9 Towns in The Pacific Northwest with Vibrant Downtown Areas

The Pacific Northwest enchants every visitor with its striking landscapes of glaciers, lakes, valleys, spearing mountain peaks, and the magnificent oceanfront of the Pacific Ocean. However, the region’s scenery is further amplified as the lines between natural beauty and commerce become invisible in the downtown areas. These downtowns are either on the flanks of ocean channels and rivers or further inland. Yet, they share one thing in common - streets bustling with life, commerce, good food, wine, arts, and culture. From the mesmerizing Astoria Riverfront in Oregon to the astonishing main street in Walla Walla, Washington, check out these best downtowns in the Pacific Northwest.

Snohomish, Washington

Snohomish, a Washington postcard-perfect town along its namesake river, is the epitome of natural elegance with its striking landscapes, highlighted by the Cascade mountains. Meanwhile, a booming downtown also complements nature perfectly in this town, making it all the more exciting. Visit this downtown and start an adventure with art galleries like Avenue D Gallery and Arts of Snohomish to experience jaw-dropping moments browsing through creative paintings, artworks, and sculptures. Shop for antiques at Antique Warehouse or Annie’s on First, and relax at the Thumbnail Theatre to watch sensational shows and performances. Don’t miss a stop at the Blackman House Museum for a look at Victorian-era furnishings, artifacts, and memorabilia from Snohomish's early days. Afterward, storm the outdoors by exploring the 1,463-acre Lord Hill Regional Park, featuring green forests, hiking and biking trails, wildlife, and river access.

Salmon, Idaho

Salmon, a lovely town in Lemhi County, is the ideal getaway destination to reunite with nature, especially as the Salmon River offers opportunities for whitewater rafting, boating, and fishing. However, a visit to the downtown always makes a trip to this town a blast. First off, Dave’s Pizza, El Taco, and Junkyard Bistro are always available to offer sumptuous meals. Meanwhile, the Purple Easel Gallery is in the area and is a great place to admire artworks such as paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The downtown also hosts the Lemhi County History Museum, where one can immerse in the past. Additionally, premium entertainment awaits visitors who can make up time to visit the River Cinemas.

Sandpoint, Idaho

Sandpoint is a famous town in Idaho, nestled along the state’s largest freshwater body - Lake Pend Oreille. The lake is a critical draw to Sandpoint as it is incredibly beautiful and sets the stage for water sports. In the meantime, the downtown offers a perfect detour from the lake, with restaurants, galleries, retail shops, and museums to explore. Visit this bustling part of Sandpoint and start an adventure by perusing the collection of craft items, fine arts, paintings, and sculptures at Artworks Gallery. Alternatively, visit Uniquely Sandpoint to purchase souvenirs like t-shirts, caps, and hoodies. Don’t forget to visit Bonner County Historical Museum to explore the area’s history from Native American culture to early settlers. For some entertainment, head to the Panida Theater and proceed to savor tongue-stunning meals at 219 Lounge or grab snacks for lunch at Burger Dock.

Winthrop, Washington

Winthrop is a small, unique town, particularly inviting for its Old West charm reflected in its buildings. Naturally, the downtown packs the most Old West architecture, making it more touristy and attractive for history buffs. Visit the downtown area and start with some history at the Shafer Historical Museum. Next, get fascinated by stunning artworks at the Winthrop Gallery and then head outdoors to raft on the Methow River. Alternatively, recline at the shores of Pearrygin Lake for a relaxing picnic or boat on the water. When it’s time to wine and dine, visit the Arrowleaf Bistro or Three Fingered Jack’s Salon.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach is one of the most picturesque towns on Oregon's coast, renowned for its world-famous Haystack Rock on its beach. Visitors who troop to the town are invited to spend time at the beach to marvel at the magnificent sea stack and get close to it on low tides. However, the downtown is no less spectacular and is a must-visit. Embark on a walking tour of this downtown that offers beach and ocean views while hopping the town’s numerous art galleries, such as DragonFire, Bronze Coast, and Jeffrey Hull. Stop by the Cannon Beach History Center & Museum and discover the town’s iconic past in exhibits and memorabilia. Meanwhile, don’t forget to enjoy some incredible dishes and handcrafted beer at Bill’s Tavern & Brewhouse and sensational seafood at Mo’s Restaurant.

Sisters, Oregon

Sisters is a gorgeous town in the Bend Region that stands out for its majestic mountains, which are famously known as the Three Sisters. Tourists are welcome to explore these iconic mountains in the Three Sisters Wilderness area. However, the downtown area must not be overlooked as it is one of the best in the Pacific Northwest. In downtown Sisters, visitors will enjoy the delicious coffee at the Sisters Coffee Shop and the tasty delights at Boone Dog Wood Fired Pizza and Angelina’s Bakery and Café. Moreover, amazing handcrafted jewelry is lavish at The Jewel while the Paulina Springs Books is always available to satisfy book lovers. Art lovers can storm Raven Makes Gallery or Hood Avenue Art to explore mind-blowing creative artworks, while history buffs stop at the Sisters Museum to delve into the town’s interesting early days.

Walla Walla, Washington

Walla Walla is a charming town in its namesake valley with a downtown worth getting on the next flight to visit. One of the most unique things about this town’s downtown is its array of wineries that beg for exploration. Start an adventure here by hopping some of these wineries, such as Seven Hills Winery, Caprio Cellars, and El Corazon. Next, stop at Fort Walla Walla Museum to see a pioneer settlement, a garden park, and five exhibit rooms lavish with artifacts. For more history head to the Whitman Mission National Historic Site to learn about how a measles outbreak caused a series of events that led to a full-scale war between the Cayuse people and settlers. Relax later at the cozy AK’s Mercado Restaurant downtown with burgers and sandwiches.

Florence, Oregon

Florence, the self-acclaimed playground of the Oregon Coast, boasts a thriving downtown where fun, shopping, wining, and dining are available year-round. This bustling downtown flanks the beautiful Siuslaw River with shops, restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, and inns strewn along its entire stretch. Once here, begin the day with a cup of coffee at the Siuslaw River Coffee Toasters and cross the iconic bridge while savoring views of ancient vestiges on its banks. Next, visit the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum to explore the preserved past of Florence and the Siuslaw region through pioneer exhibits and artifacts. Don’t forget to appreciate art at the Backstreet Gallery or Resto Arts. Afterward, escape to bask in the outdoors at North Jetty and Heceta Beaches, where charming white sands carpet the earth and make it a soothing playground for strolling and birdwatching. Otherwise, hit the water to enjoy boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddling, and swimming adventures.

Astoria, Oregon

Astoria is a jaw-dropping riverfront town on Oregon's Northwest Coast with an incredibly exciting downtown offering so much to keep visitors hooked. In this part of town, visitors can start the day by walking on the Astoria Riverwalk that runs along the banks of the Columbia River. On the walk, stop by the Columbia River Maritime Museum to unravel the history of the majestic river and the Pacific Northwest via over 30,000 artifacts. Proceed to the Oregon Film Museum to explore the history of film production in the state and sum it up for history at the Heritage Museum, celebrating Clatsop County’s heritage. Still, in downtown Astoria, discover the town’s impressive art heritage at the Imogen and RiverSea Art galleries. Before leaving, be sure to have some lunch or dinner at the Riverwalk Restaurant or Rogue Pier 39 Public House with spectacular river views.

Discover the Heartbeat of the Pacific Northwest

While the small towns of the Pacific Northwest are best known for their natural scenery and outdoor adventures, their downtowns must not be ignored. In fact, a visit to these downtown areas can be a highlight for many visitors, especially as they are choked with vibrant businesses and lovely attractions. Step into these downtowns today and be spoiled with choices of everything from delicious food to colorful art galleries, intriguing museums, and more.