The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the most beautiful and charming cities in the world. From the better-known small towns to more rural towns, the Pacific Northwest offers an array of wonderful places to visit and explore.
In this blog post, we’re going to explore 12 of the most charming Pacific Northwest cities that you’ll never want to leave. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway, a day trip, or a permanent home, these cities are sure to please.
1) Astoria, Oregon
Astoria is a charming port city located in the northwest corner of Oregon. It's situated along the Columbia River, where it offers stunning views of the river, the ocean, and the mountains. The city's picturesque streets are filled with charming Victorian-style homes, as well as plenty of places to explore.
Visit the Astoria Column for panoramic views of the city, or check out one of the many museums and galleries. With its beautiful natural surroundings, easy access to outdoor activities, and delicious seafood, Astoria is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the Pacific Northwest. Plus, with a vibrant nightlife and plenty of historical sites, you'll never be bored here.
2) Bainbridge Island, Washington
Located just off the coast of Seattle, Bainbridge Island is a quaint and beautiful place to explore. With a population of only about 24,000 people, this small island is home to some of the most picturesque views and peaceful neighborhoods in the Pacific Northwest.
From the beautiful beaches to the numerous trails, parks, and natural areas, it's easy to find something to do or explore here. There are also a variety of restaurants and cafes that offer delicious food and drinks.
A trip to Bainbridge Island is sure to be filled with moments of relaxation and peace. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a family adventure, Bainbridge Island has something for everyone.
Mazama is an enchanting mountain village located in the heart of the North Cascades in Washington. It's surrounded by majestic mountains and valleys and is home to some of the most stunning outdoor scenes in the Pacific Northwest. From hiking, biking, and fishing in the summertime to skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in the winter, Mazama has something for everyone.
And it's not just outdoor activities - with its own bakery, brewery, and even a distillery, you'll never run out of things to do. Whether you're looking for a peaceful weekend getaway or a weeklong adventure, Mazama is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
Cannon Beach, Oregon is a charming beach town on the Pacific Coast of the United States. Nestled between majestic Haystack Rock and the vast Pacific Ocean, Cannon Beach is home to pristine beaches, stunning sunsets, and wild coastal waves. Its beautiful shoreline extends for over four miles, offering plenty of room for swimming, surfing, fishing, and bird watching.
From exploring nearby Tillamook Head to discovering delightful restaurants and galleries in downtown Cannon Beach, there’s something for everyone here. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Cannon Beach offers activities for all ages. With its breathtaking natural beauty and its small-town charm, this enchanting coastal city is sure to be a highlight of any Pacific Northwest adventure.
5) Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
Nestled in the picturesque Northern Idaho Panhandle, Coeur d'Alene is a charming city with a wealth of activities to enjoy. Stunning natural beauty is abundant in the region, from the rugged mountain peaks to the peaceful Lake Coeur d'Alene, giving outdoor enthusiasts plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the great outdoors.
The city is also home to a vibrant downtown district, where visitors can explore boutique shops, delicious restaurants, and galleries showcasing local art. With its small-town feel, diverse landscape, and a plethora of activities, Lake Coeur d'Alene is the perfect place for a weekend getaway or a long-term stay.
6) Friday Harbor, Washington
Friday Harbor, Washington is a charming town located on the San Juan Islands. It has an amazing waterfront, plenty of shops, restaurants, and a variety of activities to enjoy. The marina is also a great place to take a leisurely stroll and watch boats come in and out. Nature lovers can explore the surrounding area and visit nearby beaches or take a boat tour to see the local wildlife.
The town also offers whale-watching tours, kayak rentals, and fishing opportunities. With its beautiful landscape and unique charm, Friday Harbor is a great place to explore the Pacific Northwest.
7) Hood River, Oregon
This charming Pacific Northwest town is situated on the Columbia River, surrounded by majestic mountains and rivers. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts due to its abundance of water sports, hiking trails, and scenic views. In Hood River, you can take a cruise down the river and explore the local wineries or go for a sail on one of the many lakes. There are plenty of activities to choose from, such as horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, and whitewater rafting. We highly recommend checking out the Rowena Crest Viewpoint.
The town is known for its unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. From microbreweries to chic restaurants and trendy boutiques, there is something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Hood River is a great choice. With its beautiful scenery and endless outdoor activities, it's no wonder why it's so special.
8) Jasper, Alberta
Jasper, Alberta is a small town situated in the beautiful Canadian Rockies. Located in the middle of Jasper National Park, the town offers stunning mountain vistas and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. The town is small but vibrant, with an eclectic mix of local businesses, galleries, pubs, and restaurants.
There’s also plenty of wildlife to observe. In summer, visitors can hike, bike, paddle, and fish in the nearby lakes and rivers. In winter, you can enjoy snowshoeing and skiing. No matter the season, Jasper is a charming destination for those looking for an idyllic escape to the wilderness. From its picturesque setting to its laid-back atmosphere, Jasper is one of the most special towns in the Pacific Northwest.
9) Port Townsend, Washington
Located in the Olympic Peninsula of Washington, Port Townsend is known for its Victorian-style homes and other historic buildings. Its bustling harbor is a sight to behold. Not only that but the city is also filled with plenty of fun things to do and explore.
The city is home to a variety of arts and cultural events, as well as an impressive selection of outdoor activities. From hiking and biking to bird-watching and whale-watching, Port Townsend offers an array of experiences to choose from. Plus, the scenic views are unlike anywhere else.
If you're looking for a little bit of everything, Port Townsend has it all. With its charming downtown, vibrant local businesses, and stunning natural beauty, you won't want to leave. Whether you're visiting for a day or a week, you'll find yourself charmed by this magical city.
10) Sandpoint, Idaho
Sandpoint, Idaho is a charming mountain town located in the northern panhandle of the state. With its stunning lake views, rolling hills, and bustling downtown, it's no surprise why many flock to this vibrant city. Visitors will find plenty of activities to take part in, such as hiking, skiing, kayaking, and fishing.
There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration with its close proximity to the Selkirk and Cabinet Mountains. Visitors will enjoy the unique shops, restaurants, and galleries that line the downtown streets.
Sandpoint is also home to the renowned Festival at Sandpoint, which is an annual summer music festival that brings world-renowned musicians to the area. It's a perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature while still being able to experience all that a lively town has to offer.
11) Stehekin, Washington
This charming mountain village located in the North Cascade Mountains is one of the most special places in the Pacific Northwest. Nestled at the head of Lake Chelan, Stehekin is a picturesque and serene retreat surrounded by stunning views of the lake and nearby mountains.
With a population of fewer than 100, the town is a tranquil escape, free from the hustle and bustle of modern life. It is accessible only by boat or seaplane, making it an isolated and unique getaway.
The peaceful, laid-back atmosphere is a perfect place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area. There are several activities available such as fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, hiking, and cycling. Stehekin is an ideal destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience in the Pacific Northwest. Plus, there are innumerable hikes nearby, like the well-loved North Cascades' Blue Lake.
12) Long Beach, Washington
This charming town of only 1,400 people is situated on the beautiful coast of the Pacific Ocean. Just shy of two miles long, Long Beach offers a unique atmosphere that combines city life with the beauty and serenity of nature. The entire area is filled with activities to explore, such as crabbing, horseback riding, whale watching, RV camping, and fishing.
The beaches here are some of the best in the Pacific Northwest and are ideal for sunbathing and swimming. As a bonus, visitors can also enjoy local eateries and breweries, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Long Beach is one of those special towns that you never want to leave – there's something for everyone! Plus, Cape Disappointment State Park is nearby.