40 Best Things to do in Everett!

Everett in Washington, is a hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest that offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and a welcoming small-town feel. Located just 25 miles north of Seattle, Everett sits on the shores of Puget Sound, providing stunning waterfront views and access to outdoor adventures. From exploring the historic downtown to enjoying the scenic parks, this city has plenty to offer. In this guide, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Everett during your visit to Washington.

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1. Historic Attractions

Everett’s Historic District

The Everett’s Historic District highlights the city’s past through well-preserved architecture and landmarks. The district includes historic neighborhoods like Rucker/Grand, Norton/Grand, and Riverside, each featuring homes built in the early 20th century with architectural styles such as Craftsman, Tudor, and Colonial Revival. Many of these homes were constructed during a period when affordable housing was a priority, and some were Sears kit houses, shipped by rail and assembled on-site. Walking tours allowing visitors to explore the area while hearing stories about the families who shaped Everett.

Historic Everett Theatre

The Historic Everett Theatre has a rich history, hosting everything from vaudeville acts and silent films to live concerts. Over the years, it has welcomed famous performers, including Helen Keller, John Philip Sousa, and Nat King Cole. The building has undergone renovations while adding modern upgrades, ensuring a comfortable experience for visitors. Today, the theater offers a variety of events, including live music, film screenings, and stand-up comedy. The venue is known for monthly comedy nights, featuring nationally recognized comedians from platforms like Netflix, HBO, and Comedy Central.

Everett Museum of History

The Everett Museum of History is temporarily housed in a historic 1914 home while renovations continue at its future location, formerly the Everett Daily Herald newspaper building. Exhibits feature artifacts, photographs, and documents that showcase Everett’s history, including displays on notable figures like Senator Henry M. Jackson, who played a key role in national policy. Visitors can admire period furniture and architectural details that preserve the charm of the Van Valey House. It offers educational programs and interactive displays to engage visitors and understanding the city’s heritage.

Snohomish County Courthouse

The Snohomish County Courthouse is a key government building that serves as the center for legal proceedings in the county. The building is home to Superior Court and District Court, where judges oversee hearings and trials. Visitors can access services related to name changes, small claims, domestic violence protection orders, and other legal matters. The courthouse has a long history, with its original structure dating back to the early 20th century, though renovations have modernized the space. Public access is available for most trials and hearings, allowing residents to observe legal proceedings.

Paine Field (Historic Aircraft Exhibit)

Nearby Seattle, Paine Field covers 1,315 acres and has a long history dating back to 1936. Originally built by the Works Progress Administration, it was later used for military operations before transitioning into a hub for aviation and manufacturing. The airport is also a major site for Boeing’s aircraft assembly, where planes like the 747, 767, 777, and 787 are built. Visitors can explore aviation attractions such as the Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour, the Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum, and the Museum of Flight Restoration Center, making it a great stop for aviation enthusiasts.

Everett Waterfront

Located near Port Gardner Bay, Everett Waterfront is home to the Port of Everett, which offers walking trails, parks, and public art displays. Visitors can explore Jetty Island, a sandy beach accessible by boat, perfect for picnics and kite flying. The waterfront has several dining options, including Anthony’s HomePort and Scuttlebutt Brewing, where guests can enjoy fresh seafood and local craft beer. The area also hosts seasonal events, such as outdoor concerts, art festivals, and car shows. The Everett Marina is one of the largest marinas on the West Coast region, offering both boat rentals and moorage.

Alderwood Manor Heritage Association

The Alderwood Manor Heritage Association preserves the history of Alderwood Manor and its transformation over the years. The area was originally developed by the Puget Mill Company in 1917, with a 30 acres Demonstration Farm that helped settlers learn how to raise chickens and grow crops. The museum features exhibits on the Seattle-Everett Interurban Railway, which once connected the community to nearby cities, and the impact of the Great Depression on local farms. It also hosts educational programs, walking tours, and community events, allowing visitors to engage with local history.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Everett Marina

The Everett Marina is a lively destination for boating, fishing, and waterfront activities, making it a popular spot for visitors. The Port of Everett Marina, the largest public marina on the West Coast, offers 2,300 permanent boat slips and 5,000 feet of guest moorage, allowing boaters to dock and explore nearby restaurants, shops, and walking trails. The marina hosts farmers markets, art shows, and fishing derbies, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the year. Visitors can charter a fishing boat or a whale-watching cruise, or take a ferry to Jetty Island, known for its sandy beaches and wildlife.

Jetty Island

The Jetty Island is a 2 miles long, human-made island serves as a breakwater for the Port of Everett Marina, but it has also become one of the best beach destinations in the region. Unlike many beaches in the Pacific Northwest, Jetty Island has soft sand, making it a great spot for families and kiteboarders. Ferry reservations are required, with tickets priced between $3 and $5 per person, while children under two ride for free. Those with personal boats, kayaks, or paddleboards can visit anytime. The island is home to wildlife, including migratory birds and ghost shrimp, which create burrows in the sand.

Forest Park

Covering 197 acres of wooded trails, picnic areas, and recreational spaces, Forest Park offers a mix of outdoor activities, making it a great spot for families, hikers, and nature lovers. Visitors can explore 4.9 miles of trails, including a self-guided nature tour and hill climb courses, providing a chance to enjoy the forest landscape. It features a water playground for kids, tennis courts, and basketball courts for adults and seasonal events, offering fun options for all ages. The park was originally developed in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration, and some of its historic structures remain today.

Snohomish River Trail

The Snohomish River Trail is a planned regional trail that will connect Everett to Snohomish, offering a scenic route along the river. The project is being developed by Snohomish County Parks in partnership with the City of Everett, creating a 5.5 miles east-west link between the Centennial Trail South extension and the Interurban Trail. Designed for walking, biking, and nature exploration, the trail will provide visitors with an enjoyable outdoor experience. Community has shaped plans to include shade areas, picnic spots, exercise stations, and wildlife preservation efforts, to improve the surroundings.

Picnic Point Park

Located along the Puget Sound, Picnic Point Park offering a scenic setting for picnicking and beach outings. Visitors can enjoy picnic tables and charcoal cookers, making it a great place for a meal by the water. It features a large pedestrian overpass, providing easy access to the beach and picnic areas. Sunset viewing is a favorite activity, with stunning views of Whidbey Island and the Olympic Mountains in the distance. Wildlife watching is also popular, as the area is home to seabirds and marine life. Visitors should stay within park boundaries and avoid trespassing on private property north of the park.

Hiking Trails

Everett offers a variety of hiking trails that allow visitors to explore nature while staying close to the city. Pigeon Creek Trail is a scenic waterfront path with views of the Port of Everett and the Puget Sound, making it a great spot for a peaceful walk. Japanese Gulch Loop Trail in nearby Mukilteo takes hikers through dense forests where they might spot woodpeckers and deer. Centennial Trail Pilchuck Trailhead in Snohomish connects to a larger regional trail system, making it ideal for biking and extended hikes.

Langus Riverfront Park features a 3 miles paved trail along the Snohomish River, perfect for jogging, walking, or birdwatching. Howarth Park offers short walking paths with stunning water views and access to a quiet beach. Meadowdale Beach Park provides a mix of forested trails and beach access, making it a favorite for nature lovers. Old Robe Canyon Trail takes hikers through a historic railway route with scenic canyon views. Mount Pilchuck Lookout offers a challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views at the summit.

Kayaking and Canoeing

Everett is a great place for kayaking and canoeing, offering scenic waterways and easy access to the Puget Sound. The Port of Everett is a popular launch spot, with rentals available through KayakShare.com, making it simple for visitors to get on the water. Jetty Island is another favorite destination, known for its sandy beaches and shallow waters, perfect for paddling. Nearby Snohomish River provides a chance for visitors to explore scenic route and see local wildlife along the shore. Whidbey Island Kayaking provides specialized tours, including birdwatching and nighttime bioluminescent paddles.

Golfing Courses

Everett has some great golf courses for players of all skill levels. Everett Golf & Country Club is a private course that has been around since 1910, offering a well-maintained course along with dining and swimming facilities. Legion Memorial Golf Course is a public 18-hole championship course with scenic views and a restaurant on-site. Walter Hall Golf Course is another public option, providing a relaxed setting for golfers looking for a casual round. Additionally, there are several other courses within a short drive, including Harbour Pointe Golf Club in Mukilteo and Mill Creek Country Club in Mill Creek.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Boeing Future of Flight

The Boeing Future of Flight offers a behind-the-scenes look at Boeing’s aircraft production and the history of aviation. The highlight is the Boeing Everett Factory Tour, where visitors can see the assembly lines for planes like the 777 and 787 Dreamliner. The facility features an Aerospace Gallery, showcasing interactive exhibits that explore the evolution of flight and future innovations. Visitors can climb the Sky Deck and enjoy panoramic views, which overlooks Paine Field and the Boeing factory. It collaborates with experts from aerospace field and guides to provide insights into aircraft engineering.

Cascadia Art Museum

The Cascadia Art Museum focuses on artwork created between 1860 and 1970, highlighting artists who shaped the region’s cultural identity. Opened in 2015 and features a collection of over 200 works, including paintings, sculptures, and design pieces. Exhibits rotate throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to see different styles and themes. The museum is known for showcasing under-rated artists, including women and minority creators whose contributions have often been overlooked. It hosts educational programs, lectures, and special events, making it a perfect for learning and engagement.

Museum of Flight Restoration Center

The Museum of Flight Restoration Center is a fascinating place where historic aircraft are carefully restored to their original condition. This 23,000 square-foot facility serves as a working hangar where the staff dedicate thousands of hours to preserve aviation history. The center houses a variety of aircraft, some dating back to World War II, while others showcase the evolution of commercial and military aviation. Guided tours allow visitors to walk through the hangar and see restoration projects in progress, with experts working on planes that will be later displayed at the main Museum of Flight.

Blackman House Museum

The Blackman House Museum is a historic home that tells the story of the Blackman family, who played a key role in lumber industry by establishing a sawmill that helped shape the town’s economy. The house was built in 1878 by Hyrcanus Blackman, one of four brothers who moved from Maine to Snohomish in search of new opportunities. It preserves the family’s legacy through period furnishings, photographs, and artifacts, offering visitors a glimpse into life in the late 19th century. One of the most interesting pieces is a piano that the family brought from Maine, which still sits in the front room.

Schack Art Center

The Schack Art Center was founded in 1974 and has grown into a leading arts hub between Seattle and Vancouver B.C. The facility features five galleries, showcasing contemporary art that explores themes of social justice, diverse cultures, and non-traditional art forms. One of the highlights is the public glassblowing hot shop, where visitors can watch artists create stunning glass pieces. The center also hosts seasonal events, including Schacktoberfest, Fresh Paint, and Artists’ Garage Sale. The on-site Gallery Store offers locally made jewelry, ceramics, textiles, and prints from Pacific Northwest artists.

Lynwood Convention Center

The Lynnwood Convention Center is a modern venue designed for conventions, trade shows, weddings, and business meetings. The center offers 53,985 square feet of flexible event space, making it a popular choice for gatherings of all sizes. Opened in 2005, the facility was built to provide a professional setting for corporate and community events. It features ballrooms, meeting rooms, and exhibit spaces, all equipped with advanced technology to support presentations and conferences. The venue hosts a variety of events every year, including art exhibits, business seminars, and cultural celebrations.

Mukilteo Lighthouse Park

The Mukilteo Lighthouse Park is a beautiful waterfront destination that offers stunning views of Puget Sound and Whidbey Island. It is home to the historic Mukilteo Light Station, which has been guiding ships since 1906. Visitors can explore the lighthouse, which is open for tours on weekends, and learn about its history through exhibits managed by the Mukilteo Historical Society. The park spans 14.4 acres and features walking paths, picnic areas, and a sandy beach, making it a great spot for families and nature lovers. The park has a public boat launch, providing easy access for kayakers and boaters.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Imagine Children’s Museum

The Imagine Children’s Museum offers hands-on exhibits that encourage creativity, exploration, and problem-solving. The museum features a three-story expansion, adding new play areas and interactive exhibits that focus on science, art, and engineering. The Puget Sound Ecosystem Gallery showcases marine life, while the Tinker Shop lets children use real tools under supervision. The museum has a rooftop playground, giving kids a chance to play outdoors. Special programs include art workshops, STEM activities, and sensory-friendly play sessions, making it accessible to children and adults.

Snohomish Aquatic Center

The Snohomish Aquatic Center offers a competition pool, recreation pool, and FlowRider surf simulator, making it a popular spot. The competition pool hosts swim meets, lap swimming, and diving lessons, while the recreation pool provides a space for open swim and water play. The FlowRider lets visitors to try indoor surfing, and the center offers swim lessons, water fitness classes, and private rentals, making it a versatile venue for learning and leisure. Seasonal programs include summer swim camps, themed swim nights and diving lessons, giving kids and adults a chance to improve their skills.

Angel of the Winds Arena

The Angel of the Winds Arena has hosted a variety of performances, including Disney on Ice, the Harlem Globetrotters, and major concerts. It is home to the Everett Silvertips, a Western Hockey League team, and has hosted Skate America, an international figure skating competition. The arena offers public skating sessions, hockey games, and private event rentals, making it a versatile space for entertainment. Seasonal events, including monster truck shows and comedy tours, bring fresh entertainment. Visitors can find food and drink options inside the venue, for those traveling from out of town.

High Trek Adventures

The High Trek Adventures offers a ropes course, ziplining, laser tag, axe throwing, and mini golf. The three-level ropes course has over 60 elements and six zip lines, making it a great challenge for visitors. There is also a Cadet Course for younger climbers, designed for kids ages 4 to 8. The park hosts birthday parties, corporate events, and summer camps, providing a variety of experiences for groups. Visitors can enjoy the climbing wall, test their skills at axe throwing, or play a round of 18-hole mini golf. The ropes courses and zip lines offer a thrilling ride with great views of the surrounding area.

Village Theatre

The Village Theatre is home to Mainstage productions, offering a mix of musicals, plays, and original works. It operates inside the Everett Performing Arts Center, a space that also hosts community events, film festivals, and concerts. Since 1998, Village Theatre providing professional performances and supporting both local and regional artists. Visitors can enjoy a variety of shows, from classic Broadway productions to new works developed through the theatre’s New Works Program. It also runs KIDSTAGE, a youth education program that helps young performers develop their skills through classes.

Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park

The Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park offers a variety of attractions, including trampolines, climbing walls, mini golf, battle beams, and an arcade. The trampoline area has open jump zones, dodgeball courts, and foam pits, making it a great place for active play. Visitors can test their skills on the climbing walls, enjoy a round of mini golf, or challenge friends in the arcade, while dodgeball courts provide a fun way to compete with friends. The park has a café, offering snacks and drinks for those taking a break from activities. Special events, like birthday parties and group outings, can be booked in advance.

5. Natural Attractions

Narbeck Wetland Sanctuary

Covering 42.76 acres, Narbeck Wetland Sanctuary offers a quiet escape for visitors looking to enjoy the outdoors. The sanctuary has two walking trails, which includes a small loop trail and a 1.5 miles moderate trail, both has information signs and guided tours available. The boardwalk trail allows visitors to walk through the wetlands, offering close-up views of birds and native plants. The park’s viewpoints overlooking open water habitats that attract waterfowl. The sanctuary was created as part of a wetland mitigation project to preserve natural habitats while allowing for development in the area.

American Legion Memorial Park

Overlooking Port Gardner Bay, American Legion Memorial Park offering a scenic backdrop for visitors. One of the highlights is the Hibulb Lookout, a viewpoint that honors the Snohomish People, who once lived in the area. The park has walking trails, picnic areas, and sports facilities, including tennis courts, a baseball field, and a pickleball court. Families can enjoy the playground, while nature lovers can explore the Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens, which features themed gardens and sculptures. Interpretive signs showcase the connection to Hibulb Village, an important site for trade and leadership.

Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens

The Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens is part of American Legion Memorial Park and has been open since 1963. It features ten themed gardens, including a Japanese Maple Grove, Rock Garden, and Northwest Native Plant Garden, each offering a unique landscape. Visitors can walk along quiet paths, sit on benches, and take in the beauty of the well-maintained gardens. It hosts educational programs, gardening workshops, and seasonal events, helping people learn more about plants and landscaping. Interpretive signs provide information about native plants and sustainable gardening practices.

Lowell Park

The Lowell Park is a 10 acres park offers a mix of open spaces and recreational facilities. Visitors can enjoy basketball courts, pickleball courts, tennis courts, and a playground, making it a great spot for families and sports lovers. The park has picnic tables, providing convenience for those spending time outdoors. The large open field is perfect for casual games, picnics, or simply relaxing in nature. The park was established in 1964 and has been a community favorite ever since. The park’s trails provide a scenic route for walkers and joggers. Families often visit for weekend outings and group activities.

Japanese Gulch Conservation Area

The Japanese Gulch Conservation Area was once home to Japanese millworkers who lived and worked nearby. It is a network of trails that offers hiking, biking, and nature walks. The 4 miles trail system leads through forests, streams, and along railroad tracks, providing a mix of easy and moderate paths. Visitors can spot woodpeckers and black-tailed deer, making it a great place for wildlife watching. The area was saved from development in 2014, when the people worked together to preserve it as a public space. The trails can be muddy in wet weather, so proper footwear is recommended.

Camping Sites

Everett has several great camping spots for those looking to enjoy the outdoors. Lakeside RV Park is a convenient option with full hook-up sites, laundry facilities, and showers, making it a comfortable place for RV travelers. Lake Connor Park, located northeast of Everett, offers a peaceful camping experience near the Cascade Mountains, with scenic views and access to nature trails. Harbour Pointe RV Park provides a simple setup with full hook-ups, making it a good choice for those passing through the area.

Maple Grove RV Resort is a well-maintained luxury RV park with large sites, power hook-ups, and amenities like cable TV and Wi-Fi. For those looking for tent camping, Flowing Lake Park & Campground is a great spot just a few miles from Everett, offering lake access and wooded campsites. Camano Island State Park campground is another option, offering waterfront camping with beautiful views and beach access. Everett’s camping sites range from full-service RV parks to nature retreats, making it easy to find a spot that fits different camping styles.

6. Day Trips & Excursions

Olympic National Park

Planning a day trip to Olympic National Park takes around 3 hours from Everett, as the park has over 600 miles of trails, making it a great destination for hikers. Inside the park, visitors can explore Hurricane Ridge, which offers stunning mountain views and hiking trails. Another must-see spot is Lake Crescent, a deep blue lake surrounded by forests, perfect for kayaking or a picnic. The Hoh Rainforest is a unique part of the park, with moss-covered trees and easy walking trails. For those who love the coast, Ruby Beach is a great place to see rugged coastline with sea stacks and driftwood-covered shores.

Mount Pilchuck State Park

From Everett, a day trip to Mount Pilchuck State Park is about 34 miles and takes around 1 hour drive, making it a great way to experience the outdoors. The main attraction is the Mount Pilchuck Trail, a 2.7 miles hike that leads to a historic fire lookout at the summit. The trail is steep and rocky, but the reward is a 360-degree view of Mount Baker, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic Mountains. The park is open year-round, but the trail is often covered in snow until early summer. Visitors are required to be prepared and have a Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass for entering the park.

Snoqualmie Falls

Located about 51 miles from Everett, a day trip to Snoqualmie Falls takes around one hour drive and is a great way to experience one of the state’s most famous natural landmarks. Snoqualmie Falls is a 270 foot waterfall, attracting over 1.5 million visitors each year. The site includes a two acres park, observation deck, and gift shop, making it easy to explore. The Salish Lodge & Spa, located near the falls, offers dining and relaxation options for those looking to extend their visit. Visitors can walk along short trails leading to viewpoints including hydroelectric museum, providing great photo opportunities.

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is about 100 miles from Everett, and driving there takes around 3 hours. The best way to get there is by car, following Highway 2 or Highway 20, both offering scenic routes along the way. The forest covers over 1.7 million acres, with hiking trails, waterfalls, and alpine lakes. Popular spots include Heather Meadows, known for its wildflowers and and Artist Point, which offers breathtaking scenery of Mt. Baker. The Baker Lake Trail is a great option for an easy hike along the water, while Park Butte Lookout provides a more challenging climb with rewarding views.

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Planning a day trip to Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest is about 120 miles from Everett, and driving there takes around 3 hours, following Highway 2 or Highway 97, both offering beautiful views along the way. The forest covers over 4 million acres, with popular spots include Lake Wenatchee, a peaceful lake surrounded by mountains, and Icicle Creek, known for its hiking trails and wildlife. The White Pass Scenic Byway is a great drive, offering stunning views and access to Rimrock Lake. Visitors can explore campgrounds, picnic areas, and fishing spots, making it a perfect spot for outdoor activities.

How to Reach Everett

If you prefer driving, take Interstate 5, which connects Everett to Seattle in the south and Vancouver in Canada. From Seattle, the drive takes about 30 to 45 minutes, while from Vancouver, it takes around 2.5 hours. Travelers coming from the east can take Highway 2, which offers scenic views of the Cascade Mountains. The Amtrak Cascades train route links Everett with cities like Seattle and Portland, providing a relaxing journey along the coast, while the Sounder Train runs between Seattle and Everett, offering views of Puget Sound.

Several bus services, including Everett Transit, Community Transit, and Greyhound, provide routes to and from the city. The nearest major airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), about 40 miles south of Everett, with rental car and shuttle options that take around 45 minutes. For a closer option, Paine Field (PAE) in Everett offers commercial flights from select cities, providing a less crowded airport experience. Everett has a well-connected transit system, making it easy to get around once you arrive.

Local Transportation

Everett has a well-connected transport system that makes it easy to get around. Everett Transit provides local bus service, covering key areas in the city with affordable fares and reliable schedules. For regional travel, Community Transit offers routes connecting Everett to nearby cities like Seattle and Lynnwood. The Sounder Train runs between Everett and Seattle, providing a scenic and comfortable ride along Puget Sound. Amtrak stops at Everett Station, linking the city to destinations like Portland and Spokane.

Taxis and rideshare services, including Everett Taxi & Airport Shuttle, operate throughout the city, offering convenient options for quick trips. For those who prefer biking, Everett has designated bike lanes and trails, making cycling a practical way to explore the area5. The city also has a scooter-sharing program, allowing visitors and residents to rent electric scooters for short trips. Parking is available in downtown Everett, with both free and paid options depending on the location.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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