Washington state is a beautiful place, filled with breathtaking natural spaces, and an endless number of places to visit. Aside from hiking and general outdoor adventures, Washington is home to some unique travel destinations that aren’t very well known. Upon arrival at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, rent a car at our Sea-Tac car rental location and take a road trip to see sights you didn’t know exist.
Snoqualmie Pass, Washington
Just east past Rockdale on Interstate 90, there’s a little-known gem hidden within the Snoqualmie Pass called Snoqualmie Tunnel. Built in the early 1900s, this nearly 2 ½ mile long tunnel was previously used as part of a train line that ran from Chicago to Seattle. Now, this tunnel offers visitors an experience unlike any other as they venture in darkness from one end to the other.
When visiting Snoqualmie Tunnel, it’s important to note that the entire trek through the tunnel is in absolute darkness, which is why it’s essential to bring your own light source. A jacket or coat is also called for as it’s typically at least 20 degrees cooler inside the tunnel than outside, even during warmer months. Spend a few hours in the dark, traversing this secret tunnel and enjoying the beautiful nature surrounding it.
Near Vantage, WA
Continuing east on Interstate 90, you’ll find your way across the Columbia River to Wild Horse Monument. While easy to spot from the highway, this work of art is best viewed up close. Built between 1989 and 1990 by David Govedare, these 15 life-size steel ponies are part of an unfinished art piece known as Grandfather Cuts Loose the Ponies, and was initially designed to have a large tipped over basket with 2 horses still inside, with 16 horses running away. While funding ran low and the piece was never completed, this dramatic sculpture is definitely one to see first-hand.
From the Wild Horse Monument go back across the Columbia River, drive to Ellensburg, and head south on Interstate 82 to Toppenish, then take US-97 to Goldendale for a museum and a memorial well worth your time.
35 Maryhill Museum Drive, Goldendale, WA 98620
Permanent home to over 80 works by the amazing Auguste Rodin, the Maryhill Museum of Art is worth the trip to the edge of Washington’s southern border. In addition to the beautiful exhibits you’ll find inside of this museum, there is one very unique piece you’ll find just 3 miles east.
Stonehenge Memorial is like nothing else you’ll experience in the state of Washington or the country for that matter. This breathtaking replica of the original Stonehenge in England was designed and built by Samuel Hill in the early 1900s, with the altar stone dedicated July 4, 1918, as a memorial to Klickitat County’s fallen soldiers.
Before you head out on your road trip, be sure your Seattle rental car is outfitted with everything you need. With various options and services available, it’s easy to find a plan that best fits your needs during your travels, including those for e-tolls and even fuel options.