Tucked away on the breathtaking shores of Puget Sound, Everett, Washington, is the kind of place that sneaks up on you. Forget being just a stop on the way to somewhere else.
This city has confidently carved out its own identity as a powerhouse of aerospace innovation and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a beautiful blend of industrial grit and natural grandeur, where the smell of saltwater mixes with the spirit of discovery.
So, you’re curious about what to do in this Pacific Northwest gem? Buckle up. We’ve explored every corner of this dynamic city to bring you the ultimate insider’s guide.
From touring the world’s largest building by volume to sipping coffee while watching whales, this list is packed with unforgettable Everett experiences. Get ready to discover the 12 best things to do in Everett, Washington.
1. Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour – Best Overall & Most Unique Attraction
Let’s be real. You can’t talk about the best things to do in Everett, Washington without starting with the main event. This is home to the largest building in the world by volume, and the chance to see where majestic Boeing jets like the 747, 777, and 787 Dreamliner are born.
The Boeing Tour is a behind-the-scenes look that is nothing short of awe-inspiring. You’ll witness the mind-boggling scale of assembly lines and see thousands of dedicated folks building the future of flight.
The adjacent Future of Flight Aviation Center is a blast, with interactive exhibits that let you design your own plane and explore cutting-edge aviation technology.
This isn’t just a museum; it’s a front-row seat to American manufacturing greatness. It’s easily the most unique and compelling reason to visit Everett. Pro tip: book your tour tickets online well in advance as they sell out fast. This is, without a doubt, the number one thing to do in Everett.
2. Jetty Island – Best For Families & A Quick Summer Escape
Imagine a two-mile-long, human-made island paradise with warm, shallow waters and sandy beaches. That’s Jetty Island, and it’s Everett’s best-kept summer secret.
This place is an absolute dream for families. The water is calm and perfect for little ones to splash around, and the sand seems to go on forever. The island feels a world away from the city, yet it’s just a free two-minute ferry ride from the mainland.
You can spend the day building sandcastles, flying kites in the constant breeze, or exploring the nature trails that wind through the marshes. There are no cars or shops, just pure, unadulterated beach fun.
Remember, it’s only open from July through early September, and you’ll need to reserve your ferry spot online. For a cheap, unforgettable day of sun and sand, Jetty Island can’t be beat.
3. Funko HQ – Best For Pop Culture Fans & A Funky Good Time
Prepare for a dose of pure, unbridled joy. Funko HQ is not your average corporate store; it’s a vibrant, life-sized celebration of pop culture. Stepping inside is like walking into a Willy Wonka factory for collectors and fans of movies, comics, and TV shows.
The place is bursting with massive displays of their iconic Pop! figures, from superheroes to classic film characters.
The main attraction is the create-your-own Pop! bar, where you can design a custom vinyl figure to take home as the ultimate souvenir. The energy here is infectious, colorful, and incredibly fun.
Even if you’re not a hardcore collector, you can’t help but smile. It’s a totally unique and Instagram-worthy stop that showcases Everett’s playful and creative side.
4. Forest Park – Best For a Nature Walk & Family Fun
When you need a deep breath of that famous Pacific Northwest air, head straight to Forest Park. This isn’t just any city park; it’s a sprawling 197-acre wonderland that feels like a wild forest was plopped right in the middle of the city.
It’s one of the largest and most beloved parks in the region for a reason. You’ll find over 10 miles of walking trails that weave through towering evergreens, following the swoops and bends of the ravine.
But that’s not all. The park also boasts an fantastic, recently renovated outdoor pool complex for the summer, an animal farm, and multiple playgrounds.
It’s the perfect place to spend an entire day. You can hike in the morning, have a picnic lunch, and let the kids burn off the rest of their energy on the swings. It’s a true community treasure.
5. Narbeck Wetland Sanctuary – Best For Birdwatching & a Peaceful Stroll
Looking for a quiet escape that feels a million miles away? Discover the Narbeck Wetland Sanctuary.
This 50-acre oasis is a hidden gem, offering a serene network of boardwalks and trails that take you right through the heart of a protected wetland ecosystem. It’s a prime spot for birdwatching—bring your binoculars to spot herons, woodpeckers, and all sorts of waterfowl.
The trails are easy and flat, making it accessible for almost everyone. It’s the perfect place for a mindful walk, some nature photography, or simply a moment of quiet reflection.
The sanctuary does an incredible job of preserving a vital piece of natural Washington right in the city’s backyard. Best of all, it’s completely free to explore.
6. Imagine Children’s Museum – Best For Hands-On Learning & Young Kids
If you’re traveling with kids under ten, this place is an absolute must-do. The Imagine Children’s Museum is a brilliant, interactive playground spread across three floors.
It’s designed to spark curiosity and learning through play. Kids can pretend to be firefighters, veterinarians, or pilots. They can climb through a multi-story aerial maze, experiment with water flows, and create art in a dedicated studio.
The rooftop playground is a huge hit, offering fantastic views on a clear day. It’s the kind of place where kids are so busy having fun they don’t even realize they’re learning. It’s easily one of the top indoor activities for families in Everett, especially on a classic drizzly Washington day.
7. Howarth Park – Best For Beachcombing & Puget Sound Views
For that classic, quintessential Puget Sound experience, make your way to Howarth Park.
This beautiful waterfront park offers a rocky beach perfect for skipping stones, searching for sea glass, and simply soaking in the views of the Olympic Mountains across the water. It’s a fantastic spot to watch the boats go by or to catch a stunning Northwest sunset.
The park features a long, paved path that’s ideal for a leisurely walk or bike ride. There are picnic tables, a playground, and even a fire pit.
It’s a local favorite for a reason—it’s accessible, beautiful, and captures the peaceful, maritime spirit of Everett perfectly.
8. Schack Art Center – Best For Creativity & A Cultural Fix
Dive into Everett’s vibrant arts scene at the Schack Art Center. This isn’t a stuffy, look-but-don’t-touch gallery. It’s a living, working center where you can watch artists in action.
Their hot shop, where glassblowers create beautiful pieces, is absolutely mesmerizing to watch. The galleries feature rotating exhibits from talented local and regional artists.
You can even get in on the action yourself by signing up for one of their many classes, from jewelry making to painting.
It’s a wonderful place to appreciate local creativity and maybe even find a unique piece of art to take home. Supporting the Schack means supporting the heart of the local arts community.
9. Legion Memorial Park – Best For Sports & Panoramic Views
Perched on a hill overlooking the north end of the city, Legion Memorial Park offers some of the best views in Everett.
But it’s more than just a pretty overlook. This park is a hub of activity with well-maintained baseball fields, tennis courts, and a great playground. The grassy fields are perfect for flying a kite or throwing a frisbee.
It’s a fantastic place to catch a local league baseball game on a summer evening or to just enjoy a picnic with a spectacular vista.
The combination of recreational facilities and stunning scenery makes it a versatile and popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for things to do in Everett.
10. Everett Farmers Market – Best For Local Flavors & Sunday Strolling
To taste the true flavor of the region, you have to visit the Everett Farmers Market. Running on Sundays from May through October, this market is a weekly community celebration.
Local farmers bring their freshest produce, from juicy berries to crisp apples. You’ll also find an amazing array of artisan food vendors, bakers, and crafters.
The atmosphere is lively and friendly, with live music often filling the air. Grab a coffee, sample some local cheese, and pick up some beautiful flowers.
It’s the perfect way to spend a Sunday morning, soaking up the local culture and supporting small businesses. It’s a delicious and authentic Everett experience.
11. Langus Riverfront Park – Best For Waterfront Trails & Birding
Stretching along the Snohomish River as it meets Puget Sound, Langus Riverfront Park is a beautiful linear park perfect for walking, biking, and fishing.
The paved trail is flat and easy, offering stunning water views and plenty of opportunities to watch boats and marine life. It’s a fantastic spot for birding, especially during migration seasons.
The park also features a boat launch and picnic areas. It’s less crowded than some other waterfront parks, offering a more peaceful experience. For a long, scenic walk with constant water views, this park is an excellent choice.
12. The Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum – Best For History Buffs & Vintage Planes
For aviation enthusiasts who can’t get enough, this museum is an essential stop. While currently under new management and reopening in phases, its incredible collection of meticulously restored vintage aircraft and military vehicles is legendary.
The focus is on historical, working aircraft that tell the story of 20th-century aviation and conflict.
Seeing these magnificent machines up close is a powerful experience. It’s a must-see for anyone fascinated by history, engineering, and the stories of the past. Be sure to check their website for the latest opening information and to plan your visit.
Conclusion
As you can see, Everett, Washington, is a city of incredible contrasts and exciting discoveries. It’s a place where world-class engineering meets untouched nature, and where family fun is always around the corner.
So what are you waiting for? The skies are clear, the trails are calling, and an unforgettable adventure is waiting for you.
Start planning your trip to Everett today and see for yourself why this Pacific Northwest city is a destination you absolutely need to experience. Your journey begins now