We like to say “the best time to visit is all the time.” Hole up in a coffee shop on a cozy drizzly day. That’s part of the experience! Locals are fully adapted to the rain and temperate weather, but you might prefer the sun. If you’re looking for a dry and sunny outdoorsy experience, visit between May and October.

While you’re here be sure to visit the Boeing Future of Flight Museum and take the Boeing Factory Tour. You can’t miss the seaside beauty of Edmonds, Mukilteo, or the Port of Everett. The Hibulb Cultural Center offers an interpretive journey through the culture of the indigenous Tulalip People. And, yes, we’ve got all the PNW hikes your boots can handle.

As the classic song says, “It’s up to you... what’s your pleasure?” We have seaside hotels and downtown luxury hotels. But it’s also worth noting that we have over 650 cabins to rent in our neck of the woods. (You read that right.) May we recommend finding solace in the woods?

Snohomish County has the freshest of seafood, usually sourced right from the waters of the Salish Sea. There’s no shortage of classic PNW coffee to be sipped. We also offer many plant-based options (vegetarian and vegan) to conscientious visitors. There are many local breweries, distilleries, and even wineries if you’re into adult beverages.

Whale watching ahoy! The best time to glimpse a cetacean is from March to May. Sign up for a guided whale watching tour in Edmonds, where a whale sighting is guaranteed or the next expedition is free. Or, if you're very patient, you can glimpse them from the shores of Mukilteo, Jetty Island, or Port Susan.

If you like big-name brands, check out the Seattle Premium Outlets, Everett Mall, or Alderwood Mall. If you prefer patronizing small-town local businesses, visit the downtowns of Arlington, Everett, Edmonds, Snohomish, and Monroe. Check out our full shopping guide here.

Get up. Grab a local coffee. Explore the seaside or the mountains. Eat at a local restaurant. Catch live music. See some art. Drink an IPA. Or whatever. You don’t need us to tell you what to do. It’s your jam!

We have a full list of upcoming events right here.

There frequently are. Many natural parks and recreational areas require a Discover Pass for parking, which you can purchase online or at designated retail locations. Some Snohomish County Parks require a day-use pass. They are good for one year from the date of purchase and cover both the boat launch and day-use areas. Most museums offer free admission at least one day a month. Free entry days vary quite a bit from location to location, so if you’re looking to visit a popular attraction, be sure to check their website first to see what sort of deals they’re offering and when.

We have the sea, lakes, and rivers. Plenty of water. Be sure to practice water safety at all times. Same with hiking or climbing mountains: know the basic rules and respect your limits. No need to be a hero or end up on the news. There are areas in the backcountry without cell service, so it pays to download a map before heading into the woods. Tell someone where you’re going. Know water safety basics before approaching water. Be careful on wet roads – we get a lot of rain. Like, a lot. Never approach a bigfoot in the wild.

Most folks dress “West Coast casual” here. If you’re not here for business and you’re wearing a suit and tie, you may get some funny looks. Think more along the lines of flannels, jeans, sneakers. The “Seattle freeze” is also a thing. Folks aren’t being rude if they don’t greet you with enthusiasm. We’re just not overly emotive with strangers, thanks in part to a history steeped in Scandanavian stoicism.

English is the primary language, but Spanish is also widely spoken. That being said, our county is home to many populations and there are many languages spoken here. You don’t need to know the English language, but Google Translate is recommended if you want to travel with ease.

We use US Dollars (USD). Most any bank will be able to do a currency exchange, especially if you come bearing Canadian currency.

Check out the Imagine Children’s Museum in Everett. If your kiddo likes STEM activities, visit the Future of Flight Museum. The best indoor trampoline parks are Altitude in Marysville and Flying Squirrel in Everett. We are blessed with many pet-friendly hiking spots as well as off-leash dog parks. A simple Google search should get you what you need. The best dog-friendly bar is Sound 2 Summit Brewing in Everett.

Enjoy art at the Schack Art Center or the Cascadia Art Museum. Enjoy retail therapy at Alderwood Mall or the Everett Mall. Hit up an indoor trampoline park. Oh yeah, and be sure to grab a bite.

Visit like you live here. Leave no trace. Pack out your garbage. Take advantage of our regional transportation. Support hyperlocal businesses that make up the character of our communities.

We have great cell service in most parts of the county. However, the rural areas near the mountains lack cell service and/or have spotty reception. Plan accordingly.