Northwest Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit and things to do in Northwest. From outdoor adventures to museums and cultural attractions, our travel guide has everything you need for a memorable trip.


Introduction to Northwest

Located in the Portland Metropolitan Area of Oregon, Northwest is a vibrant region in the beautiful Pacific Northwest of the United States of America. Known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture and friendly locals, Northwest is a must-visit destination for avid travelers. From scenic views to outdoor adventures, museums to historical sites, Northwest has something for everyone.

In this travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay, eat and shop when in Northwest.

List of Places to Visit in Northwest

Start your journey in Northwest by exploring the most famous places in the region. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Portland Art Museum: One of the oldest and largest art museums in the Northwest, featuring a vast collection of artworks from different parts of the world.

  • Oregon Historical Society Museum: A must-visit museum for history buffs, showcasing Oregon’s rich cultural heritage and history.

  • Pittock Mansion: A historic mansion offering stunning views of the city and its surroundings.

Natural Attractions of Northwest: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Forest Park: One of the largest urban forest reserves in the United States of America, comprising 80 miles of hiking trails, lush greenery and scenic views.

  • International Rose Test Garden: A botanical oasis featuring more than 7,000 rose plants from over 550 varieties.

  • Mount Hood: A beautiful mountain peak that offers year-round outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northwest

Northwest is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are the best hiking and biking routes in the region:

  • Wildwood Trail: A 30-mile trail that runs through Forest Park with beautiful views of the forest.

  • Powell Butte Nature Park: A 608-acre park that features hiking trails, equestrian trails, and a stunning view of Mount Hood.

  • Springwater Corridor: A 21.5-mile trail that runs along the Willamette River with fantastic views of downtown Portland.

Best Things to Do in Northwest: Activities and Tours

From food tours to adventure activities, Northwest has a lot to offer. Here are some of the best things to do in Northwest:

  • Wine Tasting: Take a wine tour of the Willamette Valley, one of the world’s best wine regions.

  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Soar above the city skyline and enjoy stunning aerial views of the region.

  • Food Carts: Take a food cart tour of Portland and experience the delicious diverse cuisine of the Pacific Northwest.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northwest

Here’s a week-long itinerary to explore the best of Northwest:

  • Day 1: Visit the Oregon Historical Society Museum and Pittock Mansion.

  • Day 2: Hike the Wildwood Trail in Forest Park.

  • Day 3: Visit Mount Hood and explore the natural beauty of the mountain region.

  • Day 4: Take a balloon ride or wine tour of the Willamette Valley.

  • Day 5: Visit the Portland Art Museum and International Rose Test Garden.

  • Day 6: Take a food cart tour of Portland and enjoy the delicious local cuisine.

  • Day 7: Relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Northwest.

Food and Drink Scene of Northwest

Northwest is a food lover’s paradise. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages of the region:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dungeness Crab: A Pacific Northwest delicacy and a must-try dish when in the region.

  • Marionberry Pie: A delicious pie made with locally grown marionberries, a type of blackberry.

  • Portland-style Pizza: A unique pizza style that features a thin crust and fresh local ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Oregon is known for its excellent craft beer scene, with over 200 breweries in the state.

  • Pinot Noir: The Willamette Valley is one of the best wine regions in the world, producing world-class Pinot Noir.

  • Coffee: Portland is famous for its coffee shops, offering delicious coffee and a cozy atmosphere to relax and work.

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

Northwest has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay in the region:

  • The Nines, A Luxury Collection Hotel: A luxurious five-star hotel located in the heart of downtown Portland.

  • Hostelling International Northwest Portland: A budget-friendly hostel located in the vibrant Northwest neighborhood.

  • The Society Hotel: A stylish boutique hotel located in the Old Town Chinatown neighborhood.

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

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Northwest:

  • Craft Beer: Bring home some of the best craft beer from the region and share the Pacific Northwest’s unique beer culture with your friends and family.

  • Local Honey: Oregon is known for its high-quality honey, which makes a delicious and healthy gift.

  • Portland-made Soap: The region is home to many local soap makers, offering a variety of handmade soaps using natural and organic ingredients.

Local Culture and Customs of Northwest

Northwest is known for its friendly locals and vibrant culture. Here are some of the local customs and traditions in the region:

  • Recycling: The region is known for its strong environmental and sustainability culture, with a focus on recycling and reducing waste.

  • Locavore Food Culture: The Pacific Northwest has a vibrant local food scene, with a focus on using fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

Best Time to Visit Northwest

The best time to visit Northwest is in the summer and early fall, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northwest

Here are some do’s and don’ts when visiting Northwest:

Do:

  • Explore the natural beauty of the region.

  • Try the local food and drink.

  • Be respectful of the region’s culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.

  • Be rude or disrespectful to the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northwest

Northwest is a safe and friendly destination, but it’s always essential to take the necessary precautions when traveling. Here are some safety tips:

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

  • Use common sense and take the necessary precautions when hiking or participating in outdoor activities.

Health in Northwest

Northwest has excellent healthcare facilities, but it’s still essential to take care of your health when traveling. Here are some tips:

  • Stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.

  • Use sunscreen and wear appropriate clothing when participating in outdoor activities.

Getting to Northwest: Transportation Options and Logistics

Northwest is easily accessible from different parts of the country and international destinations. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Northwest

  • Portland International Airport (PDX)

  • Eugene Airport (EUG)

Bus Stations Near Northwest

  • Portland Greyhound Station

  • Eugene Bus Station

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train: There are several Amtrak stations in the region, including in Portland and Eugene.

  • Car Rentals: Renting a car is an excellent option for exploring the region at your convenience.

How to Get Around in Northwest

Northwest has a well-connected public transportation system, making it easy to get around the region. Here are some transportation options:

  • Light Rail: Portland has a light rail system that connects the city and the suburbs.

  • Bus: The region has a comprehensive bus network, making it easy to get around.

  • Bike: Portland is a bike-friendly city, with a bike-sharing system and many bike lanes.

Where to Go Next from Northwest: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time and want to explore the surrounding areas, here are some nearby destinations to consider:

  • Seattle, Washington: A vibrant and diverse city located a three-hour drive from Portland.

  • Crater Lake National Park: A stunning national park featuring a deep blue lake and breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.

  • Cannon Beach: A picturesque beach town located on the Oregon coast, known for Haystack Rock and its striking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Conclusion

Northwest is a beautiful region with a lot to offer. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, this travel guide has everything you need to plan a memorable trip. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff or nature enthusiast, Northwest will captivate you with its beauty, culture and unique offerings.

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