10 Things People from Washington Do Every Time They Come Back to Washington

Whether you’ve been soaking up the sun in California or braving the dry air of the Midwest, coming back to Washington feels like breathing in a misty breath of fresh, rain-soaked air. From the iconic sight of Mount Rainier to the smell of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air, Washington has a way of welcoming you home like no other place. Here are ten things every Washingtonian does the second they set foot back in the Evergreen State.

Immediately Put on a Rain Jacket (Even If It’s Not Raining)

No matter what the weather forecast says, you grab your trusty rain jacket the second you’re home. Washingtonians know that rain is always lurking, and you’re not about to be caught unprepared—it’s practically a uniform at this point.

Order a Craft Coffee and Pretend You Didn’t Miss It

After suffering through “average” coffee elsewhere, you return home and head straight to your favorite local café for a pour-over or espresso. You act like it’s just another day, but deep down, you’re savoring every last sip of that expertly roasted, perfectly brewed cup.

Complain About the Traffic on I-5 (But Secretly Enjoy It)

It’s a love-hate relationship with I-5, and the first time you hit traffic after being away, you grumble like it’s the worst thing ever. Yet somehow, the familiarity of it is almost comforting—you’re back in Washington, where the beauty makes the congestion worth it.

Get Sentimental About Seeing Mount Rainier

You’ve seen it a thousand times, but spotting Mount Rainier after being away still gives you a sense of pride. Whether you’re driving on the highway or taking a hike, that towering mountain reminds you that Washington’s natural beauty is unmatched.

Find the Nearest Farmers Market for “Fresh, Local” Everything

Washingtonians are big on local, organic produce, and being back means you’re headed straight to the farmers market. You load up on fresh berries, artisanal cheeses, and homemade bread, ready to dive back into the farm-to-table lifestyle you missed.

Plan a Trip to the San Juan Islands (Even If You Never Actually Go)

Coming home means it’s time to start talking about taking a trip to the San Juans. You’ll discuss ferry schedules and dream of whale watching, even if you don’t make it out there—but hey, it’s the thought that counts, right?

Revel in the Fact That You Don’t Have to Pump Your Own Gas

After visiting states where you had to pump your own gas, being back in Washington feels like a small victory. You pull up to the station and enjoy the simple pleasure of staying in your car while someone else does the dirty work.

Grab a Bite of Fresh Salmon (And Judge It Harshly)

You won’t admit it, but no salmon tastes as good as Washington salmon. The second you’re back, you seek out a seafood spot and quietly compare every bite to what you had elsewhere—and of course, Washington wins every time.

Get Excited About the Rain (For the First Day)

After being away from the Pacific Northwest’s misty drizzle, you’re almost excited when you feel the rain again. You post a picture or two of the gray skies, claiming you “missed this,” but by day two, you’re back to grumbling about the endless drizzle.

Throw on Flannel and Feel Right at Home

No matter the season, being back in Washington means you reach for your favorite flannel shirt. It’s cozy, it’s stylish, and it’s quintessentially Pacific Northwest—it’s like a warm hug that makes you feel instantly at home.

Coming back to Washington is like slipping into a perfectly broken-in pair of hiking boots. From the rain and traffic to the mountains and coffee, there’s something undeniably comforting about returning to the land of evergreen trees and endless trails. So grab your rain jacket, pour a fresh cup of coffee, and get ready to soak in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest—it’s good to be home!