Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Alaska are each beautiful states, and they also are wildly different. From the Arctic Circle to the dry fossil beds of the Oregon plateau, the Pacific Northwest is a wonderful adventure to explore.
The Pacific Northwest of the USA is an incredible place to explore, whether it be for hiking, a luxurious resort or great beer. Between the National Parks and the beaches, the rain forest and the Columbia Gorge, what’s not to love? The PNW as we call it, includes Washington, Oregon, Idaho and (I think) British Columbia.
If you’re looking for information to plan a trip to Olympic National Park or if you think a brisk beach trip is a great idea, we’ve got you covered. Looking for mountain goats on Mount Rainier? We can help with that too!
And don’t forget Oregon and the Columbia River Gorge. Endless waterfalls, wine country and even more National Park sites make Oregon a treat to explore. Check out our road trip plans all around the Pacific Northwest for great travel ideas.
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How to Visit Katmai National Park: Epic Bear Viewing
Visiting Katmai National Park is one of the most epic Alaska experiences. Yes, it costs a lot and takes significant planning, but it’s truly remarkable. From bears fishing at Brooks Falls to moose grazing in the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, see what you can experience at Katmai National Park. It’s unforgettable.
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15 Great Things to Do in Kodiak, Alaska: Bears, Hiking and History
Visiting Kodiak, Alaska is one of the best ways to experience bears, but it’s also full of things to do and beautiful beaches. We’ve put together a great guide for planning a trip to Kodiak including how to see bears, kayaking, hiking and museums in town. This is one of the coolest destinations in Alaska…
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How to Have a Unique, Unforgettable Trip to Juneau
Juneau, Alaska is more than a cruise ship destination, but actually has some wonderfully unique things to do that make for an unforgettable Alaska trip. From crabbing to hiking on glacier, flightseeing to early mornings exploring, see what we recommend for the best activities in Juneau for a different type of visit.
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What to Do in Homer, Alaska: Visiting the Halibut Capital of the World
Homer, Alaska has so many fun things to do besides being the Halibut Capital of the World. From beautiful hiking and beaches to museums and wildlife watching, we’ve put together an easy guide to choosing activities and planning a trip to Homer, AK.
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Visiting Glacier Bay National Park and Gustavus AK
Visiting Glacier Bay National Park and the town of Gustavus needs to be on everyone’s Alaska bucket list. With so few visitors, this part of the Inside Passage is often overlooked and is actually one of the prettiest places to visit on your own. You can see some of it on a cruise ship, but…
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3 Week Alaska Adventure: Kodiak, Glacier Bay and Katmai National Parks
This Alaska itinerary is amazing as you visit Glacier Bay National Park, Homer, Kodiak Island and Katmai National Park. Details for transportation and incredible things to do and wildlife to watch for, including epic bear viewing in Alaska. Download the full itinerary and suggestions for where to stay along the journey.
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Glaciers in Alaska You Can Visit: Hikes, Boats and Flightseeing
Alaska has thousands of glaciers and you can visit lots of them. We’ve put together 25+ Alaska glaciers that you can access by hiking, boats, flightseeing and even driving up to, including tour recommendations to get close to the ice. See what our favorite glaciers in Alaska are and how to add them to your…
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Sitka Fun Things to Do with a Great 3 Day Itinerary
Visiting Sitka, Alaska means all kinds of interesting things to do, from the totem pole trail at Sitka National Historical Park to the chance to do cold-water snorkeling. We have great recommendations and an itinerary for spending 1 to 3 days in Sitka, whether you’re traveling independently or as part of a Southeast Alaska cruise.
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Things to Do in McCarthy, Kennicott and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska
They may not be famous, but McCarthy, Kennicott and Wrangell-St Elias National Park are FULL of great things to do and adventures for every age. While everyone knows the image of the iconic Kennecott Mill, did you know that there are glaciers to explore here too? And you can go rafting right from the end…
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Things to Do in Valdez, Alaska: a Fun Plan for a Beautiful Destination
Valdez, Alaska is loaded with things to do on the water and outdoors. This beautiful small town on Prince William Sound is full of activities for every energy and skill level, including glacier kayaking, whale watching, hiking and museums. See what we recommend and when is the best time to visit Valdez.
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Unique Alaska Road Trip: Summer in AK Unlike You Knew was Possible
Doing a road trip in Alaska can be very easy and run of the mill, but this is a unique plan that takes you off the beaten path to some towns that a lot of visitors overlook or just haven’t even heard of. This is a different Alaska summer road trip than most people have…
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The Boat Company Alaska Expedition Cruise: an Unforgettable Adventure
Sailing with the Boat Company is an expedition through the Tongass National Forest and Inside Passage. This luxury experience is part adventure and part activism, as the Boat Company is the only non-profit cruise operator in the world. See what you can expect on board and what sort of daily activities you’ll experience on the…
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Detailed Alaska Inside Passage Itinerary WITHOUT a Cruise Ship
Do you want to experience Southeast Alaska independently, not on a cruise ship? We’ve got a great 10 day itinerary for seeing Ketchikan, Juneau and Haines vis the Alaska Marine Highway and other methods of transportation. Things to do and budget are included.
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Visiting Anchorage, Alaska in Winter: Fun Things to Do and Unique Adventures
Visiting Anchorage, Alaska in winter might seem crazy but it’s actually tons of fun and absolutely beautiful. See what it’s actually like to travel to Alaska in the winter months, including all of the great things to do in the Anchorage area. It’s an unforgettable trip and worth planning!
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Alaska Winter Vacation: How to Have an Incredible Trip (and things to do)
Have you wanted to visit Alaska in the winter but weren’t sure if you should? You SHOULD! We’ve answered all the questions about visiting Alaska in winter from how to pack to where to go, temperature concerns to fun things to do in limited daylight. Check it out and start planning your own amazing Alaska…
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Juneau or Anchorage for an Alaska Trip Home Base? We’ve Got the Answers
If you’re not sure if you should be based out of Juneau or Anchorage for an Alaska trip, we’ve got answers and the simple things to consider to decide where you should make your hub for a great Alaskan adventure. And remember, you can always go back to the other option for a future trip…
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Visiting Haines, Alaska: Great Things to Do and AWESOME Wildlife Encounters
Visiting Haines, Alaska is a totally different sort of trip with lots of things to do and so much wildlife to see. We’ve put together activities and sights enough for at least three days of fun, likely five days and suggestions for how to plan this adventure.
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Great Things to do in Ketchikan, Alaska: Spending Several Days Exploring
There are so many things to do in Ketchikan, Alaska than you can fit into a single day from a cruise ship. We have the full scoop on planning a trip specifically to Ketchikan and a great plan to have a fun visit to Southeast Alaska.
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Alaska’s Inside Passage WITHOUT a Cruise Ship – How to Enjoy Southeast AK on Your Own
Exploring Alaska’s Inside Passage without a cruise ship is a fun, beautiful adventure that no many people get to experience. See how you can get from port to port on your own, what sights and activities you’ll find, and even a great itinerary for your trip to Southeast Alaska.
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Seattle Weekend Trip: a Guide to a Great Getaway to the Emerald City
Planning a weekend trip to Seattle is a fun and easy getaway to the Pacific Northwest. We’ve picked our favorite things to do and unique Seattle sights to see, including food and dining recommendations.
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Fairbanks in Winter: One Week Itinerary for a Beautiful Alaska Experience
Fairbanks in winter is a trip you have to take with your family or friends. Experiencing the Alaskan cold, the Northern Lights and fall in love with sled dogs is all a part of embracing this awesome winter destination. Try our one-week Fairbanks winter itinerary for a complete experience.
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Kayaking in the San Juan Islands
The San Juan Islands are famous for being beautiful, remote and untouched. Kayaking is one of the best ways to experience and fall in love with the quiet coves frequented by orca whales. This is our guide to the best places to kayak in the San Juans, from Orcas Island to Friday Harbor on San…
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Two Week Alaska Itinerary: Unforgettable Road Trip from Homer to Fairbanks
This two week Alaska itinerary is great for visiting the National Parks, Homer, Seward, Anchorage, Palmer and Fairbanks. See the things to do, hiking spots and great tours for an epic Alaskan road trip.
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Seattle Kayaking: Best Spots in the Puget Sound Area
Kayaking around the Seattle Area is a great way to experience the Pacific Northwest. Growing up in Seattle and on the Olympic Peninsula, I can say that the best way to get outdoors and fall in love with the Puget Sound area is from the water. Seattle is such an outdoorsy city that kayaking all…
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Travel to Alaska: Tips for Having a Great Experience on Land or Cruise
Travel to Alaska takes some planning, so we’ve put together our best tips for packing, making an itinerary and being prepared for all sorts of weather. From when to visit Alaska to that sweet spot between seasons, see everything you need to know for a visit to AK.
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7 Day Alaska Itinerary: Epic Road Trip, Beautiful National Parks
This 7 day Alaska itinerary is perfect for seeing epic wildlife, national parks and enjoying some of the most beautiful hikes around. From Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula and Denali National Park, this Alaska road trip will show you amazing sights and experiences.
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Kayaking in the Tri Cities Area of Washington Wine Country
Kayaking in the Tri Cities of Washington’s wine country is a mix of epic cliffs and rolling farm country. Top spots to kayak on the Columbia and Snake Rivers in Kennewick, Pasco and Richland, Washington.
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Talkeetna Wilderness Lodge – Rustic Stay and Fun Things to Do in Talkeetna
The Talkeetna Wilderness Lodge is a great home base for enjoying the town of Talkeetna, exploring Denali State Park and having an adventure in the Alaska wild. See what the lodge is like and what things to do you’ll find in the Talkeetna area of Alaska.
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Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska: Sights and Fun with (or without) Kids
Visiting Juneau from a cruise ship or on your own is a great way to experience Southeast Alaska. Take a look at all the great things to do downtown and around Juneau to immerse yourself in nature and the Native Alaskan culture.
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Staying at the Seward Windsong Lodge on the Beautiful Kenai Peninsula of Alaska
The Seward Windsong Lodge is THE place to stay for experiencing Kenai Fjords National Park and the best of Seward, Alaska. From comfortable Alaskan rooms to really good dining at the lodge, it’s a top pick for where to stay in Seward.
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Amazing Photography and Wildlife Watching in Kenai Fjords National Park
The wildlife in Kenai Fjords National Park is precisely why people make the journey to Alaska. From humpback whales and sea otters to moose and porcupines, these are the best tips for what wildlife to watch for and how to get the best photos during your visit to the Kenai Peninsula.
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Everything You Need to Know about Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska
Visiting Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska should be on everyone’s wildlife adventure bucket list. From amazing humpback whales and orcas to watching glaciers calve off into the fjords, it’s incredible. Guide to boat tours, hiking and planning Kenai Fjords NP.
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UnCruise Wilderness Legacy: Awesome Kids in Nature Family Alaska Cruise
The UnCruise Wilderness Legacy is an amazing way to do an family Alaska cruise. Engaging kids in nature and taking in astounding wildlife and views, this small ship cruise on the Inside Passage to Glacier Bay National Park is unique and unforgettable.
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Complete Olympic National Park Guide – Best Hiking, Beaches and Where to Stay
Olympic National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Washington State and a little tricky to visit. Our guide to hiking, beaches and where to stay at Olympic NP will help you plan a unique, memorable visit to this gem of a place.
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Best Kayaking Spots on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington State
Kayaking on the Olympic Peninsula includes everything from snow-melt rivers to peaceful mountain lakes, from the Strait of Juan de Fuca, to the slow flowing tide of Hood Canal. This guide includes some of the best and most beautiful places to paddle on the Olympic Peninsula.
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Best Hiking at Mount Rainier National Park: Beautiful, Kid Friendly hikes
Hiking at Mount Rainier National Park is a great summer activity. These are the best hikes with kids or for a reasonable challenge. From Paradise to Sunrise, Ohanapecosh to Lake Mowich, great hiking trails for any skill level.
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10 Best Family Friendly Willamette Valley Wineries Close to Portland
Best family friendly Willamette Valley wineries near Portland are easy to get to. Map of wineries and top picks for wine tasting when you’re with kids in Oregon’s premier wine region.
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20+ Awesome Things To Do in Victoria BC Kids Will Love
The best things to do in Victoria BC with kids includes everything from really cool (and strange) museums to scavenger hunts around the city. Boat rides, Chinatown and Butchart Gardens await in Victoria BC.
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Best Scenic Drives in Washington State: 10 Mini Road Trips You’ll Never Forget
With such a diverse landscape, there are so many mini-road trips you can do around Washington State. We’ve picked our favorite scenic drives that can be done in a day to see some of the best sights in Washington.
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Cape Disappointment State Park and Ilwaco, a Beautiful SW Washington Escape
Cape Disappointment State Park in Ilwaco is NOT a disappointment at all! An awesome destination for hiking, biking and lighthouses, Cape Disappointment is great to visit in summer or storm season. Check out things to do and where to stay here!
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Oregon’s Painted Hills: When To Visit, Best Tips You Need To Know
Oregon’s Painted Hills are a unique natural wonder. See how to get there, when to visit, where to stay, and hiking trails at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Most incredible National Park in Oregon.
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Hiking Hurricane Ridge in Beautiful Olympic National Park
Hiking at Hurricane Ridge is one of the best day trips to the Olympic Peninsula. We’ve rated the trails rated from easiest to most difficult and included tips for visiting Hurricane Ridge any time of year.
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Best Things To do in Leavenworth: Washington’s Year-round Playground
The best things to do in Leavenworth, Washington are Bavarian, outdoorsy and uniquely Pacific Northwest. Find out more about the fun lodges and camping options, unique tourist activities, and great food that make it a year round vacation destination.
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Cross Country Skiing in Leavenworth: Exploring the Backcountry
Cross country skiing in Leavenworth is a great way to explore the snowy backcountry in winter. Find out where to ski, where to rent skiing gear and what to expect on the ski trails of Leavenworth, Washington.
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15 Fun Bavarian Activities to Love in Leavenworth, WA
Bavarian Leavenworth is a great Pacific Northwest getaway. Here are 15 fun Bavarian things to do in Leavenworth that will take you back to alpine Europe without ever leaving Washington State.
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Kayaking in Washington: Beautiful Spots to Paddle in the Pacific Northwest
Kayaking in Washington is a must. Pacific Northwest kayaking destinations, whether on a mountain lake or the open water, are beautiful and good for all skill levels. Top picks for kayaking on the Olympic Peninsula, San Juan Islands and more.
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Great Things to Do in Portland for a Weekend Trip
A Portland weekend getaway is easy to plan with tons of things to do in summer or on a rainy day. Wine country, city parks and gardens, museums and for for a great trip to Portland, Oregon.
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25+ of the Most Beautiful Lighthouses in the USA You Have To Visit
There are more than 100 lighthouses in the USA. These picks are beautiful, easy to visit and make for picturesque road trip adventures, from the Florida Keys to the Oregon Coast.
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Best hotel for fitness: IHG’s EVEN Hotels for frequent travelers
Staying fit while traveling has always been important to us. We make sure that wherever we go we stay active and when available, we take advantage of hotel fitness centers or go running. We’ve found a hotel brand that is the best hotel for fitness, particularly for the frequent traveler: Even Hotels, an IHG brand.…
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Hiking Cape Flattery: Land’s End on the Olympic Peninsula
Cape Flattery on the Olympic Peninsula is a bucket list place to visit in Washington State. Hiking, wildlife, epic views and even a lighthouse make this a great weekend trip from Seattle.
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Lewis and Clark National Park: off the beaten path Pacific Northwest
Having grown up in the Pacific Northwest, I’ve always been familiar with the history of the area and some key figures in its settlement, including Lewis and Clark, the famous 19th century explorers. In southwestern Washington and part of the Oregon Coast, there is Lewis and Clark National Park. We’re going to tell you all…
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Hells Canyon National Recreation Area – Awesome Things to Do Year Round
Visiting Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in the United States is an adventure. From jet boats to hiking, camping to staying in wine country, complete guide to exploring Hells Canyon ID / WA / OR.
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Port Ludlow, Olympic Peninsula: Beautiful Sunsets and Foodie Paradise
Port Ludlow on the Olympic Peninsula is a gorgeous weekend getaway from Seattle. An easy stop on a road trip around the Olympic Peninsula, amazing food and outdoor activities wait in Port Ludlow.
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Oregon Coast Camping: Getaway to the KOA Astoria Campground Resort
We have had our first Kampgrounds of America (KOA) camping experience and are thrilled to share it with you. Before this trip we didn’t really know what to expect at a KOA, even though we’d reviewed the website and seen many campgrounds. You just don’t know what the feel of a place is going to…
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Washington / Oregon Road Trip: West Coast Itinerary from Seattle Southward
A Washington / Oregon road trip is the dream of travelers around the world. From mountains to beaches, cities to small towns, this itinerary down the coast is easy and features National Parks, wine country, waterfalls and the best cheese.
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Exciting Oregon Adventures For Your PNW Travel Bucket List
Adventures in Oregon are everywhere. These are the best, must see places, things to do, places to drive in Oregon and more.
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Best Year-round Hiking in Olympic National Park you CAN’T MISS
Olympic National Park is a year-round hiking destination. Top hiking trail picks from the beaches to the rainforest, and even what to do in winter at Olympic National Park.
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Smith Rock with Kids: Awesome Hiking in the Oregon High Desert
Visiting Smith Rock with kids or without is an ideal Central Oregon experience. Hiking, wildlife, rock climbing and the beautiful landscape make Smith Rock State Park one of the wonders of Oregon.
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Best Kayaking Spots in Bellingham and Whatcom County
Bellingham and Whatcom County have tons of great places to kayak. From Lake Whatcom to Birch Bay, the Northern Puget Sound is a beautiful summer kayaking destination.
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Sleeping Lady Resort: the Perfect Beautiful Leavenworth Mountain Getaway
Leavenworth’s Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort is the perfect getaway from Seattle. Review and details for staying at the Sleeping Lady, including things to do and best nearby sights.
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Leavenworth Reindeer Farm: Everything You Need To Know For An Unforgettable Visit
The Leavenworth Reindeer Farm is one of the best things to do when visiting Washington’s Bavarian village. See what to expect and things to do and then plan a visit to this unique Pacific Northwest farm.
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Lake Chelan: Best Things To Do and Beautiful Views
With so many things to do at Lake Chelan, it’s no wonder this part of Washington Wine Country is so popular with locals. Wine tasting, hiking, boating and more, plan a fun vacation to Washington’s year-round playground.
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Leavenworth Sleigh Rides: the Ideal Winter Family Activity
A Leavenworth sleigh ride is the perfect addition to a trip to Leavenworth, Washington. See what to expect and how to plan for getting out on the snow with kids during the Pacific Northwest winter.
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Icicle Brewing Co in Leavenworth: PNW Microbrew Heaven
Icicle Brewing in Leavenworth is one of the best breweries to visit in the Pacific Northwest. With interesting and consistently good beers, it’s a must visit when you’re in Leavenworth, Washington
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Taking the Victoria Clipper from Seattle: everything you need to know (and a Victoria itinerary)
Having visited Vancouver Island and more specifically Victoria many times we definitely have some good advice for planning a trip to Victoria BC. With four different options for getting there, the Victoria Clipper is our top pick. Here’s everything you need to know about taking the Victoria Clipper, including customs information, Victoria Clipper tickets, and…
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Best Fall Colors in National Parks: 10 Beautiful Autumn Trips to Love
National Parks are a great place to enjoy fall colors. From the mountains of Glacier National Park to the hills of the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Parkway, these are the best National Parks to find autumn leaves and fall fun.
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Year Round kid friendly hikes in Washington State: perfect PNW outdoors
As the snow stops falling up in the mountains we start to get excited about hiking. There are so many easy, kid friendly hikes in Washington, so actually picking where to go first is the biggest struggle. We’ve checked in with some of our favorite Pacific Northwest families and bloggers for their favorite springtime hikes…
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Awesome Places in the USA to Visit for Fall Colors
The best places for fall colors in the USA, from the Lakes Region of New Hampshire to Napa Valley. 15+ picks for easy weekend getaways for autumn foliage across the United States.
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Planning a 3 Day Getaway to Victoria BC: breweries, gardens and more
We are fortunate to live in Seattle, Washington. It’s close to the ocean, mountains, countryside and several other metropolitan areas. One of our favorite cities to visit locally is Victoria BC. The city touts itself as being more British than Britain. I can’t agree for certain, but it does a fine job of trying. Between the…
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Top Hotel Recommendations in Victoria BC (and some unique stays!)
There are tons of hotels in Victoria BC, but after 15 years of visiting we’ve picked out favorites, from family friendly hotels to luxury stays in Victoria.
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Road trip through West Coast National Parks: Exploring the Mountains
Perfect West Coast National Parks road trip plan, from Joshua Tree to Olympic National Park. Stops in the Sierras, Central Oregon, and the best of Washington State’s mountains.
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Lake Cushman: Seattle’s Beautiful Mountain Escape on the Olympic Peninsula
Lake Cushman on the Olympic Peninsula is basically the Tahoe of the noth: warm water, beautiful setting, and so much family fun! Everything you need to know from best things to do at Lake Cushman to camping and vacation rentals near the lake.
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Olympic Peninsula Road Trip: Beautiful Towns and Best of Olympic NP
An Olympic Peninsula Road Trip is a great weekend getaway or local vacation near Seattle. See the best stops around Highway 101, waterfalls and hikes in Olympic National Park, beautiful small towns and the rugged Washington Coast. Perfect Pacific Northwest vacation itinerary.
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Oregon Road Trip: Adventures in the Beautiful Cascades
We love our road trips, you know that, and living in the Pacific Northwest, we’re at the gateway to some of the best road trips in the United States. Oregon is our neighbor and we visit it a lot, but it’s rare that we really explore the south part of the state. This is our…
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Ultimate Oregon: Awesome 10 Day Road Trip Adventure
10 Road Trip plan for the best of Oregon, from the rugged Oregon Coast to the mountain waterfalls and the colorful high desert. Oregon’s best sights in 10 days of epic road trip.
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Oregon Caves National Monument: Amazing Adventure You’re Sure To Love
Everything you need to know to visit Oregon Caves National Monument, including cave tours, hiking trails and details of the Oregon Caves Chateau. Cave Junction, OR is worth the drive for this fascinating road trip stop!
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Oregon Coast Road Trip: Most Beautiful Oregon Beaches and Lighthouses
There is nothing like an Oregon Coast road trip. With beautiful sights, unique things to do and epic views, the drive along the Oregon Coast highway from Portland to Brookings (nearly California) is an unforgettable adventure, perfect for families, couples or to do on your own. Have you done the Oregon Coast Highway 101 with…
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The Truth About What To Expect At A Korean Spa
In this podcast episode we share our Korean spa experience, and apparently it was rather different for each of us. Have you ever been to a Korean spa or had an experience you didn’t realize was going to vary greatly due to the culture behind it? We talk about it all, from our favorite spa…
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Washington’s Olympic Peninsula: Best Free, Beautiful Things To Do
The best things to do on the Olympic Peninsula, including Olympic National Park sites, beaches, lighthouse and more. When to visit the Olympic Peninsula, free activities, and epic views in Washington State.
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Ruby Beach, Olympic National Park: everything you need to know
Everything you need to know about Ruby Beach in Olympic National Park, from how to get there to wildlife to watch for. Best things to do at the Olympic National Park coast.
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Painted Hills Of Central Oregon: Remarkably Beautiful Hiking
A day trip from Bend or a weekend getaway, the Painted Hills are known for the views, the hiking and the geology. Colorful mounds and trails make a unique National Park site and easy trip for any traveler.
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Kayaking in Skagit County: Beautiful Tulip Country and Bald Eagles
Kayaking in Skagit County ranges from wide rivers with bald eagles lining the shore to tidal flats and bays. See our top picks for kayaking in La Conner and the Northern Puget Sound.
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Best Things to Do on Washington’s Long Beach Peninsula, from Cranberries to Lighthouses
The Long Beach Peninsula is famous across the northwest as an incredible beach getaway during Washington summers, but did you know there are amazing things you must do on the Long Beach Peninsula during winter (or fall, or spring)? It’s true! Read on for awesome summer and off-season adventures you must do! Thank you to…
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Domaine Madeliene review: our favorite Port Angeles Bed and Breakfast escape
We love sharing accommodation reviews and recommendations, and we have a place we must share: Domaine Madeleine on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington. It is the most awesome and perfect Port Angeles bed and breakfast that we have visited. Domaine Madeliene really captures the quiet nature of the area and is the perfect place to…
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Awesome Columbia Gorge Road Trip: Beautiful Oregon Waterfalls
Details of how to explore the Columbia Gorge Waterfall Area on a road trip from Portland. Visiting waterfalls, Hood River and more is an ideal weekend plan and one of the best things to do in Oregon.
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Columbia Gorge Waterfalls Road Trip: everything you need to know (and a plan)
Everything you need to know for exploring the Columbia Gorge Waterfall Route in Oregon. Pacific Northwest hiking and waterfalls on a lush green road trip itinerary. #hiking #waterfalls #oregon
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Seattle with out of town guests: 14+ ways to explore the Emerald City
Having lived in Seattle for the majority of our lives we know the city like the back of our hands. It’s been fun to discover new things and see things from a different perspective now that we have kids. Also, as more and more friends from around the world come to visit us, we’ve had…
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Seattle Hyatt Hotels: our favorite Seattle getaways and recommendations
When we spend a weekend away in Seattle, we want it to be relaxing, fun, and convenient. We also love to do it on a budget because let’s be honest, stay-cations are better when you’re not paying through the nose to be close to home. For this, we love using points for travel, especially for…
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The best breweries in Bend Oregon: family friendly brewery tours and brew pubs
Bend, Oregon, brewery tour is not only family-friendly but filled with lots of local fairs and some really cool places to hang out. There may be non-family friendly breweries, but we didn’t find any. We’ve pared down the countless brewpubs and beer halls to our favorites.
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Bend Itinerary: Hiking, Breweries, and LOGE Camps
Bend, Oregon with kids is an ideal vacation plan. Seriously. We just returned from a week long fall trip to Bend and enjoyed the culture and outdoors of Bend so much that we’re chatting about doing a return trip to consider and research moving there. We were based out of LOGE Camps Entrada Lodge on…
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Planning a Trip to Westport: super chill Washington coast
If you grew up in the Seattle area you know that going to the ocean is a production. You have to plan it out, get up early, pack up everything you could possibly need, including rain coats, and then head for the coast, being prepared to leave the beach early due to wind and rain.…
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Amtrak Train to Glacier National Park: the Beautiful Empire Builder Route
Train travel is so common around the world, but here in the United States most of us always opt to fly places. Our first family train travel was taking Amtrak to Glacier National Park and it was pretty cool. We don’t do many trips in the northern USA in the fall or winter because driving…
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Hiking Sol Duc Falls and the northern rainforest of Olympic National Park
When you visit the Puget Sound area or more specifically the Olympic Peninsula, you’re bound to want to make a gazillion stops. We could tell you that every stop is awesome and worth your time, but we like to direct you to just the best stops. Sol Duc Falls in Olympic National Park is one…
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The Grove of the Patriarchs: old growth forest hiking in Mt Rainier National Park
We’ve got another great, easy hike with kids to share! Our favorite hikes take us places with sweeping views and unusual sights, but we also love huge trees. The Hoh Rainforest is at the top of our list of hikes in the Pacific Northwest with kids, but let’s go ahead and add the Grove of…
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Biking in Seattle: bike routes and using bike sharing apps
One of our favorite things to do with the kids when we’re traveling is to go biking. We try to do it anywhere possible and it turns out that it’s even fun in our hometown. The opportunity came up to have a “dads day” in the city and we got to enjoying biking in Seattle. …
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Camping at Kalaloch and exploring Olympic National Park
The Pacific Northwest is a dream destination for so many. Sure, we have our rain and grey skies, but we also have incredible mountains, beaches and forests. Olympic National Park is the perfect spot to experience all of those things, and the west side in the Kalaloch area is really an ideal home base. Camping…
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Exploring the Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park
Unless you grew up in the Pacific Northwest you probably think right away of tropical destinations when you hear the term “rainforest.” We actually have several protected, temperate rainforests here in Washington State. Exploring the Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park is our favorite with the kids and we bring a lot of out-of-town guests…
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West Coast Weekend trips: exploring new cities one weekend at a time
It’s no secret that we love the weekends. I mean, who doesn’t? With or without the kids we try to break away to a new city or visit one of our old favs whenever possible. There are loads of West Coast weekend trips you can take for a great recharge on life, so here are…
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Things to do in Hood River, Oregon: relaxing with family time
There are days or weeks when we are just worn out; sometimes it’s from traveling a ton and sometimes it’s just because life can be a lot to deal with. That’s why we always try to relax on our weekends and get a good recharge. We’ve partnered up with Hampton by Hilton to both help…
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A weekend in Port Townsend, Washington: Victorian charm meets the outdoors
More often than not we find ourselves visiting places we’ve been 10,000 times. We don’t live far from Port Townsend, Washington and that’s where a lot of our family is so we are there quite often. We love Port Townsend, as most Pacific Northwest residents do, and it’s our duty to share just why and…
