Things to do / Travel Guide
Generally speaking, prices in the northwest Washington and Cascades region range from reasonable to high end. In other words, while this area isn't known for being expensive, it doesn't exactly have a reputation for being terribly cheap either. With the right trip planning, you can navigate your way through the region without having to drill a hole in your pocket.
Dining Costs in Northwest Washington and the Cascades
Seattle, Tacoma, and Olympia have a wide array of great restaurants and excellent places to eat, many of which are relatively inexpensive, with Olympia being slightly cheaper. On average, moderately-priced restaurants will cost around $20-$25 a head. Top-end restaurants, by contrast, can set you back about three times as much per person. On the other end of the spectrum, in Chinatown in Seattle's International District, Asian cuisine is delectable and quite cheap, with lunches and dinners often not exceeding $10 per person.
Lodging Costs in Northwest Washington and the Cascades
Hotel room prices in Seattle generally start at no lower than $80 per night and can be much higher depending on the time of year and room availability. Rooms at bed and breakfast establishments (B&Bs) by contrast, especially around the Capitol Hill area, can be had for as low as $55 a night.
In Tacoma, on the other hand, there aren't as many hotel rooms. Your cheapest lodging option is staying at one of the motels or hotels spread out across the Pacific Highway in Fife. Expect to save about 20%-25% when compared to Seattle prices. There are also B&Bs in Tacoma in some of the older residential districts costing a bit more.
Out on the San Juan Islands, lodging is expensive compared to the rest of the region, with prices ranging anywhere from $70-$300 a night, depending on the type of accommodations you choose.
Attractions and Activities Costs in Northwest Washington and the Cascades
Most of the attractions and activities, such as state parks and walking tours, are generally inexpensive and reasonably-priced (under $20 for the most part). For example, tours of popular sites, like the Boeing factory in Everett and the Seattle Space Needle will cost in the neighborhood of $10-$15 per person. Some choice activities, however, like air tours over the region, can cost close to $100 per “thrill.”
Transportation Costs in Northwest Washington and the Cascades
Public transportation in Seattle is a good and inexpensive way to get around if you would rather not drive. The public bus systems in both Tacoma and Olympia are also considered to be relatively inexpensive.
If you choose to rent a car to get around the region, all of the major car rental agencies are well-represented at the airports and in the cities throughout the region.
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