The Northwest is so rich with fun things to do and gorgeous sites to see, it can be difficult to narrow down your list of vacation options. Those who live in this region know that it would take a lifetime (or more!) to visit all the wonders that the Northwest holds. And while there are always new places to explore, old favorites can draw you again and again. You'll want to experience these places at different times of year, in different light and different season. For those who aren't lucky enough to live here, there are many reasons to choose the Northwest as your vacation destination.
This list will give you some getaway ideas and help you choose a destination where you can enjoy the experiences that fit your tastes and interests.
Family Fun in the Northwest
View of Mount St. Helens from the Johnston Ridge Visitor Center
Romantic Getaways in the Northwest
View of Hwy 95 Bridge over Lake Pend Oreille
Wildlife Watching in the Northwest
Caribou Browsing Among the Fall Color in Denali National Park
Whether you're interested in seeing creatures with fur, fins, or feathers, these locations offer the opportunity to view the region's gorgeous wildlife.
Golf Getaways in the Northwest
Floating Golf Green at The Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course
You'll enjoy a variety of challenging courses surrounded by the Northwest's scenic wonders at each of these golf vacation spots.
Experience History in the Northwest
Grave of Jeremiah Johnson at Old Trail Town in Cody, Wyoming
These historically-significant destinations offer interesting learning experiences in combination with hands-on activities and recreation.
Water Recreation in the Northwest
Windsurfer at Hood River
You'll enjoy a broad range of water activities on these Northwest lakes and rivers, including whitewater rafting, water skiing, windsurfing, and houseboating.
- Hood River, Oregon
- Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, Washington
- Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
Winter Vacations in the Northwest
Downhill skiing, cross country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and sledding and tubing. You'll find it all in abundance in the Northwest.
Wine and Wineries in the Northwest
King Estate Winery in Oregon
Tours vineyards and wineries and sample the fruits of their labor in these scenic Northwest wine regions that take pride in their hospitality.
The Best of the Northwest
You can also choose to focus your Northwest vacation around one major attraction, such as a national park, a historic area, or a scenic wonder. Another choice is to combine a few of the Northwest's great visitor attractions into a multi-day road trip. Here are my picks for the best attractions in the Northwest US:
