Colton WashingtonATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Colton, Washington.
1. Artisans at the Dahmen Barn
LOCAL ART AND CULTURE
Artisans at the Dahmen Barn is a popular art gallery in Colton featuring works from local artists. Visitors can explore various artistic creations and often meet the creators themselves during special events. The venue also hosts workshops and cultural events throughout the year, making it a vibrant hub for the local arts community.
2. Sunshine Crafts and Flowers
HANDMADE GIFTS AND BLOOMS
Sunshine Crafts and Flowers offers a charming selection of handcrafted items and fresh floral arrangements in Colton. The shop provides visitors with unique souvenirs and gifts made by local artisans, perfect for remembering your visit. Their seasonal displays and friendly service make this a must-visit spot for tourists exploring the area.
3. Colton Community Events
LOCAL CELEBRATIONS YEAR-ROUND
Colton Community Events bring locals and visitors together throughout the year for celebrations and gatherings. These events showcase the tight-knit community spirit that defines this small Washington town. Visitors can experience authentic local culture through seasonal festivals, parades, and community gatherings.
4. Colton Countryside
SCENIC RURAL LANDSCAPES
The Colton Countryside offers visitors breathtaking pastoral views and peaceful rural landscapes. Rolling hills, agricultural fields, and natural beauty provide perfect settings for photography and outdoor relaxation. The changing seasons bring different colors and atmospheres, making it worth visiting at different times of the year.
5. Space Needle
ICONIC SEATTLE LANDMARK
The Space Needle stands as Seattle's most recognizable landmark, offering panoramic views of the city, mountains, and Puget Sound. Visitors can ascend to the observation deck for a 360-degree vista or enjoy a meal at the rotating restaurant. This iconic structure, built for the 1962 World's Fair, remains one of Washington state's most visited attractions.
6. Pike Place Fish Market
FAMOUS FISH-THROWING EXPERIENCE
Pike Place Fish Market entertains visitors with its famous fish-throwing tradition while offering some of the freshest seafood in the Pacific Northwest. Located in Seattle's historic Pike Place Market, this attraction draws crowds who come to watch the theatrical fish tosses between vendors. Beyond the performance aspect, customers can purchase high-quality seafood and chat with the knowledgeable fishmongers.
7. Chihuly Garden and Glass
SPECTACULAR GLASS ART EXHIBITION
Chihuly Garden and Glass showcases the stunning glass artworks of renowned artist Dale Chihuly in a breathtaking exhibition space. The museum features elaborate glass installations both indoors and integrated with garden landscapes, creating magical color-filled environments. Visitors are consistently amazed by the scale, complexity, and beauty of these delicate yet bold glass sculptures.
8. University of Washington
HISTORIC CAMPUS BEAUTY
The University of Washington campus offers visitors stunning Gothic architecture and beautiful grounds, particularly famous for its cherry blossoms in spring. Tourists can explore the historic buildings, gardens, and public art installations throughout this picturesque urban campus. The university also houses museums, libraries, and performance venues that host events open to the public year-round.
9. Seattle Aquarium
MARINE LIFE DISCOVERY CENTER
The Seattle Aquarium provides an immersive experience into the marine ecosystems of Puget Sound and beyond through interactive exhibits and live animal displays. Visitors can observe sea otters, harbor seals, octopuses, and countless fish species in naturalistic habitats. The aquarium's educational programs and touch pools offer hands-on learning opportunities for visitors of all ages.
10. Palouse Falls State Park
DRAMATIC WATERFALL SCENERY
Palouse Falls State Park features a spectacular 198-foot waterfall carved by Ice Age floods in a dramatic canyon setting. Visitors can view the falls from several overlooks along a well-maintained trail system that offers different perspectives of this natural wonder. The park's remote location in eastern Washington, relatively close to Colton, provides a peaceful nature experience with opportunities for photography, picnicking, and wildlife observation.
11. Kamiak Butte County Park
PANORAMIC HIKING PARADISE
Kamiak Butte County Park rises nearly 1,000 feet above the surrounding Palouse countryside, offering hikers spectacular panoramic views. The park features diverse ecosystems with over 170 plant species and abundant wildlife along its network of trails. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, camping facilities, and seasonal wildflower displays in this natural retreat not far from Colton.
12. Wawawai County Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Wawawai County Park provides scenic access to the Snake River with boat launches, fishing spots, and swimming areas. The park's peaceful setting offers visitors a chance to enjoy water recreation and observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. Picnic facilities and camping options make this an ideal destination for day trips or overnight stays from nearby Colton.
13. WSU Creamery
FAMOUS COUGAR GOLD CHEESE
WSU Creamery at Washington State University produces the world-famous Cougar Gold cheese and other dairy products available for visitors to sample and purchase. The facility offers tours where guests can learn about the cheese-making process that has made their products regional favorites since 1940. Visitors from Colton can easily make the short drive to experience this unique culinary attraction that combines education and delicious tastings.
14. Steptoe Butte State Park
PALOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY HOTSPOT
Steptoe Butte State Park features a quartzite island rising 3,612 feet above sea level with unparalleled views of the rolling Palouse hills. Photographers from around the world visit this location to capture the patchwork patterns of agricultural fields, especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset. The park's paved road spirals to the summit, making this natural wonder easily accessible for visitors from nearby Colton.
15. Lewis-Clark Valley Wine Region
EMERGING WINE COUNTRY
The Lewis-Clark Valley Wine Region encompasses vineyards and wineries near the Washington-Idaho border, offering visitors wine tastings and scenic vineyard tours. This emerging wine destination features unique varietals that thrive in the region's specific microclimate and volcanic soils. Visitors from Colton can enjoy a day trip sampling local wines and meeting passionate winemakers who are putting this area on the wine tourism map.