The Best Weekend Getaways in the Pacific Northwest (That Aren’t Overrun With Tourists)

The Pacific Northwest is packed with amazing places to explore, but if you’ve ever tried to book a last-minute weekend trip to Leavenworth or Cannon Beach, you know just how crowded and expensive things can get.

If you’re looking for a scenic, relaxing, and adventure-filled weekend getaway—without the tourist mobs—these lesser-known spots are perfect for your next trip.

Table of Contents

1. Bellingham, Washington – The Coolest PNW City No One Talks About
2. Port Townsend, Washington – A Victorian Seaside Escape
3. Joseph, Oregon – The Wallowas’ Best-Kept Secret
4. Long Beach, Washington – A Quiet Coastal Retreat
5. McKenzie River, Oregon – Waterfalls, Hot Springs, and Blue Pools
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1. Bellingham, Washington – The Coolest PNW City No One Talks About

“Bellingham, Washington” by Jasperdo is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Why It’s Amazing: Often overshadowed by Seattle, Bellingham is a dream for outdoor lovers, craft beer fans, and road trippers.
Things to Do:
- Drive the stunning Chuckanut Scenic Byway for ocean views and mountain backdrops.
- Hike to Whatcom Falls or Artist Point for jaw-dropping scenery.
- Explore the Bellingham Ale Trail—this town is a hidden craft beer capital.
Why It’s Less Touristy: Most visitors heading north go straight to Vancouver, BC, skipping Bellingham entirely.

2. Port Townsend, Washington – A Victorian Seaside Escape

Why It’s Amazing: This charming town has Victorian architecture, a walkable waterfront, and unbeatable sunset views over the Puget Sound.
Things to Do:
- Stroll through the historic downtown and waterfront.
- Explore Fort Worden State Park, where you can walk through abandoned bunkers with incredible ocean views.
- Go whale watching or take a ferry to the San Juan Islands.
Why It’s Less Touristy: Most visitors heading to the coast choose Seattle or the San Juans, leaving this hidden gem much quieter.

3. Joseph, Oregon – The Wallowas’ Best-Kept Secret

Wallowas, Joseph, oregon, mountains and a field.

Why It’s Amazing: Nestled in Oregon’s version of the Alps, Joseph is a dream for hikers, art lovers, and small-town charm seekers.
Things to Do:
- Ride the Wallowa Lake Tramway up to stunning mountain views.
- Hike to Ice Lake or the Matterhorn—two of the most scenic trails in the state.
- Wander through the town’s many art galleries and bronze sculptures.
Why It’s Less Touristy: The Wallowas are far from Oregon’s big cities, so only dedicated travelers make it out here.

4. Long Beach, Washington – A Quiet Coastal Retreat

Kite Festival with tons of kites in the air on Long Beach, Washington.

Why It’s Amazing: Unlike Cannon Beach, which is always packed, Long Beach is just as beautiful but way less crowded.
Things to Do:
- Walk along the world’s longest beach (literally named Long Beach).
- Explore Cape Disappointment State Park, home to epic coastal cliffs and historic lighthouses.
- Visit Oysterville, a tiny town famous for some of the best oysters in the PNW.
Why It’s Less Touristy: Most coastal visitors head to Oregon’s beaches, skipping this incredible stretch of Washington’s coastline.

5. McKenzie River, Oregon – Waterfalls, Hot Springs, and Blue Pools

Why It’s Amazing: This hidden gem along Oregon’s McKenzie River is packed with natural wonders, including waterfalls, hot springs, and the bluest water you’ve ever seen.
Things to Do:
- Hike to Tamolitch Blue Pool, a shockingly blue natural pool in the forest.
- Soak in the Terwilliger (Cougar) Hot Springs.
- Drive the McKenzie Pass-Santiam Scenic Byway, one of Oregon’s most underrated road trips.
Why It’s Less Touristy: Most Oregon tourists head to the Columbia River Gorge for waterfalls, missing out on this equally stunning area.