6 Most Overlooked Towns in The Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest is renowned not only for Portland, with its unique culture, and Seattle, a hub for coffee enthusiasts and the state’s largest city, but also for its often overlooked and quirky towns that cater to every adventurer's taste. Explore the deep-sea wonders at the Oregon Coast Aquarium, once the home of Keiko, famously known as Free Willy from the film, or embark on water sports adventures from the deep port of Coos Bay, the largest of its kind.
Among these towns, one finds some of the PNW's most pristine natural landscapes, including Oregon's ruggedly beautiful coastline. This area is dotted with hidden gems amidst verdant forests along the headlands, offering lookouts across rocky outcrops and down to the ocean's waves.
Coos Bay, Oregon
Situated along Oregon’s Adventure Coast, Coos Bay is an active harbor and vibrant city on the southern coast, adjacent to North Bend. Rich in artistic expression and shaped by its history, it serves as a gateway to the Southern Oregon Coastal Wilderness's untamed expanses. With attractions ranging from the Oregon Dunes to serene beaches and forested hikes, the area's rivers, lakes, and the Pacific Ocean itself offer a plethora of water sports. Visitors can explore off-the-beaten-path locations and travel along the Cape Arago Highway before meandering through the historic Bayside Marshfield District, which features buildings, theaters, shops, restaurants, galleries, and town greens from yesteryears.
The town is nestled between the rugged coastline that defines the state, towering sand dunes, Elliott State Forest, and Shore Acres State Park, inviting outdoor enthusiasts and travelers for both land and sea adventures. Without the crowds, visitors can enjoy a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, with Florence, Oregon, just an hour away for day trips, and more stunning beaches along the scenic Cape Arago Highway. Highlights include the Coos Art Museum, showcasing avant-garde and coastal scenery art, and the Coos History Museum, offering engaging historical insights. The Oregon Coast Music Festival in July, sightseeing cruises, and watching sunsets from the beach are must-do activities.
Idaho City, Idaho
Just a short drive from Boise, the capital, Idaho City is a charming destination for a weekend filled with history and nature without the crowds. Founded in 1862 during the gold rush, it was once the largest city in the Northwest. From a peak population of 7,000 to just under 550 today, the town's 200 businesses from its boom days have left behind a rich architectural legacy and a wild west charm, with many buildings preserved or restored after fires, including a trading post, county jail, and firehouse. The Charcoal Gulch hike, a few minutes from downtown, offers a four-mile round trip that’s perfect for stretching your legs or for a sunrise adventure.
Don’t overlook the Boise Basin Museum for a dive into local history, or take a guided walk around town before exploring the Boise National Forest with your group. The popular route from Mores Creek Summit to Sunset Mountain through dry coniferous forests features stunning views, bright trailside wildflowers, and culminates in a breathtaking overlook of the hills and mountains. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, the town offers trails for all skill levels, including the family-friendly 1.8-mile Buena Vista Loop, perfect for a leisurely forest stroll.
Newport, Oregon
Newport, a captivating town where Yaquina Bay meets the Pacific Ocean along Oregon's western coast, is steeped in history that dates back at least 3,000 years to the Yacona tribe. Today, it is home to around 10,500 people and thrives as a marine community, boasting the state's largest commercial fishing fleet. The town offers a variety of attractions for families and individuals alike, including the renowned Oregon Coast Aquarium, marine science research facilities, a vibrant arts scene, and a rich food culture, earning it the title of “Dungeness Crab Capital of the World.”
Located approximately 2.5 hours southwest of Portland, Newport is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway filled with maritime experiences. Attractions include the historic Yaquina Bay Bridge, Yaquina Head Lighthouse, and, of course, the Oregon Coast Aquarium, which was once the home of Keiko, the orca made famous by the movie "Free Willy." Visitors can also explore the Marine Science Center, encounter sharks, rays, and exotic sea life in the underwater tunnel, and interact with the giant Pacific octopus, sea birds at the aviary, and creatures in the touch pool and moon jelly tank.
Reedsport, Oregon
Reedsport, once reached by those who extended the Southern Pacific Railroad to Coos Bay, is surrounded by ancient forests and serves as a gateway to outdoor activities like hiking and camping. As the center for the Oregon Dunes, Reedsport keeps a charming small-town feel, with features such as chainsaw-carved wood sculptures and painted totem poles that tell its story. Situated along the Umpqua River, the 55-acre Hinsdale Garden displays rare and vintage rhododendrons, offering an educational and sensory-rich walk just outside town on Highway 38.
The town offers easy access to both the ocean and the dunes, bringing to life a mix of dry and wet adventure scenarios amidst its three rivers and wildlife-rich forests. At the heart of the real Oregon Coast crossroads, Reedsport reveals the rugged spirit of the state and its own significant history, complemented by scenic views, historic sites, and the modern culture of its friendly locals. The Umpqua Discovery Center integrates the area's cultural history with its natural surroundings through exhibits. Visitors can enjoy hands-on experiences along Dean Creek, featuring scenic picnic spots and the Roosevelt Elk Habitat, which is accessible year-round.
Snoqualmie, Washington
Snoqualmie, nestled in the Snoqualmie Valley, has developed around its railway system, turning the town, especially Railroad Avenue, into a living museum. At the heart of downtown, the Northwest Railway Museum explores the history of railroads with an extensive collection of artifacts and a book and gift shop that celebrates a vital piece of Washington's heritage. Snoqualmie Falls, attracting 1.5 million visitors annually, stands as the town's most celebrated natural landmark. This 270-foot waterfall, surrounded by hiking trails offering multiple viewing points, is a testament to nature's grandeur.
The falls and the adjacent 2-acre park are open daily from dawn to dusk, inviting both adventurous visitors and those who prefer a more leisurely experience at the gift shop. The Salish Lodge and Spa provides luxurious accommodations and pampering, and is pet-friendly. The town, known as the filming location for "Twin Peaks," offers opportunities to visit film sites, art galleries, and local restaurants. Just 30 minutes east of Seattle, Snoqualmie is famous for its stunning waterfall, a site considered sacred by the Snoqualmie Indians who see its cascading waters as spiritually significant. The site is easy to reach, with plenty of parking and amenities to ensure a memorable visit.
Westport, Washington
Westport, a quaint beach town at the mouth of Grays Harbor on Point Chehalis, remains under the radar for many in the Pacific Northwest, despite being a favorite local staycation spot for residents of Seattle and Portland. The Westport Marina District, bustling with photogenic fishing boats and sailboats, offers a glimpse into the town's vibrant maritime life. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, embark on fishing or whale-watching charters, or try crabbing along the beach. The historic Grays Harbor Lighthouse adds to the town's charm, offering picturesque views from the peninsula.
Westport attracts surfers and fishermen with its reliable waves and seasoned charter fleet. Its friendly vibe shines through in shops and restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood. With surf spots suitable for everyone, Westport is a leading surfing spot in the area. The long beaches are perfect for beachcombing, whale watching, and sunset viewing. Emphasizing a "disconnect, decompress, and recharge" attitude, Westport is very dog-friendly, welcoming visitors to enjoy its attractions with their pets.
PNW Overview
The Pacific Northwest (PNW) stretches from Washington's peninsulas to the mountainous paths of Idaho City, showcasing breathtaking natural scenery. Coos Bay, the largest deepwater port between Puget Sound and San Francisco, attracts boating, deep-sea fishing, and solitude seekers with its wide sea views. These six towns serve as gateways to "Cascadia," home to 31 national parks and many state parks, guiding visitors to lush rainforests, mountain trails, and gorgeous beaches. Newport captures the region's charm with historic bayfronts, lighthouses, and fresh local seafood, highlighting the captivating beauty of these lesser-known towns in the US.
