8 of the Most Charming Small Towns to Visit in The Pacific Northwest
Hidden in the upper corner of America is a region with no shortage of adventure, historical legacies, and scenic views. The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the most iconic peaks in North America, featuring mountains such as Mount Rainier, Mount Hood, and Mount Baker. The region is also home to America’s only rainforest and the rugged coastline of Oregon and Washington, featuring towering coastal cliffs and sand-swept beaches. Amongst this diverse climate lies the perfect mix of charming towns that were settled in these harsh environments many years ago.
For folks looking to experience the Pacific Northwest, this is your call to the wild, inviting you to plan a route through the region that promises the perfect mix of adventure, history, and relaxation in these eight charming small towns.
Coos Bay, Oregon
It’s hard to think of the Pacific Northwest without thinking of the rugged shores along the Pacific Coast, during your stay in Coos Bay you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a maritime history unlike any other.
As you exit Highway 101, waste no time exploring the town’s maritime history. Head over to the Coos History Museum which offers insights into the town's past through various exhibits, displays, and artifacts. After, go check out the renowned Boardwalk jutting out into the ocean, it lies just outside the downtown area and offers the perfect place to stretch your legs or relax at one of the many picnic areas.
You can’t miss the adventures that lie just outside of the town, venture into Cape Arago State Park or Shore Acres State Park for scenic hikes along the rugged coastline of Coos Bay. Be sure to pay attention to the nearby coastal waters as they are filled with marine life ranging from sea lions to many species of whales.
Astoria, Oregon
You’ll want to clear your schedule during your visit to Astoria. This scenic Oregon town is filled with exciting activities that have long-allured visitors. Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend getaway, you will certainly not be bored. One of the main attractions in Astoria is climbing to the heights of the Astoria Column: this historic landmark stands 125 feet tall and is decorated with historic graphics. Those who reach the column are rewarded with panoramic views of Astoria and the Columbia River. Remain outdoors and hike amidst towering trees as you make your way towards the renowned Cathedral Tree which has withstood the test of time and is an impressive 300 years old.
For the less outdoors-inclined, it is possible to spend your day indoors as Astoria is home to a variety of historical landmarks and museums. Take your pick from architectural gems such as the Flavel House to historic museums such as the Oregon Film Museum.
Lake Stevens, Washington
Sandwiched between the shores of the largest lake in the county and Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Lake Stevens has always been offering sanctuary to those looking for a relaxing destination.
Discover the town’s cultural influences by visiting the nearby Tsubaki Grand Shrine of America, which pays homage to the town's earliest Asian settlers who helped develop the surrounding region. After, take a short drive to the Lake Stevens Historical Museum to learn about the fable’s stories surrounding the past of the town.
Visitors can also enjoy paved walking trails that guide them throughout Lake Stevens Park. However, if this doesn’t seem like your type of adventure, then head over to North Cove Park, which is a little more isolated than the latter. The lake itself is the perfect place to be on a hot summer day. Admire the views of the nearby Cascade Mountains as you relax on the sandy shores of the North Lakeshore Swim Beach.
Winthrop, Washington
Hidden in the Methow Valley rests the historic town of Winthrop, which has long been attracting adventurous souls seeking an escape from the ordinary. From its early days as a Wild West town to its booming eco-tourism industry, the town remains a must-visit destination.
Kick some dust up as you walk Winthrop's wooden boardwalks in the themed downtown district that resembles something of a scene from a Western movie. Channel your inner cowboy and head over to the Shafer Historical Museum—a perfect destination for visitors to learn about the town's heritage through interactive exhibits.
There is also no shortage of opportunities for outdoor adventure in Winthrop, bounded by the North Cascades, and in the warmer months, offers the opportunity for hiking or biking along scenic trails at destinations such as North Cascades National Park. For adrenaline addicts, schedule a whitewater rafting tour with Methow Rafting that will take you through some gnarly rapids on the Methow River!
Grants Pass, Oregon
What was once a modest logging community has evolved into one of Oregon's best-kept secrets. Grants Pass is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a weekend escape, featuring numerous must-see attractions.
To taste the town's artistic flair, embark on a tour of the Grants Pass Museum of Art, showcasing captivating artwork from local and international talents. Get in touch with your creative side by visiting Glass Forge. This innovative glass-blowing gallery is home to some surreal pieces of molten glass that are shaped by local forgers. The Glass Forge Gallery even offers classes where visitors can take their turn creating a molten masterpiece.
Once you've satisfied your inner artist, it's time to embrace the great outdoors. Follow the scenic Cathedral Hills Trail System, which offers unmatched hiking and biking experiences; choose between easy, moderate, and challenging trails that ensure all types of hikers can explore the scenery. For a thrilling day's adventure, venture into the depths of the Oregon Caves National Monument, where surreal underground landscapes await your exploration.
Ocean Shores, Washington
As the name suggests, this coastal town is located on a peninsula that serves as a divider between the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean and the Gray’s Harbor Inlet. So, whether it’s a family retreat or an adventurous getaway, you are to be left pleased with your stay in Ocean Shores.
Get properly acquainted with Ocean Shores by marching along the Damon Point State Park trail, which is the perfect place to get your steps in while listening to the rolling waves break along the coast. Afterward, see who can build the best sandcastle during your visit to Pacific Beach State Park, located just outside the town and is truly the perfect place to spend a sunny day.
Familiarize yourself with the many species that call the ocean home. Visit the Coastal Interpretive Center to walk through the galleries featuring fascinating information on sea birds, marine life, and a variety of other local species that call the region home.
Garibaldi, Oregon
You’ll want to bring your appetite to this culinary hotspot. Garibaldi has long been known for providing some of the freshest seafood in the Pacific Northwest. Visit Garibaldi Marina to see today’s catch before heading over to Fish People Seafood Market, where the freshest seafood from the coastal waters is then available to purchase. For an adventurous attraction, try catching your dinner by booking a fishing excursion with Garibaldi Charters. Just be sure to have your sea legs as the nearby waters can be quite rough during the summer months!
Garibaldi also has an interesting past that is explored at the Garibaldi Maritime Museum which tells the tale of the town's founding in 1788. Pound some pavement as you walk along the paved Harborview Trail, a walking path that clinches the shoreline of the lovely Garibaldi harbor.
Cottage Grove, Oregon
Not often do you enter a town and immediately feel welcomed, whether it’s a friendly greeting or a nice meal at a local restaurant, Cottage Grove is sure to welcome visitors with open arms as the town was twice voted an All-American City.
After a nice stroll through historic Mainstreet, follow the Follow the Cottage Grove Covered Bridge Historical route. Tower above ravines and rushing rapids as you walk across the impressive architecture of the town’s numerous covered bridges. The Dorena Covered Bridge and the Mosby Creek Covered Bridge should sit atop the list. If you’re seeking a little more solitude, head to Row River Trail and plan a hike alongside the river’s edge.
The town was once home to those seeking to make their fortune during the region's Gold Rush Boom. To learn more about the fortunate few and the not-so-fortunate many who struck gold in the area, stop by the Bohemia Gold Mining Museum.
So, if you were searching for a sign that you should make your way to the Pacific Northwest, consider it. The region is home to countless adventures spanning from mountainside hikes to barefooted walks along the sandy beaches, not to mention the abundance of hidden histories that add to the allure of the region. Don’t take any chances and discover some of the region's best in these charming Washington and Oregon towns.
