warm for exploring, cool in the evenings, and not crowded.

Where to Eat

• Il Bukkett Restaurant – Mediterranean, open daily except Tuesdays

• T’Annamari Restaurant – Sicilian, 28 Xatt is-Sajjieda, closed Tuesdays

• La Capanna Restaurant – Casual Maltese spot, closed Mondays

Where to Stay

• Talbot & Bons Boutique B&B – Il-Gudja, +356 7985 1903

• Port View Guest House – Triq il-Luzzu, Marsaxlokk, +356 9907 6004

• South Wind Guesthouse – Sant Andrija, Marsaxlokk, +356 9957 6257

(We personally stayed at the Hilton in St. Julian’s and loved the staff and location!)

Where to Stay

• Hilton Malta – where we stayed and absolutely loved it. Spacious rooms, amazing views, and great service — perfect for a comfortable base in St. Julian’s.

• Corinthia St. George’s Bay– a resort-style stay right on the water with pools and restaurants, great if you want relaxation with easy access to nightlife.

• The Westin Dragonara Resort– Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in St Julian’s and offers 2 private beaches, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, one of which is heated, and 3 restaurants.

Top Marsaxlokk Experiences

Blue Grotto boat tour

Hop on a small boat and glide through striking sea caves with that signature bright turquoise water. Go early in the morning for the best light.

Try this Blue Grotto & Marsaxlokk tour that combines the caves with must see Malta’s famous fishing village.

Mdina walking tour

This medieval ‘Silent City’ comes alive when you know the history behind the alleys, palaces, and fortress walls. A guided tour makes it extra special.

If you want history with a twist, check out this vintage bus tour that covers Mdina, the Blue Grotto, and even includes food.

Three Fortified Cities tour

Step back into Malta’s knightly past by exploring the Three Cities — Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. Fewer crowds than Valletta, but just as much history.

Book it here: Three Fortified Cities tour with boat trip.

Comino & Blue Lagoon cruise

Spend the day swimming in crystal-clear water, lounging on the boat deck, and soaking in Malta’s most famous lagoon. Family-friendly but also romantic at sunset.

You can book a Blue Lagoon day cruise here.

Travel Gear I Never Leave Home Without

• Lightweight backpack

• Portable charger 

• Travel adapter 

• Sunscreen

Want to see everything I pack? Check my full Amazon Travel Shop.

Pro tip: I keep most affiliate links here at the end so my posts stay clean and easy to read — but you’ll always know where to scroll for booking links.

Final Thoughts

Marsaxlokk is a village that feels like stepping back in time — fishing boats bobbing in the harbor, locals selling their catch, and quiet streets to wander. It’s a must on any Malta itinerary, and easy to visit as a day trip.

Like it? Pin it for later!

The post Exploring Marsaxlokk appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

Mdina, or The Silent City, is one of the most popular day trip spots in Malta and it’s easy to see why. This majestic walled city was the capital of Malta for thousands of years until the Order of the Knights of St. John took up residence and moved it, first to Birgu (one of the three cities) and finally to Valletta.

Bucket List for visiting Mdina:

Best time to visit and holidays:

Spring and early summer, April, May, and June are the best time to visit Malta. The weather is not hot (sunny days and the nights are cool) and there are fewer tourists. You’ll able to swim if you don’t mind the slightly cooler waters.

We went at the beginning of April and the weather was PERFECT! The temperature was great for getting out and exploring without being miserable in the heat.

Where to Stay

• Hilton Malta – where we stayed and absolutely loved it. Spacious rooms, amazing views, and great service — perfect for a comfortable base in St. Julian’s.

• Corinthia St. George’s Bay– a resort-style stay right on the water with pools and restaurants, great if you want relaxation with easy access to nightlife.

• The Westin Dragonara Resort– Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in St Julian’s and offers 2 private beaches, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, one of which is heated, and 3 restaurants.

Top Malta Experiences

• Blue Grotto boat tour  – Hop on a small boat and glide through striking sea caves with that signature bright turquoise water. Go early in the morning for the best light.

• Gozo jeep day trip – A fun way to explore Malta’s sister island without worrying about buses or ferries. You’ll cover hidden beaches, Ġgantija Temples, and charming villages in one go.

• Mdina walking tour – This medieval “Silent City” comes alive when you know the history behind the alleys, palaces, and fortress walls. A guided tour makes it extra special.

• Comino & Blue Lagoon cruise – Spend the day swimming in crystal-clear water, lounging on the boat deck, and soaking in Malta’s most famous lagoon. Family-friendly but also romantic at sunset.

Travel Gear I Never Leave Home Without

• Lightweight backpack

• Portable charger 

• Travel adapter 

• Sunscreen

Want to see everything I pack? Check my full Amazon Travel Shop.

Pro tip: I keep most affiliate links here at the end so my posts stay clean and easy to read — but you’ll always know where to scroll for booking links.

The post Exploring the Silent City of Malta Mdina appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

This island quickly became one of our favorite destinations — and here’s why it might steal your heart too!

Why Visit Malta?

Malta has a little bit of everything: history, adventure, beaches, food, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet. It’s the perfect destination whether you’re craving culture or a sunny escape.

We visited in early April and it was chef’s kiss perfect — not too hot, not too crowded, just right for wandering the islands without the summer chaos.

Malta Bucket List

If you’re building your own Malta itinerary, here are some can’t-miss highlights:

Upper & Lower Barrakka Gardens
St. John’s Co-Cathedral
Popeye Village (yes, the movie set!)
Blue Grotto – Take a scenic boat trip through these caves (book your tour here)
Mosta Rotunda
Ġgantija Temples (Gozo) – this jeep tour was so fun! [Gozo day tours]
Casa Rocca Piccola
Fort St. Elmo & The Lascaris War Rooms
Mdina (aka the Silent City) – best explored on a [guided walking tour]
Basilica of Ta’ Pinu
Marsaxlokk Market
Mellieha Beach
Malta National Aquarium
Saluting Battery
Comino Island & the Blue Lagoon ([book a day trip here]

Instagram-Worthy Spots

• Mdina’s Silent City doors and alleys

• The colorful fishing boats in Marsaxlokk

• The Blue Lagoon (Comino)

• Barrakka Gardens views over Valletta’s Grand Harbour

• Popeye Village

When to Go

The sweet spot? April, May, and June. Days are warm and sunny, evenings are cooler, and the crowds haven’t fully descended yet. You can even swim if you don’t mind slightly cooler waters.

We went in April and honestly, it couldn’t have been better. If you’re not a fan of sweltering heat, springtime is the way to go.

Insider Tips Section

• Public transport: Buses are cheap and reliable, but they can be slow — renting a car helps if you want to see Gozo/Comino easily.

• Language: English is widely spoken, but you’ll also hear Maltese everywhere.

• Currency: Euros (€), and card is accepted most places.

• Outlets: UK-style plugs (Type G) — bring an adapter!

Cities & Towns Worth Exploring

• Valletta (the capital — stunning architecture!)

• Mdina (a real-life medieval fairytale)

• Sliema (shopping + sea views)

• Marsaxlokk (famous for colorful fishing boats and market)

• Victoria (Gozo’s main city)

• Mellieha (beach vibes)

• Bugibba & St. Paul’s Bay (coastal fun)

Suggested Itineraries

• 3 days: Valletta + Mdina + Comino – itineraries coming soon!

• 5 days: Add Gozo + Marsaxlokk + Blue Grotto – itineraries coming soon!

What to Eat in Malta

Maltese food is a glorious mashup of Mediterranean flavors with Italian, North African, and British influences. Here are some dishes to hunt down:

Pastizzi – Flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas
Fenek / Fenkata – Rabbit stew or fried rabbit, Malta’s signature dish
Lampuki Pie – A savory fish pie (seasonal, during lampuki migration)
Timpana – Pasta baked inside pastry with rich sauce & cheese
Kapunata – Malta’s ratatouille
Ġbejniet – Goat cheese rounds (fresh or dried)
Ħobż biz-Zejt – Maltese tuna + tomato sandwich
Cisk Lager – Iconic local beer
Kinnie – A bittersweet soft drink (love-it-or-hate-it!)
Imqaret – Fried date pastries
Qagħaq tal-Għasel – Treacle/honey rings
Pulpetti – Maltese-style meatballs

Trust me, you won’t go hungry here.

Cost Breakdown

• Pastizzi snack: €0.50–€1.50

• Meal at midrange restaurant: €15–€25

• Public bus ticket: €2

• Ferry to Gozo: ~€4.65

Cultural/Holiday Highlights

• Carnival in February (bright floats & costumes)

• Holy Week/Easter (traditional processions & figolla pastries)

• Isle of MTV in summer (huge music festival)

Where to Stay

• Hilton Malta – where we stayed and absolutely loved it. Spacious rooms, amazing views, and great service — perfect for a comfortable base in St. Julian’s.

• Corinthia St. George’s Bay– a resort-style stay right on the water with pools and restaurants, great if you want relaxation with easy access to nightlife.

• The Westin Dragonara Resort– Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in St Julian’s and offers 2 private beaches, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, one of which is heated, and 3 restaurants.

Top Malta Experiences

• Blue Grotto boat tour  – Hop on a small boat and glide through striking sea caves with that signature bright turquoise water. Go early in the morning for the best light.

• Gozo jeep day trip – A fun way to explore Malta’s sister island without worrying about buses or ferries. You’ll cover hidden beaches, Ġgantija Temples, and charming villages in one go.

• Mdina walking tour – This medieval “Silent City” comes alive when you know the history behind the alleys, palaces, and fortress walls. A guided tour makes it extra special.

• Comino & Blue Lagoon cruise – Spend the day swimming in crystal-clear water, lounging on the boat deck, and soaking in Malta’s most famous lagoon. Family-friendly but also romantic at sunset.

Travel Gear I Never Leave Home Without

• Lightweight backpack

• Portable charger 

• Travel adapter 

• Sunscreen

Want to see everything I pack? Check my full Amazon Travel Shop.

Pro tip: I keep most affiliate links here at the end so my posts stay clean and easy to read — but you’ll always know where to scroll for booking links.

Final Thoughts

Malta is one of those destinations that offers so much in such a small package — ancient temples, seaside villages, and food you’ll dream about for weeks. Whether you’re exploring historic Valletta, swimming in Gozo, or eating your weight in pastizzi, Malta will absolutely win you over.

Like it? Pin it! If this post was helpful, share it with a friend or save it for later.

The post Exploring Malta: Culture, Coastlines & Culinary Delights 🌊✨ appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

What to Pack (I’ve linked a few of our go-to options):

• A backpack and this one is one of our favorites, we’ve had it for 3 years now and it’s so helpful with the insulated cooler compartment!
• Reusable water bottles
• Comfortable shoes or sandals that can get wet 
• Snacks or lunch (no shops but there is a little cafe inside)
• Bug spray
• Sunscreen
• Light layers (can get chilly under the trees)
• A waterproof camera or phone pouch
• Baby carrier (for little ones)
  
  
  
  Restaurants or Cafés Nearby:
  
  Blue Eye Restaurant: Just near the entrance, this rustic spot serves grilled meats, trout, and fresh local salads. It’s not fancy, but it’s convenient with outdoor seating by the river.
  
  Gjirokastër Restaurants: If you’re combining your visit with Gjirokastër, try Taverna Tradicionale Kardhashi or Kujtimi, both offering delicious traditional Albanian food in beautiful, historic settings.
  
  
  
  
  Instagram-Worthy Tips:
  
  Climb to the wooden platform to capture the full “eye” from above
  
  Take close-ups of the colorful swirls of water with a polarizing filter
  
  Photos are best before 11 AM to avoid harsh shadows
  
  
  
  
  Insider Tip: Combine Your Visit
  
  Pair your visit with a half-day in Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stone rooftops, a medieval castle, and a historic bazaar. You can also combine with the Butrint Ruins if you’re staying in Ksamil.
  
  
  
  
  Visiting with Kids? Here’s What to Know:
  
  The trail is easy, but bring snacks and water
  
  Kids will love the clear streams and forest walk
  
  Don’t let little ones near the main spring edge—it’s slippery
  
  Use a baby carrier or backpack instead of a stroller if possible
  
  The viewing platform has a small fence but still supervise closely
  
  
  
  
  
  Final Thoughts:
  The Blue Eye is one of Albania’s most magical spots—and well worth the short trip from Ksamil or Gjirokastër. Go early, pack smart, and soak in the surreal beauty of this turquoise gem.
  
  You’ll leave with beautiful memories—and photos that don’t even need a filter.

The post How to Visit the Blue Eye of Albania – Complete Guide appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

Quick Look at Our 10-Day Itinerary

Day 1-2: Tirana, Albania

Day 3-5: Ksamil (with day trips to Gjirokastër & The Blue Eye)

Day 6-8: Corfu, Greece

Day 9-10: Drive back to Tirana for one final night


> Travel Tip: We flew into Tirana (from Memmingen, Germany) and rented a car to explore Albania and catch the ferry to Corfu.

Day 1-2: Tirana – Albania’s Lively Capital

Where we stayed: Doanesia Premium Hotel & Spa

Highlights:

Skanderbeg Square

National History Museum

Bunk’Art 2

Dajti Ekspres cable car for epic city views

>Travel tip: Parking in Tirana can be tricky—look for hotels with parking or leave your car and walk.

 

Day 3-5: Ksamil – Beaches & Day Trips to Gjirokastër + Blue Eye

Where we stayed: EMAR Hotel Ksamil

Beaches we loved: Lori Beach, Ksamil Beach 9, and Pasqyra Beach (Mirror Beach)

Day trip highlights:

The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) – Go early for fewer crowds and give yourself plenty of time to explore. They have a nice area to have a snack or even a meal WITH nice bathrooms!

Gjirokastër – UNESCO town with castle views and cobbled alleys that you have to see if you love hidden gems with lots of character! 


> Travel Tip: The drive from Tirana to Ksamil takes about 4-5 hours with stops. Pack snacks and prepare for winding roads!




Day 6-8: Corfu – Greek Island Beauty

Where we stayed: Waves Apartments Harmony Glyfada Corfu

Beaches we loved

Paleokastritsa (great for views + monastery)

Canal d’Amour in Sidari

Glyfada Beach


Must-see

Achilleion Palace

Corfu Old Town

Mon Repos Palace


Food we loved: The Venetian Well, Avli in Corfu Town


> Ferry tip: Take the ferry from Sarandë to Corfu Town. It runs frequently and takes about 30-70 minutes.





Day 9-10: Drive Back to Tirana

Scenic stops on the way back:

Himarë Beach

Porto Palermo Castle


One last night to relax before an early flight home!





How to Make It Happen

Flights:

We flew in/out of Tirana Airport (TIA). Look for budget airlines into Albania or Corfu.


Car Rental

Renting a car in Albania gave us the freedom to explore at our pace. Just check border/ferry policies.


Budget Breakdown

Flights: $100–$200 roundtrip

Accommodation: $50–$100 per night

Rental car: ~$30–40/day

Food: $10–$20 per person per meal, we also ate it a lot during this trip which made things inexpensive.

Ferry: ~$20–30 per person one way.



Why You’ll Love This Trip

It’s a budget-friendly mix of culture and coastline.

You’ll visit two countries with totally different vibes.

Perfect for a mix of beach relaxation and historical exploration.





Things to Pack

Swimsuits, sunscreen (UV can be high even in spring)

Comfortable shoes for castles, cobblestones, and hikes

Travel umbrella or rain jacket (especially in early April)

Portable charger & converter plugs






This trip was truly a dream. Albania surprised us with its raw beauty, kind people, and jaw-dropping coastlines. And Corfu gave us a taste of Greek island magic. If you’re looking for an affordable European escape with turquoise water, delicious food, and family-friendly adventures—this is it.

xoxo Maddie

The post 10-Day Albania and Corfu Itinerary: Beaches, History, Hidden Gems & How to Make It Happen appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

History & Traditions of Venice Carnival

Venice Carnival dates back to the 12th century, when Venetians would celebrate before Lent with masked balls, street performances, and grand feasts. The festival gained popularity during the Renaissance, with nobles and commoners alike disguising themselves behind elaborate masks, allowing them to mingle freely. Today, this centuries-old tradition continues, blending history with modern-day festivities.




Must-Visit Places & Free Things to Do During Carnival

1. St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco)

The heart of Carnival, where you’ll see parades, costume contests, and live performances. Be sure to visit the famous Basilica di San Marco while you’re there!

2. The Grand Canal & Rialto Bridge

Take a stroll along Venice’s main waterway to witness the city’s magical reflections at sunset, along with costumed revelers posing on the iconic Rialto Bridge.

3. The Arsenale Night Show (Free Entry!)

A breathtaking spectacle featuring fireworks, light displays, and acrobatics over the Venetian Lagoon.

4. Campo Santa Margherita & Cannaregio District

These areas have fewer tourists but still offer amazing street performances, live music, and food stalls.

5. Visit the Venetian Mask Shops

Many mask shops in Venice allow you to watch artisans at work for free. Some of the best include Ca’ Macana and Tragicomica.



Best Places to See Extravagant Costumes

Venice Carnival is famous for its breathtaking costumes and masks, and these are the top spots to see the best ones:

St. Mark’s Square – The ultimate costume hotspot! From royalty-inspired outfits to Baroque-era masks, this is where you’ll see the most extravagant ensembles.

Doge’s Palace Courtyard – A gorgeous setting where costumed participants love to pose for photos.

The Grand Masquerade Ball (Ticketed Event) – If you’re willing to splurge, attending a traditional Venetian ball is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.



How to Experience Carnival on a Budget

Not looking to break the bank? Here are some budget-friendly ways to enjoy the Carnival magic:

Skip the expensive balls and enjoy free public performances in St. Mark’s Square.

Buy an affordable mask from local vendors instead of high-end boutiques.

Use a Vaporetto pass for unlimited water bus rides instead of pricey gondolas.

Eat cicchetti (Venetian tapas) at bacari (wine bars) for cheap, delicious food.

Book accommodations early and stay in areas like Mestre for better deals.

Key Dates & Events for Venice Carnival 2025

Opening Ceremony: A grand water parade along the Grand Canal

Best Mask Contest: Daily in St. Mark’s Square

Flight of the Angel: A breathtaking spectacle in Piazza San Marco

Final Parade & Fireworks: A magical way to close the festival!




Final Thoughts

Venice Carnival is a bucket-list event filled with art, history, and pure enchantment. Whether you splurge on a masquerade ball or simply wander the lively streets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a real-life fairytale. Plan ahead, embrace the magic, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in 2025!

xoxo Maddie



Save & Share!

Planning your Venice Carnival trip? Save this guide & tag a friend who needs to experience this iconic festival!

#VeniceCarnival2025 #CarnevaleDiVenezia #VeniceItaly #BucketListTravel #MaskedMagic #VisitVenice

The post Ultimate Guide to Venice Carnival: What to See & Do in 2025 appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

Itinerary
Day 1: Seattle
– Morning: Pike Place Market
– Afternoon: Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass
– Evening: Dinner in the International District

Day 2: Seattle
– Morning: Museum of Pop Culture
– Afternoon: Seattle Art Museum and Waterfront Park
– Evening: Sunset at Kerry Park

Day 3: Mount Rainier National Park
– Full Day: Hiking and exploring the park

Day 4: Olympic National Park
– Full Day: Visit Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rain Forest, and Rialto Beach

Day 5: Tacoma
– Morning: Museum of Glass
– Afternoon: Point Defiance Park and Zoo

Day 6: Spokane
– Morning: Riverfront Park
– Afternoon: Manito Park and Duncan Garden
– Evening: Explore downtown Spokane

Day 7: Leavenworth
– Full Day: Explore the Bavarian-themed village and nearby hiking trails

Top Sites to See

Pike Place Market (Seattle)
One of the oldest continuously operated public farmers’ markets in the U.S., Pike Place Market is a must-visit for its fresh produce, unique crafts, and iconic fish-throwing fishmongers.

Space Needle (Seattle)
An iconic symbol of Seattle, the Space Needle offers stunning views of the city, Mount Rainier, and Puget Sound. Don’t miss the revolving glass floor at the top.

Mount Rainier National Park
Home to the highest peak in the Cascade Range, this park offers breathtaking vistas, wildflower meadows, and diverse wildlife. Popular activities include hiking, climbing, and snowshoeing.

Olympic National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the park features diverse ecosystems ranging from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines. Key spots include Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rain Forest, and Rialto Beach.

Museum of Pop Culture (Seattle)
Founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, this museum is dedicated to contemporary popular culture. It features exhibits on music, science fiction, and more.

Museum of Glass (Tacoma)
This museum showcases contemporary glass art and hosts live glassblowing demonstrations. The Chihuly Bridge of Glass is a stunning pedestrian bridge connecting the museum to downtown Tacoma.

Riverfront Park(Spokane)
Located along the Spokane River, this park offers a variety of attractions including a carousel, SkyRide, and sculptures. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll or picnic.

Leavenworth
This Bavarian-themed village is nestled in the Cascade Mountains. Enjoy the charming architecture, local shops, and nearby outdoor activities like hiking and river rafting.

Looking for hiking ideas

Best Time of Year to Visit

– Spring (April to June): Mild weather and blooming wildflowers make this a great time for outdoor activities.
– Summer (July to September): Ideal for hiking, festivals, and enjoying the coastal areas. Expect warm weather and longer days.
– Fall (October to November): Enjoy beautiful fall foliage and fewer crowds. Great for visiting wineries and harvest festivals.
– Winter (December to March): Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and holiday festivities, especially in the mountains and Leavenworth.

Transportation Options

– Car Rental: The best way to explore Washington’s diverse landscapes. Major rental companies are available at airports and in cities.
– Public Transit: Seattle and other major cities have extensive bus and light rail systems.
– Amtrak: Scenic train routes connect major cities and offer a relaxing way to see the state.
– Ferries: Washington State Ferries are a unique way to explore the Puget Sound and San Juan Islands.

Must-See Instagram Spots

– Kerry Park (Seattle): Offers panoramic views of the Seattle skyline, especially at sunset.
– Snoqualmie Falls: A stunning 268-foot waterfall that’s a popular spot for photos.
– Palouse Falls: Located in southeastern Washington, this dramatic waterfall is surrounded by unique canyon scenery.
– Rialto Beach (Olympic National Park): Known for its rugged coastline, sea stacks, and driftwood.
– Deception Pass Bridge: A picturesque bridge with breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and islands.

Holidays and Events

– Seattle International Film Festival (May-June): One of the largest film festivals in North America.
– Bumbershoot (September): A major arts and music festival held in Seattle.
– Washington State Fair (September): Located in Puyallup, this fair features rides, concerts, and agricultural exhibits.
– Christmas Lighting Festival (December): Held in Leavenworth, this festival transforms the village into a winter wonderland with lights, music, and festivities.

Souvenirs to Purchase

– Seattle Coffee: Grab a bag of beans from one of Seattle’s many renowned coffee roasters.
– Local Wine: Washington is known for its wine, especially from regions like Walla Walla and Yakima Valley.
– Handmade Crafts: Pike Place Market and local boutiques offer unique, handcrafted items.
– Glass Art: Tacoma’s Museum of Glass has a variety of beautiful glass pieces available for purchase.
– Bavarian Goods: In Leavenworth, find unique Bavarian-themed items and locally made goods.

Where to Stay for First-Time Visitors

Seattle: For first-time visitors, staying in downtown Seattle is ideal. You’ll be close to major attractions like Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and the waterfront. The area is also well-connected with public transit, making it easy to explore the city.

Washington State offers a wealth of experiences, from vibrant city life to serene natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a week-long adventure or a quick getaway, this guide will help you make the most of your visit. Enjoy your trip!

The post Top things to do when visiting Washington State! appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

Location: Snoqualmie Falls, Snoqualmie, WA 98024, United States

AllTrails Link Here

History: 1.4-mile out-and-back trail is generally considered an easy route. This is a very popular area for hiking and walking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring and taking selfies.

Things to do: Snoqualmie Falls is one of Washington state’s most popular scenic attractions. More than 1.5 million visitors come to the Falls every year! There are lots of restaurants to visit while at the falls. Some of the more popular ones are:

Looking for more hiking ideas? Check out these other hikes in the PNW!

The post Snoqualmie Falls in Washington State appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

Location: 110 Deschutes Way SW, Tumwater, WA 98501, United States

AllTrails Link Here

History: Experience this 0.9-mile loop trail near Olympia, Washington. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 21 min to complete. This is a very popular area for running and walking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring.

Things to do: Riverside nature park on 15 acres with trails, cascades, lawns & a children’s play area. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime but check ahead for closures. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Looking for more hiking ideas? Check out these other hikes in the PNW!

The post Can’t miss this beautiful hike at Tumwater Falls! appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

Sequalitchew Creek Trail

Best time to visit Washington State?

The July–September high season is the best time for warm, dry days. July and August are the warmest and driest months in Washington and its high season.

I highly suggest checking Washington State Fair if you are able to! Their main fair is in September and they do also have a Spring Fair in April.

Source Washington State Fair

If you are looking for more of the typical touristy things to do I would suggest check out out the Seattle City Pass for great savings!

Looking for more hiking ideas? Check out these other hikes in the PNW!

The post Free Things to do in Washington State! appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.