The Pacific Northwest is an incredible part of the country to visit with your family this summer. With so many unique cities, hiking trails, and lakes or beaches to visit, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re hoping for a hike with stunning views, a day at the golf course, or a relaxing boat ride on the lake, we gathered a list of places to visit when vacationing in the Pacific Northwest. *Spoiler alert* - you’ll definitely want to extend your vacation once you see how impressive each stop on your trip is.
Here are some things to do on a vacation in the Pacific Northwest.
1. Hike Mount Rainier
Mount Rainier is one of our favorite places in the Pacific Northwest - we even named one of our best-selling, wind and water-resistant puffer jackets after this natural beauty. Located in Washington, this infamous mountain is an active volcano, the tallest mountain in the Pacific Northwest, and the most glaciated peak in the US. Hike a variety of different trails, visit Reflection Lake, and see natural waterfalls throughout your breathtaking hike.
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2. See Crater Lake
The photos just don’t do it justice - you have to see it for yourself. Formed by a collapsed volcano that took place over 7,000 years ago, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States.
Looking for a place to lay your head down after a long day of exploring? Rest up at one of the many lodging or camping places in Crater Lake National Park. Along with your camera, trail mix, and other hiking essentials, don’t forget to bring your warmer coats and layers because the weather is often much cooler in the park and around the lake.
3. Visit Victoria
As the ‘Oldest City in the PNW’, this city has so much charm that it’s a place you just can’t pass up. Victoria is a blend of British and Asian cultures, where afternoon tea rituals, sailing, whale watching, and walking through beautiful gardens (including a butterfly garden) are all part of the way of life in this BC city.
4. Shop at Pike Place Market
Make a plan to stop at the iconic Pike Place Market in Seattle - one of the country’s oldest farmers markets. Wander through the market where you can get fresh produce, fish, baked bread, and other locally sourced goods from the Crafts Market. And don’t forget to snag a freshly brewed cup of coffee at the very first Starbucks.
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5. Explore Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach has nearly four miles of sandy beaches with the iconic Haystack Rock, rising 235 feet straight into the air. Take in the breathtaking views that Cannon Beach and the surrounding beaches have to offer by exploring the trails. This Oregon coast beach is a must-see during your Pacific Northwest vacation.
6. See Mount St. Helens
Mount St. Helens is an active stratovolcano located in Washington, most famous for its massive eruption in 1980. Visitors can hike, climb, zip-line, and fish while taking in all the beautiful views at Mount St. Helens.
7. Visit Portland
Portland is considered one of the best places to visit in the Pacific Northwest. Full of farmers markets, infamous book stores, the International Rose Test Garden, and the Art Museum, Portland has many different attractions that are sure to make your visit both memorable and adventurous.
8. Get Active Outdoors in Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island is a beautiful place to live your active island lifestyle. Try sailing, ziplining, water sports, and more on this unique island. Take in all the incredible views as you unwind and recenter on your vacation.
9. Explore Coeur d’Alene
Coeur d’Alene is the ideal lakeside retreat for your Pacific Northwest vacation plans. This area has a handful of restaurants, golf courses, ziplines, campsites, and other lodging options available for your stay. Coeur d’Alene is filled with attractive views, making it the ideal spot for your next vacation destination.
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10. Visit Seattle
We may be a tad biased, but Seattle has it all.
Famous for the Space Needle landmark, Starbucks, and Microsoft, Seattle is the largest city in the Pacific Northwest, and has everything from natural beauty to major sports teams, to a booming arts and culture scene. Take the ferry for the ultimate Seattle tourist experience and enjoy all the spectacular views.
Cutter & Buck is a proud ambassador of the pioneering spirit that resides in the Pacific Northwest. We’re happy to share the culture of the Pacific Northwest with anyone looking to smash bucket-list items, lovers of epic days, and the up-for-anything instigators. We’ll see you out there, adventurers.
