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The lush green state of Washington attracts introverted creative types from around the world. Here’s where to see the best of their work in Seattle, Olympia, and Spokane.
Seattle
Pioneer Square Art Walk
In 1981, Pioneer Square introduced the first art walk to ever grace the USA. Assembled by a group of passionate art dealers, the event exploded in popularity and is now one of Seattle’s favorite monthly traditions. Not only will you have access to sidewalk showings and galleries, this little corner of Seattle has many public displays (like the famous Native American Totem Poles in Occidental Square) that you can view at any time. Before you go, plan to sink your teeth into the rich and delectable Bacon and Brie Burger in the heart of it all at BRGR Bar. Afterwards, load up on a solid sensory strain like Permafrost and see if you can spot a phantom or two on the city’s hair-raising SPOOKED in Seattle ghost tour.
Date: First Thursdays, year-round
Time: 6pm–8pm
Fremont Art Walk
With the famous Lenin Statue taking Fremont’s center stage, and the popular sculpture of a massive troll peering out from under the Aurora Avenue bridge, this artsy neighborhood proudly wears its creativity on its sleeve. With so much inspiration surrounding these streets, it’s no wonder Fremont takes its art walk seriously—you’ll find everything from oil paintings to spoken poetry and live bands. An art walk so steeped in its unique surroundings deserves a bright, uplifting strain like the euphoric Fire OG. Stop by Fremont’s very own Have a Heart to nab a gram or two. But first, before the show, don’t miss a quick stop at Brouwer’s to beat the heat with a light and refreshing Steigl Grapefruit Radler (add a shot of tequila for a little extra buzz).
Date: First Fridays, year-round
Time: 6pm–9pm
Capitol Hill Art Walk
On second Thursdays, Capitol Hill’s incredible art galleries fling open their doors to showcase established artists and talented hopefuls alike. Before hitting the town or strolling down those brilliant rainbow crosswalks, drop by Ruckus Seattle for some discreet edibles—we recommend sweet hard candies to line your pockets as you bounce from venue to venue. With an elevated mind, you won’t want to miss the positively refreshing and absolutely magical garden store NICHEoutside or the enigmatic Ghost Gallery on Denny Way.
When: Second Thursdays, year-round
Time: 6pm–10pm
Spokane
First Friday Spokane
On the first Friday of every month, downtown Spokane lights up with local artists and their unique creations. In addition to the usual gallery openings, myriad restaurants and retail spaces offer their own special promotions during this monthly art walk to support the creative community. Make a pit stop at Lucky Leaf Co. to load up on oil or wax for your favorite vape pen for a discreet yet endlessly elevating experience. Curb your munchies with Iron Goat Brewing‘s spicy Thai Pizza, drizzled with Sriracha aioli and creamy peanut sauce. Check out displays from Iron Goat’s featured artists before heading out for more incredible art.
Date: First Fridays, year-round
Time: 5pm–8pm
Olympia
Downtown Olympia
The Olympia Arts Walk is a twice-yearly event that draws almost everyone in the entire city. Flush with hundreds of artists and over 100 businesses, Downtown Olympia makes the perfect space for creative talents and art enthusiasts. Stay until the sun goes down to witness the breathtaking Procession of the Species—a showcase that mixes elements of humanity and the natural world. You’ll want to reach for a pure Washington strain such as UW (named after the University of Washington in Seattle) before taking to the streets of Washington’s glowing capitol.
Date and time: Spring—April 28 (5pm–10pm) & April 29 (12pm–8pm); Fall—October 6 (5pm–10pm) & October 7 (12pm–5pm)
