Exploring the Pacific Northwest: A Trip Through Portland and Seattle
Tanya and I recently took an incredible trip through Portland and Seattle, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty, vibrant culture, and amazing food of the Pacific Northwest. From breathtaking waterfalls to scenic coastal drives and iconic city sights, every moment was unforgettable.
Portland: A Perfect Start
We arrived in Portland and checked into our hotel, eager to explore the city’s renowned food scene. Our first stop was Screen Door – Pearl, where we indulged in some of the best Southern comfort food on the West Coast—crispy fried chicken and fluffy biscuits that set the bar high for the rest of the trip.
Next, we took a scenic drive to Canon Beach, stopping along the way to admire the waterfalls and lush greenery that make Oregon so magical. The coastal views were breathtaking, and we couldn’t resist walking along the shore to take in the famous Haystack Rock. Lunch in Astoria was a treat, offering fresh seafood and small-town charm before we continued to Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, a rugged and historic spot with incredible views of the Pacific Ocean.
As evening approached, we made our way to Seattle, settling into our Airbnb and grabbing dinner before gearing up for more adventures.
Seattle: City Sights and Hidden Gems
We kicked off our Seattle adventure at Pike Place Market, where the energy was infectious—fishmongers tossing fresh seafood, flower stalls bursting with color, and the scent of freshly baked pastries in the air. A classic Seattle breakfast fueled us for the day before we wandered along the waterfront, soaking in the sights and stopping at Wings Over Washington, a breathtaking virtual flight over the state’s diverse landscapes.
A highlight of the day was the Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour, where we glided through the Puget Sound, learning about Seattle’s history and admiring its skyline from the water. After a leisurely lunch, we dove underground for Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour, uncovering the hidden history of Seattle’s original city streets beneath Pioneer Square.
In the evening, we took a well-earned break at our Airbnb before heading out to The Mountaineering Club, a rooftop bar offering stunning panoramic views. The night was capped off with a mesmerizing performance by Benise, where the fiery rhythms of Spanish guitar created the perfect ambiance. A late-night stop at Shawarma King satisfied our cravings before calling it a night.
Seattle’s Must-See Attractions
On our final day, we started with a delicious breakfast before heading to the Seattle Aquarium, where we got up close with otters, seals, and a dazzling array of marine life. The beauty of Chihuly Garden and Glass was simply mesmerizing—brilliant glass sculptures set against the backdrop of the city’s skyline.
After lunch, we visited two Seattle icons: the Space Needle, offering 360-degree views of the city and beyond, and the Museum of Pop Culture, a paradise for music, film, and sci-fi lovers. A quick coffee stop fueled us for the last stretch of our trip before heading back to our Airbnb to relax.
For our final meal, we dined at Salty’s, a waterfront seafood restaurant with breathtaking views of the Seattle skyline. The fresh, perfectly prepared seafood was the ideal way to wrap up an amazing journey.
Final Thoughts
This trip through Portland and Seattle was an incredible mix of nature, history, music, and food, and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Whether it was the coastal beauty of Oregon or the urban charm of Seattle, every stop along the way offered something unique and unforgettable. We can’t wait to return—maybe next time in the summer for even more outdoor adventures!

















