Northwest Vacation Ideas

Visitors to Seattle and the Northwest have plenty to see and do.

The northwestern section of the U.S. --- made up of Oregon, Idaho and Washington State --- is a vacation destination for those looking to escape the crowds typically associated with hotspot American vacation areas like beaches, national monuments or amusement parks. The Northwest has plenty to offer, from the pristine coasts of the Pacific region to inland areas in northern Idaho and plenty in between.

Seattle Space Needle

Located on Broad Street in downtown Seattle, the 605-foot high Space Needle gives visitors a fantastic 360 degree view of the cityscape and the Washington coastline. Built in 1962, the Space Needle has a restaurant underneath the main observation decks where diners view the city while feasting on some of the city's best fare. The 3,700-ton structure is open year round, and several accommodations in the area cater to weary travelers. As of 2011, basic admission to the Space Needle is $18 for people 14 to 64; seniors 65 and older, children under 14 and military personnel are eligible for a $2 discount. Several cafes, shops and renowned coffee houses are within walking distance.

Lava Hot Springs

Off the beaten path in northern Idaho is Lava Hot Springs, a relatively small town whose claim to fame is the natural hot springs that bubble up from the ground. Visitors can partake of the relaxing waters at many public spas and pools. Other water-based recreation is on hand, too: Vacationers can take an adventurous float down the nearby Portneuf River or swim in the Lava Hot Springs's Olympic Swimming Complex Resort. Visitors can stay at several locally owned motels and hotels, or they can choose to stay at any of the complex's local campgrounds. Admission usually ranges from $5 to $7 year round.

Mount Hood Park

Skiers and snowboarders can hit the slopes of Oregon's Mount Hood and stay in any of the top rated resorts that dot the mountain's landscape. A U.S. national park, Mount Hood receives about 430 inches of snowfall annually, which means there's usually fresh powder on the slopes nearly every week during prime skiing season. At a height of 7,300 feet above sea level, the mountain surrounds visitors with natural beauty. Daily rates vary per season.

Vancouver, BC

A vacation to the Northwest doesn't have to be confined only to the States; a short drive from Seattle lands visitors in Vancouver, British Columbia, site of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. A city that prides itself on being eco-friendly, Vancouver offers vacationers shopping excursions as well as museums and art exhibits. Outdoor activity is a favorite pastime for the locals, so visitors can take in the city by bike riding along the seawall or in any of the landscaped parks throughout the area. Be advised non-Canadian visitors will need valid forms of I.D. as well as a current passport to visit Vancouver.

References

• "Pacific Northwest: Seattle, Portland, Victoria, Vancouver & Other Destinations;" Corey Sandler; 2001
• Space Needle: Ticket Rates