northern oregon coast
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The Best Towns on the Oregon Coast: A Local’s Guide

Oregon Seaside Towns The Oregon Coast is a road trippers’ scenic dream—where rugged cliffs meet windswept beaches, salty sea air mingles with forested hills, and each town has its own distinct personality. I’ve driven up and down this coast so many times over the years, in every season. Each trip lends something new to discover….

Depoe Bay Oregon

15 Gorgeous Places to Stay on the Oregon Coast

Where to Stay on the Oregon Coast The Oregon Coast is a breathtaking stretch of rugged coastline, spanning over 360 miles along the Pacific Ocean. It is known for its dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and charming seaside towns, all connected by the scenic Highway 101. First-time visitors to the Oregon Coast should expect a diverse…

Whidbey Island Beach
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Things to Do in Whidbey Island, Washington

If you’re looking for a serene escape with stunning views, charming towns, and activities that range from sipping wine to exploring historic forts, Whidbey Island, Washington, is calling your name. A short jaunt north from Seattle will take you to an island nestled in Puget Sound that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re in the…

Bend Waterfalls
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7 Best Waterfalls Near Bend, Oregon

When I first moved to Oregon, I could not believe the sheer number of waterfalls I encountered as I slowly made my way around the state. I was born and raised in Iowa, the land of no-waterfalls-to-speak-of, so this was pretty special. These grand testaments to nature are everywhere in Oregon; nestled in lush forests,…

seattle cocktail bars
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13 Best Cocktail Bars in Seattle (from a Local)

If you’re in Seattle and love a good cocktail…this post is for you. If you don’t drink alcohol but you have travel companions who do…this post is for you. And even if you don’t drink or have cocktail-loving friends…guess what? This post is for you! Because the mocktail movement in Seattle is alive and well…

Buck Mountain Trail
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10 Best Hikes in the Blue Mountains of Washington

Imagine immersing yourself in nature’s vibrant tapestry, surrounded by towering trees, majestic peaks, and a sense of adventure at every turn. Welcome to the Blue Mountains of Washington State, a hiker’s paradise nestled in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a novice explorer, these trails offer something for everyone, combining breathtaking views…

date ideas in Portland Oregon
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21 Romantic Date Ideas in Portland (from a Local)

Portland, Oregon, is a city that effortlessly blends its quirky charm with natural beauty, making it a perfect playground for couples looking to create memorable date experiences. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s no shortage of fun and romantic activities to explore. Here’s a roundup of the best date ideas in Portland that…

northern oregon coast
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The Best Coastal Hikes in Oregon

The Oregon Coast is a hiker’s paradise, offering an array of trails that range from easy strolls to challenging climbs. In this guide, I’ll take you to some of the best hiking trails along this stunning coastline. We’ll cover their locations, trail lengths, difficulty levels, unique features, and the best aspects of each trail. Be…

Hug Point
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Hug Point State Park Oregon – A Hidden Gem

If you’re seeking a blend of natural beauty and adventure, look no further than Hug Point State Park! Just a stone’s throw away from the vibrant town of Cannon Beach, this park is a treasure trove waiting to be uncovered. With its breathtaking ocean vistas, captivating tide pools, and dramatic cliffs, every corner of Hug…

best neighborhoods in seattle
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Where to Stay in Seattle – A Local’s Guide

Selecting the best neighborhood to stay in Seattle is the key to an unforgettable stay. With its diverse districts, each offering a unique character and charm, determining where you want to be can set the tone for your entire visit. Are you drawn to the bustling energy of downtown? Or perhaps the artistic vibes of…

Deception Pass Guide
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Your Guide to Deception Pass Camping in Washington

Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing against the shore, birds singing in the distance, and the scent of pine trees filling the air. This isn’t a dream—it’s camping at Deception Pass. Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Deception Pass offers a unique blend of breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and countless…

women hiking
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The Best Hiking Gear for Women

Hiking in the great outdoors has long been a favorite pastime for me. It offers an escape into nature and a great workout that rewards with incredible views, especially here in the Pacific Northwest. Women hikers have increasingly made their mark, challenging trails across the globe and proving the indomitable strength and resilience that lie…

Boutique Hotels in Portland
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14 Cool Boutique Hotels in Portland Oregon

If you are wondering where to stay in Portland that combines local flair with amazing amenities, you’re in the right place. Visitors will find the coolest hotels in Portland ranging from classic chic to retro vibes to artsy corners that are little havens of “Ahhh.” The hotel scene in Portland, Oregon is a treasure trove…

fun facts about Oregon
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Things to Do in Oregon – The Ultimate Guide

Oregon is best known for its diverse landscape, the rugged Pacific coastline, the volcanic Cascade Range, and numerous old-growth forests. The largest city, Portland, is famous for its eccentric, “keep Portland weird” culture and iconic parks. The state’s capital, Salem, is also rich in history, offering a glimpse into Oregon’s early beginnings. When I first…

coffee Portland Oregon
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Where to Find Good Coffee in Portland

Looking for the best coffee places in Portland? Look no further. I am coffee obsessed. It’s safe to say I need it pretty much every day, and I’m fortunate that my home town of Portland is renowned for its vibrant coffee culture as well as being a foodie destination. Home to a vast array of…

Christmas in Victoria
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The Best Christmas Markets in the Pacific Northwest

Whether or not you celebrate Christmas, it cannot be denied that the sights, sounds, and smells of a good Christmas market will entice even the heartiest of Scrooges. The Pacific Northwest provides visitors with a magical winter wonderland. Cozy small towns are blanketed in fresh snow, evergreen treetops glisten with twinkling lights, and the crisp…

Glamping in BC
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10 Best Spots for Glamping in BC, Canada

British Columbia is renowned for its breathtaking mountaintop views and beachfront getaways – ideal conditions for glamping. Glamping offers the chance to enjoy nature without roughing it – often even including electricity and running water – perfect if you want a luxury camping experience without going off-grid! BC Glamping When you want to go camping…

Mossbrae Falls California
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Below Oregon’s Edge: Places to Visit in Northern California

Where in the world can you experience towering alps, castles seemingly hanging in mid-air, a mystical mountainous spirit, bubbling hot pots from the center of the earth, and finish off the day at a world class Mediterranean restaurant, all within a day’s drive from each other? Hugging unusual frontiers, we’re edging out excitement, we’re going…

Things to Do in Seattle at night
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Things to Do in Seattle at Night

Seattle offers something to fit everyone’s nighttime entertainment needs; whether that means dancing until dawn, fantastic light show, culinary adventures, or simply sipping drinks with friends. Just as an example: explore one of the city’s exquisite parks that remain open late into the night – Gas Works Park or Alki Beach offer amazing nighttime views…

Camping the Oregon Coast – the Ultimate Guide
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Camping the Oregon Coast – the Ultimate Guide

Like many Oregonians, I’ve spent my fair share of spending the night under the stars, listening to the sounds of Oregon’s iconic craggy shoreline as the waves wash up along the shore. No matter where in the world my travels take me, nothing beats the lure of the Pacific, the intoxicating scent of fresh sea…