Things to do in Pacific Northwest
Discover the best attractions and experiences Pacific Northwest has to offer
Historic Monuments
From frontier forts to landmark squares, explore the Pacific Northwest's storied past through its enduring monuments.
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
A preserved 19th-century fur-trading fort and settlement that offers a window into early Pacific Northwest history.
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park – Seattle Unit
Exhibits and walking routes that trace the Klondike Gold Rush and its impact on Seattle.
Whitman Mission National Historic Site
Historic mission site near Walla Walla marking early missionary and settlement history.
Museums
Museums across the region celebrate art, science, and regional heritage with engaging, family-friendly exhibits.
Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)
Seattle’s hub for regional history with interactive displays and artifacts.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)
Portland’s hands-on science center featuring interactive exhibits and a planetarium.
Seattle Art Museum (SAM)
A premier art museum with diverse collections spanning continents and eras.
Religious Monuments
Architectural landmarks and sacred spaces punctuate city skylines and valleys alike.
Saint James Cathedral (Seattle)
Seattle’s principal Roman Catholic cathedral with Gothic-inspired architecture.
Trinity Episcopal Cathedral (Portland)
Historic cathedral known for its striking design and city views.
The Grotto – National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother (Portland)
Catholic shrine and garden complex set within a tranquil forested site.
National & Theme Parks
Stunning parks and scenic drives highlight the region’s rugged beauty and diverse ecosystems.
Olympic National Park
A vast landscape of mountains, forests, and coastline in NW Washington.
Mount Rainier National Park
Iconic volcanic peak with alpine meadows and expansive vistas.
Crater Lake National Park
A stunning caldera lake set in volcanic formations, famed for deep blue waters.
Neighborhoods
Each neighborhood tells a different story through shops, eateries, and street life.
Capitol Hill (Seattle)
Vibrant, diverse neighborhood known for cafes, boutiques, and nightlife.
Pearl District (Portland)
Historic, artsy district with galleries, indie shops, and dining.
Fremont (Seattle)
Quirky, artsy enclave famous for public art and a playful atmosphere.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy iconic sights and experiences without spending a dime.
Pike Place Market (Seattle) – stroll
Watch vendors, street performances, and the market’s lively ambiance.
Gas Works Park (Seattle)
Scenic Park with views of the city skyline and unique industrial ruins.
Kerry Park (Seattle) – city viewpoint
Small hilltop with one of the best vantage points for skyline photos.
Gastronomy
From iconic markets to craft bites, taste the region’s diverse culinary scene.
Voodoo Doughnut (Portland)
Quirky, iconic doughnuts with creative flavors and whimsy.
Willamette Valley wine tasting
World-class Pinot Noir and scenic vineyard experiences in Oregon’s wine country.
Portland’s food cart pods
A mosaic of cuisines served from mobile kitchens across the city.
Nightlife
Live music, craft cocktails, and late-night venues fuel the evenings in major cities.
The Crocodile (Seattle)
Iconic Seattle rock venue hosting national and local acts.
Doug Fir Lounge (Portland)
Laid-back, stylish venue with live music and crafty cocktails.
McMenamins Kennedy School (Portland)
Historic pub, cinema, and bar complex housed in a former school.
Entertainment
Theaters, festivals, and performing arts showcase the region’s creative energy.
Oregon Shakespeare Festival (Ashland)
Major summer theater festival with world-class productions.
Seattle Opera
Renowned opera company presenting a mix of classic and contemporary works.
Portland Center Stage
Leading regional theater offering bold plays and performances.
Sports
Cheer on local teams or enjoy outdoor sports for a hands-on experience.
Seattle Seahawks game at Lumen Field
Experience a high-energy NFL game with incredible stadium atmosphere.
Portland Trail Blazers game at Moda Center
Catch premier NBA action in the city known for basketball culture.
Seattle Mariners game at T-Mobile Park
Enjoy baseball with panoramic views of downtown Seattle.
Off the Track
Unforgettable, lesser-known experiences off the usual tourist path.
Whale watching in the San Juan Islands
Seasonal marine wildlife cruises to glimpse orca pods and other creatures.
Mount Hood Railroad scenic ride
Historic train journey through Hood River’s scenic countryside.
Hood River Fruit Loop
A leisurely loop of orchards, farms, and small-town charm along the Columbia River Gorge.