8 Picturesque Towns in The Pacific Northwest for a Weekend Retreat in 2024
The Pacific Northwest attracts millions of visitors annually, contributing around $71.4 billion in visitor spending to the regional economy, which will not surprise those familiar with the region. Misty, rugged coastlines, temperate rainforests, and snow-capped mountains are a few of the natural features in store. As if the natural beauty weren’t enough, the region is home to unique towns offering an incredible array of experiences, from those with Nordic influences to others featuring acres of pristine, well-maintained gardens. For those craving a weekend escape, these eight picturesque towns are perfect for turning your two days off into a memorable adventure.
Port Townsend, Washington
Although Port Townsend has a population of just a little over 10,000 residents, it is abundant in maritime and Victorian history to share with its visitors and has two National Historic Landmark districts. Located along the Washington coast, the Port Townsend Marine Science Center is an excellent place to explore the area’s marine life with native species exhibits. The town’s history is wonderfully summed up in the Jefferson Museum of Art & History, located in the 1892 original city hall, which has a variety of engaging exhibits on display that explain Port Townsend’s origins. The Cablehouse Canteen is a great place to stop for an afternoon snack, offering ice cream and snacks in a historic building from 1910. For those looking for a local lodging option, the Old Consulate Inn is the perfect place to spend a couple of nights, featuring rooms looking out to the Puget Sound, all in a house dating back to 1889.
Bandon, Oregon
A weekend away to Bandon is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor excursions, filled with places to go hiking, horseback riding, and birdwatching. The Bandon Marsh, just about a six-minute drive away from the city, showcases forested wetlands, mudflats, and salt marshes that are home to native bird species such as waterfowl, birds of pretty, shorebirds, and songbirds. There are many historic lighthouses to appreciate in Bandon as well: Cape Arago, Cape Blanco, and Umpqua River Lighthouse to name just a few. It is easy to spend a Saturday or Sunday afternoon strolling through Bandon’s downtown area, abundant in art galleries, clothing boutiques, toy stores, and gift shops, as well as restaurants such as The Wheelhouse & Crowsnest, serving fresh seafood. The Lighthouse River Inn is a cozy place to spend a few nights over the weekend, a newly renovated rental home with gorgeous views overlooking the Bandon Harbor and Coquille River.
La Conner, Washington
La Conner, Washington, has events year-round that always make it an interesting town to visit, despite the weekend. The Arts Alive! The event in November, the Holiday Boat Parade, the Classic Car and Boat Show in August, and the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival in the spring are a few of the events to keep an eye out for. Additionally, its prime location near Skagit Valley makes it easy to fill the weekend with activities, whether it be kayaking, biking, hiking, or birding in one of the valley’s beautiful natural landmarks. Those who enjoy shopping will cherish the town’s variety of shops, such as Raven's Cup Coffee & Art Gallery, the Pioneer Market, and The Cusp Apothecary. Regarding lodging, Katy’s Inn Bed and Breakfast, whose historic building dates back to 1876 and is located near various downtown attractions, is a great place to stay.
McCall, Idaho
100 miles north of Boise, McCall, a gorgeous mountain town, is known for its outdoor recreational activities that can easily make a weekend fun. Mountain bikers, for example, can enjoy meadow trails at Ponderosa State Park, while avid hikers may attempt to spend the weekend hiking the 11.6-mile Twentymile Lakes trail. Golfers can also visit various courses, such as McCall Golf Course, which has three nine-hole courses to explore. After a day of outdoor activities, visitors may want to grab a bite at one of the local restaurants, such as Lardos Grill & Saloon, or a burger and beer at Smoky’s Bar and Grill. Visitors will not have to travel far to find a good place to spend the night. Shore Lodge, for example, in McCall, sits along the water and offers guests access to a private beach and marina.
Priest River, Idaho
Although Priest River has just under 2,000 residents, it has all kinds of activities to partake in, from hiking to shopping to museum hopping. Sitting along the Pend Oreille River, for example, those who are adventurous can kayak, boat, or paddleboard down the cool waters. The nearby Wolf Trails and Round Lake State Park are great places for a calm afternoon hike. Curious about this small town’s history? The Pend Oreille Country Museum and the Priest River Museum & Timber Education Center offer an interesting city perspective. Regarding lodging, Priest River has various campgrounds nearby, or visitors can drive to the nearby Stoneridge Resort if they desire a cozier, quaint stay.
Cottage Grove, Oregon
Cottage Grove, about a two-hour drive south of Portland, radiates with history, interesting architecture, and colorful murals. With over 250 locally owned businesses, visitors will not have a dull moment. Rally Coffee Bar is an excellent place to start a Saturday morning, while Coast Fork Brewing is a good choice to grab a beer and enjoy the afternoon sunshine. Antique shops, flower shops, clothing boutiques, and thrift stores all offer great opportunities to find souvenirs. Those wanting to escape into nature can spend the day at the Willamette National Forest, stretching 100 miles as one of the largest national forests in the country. For unforgettable accommodation, stay at Sweet Springs Family Farm, which has been named one of the state’s most unique lodging options due to its variety of fun and diverse packages that guests can reserve.
Silverton, Oregon
Silverton, known as Oregon’s Garden City, is a beautiful town to spend the weekend in, strolling through its gardens that span over 80 acres. In fact, visitors can lodge in the middle of some of the town’s gardens by staying in the Oregon Garden Resort, which is steps away from the resort’s botanical gardens. The town also has a vibrant local culture, with various art galleries, colorful murals, and a Christmas Market in November and December each year. Regarding nearby natural attractions, Silver Falls State Park is a hiker’s paradise, featuring ten waterfalls visitors can spot throughout the park’s several miles of trails.
Poulsbo, Washington
For those wanting to have the experience of traveling abroad without actually needing their passport, Poulsbo, known affectionately as “Little Norway,” is the place to go. Visitors can learn more about the town’s Norwegian heritage by visiting the Poulsbo Historical Society’s museums, which have four locations ranging from maritime history to archives and heritage. Additionally, the weekend especially is a great time to stop by the town, with there being events such as a second-Saturday art walk each month, a “shop small” event each Saturday after Thanksgiving, and a free Nordic Santa visit for the kids every Saturday and Sunday after Thanksgiving and before Christmas. Those wanting the entire Nordic experience can stay in Hotel Scandi in the downtown area, which has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th.
The Pacific Northwest offers an unbeatable combination of natural beauty and unique, culture-rich towns, making it an ideal destination for any type of getaway. While the region naturally attracts outdoor enthusiasts like hikers, bikers, and birdwatchers with its mountains, forests, rivers, and lakes, these eight towns offer experiences that appeal to everyone—even those who prefer to stay on dry ground. Without a doubt, with so many picturesque towns to choose from, your next unforgettable weekend is just around the corner!
