Road trips make for incredible adventures when taken with a bunch of pals or that special someone. These journeys' highlights unquestionably lie in the pit stops made along the way. Making such stops is the ideal method for taking in the assets along the route. Portland and Seattle are about 180 mi (290 km) away and would take about 3 hours when traveling straight through. However, for the best experience, visitors should spread it out over a few days and visit these picturesque parks, mountains, gardens, islands, and lakes, as well as any of the many available trails.
9 The Lan Su Chinese Garden
In the center of Portland lies this true oasis. It was established as a joint venture between Portland and Suzhou, Portland's Chinese sister city. It was created in a way that balances architecture, design, and the natural world. Visitors to this botanical park are sure to take away a wealth of knowledge about nature from its stunning architecture. The Lan Su Chinese Garden is regarded as the most authentic Chinese garden located outside of China.
- Why it is interesting: Nature, Picturesque Design
- Location: 239 NW Everett Street, Portland OR 97209
- Phone: (503) 228-8131
8 Bachelor Island
Bachelor Island extends from River Mile (RM) 88 to RM 91.5 on the Washington side of the Columbia River. It is only accessible by boat and shares a portion of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. The renowned explorers Lewis and Clark gave it the name "Green Bryor Isd" in 1805. Both history and nature enthusiasts find it to be an intriguing location. According to the Center for Columbia River History, the enormous Columbia River is viewed by some as the most important environmental force in the Pacific Northwest.
- Interesting for: History, Nature
- Location: 1195 N 1st Ave, Ridgefield, WA98642
7 Lake Sacajawea
Outdoor enthusiasts adore Lake Sacajawea for its magnificent scenery. After spending the day in the automobile, the 3.5 miles of hiking trails are a terrific way to burn some calories. Canoeing and fishing are only two of the various activities allowed in this area. There also are Japanese gardens, where tourists may see plants that are unique to the region, and walk along bridges to enjoy gorgeous landscaping, fountains, gardens, and more.
- Interesting for: Nature, Serene environments, Fun activities
- Location: 1525 Broadway St, Longview, WA98632
- Phone: (360) 442-5421
6 Silver Lake
Along Washington State Route 504, Silver Lake is situated 9.7 km (6 mi) east of Castle Rock. It is 3000 acres in size. Camping, boating, fishing, and hunting are just a few of the outdoor activities available in the picturesque Silverlake region. Skiing and other outdoor sports are an hour away, while the Pacific Ocean is around 90 minutes to the west. Visitors who don't want to camp can stay at the Silver Lake Resort on the water, where rooms have balconies with a view of the water. They can fish from the comfort of their lodgings by casting a line from the balcony.
- Interesting for: Fun outdoor activities, Picturesque location
- Location: 3201 Spirit Lake, HwyCastle Rock, WA98611
- Phone: (360) 274-6141
5 Mount St. Helens Visitor Center
The largest documented landslide occurred in 1980 when Mount St. Helens erupted. At the visitor center in Castle Rock, Washington, tourists discover everything there is to know about this eruption. There are several centers, each with a special and intriguing offering. The best thing is that going is free, and they will enjoy some fantastic views of the surrounding. Additionally, there is a free, family-friendly Forest Learning Center with a particularly fascinating "eruption chamber."
- Interesting for: History, Picturesque location, and serene environments
- Location: 3029 Spirit Lake, HwyCastle Rock, WA 98611
- Phone: (360) 274-0962
4 Lewis and Clark State Park
Visitors can spend the night at the 621-acre Lewis and Clark State Park. They can also take a self-guided tour of all the fascinating trees while at camp, and they'll get a chance to observe the stars like never before. This park is a must-visit for everyone who enjoys the great outdoors because it has five miles of hiking trails. It is situated in a Douglas fir and red cedar-dominated old-growth forest.
- Interesting for: Nature, Camping, Fun outdoor activities
- Location: 4583 Jackson Hwy, Winlock, WA98596
- Phone: (360) 864-2643
3 The Olympic Flight Museum
The history of flight is still alive at the Olympic Flight Museum in Olympia, Washington. It is extremely popular with everyone who enjoys aviation. They get to see more than 20 vintage aircraft ranging from military aircraft to historical helicopters, that have all been meticulously maintained. Visitors should stop by when the museum hosts its yearly air show since people come from all across Washington to watch the incredible aircraft in flight.
- Interesting for: Flight History, Annual air show
- Location: 7637 Old Highway 99 SE, Tumwater, WA98501
- Phone: (360) 705-3925
2 Point Defiance Park
Point Defiance Park, located in Tacoma, Washington, is approximately 700 acres in size and features gorgeous flower beds, beaches, a forest, paths, a zoo, and an aquarium (the only combined aquarium and zoo in the area). Every year, around three million individuals visit this park. The park has beaches, a boardwalk, several pathways, and a petting zoo. Adults and children alike love visiting the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium because there are so many species to observe, such as Sumatran tigers, red wolves, and an Asian elephant.
- Interesting for: Picturesque location, Zoo, and Aquarium
- Location: 5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma, WA98407
- Phone: (253) 591-5337
1 Saltwater State Park
Right before Seattle is Saltwater State Park which is one of the most popular state parks with a sandy beach retreat on the outskirts of Washington state's largest urban area. It has a shoreline length of more than 1,445 feet and is dominated by aquatic life that lives in tidal pools. Numerous activities, including camping, hiking, boating, and fishing, are available to visitors. This is the only state park in the United States with an artificial reef below the surface. In addition, it is a wonderful location for swimming and a protected marine sanctuary.
- Interesting for: Water and fun outdoor activities, Camping
- Location: 25101 Marine View Dr S, Seattle, WA 98198
- Phone: (253) 661-4956