Things To Do
in Snohomish
Snohomish, Washington is a charming river town just northeast of Seattle, known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and a lively antique scene. The downtown waterfront area along the Snohomish River offers a compact, walkable core with cafes, shops, and seasonal markets. Nestled at the foothills of the Cascades, Snohomish serves as a gateway for nature day trips and small-town culture.
Visitors enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, easy strolls, and plenty of photo-worthy heritage charm year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a stroll down Historic First Street, lined with charming shops and cafes. Stop by the local bakery for a fresh pastry and coffee while enjoying the quaint surroundings. Visit the Snohomish Historical Society for a glimpse into the town's rich past.
After browsing the shops, grab a leisurely lunch at a local eatery offering farm-to-table dishes. Spend your afternoon at the Snohomish River Park, where you can enjoy a scenic walk along the river or have a picnic under the trees. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and beautiful greenery.
As the sun sets, head to a nearby restaurant with outdoor seating for a relaxing dinner experience. Sample some local craft beers or wines while soaking in the beautiful views of the river. End the evening by catching live music at one of Snohomish's cozy venues.
Begin your day by driving to the nearby Centennial Trail, a scenic pathway perfect for walking or biking. Enjoy the crisp morning air as you traverse through beautiful landscapes and lush greenery. Bring along binoculars for spotting local bird species and enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Stop for lunch at a local café along the trail, savoring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Afterward, continue your journey to a nearby viewpoint for stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Spend some time taking photographs and appreciating the breathtaking scenery.
Return to Snohomish and unwind with a meal at a farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes local ingredients. Share stories of your day’s adventures over dinner while enjoying the warmth of the local community. Consider visiting a local art gallery to engage with local artists and their creations.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🛏️Hotel or motel per night | $120-180 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-5 |
| 🎟️Movie or event ticket | $10-16 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming historic core with antique shops and cafes
- Compact, walkable downtown with river views and markets
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable; plan for outdoor options accordingly
Places to Visit in Snohomish
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful 19th-century storefronts, quaint brick sidewalks, and preserved facades make for classic heritage photography in morning or golden-hour light.
Open river views, promenades, and calming water scenes—great for reflections and sunset shots.
Old bridges and vantage points along the Snohomish River offer scenic angles of water, trees, and town life.
Food in Snohomish
Snohomish Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh salmon with local greens on crusty bread, a common offering at downtown cafes and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Seasonal pies featuring WA-grown berries and apples, a staple at bakeries and cafés in town.
A fresh salad built with locally grown greens, seasonal vegetables, and a light vinaigrette.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with local produce, baked goods, ready-to-eat treats, and crafts from nearby farms.
Seasonal food trucks and temporary stalls offering a rotating mix of quick bites near the riverfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite in queues and stores; speak at moderate volumes in public spaces; say please and thank you, and hold doors for others.
Tipping is customary for service workers in restaurants and bars; follow standard U.S. expectations.
Safety
Tipping in Snohomish
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% before tax is standard for good service. For counters or quick-service, tipping is appreciated but not always required. Bartenders typically expect 15-20% as well.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common in many shops and cafes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, dry days with long daylight hours; ideal for outdoor markets, riverfront walks, and sunset photography. Bring a hat and water for hikes, and expect weekend crowds in the downtown area.
Mild to cool temperatures with colorful foliage; great for scenic drives and forest hikes. Expect increased rainfall and keep layers handy for variable weather.
Cool and wet with occasional snow; cozy cafes and indoor galleries are good bets. Shorter daylight hours mean earlier planning for outdoor photos.
Mild and blossoming with fresh produce; markets reopen and outdoor seating returns. Bring a light rain jacket for occasional showers.
Snohomish at Night
Hiking in Snohomish
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular forest trail with multiple viewpoints of a cascading waterfall; suitable for a range of hikers.
Scenic loop featuring a lake and surrounding forest; accessible for most hikers and families.
Steeper climb to a historic fire lookout with panoramic views of the surrounding Cascades; longer day hike.
Airports
How to reach Snohomish by plane.
Major international gateway about 25-40 miles southwest; frequent intercity and international flights with connections to major hubs.
Smaller regional airport closer to Snohomish, serving domestic flights and general aviation; convenient for quick trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly town with good schools, parks, and community events.
A calm, small-town atmosphere with accessible services and social clubs.
Residents who travel to nearby cities for work, often using US-2 and commuter services.
Entrepreneurs and remote workers who enjoy the town’s cafes, galleries, and outdoor recreation.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local school and community leagues; ample fan support and family-friendly games in the region.
Popular outdoor activities that attract locals and visitors to the surrounding Cascades and Snohomish River area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Snohomish.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many downtown spots offer salads, veggie sandwiches, seasonal vegetables, and plant-based bowls. Look for clearly labeled vegetarian options and ask about dressings or broths to avoid animal-derived ingredients.