10 Coolest Towns In The Pacific Northwest For A Summer Vacation In 2024 (2024)

Travelers planning a summer vacation in the Pacific Northwest need look no further! The region is brimming with charming towns that offer unique experiences, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local cultures.

From the sun-drenched trails and breweries of Bend, Oregon, and the Bavarian allure of Leavenworth, one of Washington's prettiest winter towns that also comes alive in the summer, to the cultural richness of Ashland with its renowned Shakespeare Festival and the thrilling outdoor activities in Hood River, some of the most underrated but scenic places in the Pacific Northwest are in the region's cool little towns.

Each town has its own distinct charm and history, making the PNW area ideal for summer exploration. Whether travelers are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local art and history, these cool towns in the Pacific Northwest promise unforgettable summer memories.

10 Bend, Oregon

Bend is known for its vibrant outdoor culture, extensive craft breweries, and scenic landscapes

Originally a logging town established in the early 1900s, Bend, Oregon, has been transformed into a hub for outdoor recreation and tourism. Today, travelers flock to Bend for its abundant outdoor activities like mountain biking, hiking, and river rafting along the Deschutes River.

The town boasts a lively arts scene, numerous craft breweries, and a vibrant downtown, making it a cool summer destination to experience the region's natural beauty and laid-back vibe. With the Cascade Mountains as its backdrop, Bend offers adventure seekers an ideal summer getaway.

9 Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth's Bavarian-themed architecture and alpine setting make it a unique summer destination.

Once a struggling logging and rail town, Leavenworth, Washington, reinvented itself as a charming Bavarian village in the 1960s to boost tourism. Today, travelers are drawn to Leavenworth's authentic German-style buildings, lively festivals, and abundant outdoor adventures.

Visitors can explore the Bavarian-themed shops and restaurants, or enjoy hiking, river rafting, and zip-lining amid the stunning Cascade Mountains. With its unique blend of Old World charm and outdoor thrills, Leavenworth promises an unforgettable summer escape bursting with mountain scenery, German culture, and adventurous spirit.

8 Ashland, Oregon

Ashland is famous for its cultural events, particularly the Oregon Shakespeare Festival

Founded in the mid-19th century as a milling town, Ashland, Oregon, has blossomed into a cultural hotspot thanks to its thriving theater community. Today, travelers are drawn to Ashland for its vibrant arts scene, highlighted by the world-renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

Visitors can immerse themselves in top-notch theatrical productions, explore eclectic galleries, and savor the town's buzzing culinary offerings. With its lively summer calendar of festivals and events, Ashland offers a delightful escape for culture vultures seeking a dose of sophistication amid stunning natural surroundings.

7 Hood River, Oregon

Hood River is a paradise for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts due to its steady Columbia River Gorge winds

Hood River, Oregon, initially an agricultural town renowned for its fruit orchards, has evolved into a famous destination for water sports enthusiasts. Today, it is a hotspot for windsurfing and kiteboarding, attracting adventurers from all over.

The town also boasts excellent hiking and biking trails, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. This summer, Hood River offers a perfect blend of thrilling sports and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers of all ages seeking adventure and relaxation.

6 Port Townsend, Washington

This Victorian seaport town offers a mix of historical charm, maritime activities, and artistic events

Founded in 1851 as a bustling seaport, Port Townsend, Washington, was once renowned for its grand Victorian buildings. Nowadays, this charming town delights history buffs, art lovers, and sailors alike with its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, thriving arts community, and picturesque waterfront.

Visitors can explore enchanting museums, browse eclectic galleries, or simply relax by the water while watching local boat traffic. With a lively calendar of festivals and events throughout the summer, Port Townsend offers a delightful escape into the past coupled with modern-day cultural vibrancy, making it an upbeat destination for travelers of all ages seeking a taste of Pacific Northwest history and seaside charm.

5 Cannon Beach, Oregon

The town of Cannon Beach is known for its stunning coastal scenery, including the iconic Haystack Rock

Established as a resort town in the early 20th century catering to the wealthy, Cannon Beach, Oregon, has evolved into a beloved seaside getaway with tons of fun activities for all. Today, travelers are drawn to its dramatic rocky shoreline, eclectic art galleries, and charming downtown brimming with boutiques and eateries.

Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, build sandcastles on the expansive beach, or simply bask in the town's laid-back coastal vibe. With its breathtaking natural scenery, vibrant arts community, and family-friendly activities, Cannon Beach offers an upbeat summer escape for travelers of all ages and budgets seeking an authentic Oregon coast experience.

4 Winthrop, Washington

Winthrop's Wild West-themed downtown and proximity to North Cascades National Park make it a unique summer destination

Established during the 19th-century gold rush, Winthrop, Washington, has carefully preserved its rich Western heritage. In modern times, this authentic Old West town charms visitors with its wooden boardwalks, frontier-style buildings, and annual '49er Days festival celebrating its mining roots.

Beyond the historical charm here, Winthrop offers abundant outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and horseback riding in the surrounding Methow Valley. The town also offers a lively summer events calendar, friendly locals, and stunning natural scenery, promising an upbeat getaway for all ages to step back in time while creating new memories. Although no major fortunes emerged, the town's Wild West spirit endures.

3 Astoria, Oregon

Astoria is rich in maritime history and offers beautiful views of the Columbia River and Pacific Ocean

Founded in 1811, Astoria, Oregon, is steeped in history as the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains and a key fur trading post. However, the area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes like the Clatsop and Chinook people.

These days, Astoria enchants visitors with its beautifully preserved historical sites, lively arts community, and stunning views of the mighty Columbia River meeting the Pacific Ocean. From exploring Lewis and Clark interpretive centers to attending lively festivals, this vibrant coastal town offers myriad opportunities to immerse oneself in Oregon's rich cultural tapestry.

With plentiful outdoor recreation, museums, and scenic vistas, Astoria is the perfect Oregon trip for first-time visitors to the state in the summer, where they can come and discover its captivating past and present.

2 Friday Harbor, Washington

Located in the San Juan Islands, Friday Harbor is a picturesque town perfect for whale watching and exploring the outdoors

Established in the late 19th century as a humble fishing and farming community, Friday Harbor on San Juan Island has blossomed into a delightful tourist destination. Today, this quaint maritime town charms visitors with its abundance of water activities like whale watching, kayaking, and sailing through all the scenic San Juan Islands.

Travelers are also drawn to Friday Harbor's lively arts scene, featuring galleries, theaters, and the delightful Outdoor Sculpture Park. With its picturesque harbors, access to hiking trails, and a funky downtown brimming with local shops and eateries, Friday Harbor offers an upbeat summer escape for all ages.

1 Bellingham, Washington

Bellingham combines outdoor adventure with a vibrant cultural scene, nestled between Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains

Founded in the mid-19th century as a hub for coal mining and timber, Bellingham, Washington, has reinvented itself as an outdoor enthusiast's paradise with a vibrant artistic community. Travelers flock to this waterfront city for its easy access to hiking, biking, and water sports coupled with a thriving craft brewery and culinary scene.

With a view of Canada just across the bay, Bellingham also offers a taste of international flair. Unofficially dubbed the "City of Subdued Excitement," it also hosts live comedy shows featuring local talent. From active adventures to cultural attractions, Bellingham provides a fun summer getaway for all ages.