Welcome to Washington
Washington, known as the Evergreen State, is a land of towering forests, snow-capped mountains, and vibrant coastal cities. Located in the Pacific Northwest, it borders Canada to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the west. The state is home to Mount Rainier, one of the tallest peaks in the continental United States, and the scenic Puget Sound, where ferries glide between islands and bustling port towns.
History and Heritage
Washington became the 42nd state in 1889 and has long been a center of exploration, trade, and innovation. Native peoples such as the Coast Salish have lived here for thousands of years, shaping the land’s identity through fishing, art, and storytelling. European explorers and settlers later established trading posts that grew into modern cities like Seattle and Tacoma.
Economy and Innovation
Today, Washington is a global leader in technology, aviation, and agriculture. Major companies like Boeing, Microsoft, and Amazon began here, fueling the state’s economy and creativity. Its fertile valleys produce apples, cherries, and hops, while its ports connect American products to markets around the world.
Natural Beauty and Lifestyle
From the lush rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula to the volcanic peaks of the Cascade Range, Washington offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Its people value sustainability, education, and community, making it one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking states in the nation.
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| Fact |
Detail |
Interesting Facts |
| Region: |
Pacific Northwest |
- Washington is the only U.S. state named after a president—George Washington.
- Mount Rainier, an active stratovolcano, is the highest point in the state at 14,410 feet.
- Seattle is home to major companies such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Starbucks.
- Washington produces more apples than any other U.S. state, contributing over half the nation’s supply.
- The Grand Coulee Dam on the Columbia River is one of the largest concrete structures in the world.
- Olympic National Park includes ecosystems ranging from temperate rainforests to rugged coastlines.
- Boeing’s first airplane factory was built in Seattle in 1916.
- Washington has no personal income tax, making it popular with tech workers and entrepreneurs.
- The Space Needle in Seattle was built for the 1962 World’s Fair and remains a symbol of innovation.
- Puget Sound is an inlet of the Pacific Ocean with over 170 islands and thriving marine life.
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| Population: |
Approximately 7.8 million (2025 est.) |
| Area: |
71,362 sq mi (184,827 km²) |
| Statehood Date: |
November 11, 1889 (42nd state) |
| Capital City: |
Olympia |
| Largest City: |
Seattle |
| Abbreviation: |
WA |
| Nickname: |
The Evergreen State |
| Geography: |
Features the Cascade Range, Puget Sound, Olympic Mountains, and numerous islands; bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west. |
| Bordering States: |
Oregon (south), Idaho (east); borders Canada to the north. |
| Economy: |
Technology, aerospace (Boeing), agriculture (apples, cherries, hops), timber, and trade through the Port of Seattle. |
| State Tree: |
Western Hemlock |
| State Bird: |
Willow Goldfinch (American Goldfinch) |
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