A curated mix of activities, cozy spots, and travel essentials for exploring the Pacific Northwest. Think hikes, coffee shops, waterfalls, and yummy food that makes gray sky exploring more magical.
Sections
4
Â
Outdoor Activities
Â
Food & Drinks
Â
Local Favorites
Â
Weekend getaways
Outdoor Activities
Â
One of the most iconic sights in the PNW, this two-tiered waterfall cascades 620 feet and is just a quick drive from Portland. The paved trail to the Benson Bridge is short and family-friendly, with options to keep hiking for stunning gorge views if ...
Multnomah Falls Trail Switchback
Â
Home to the deepest lake in the U.S., this Oregon national park stuns with its vivid blue water and dramatic caldera views. You can drive the scenic Rim Road, hike down to the lake, or explore in winter with snowshoes for a completely different exper...
Crater Lake National Park
Â
Perched on rugged cliffs, this park blends dramatic ocean views with beautifully designed gardens that bloom year-round. It’s especially magical during the holiday season, when the gardens light up with thousands of festive displays.
Shore Acres State Park
Â
A one-of-a-kind shoreline of smooth black cobblestones, lively tide pools, and views of Yaquina Head Lighthouse. The sound of the waves retreating over the stones scratches your brain in the best way.
Cobble Beach (2025) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Reviews)
Food & Drinks
Â
An upscale coastal spot with floor-to-ceiling ocean views and a menu that highlights local seafood, seasonal produce, and Oregon wines. It’s the perfect place to watch the sunset after a day on the beach or climbing the famous Cape Kiwanda sand dune.
Meridian Restaurant & Bar
Â
Set in a restored cannery building right on the Columbia River, this cozy bistro serves up fresh Northwest seafood, local wines, and live music in a warm, rustic setting. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic dinner with sweeping waterfront views.
Bridgewater Bistro
Â
A laid-back, family-run spot where the owner often catches the fish himself. Known for its super fresh seafood. like salmon, halibut, and fish & chips. It’s a must-stop for a casual coastal meal. Bonus: they have a fish market if you want to take...
Luna Sea Fish House
Â
A lively restaurant serving up bold, authentic Mexican flavors with fresh ingredients and generous portions. Favorites include tacos, burritos, and their house made salsas, all in a colorful, casual atmosphere perfect for lunch or dinner with friends...
El Jefe Mexican Grill
Â
Who doesn’t love an affordable sweet treat.
I highly recommend their shakes. The thickest most yummiest shake I’ve ever had in my life. I get whatever they have with caramel and it never disappoints
Handels Homemade Ice Cream
Local Favorites
Â
A charming small-town festival celebrating Oregon’s cranberry harvest with parades, food booths, live music, and plenty of local crafts. It’s a cozy fall tradition that highlights the coastal community and the region’s signature crop.
Watch skilled artists craft beautiful glass pieces in real time and even try your hand at creating your own. It’s a fun, hands-on experience that’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking for a creative PNW souvenir.
Lincoln City Glass Center
Â
The world’s largest independent bookstore, spanning entire city blocks and filled with new, used, and rare finds. A must-visit for book lovers, it’s easy to spend hours wandering the shelves, discovering hidden gems, and soaking in Portland’s quirky ...
Powell's Books
Â
This isn’t your usual claw machine shop. They want you to win. They want you to fill an entire bag of plushies and they WILL help you do it. They let my kids play so many machines for free just to try and win more toys.
We go every month and we love...
Claw City Tigard
Weekend getaways
Â
This is one of our favorite stays in the PNW. They were so kind to us and our kids and went out of their way to make sure my kids had so much fun. You couldn’t hear screaming or stomping in the halls like other hotels either.
Our favorite month for ...
Surfland Hotel
Â
This is our favorite Lincoln city Hotel. You cannot go wrong with this place. The little restaurant nook that they have set up is the coziest little place. They’re very accommodating with requests and oh so friendly.
Fall asleep to the sounds of wav...
Surftides Lincoln City Hotel
Â
Built on the site of a historic salmon cannery, this boutique hotel sits right over the Columbia River, offering stunning views of passing ships and the Astoria-Megler Bridge. We love the cozy fireplaces, spa services, and complimentary wine socials—...
Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa, Astoria (updated prices 2025)
Â
A cozy coastal retreat just steps from the beach, offering ocean-view rooms, a full service spa, and daily freshly baked cookies that make every stay feel extra special. Perfect for a relaxing getaway or a romantic weekend on the Oregon Coast.