State Abbreviation: WA

Capital: Olympia

Name Origin: Named after the first President of the United States, George Washington.

Nickname: The Evergreen State

Statehood: Nov. 11, 1889 (42nd State)

State Motto: "Al-ki," which is a Chinook word that means "By and by" or "Hope for the future." It reflects the optimistic and forward-looking spirit of the state and its residents

Washington has a rich history that dates back over 10,000 years. Native American tribes, including the Yakima, Chinook, Nez Perce, and Puget Sound Salish, inhabited the region for thousands of years. European explorers, such as Bruno Heceta, Capt. Robert Gray, and Capt. George Vancouver, arrived in the 1700s, but it was not until Meriwether Lewis and William Clark's expedition in 1805 that Americans explored the area more extensively. Ownership of the region was shared by Britain and America until the signing of the Oregon Treaty in 1846, which established the boundary and paved the way for the creation of Washington Territory. The state of Washington was officially established in 1889.

Washington's history is closely tied to its abundant natural resources. The state is known for its lumber industry, with vast forests of Douglas fir, hemlock, pine, spruce, and cedar. It is also a leading producer of apples, lentils, peas, hops, pears, berries, mint oil, and cherries. Manufacturing sectors such as aircraft, transportation equipment, food processing, metals, chemicals, and machinery contribute significantly to the state's economy. Washington is home to numerous dams, including the Grand Coulee, which serve purposes such as irrigation, power generation, flood control, and water storage.

The state boasts remarkable natural attractions, including Mt. Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades National Parks. The eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980 left a lasting impact on the region. Important historic sites like Whitman Mission and Fort Vancouver National Historic Sites showcase the state's past. Modern landmarks like the Pacific Science Center and the iconic Space Needle in Seattle draw visitors from around the world.

• Washington is a fruit powerhouse: The state leads the nation in the production of sweet cherries, apples, pears, and red raspberries. It's also the birthplace of Rainier cherries, known for their exceptional sweetness.
• Home to notable figures: Washington has been the birthplace of many famous individuals, including artist Chuck Close, cartoonist Gary Larson, musician Jimi Hendrix, singer Bing Crosby, and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.
• The iconic Seattle Space Needle: Standing at 605 feet tall, the Seattle Space Needle is an iconic landmark. Its unique design, featuring a flying saucer-like structure at the top, has become synonymous with the city's skyline.
• The state named after a president: Washington is the only state in the United States named after a president. It was named in honor of the first president of the United States, George Washington.
• Rich natural beauty: Washington is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. It boasts diverse natural wonders, including majestic mountains like Mount Rainier, stunning coastal areas, and scenic national parks like Olympic and North Cascades. The state's natural beauty offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploration.

1. Discover the beauty of Olympic National Park: Explore the diverse landscapes of this national park, which includes stunning coastal areas, old-growth forests, and majestic mountain peaks like Mount Olympus. Enjoy hiking, camping, wildlife watching, and breathtaking views.
2. Experience the vibrant city of Seattle: Visit the iconic Space Needle, explore the bustling Pike Place Market, and indulge in the city's vibrant food and music scene. Don't miss the opportunity to take a scenic ferry ride and enjoy panoramic views of the Puget Sound.
3. Explore Mount Rainier National Park: Hike through wildflower-filled meadows, admire cascading waterfalls, and witness the grandeur of Mount Rainier, an active volcano and the tallest peak in the state. The park offers various recreational activities, including camping, climbing, and wildlife spotting.
4. Take a scenic drive along the Cascade Loop: Embark on a road trip along this picturesque route, winding through the Cascade Mountains. Experience breathtaking views, charming small towns, and outdoor adventures, such as hiking, fishing, and skiing.
5. Visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass: Immerse yourself in the captivating world of renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. Explore the stunning glass sculptures and installations in the indoor and outdoor garden, located in Seattle Center.