7-Day Pacific Northwest Road Trip: Washington to Oregon Highlights

Some places feel tailor-made for road trips. The Pacific Northwest? It’s one of them. Think rain-soaked evergreens, moody beaches, and backroad diners that serve up pie like a religion. This 7-day itinerary hits the good stuff—Seattle’s pulse, Oregon’s coast, and the kind of hiking trails that still feel undiscovered.

You’ll start in Seattle and wind your way south, trading skyline views for sea stacks and mossy forest floors. The route keeps things efficient—no crisscrossing, no backtracking, just clean progress and a few worthy detours.

Day 1: Seattle, Washington

Land in Seattle and get your bearings with a walk through Pike Place Market. Coffee? Yes. Fish-tossing? Sure. But also hit the lesser-known gems—like the pocket parks and hidden bookstores on First Avenue. You’ll find the original Starbucks in Seattle, but be sure to check out other local roasters for the best cup in town.

Craving skyline views without the crowd? Good luck, but you might head to Kerry Park at sunset. If you’re lucky, and the weather’s good, it might not be too overcrowded.

Book your flights via Aviasales, and stay central in Capitol Hill or Belltown via Booking.com.

Day 2: Olympic National Park

Pick up your rental car at the airport from Trip.com, and catch the Bainbridge ferry.

First stop: Hurricane Ridge. You’ll find panoramic views and trails that start in alpine fields and end near snow patches—yes, even in summer. Drive west to Hoh Rain Forest, where the trees are shaggy with moss and the air tastes like pine and fog. Cap your day at Rialto Beach: massive driftwood, sea stacks, and the kind of sunset that resets your brain.

Up for more? Check out this whitewater rafting trip that includes a wine tasting at the end from our partner Adrenaline.

Stay overnight in Port Angeles or Forks (yes, of Twilight fame).

Day 3: Oregon Coast via Astoria

Cross into Oregon over the Astoria-Megler Bridge. It’s a bit dramatic in the best way. Climb the Astoria Column for panoramic river views or explore the shipwreck exhibits at the Columbia River Maritime Museum.

Then on to Cannon Beach. Haystack Rock is iconic, but the real magic is in Ecola State Park. Bluff hikes, secret coves, mist clinging to the cliffs. Overnight in Lighthouse in at Cannon Beach or chill Manzanita, where there’s less bustle and just as much beauty.

Day 4: Tillamook and the Central Coast

Drive Highway 101 and don’t rush it. Stop at Tillamook Creamery for a grilled cheese that lives up to the hype. Don’t forget to sample the cheese and grab an ice cream before you go! Then head to Cape Kiwanda—wave-battered cliffs, tidepools, and views that go on forever.

Keep heading south. Detour to Depoe Bay for whale sightings, or stretch your legs at Devil’s Punchbowl.

End your day at the Overleaf Lodge and Spa in Yachats. Bonus: The Overleaf has cozy oceanfront rooms and a walkable downtown.

Day 5: Eugene and Willamette Valley

Turn inland and find yourself in Eugene. Less touristy, more lived-in. Check out 5th Street Public Market, grab brunch, or rent a bike and hit the riverside paths. If you’ve got time, the wineries of the Willamette Valley are just a short drive away and absolutely worth it.

Stay at the Valley River Inn in Eugene or nearby wine country.

Day 6: Portland, Oregon

Drive north to Portland. Break up the drive with a short hike at Silver Falls State Park.

In Portland, skip the tourist checklist and dive into the neighborhoods. Alberta is artsy, the Pearl District’s polished, and Hawthorne’s full of vintage stores and vegan donuts.

For your hotel tonight, check out Tiny Digs–A hotel made up of tiny houses! Very Portland.

Day 7: Columbia River Gorge

Save the best for last. Head out along the Historic Columbia River Highway. Multnomah Falls is a must, but don’t stop there. Latourell, Bridal Veil, and Wahkeena Falls all have their own charm.

End your day at Vista House, soaking in the gorge before looping back to Portland. If you can, I’d really recommend staying the night in Hood River. I really enjoyed my stay at the Westcliff Lodge. Be sure to swing by downtown for a craft beer–Read more about your options from our friends at Breweries in the Gorge.

All that’s left now is to get home! Book your flights on Aviasales for the best deals.