Nestled just over 80 miles east of Seattle, Roslyn, Washington, offers an enchanting escape, perfect for a romantic weekend getaway or a fun-filled family adventure. This quaint mountain town, brimming with character and history, provides a delightful blend of culinary delights, local heritage, artisanal beverages, unique shopping experiences, and direct access to breathtaking hiking trails. Whether you’re seeking a serene retreat amidst nature or a charming small-town exploration, Roslyn, WA, promises an unforgettable Pacific Northwest experience.
Your Ultimate Guide to Roslyn, Washington: A Charming Pacific Northwest Getaway
Roslyn, Washington, serves as an idyllic day trip destination from both Seattle and Spokane. This picturesque town perfectly embodies the spirit of a Pacific Northwest adventure, inviting visitors to step away from the urban hustle and immerse themselves in its unique charm.
Fans of the iconic 1990s TV series Northern Exposure will instantly recognize many of Roslyn’s buildings. Though the show was set in fictional Cicely, Alaska, the exterior scenes were primarily filmed in Roslyn and nearby North Bend. Iconic landmarks such as the Roslyn Cafe’s distinctive camel mural, Ruth Ann’s Store, the KBHR Radio Station, and the panoramic views of Main Street are all vividly recognizable from the series’ opening credits, drawing visitors into a nostalgic journey.
Beyond its cinematic fame, Roslyn offers a wealth of activities. Top attractions include snapping photos with the famous camel mural, sampling craft beverages at the Roslyn Brewing Company and Heritage Distilling Company (don’t miss their signature brown sugar bourbon!), indulging in incredible local cuisine, and simply soaking in the stunning Cascade Mountain views. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your perfect visit to Roslyn, WA.
Exploring Roslyn, WA: Location, Climate, and Getting Here
Where is Roslyn, Washington?
Roslyn is strategically located approximately 80 miles east of Seattle, nestled within the scenic Kittitas County and at the base of the magnificent Cascade Mountain Range. For those traveling from Seattle, the journey involves a picturesque drive over Snoqualmie Pass, offering stunning views and a true taste of the Pacific Northwest landscape. From Spokane, Roslyn is about 200 miles west via I-90, a comfortable three-hour drive. The nearest larger towns are Cle Elum, a short drive away, and the vibrant city of Ellensburg, further east, offering additional amenities and attractions.
Roslyn, WA Weather: A Four-Season Experience
Roslyn beautifully experiences all four distinct seasons, characteristic of a true Pacific Northwest mountain town. Situated at the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, winter in Roslyn is marked by abundant snowfall, often extending well into spring. The town averages an impressive 84 inches of snow annually, transforming it into a winter wonderland for snow sports enthusiasts and those seeking cozy retreats.
Despite the heavy snow, Roslyn is also blessed with an average of 204 days of sunshine each year, making spring, summer, and fall equally inviting. During our visit on the first day of spring, we awoke to light snowfall, which quickly gave way to clear skies. This serves as a gentle reminder for visitors to be prepared for varied weather conditions, ensuring you pack layers and check forecasts ahead of time to make the most of your Roslyn adventure.
A Culinary Journey: Roslyn’s Exceptional Restaurants
Roslyn Cafe: An Iconic Landmark
The Roslyn Cafe, famously known as the Northern Exposure Cafe, is an unmissable stop. Its iconic camel mural adorning the brick facade is a direct link to the beloved TV series, serving as a popular photo opportunity for fans and visitors alike. While the show’s narrative placed it in “Cicely, Alaska,” many exterior shots, including those featuring the cafe, were filmed right here in Roslyn.
A fun fact for diligent observers: the mural originally had an apostrophe-s (‘s) added by the production company to align with the show’s theme, but it has since been restored to its original “Roslyn Cafe” signage. Beyond its fame, the cafe offers a charming atmosphere and hearty meals perfect for any time of day. Find this piece of television history at 201 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Roslyn, WA, United States.
The Brick Saloon: Washington’s Oldest Operating Saloon
Step back in time at The Brick Saloon, proudly holding the title of Washington State’s oldest continually running saloon, established in 1889. This historic establishment is renowned for its remarkable 23-foot running water spittoon, a true relic of its colorful past. For those who might get a little too jovial, legend has it there’s even a basement jail cell! The saloon earned its apt name from its original builders, who used an astounding 45,000 bricks in its construction.
The Brick Saloon welcomes families, with children permitted in the designated dining area until 9 pm daily, allowing everyone to experience this iconic Washington landmark. Their extensive menu caters to diverse tastes, featuring a dedicated vegetarian and vegan section, a wide array of delicious burgers, and all the classic pub fare you’d expect from a historic saloon. Discover The Brick Saloon at 100 W Pennsylvania Ave, downtown Roslyn, WA 98941.
Red Bird Cafe: A Local Favorite for Breakfast and Lunch
You can’t miss the Red Bird Cafe, thanks to its vibrant red exterior! This delightful cafe is a local gem, serving exceptional breakfast and lunch options, alongside a tempting selection of homemade baked goods and freshly brewed coffee. They are particularly praised for their excellent vegan menu choices.
We highly recommend trying one of their breakfast sandwiches – they are so incredibly delicious, you’ll be sad when the last bite is gone! A standout option is the ⅓ lb. Sausage patty* with Swiss-American cheese, homemade gravy, and your choice of smashbrown patty or sweet potato-vegetable hash. Everything we’ve sampled here has been absolutely amazing, cementing its status as our current favorite spot to eat in Roslyn.
Roslyn Mexican Grill: Authentic Pre-Hispanic Flavors
Roslyn Mexican Grill offers a truly unique culinary experience, specializing in pre-Hispanic cuisine. This approach focuses on the traditional diet consumed in Mexico and Central America for over 6,000 years, offering a distinct departure from the fusion of Mesoamerican and European cooking commonly found in contemporary Mexican restaurants introduced by the Spanish in the 16th century.
The menu emphasizes core ingredients like corn, squash, beans, and chilis, which formed the foundation of dishes before the Spanish conquest. They also expertly incorporate a variety of spices, chocolate, and tomatoes to craft complex and unique flavors, specific to diverse regional traditions. Complementing their exceptional food, Roslyn Mexican Grill boasts an extensive tequila list and offers engaging tequila tastings. Their fantastic margarita and cocktail menu further elevates the dining experience.
Village Pizza: A Long-Standing Community Staple
Village Pizza holds a special place in Roslyn as a beloved local pizza restaurant, known for serving consistently great pies for over 25 years, a testament to its enduring popularity. While a recent visit revealed some changes in their offerings, including a noticeably thicker crust than previously experienced, the restaurant remains a community staple.
On a more critical note, the cinnamon sticks proved disappointing during our last visit, failing to meet expectations. While we hope this was an isolated occurrence, it’s worth noting for those who have previously enjoyed their menu. Village Pizza continues to offer a traditional menu of pizzas alongside a few unique creations designed to tempt the more adventurous palate, such as their Polish sausage and kielbasa pizza. To streamline your order, you can now place it directly through the Village Pizza Facebook page, which can save valuable time during busy periods.
Logan’s: Roslyn’s Newest Dining Experience
Logan’s is the newest addition to Roslyn’s vibrant dining scene, quickly becoming popular for its welcoming atmosphere and classic American fare. A standout feature is its excellent outdoor seating area, which is notably dog-friendly, making it a perfect spot to relax with your furry companion while enjoying a delicious meal.
Things to Do in Roslyn, WA: History, Culture, and Recreation
Roslyn Theater: Home of the Marlon Brando Mural
The small but charming Roslyn Theater holds a delightful surprise on its rear facade: a magnificent mural of Marlon Brando, painted in 1992. This striking artwork depicts Brando in his iconic role from the film “The Wild One,” adding a touch of classic Hollywood cool to this historic town. It’s a must-see for film buffs and art enthusiasts. The Roslyn Theater is located at 101 W. Dakota Ave., Roslyn, WA.
Roslyn Museum: Preserving Coal Mining History
The Roslyn Museum is dedicated to protecting and sharing the rich coal mining history that shaped this unique town. Visitors can explore fascinating exhibits, including the impressive Ausburg clock and various Northern Exposure memorabilia, providing insights into both the town’s industrial past and its more recent pop culture fame.
Outside the museum, a compelling display of coal mining equipment offers a tangible connection to the lives of the miners. Roslyn’s coal mines attracted men from diverse coal mining regions across the United States, Europe, and beyond. Following a strike in 1888, the Northern Pacific Coal Company famously recruited 300 African-American miners from North Carolina, Virginia, and Kentucky, who, along with their families, moved to Roslyn, creating one of Washington State’s most fascinating and diverse historical narratives. This museum is a poignant testament to the resilience and multicultural heritage of the coal mining community.
Heritage Distilling Company: Award-Winning Craft Spirits
Heritage Distilling Company (HDC) proudly stands as North America’s most awarded craft distillery, making a visit here an absolute must for spirits enthusiasts. Their Brown Sugar Bourbon is a particular highlight and not to be missed!
The HDC tasting room and cocktail bar offer an absolutely breathtaking experience, known for its stunning aesthetics and inviting ambiance. A truly unique feature is their spirits growler bar, where you can fill a growler with an impressive variety of featured spirits. Choose from a wide selection of fruit vodkas, the robust Elk Rider Bourbon, and a full range of whiskeys, including the exclusive Roslyn Reserve Bourbon Whiskey. We always make sure to stock up on our favorite Brown Sugar Bourbon during our visits, eager to share new bourbon recipes soon.
Roslyn Brewing Company: Hand-Crafted Beers with History
Since 1990, the Roslyn Brewing Company has been crafting exceptional, full-flavored beers in the traditional old-world style. Their distinctive, full-bodied German-style lagers pay homage to the brewing traditions brought by the immigrant miners who settled in Roslyn. These exquisite beers are brewed with malted barley grown in the fertile Northwest, hops sourced from the renowned Yakima Valley, and crisp, ice-cold snow-fed water from the heart of the Cascades, ensuring a truly authentic taste of the region.
The inviting taproom is open year-round on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. When the Pacific Northwest weather is agreeable, their fantastic beer garden provides the perfect setting to savor a cold brew. Operating hours are Friday – Saturday: Noon to 7 PM, and Sunday: Noon to 5:30 PM. They also open on Labor Day and the Friday after Thanksgiving. You can find this historic brewery at 208 W Pennsylvania Avenue, Roslyn, WA 98941.
Roslyn Candy Company: Sweet Treats and Local Delights
Indulge your sweet tooth at the Roslyn Candy Company, a delightful purveyor of fine chocolates, marshmallows, and other delectable confections. Their exquisite chocolate selection includes unique flavors such as Hazelnut Caramel Praline, Holiday Spice, Orange Buttercream, Peanut Butter, Salted Caramel, 5 Spice, their signature Brown Sugar Bourbon, and Lapsang.
In addition to their artisanal candies, they also offer locally made ice cream, which is absolutely perfect for cooling down on a warm summer afternoon. The Roslyn Candy Company is conveniently located in the historic bank building at 100 E. Pennsylvania Ave in Roslyn, WA, adjacent to the Red Bird Cafe and directly across the street from the iconic Brick Saloon, making it an easy stop on your tour of downtown.
Coal Mine Trail: A Walk Through History
In 1886, the Northern Pacific Railroad constructed a vital rail line connecting Cle Elum and Roslyn, primarily for coal transportation and local residents. Today, while the railway tracks are gone, this historic corridor has been thoughtfully transformed into a scenic walking trail. Along the 5.5-mile one-way trail, with an elevation change of 453 feet, interpretive markers detail the rich history of the area, offering glimpses into Roslyn’s coal mining past.
The entire Coal Mine Trail extends from Cle Elum, through Roslyn, and onward to Ronald, Washington, providing one of the most engaging and historically significant hikes near Roslyn, WA. It’s a wonderful way to combine outdoor activity with a deep dive into local heritage.
Roslyn Cemetery: A Tapestry of Immigrant History
While seemingly an unusual inclusion in a travel guide, the Roslyn Cemetery is a profoundly significant site, offering a unique window into the town’s history. This distinctive cemetery eloquently tells the story of how immigrants from around the world converged in Roslyn to work in its coal mines. It features an remarkable 26 individual ethnic and lodge cemeteries, all clustered within a 15-acre area overlooking the town.
These separate sections vividly illustrate the diverse cultural heritage of Roslyn’s early residents, reflecting the various nationalities and fraternal organizations that played a crucial role in the community. Recognizing its historical importance, the cemetery was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. Visitors are kindly reminded that this is an active cemetery and a place of deep respect, requiring quiet contemplation.
Roslyn Grocery: Local Essentials and Road Trip Fuel
The Roslyn Grocery is your go-to spot for all your snack and road trip food needs. Beyond standard grocery items, they stock a variety of unique local products that are exclusive to this charming area, offering a taste of regional specialties.
Basecamp Books and Bites: Literary Delights and Community Hub
Basecamp Books and Bites is an absolute treasure, a place where you’ll want to spend hours browsing and indulging! This delightful establishment combines an excellent selection of books and unique gifts with a cozy cafe offering fantastic coffee and delectable baked goods. Their cinnamon rolls are legendary – massive and incredibly delicious – and their hot chai lattes and vanilla lattes are simply amazing.
Adjacent to Basecamp Books is the Roslyn Yard, a wonderful open space with comfortable seating, perfect for settling in with a new book and a warm cup of coffee. The Roslyn Yard serves as a vibrant community hub, featuring a communal fire pit, outdoor games, and occasional Brewfests. During the summer months, it transforms into an outdoor cinema, projecting movies onto the side of the building for a magical evening under the stars. Be sure to check Basecamp Books and Bites’ social media for updates on their engaging Wednesday trivia nights and lively Sunday farmers market. Plus, it’s a pet-friendly spot, so your four-legged friends are welcome too!
Corks Wine Bar: A Relaxing Evening Retreat
Corks Wine Bar, conveniently located just off Roslyn’s main street, offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding. They boast an extensive selection of fine wines, expertly paired with a variety of delicious appetizers. Their charming outdoor seating area provides an ideal setting to relax with a superb glass of wine, making it a wonderful spot for an evening gathering or a quiet moment.
Where to Stay in Roslyn, WA: Accommodation Options
Hotel Roslyn: Boutique Charm in the Heart of Town
During our most recent weekend getaway, we had the pleasure of staying at the relatively new Hotel Roslyn, which opened its doors in 2019. This exquisite boutique hotel offers beautifully appointed rooms, making it an ideal choice for a romantic escape. They also feature excellent pet-friendly rooms, ensuring your furry companions can join in on the adventure.
For those seeking more space, the hotel provides two-story townhome suites that can comfortably sleep up to six guests across a spacious 1,200 square feet. We opted for a King Patio unit, which boasted a luxurious king-size bed, a welcoming living room complete with a kitchenette, and a super charming private patio.
The Hotel Roslyn’s prime location, just one block from the vibrant heart of Roslyn, allows guests to easily park their car and explore the town on foot without any hassle. Our King Patio room was truly amazing: bright, cheerful, and filled with natural light, featuring comfortable seating arrangements. The well-equipped kitchenette had everything needed for a weekend or extended stay, including coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and apple cider readily available on the counter. With a small stovetop, dishwasher, and mini-fridge, preparing simple meals or storing delicious leftovers from Roslyn’s incredible restaurants is a breeze.
The private patio, furnished with four chairs and a table, provides a serene spot to enjoy a hot cup of coffee or tea each morning before embarking on your day’s adventures. This boutique Roslyn hotel truly offers everything you could desire for a memorable and romantic getaway. We are already looking forward to planning a longer return visit to further relax and soak in the charm of Hotel Roslyn. You can find Hotel Roslyn at 103 W. Washington Ave, Roslyn, WA 98941, or contact them at 509-649-3852.
Suncadia Resort: A Luxury Mountain Retreat Nearby
Suncadia Resort, located just a short distance from Roslyn, offers a luxurious alternative for those seeking a premium mountain resort experience. Situated adjacent to 2.2 million acres of the pristine Wenatchee Washington National Forest, this expansive resort provides an ideal escape from the demands of city life, immersing guests in unparalleled natural beauty.
Suncadia boasts a wide range of accommodation options, including elegant vacation homes, comfortable condominiums, and well-appointed lodge rooms, catering to various preferences and group sizes. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for resort amenities like golf courses, spas, and multiple dining venues within close proximity to Roslyn’s charm.
Click on the map below to see current rates for hotels and vacation rentals near Roslyn, WA:
How to Get to Roslyn, WA
By Plane: The closest major airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac Airport), located approximately 88 miles west of Roslyn, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights. While Yakima airport is closer, it is a smaller facility with limited flight options. Spokane International Airport (GEG) is located 199 miles away to the east, and Portland International Airport (PDX) is 236 miles to the south, both serving as viable but more distant alternatives.
By Car: The most convenient and scenic way to reach Roslyn, WA, is by car, primarily via Interstate 90. When driving, keep an eye out for the exit for Cle Elum, as signs for Roslyn itself may not be as prominent directly from the interstate.
By Train: The nearest train station serving Amtrak passengers is Leavenworth Icicle Station, though it requires further travel to reach Roslyn.
Further Washington State Adventures
Extend your exploration of Washington State with these fantastic nearby destinations:
- Salish Lodge – Experience a luxurious stay next to the majestic Snoqualmie Falls.
- Liberty Orchards – Visit the home of the famous Aplets & Cotlets in nearby Cashmere.
- Icicle Ridge Winery – Discover this gorgeous winery nestled in the charming town of Leavenworth.
- Things to do in Prosser, WA – From wine tasting to relaxing, explore the many attractions in Prosser.
- Things to do in Lake Chelan – A must-visit Eastern Washington lake community for sun-filled fun.
- Things to do in Leavenworth – This Bavarian-themed village is just a short drive from Roslyn and a definite highlight.
- Union Gap Burger Trail – If your travels take you south towards Yakima or Union Gap, don’t miss these incredible burger restaurants!
For a comprehensive look at all the region has to offer, check out our full collection of Washington State Travel Guides.