Pacific Northwest Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, activities, hiking and biking routes, food scene, and cultural customs of Pacific Northwest with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest is a stunning region in the United States known for its unparalleled beauty, diverse culture, and outdoor activities. The area boasts the beauty of jagged mountains, pristine forests, and stunning ocean views. Washington, Oregon, and Idaho are commonly considered Pacific Northwest states. In this guide, we will explore the top places to visit, must-try dishes, cultural customs, safety, and health tips to ensure you have an unforgettable trip.

List of Places to Visit in Pacific Northwest

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the most exciting things about the Pacific Northwest region is its rich history and diverse culture. From insightful museums to significant historical landmarks, there is plenty to explore.

  • Pioneer Square, Seattle
  • Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Oregon
  • The Museum of Flight, Seattle
  • The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, Spokane
  • Olympic National Park, Washington
  • Museum of Pop Culture, Seattle
  • Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge, Oregon
  • Pendleton Underground Tours, Oregon

Natural Attractions of Pacific Northwest: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty makes it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The region offers one-of-a-kind national parks, hiking trails, and scenic drives, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers.

  • North Cascades National Park, Washington
  • Mount Hood National Forest, Oregon
  • Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
  • Hoh Rainforest, Washington
  • Snoqualmie Falls, Washington
  • Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
  • Multnomah Falls, Oregon
  • Cannon Beach, Oregon

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest is an outdoor paradise with endless opportunities for hiking and biking adventures. From easy trails to challenging mountain peaks, there are options for all skill levels.

  • Rattlesnake Ledge Trail, Washington
  • Saddle Mountain State Natural Area, Oregon
  • Mount Tabor Park, Oregon
  • Wallace Falls State Park, Washington
  • Cape Flattery Trail, Washington
  • Bunker Hill Trail, Idaho
  • Cape Perpetua, Oregon
  • Toketie Falls Trail, Oregon

Best Things to Do in Pacific Northwest: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, the Pacific Northwest has something to offer everyone. Here are the top activities and tours to indulge in:

  • Wine tasting in Willamette Valley, Oregon
  • Zip lining through the lush forests of Washington
  • Whale watching off the coast of Seattle
  • Multnomah Falls Guided Tour, Oregon
  • Treetop Adventure Park in Spokane, Washington
  • Spokane Riverfront Park amusement rides, Washington
  • Olympic Game Farm in Sequim, Washington
  • Floatplane tours in British Columbia, Canada

Week-Long Itinerary for Pacific Northwest

If you’re taking a week-long trip, here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day 1-2: Seattle, Washington Day 3: Olympic National Park, Washington Day 4: Cannon Beach, Oregon Day 5: Mount Hood, Oregon Day 6: Crater Lake, Oregon Day 7: Spokane, Washington

Food and Drink Scene of Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the best locally-sourced cuisine and craft beer. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages to satisfy your taste buds during your trip:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fresh seafood, like Dungeness crabs and salmon
  • Seattle-style hot dogs with cream cheese
  • Marionberry pie, an iconic Oregon dessert
  • Geoduck clam chowder
  • Walla Walla onion rings
  • Tillamook cheese

Local Beverages

  • Craft beer from breweries like Deschutes and Elysian
  • Woodinville wines from Washington
  • Freshly-brewed coffee from Seattle’s infamous Starbucks

Where to Stay in Pacific Northwest: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some top places to consider staying during your trip, based on your budget and preferences:

  • The Edgewater Hotel in Seattle, Washington
  • The Columbia River Gorge Hotel in Hood River, Oregon
  • Shilo Inns Suites Hotels in Portland, Oregon
  • Budget-friendly hostels like City Hostel Seattle
  • Guest houses like the Dahlia House in Spokane, Washington

What to Buy in Pacific Northwest: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some must-buy items to take home as souvenirs:

  • Local art, pottery, and crafts
  • Freshly roasted coffee beans
  • Dark chocolate from Theo Chocolate, Seattle
  • Wines from the Willamette Valley, Oregon
  • Souvenirs like Pike Place Market T-shirts and Seattle Space Needle replicas
  • Hand-crafted jewelry

Local Culture and Customs of Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest region values sustainability, community, and environmental conservation. It is considered rude not to recycle, compost, or conserve energy when possible. Tipping for services is also customary; most restaurants and service industry workers expect 15-20% gratuity.

Best Time to Visit Pacific Northwest

The best time to visit the Pacific Northwest is during the summer months, between June to September. The weather is warm and dry with minimal rain, making it the perfect time to hike, bike, and explore the outdoors. Winter months from December to February tend to be rainy and cold, but the region is still beautiful and offers several winter sports activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pacific Northwest

Do:

  • Use eco-friendly products and recycling whenever possible
  • Tip 15-20% in restaurants and service industry businesses
  • Take advantage of farmer’s markets and locally-sourced foods
  • Be prepared for sudden weather changes and pack accordingly

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places or parks
  • Litter or harm wildlife
  • Neglect safety precautions while hiking or biking
  • Take shortcuts or stray off marked hiking trails

Safety and Health

Safety in Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest is generally a safe place to visit. However, it’s important to take precautions, especially when exploring natural parks and trails. Some tips to stay safe include:

  • Hiking with a buddy or group
  • Packing extra food, water, and clothing essentials
  • Staying on marked trails and paying attention to signage
  • Checking weather reports before going out
  • Carrying bear spray when exploring

Health in Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest is prone to seasonal allergies, so it’s best to carry allergy medication. Sunscreen and bug spray are also essential, especially during outdoor activities. Beware of ticks while outdoors, and check for any signs of Lyme disease.

Getting to Pacific Northwest: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pacific Northwest

The major airports for Pacific Northwest are Seattle International Airport, Portland International Airport, and Spokane International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Pacific Northwest

Amtrak and Greyhound buses run through various locations in the Pacific Northwest, making transportation accessible.

Other Options

Renting a car is a popular option for exploring the Pacific Northwest region. Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available in metropolitan areas.

How to Get Around in Pacific Northwest

Public transportation options such as buses, light rails, and monorails are available in urban areas. However, renting a car is the most convenient option for exploring more rural areas like national parks and scenic drives.

Where to Go Next from Pacific Northwest: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring:

  • Vancouver, Canada (2 hours from Seattle)
  • Victoria, Canada (3 hours from Seattle)
  • San Juan Islands, Washington (2 hours from Seattle)
  • North Idaho, including Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint (4 hours from Spokane)
  • Bend, Oregon (3 hours from Portland)

Conclusion

The Pacific Northwest is a stunning destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, rich history, and unique culture. Our travel guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your trip while exploring this breathtaking region. Come visit the Pacific Northwest and indulge in its picturesque landscapes and explore its rich cultural heritage!

Mount Rainier in summer Mount Rainier in summer 'The Needles', Cannon Beach Oregon 'The Needles', Cannon Beach Oregon seaplane landing in Seattle's Lake Union seaplane landing in Seattle's Lake Union Washington State Ferry leaving Vashon Island Washington State Ferry leaving Vashon Island Lime Kiln Lighthouse San Juan Islands Lime Kiln Lighthouse San Juan Islands Oregon's Mount Hood reflected in Mirror Lake Oregon's Mount Hood reflected in Mirror Lake Vineyard in Willamette Valley Vineyard in Willamette Valley The Pacific Northwest is well known for its rain, but not all weather here is a joke. The Pacific Northwest is well known for its rain, but not all weather here is a joke. Tsunami evacuation signs are common along the coast such as this one in Seaside, Oregon. Tsunami evacuation signs are common along the coast such as this one in Seaside, Oregon.


    Oregon
    Washington (state)