Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

Nature preserve · Thurston County

1

@cntraveler

"The place where the Nisqually River, which begins on Mount Rainier, empties into Puget Sound is a protected region open to birdwatchers and casual hikers. This open plain is a river delta, dry or flooded depending on the season. Fortunately, the refuge has elevated wooden platforms that allow access year-round, with views of the various waterfowl that pass through: more than 200 species, from bald eagles to great horned owls. Four miles of flat trails wind through the refuge. Don't miss the Puget Sound Viewing Platform, farthest out into the delta, where whales can be spotted by keen-eyed observers. Located just off I-5 near Olympia, the refuge is an ideal spot in a Seattle-to- Portland drive; a quick detour yet instant entry into the rich biodiversity of the Pacific Northwest." - Hannah Kirshner, Allison Williams

13 Best Hikes in Seattle | Condé Nast Traveler
Elizabeth Lara/Getty

100 Brown Farm Rd NE, Olympia, WA 98516 Get directions

fws.gov

1 Postcard

See full details

More Places For You

Cozy Vale Creamery

Dairy farm · Thurston County

Nestled in the scenic hills of Tenino, Cozy Vale Creamery is a charming, grass-fed dairy where happy cows and exceptional raw milk are lovingly tended by a dedicated owner.

1 Postcard

Tony's Bakery

Bakery · Columbia City

Nestled near Othello Station, this vibrant bakery and deli serves up some of Seattle's best bánh mì on freshly baked baguettes alongside a tempting selection of Asian pastries and prepared dishes.

14 Postcards

Simply Soulful

Soul food restaurant · Central Area

Simply Soulful is a charming new gem in Seattle’s Central District, serving up hearty soul food classics like fried chicken and shrimp & grits in a cozy, sunlit space adorned with local art.

7 Postcards

Musang

Filipino restaurant · Beacon Hill

Musang serves up vibrant Filipino comfort food with a PNW twist, crafting a cozy atmosphere where standout dishes and seasonal cocktails shine.

55 Postcards

Mojito

Latin American restaurant · Roosevelt

Mojito is a vibrant Maple Leaf gem serving Cuban, Colombian, and Venezuelan favorites, where the lively atmosphere and friendly owner make every meal feel like a fiesta.

9 Postcards

JuneBaby

Southern restaurant (US) · Ravenna

Classic Southern fare made with heirloom ingredients is served in a stylish locale with cocktails.

26 Postcards

Le Pichet

French restaurant · Pike Place Market

Experience the charm of a cozy French bistro in Seattle, serving classic dishes like slow-roasted chicken and indulgent desserts in a delightful atmosphere.

16 Postcards

Kona Kitchen - Seattle

Hawaiian restaurant · Maple Leaf

This laid-back Hawaiian gem serves up generous plate lunches and treats like spam musubi and guava cake, all while fostering a chill, family-friendly vibe—complete with weekend karaoke.

8 Postcards

Matcha Man Ice Cream & Taiyaki

Ice cream shop · Georgetown

Nestled in Georgetown, Matcha Man serves up delectable taiyaki filled with unique ice cream flavors like matcha and ube, making every visit a sweet adventure.

6 Postcards

The Dock Sports Bar & Grill

Sports bar · Fremont

This Fremont American bar & grill is the go-to spot for catching games with friends, featuring tasty pub grub, a lively vibe, and plenty of TVs.

2 Postcards