10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Marysville, Washington
Planning a trip to
Marysville, Washington in
Snohomish County? Or maybe you live nearby and want some new ideas for a weekend adventure?
You’re in the right place.
Marysville is perfectly placed just north of
Seattle. You get small-town charm, easy freeway access, and a ton of outdoor and family-friendly activities within a short drive. From waterfront views to outlet shopping and casino nights, there’s a little something for everyone.
Below are
10 great things to do in and near Marysville, WA that locals love and visitors shouldn’t miss.
1. Stroll the Waterfront at Ebey Waterfront Park
If you only have time for one quick stop in Marysville, make it
Ebey Waterfront Park.
This peaceful spot sits right on the Ebey Slough, just a few blocks off State Avenue. You’ll find:
- Paved walking paths along the water
- Benches and picnic spots
- Boat launch and fishing areas
- Views of marshland and distant mountains on clear days
It’s a relaxing place to stretch your legs after a drive on I‑5. I once stopped here just “for 10 minutes” and ended up staying an hour, just watching the tide and listening to the birds.
If you’re into photography, come around sunset. The colors over the slough can be surprisingly stunning, even on cloudy days.
2. Shop, Dine, and Play at Seattle Premium Outlets & Quil Ceda Village
Technically in Tulalip, but just minutes from downtown Marysville,
Seattle Premium Outlets is one of the top draws in the area.
You’ll find:
- Big-name outlet stores (think Nike, Coach, Columbia, and more)
- Food court and casual restaurants
- Plenty of parking and easy freeway access
Right next door is
Quil Ceda Village, a destination all by itself with:
- Additional shopping (Cabela’s, Walmart, specialty shops)
- Dining options from fast food to sit-down restaurants
- The Tulalip Resort Casino (more on that next!)
If you’re looking for things to do near Marysville that mix shopping and entertainment, this is your one-stop hub.
3. Try Your Luck at Tulalip Resort Casino
Just a couple minutes off I‑5,
Tulalip Resort Casino is one of the most popular attractions near Marysville.
Even if you’re not big into gambling, it’s worth a visit for:
- Restaurants and bars with a wide range of cuisines
- Live entertainment and concerts (check their events calendar)
- A beautiful, lodge-style resort atmosphere
Of course, if you do like to play:
- Table games and slot machines
- Poker room and high-limit areas
Many travelers stay here as their “home base” and then explore Marysville and the rest of
Snohomish County by day. It’s a good option if you want a mix of nightlife and day trips.
4. Birdwatch and Paddle at Spencer Island Park
Looking for a quiet nature escape just a short drive from Marysville? Head south to
Spencer Island Park, a Snohomish County gem along the
Snohomish River estuary.
Here you’ll find:
- Flat, easy walking trails (great for casual strolls)
- Wetlands full of herons, eagles, ducks, and other birds
- Peaceful river and marsh views
Bring binoculars if you have them. Even if you don’t consider yourself a “birder,” it’s pretty fun to see how much wildlife you can spot.
If you enjoy kayaking or canoeing, the surrounding waterways offer calm paddling on the right tides. Just be sure to check local conditions and tide charts first—it’s a tidal area, and currents can change.
5. Spend a Day at Jennings Memorial Park & the Jennings Nature Park Trails
Right in Marysville,
Jennings Memorial Park is a family favorite and a great all-around spot for a relaxed afternoon.
You’ll find:
- Playground for kids
- Open grassy fields for frisbee or a casual soccer game
- Picnic areas and shelters
- Easy walking paths
On the north side is
Jennings Nature Park, with short trails that dip into a more wooded, natural feel. It’s perfect if you want a “little hike” without leaving town or driving too far.
Looking for free things to do in Marysville? This is high on the list.
6. Take a Scenic Drive to Lake Stevens
About 15–20 minutes east of Marysville is the city of
Lake Stevens, wrapped around a beautiful lake that locals love year-round.
When the weather is nice, you can:
- Swim or wade at public access points and parks
- Kayak, paddleboard, or boat on the lake
- Walk or jog along lakefront sidewalks and paths
Even in cooler months, driving around the lake and stopping at a waterfront park can be really peaceful. Grab coffee in downtown Lake Stevens, then wander down to the shoreline and watch the boats and ducks go by.
If you’re staying in Marysville, this makes an easy half-day or evening outing.
7. Explore Downtown Snohomish: The “Antique Capital” Nearby
About a 30–35 minute drive southeast from Marysville, the town of
Snohomish is famous in Washington for its historic downtown and antique shops.
Here’s what makes it worth the drive:
- Blocks of antique and vintage stores
- Charming cafes and bakeries
- Riverside walking along the Snohomish River
- Historic buildings with tons of character
If you enjoy browsing for unique home decor, old records, or quirky collectibles, you could easily spend several hours here.
Pro tip: Park once downtown and explore on foot. Everything’s close together, and you’ll spot little shops and murals you might miss from the car.
8. Walk, Bike, or Jog the Centennial Trail
If you like staying active, put the
Centennial Trail on your list. This paved trail runs through Snohomish County, including the nearby town of Arlington, just north of Marysville.
What to expect:
- Wide, paved path for walkers, runners, bikers, and families
- Gentle grades (no intense hills), making it approachable for most
- Views of farms, forests, and small communities
It stretches for over 30 miles, so you can choose a short, casual stroll or a longer bike ride. Many locals like to park at a trailhead, walk a couple miles, then head back into town for lunch.
If you’re traveling with kids, this is a safer option than biking on busy streets.
9. Visit Legion Memorial Park and Everett’s Waterfront
Drive about 15–20 minutes south from Marysville into Everett, and you’ll hit another great waterfront area along Port Gardner Bay.
Start at
Legion Memorial Park:
- Big open lawns and picnic spots
- Playground and sports fields
- Views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains on clear days
Then continue down to the
Everett waterfront:
- Marina with sailboats and yachts
- Waterfront restaurants and coffee shops
- Walking paths along the bay
If you’re craving ocean air but don’t want to drive all the way to the outer coast, Everett’s waterfront is a great compromise close to Marysville.
10. Catch a Festival or Local Event in Marysville
Marysville might not be a huge city, but it has a strong sense of community and several fun events throughout the year.
Depending on when you visit, you might catch:
- Fourth of July celebrations with fireworks and parades
- Seasonal markets or holiday events
- Local sports games, fun runs, or charity walks
City parks like Jennings Memorial and Ebey Waterfront often host gatherings or activities, especially in spring and summer.
Before you go, check the
City of Marysville website or local event calendars online. You might time your trip just right and end up in the middle of a festival you didn’t even know about.
Where to Stay and How to Get Around
Marysville is right off
Interstate 5, about 35–45 miles north of Seattle (depending on where you start). That makes it an easy base for exploring all of Snohomish County.
A few quick tips:
- Lodging: You’ll find hotels near the freeway exits and at Tulalip Resort Casino. Everett also has additional options.
- Transportation: A car is the easiest way to get around, especially if you’re visiting lakes, trails, and parks.
- Weather: Expect mild, often wet winters and pleasantly warm summers. Pack a light rain jacket almost any time of year.
Final Thoughts: Marysville as Your Snohomish County Launchpad
Marysville, Washington might not be the first city you think of when you picture the Pacific Northwest, but that’s part of its charm. It’s less crowded than Seattle, more relaxed, and perfectly placed between:
- Waterfront views and wetlands
- Outlet shopping and casino entertainment
- Small-town downtowns and scenic trails
Whether you’re planning a quick overnight stop or a long weekend, these
10 things to do in and around Marysville will give you plenty of options to fill your days.
Share Your Marysville Experience
Have you visited Marysville or Snohomish County before?
- Which park or trail was your favorite?
- Did you find a great local restaurant or coffee shop?
- Any hidden gems you think travelers should know about?
Drop a comment below and share your tips. Your experience might help someone else plan their perfect Marysville getaway.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s planning a trip to Washington or looking for new weekend ideas near Seattle.
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