Summertime in the Pacific Northwest is the best season to visit. From gorgeous mountain retreats to stunning cities full of fun things to do, you will not be sorry visiting the area in the summertime. The following are some of the best summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
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Best Summer Destinations in the Pacific Northwest: Washington
Snoqualmie, Washington
By Sheri of Sheri Nagle
Visiting Snoqualmie, Washing, is the perfect summer day trip from Seattle. Plan to spend at least a day or two exploring this quaint small town so you can enjoy it without feeling rushed.
A car is highly recommended, as Snoqualmie is about 25 miles east of Seattle. While you could take public transportation, having a vehicle will fully allow you to experience the area’s natural attractions. Consider staying in downtown Snoqualmie for its charming small-town feel and proximity to attractions. The Salish Lodge & Spa is a famous luxury option, but more budget-friendly hotels and Airbnbs are available.
With warm weather and long daylight hours, you can take advantage of plenty of outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, picnicking, and exploring nature. Thus Snoqualmie is one of the best summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Summer hiking is just one of the many activities to explore in Snoqualmie, and with trails like Little Si and Mount Si that provide stunning views of the Snoqualmie Valley, you won’t be disappointed. Plan a visit to Snoqualmie Falls, one of Washington’s most iconic waterfalls. Take a scenic railroad ride on the Snoqualmie Valley Railroad. Explore quirky attractions like the Northwest Railway Museum and the Snoqualmie Valley Venture outdoor escape room.
With some planning, you can enjoy a memorable summer getaway without breaking the bank. Snoqualmie has a range of affordable options for accommodations, dining, and activities. Many local businesses also offer summer discounts, making it a budget-friendly destination.
Sequim, Washington
By Melissa from Parenthood and Passports
Often referred to as the lavender capital of the world, Sequim is an easy weekend trip from Seattle. Located just two hours from Seattle, Sequim is a small town that is covered in a canopy of color and fragrance during the summer months.
Home to at least a dozen lavender farms, the town of just 8,200 residents is the perfect place to visit, particularly in July and August when the lavender fields are in peak bloom.
The third weekend in July, Sequim als hosts a lavender festival with live music, food, and vendors selling all kinds of lavender products. Visit one of the lavender fields to take photos amongst the fields of purple flowers or pick your own lavender bundle to take home as a fragrant reminder of your time in the Pacific Northwest.
The easiest way to get to Sequim is by car. You can stay in a cottage along the bay or even stay in a renovated train car at the Olympic Railway Inn for an extra unique experience.
While the small town makes for a relaxing weekend trip, Sequim can easily be combined with a visit to Olympic National Park, Port Angeles, or Port Townsend, for a more robust itinerary. No matter what, Sequin makes for one of the best summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Leavenworth, Washington
By Tabitha of Travel Compositions
Leavenworth is one of the best summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Tucked in the middle of the North Cascades is a quaint Bavarian themed town that will make you think you’ve been transported to the European Alps.
There is so much to do in Leavenworth during the summer. Shop to your heart’s content in boutique stores along foot-traffic only streets or find a new favorite artist at the Village Art in the Park market.
Take a fun ride on an alpine roller coaster or learn about the history of Leavenworth on a Bavarian walking tour. Hike the serene loop trail on Blackbird Island or find a more strenuous hike on one of the mountains nearby.
I am sure Leavenworth breaks some sort of winery per capita as everywhere you turn is place to grab a glass of local pinot, merlot, or chardonnay. The Leavenworth Summer Theater puts on plays in an outdoor theater with the mountains as a backdrop. The Sound of Music is always in production, of course!
I have made a yearly tradition of doing a float tour down the Wenatchee River. A tour company drops you off upstream with an inner tube and then you just float downstream for a couple of hours enjoying the peaceful mountainous terrain.
A Bavarian themed town wouldn’t be complete without being able to find plenty of beer and bratwursts, my favorite being Munchen Haus with 12 different flavors of bratwursts and 10 different flavors of mustard.
While the Amtrak train does make a stop in Leavenworth, I recommend coming by car to reach areas that aren’t in the heart of town like some wineries, horseback riding tours, and mountain hiking.
Leavenworth can be done as a day trip from Seattle but you can easily fill a weekend or even a week here. You’ll find budget accommodations at the Alpine RV & Campground for about $50/nt for a tent site or mid-range hotels within walking distance of the town center for around $175/nt.
Olympic National Park, Washington
By Claudia of My Adventures Across The World
Olympic National Park is a gorgeous place to visit year round, but if you like hiking the summer is definitely the best time to go. It is definitely one of the best summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
While some people venture there on day trips from Seattle, it is recommended to spend at least 3 full days in the park to make the most of everything it has to offer. You will need a car to explore, as public transportation in the area tends to be lacking and having a car will allow you to easily reach the various trails and beaches.
Some travelers who visit Olympic National Park opt to stay in Port Angeles, a small town about 2.5 hours drive from Seattle, and visit from there. This is a good option if you are looking for something a bit more budget friendly. However, to fully grasp the beauty of the park it is best to stay in one of the lodges or camping sites within the national park limits.
Lodges can be booked via the National Parks Reservations sites or even by phone; whereas campsites work on a first come first serve basis. If you opt to stay inside the park, the area of Lake Quinault is a great choice. It is particularly scenic, and will give you access to a great number of trails and all sorts of activities on the lake. You will find a historic lodge with an on-site restaurant and bar, and can stay in one of the rooms with views of the lake.
There are many things to do in Olympic National Park. If you are into hiking, you can count on an incredible variety of trails that offer stunning views of the mountains and that go through the thick forest. You can also spend time walking along the gorgeous beaches, kayaking on the lake, and relaxing in one of the hot springs.
Budget around $300 USD per day for your visit if you stay in a lodge and eat out. The costs can be significantly cheaper if you stay at a campground and prepare your own meals.
North Cascades, Washington
By Kate of Kate Outdoors
Located just 2 hours north of Seattle, the North Cascades are the perfect PNW summer escape for hikers and adventure seekers on a budget. This picturesque mountain range offers endless miles of hiking trails, turquoise lakes, and wildflower views during the summer.
Three days is the perfect amount of time to spend exploring the North Cascades. The best way to get there from Seattle is to take I-5 north to WA-530 to State Highway 20- aka the North Cascades Scenic Byway. This is one of the most scenic drives in the PNW, so plan to drive all the way from Marblemount to the old-Western style town of Winthrop to get the full experience.
Summer is the prime hiking season in the North Cascades thus making it one of the best summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest. There are countless trails to choose from for hikers with all levels of experience, including the Thunder Knob Trail, Diablo Lake Trail, and Blue Lake. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can head out on Ross Lake or Diablo Lake for some paddle boarding or kayaking.
To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the North Cascades and keep your trip budget-friendly, opt to camp. Make reservations at the Colonial Creek Campground for $24/night to have access to water activities on Diablo Lake and a variety of hiking trails right from camp. If you’re looking for comfier accommodations, you can find resorts and cabins at a variety of price points in Winthrop.
San Juan Islands, Washington
By Meghan of Meghan the Traveling Teacher
Wildlife lovers will find that the San Juan Islands are one of the best summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest. This archipelago of islands is about an hour and a half drive, plus an hour and a half ferry north of Seattle. They are most famous for the orcas that live there year-round, but the summer is the best time to visit due to the excellent weather and wildlife. The San Juan Islands are home to foxes, seals, otters, porpoises, and many other birds and animals.
When visiting, spend a weekend immersing yourself in the experience. Take the ferry from Anacortes to Friday Harbor, which offers a great home base for weekend adventures. There are lots of cute inns, amazing fresh seafood restaurants, and a farmers market every Saturday. Bring your car on the ferry with you to easily get around during your trip. You should budget about $200-$250 a night for a hotel.
There are plenty of amazing things to do during your weekend on the San Juan Islands. The highlight of visiting these islands is seeing the wildlife. Take a kayak trip to whale watch and search for wildlife. This is the most ethical (and fun) way to do a whale-watching tour here. These are half and full-day tours to watch for orcas and other whales, but you’re sure to see plenty of other wildlife here, too.
For more wildlife, head to San Juan Island National Historical Park, which offers great opportunities to view it. On a sunny day, the park also offers views of different mountain ranges, like the Cascades, Olympia National Park, and Mount Rainier.
Last, summer is when farms are in full harvest in the San Juan Islands, so make sure you take time to enjoy them on your weekend trip. Visit San Juan Vineyard, Pelindaba Lavender Farm, Madrone Cellars & Cider, Westcott Bay Shellfish, and more. You cannot beat the San Juan Islands as one of the best summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Anacortes, Washington
By Caitlin of Mindful PNW Travels
Are you looking to explore the beautiful waterfronts of Anacortes like a local? Anacortes is one of the best summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
When visiting Anacortes, I recommend spending a 3-day weekend getaway. Anacortes is about an hour and 45-minute drive from Seattle, it’s an artistic port town you won’t want to miss.
If you are traveling from Seattle to Anacortes, I would recommend renting a car. If you don’t rent a car, you could take the train, bus, or rideshare, however, each of these is fairly expensive OR takes anywhere from 4-12+ hours in transit one way. Once you arrive in Anacortes, a car isn’t necessary for how localized all the shops are. If you visit Skagit Cycle Center you can also rent an electric bike.
There are ways to travel to Anacortes that won’t break the bank. If you want to visit during the summer, travel in May-June or the later months August-September, for less tourism and cheaper travel prices. The Majestic Inn & Spa is everyone’s favorite stay, located in the heart of downtown. If you prefer Airbnb, I recommend checking out the Burrows Bay area. The west side of the island has insanely beautiful orange and pink sunsets that paint the sky. Plus, a lot of these accommodations have outdoor firepits, hot tubs, or other cozy atmospheres for enjoying the fresh air on the water.
Anacortes’s summers are known as the best-kept secret. Warm temperatures to charter a boat, take the ferry to the San Juan Islands, explore shops, and restaurants, or catch one of Anacortes’s Summer Festivals. My personal favorite is the Anacortes Arts Festival, the street is blocked off with over 230 booths from food, jewelry, paintings, live music, and other eclectic finds. Don’t miss the best sandwiches at Ghirardelli, the local family-owned bookstore Pelican Bay Books & Coffeehouse, or take a walk in Washington Park.
Best Summer Destinations in the Pacific Northwest: Oregon
Astoria, Oregon
By Karen of Forever Karen
Although Astoria may not be as popular as other West Coast destinations, the town offers lots of charm, Victorian buildings, and maritime history. Staying here for three or four days is less expensive than staying in Cannon Beach or Seaside, which are easily reached in under an hour by car.
Summers are pleasant here, and there’s no better way to enjoy them than walking the Astoria Riverwalk. The boardwalk follows the waterfront and offers stopping points to see the Astoria-Megler Bridge, Maritime Memorial, and Nordic Heritage Park. The silence may only be broken by the sound of noisy sea lions.
You should walk one way and take the Astoria trolley back. The vintage red trolley costs just a dollar and provides a nostalgic way of travel.
Astoria has many things to do, and most activities focus on its rich history. To relive the bygone days, head to Fort Clatsop, Astoria Column, or Columbia River Maritime Museum to learn more.
The Oregon Film Museum might be more to your taste if you’re a Goonies fan. The quirky venue, in the old Clatsop County Jail, allows visitors to film themselves while reciting the words from famous movies.
Marine Drive is the town’s main street, where you’ll find antique shops, cozy cafes, and places to eat fish and chips. Most hotels are within a block of Marine Drive, but the Bowling Hotel offers waterfront views.
Bend, Oregon
By Tiffany of The Stoke Fam
Bend, Oregon is one of the best summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest – and for good reason! Known for its abundance of outdoor adventures year round, summer in Bend opens up even more of these activities.
Some of the best things to do in the area are hiking, rock climbing, and taking in the stunning views of the Central Cascades at places like Smith Rock State Park and Tumalo Falls.
And while many people think of Mt. Bachelor as a place for winter adventures in Bend, it also has plenty to offer during the summer – such as mountain biking, disc golf, and zip lining! If you’d rather not spend the entire day adventuring outside, Bend also has a vibrant food scene, fun shopping, and summer concerts at Hayden Homes Amphitheater.
Or, if you’re looking to cool off from the heat of summer, try floating down the Deschutes River in a tube or paddleboarding one of the lakes along the Cascade Lakes Highway.
The easiest way to get to Bend and explore the area is to drive. Once you’re in town, many people opt to get around by bike, utilizing the extensive network of bike paths and lanes. However, you’ll still want a vehicle to explore the areas outside of town.
When deciding where to stay in Bend, you can choose lodging that fits a variety of budgets. From camping at nearby State Parks and making your own meals to snagging a room at LOGE Camps Bend and using the community BBQ area to booking a spacious Twin Bunk room at The Riverhouse on the Deschutes and eating out all weekend, you can find options ranging from $200-$1000+ for a weekend getaway.
Bandon, Oregon
By Elizabeth of Elizabeth Adventures
Bandon, Oregon is the prefect Pacific Northwest beach town to visit in the summer months if you’re looking for beautiful sights, a quaint coastal town and unique rocky beaches with less crowds. Located along the 101 in southern Oregon, it is a great destination for either a day trip or a relaxing weekend away.
Downtown Bandon is full of quaint small town charm and amazing food options. Two of my favorite spots are The Rolling Pin Bake & Brew and Angelo’s Italy. It’s a budget friendly town with accommodations ranging from camping to hotels or house rentals.
Bandon Beach is without a doubt one of the best beaches in Oregon. You can find Wizard hat, a large rock formation that resembles a wizards hat here. Arriving at the beach during low tide will allow you to walk right up to it. Cathedral Rock is another amazing spot with a large cave you can walk into at low tide. Be sure to explore the tide pools and look for colorful starfish here.
It’s an amazing year-round destination, but warmer summer weather is ideal on the coast with more activities to enjoy. It really is one of the best summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
During the summer months there is a unique art display known as Circles in the Sand. Artists create labyrinths in the sand and you can look up dates and times before arriving to make the most of seeing this artwork. You can walk down the beach to see the artwork, but if you wish to see it from above, the Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint is where you’ll want to go.
Seaside, Oregon
By Clarice of The Clever West Wind
Seaside, Oregon, has some of the best summer vibes you’ll find along the PNW coastline. From bumper cars and a wacky mirror hall, to carnival games at the Seaside Shootout, this small town has an infectiously fun atmosphere.
The beach goes on for miles here, and is easily accessed from Seaside’s downtown area. And Seaside’s Aquarium is a must-visit, being one of the oldest on the Pacific Coast.
Some activities can be more expensive, like visiting the High Life Adventure Park Aerial Challenge, or the Inverted Experience. But there are also plenty of inexpensive to free activities, like visiting Captain Kid Amusement Park, nearby Fort Stevens State Park and the Peter Iredale Shipwreck, or Fort Clatsop.
If you’re visiting from Portland, take the Sunset Highway (Highway 26) towards the coast. As Seaside is only an hour and 15 minutes west of Portland, you can easily visit in a day. However, there are so many fun things to do in Seaside, you can also easily fill 3-4 days there as well. Seaside really is one of the best summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
The Best Western Plus Ocean View Resort is reasonably priced, has an indoor pool, and a great beachfront location. Or the SaltLine is also reasonably priced, with a more sleek and modern aesthetic, and is walking distance to the beach, just a block inland from the Seaside Promenade.
Best Summer Destinations in the Pacific Northwest: Idaho
Boise, Idaho
Boise is one of the best summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest. While many people may visit Boise in the wintertime for skiing, there are a ton of fun things to do during the summer months.
Visitors to Boise should spend 2-3 days exploring what this awesome city has to offer. While you do not have to have a car to get around, it is easier if you do and you can visit more areas of Boise quickly.
The best area to stay is near downtown, so you can walk to a lot of restaurants but if you have a car, it is cheaper to stay on the outskirts of Boise. Some hotel recommendations include Hyatt Place Boise Downtown, the Hampton Inn and Suites Downtown, and the Residence Inn Downtown. Overall, plan to spend $150/night one hotels.
Boise has a plethora of things to do and some events unique to the summertime. Make sure to head to Bogus Basin for some fun outdoor summer activities like the mountain coaster and mountain biking. Other fun things to do include visiting the capitol building, the Freak Alley Gallery, and the Idaho State Museum. The Boise area also has a fun wine tasting region –the Snake River Valley that is the perfect way to enjoy a summer day.
Final Thoughts on Summer Destinations in the Pacific Northwest
There are so many fun and amazing summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Other fun places include Seattle, Salem, and Portland, which has a lot of things to do in summer. Looking for a more unique place to visit in the PNW? Check out this post of underrated cities to visit in the PNW. Washington and Oregon also have a ton of great road trips you can take.
