Finding a memorable place to stay can turn a simple Washington getaway into the part of the trip you talk about for years. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend with your partner or a relaxed trip with friends, the right accommodation should feel like more than just somewhere to sleep.
I’ve traveled throughout Washington and stayed in everything from boutique city hotels to remote cabins surrounded by mountains and forest. For this list, I focused on properties with distinctive design, memorable settings, and enough personality to make the stay itself part of the experience.
You’ll find options for spa weekends, waterfront escapes, city breaks, mountain adventures, and one seriously unusual Hobbit-inspired retreat. I’ve also included practical details to help you decide which stays work best for couples, which are better for friends, and what to know before you book.
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Which Unique Washington Stay Should You Choose? At a Glance
Still deciding which type of property fits your trip best? Here’s how I’d narrow down the ten options based on the kind of getaway you’re planning. Full descriptions of each property are further in the post.
Best Overall for Couples: The Society Hotel
Choose The Society Hotel when you want a romantic weekend with more to do than simply relax in your room. The outdoor soaking pools, spa facilities, café, and Columbia Gorge setting make it especially good for couples who want a mix of wellness and adventure.
Best for Friends: Rolling Huts
Rolling Huts is one of the most flexible choices for a friend getaway because you can choose between minimalist huts, glamping tents, and a three-bedroom farmhouse. Book the farmhouse when your group wants private bedrooms and shared space, or reserve separate huts when everyone prefers a little more independence.
Most Unusual Stay: The Hobbit House
For the most memorable and unconventional experience, book The Hobbit Inn. Its underground, Tolkien-inspired design makes the accommodation itself the main attraction. It is best for travelers who enjoy remote settings and do not mind bringing their own food and supplies.
Best Waterfront Escape: Snug Harbor Resort
Pick Snug Harbor Resort when you want waterfront views, quiet evenings, and easy access to San Juan Island activities. The cabins on Mitchell Bay work especially well for couples or close friends who want to kayak, watch for wildlife, and spend most of the weekend outdoors.
Best Coastal Bed and Breakfast: Sea Cliff Gardens
Sea Cliff Gardens is a strong choice for couples who want a peaceful, traditional bed-and-breakfast experience near Olympic National Park. The oceanfront setting and garden views make it better suited to a quiet romantic trip than a lively friend-group weekend.
Best Mountain Base: Twisp River Suites
Choose Twisp River Suites when you want a comfortable base for exploring the Methow Valley. Couples can book a standard guest room, while friends or travelers staying several nights may appreciate the additional space of a suite.
Best Treehouse Experience: Treehouse Place
Treehouse Place is the best fit when sleeping among the trees is at the top of your wish list. Couples should choose one of the treehouse cabins for the most distinctive experience, while friends may be more comfortable in the larger estate home.
Best Seattle City Stay: Palihotel
Book Palihotel when you want an unusual place to stay without leaving central Seattle. Its bold boutique design, on-site dining, and walkable location make it convenient for couples or friends planning a city break.
Best Historic Luxury Stay: The Historic Davenport Hotel
Choose The Historic Davenport Hotel for a more polished getaway with ornate architecture, cocktails, and a sense of occasion. It is ideal for couples celebrating something special or friends who want a dressier city weekend in Spokane.
Best Historic Stay on a Budget: Manresa Castle
Manresa Castle is a good option for travelers who want Victorian character and a memorable setting without choosing a full resort experience. It works well for couples or friends who enjoy historic properties and do not need modern, uniform rooms.
My Top Three Picks
For a couples’ getaway, I would start with The Society Hotel. For a trip with friends, Rolling Huts offers the most useful range of accommodation options. For the most unusual experience, The Hobbit Inn is the clear standout.
Once you know the type of getaway you want, check the current room options and compare the sleeping arrangements carefully before booking.
Fun Places to Stay in Washington State
The Evergreen State is chockfull of quirky cabins, cozy lodges, and elegant hotels. Even a retreat tucked into a mountain top! So, the next time you’re planning a trip to the area, pick from one of these unique stays for an unforgettable experience!
Pro Tip: Always check availability a few weeks (or months) in advance — many of these unique stays book up quickly, especially for weekends and holidays. And if you’re celebrating something special (like an anniversary or engagement), don’t be shy about letting the host know — they often offer extra touches.
1. The Society Hotel, Bingen
Best for: Couples who want a wellness-focused getaway, or friends who like combining spa time with outdoor adventures.
What makes it unique: The hotel occupies the site of a renovated 80-year-old school and offers everything from hostel-style rooms to private cabins, plus a spa, café, massage rooms, and outdoor soaking pools.
What I liked: Soaking in the outdoor hot tubs on a chilly fall weekend made the stay feel like a proper spa retreat, while the boutique setting kept it cozy rather than overly formal.
Good to know: Accommodation styles vary considerably. Check whether the room you are booking is private or hostel-style, especially when privacy is important.
Best room or accommodation type: Choose a private cabin for a romantic trip. Budget-conscious friends may prefer the hostel-style rooms.
Who should skip it: Travelers who want complete seclusion or do not enjoy shared facilities and communal spaces.
Over in Bingen, The Society Hotel rises up like a beacon along the steady-flowing Columbia River. At first glance, you may think the establishment is new, but far from it–sort of. The hotel was built on the site of an 80-year-old school. Instead of knocking down the original structure, the owners decided to renovate the building and turn it into the popular destination it is today.
We first visited The Society Hotel on a chilly fall weekend, and soaking together in the outdoor hot tubs with the Columbia River Gorge views was pure magic. It felt like a spa retreat without losing the cozy, boutique charm — perfect for reconnecting and unwinding.
You can find accommodation options ranging from cheap, hostel-style dorm rooms to private cabins. All guests can make use of the community building, which contains a spa, café, and massage rooms–sounds nice, right? Once you’re ready to hit the outdoors, great hiking and cycling trails and white-water rapids are waiting to be explored.
Unplug, unwind, and soak together in stunning mountain views — check availability now for your romantic Columbia River Gorge getaway at The Society.
2. The Hobbit Inn, Orondo
Best for: Couples or adventurous friends who want an immersive, highly unusual stay and do not mind being away from town.
What makes it unique: This underground, Tolkien-inspired retreat sits at the end of a rural mountain road near Leavenworth and is designed for travelers who genuinely want to unplug.
What I liked: The remote setting made it easy to slow down, while the fireplace and underground design made the space feel especially cozy during my snowy visit.
Good to know: The property has a full bathroom but did not have a kitchen at the time of writing. Bring suitable food and cooking supplies after confirming the property’s current setup.
Best room or accommodation type: The Hobbit Inn itself is the experience, so book it for the themed architecture rather than for extensive resort amenities.
Who should skip it: Travelers who need a full kitchen, easy access to restaurants, extensive on-site services, or a quick trip into town.
My snowy foray into the hobbit life was made infinitely better at this stay in Central Washington, not far from Leavenworth. The Hobbit House is an amazing adventure if you truly want to unplug. I enjoyed a cozy retreat tucked underground at the end of a rural road, high atop a mountain. Far enough away from civilization to unwind, yet close enough when all I really wanted a good latte in town.
You will be greeted with a cozy bed paired with a warming fireplace. While there is a full bath, there is no kitchen (as of this writing) so you’ll need to bring your own camp stove to prepare your grub and grog. They are currently building a separate kitchen a few steps down the road, so stay tuned!
Sleep like you’re in a Tolkien tale — check dates now for this cozy, romantic underground escape!
3. Sea Cliff Gardens, Port Angeles
Best for: Couples seeking a quiet coastal escape near Olympic National Park.
What makes it unique: This Victorian bed and breakfast sits on two acres of oceanfront property near Olympic National Park and the Olympic Discovery Trail.
What I liked: Waking to the sound of the water and having breakfast in the gardens overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca created the kind of unhurried morning that makes a short getaway feel much longer.
Good to know: This is a traditional bed-and-breakfast experience, so expect a more intimate atmosphere than you would find at a large hotel.
Best room or accommodation type: Choose an ocean-facing room when available so the property’s coastal location becomes part of the experience.
Who should skip it: Friend groups looking for nightlife, large communal spaces, or a private multi-bedroom rental.
Why stay at a run-of-the-mill hotel when you can book your stay at Sea Cliff Gardens.The Victorian bed and breakfast sits on two acres of remarkable oceanfront property. Staying at the Sea Cliff Gardens puts you just a stone’s throw away from Olympic National Park, the Discovery Trail, and other fantastic areas to hike and bike. Every morning you wake up in your quaint room to the sounds of nature, you’ll fall more and more in love with the bed and breakfast.
I remember waking up to the sound of waves and the smell of fresh ocean air. Breakfast in the gardens overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca felt like something out of a movie — romantic, quiet, and exactly the kind of slow morning every couple needs once in a while.
Wake up to ocean views and blooming gardens — book your romantic bed & breakfast escape before rooms fill up.
4. Twisp River Suites, Twisp
Best for: Couples or friends who want a comfortable base for exploring the Methow Valley without giving up riverside scenery.
What makes it unique: The locally designed property incorporates regional artwork and offers both guest rooms and larger suites on a riverfront site.
What I liked: We left the windows open at night so we could hear the river. The welcoming service also made the property feel more personal than a standard hotel.
Good to know: Room sizes vary, so compare the regular rooms and suites carefully before booking. A suite may be more comfortable for a longer visit or a trip with friends.
Best room or accommodation type: Choose a spacious suite for extra room or a small friend getaway. A standard room should suit couples planning to spend most of the day exploring.
Who should skip it: Travelers looking for a busy resort, nightlife, or an urban setting with attractions immediately outside the door.
The town of Twisp in the Northern Cascades may be small and rural, but it’s teeming with artists and craftsmen. An out-of-towner named Joe saw the area’s potential and recruited local talent to help build the Twisp River Suites.
The result was a uniquely designed building decorated with local artwork that’s quickly become one of the most popular lodging options in town. You’ll have the choice between cozy rooms and spacious suites that’ll make it hard not to feel right at home. On Sunny days, you can lay out in a hammock on the riverfront property–bliss at its finest.
We left the windows open at night just to hear the river rushing by. It’s the kind of place where you curl up with a glass of wine, listen to nature, and forget about time altogether. The owners were so welcoming that it felt less like a hotel and more like staying with old friends.
Curl up riverside in the heart of the Methow Valley — check availability now at Twisp River Suites for your cozy, couple’s escape with mountain charm.
5. Palihotel, Seattle
Best for: Couples or friends who want a design-forward city stay within easy reach of central Seattle attractions.
What makes it unique: Its bold colors, vintage furniture, and Wes Anderson-like styling make it feel noticeably different from a conventional downtown hotel. It also has an on-site restaurant and a central Seattle location.
What I liked: The playful design gave the hotel personality, and being able to eat on-site before walking into the city made the stay especially convenient.
Good to know: This is an urban boutique hotel rather than a secluded retreat. Expect city energy, activity, and potentially more noise than at the rural properties in this list.
Best room or accommodation type: Choose the room configuration that gives your group enough bed space. Couples can prioritize design and views, while friends should verify whether the selected room has separate beds.
Who should skip it: Travelers who want wilderness, waterfront solitude, a cabin atmosphere, or a quiet resort-style escape.
My stay at Palihotel in Seattle felt like being on a Wes Anderson film set. The hotel, from the lobby to the rooms, is painted in shades of cyan and decorated with quirky, vintage furniture. Everything about it has taste, but the flavors don’t stop in the lobby and rooms.
I had breakfast and lunch at The Hart and The Hunter, a Los Angeles-established diner. The on-site restaurant serves classic breakfast dishes, tasty burgers, salads, and more. There’s need to take a taxi downtown to explore the city because Palihotel is located right in the heart of Seattle.
It was the perfect balance of city buzz and intimate retreat — especially for couples that loves both adventure and downtime.
Cozy up in the heart of the Emerald City and book your stay at the Palihotel.
6. Rolling Huts, Winthrop
Best for: Couples who enjoy minimalist stays and friend groups who need a larger shared accommodation.
What makes it unique: Guests can choose between minimalist huts, glamping tents, and a three-bedroom farmhouse, all surrounded by the quiet landscape of the Methow Valley.
What I liked: Waking to the stillness of the mountains, drinking coffee outside, and watching deer wander nearby made the property feel genuinely removed from everyday life.
Good to know: The experience will vary significantly depending on whether you reserve a hut, tent, or farmhouse. Review the facilities and sleeping arrangements for your specific option.
Best room or accommodation type: Book a hut for a minimalist couples’ retreat. Choose the three-bedroom farmhouse for friends who want more privacy and shared living space.
Who should skip it: Travelers who dislike remote settings, minimalism, glamping, or having limited services close by.
When we stayed in the Methow Valley, the best part was waking up to the stillness of the mountains with coffee in hand and nothing but deer wandering nearby. The huts felt like our own little minimalist hideaway — simple, but exactly what we needed to disconnect and focus on each other.
The property consists of three unique lodging options. You can choose to stay in one of the Huts (minimalist tiny homes), the 3-bedroom Farm House, or a glamping tent. Whichever you pick, you’ll be engulfed by native flora and wonderful silence. Don’t think you’ll be without dining options because there’s a to-die-for pizzeria on the property–now that’s living! Rolling Huts is a no-brainer for anyone looking for fun places to stay in Washington State.
Glamp it out in nature – book The Rolling Huts – be sure to book early as these can sell out quickly!
7. Snug Harbor Resort, Friday Harbor
Best for: Couples or close friends who want a waterfront San Juan Island stay with access to kayaking, wildlife, and outdoor activities.
What makes it unique: The renovated resort offers modern waterfront cabins and suites on Mitchell Bay, with access to whale watching, kayaking, and the natural environment of San Juan Island.
What I liked: Ending the day on the deck while watching boats move through the bay was one of the most peaceful parts of the stay.
Good to know: Staying on San Juan Island requires additional transportation planning. Check ferry logistics and seasonal availability before finalizing your room.
Best room or accommodation type: Choose a waterfront cabin when available for more privacy and direct access to the views. A suite may work well for a shorter visit.
Who should skip it: Travelers who want a simple drive-up weekend, easy late-night entertainment, or the lowest-priced stay on the list.
Snug Harbor Resort is tucked away on San Juan Island along the coast of Mitchell Bay. By no means the new kid on the block, the original structure dates back to the 1960s. But don’t let that fool you – the resort was renovated between 2011 and 2014 and now offers waterfront cabins and suites with a modern design.
San Juan Island is home to rich ecosystems, and Snug Harbor uses clever eco-friendly practices to minimize its environmental impact. It even hosts three whale research organizations that help protect marine life. You’ll have access to world-class whale watching, sunset kayaking tours, and endless wilderness to explore.
When we stayed at Snug Harbor, our evenings ended on the deck with wine in hand, watching the boats come and go. It’s tucked away just enough to feel private, but close to everything in the San Juans. Waking up surrounded by water felt like being wrapped in calm.
Sip your morning beverage while gazing out at the ferries come and go in Puget Sound. I’m willing to bet you’ve never relaxed like this — book the Snug Harbor Resort for your next unforgettable anniversary.
8. Treehouse Place, Deer Ridge
Best for: Couples seeking a playful forest getaway or friends who want the treehouse atmosphere with more space.
What makes it unique: The property includes two multistory treehouse cabins with kitchenettes, fireplaces, and bathtubs, as well as a larger estate home.
What I liked: Sleeping among the trees felt adventurous and nostalgic, while the fireplace and other cozy details made it comfortable enough for an adult getaway.
Good to know: The treehouses and main estate provide different experiences. Confirm the number of beds, stairs, and available space before choosing.
Best room or accommodation type: Reserve a treehouse cabin for the most memorable couples’ experience. Choose the estate home when traveling with friends or when additional room matters more than novelty.
Who should skip it: Travelers with mobility concerns, anyone uncomfortable with multistory accommodations, or guests who prefer a full-service hotel.
Who says adults are too old to stay in treehouses? At Treehouse Place, there are two multistory cabins that put you up among the trees and will make you feel like a kid again. Located south of Seattle, the treehouses are fully equipped with a kitchenette, fireplace, bathtub, and cozy ambiance. If you like the idea of being surrounded by trees but need a little more space, you can book the main estate home that offers all the amenities of a house plus all the charm of a cabin.
There’s something about sleeping among the trees that feels childlike and adventurous — but with all the cozy details that made it romantic, like fairy lights and a crackling fireplace. It was our little storybook escape. It was one of my favorite stays – and as you may know, I love a good treehouse.
Reconnect with your sweetie above the forest floor — check availability now for your dreamy treehouse retreat near Seattle.
9. The Historic Davenport Hotel, Spokane
Best for: Couples or friends who enjoy historic architecture, elegant city hotels, cocktails, and a dressier getaway.
What makes it unique: First opened in 1914, the restored hotel combines elaborate historic interiors with modern hotel comforts.
What I liked: We dressed up for cocktails in the lobby, which made an ordinary evening feel like a glamorous night out from another era.
Good to know: The appeal is primarily its history, architecture, and atmosphere. It is a city hotel rather than a secluded nature stay.
Best room or accommodation type: Choose one of the more historic-feeling rooms or suites when available, especially when the hotel itself is the main reason for your visit.
Who should skip it: Travelers looking for a rustic cabin, private hot tub, remote setting, or highly casual accommodation.
Washington State isn’t just known for its rustic cabins, and The Historic Davenport Hotel proves that. It first opened in 1914, and guests flocked in to experience the ritzy glamor and excellent service. Almost 90 years later, after the building was in danger of being demolished, the hotel was renovated back into the enchanting place it once was.
Today, The Historic Davenport Hotel oozes elegance and provides modern-day luxuries. Upon arriving, you’ll quickly understand why it’s one of the most unique places to stay in Washington State. Staying at The Historic Davenport felt like stepping into a glamorous time capsule. We dressed up one evening just to have cocktails in the opulent lobby, and it felt like a date night from the 1920s. The mix of history and romance made it one of the most memorable city stays we’ve ever had
Spend the night in historical romance and book your stay at The Historic Davenport Hotel.
10. Manresa Castle, Port Townsend
Best for: Couples or friends who enjoy historic buildings, Victorian character, and accommodations with a slightly mysterious atmosphere.
What makes it unique: The 19th-century building was once Port Townsend’s largest private residence, and its guest rooms retain elements of the property’s Victorian style.
What I liked: Wandering the halls and imagining the building’s past made the stay feel like more than simply booking a room for the night.
Good to know: Historic character often means rooms differ in layout and features. Review the individual room description rather than assuming every room is identical.
Best room or accommodation type: Choose a room with prominent period details, high ceilings, or other historic features when available.
Who should skip it: Travelers who prefer sleek contemporary design, identical modern rooms, or resort-style amenities.
Your inner history buff won’t want to miss out on staying at the Manresa Castle. The 19th-century building was once the largest residence in Port Townsend and has changed hands on more than one occasion. It now acts as a truly special accommodation option in Washington State that can’t be compared to anything else. Various owners have upgraded and revitalized certain aspects of the castle; however, the available rooms still maintain their original Victorian style.
During our stay, we couldn’t resist leaning into the castle vibes — wandering the halls, imagining the stories the walls could tell. The atmosphere was both mysterious and romantic, and curling up together in a room with high ceilings and antique details felt like we’d stolen away to another era.
Get your castle fix in without going all the way to Europe. Check availability now for Manresa Castle.
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