Summer is the time to travel and explore the expansive United States. The vast size of the country can challenge travelers to narrow their focus. The West Coast is full of exciting cities and natural environments. There is always more to see, from tall mountains to bright urban lights. Consider the following West Coast destinations for your next journey.
- Seattle, Washington
This busy Washington State city is full of alternative, outdoorsy culture. Visit Pike Place Market, check out Dale Chihuly’s glass art, scale the iconic Space Needle, or embark on one of the ocean cruises from Seattle during your time in the Pacific Northwest. Satisfy your caffeine cravings in this home of the original Starbucks. Watch the ferry boats, or hop aboard and find a hiking trail across the water. Do all this and more with no worries of tagging bags or luggage around. Leave them safely with luggage storage Seattle services and enjoy your time hassle-free.
- Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Leave the city life behind and visit Mount Rainier National Park, about two hours away from Seattle. Drive to this park and take in its mountain meadows, flowing river, and majestic forest. This park is home to an active volcano and hiking trails of various levels of difficulty. Depending on your preference, you may find peace or excitement in nature.
- Portland, Oregon
The Portland of the West has an amazing culinary scene. Look forward to food truck rodeos, seriously good vegan options, fresh outdoor garden seating, and biking from spot to spot. Of course, you must stop by Voodoo for magical doughnuts. Portland is a distinctly cool, hipster city with indie shops like Powell’s bookstore.
- Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
Less than an hour outside of Portland, Columbia River Gorge is full of Oregon’s natural beauty. Free hikes through this nature preserve are marked by waterfalls. Hike or drive along the scenic highway to Multnomah Falls and find the trail to Benson Bridge.
- San Francisco, California
The magnetic buzz of San Francisco will draw you in across the Golden Gate Bridge. Visit the seals at Fisherman’s Wharf or explore Alcatraz. Try local eateries in this early home of the farm-to-table movement. Take a fun photo in the park across from the “Full House” location, too.
- Los Angeles, California
Hollywood is calling! Go on a bus tour to see the neighborhoods of the stars or sign up to attend a live television show taping. Taste creative culinary offerings, especially Korean food. Spend hours at the J. Paul Getty Center or lounge at Venice Beach.
- Redwood National Park, California
A trip to Redwood National Park in California can put things in perspective by making you feel small, quite literally. Some of the huge trees in this forest are 2000 years old. Walk through the bottom of the Chandelier Tree, stop at the Big Tree, and linger in Lady Bird Johnson Grove. Link up with a guide for hikes or kayaking excursions.
- Yosemite National Park, California
Find wildlife and breathtaking views in Yosemite National Park. This park has many distinct destinations within its borders; Half Dome, El Capitan, Sentinel Dome, Taft Point, Glacier Point, Yosemite Valley, Mariposa Grove, and a number of significant waterfalls. This is an excellent park for camping and stargazing.
- Big Sur, California
Drive along the Pacific Ocean coast to see the impressive sights of Big Sur. Let yourself enjoy the seemingly endless horizon that has been a natural character in countless films. Stop into Monterrey for a bite to eat along your route.
- Napa Valley, California
Slow down in California wine country. Take a vineyard tour or stop for a fancy wine tasting and locally-sourced dinner. Stay at a luxury resort or quaint bed and breakfast with gorgeous sunrise views over the fields. This is a perennial favorite region for group trips and picturesque destination weddings.
The West Coast is full of unmatched natural beauty and great foods from local farmers. Set sail from the stunning shores or take a multi-day road trip to appreciate all that the region has to offer. Visitors to the majestic part of the United States will be impressed!
