The fall is an amazing time to visit the PNW. With perfect crisp and cool weather and fall colors, there are many best fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest to visit. From major cities to amazing places to hiking, you will have a great time no matter where you visit.
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Best Fall Destinations in the Pacific Northwest: Washington
Westport
By Bri of Bria Abroad
Fall is the perfect time to visit Westport, WA, not just for the weather but also for its fishing, bird watching and surfing. It is one of the best fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Two days are enough to get the feel of Westport, making it an ideal weekend trip. Westport is about an hour and a half drive from Olympia, two hours from Portland and just under three hours from Seattle.
There are a couple of accommodation options in Westport that cater to different preferences and budgets, including charming cottages with marina views and historic bed and breakfasts. As a small town, it is easy to get around once you’re there. Westport is a budget friendly location, especially when compared to other beach towns. A stay at a cottage in the fall, for example, will run between $140 and $200 per night.
Fall is great for fishing in Westport, as salmon and other fish species are plentiful. In addition, the fall migration brings a variety of bird species to the area, perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts. If that’s not your thing, Westport is known for its great surfing conditions, and fall often brings consistent waves.
Seafood lovers, rejoice. The fall season brings a bounty of fresh seafood, and everything is delicious. You can enjoy local catches at one of the many seafood restaurants.
Snoqualmie
By Sheri of Park & Roam
If you’re looking for one of the best fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest, Snoqualmie, WA, is a hidden gem you don’t want to miss. It’s just a short 45-minute drive from Seattle, making it an easy day trip or a quick weekend escape. A car is handy, but if you have the extra time, you can also take the train or bus.
Snoqualmie is known for its stunning waterfalls, especially Snoqualmie Falls. This 268-foot waterfall is breathtaking any time of year, but in the fall, with the leaves turning vibrant shades of red and orange, it’s pretty magical.
You can easily spend a day hiking the nearby trails, taking in the fall colors, and snapping some great photos. And if you’re into trains, the Northwest Railway Museum is a must-visit.
For places to stay, there are some options around Snoqualmie that won’t break the bank; however, the more affordable motels and vacation homes will be located on the outskirts of town. The Salish Lodge & Spa is a bit of a splurge, but totally worth it if you’re looking for something special and want to stay in the downtown area and near Snoqualmie Falls.
Fall is the perfect time to visit Snoqualmie because the crowds thin out, the weather is cool and crisp, and the scenery is absolutely stunning. Plus, it’s easy on the wallet, especially if you’re just visiting for a few days.
Snohomish
By Tabatha of Travel Compositions
Snohomish, Washington is a great weekend getaway and one of the best fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest. It’s rural farmland with limited public transportation, so you’ll need a car to get around. Stroll downtown Snohomish holding a cup of pumpkin spice latte from one of the local coffee shops. The main street is lined with antique and boutique shops where you can find autumn home decor and outfits to stay warm and look cute in the seasonal weather change.
If you time your visit right, you can attend the Sip & Stroll event, where shops remain open later and local wineries pour out samples of their signature wines. But the real reason you want to visit Snohomish in the fall is for the pumpkin patches. Snohomish has over 7 different pumpkin patches to visit, each with their own amenities and vibes.
What better way to celebrate autumn than picking out your own pumpkins straight from the field? Try freshly pressed apple cider or hot apple cider donuts. Kids will love the tractor train rides, climbing haystacks, or shooting an apple cannon. Don’t forget about getting lost in a corn maze!
If you want to face monsters, fight them at Zombie Paintball or join them on the Zombie Walk fundraiser. And of course you’ll find enough haunted houses to test your courage. The Snohomish Inn is going to be the only hotel within Snohomish town proper at about $150/nt. But you can also find vacation home rentals as an alternative option.
Mount Rainier National Park
By Jade of Namaste To Nihao
Mount Rainier National Park is a spectacular fall destination in the Pacific Northwest, offering a blend of stunning scenery and diverse activities. Whether you’re visiting for just one day or multiple days, you’ll find that most attractions are within a 10-30 minute drive of each other, making it easy to explore a variety of viewpoints and very family friendly. If you’re coming from out of town, a two-day stay is ideal to fully appreciate the national park’s beauty.
One unique feature of Mount Rainier is its breathtaking fall foliage. As the season changes and the weather becomes cooler, the park transforms into vibrant reds, oranges, and golds, creating a gorgeous backdrop that’s hard to find elsewhere in the world! This colorful viewpoint, coupled with the snow-capped peak of Mount Rainier, makes for unforgettable photos and experiences.
And if you need a break from the PNW’s rainy season, did you also know that SeaTac airport is a hub for direct flights to Hawaii everyday? Learn is it ethical to go to Hawaii and 10 ways to be a responsible visitor.
Mount Rainier is also budget-friendly. There are charming small towns like Ashford, Tacoma, and Enumclaw nearby, and Seattle is within a 2-hour drive, offering plenty of affordable accommodation options. If you have an America the Beautiful pass, you can enter the park for free with up to three additional people, which is a great way to save on entrance fees!
A car is necessary to explore Mount Rainier, as it provides the flexibility to visit various spots like Paradise Point and Sunrise Point, which are must-see panoramic locations within the park.
The best area to stay will depend on what you prefer. You could get a permit and camp at Mount Rainier or opt for staying at a hotel in Ashford or Enumclaw which provides easy access to the park and great local restaurants.
In terms of activities, don’t miss the scenic drive around Paradise Point, catching the dramatic views at Sunrise Point (during sunrise!), the incredible reflection of Mount Rainier at Reflection Lake, the huge trees in the Grove of the Patriarchs, and the full display of fall colors along the Naches Peak Loop Trail.
Fall is the perfect time to visit because the crowds thin out, and the cooler temperatures are comfortable for hiking and exploring. Plus, the transitioning fall colors add a magical touch to the already awe-inspiring landscapes of Mount Rainier, making it one of the best fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Whidbey Island
By Suzanne from Washington Discovered
Whidbey Island, Washington is one of the best fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest, where time seems to slow down. allowing you to unwind and truly relax. As the summer tourist season winds down, fall brings a quieter, more relaxing atmosphere with fewer crowds, making it perfect for a peaceful retreat.
There are many things to do on Whidbey Island in the fall. In September, the island celebrates Eat Local Month which features special events and farm tours, placing a spotlight on the many local businesses on the island.
You can take a stroll through one of the charming seaside towns such as Langley or Coupeville. Did you know that Coupeville is home to the movie, Practical Magic? They have many fall events to highlight this popular film.
You can also join in on some of the many fall activities such as pumpkin patches at one of the local farms, like K&R Farms, where they also feature a corn maze and sunflower field, alongside delicious ice cream and fresh, local produce. You must also make a stop at Greenbank Farm, where you can grab a slice of the phenomenal Whidbey Pie, then perhaps do a wine tasting and browse the art gallery next door.
Visiting Deception Pass State Park is an absolute must on any trip to the island. The famous Deception Pass Bridge connects Fidalgo Island to Whidbey Island, and is a popular spot for photos. The state park has many beautiful hiking trails and is a great place to consider camping on your trip. Ebey’s Landing is another must-visit if you want to find a hiking trail with a breathtaking view. Fall is the perfect time to explore Fort Casey right beside it.
Despite the rumors of Washington State raining quite a lot, you will be surprised to learn that Whidbey Island is in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, and receives much less rain than Seattle. As fall arrives, the weather cools down, bringing crisp, refreshing air, and a breathtaking display of colorful foliage as the leaves change into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
To make the most of your island getaway, we recommend staying for about 3-4 days. This will give you time to explore the island at a more leisurely pace and truly relax on your vacation.
There are two ways to get to Whidbey Island, by car or by ferry. If you are coming from Seattle, you can take the 20-minute ferry ride from Mukilteo to Clinton which is on the south end of the island. You can also choose to drive over Deception Pass Bridge to get to the north side of the island. Whidbey Island is the fourth longest island in the contiguous United States and takes about 1 hour to drive from the northern to the southern end, so you will need a car during your visit.
Some of the best places to stay on Whidbey Island are at Captain Whidbey, a popular hotel on the water in Coupeville with stunning views, or Comforts of Whidbey, a cozy bed and breakfast that is open through November, located on the south end of the island in Langley.
Accommodations can cost anywhere from $150 or more, with dining out typically starting at about $13/per person per meal depending on the restaurant. There is plenty to do on the island for those on a budget, from the many outdoor hiking trails to explore, to the fall festivities all throughout the island.
Best Fall Destinations in the Pacific Northwest: Oregon
Portland
By Sydney of Sydney Brown Travels
Fall in Portland means stunning foliage, crisp air, and fewer crowds thus making it one of the best fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest. The city’s parks and gardens fill with autumn colors and there are several nearby hiking trails that both visitors and locals alike enjoy.
Depending on whether you plan to pair your visit with another PNW destination on this list, I recommend spending 3-4 days in Portland. This amount of time will allow you to fully experience its quirky neighborhoods, unique culinary scene, and nearby scenic recreation areas. This allows time for leisurely exploration and day trips–Willamette Valley is a great trip to add on to a Portland visit in the fall!
If you plan to stay within the city, a car isn’t necessary—Portland’s public transportation system is efficient, and most attractions are walkable or bikeable. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also not expensive to use compared to prices in cities like Seattle or LA. However, if you want to explore the Columbia River Gorge or the Oregon Coast at your leisure, renting a car is definitely a good idea.
I highly recommend touring Pittock Mansion, visiting the Rare Book Room at Powell’s City of Books, strolling through the International Rose Test Garden, and enjoying the multitude of food carts and microbreweries. Fall is also perfect for visiting the Portland Japanese Garden or taking a drive along the Historic Columbia River Scenic Highway to see Multnomah Falls.
My favorite neighborhood in Portland to use as a home base is located just across the Willamette River from Downtown. Known as the Central Eastside district, this neighborhood is a rapidly evolving area, known for its blend of old warehouses, quirky hotels, and a thriving food and drink scene. Central Eastside is also home to several great craft breweries, coffee shops, and some delicious chocolate factories.
One of the great things about Portland is you can experience it on pretty much any budget and still have a great time. As a general recommendation, I’d say that you can expect to spend $100-$250 per night for accommodations in Portland. Dining ranges from affordable food carts to pricier farm-to-table experiences, with average meals costing $10-$30. Public transit day passes are around $5. In total with accommodations included, I would recommend a budget of $135-$345 per person per day.
Hood River
By Jess of Uprooted Traveler
Hood River, Oregon is a wonderful place to visit year-round but is especially festive in the fall. Located at the base of Mount Hood along the Columbia River Gorge, this charming town provides endless outdoor adventures in autumn.
One of the best things to do in Hood River in autumn is to enjoy the Fruit Loop, a 35-mile scenic drive that passes over two dozen orchards, wineries, and breweries. Packer Orchards and Farm Place is a favorite in the fall, thanks to its charming pumpkin patch and U-pick apples.
If you visit in the second weekend of October, you’ll get to enjoy the town’s annual Hood River Valley Harvest Fest, where you can listen to live music, pursue wares from local farmers and artisans, and even participate in some fall-themed crafts.
Throughout fall, there’s plenty of activities that allow you to experience Hood River’s spectacular natural beauty. For example, hike to one of the 90 waterfalls lining the Columbia River Gorge, take a kayak or canoe out on Trillium Lake at the base of Mount Hood, or simply take in the fall foliage at the aptly named Panorama Point. Better yet, all of these activities are either free or very affordable!
A weekend is the perfect amount of time to explore Hood River. Consider making the Columbia Gorge Hotel your homebase for the weekend, which has the perfect cozy vibes to relax after all your adventures.
You can get to and around Hood River using public transit, however, getting a rental car will offer you the most flexibility. Hood River is one of the best fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Redmond
By Michelle of Roam Redmond Oregon
If you’re looking for a quieter, more budget-friendly alternative to Bend, consider Redmond, Oregon. This up-and-coming destination in Central Oregon has all the outdoor adventures and stunning landscapes of its more popular neighbor, but with fewer crowds and lower costs.
A 2.5-hour drive from Portland, or just minutes from the Redmond Municipal Airport, it’s perfect for a long weekend or even a full week vacation. A car is recommended to reach hiking trails and other outdoor activities, though downtown Redmond is pretty walkable.
You can stay at the SCP Redmond Hotel, which is well located in downtown and known for its eco-friendly approach. Vacation rentals are available throughout town as well.
Fall is the perfect time to enjoy Redmond’s hiking, mountain biking, and nearby fishing. The cooler temperatures make outdoor activities more comfortable, and the autumn colors add a special touch to the landscape. Be sure to check out the scenic trails of Smith Rock State Park.
As forementioned, Redmond is a more affordable option for those looking to experience Central Oregon’s high desert. Accommodations and dining are often less expensive than in Bend, and with all the free or low-cost outdoor activities, you can really stretch your budget on a Fall trip.
Best Fall Destinations in the Pacific Northwest: Idaho
Coeur d’Alene
By Dhwani from Trrips and Maps
Coeur d’Alene is the largest city in North Idaho and offers stunning fall scenery and family friendly activities. Its most popular attraction is Lake Coeur d’Alene, which is around 25 miles long. In autumn, the trees around the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene and the surrounding Coeur d’Alene National Forest display brilliant fall colors.
There are many ways to experience this fall beauty. You can take a cruise ($25/ adult) to enjoy scenic views and fall colors around the lake. You can hike a 2-mile loop around Tubb’s Hill which is located by the lake. For more fall foliage, you can walk/bike the North Idaho Centennial trail which offers views of Spokane river and Coeur d’Alene lake. All of these activities are easily accessible from the downtown area.
If you are up for driving around, then take a leisurely drive by the eastern shore on Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway. Or you can make a day trip to Lake Pend Oreille, which is the biggest and deepest lake of Idaho. Either way, it makes for one of the best fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
I would recommend a minimum of 2 days to explore attractions and activities near Coeur d’Alene and extend as needed. Staying in Coeur d’Alene downtown will be most convenient. You will easily find accommodations under $200 within 5 to 15 mins driving radius around CDA downtown. From PNW cities such as Seattle or Boise, Coeur d’Alene is within a day’s driving distance. Or you can fly into the Spokane airport which is 30 mins drive west of CDA.
Final Thoughts on Best Fall Destinations in the Pacific Northwest
As you can see, there are many amazing and best fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Aside from the list above, you may also want to check out other awesome places such as Olympic National Park, Boise, Bend, Salem, and more!
