These Small Towns In The Pacific Northwest Come Alive In Summer
From the coast to the desert and rainforests, the small towns in the Pacific Northwest come alive and are the happiest places during summer. From the tallest mountains in the contiguous US to the endless, ruggedly beautiful coastline and soft-sanded beaches, you are guaranteed a glorious summer full of adventures, relaxing pleasures, and expansive views. Hence, attain your own sunny vibes in one of the small towns scattered throughout the immense region in Washington or Oregon, and enjoy easy access from big cities.
Ashland, Oregon
Not too big, not too small, Ashland is a lively town of 22,000 that gets hyped during the summertime cultural events. Spend a day exploring the whitewater via jet boat or fishing raft down the Rogue River in Grants Pass, followed by a celebratory show over dinner at the atmospheric Oregon Cabaret Theatre. The wine culture is a real thing here, so join the crowd at one of the many local wineries for a glass in tranquility overlooking the views, like at the Belle Fiore Estate. Come back in the winter to ski and snowboard down Mount Ashland. Ashland is the place to be in the Pacific Northwest if you love Shakespeare, for its renowned six-month-long Oregon Shakespeare Festival from early spring into late fall.
Seek outdoor action at the Elizabethan Theater, which presents Shakespearean pieces, or watch your favorite plays at the two indoor theaters, including experimental pieces, all running simultaneously during the busy summers. The 4th of July is a big celebration in Ashland at the beautiful 100-acre Lithia Park, with festivities and a parade down Main Street. Head over to the summer-long Britt Music & Arts Festival in neighboring Jackson, an old mining town, for more unique sights and places to eat, and come back in the winter for skiing and snowboarding down Mount Ashland.
Bainbridge Island, Washington
Bainbridge Island is among the few best-kept secrets in the Pacific Northwest for getting away into a laid-back space with arts, beaches, culture, and nature without crowds. Enjoy easy access via the north end of Washington State Route 305 into the sought-after, removed vibe away from the bustling city. You can also take a jaunty ride from Seattle across the Puget Sound aboard the Washington State Ferry with a free return for about $10 to explore the summertime paradise of Bainbridge Island. Stroll up the hill into the town, overlooking awe-inspiring coastal scenery, or rent a bike from the rental kiosk by the ferry dock.
Paddling is an immersive way to explore the true small island town ambiance through the sea breeze and blue waters peeking at you amid the buildings. Enjoy plentiful shopping along the Winslow Way and stop by the Bainbridge Museum of Art, a real eye candy with more impressive galleries, shops, and restaurants nearby. Head harborside at sunset for a waterfront trail stroll and views of magnificent real estate and boats along the waterways. Visit from June through October for sunny days of street perusal and beachcombing to find your favorite spot around the island and relax or enjoy water pursuits.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
This contender for the most beautiful place in the state is one of the most beautiful places in the country. Cannon Beach is a must-visit during your summertime in Oregon, with simple access via Highway 101 that rivals, scenery-wise, even California's Highway 1. The long and expansive beach calls for endless strolls and private hangouts with your toes buried in the sand. Just an hour and a half from Portland and under four hours from Seattle, the dramatic landscape, coupled with amazing food and a sea breeze, will be your unforgettable summerscape.
Spraed a picnic along the boulder-studded beach near the famous 235-foot Haystack Rock protruding from the waters. You can spend hours strolling and admiring the marvel, with seabirds on top for the best photoshoot ops, or see the anemones and starfish at the base during low tide. Find plentiful fun ways to diversify your vacation getaway through the cute stores, art galleries, a candy shop, and places for gifts and memorabilia along Hemlock Street.
Fairhaven, Washington
The awe-inducing town of Fairhaven sits like a postcard on the bay, with views of the Canadian Rockies. Find historic vestiges strewn about the village streets, calling for endless perusal with sunny vibes and music in the air. From antique brick buildings to funky jazz cafes, tasty pizzerias, and cute shops at every turn, you will not regret visiting this town that feels like walking in a dream. Stroll bayside for incredible sunsets and resident orcas.
Fairhaven's laidback atmosphere feels far removed from your regular life, right in your backyard. Check out the three-story bookstore on a summertime rainy Washington afternoon, and get an iced latte from the local Woods Coffee when the sun comes out for a jolly walk along the Bellingham Boardwalk overlooking the bay. This small, colorful town is full of dopamine-inducing sights and feel-good pursuits, as well as quick access to nature. Take a hike in Larrabee State Park and trek to the Oyster Dome for awe-inspiring views of the San Juan Islands far below.
Forks, Washington
The misty Washington town of Forks is a real secret gem in the state, surrounded by the most refreshing natural treasures for all your summertime ventures. Choose the Misty Valley Inn and explore the town on foot, just off Highway 101, which feels like a world of its own, far removed from civilization. Take an atmospheric Twilight tour before breakfast and stop by the Forks Timber Museum or trek outdoors through trail-spliced Bogachiel State Park.
One of the state's rainiest towns, Forks, in the heart of the Olympic Peninsula, in a rainforest, makes every sunny day more special. Greet the fresh-faced nature along river walks and elk-filled meadows. Fill up on homemade breakfast over coffee and head for a day trip to Rialto Beach or the Hoh Rainforest. The little slice of paradise will welcome you back for the coziest evenings and some of the state's best fishing right here.
Friday Harbor, Washington
The little magical Washington island of Friday Harbor fills up with life during the summer. Visit for a weekend getaway to let the nature-adorned sands and sparkling sea waters bring you back to life from the gray soot and sights of the heated steel skyscrapers. Take the first ferry of the day to catch the fresh-faced island in the distance and get prime service over breakfast at one of the cute cafes with water views.
Take a stroll amid whimsical shops and tasty restaurant options for lunch and dinner, or enjoy cycling around hotspots with quick access to the surrounding nature. Take a pick from along the beach fringe for a relaxing sunny afternoon with intermittent dips. Peddling around the island is a great way to explore scenic farms, historic sites, and peaceful beaches. This cutest small town in Washington will make every minute of your trip worthwhile, turning your visions and cool experiences into the best summertime memories.
Hood River, Oregon
The charming town on the banks of the Columbia River brims with feel-good pursuits for the summer, just over an hour's worth of glorious driving through the scenery east of Portland. Stop at Multnomah Falls and take a quick detour to the aptly named Bridge of the Gods before lunching at Cascade Locks with Brigham Fish Market. Now, settle in town, where in 1805, Lewis and Clark's party took a nearly fateful journey down the rapids in their canoe as Native Americans gathered "to watch the white men drown themselves," surviving only thanks to an enslaved man. This breezy river is tamed by three locks and four dams for a summertime playground with kiteboarding and windsurfing. Drive down the 35-mile Hood River Fruit Loop through the Hood River Valley, strewn with fruit stands, orchards, and farms, to pick cherries or apples straight from the trees.
Stop by one of the wineries, like Grateful Vineyard, for the best Mount Hood views to relax over a glass, and visit the scenic Hood River Lavender Farms for some fresh-picked lavender and products after a stroll around the scented property. Have lunch at Gorge White House with the best cider and delicious bites, or try a fare from the Grateful Feast Tasting Experience with your choice of drink over pizza. Stroll through the lively downtown area along brick storefronts, including bookstores and unique gift shops, and savor a cone from Mike's Ice Cream on a hot summer day by the river. Return for the best sit-down dinner at 3 Rivers Grill with its outdoor deck as you dig into the seafood and sausage pasta over river views. Choose the century-old and restored Hood River Hotel, serving delicious Scandinavian breakfast from its Broder Ost, to start your day on a high note, or stay at the Society Hotel in Bingen to unwind in the complimentary soaking pools and sauna.
La Conner, Washington
La Conner is a real Washington gem, removed from all the major roads, that overflows with small-town charm like no other around. The little romantic town spreads along one of the most unusual places in the state, along the Swinomish Channel. Find your dreamy waterfront escape here, away from the main highway and along the country road after miles of farmland. La Conner blooms through the summertime with arts and incredible food to greedily enjoy in a crowdless scene under the sun, thanks to the removed atmosphere.
Enrich your getaway from everything and everyone with a cozy stay at Katy's Inn, the only historic b&b with great grounds, views from all windows of the one-of-a-kind rooms, and a two-course breakfast to charge you for a dayful of explorations. Find local treasures overflowing through La Conner's antique shops and art galleries, and take some time exploring the Museum of Northwest Art and the Pacific Northwest Quilt and Fiber Arts Museum. Enjoy easy access to Shelter Bay for views and Martha's Beach, epitomizing Washington's wild coastline.
Port Angeles, Washington
The base at the entryway to Olympic National Park could not be a better summertime destination for all outdoor lovers. This bustling summertime town, built upon the former town of Port Angeles, brims with family-friendly pursuits to diversify every day of your vacation. Explore the secret underground with Port Angeles Heritage Tours via hidden tunnels filled with discoveries.
Enjoy sightseeing hikes like Hurricane Ridge and recharge heartily at one of the restaurants with views. Shop through the boutiques of the city and quickly feel at home when you choose to stay at Eden by the Sea, along the best portion of the coast between the center and Sequim. The great grounds give access to shore strolls, with birds and wildlife visitors at your doorstep (did you get that Snow White image?), and every sight that is postcard-worthy.
Winthrop, Washington
This Wild West town, one of the most unique in Washington State, feels like stepping into a time capsule. Winthrop, an amazing Pacific Northwest destination with tons of cool things to do, retains genuine class without the act or the tourist trap vibe. From hiking, biking, rock climbing, and fishing to hot air ballooning and horseback riding over the Methow Valley, where you have just gotten off the horse, you will not have a breather if you don't want one.
Choose an adorable hotel close to all the best summertime hiking trails with beautiful views. Visit the incredible Shafer Museum with indoor and outdoor exhibits, and stop by Sherri's Sweet Shoppe for ice cream with authentic cowboy saddles in place of seats. Anyone up for an old wagon ride complete with country song serenades on your way to dinner by a campfire? Cowboy Dinner at Sun Mountain Lodge has you covered for this wild experience.
The PNW awaits avid explorers with at least 100 separate islands, 17 national forests in Washington and Oregon alone, the Olympic Mountain range, and two national volcanic monuments. Find more awesomeness beyond nature's beauties and into the small towns' hearts with local businesses that welcome visitors and look after the stunning scenery with limited development and transportation to ensure the future of the thriving region and enjoyment for generations to come.
