The Pacific Northwest (PNW) is highly diverse geographically, and its cities rank among some of the most scenic in the US. As magical as Seattle is in the PNW, travelers seek small towns for some R&R, a change in pace, and scenery that small towns in general deliver. The ones in the PNW rocket you into the otherworldly appeal in a heartbeat.
From sea stacks and towering headlands to the winter wonderland in the Cascade Mountains, arguably, there's no more fairytale-like region than the PNW. Pick your fairy tale to ensue in unobscured ocean views, a charming mountain hamlet, or an unobscured reminder of Europe. Even the first town's name sounds like an ancient spell.
Mazama, Washington
The spectacular North Cascade Mountains surround the town of Mazama, Washington.
Hidden in the rain shadow within hemlocks and firs along the eastern Cascades, this serene mountain hamlet in Methow Valley is quickly gaining perspective as a year-round getaway amidst some of the most varied mountain terrain for climbers and heli-ski fans alike. More than a pit stop on a statewide backpacking or road trip, drop by the infamous Mazama Store for gas, with a magical bakery daily dishing out fresh baguettes, pastries, and crafted coffee drinks, including seasonal specials.
Editorial Photo Credit: Zack Frank via Shutterstock. Washington Pass Observation Site, Scenic spot in Mazama, Washington State, USA
Defined by its fairy dust-like powder, a winter wonderland ensues with over 120 miles of Nordic trails, luring snow bunnies on a backcountry skiing trip. The less humid summers are ideal for hiking and mountain biking, with opportunities for kayaking, whitewater rafting, and fishing on the Methow River. Whether you opt for the Inn at Mazama or camping, drink in the pine-scented air at Mazama Public House, with tasty food, artwork, and gorgeous patio views of the national park's evergreen-studded mountains.
Downtown street in Mount Angel, Oregon. Image credit Leigh Trail via Shutterstock
Just 18 miles northeast of Salem, Mt. Angel lures city dwellers for a quick getaway, plus the nearby acres of Christmas tree farms along the winding Oregon Route 214. Once settled by the Bavarians and Swiss, its strong cultural identity is reflected in European vestiges and the natural beauty of the Willamette Valley. From authentic architecture and storefronts to the 49-foot glockenspiel clock tower and the family-friendly Oktoberfest, the magic downtown extends to the nearby Mount Angel Abbey.
Mount Angel, Oregon, USA - July 8th, 2021: Beautiful building in German style. Editorial Photo Credit: Victoria Ditkovsky via Shutterstock
The monastery feels plucked from overseas, with a coffeehouse, bookstore, library, and museum along the grounds. Truly a sight to behold, you can explore with elevated views of the rolling farmland onto the foothills of the nearby Cascades, including the stratovolcano Mount Hood, Oregon's highest peak. In the summer, the lush, tall canopy of fir and hemlock trees guides you towards the 9,000-acre Silver Falls State Park, Oregon’s largest, with over 25 miles of trails and up to 100-foot cascades.
Neah Bay, Washington
Hikers on Shi Shi Beach Trail in Olympic National Park near Neah Bay, Washington.
Neah Bay is a remote coastal town on the Olympic Peninsula, near the northwesternmost point of the contiguous US, Cape Flattery. Still home to the Makah Indian Tribe, the Makah Museum features a gallery, outdoor sculptures, archaeological artifacts, and a replica longhouse to step inside. Stepping outside feels like a time warp in the gentle breeze by the beach. The otherworldly appeal extends from local beaches, perfect for fishing and diving, into the vast outdoors.
Cape Flattery, Washington, USA - June 11, 2023 : Tourists at Cape Flattery Observation Deck. Cape Flattery is the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States. Editorial Photo Credit: Nick Fox via Shutterstock.
Just west, you can feel in complete solitude at the Cape Flattery Observation Deck. Take the trailhead to the world 's-edge views of nearshore islets and towering trees wrapping the peninsular bluffs. Shi Shi Beach, an extension of the national park, is a worthwhile drive from town, offering a surreal mix of rainforest hiking and beach walking. The atmosphere along the boardwalk is jungle-like, and there are forest camping opportunities available. Scramble around Point of Arches at low tide, with sunset photoshoots along the west-facing shoreline.
Neskowin, Oregon
Neskowin, Oregon, beach state recreation site.
Neskowin is a carefree, coastal hamlet at heart, with galleries and cafes lining Hawk Creek along Salem Avenue, steps from the beautiful, 3+ mile-long fine-sanded beach. Stretching north from the creek mouth, follow the clear water's reflection around the hollow rocks, where shells and crabs live, to the sea stacks and formations offshore. Whether hiking the dramatic Cascade Head, rising to 1,200 feet, or exploring the area beneath it, it is a visually captivating reminder that fantasy comes in various shapes.
The stumpy Ghost Forest is a desolate sandy slice of the 2,000-year-old bygone coastal forest. Treading north, in view of the Proposal Rock, this unique "seastack" with an arch and a tuft of trees is particularly stunning when the sunset shines from behind. Head north to the wildly scenic Nestucca River to launch your canoe or kayak through the pristine bird estuary of Nestucca Bay. Alternatively, you can keep your feet dry along the Pacific Crest Wayside and drink in the stunning Pacifica.
Pacific City, Oregon
Launch in Pacific City, Oregon. Image: Bob Pool - Shutterstock
This census-designated North Coast area is a beachfront playground for ocean lovers, with views that do the name justice along Oregon’s untouched seacoast beneath the towering Cape Kiwanda, featuring sea stacks, heart-pounding surf, sandy beaches, and pristine dunes. From fishing to hiking and blufftop picnics, choose your own adventure, or observe surfers ride beneath the large rocky headland. The waves and wind set the pace, luring surfers, kite-flyers, and hang-gliders.
A Couple walks their dog on McPhillips Beach, Pacific City, Oregon
Chief Kiwanda Rock peels off perfect waves across the beach, while the Pacific City Pathways downtown wind through an old-growth forest to a vantage of this haystack. Rooted in the Pacific, with rentals, multiple waves for all levels, and local surfing experts, grab a kayak to paddle down the gentle Nestucca River into the ocean, or hop on a fun dory boat fishing trip. Just south, Bob Straub State Park offers swimming, fishing, and horseback riding, spanning over 480 acres and featuring a beach.
Poulsbo, Washington
Homes along the water in Poulsbo, Washington.
Poulsbo immerses you in fairytale vibes across the Puget Sound from Seattle, right at the heart of the Kitsap Peninsula. Once settled for the homeland-like views by Norwegians, the "Little Norway on the Fjord" lured more Scandinavian newcomers and continues to astound today as an enchanting escape to the Norse in Washington. In the blink of an eye, you're head-over-heels for the picturesque downtown, with Scandinavian architecture, family-run bakeries, and cultural events.
Homes along the water in Poulsbo, Washington. Image credit: Ian Dewar Photography / Shutterstock.com
Plan to attend the monthly Norwegian Pancake Breakfast on the first Sunday of each month, the monthly Poulsbo Artwalk on the second Saturday, or stay for both. There's plenty to explore on a casual stroll along the waterfront historic district, with museums, galleries, shopping, and cafes. In addition to the bayfront trails at Poulsbo Park for bird watching and public art, you can try oystering, visit the SEA Discovery Center, and catch the sunset west over the marina's white sails.
Tillamook, Oregon
Aerial view of the charming town of Tillamook, Oregon.
Are you slightly more impartial to dairy than the average cheese- and ice-cream-loving fella? Home to just over 5,000, the county seat at the heart of Oregon Coast dairyland is your fairyland. Observe the tedious creation process and taste the delicacies at Tillamook Creamery, open daily for tours and tastings. This crafty community is not all cheesy, with local greens, brews, and quilts at Latimer Quilt & Textile Center. Tangled in trails at the confluence of three rivers, Tillamook is a kayaker’s paradise.
The charming downtown area of Tillamook, Oregon. Image credit: Victoria Ditkovsky / Shutterstock.com.
Pristine beaches envelop Tillamook Bay, Oregon’s largest and most accessible. You can take a stretch of the Three Capes Scenic Loop downtown, skirting south of Tillamook Bay, on a hike towards the 1888 Cape Meares Lighthouse along the spectacular Oregon Coast. Finally, drop by for ice cream, cheese, or a pairing at Blue Heron Cheese Company, a family-friendly wine market and restaurant offering great food, wine tasting, and a coffee bar, along with a gift shop, petting zoo, and even camping facilities.
Just off the beaten path, these seven towns deliver the local vibes and picturesque landscapes like no other. Poulsbo's Viking sculptures by the fjord of Puget Sound and Mt. Angel Abbey, near Christmas tree farms, feel straight out of a storybook, not out of place.
Whether you're after the Oregon dairyland by the state's densest bay, horseback riding on Neskowin's beach, or the European charm in either state, live out the fantasy through the Pacific Northwest's small towns with a storybook feel downtown, wrapped in the PNW's majesty.
