Best of the Northwest Travel Ideas

Explore our handcrafted guides that feature some of the best experiences the Northwest has to offer. These guides include expert tips, insider recommendations, and of course our hand picked favorite locally-owned businesses to enjoy.

Idaho Botanical Garden

Best Northwest Display Gardens

Discover the best of the many glorious display gardens found in the Pacific Northwest and become inspired! Whether you are looking for peace and quiet or garden inspiration, you’ll be sure to find it in of these favorites.

 

12 Favorite Covered Bridges to Visit on an Autumn Day

Autumn in a great time to visit the many covered bridges in the southern Willamette Valley. There are so many clustered in the same general area that makes it easy to find your favorite.

 

Best Stops When Visiting the Columbia River Gorge

There are so many exciting places to see in the Columbia River Gorge. While you can hike to the top for spectacular views, there are plenty of options for those that want to enjoy the natural beauty without the strenuous hike too.

 

12 Fun Destination Specialty Museums and Collections around Washington

These destination specialty museums offer looks into the fun and quirky, or are lesser-known small museums well worth a visit

 

Discover Historic Forts

Discover the many unique forts displaying the history of the Pacific Northwest from the early 19th century fur trading outposts to early 20th century military forts.

 

See the Stars at These NW Observatories

Want to get out and explore your universe? You can truly explore at one of these amazing observatories. In the summer you can attend an outdoor star gazing party, or choose to visit one of the many indoor planetarium shows available the rest of the year. Never stop exploring!

 

Favorite Independent Bookstores

Discover the personalized service and community spirit in these favorite bookstores found all over the Pacific Northwest.

 

12 Destination Pacific Northwest Bed and Breakfasts & Inns

When you need a place to escape to that is truly special and are looking for a little bit of luxury on your getaway, we’ve found 12 to tempt you.

 

7 Memorable Christmas Boat Parades in the Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest has a unique tradition of life on the water. Christmas is a special time to celebrate with the family watching brightly decorated ships parading up and down the waterways for all to enjoy.

 

Storm Watching in these Fabulous Getaway Spots

Stormy weather makes for a wonderful weekend getaway along the Pacific Northwest coastline. Grab a book, a bottle of wine, and prepare yourself for a relaxing time watching the stormy ocean waves from one of these getaways.

 

Oregon Wineries With Spectacular Views

The Oregon landscape is overflowing with spectacular vistas and most Oregon wineries take full advantage of their amazing settings overlooking the natural beauty that is Oregon. Taste test your way through some of Oregon’s most stunning landscapes at these Oregon wineries.

 

9 Scenic Spots for Autumn Color Around Washington

Washington has such variety, it is no wonder its residents are so in love with the outdoors. In Autumn, the variety of trees and landscapes provide fall color from seaside to the highest peaks, urban cities to remote lakes. Find your piece of Autumn beauty in Washington state.

 

15 Scenic Spots to See Autumn Color in Oregon

Oregon has such a varied landscape with many options for scenic views of Autumn’s beauty. From orchards, vineyards, parks, and stunning views along the many waterways, Oregon has Autumn beauty in abundance.

 

13 Northwest Landscapes That are Out-of-this-World

The Pacific Northwest has a unique geologic history that has created a unique landscape that can look right out-of-this-world!

 

Golf Your Way Through the Northwest at These Beautiful Courses

The Pacific Northwest offers some of the most scenic golf courses to be found. Tour the Northwest on the links and you will get a true feel for the varied and stunning scenery the Northwest has to offer.

 

16 Movies Filmed on Location in the Pacific Northwest

The Natural Beauty of the Pacific Northwest has long been a perfect location for shooting a western movie. There are many locations you can visit if you want to follow in the footsteps of iconic western movie stars.

 

Day Trip from Portland: Natural Volcanic Bridges and Trout Lake

An easy day trip from Portland is exploring the natural bridges hike near Trout Lake, WA and the many beautiful views along the way.

 

Books About Exploring the Pacific Northwest

Whether you are looking to explore the Northwest through its history, looking to take a road trip, or ready to head out on a hike, we’ve gathered great resources to help you plan you trip to the beautiful Pacific Northwest.

 

15 of the Most Beautiful Bridges to Photograph in the Pacific Northwest

Grab your camera and head out on a road trip to explore the many beautiful bridges around the Pacific Northwest. This just might inspire you to hit the road!

 

11 Oscar Worthy Movies Filmed in the NW

The beautiful Pacific Northwest has been the film location of many Oscar-worthy movies. With the wide variety of landscapes in the NW offering backdrops from big city to small town, oceans to desert, its no wonder. How many of these Academy Award nominated movies have you seen?


 

Special Stops for the Train Enthusiast

Love trains? The Pacific Northwest has many options for you to explore including wine trains, dinner trains, holiday trains, scenic excursion trains, museums, and trolley rides. Something for everyone!

 

9 Best Rivers for Rafting in Oregon

Choose your Summer adventure out on the beautiful rivers of Oregon now with Oregon River Experiences

 

Get the Right Pass for Your NW Adventure

It can be difficult to know which pass you’ll need for each park, especially if you’re road-tripping. Here’s a simple guide to the most important ones you could use this year.

 

5 Great Dog Friendly Hotels in Portland

Want to stay in Portland but don’t want to leave your pet behind? Check out some of Portland’s most dog-friendly hotels.

 

Best Northwest Flower Festivals

During spring, flowers bloom all over the Northwest. Plan your weekends or vacations around the schedules of your favorite flower’s festival.

 

Check Out These Amazing Abandoned Places in the Northwest

Like exploring abandoned places? The Northwest is home to a wealth of them, including these you should be sure to check out when you’re in the area.

 

Best Speakeasy Bars in Seattle

Want to enjoy a drink in a place that feels as if you’ve stepped back in time? Check out these top speakeasy bars in Seattle

 

5 Best Staycations: Portland


If you’re in the Portland area, you have an abundance of fantastic ‘staycations’ at your fingertips, including these top picks.

 

5 Great Dog-Friendly Hotels: Seattle


Traveling with your four-legged friend can be a hassle at times, but in a city that’s a bit crazy for their canines like Seattle, there are some great pet-friendly hotels like these.

 

 

How to Experience Cowboy Culture in the Northwest

If you’d like to experience some of the Northwest’s best cowboy culture, we’ve got some great ideas for you.

 

 

Top Outdoor Adventures in the Spectacular Central Cascades of Oregon

The Central Cascades of Oregon offers a wide range of outdoor adventures, including these top experiences.

 

 

Choosing the Best Alaska Inside Passage Cruise

Want to take the cruise of a lifetime through Alaska’s Inside Passage? Here’s a look at some of the very best options.

 

 

What To See in Bend, Oregon Like a Local

Visiting Bend? Experience It Through the Eyes of a Local

 

 

What to See On Alaskan Cruise + Must-Visit Alaska Cruise Destinations

Thinking about an Alaska cruise? Here’s what you might see and the best destinations to visit.

 

 

Best Breweries in Bend, Oregon

Bend is one of the top beer cities in the U.S., but which breweries are its very best?

 

 

Best of the Northwest Columbia Gorge Favorites, Open Now!

Some of our favorite Gorge sights have reopened following the devastating Eagle Creek fire, including these.

 

 

Best Spots to Spend New Year’s Eve in the Northwest

Haven’t made New Year’s Eve plans yet? Check out the many outstanding options to celebrate in the Northwest!

 

 

Best Ways to Enjoy Christmas in the Northwest

Looking for something fun to do this holiday season? You’ve got lots of options here in the Northwest.

 

 

Unforgettable Northwest Winter Escapes

Winter is just around the corner, and this year why not make the most of it by enjoying an unforgettable escape in the Northwest?

 

 

Unique Airbnbs For an Unforgettable ‘Staycation’ in the Northwest

In need of an escape but don’t have enough time to travel far? How about a staycation at one of these unique Airbnbs around the Northwest!

 

 

The Northwest’s Best Spots For Playing in the Snow

When it’s time to get out and play in the snow, these are some of the best spots to head to in the Northwest.

 

 

Best Holiday Light Displays & Christmas Light Tours in the Northwest

There are lots of ways to enjoy the holiday lights in the Northwest – with switches flipping on soon, start planning now to take in some of the best.

 

 

What To Do in November in The Northwest

What’s there to do in November in the Northwest? From film, arts food festivals and more, get the scoop here!

 

 

The Northwest’s Best Halloween Parties & Events!

No Halloween plans? Check out these great parties and events around the Northwest!

 

 

The Northwest’s Best Thanksgiving Getaways, Dinner Included!

Want to enjoy a Thanksgiving feast, and more, without all the hard work? Consider one of these great Thanksgiving getaways, dinner included!

 

 

Discover Portland’s Best Spots for Coffee and Dessert

Want to enjoy savoring a delicious dessert paired with outstanding coffee in Portland? You’ll find the best of the best at some of our favorite spots.

 

 

11 Bone-Chilling Ghost Tours To Take in the Northwest

What better way to celebrate than season than by taking a ghost tour?

 

 

Northwest’s Best Spots for Wildlife Viewing

Here’s where you can find all sorts of wildlife in the Northwest, including feathers, fur and fins

 

 

Where to Find the Northwest’s Best Unusual Offbeat Attractions

Want to go beyond the typical tourist attractions? Check out some of the Northwest’s best offbeat and unusual attractions for entertainment you won’t soon forget.

 

 

Northwest’s Best Oktoberfests

Can’t get to Germany for Oktoberfest? The Northwest hosts a number of fantastic events of its own – some that can even rival Munich’s!

 

 

Best Haunted Northwest Attractions For Big Frights This Halloween Season

This Halloween season, be sure to check out one of these haunted sites and attractions around the Northwest, for a holiday you’ll never forget.

 

 

The Northwest’s Top Travel Destinations for Labor Day

Where are you going this Labor Day Weekend? Don’t miss your chance for one last summer hurrah!

 

 

5 Amazing Day Trips From Seattle

If you’re ready to escape the city, take one of these amazing day trips from Seattle.

 

 

Best Spots For Fall Camping in the Northwest

Camping doesn’t have to stop once summer is over, plan to camp this fall at one of these amazing Northwest campgrounds

 

 

8 Must-Experiences This Fall in the Pacific Northwest

Start making your plans for this fall with these must-experiences in the Pacific Northwest.

 

 

8 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do in Portland

While visiting Portland, be sure to stray off the well-beaten tourist path occasionally by experiencing some of these more unique things to do.

 

 


7 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do in Seattle

If you’re looking for some more unique things to do while in the Emerald City, consider these fabulous options you probably didn’t know about!

 

 


Where to Find the Best Spots in the Northwest for Wild Berry Picking

If you like berries, now is the time to pick your own, with multiple places for wild picking throughout the Northwest.

 

 


Where to Find the Northwest’s Most Spectacular Lavender Festivals

If you like lavender and fun, don’t miss these great Northwest lavender festivals!

 

 

Where to Find the Northwest’s Most Amazing Buffets: From Restaurants to Cruises and Casinos

If you like buffets, be sure to check out these awesome offerings!

 

 

Must-Experience Hikes in the Northwest

Don’t miss these spectacular Northwest hikes!

 

 

Top Farm Tours To Take in the Northwest

If you want to find out more about where your food comes from and have some fun while doing it, check out some of these fantastic Northwest farm tours.

 

 

6 Amazing Northwest Wine Must-Experiences For Vino Enthusiasts

If you’re a wine lover who is in, or will be visiting the Northwest, be sure to put these must-experiences on your to do list.

 

 

Top Northwest Ghost Towns to Explore This Summer

The Northwest is home to a number of fascinating ghost towns, including these places in Washington, Oregon and Idaho that make for some fun exploring this summer.

 

 

Top Spots For Beachcombing in the Northwest

The Northwest is home to many exceptional places for beach combing, including these top spotswith everything from sand dollars and driftwood to agates and fishing floats waiting to be found.

 

 

8 Northwest Events Worth Traveling To This Summer

If you’d like to plan a trip around some of the Northwest’s best events this summer,  check out some of these impressive happenings in our latest post: 8 Northwest Events Worth Traveling To This Summer.

 

 

Fun Ways To Get Out on the Water in the Northwest If You Don’t Have a Boat

Even if you don’t have a boat, there are many ways to get out on the water in the Northwest, from cruising the rivers to sailing the Pacific and everything in between.

 

 

The Northwest’s Top Spots for Beach Camping

The Northwest is home to some fantastic places for camping on the on the beach, including these spectacular destinations.

 

 

Best Artisan Shopping Districts in the Northwest

The Northwest is home to a multitude of outstanding artisan shopping opportunities,  these markets, districts and more offer some of the best of the best.

 

 

5 Northwest Road Trips For Exploring Many of the Region’s Most Spectacular Highlights

One of the best ways to see the highlights of the Northwest is to take one of these spectacular road trips.

 

 

The Northwest’s Best Free Campgrounds

The Northwest is home to a number of outstanding free campgrounds. If you don’t mind roughing it a bit, these campgrounds offer a fabulous wilderness experience without the fees.

 

 

Where to Find the Best Soups & Chowders in the Northwest

There is nothing like a hot cup of soup or a steaming bowl of chowder on a cold, wet day, and we’ve got you covered when to comes to searching out the very best soups and chowders in the Northwest.

 

 

Breweries in the Northwest Beer Lovers Won’t Want to Miss

The Northwest is home to some of the nation’s top breweries. For the best of the best, be sure to stop by one or more of these top picks.

 

 

8 Amazing Hot Springs Getaways in the Northwest

The Northwest is a geothermic wonderland, with numerous natural hot springs found throughout the region. If you’re looking for a fun getaway, these hot springs offer the ideal spot to plan your escape around.

 

 

Experience the Northwest’s Top Beach Towns This Summer

Before you know it, summer will have returned, and those wonderfully warm days that are ideal for a visit to the beach. When putting together your plans for the season, be sure to include one of these top Northwest beach towns.

 

 

Where To Find The Best Coffee in the Northwest

The Northwest is famous for its coffee, and these spots around the region offer the best of the best for your must-experience list.

 

 

In Need of a Vacation But Short on Time? Take One of These Northwest Daycations Instead

All you need is one day off from your regular routine, and you can be enjoying one of these amazing daycations in the Northwest.

 

 

Most Spectacular National and State Parks in the Northwest

The Northwest is known for the outdoors, and nowhere does it shine more than in the best Northwest national & state parks, considered to be some of the best in the country.

 

 

Most Magnificent Waterfalls in the Northwest

If you enjoy chasing waterfalls, it would be hard to find a place better than the Northwest. Here are our ideas for the best Northwest waterfalls to hike, photograph, and admire.

 

 

Best Spots for Date Night in the Northwest

There is always Valentine’s Day, but of course, you don’t have limit yourself to this romantic holiday to plan something spectacular that she or he will never forget. These spots for date night in the Northwest are sure to make for an incredible evening together.

 

 

Galentine’s Day Escapes in the Northwest

Being single on Valentine’s Day can be fabulous on a Galentine’s Day Escapes, enjoying time away with the girls. There’s no reason to have to suffer through any holiday!

 

 

Northwest Restaurants with the Best Views

From towering skyline views to river, lake, and harborside reflections, if you are looking for a tasty meal paired with an incredible backdrop, these Northwest restaurants with great views are a must.

 

 

Top Spots for Romance in the Northwest

Whether it’s a birthday, Valentine’s day, or anniversary – what better way to celebrate than by enjoying a romantic escape in the beautiful Northwest for a dreamy getaway.

 

 

Best Movies and TV Shows Filmed in the Northwest

With such spectacular scenery, it’s no surprise that films & TV shows have been shot in the Northwest. If you’d like to experience firsthand some of those iconic destinations, this list is sure to inspire an unforgettable itinerary. Did you know all of these movies & TV shows were filmed in the Northwest?

 

 

Best Northwest Food and Wine Trails

Whether you want a road trip, a weekend adventure, or are just obsessively interested in certain Northwest flavors, we’ve got you covered. From beer and wine to cheese and oysters, come hungry and explore the best Northwest food and wine trails.

 

 

Best Factory Tours In the Northwest

Factory tours are a great way to learn more about a company and how some of your favorite products are made – and here in the Northwest, we make everything from airplanes to cheese and chocolate. Pick your favorite or learn about something new at our picks for the best factory tours in the Northwest.

 

 

Best Places to Get Married in the Northwest

Whether you’d like to say your “I dos” while immersed in magnificent natural scenery, or in a beautiful indoor setting, you’ll find a myriad of options to choose from, including these top considerations for the best places to get married in the Northwest.

 

 

Best Places for Storm Watching in the Northwest

The Northwest coastline is ruggedly beautiful in the winter, when a storm blows off the Pacific, creating a raw and captivating spectacle. Come join us at the best places for storm watching in the Northwest.

 

 

Best Northwest Roadside Attractions

While some may call them tourist traps, most appreciate the nostalgia of the experience and enjoy a quick selfie at our list of the best Northwest roadside attractions.

 

 

Best Holiday Lights Displays in the Northwest

There’s nothing like a sparkling holiday light display to warm a damp, cold Northwest night. From zoos and gardens to special neighborhood experience, we’ve rounded up our picks of the best Northwest holiday light displays to enjoy.

 

 

Best Northwest Small Town Weekend Getaways

From tiny high desert hamlets ringed by snow-tipped peaks to weather-worn villages perched along the seashore, there’s nothing like a small town getaway. We’ve rounded up our favorite small town Northwest weekend getaways.

 

 

Best Northwest Scenic Viewpoints

The Northwest has something spectacular; it is filled with an endless variety and beauty. We’ve gathered our list of the most scenic outlooks in the Northwest – from sweeping sea shores to towering mountain passes.

 

 

Most Underrated Attractions in the Northwest

we’ve compiled a list of our favorite lesser-known regional gems that are also well-worth exploring – consider it your patriotic duty to explore the best of the most underrated attractions in the Northwest.

 

 

Best of Northwest Camping & Glamping

There are plenty of occasions to pitch a tent in the Northwest. From free to luxury, consider these picks as our choices for the best Northwest camping and glamping.

 

 

Best of Northwest Wine Destinations

The Northwest has only recently become a major wine producer. Today, over 1,000 wineries produce unique wines across the region. Here’s our guide to explore the best Northwest wine destinations.

 

 

Best of Northwest Lighthouses

A trip down the Northwest Coast’s Highway 101 isn’t complete without stopping to view its historic lighthouses. Enjoy a drive and savor some of the best lighthouses in the Northwest.

 

 

Best of Northwest Corn Mazes & Pumpkin Patches

One of our favorite fall traditions is heading to a nearby farm – it’s harvest season! From mystery mazes to pumpkin patches and all the tasty trimmings, here are the Best Corn Mazes & Pumpkin Patches the Northwest has to offer..

 

 

Best of Lewis and Clark

Want to learn more about the historic Lewis & Clark Expedition? Take our tour of the best Lewis & Clark related attractions to trip back in time for the original Columbia River experience.

 

 

Best of Northwest Skiing

Whether you want to downhill ski, snowboard, snowshoe, or just relax in the lodge – we have our insider tips for the best Northwest skiing for fun in the snow.

 

 

Unique Places to Stay in the Northwest

From luxurious castles to tiny houses and teepees, consider enjoying a night’s rest at one of our suggested unique places to stay in the Northwest.

 

 

Best of Northwest Farmers Markets

Locally grown fruits and vegetables, artisan meats, breads, and more – experience it all at 6 of the best of the Northwest farmers markets.

 

 

Best of the Northwest Tea

Move over, java! The third wave of tea has started in the Northwest, so let’s pour a cuppa and explore the best of the Northwest tea scene.

 

 

Best of the Northwest Art Museums

The northwest is blessed by an abundance of visual arts – explore our list of the best Northwest art museums and see what’s on display at a gallery near you.

 

 

Best of the Northwest Cruises

You don’t have to go far to have a relaxing cruise experience – enjoy some of our favorite Northwest cruises. These experiences are like no other.

 

 

Unique Dishes to Try in the Northwest

The Northwest has long been a destination for foodies who want top farm-to-table cuisine. Explore our creative picks for the best unique Northwest dishes – foods you just won’t find elsewhere

 

 

Best of Northwest Scenic Drives

Find a good drive relaxing? Then you’re going to love our tips on scenic Northwest drives – take your time, as these trips are full of picture postcard sights.

 

 

Best of Kid-Friendly Northwest

From an ancient High Desert lava bed to a quirky kite museum on the coast, the Northwest is filled with fun adventures for the whole family. Take a look at our picks for the best Northwest kid-friendly attractions.

 

 

Best of Northwest Cider

The Northwest is The epicenter of the cider revolution sweeping our nation. From innovative brews to traditional handcrafted creations, come explore our expert picks on the best of Northwest cider.

 

 

Best of Northwest Spirits

From infused liquers to malt whiskies and vodkas, the Northwest has a variety of makers of distilled spirits. Learn more about their curious culture with our guide to the best of Northwest spirits.