A small caravan in Portland
A small caravan in Portland
Explore beautiful coastlines and charming cities

The American Northwest

When you think of the Northwest, imagine misty beaches and woody mountains, islands brimming with wildlife, vast fields of vibrant tulips, and undiscovered towns overflowing with charm. Would you like to take a road trip along the Oregon Coast and stop at beautiful Cannon Beach? Go for a hike in Mount Rainier National Park and witness wildflowers in full bloom? Or spot orcas on San Juan Island?

A view of the small town, Bend in Oregon
Have your choice between charming cities and beautiful nature
Outlook over the mountains in Washington's Olympic National Park.
Go for beautiful hikes in the many national parks in the Northwestern US

Highlights

The Northwest United States is often referred to as the American Northwest, Pacific Northwest or the Northwest. The states of Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming are included in the region, and few places are as diversely stunning.

There is so much to see and do; whether you want to experience the artisanal cities of Seattle and Portland, experience picturesque landscapes and rugged mountains in San Juan Island, go kayaking on the Columbia River or go hiking in Crater Lake National Park.

Aerial view of Crater Lake in Washington State
Enjoy spectacular views at the deepest lake in the US: Crater Lake
© Little America

See and do

Wine tasting in Mount Hood

Enjoy exquisite wines combined with delectable local specialities while admiring the breathtaking vistas of Mount Hood and Mt. Adams. Take a tasting trip through the "Oak Grove" section of the Hood River Fruit Loop, which provides a wealth of historic charm and natural beauty, including large orchards, vineyards, historic landmarks, and spectacular views. Bike through award-winning wineries, savour a delicious local lunch and soak up the breathtaking scenery.

Discover the Oregon Beer Trail

Hop on a bike, explore the city, and learn all there is to know about Portland. See some of the 40 breweries and microbreweries that make Portland the "Beervana" and get to know the U.S. cycling capital like a local! Quench your thirst on this pleasant and simple eight-kilometre, three-hour trip that passes a number of Oregon's most well-known breweries. And of course, sample the best craft beer Oregon has to offer.

Three people on bikes cycling past vineyards
Hop on a bike and explore Oregons wine country

Hike the Salt and Diamond Creek Waterfalls

The Willamette National Forest has a lot to offer with its more than 1.6 million acres. In the Cascade Mountains in the Pacific Northwest, there are many guided excursions to choose from. The Salt & Diamond Creek Waterfalls Hike will take four hours and you will see Salt Creek Falls, the second-largest waterfall in Oregon. On the hike, you will cross the wooden footbridge to the forested trail loop that follows Salt Creek and Diamond Creek's canyon rims. Make sure to stop midway at the base of Diamond Creek Falls to enjoy views of the Cascades. Pack a picnic basket for lunch and relax surrounded by fresh air and forest.

View Seattle from the air

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the highlights of Seattle from one of the best vantage points you can get. Get a bird's-eye view of the Space Needle, Gas Works Park, Elliott Bay and Puget Sound to name a few.

Charter a flight and fly over Seattle.
Enjoy spectacular views over Seattle and the surrounding area

Cities

Portland, Oregon

Portland is a year-round, constantly-evolving city that is home to a conscientious community committed to maintaining its city's sustainability, innovation, and accessibility. There is a world-class public transportation network, great shopping, and sizeable inner-city parks with a wide variety of cultural attractions. Portland provides you with music, odd people to watch, and a craft brew sector unlike any other. The city has so much personality that you might nearly forget to explore its beautiful outdoors. Mount Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, and the Oregon Coast are all nearby, as is wine country.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle is a vibrant metropolitan hub tucked away in the Pacific Northwest with a bustling food and drink culture, unique neighbourhoods, and a breathtaking coastal location. Puget Sound and Lake Washington form the city's eastern and western boundaries, making it a prime spot for sightseeing cruises and other water-related activities.

Iconic Landmarks

The 185.5-metre-high Space Needle, a relic of the 1962 World's Fair and a symbol of the city, offers a breathtaking view from its observation deck. Pike Place Market, the oldest continually running farmer's market in the United States, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Explore the kiosks brimming with the freshest bread, artisanal cheeses, and daily fish. Seattle is more than simply a wine and craft beer town; it is also the birthplace of Starbucks. You can still visit the original storefront next to Pike Place Market. This metropolis is driven by caffeine; it boasts the highest number of coffee shops in any city in the United States.

Aerial view of Portland city
Portland is a vibrant, quirky city.
Sunset view of Seattle, Washington
Explore Seattle, the home of Starbucks.
© Unsplash

Best travel time

Shoulder season is considered the time of year that comes right after the busiest tourist months. In the Pacific Northwest, shoulder season normally lasts from April to early June and September to October. The "shoulders" of both the winter and summer seasons are fantastic times to visit because the crowds are not as intense as they are during ski season and even during those busy summer months.

The sun shining through the forest at Lake Crescent Olympic Park
Enjoy the streams of sun at Lake Crescent, Olympic National Park
© Little America

Accommodation

Luxury lodge in the pristine Oregon wilderness

Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, United States

A rustic yet romantic and luxurious hotel located in the heart of the northeastern Oregon wilderness.

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The most charming cabins in Washington State

Columbia River Gorge, United States

Discover the wild nature of the Pacific Northwest together at this natural luxury cabin getaway in Washington.

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One step closer to your dream trip

More is possible than you may think

You probably already have ideas for your holiday to the United States and Canada. Nature tours through the Rocky Mountains, spotting orcas near the San Juan Islands, or exploring the streets of San Francisco on the iconic cable car?

For the best local tips and advice, visit one of our online presentations. Meet our travel specialists and have all of your questions answered.