Foodie Road Trip Pacific Northwest
Lush forests, fertile farmland, and coastal havens, oh my! This is the ultimate foodie road trip in the Pacific Northwest (options for vegans and meat-lovers).
- The Pacific Northwest is bursting with edible treasures, from coastal seafood to ancient prairie orchards. You can also find a ton of top-rated (and Instagram-famous) foodie spots around every corner inWashington,Oregon, andIdaho.
Whether you have a few hours or a few days to explore, we’ve got you covered.
We’d hate for you to get a flat tire—and then get hangry—while driving around exploring the apple groves. That’s why we recommend that you have roadside assistance before you head out. You can get a roadside assistance membership with
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Olympia, WA
Located an hour and a half from Seattle, Olympia is an essential stop for a foodie road trip in the Pacific Northwest. The city is set on incredibly rich land and its culture of creativity and innovation has generated tasty (and sustainable) dishes that highlight the region’s best ingredients in surprising ways.
Why go to Olympia
You’ll be surprised by the diversity of foods as well as the quality. It’s not all rough and tumble, dirt-covered produce here (although you’ll find that, too). Come here to experience true passion for local foods, innovative combinations, and farm-to-table and foraged goods.
Plus, it’s got some of the best mushrooms, oysters, and raw dairy in the country.
Where to eat in Olympia
- King Solomon's Reef($): Go to King Solomon’s Reef (a diner where Kurt Cobain ate) for a vintage diner experience.
- Sweet stops:Left Bank Pastrywill transport you to a Parisian patisserie, andSofie’s Scoopsis the best ice cream place in town.
Central and Eastern Washington
From the Tri-Cities on the Columbia River to the irrigated desert near Wenatchee, foodies should head east to escape the crowds and discover world-class food and wine in picturesque settings.
Why go to Central and Eastern Washington
It’s a bit of a trek if you’re coming from Seattle, but this area is the agricultural heart of the state. The food is great and you’ll get to eat it amidst beautiful scenery, either along the stunning Columbia River or the stark desert of Central Washington.
What to eat
- Wildflour($$): Go to Lake Wenatchee if you want the best restaurants. Wildflower is a great option for seasonal handmade pasta dishes.
- 59er Diner($$): You could find plenty of classic diners just off the highway, like the 59er Diner in Leavenworth.
- Walla Walla is the place to go for tasting rooms from the area’s wineries.Here'sa guide to get started on wine from the area.
- Colville Street Patisserie($$): Colville Street Patisserie is a diamond in the rough for homemade pastries, gelato, and even beer!
The Fruit Loop, Oregon
Fertile soil and a long history of land conservation have created the perfect conditions for fruit trees in Hood River, Oregon. Try to avoid the high season (tourists) if you can.
Why go to the Fruit Loop
This 35-mile scenic loop in Hood River just off the Columbia River is perfect for a slow, lazy drive. You’ll be rewarded with great orchards and the freshest fruits. Plus, there’s something to enjoy in nearly every season.
Where to eat at the Fruit Loop
- Apple Valley Country Store($$): Go to the Apple Valley Country Store for scones and huckleberry milkshakes.
- Draper Girls Country Farm: Draper Girls Country Farm has the best cherries, apples, and cider (and goats!).
- Solera BreweryFor views of the mountain, Solera Brewery can’t be beaten—and their soups, salads, and sandwiches are good, too.
Portland, Oregon
The hype is real. Don’t let Portland’s reputation as a foodie destination turn you off. There is plenty to discover in the alleys, pop-ups, and even the famous restaurants located in the City of Roses.
Why go to Portland
Portland’s food scene is constantly changing. From doughnuts to fancy vegan food as well as a crackling food cart scene, you are guaranteed to be satisfied—no matter your diet. On top of great food, Portland offers plenty of ways to keep busy, from the International Rose Test Garden to the Portland Japanese Garden.
What to eat in Portland
- Pip's($): Pip’s is another great choice for doughnuts and they’re very involved with the community (but get there early to avoid the long line).
- BBQ spots: Alberta and Mississippi Streets have mouthwatering BBQ and other Southern-style eats, likeSouthern Kitchen PDX.
- If you're tired of American food: Locals are obsessed withKachkafor Russian dumplings,Tuskfor incredible Middle Eastern food, andBroder Nordfor Scandinavian brunch. Don’t miss the food cart pods downtown and east of the River!
The Oregon Coast
Ragged and windswept, the Oregon coast is perfect for foodies who want to sample world-class seafood in between hikes among the redwoods.
Why go to the Oregon Coast
You’ll enjoy seafood right off the sea, gorgeous vistas, and plenty of natural foods. The hippie crowd mixing with the small-town dive scene in this area has created an interesting selection of foods and flavors.
What to eat on the Oregon Coast
- Beck($$): Try Restaurant Beck in Depoe Bay for ocean dining views and dishes with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
- Seafood spots:A trip to the coast would be incomplete without seafood. Hit upThe Schoonerin Netarts Bay for the experience andNevor Shellfish Farmin Tillamook.
- The Nest Cafe($): We also love The Nest Cafe in Port Orford, where the majority of items on your plate will be from the farm up the hill or the dock down the street). Make sure to save some time for hikes!
Pro tips
- Car campingis a great way to save money while road tripping along the coast.
- Coastal roads are generally safe, but roadside assistance is a smart (and cheap) way to set your mind at ease.
- Rain doesn’t stop most places from opening, but it’s always worth calling ahead to confirm hours.
Idaho
There’s a lot more to Idaho than potatoes. From its northern forests on the Canadian border to the surprisingly complex palate of Boise, Idaho is ready to enchant your tastebuds.
Why go to Idaho
Rough around the edges in all the best ways, Idaho has a lot to offer: game meat, incredible fish (like rainbow trout), huckleberries, and even Basque food in Boise. Plus, it’s under the radar for most PNW foodies who head straight to Seattle or Portland.
What to eat in Idaho
- Boise Fry Company($): The Sawtooth Mountains offer lots of fishing and camping, and you’ll get to see where local chefs obtain their ingredients. Sample fries at Boise Fry Company.
- For regional wines: If it’s wine country you’re after, head to Snake River Valley.Here'sa guide to get started.
Pro tips
- Wildfires are prevalent, so check weather conditions ahead of time.
- You’ll find something to eat in every season, but summer is the best time to head to Idaho.
Honorable mention: Whidbey Island and the Skagit Valley, WA
Just 40 minutes north of Seattle is the Skagit Valley. There’s a thrilling mixture of historic techniques and new inventions happening in the food scene here. We think it’s worth the trip.
Why go to Whidbey Island and the Skagit Valley
Enjoy incredible farm-fresh food while exploring rolling farmland and views of the Cascades. Pay close attention to the influence of Coastal Salish indigenous peoples as well as Dutch settlers.
Where to eat
- Calico Cupboard: The Calico Cupboard is a famous brunch spot in La Conner right on the Skagit River where you can eat massive cinnamon rolls outside.
- Take the ferry to Whidbey Island and stop byWhidbey Piesin Greenbank andThree Sisters Marketin Coupeville. We recommend a sunset picnic at Deception Pass.
How do I plan a foodie road trip?
The best foodie road trips take planning. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Start by choosing what type of food you want to try (i.e. affordable and under-the-radar or Michelin Star-quality). Perhaps you are on a mission to find the best apple pie in the Pacific Northwest.
- Now, commit to a length. Is this a half-day trip, a weekender adventure, or a week-long pilgrimage? This area of the country offers tons of outdoor recreation, and it’s well worth setting aside time to hike in addition to your foodie stops, if possible.
- Make sure you have a roadside assistance membership. Before you hit the road, sign up for a roadside assistance membership withJerry. Features include lockout services, towing, and even Uber credits—so you don’t miss your reservation!
- Check the Yelp reviews. Sometimes restaurants change hands or hire new chefs and it doesn’t go to plan.
- Don’t forget to make reservations and double-check operating hours. The "Closed" sign is a foodie’s worst nightmare. Enough said.
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FAQs
Where is the best vegetarian food in the Pacific Northwest?
Although the PNW places a major emphasis on seafood, vegetarians can find great food in every major city in the Pacific Northwest. Try locally foraged mushroom dishes or anything with asparagus and barley.
How should I handle parking on a foodie road trip?
Some cities are notoriously difficult (or expensive) when it comes to parking. One option is to stay outside the city, park your car, and use public transit to get around. Another option is to find a hotel that offers parking.
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