Seattle: Morning at Pike Place Market. Afternoon at Seattle Center: Space Needle for views, then Chihuly Garden and Glass. Evening: Fresh seafood dinner. Consider a short ferry ride to Bainbridge Island for skyline views at sunset.
Portland: Morning: Powell's City of Books, Pioneer Courthouse Square. Afternoon: Pearl District galleries/boutiques, food cart lunch. Visit the tranquil Portland Japanese Garden. Evening: Farm-to-table dinner, Portland's craft beer scene.
These itineraries make the most of a 2-3 day visit to Seattle or Portland.
Day 1: Explore Downtown Seattle: Pike Place Market, Waterfront, Seattle Great Wheel. Discover Pioneer Square, take an "Underground Tour."
Day 1: Downtown and Pearl District: Powell's City of Books, Portland Japanese Garden, International Rose Test Garden.
Days 1-3: Seattle: City exploration. Visit Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, MoPOP, and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Take a scenic ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
Days 1-4: Seattle & Surroundings: Explore Seattle's major attractions. Consider a day trip to the San Juan Islands or Mount Rainier National Park.
For longer stays (a month or more), think about focusing on one major city like Seattle or Portland. Rent an apartment or vacation rental to experience life as a local.
Experience life as a local resident.
Take numerous extended day trips or weekend excursions from your base.
Thoroughly explore surrounding areas at your leisure.
Tailor your Pacific Northwest adventure to your specific passions with these themed itineraries.
Begin in Seattle's Pioneer Square, taking an "Underground Tour" to learn about the city's early history. Visit the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.
Experience Portland's food cart culture with dedicated tours. Take a Pike Place Market food tour in Seattle, sampling fresh seafood and local delicacies.
Dedicate time to the premier national parks: Mount Rainier, Olympic, North Cascades, and Crater Lake. Use a trail app to find trails matching your skill level.
Seattle: Visit the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), Pacific Science Center, and Woodland Park Zoo. Enjoy a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel.
Seattle: Explore the Seattle Art Museum (SAM), Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP). Wander through the historic architecture of Pioneer Square.
The Pacific Northwest suits various budgets, from careful travel to luxurious escapes.
Accommodation: Stay in hostels (e.g., Green Tortoise Hostel in Seattle) or use budget motels. Embrace camping in national forests or state parks to save on lodging.
Accommodation: Mix of mid-range hotels, reputable vacation rentals, or charming B&Bs. Look for properties offering good value and convenient locations.
Accommodation: Stay in 4-5 star hotels, upscale boutique hotels, or renowned resorts (e.g., The Heathman Hotel in Portland, Salish Lodge & Spa).
Travel during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices on flights and accommodation.
Seek relaxation at hot springs retreats like Breitenbush Hot Springs (Oregon) or Sol Duc Hot Springs (Washington).
Each season brings a distinct character to the Pacific Northwest, bringing unique experiences.
This is the top time for all outdoor activities: hiking in high elevations, camping, water sports (kayaking, paddleboarding), and backpacking.
Enjoy wine harvest festivals and mushroom foraging. Hiking at lower elevations stays pleasant.
This is the prime season for skiing and snowboarding at resorts on Mount Hood, Stevens Pass, or Mount Baker.
Best for seeing wildflowers, including the famous Skagit Valley tulips (late March/April). Gardens burst into bloom.
Parades, carnival rides, floral displays.
Hydroplane races, Blue Angels air show, parades.
Many cultural events happen throughout the year. Check local event calendars.
Embrace the off-season by packing appropriate rain gear and focusing on indoor attractions.
Enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds. Consider a storm-watching trip on the Oregon or Washington coast in winter, where dramatic waves and cozy lodges create an unique experience.
Many indoor attractions, like museums and breweries, open year-round.
Expect cooler temperatures and more rain, especially in lowlands.
Some high-elevation roads and facilities in national parks may close due to snow.
