A Journey Between Bellingham and Portland: Top Five Popular Attractions
Welcome to the beautiful journey between Bellingham, Washington, and Portland, Oregon. This trip is packed with natural wonders, historic sites, and amazing food destinations. Whether you're an ambitious explorer or just seeking a leisurely retreat, this trip has something for everyone. Here are the top five popular attractions to see between Bellingham and Portland.
The Halfway Point: Lakewood, WA
Lakewood, Washington, welcomes visitors to the heart of Puget Sound. Located midway between Bellingham and Portland, Lakewood is a beautiful city with over 60 parks and scenic lakes. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking. Explore the Lakewood Historical Society Museum or take a walk through the Fort Steilacoom Park. If you're traveling with children, the Lakewold Gardens and Children's Museum of Tacoma are great stops. There are plenty of food destinations in the area, including the amazing coffee shops and bakeries that dot the city.
Top Five Places to Visit
1. Mount St. Helens
Mount St. Helens is an active stratovolcano located 96 miles south of Seattle. The most significant eruption happened in 1980, which claimed 57 lives and destroyed thousands of homes. Since then, the mountain has been an iconic destination in Washington state. Visitors can take a hike to the Johnston Ridge Observatory or explore the Ape Cave Lava Tube. While hiking, visitors can see the impact on the surrounding ecosystem from Mount St. Helens eruption.
2. Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is a breathtaking destination in the Pacific Northwest. The 80-mile canyon cuts through the Cascade Mountains and is a popular outdoor destination for hiking and sightseeing. Some of the popular hikes include Angel's Rest Trail and Multnomah Falls Hike. Additionally, the scenic drives provide panoramic views of the Columbia River, showcasing its beauty in all its glory.
3. Mount Hood
Mount Hood is an active volcano located in Oregon, 50 miles east of Portland. The highest point in Oregon, it provides some of the best skiing destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Visitors can take the Mount Hood Scenic Byway, which provides breathtaking views of the mountain during summer. There are several trails for hiking within the area; visitors can explore the Historic Timberline Trail or hike to the top of Mount Hood.
4. Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum
The Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum is a visually stunning destination in Seattle. The museum showcases the works of Dale Chihuly, a renowned glass artist. Visitors can enjoy a mesmerizing display of his artwork spread across eight galleries, including the stunning Glasshouse. The gardens spread across the museum compliment the artwork displays and are a treat to explore.
5. Seattle's Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is the country's oldest farmer's market and a Seattle staple. Visitors can explore over 200 local vendors, selling fresh produce, seafood, and handmade crafts. The market's entertainment is another great reason to visit, with street performers and musicians entertaining the crowds every day. Visitors can indulge in crab cakes, clam chowder, fish and chips, and other seafood delicacies, making it an excellent food destination for everyone.
Conclusion
The best route for this trip is on the I-5 South, with a stop at Lakewood, Washington. From there, you can visit the Mount St. Helens, Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood, Seattle's Pike Place Market, and Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum. The route showcases the best of the Pacific Northwest, providing an experience unlike any other. So, pack your bags, and let's embark on the adventure of a lifetime!