The Pacific Northwest is a region in the USA that is the literal definition of bountiful. Between the four states that make up the upper left corner of the country, the landscapes alone are enough to make your jaw drop, plus six National Parks filled with geysers, lakes, volcanoes, rainforests, and towering trees. There are also bustling cities that consistently win global acclaim with their food and beverage scenes. You could easily plan a trip hitting up Portland, Seattle, or Boise and get a great mix of everything the PNW has to offer.
But sometimes you want a vacation with a bit of a slower pace. Visiting a state’s “second cities,” or the cities that aren’t the biggest or most popular but still a favorite among residents, has become a new travel trend. But I want to let you in on a little secret: second cities are still pretty busy. If you’re REALLY looking for a relaxing getaway, then you have to visit “third cities,” aka the true hidden gems.
I’ve lived in the Pacific Northwest for almost fifteen years, and these are my favorite quiet getaways in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Northern California.
Northern California
Just getting into the cusp of the Pacific Northwest, Northern California is often overlooked in favor of its more forested states. But if you’ve been to Northern California, you know just how much this area seamlessly blends in with the rest of the PNW. In particular, these two towns are quintessential PNW vibes, but with their own unique charm…