I might be a little biased, but I think that the Pacific Northwest (better known by locals as the PNW) is one of the best places to spend the summer. No matter where you live in the area, there are so many places to go all within a day's drive—and all so worth the trip! The opportunities for summer fun are endless between visiting Washington, Oregon, and even Idaho, and while there's no way to account for all of the destinations, here's a list of perfect day trips and adventures to take this summer if you're in the "Upper Left USA."
1. Spend a weekend at the Oregon Coast
It may not be known for being the warmest coastline ever, but the views and beaches at the Oregon Coast are breathtaking. From Cannon Beach (above) to Lincoln City to Seaside, there are incredible sites all the way down the coast—very worth the trip over.
2. Hike (or drive) up to Palouse Falls
Located in the rolling hills of the Palouse region, Palouse falls is one of eastern Washington's many hidden gems. It's also only a short drive from Washington State University.
3. College night (or any night) at a Mariner's game
Throughout the season, the Mariners have college nights where college students can get discounted tickets—score! But any night is a good night to head over to Seattle to watch the Ms. (Don't forget to order the garlic fries—Safeco Field does it best).
4. Parasailing in Coeur D' Alene
Lake Coeur D' Alene has endless things to do: parasailing, cliff jumping, a floating golf course (and floating restaurant), and seaplane tours. The lake-side town in Northern Idaho is the perfect day trip, but don't forget to stop in for the giant ice cream sundaes in the resort.
5. Go to the top of the Space Needle
If you're a visitor to Seattle, the Space Needle is really a given. The view from the top yields sight lines to the sound, all the way from Seattle Center to the Clink (Seahawks Stadium). A tourist must-do.
6. Hoopfest
Held in Spokane, Washington, Hoopfest is the largest 3-on-3 street basketball tournament in the world. Occurring at the end of June, the event brings in over 27,000 players from all over the country to participate, and courts span over 42 blocks throughout the downtown area. Even if you don't want to play, just watching games and taking advantage of the park full of food trucks is well worth it.
7. Silverwood Theme Park
Just north of Coeur D' Alene, Silverwood is the biggest theme park in the area. Not only is it an entire amusement park, but it also houses a full water park. Plus, there's even a place to camp if one day isn't enough.
8. Brave the Heights of Vance Creek Bridge
Just southwest of Seattle, Vance Creek is the second tallest bridge in America, and it's a destination spot for hikers, thrill-seekers, and adventurers alike. The fact that it's old and semi-dangerous isn't stopping anyone, and the sight makes for some incredible photo-ops. Definitely on my summer bucket list.
9. Getaway to Leavenworth
Placed in the Cascade mountains of central Washington, Leavenworth is a town that thrives on its concentration of tourism. It's built with architecture and flair to mimic a Bavarian German town, and it's the perfect mountain getaway in any time of year.
10. Explore Manito Park
Contrary to popular belief, Spokane has a lot of great places, including Manito Park. It's full of different areas like the Japanese and Botanical gardens, multiple fountains, and huge ponds. Definitely a gorgeous go-to spot.
I'll say it again and again, the PNW has more than enough incredible places to explore. It's a perfect place to adventure this summer, because let's be honest, "Northwest is best."
