My wife and I had some Real Estate biz to take care of in the Tacoma area, so we thought we’d add a few days and make it a long weekend trip.
The timing was perfect since ELO is on their final tour, we started our trip in Portland where they performed at the Moda Center. We stayed at the Doubletree which is a short walk to the Moda Center. The concert was excellent, it’s hard to say goodbye to another performer calling it quits.
The drive from Portland, Oregon, to Tacoma, Washington, is beautiful and offers plenty of interesting stops along the way. Here are some highlights:
Columbia River Gorge: Just east of Portland, this area features stunning waterfalls like Multnomah Falls and scenic viewpoints. Take the Historic Columbia River Highway for the best views.
Cannon Beach: A slight detour to the coast will take you to this charming beach town, known for its iconic Haystack Rock.
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument: A fascinating stop to learn about the 1980 eruption. The Johnston Ridge Observatory offers amazing views and educational exhibits.
Olympia: The state capital of Washington, Olympia has a nice waterfront area and the Washington State Capitol building to explore.
Tacoma: Check out the Museum of Glass or the LeMay - America’s Car Museum if you have time.
When it comes to food, the Northwest region of the U.S. is known for its diverse and fresh culinary scene … and if you’re a Salmon lover like me you can’t go wrong.
Here are some must-try foods:
Seafood: The Pacific Northwest is famous for its salmon, especially wild-caught varieties. Dungeness crab and Pacific oysters are also local favorites.
Huckleberries: These wild berries are a regional delicacy, often found in jams, pies, and desserts.
Wine: Washington's wine country, particularly the Columbia Valley, is renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Oregon is famous for its Pinot Noir.
Craft Beer: The region has a vibrant craft beer scene, with many breweries offering unique local brews.
Clam Chowder: Especially popular in coastal areas, try the creamy New England-style or the Manhattan version.
Wild Game: Game meats like elk and venison can often be found on menus, particularly in more rural areas.
Also, exploring local markets and festivals can also provide a taste of regional specialties!
Of course, if you drive another 40 minutes you can enjoy tons of things in Seattle … a few of our favorites include Pike Place Market, the original Starbucks and dinner at the Space Needle.
If you’ve never been to Seattle, I highly recommend the Seattle Underground Tour … it’s a unique and entertaining way to explore the city's history. Here’s what to expect:
Overview:
Location: The tour starts in Pioneer Square, Seattle's oldest neighborhood.
Duration: Typically lasts about 75 to 90 minutes.
Guides: Knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories, historical facts, and humorous anecdotes about Seattle’s early days.
What You’ll See:
Underground Passageways: The tour takes you through the underground tunnels and passageways that were once the street level of Seattle before the Great Fire of 1889.
Historical Sites: You’ll learn about the city’s origins, the rise and fall of its early businesses, and the quirky characters that shaped its history.
Reconstruction: The tour explains how and why parts of the city were built above the original streets.
Tips:
Tickets: It’s a good idea to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking and navigating through somewhat uneven surfaces.
Weather: The tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately.
This tour is a fun and educational way to delve into Seattle’s past, making it a great addition to your itinerary!
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