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15 Aug 2025
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Portland to Vancouver, BC Road Trip Itinerary

Portland to Vancouver, BC Road Trip Itinerary Overview

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Portland, Oregon to Vancouver, BC, exploring some of the Pacific Northwest's most captivating destinations. Your adventure begins in the lively city of Portland, renowned for its eclectic culture, delicious cuisine, and scenic parks. Heading north, make a fascinating stop at the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center, where you can learn about the iconic volcano’s eruption and enjoy breathtaking nature trails. Continue to Olympia, the charming capital of Washington State, famous for its waterfront parks and historic sites.

Next, discover Tacoma's vibrant arts scene and museum district before reaching Seattle, a dynamic metropolis known for its skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and world-class attractions like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle. In Everett, aviation enthusiasts will relish a visit to the Boeing Tour and enjoy the lively waterfront. Bellingham enchants with its small-town vibe, beautiful bay views, and access to outdoor adventures. Pause at Peace Arch State Park, a symbolic and beautiful spot marking the international border, before your journey culminates in Vancouver, BC—a city celebrated for its natural beauty, cosmopolitan flair, and endless recreational opportunities.


Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Portland, OR

    Portland is known for its vibrant arts scene, unique neighborhoods, excellent food trucks, coffee culture, and beautiful parks such as Washington Park and the International Rose Test Garden.
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Mount St. Helens Visitor Center

    The visitor center offers educational exhibits and stunning views of the famous volcano, providing insight into the 1980 eruption and the region’s recovery, plus hiking opportunities nearby.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Olympia, WA

    Olympia, Washington’s capital, features charming waterfront parks, the historic State Capitol building, and a lively farmers market, making it a great spot for history, nature, and local food.
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  • Tacoma offers a thriving arts and culture scene with attractions such as the Museum of Glass, Washington State History Museum, and scenic waterfront parks along Commencement Bay.
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    Seattle, WA

    Seattle is famous for its iconic Space Needle, vibrant Pike Place Market, diverse neighborhoods, and stunning waterfront, offering countless cultural, culinary, and outdoor activities.
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    Everett, WA

    Everett is home to the Future of Flight Aviation Center and Boeing Tour, a lively marina, and waterfront attractions, making it a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
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    Bellingham, WA

    Bellingham offers a charming downtown, scenic views over Bellingham Bay, access to outdoor adventures on Chuckanut Drive and Mount Baker, and a lively arts and local food scene.
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    Peace Arch State Park

    Peace Arch State Park, located at the US-Canada border, features beautiful gardens, the historic Peace Arch monument, and symbolizes international friendship, making it a unique and picturesque stop.
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    Vancouver, BC

    Vancouver, BC is known for its stunning natural beauty, multicultural urban life, iconic attractions like Stanley Park and Granville Island, and world-class dining and entertainment options.
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Restaurants

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    The Vault

    4.5

    The Vault

    Located in a converted 1920s bank in Tacoma, this restaurant offers unique ambiance with bank vault dining rooms and creative American cuisine.
    4.5
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    The Hobbit Restaurant

    The Hobbit Restaurant

    A whimsical, Tolkien-themed eatery in Portland with fantastical décor and creative seasonal fare.
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    Beth's Cafe

    4.2
    $$$$

    Beth's Cafe

    A legendary Seattle diner famous for its massive 12-egg omelets and quirky wall art, open since the 1950s.
    4.2
    $$$$
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    Skylark's Hidden Cafe

    4.2
    $$$$

    Skylark's Hidden Cafe

    A charming, offbeat cafe in Bellingham known for its eclectic menu, cozy atmosphere, and whimsical garden seating.
    4.2
    $$$$
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    The Eatery at the Storm Crow

    4.5
    $$$$

    The Eatery at the Storm Crow

    A nerd-themed restaurant in Vancouver, BC, filled with sci-fi and fantasy memorabilia and a creative menu featuring board games at the table.
    4.5
    $$$$
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Hotels

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    Hotel deLuxe

    8.9

    Hotel deLuxe

    A glamorous Portland hotel with classic Hollywood-inspired decor and vintage charm, offering a unique cinematic experience.
    8.9
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    McMenamins Olympic Club

    4.4
    $$$$

    McMenamins Olympic Club

    A quirky hotel in Centralia with rooms themed after famous outlaws, an onsite theater, and historic vibes.
    4.4
    $$$$
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    Hotel Murano

    8.2

    Hotel Murano

    Located in Tacoma, this art-centric hotel features stunning glass artwork throughout, celebrating the city’s glassblowing legacy.
    8.2
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    The Arctic Club Seattle

    7.9

    The Arctic Club Seattle

    Known for its historic 20th-century architecture and iconic walrus-themed lounge, this boutique hotel offers a unique vintage atmosphere.
    7.9
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    The Sylvia Hotel

    3.6
    $$$$

    The Sylvia Hotel

    Vancouver’s heritage hotel with ivy-covered walls, ocean views, and an old-world charm that’s been a local favorite since 1912.
    3.6
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Local Events & Happenings

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    Hunks - 21+

    Hunks - 21+

    The event will take place at Tracyton Movie House in Bremerton.
    Map IconTracyton Movie House in Bremerton (2.89 mi)
    Calendar Icon31 Aug 2025
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    Good Times Roll - Car Tribute

    Good Times Roll - Car Tribute

    Enjoy an evening with amazing entertainment Fridays and Saturdays in the Beach Rock Music and Sports starting at 8:30pm. General Admission tickets may be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or in the Casino Gift Shop for just $15. Gather the gang an...
    Map IconSuquamish Clearwater Beach Rock Music & Sports Lounge in Suquamish (6.4 mi)
    Calendar Icon31 Aug 2025
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    Hella Good - Gwen Stefani & No Doubt Tribute

    Hella Good - Gwen Stefani & No Doubt Tribute

    Enjoy an evening with amazing entertainment Fridays and Saturdays in the Beach Rock Music and Sports starting at 8:30pm. General Admission tickets may be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or in the Casino Gift Shop for just $15. Gather the gang an...
    Map IconSuquamish Clearwater Beach Rock Music & Sports Lounge in Suquamish (6.4 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 Sep 2025
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    Coda - Led Zeppelin Tribute

    Coda - Led Zeppelin Tribute

    Enjoy an evening with amazing entertainment Fridays and Saturdays in the Beach Rock Music and Sports starting at 8:30pm. General Admission tickets may be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or in the Casino Gift Shop for just $15. Gather the gang an...
    Map IconSuquamish Clearwater Beach Rock Music & Sports Lounge in Suquamish (6.4 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Sep 2025
    Picture for Coda - Led Zeppelin Tribute
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    Non Jovi - Bon Jovi Tribute

    Non Jovi - Bon Jovi Tribute

    Enjoy an evening with amazing entertainment Fridays and Saturdays in the Beach Rock Music and Sports starting at 8:30pm. General Admission tickets may be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or in the Casino Gift Shop for just $15. Gather the gang an...
    Map IconSuquamish Clearwater Beach Rock Music & Sports Lounge in Suquamish (6.4 mi)
    Calendar Icon13 Sep 2025
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    Infinity Project - Journey Tribute

    Infinity Project - Journey Tribute

    Enjoy an evening with amazing entertainment Fridays and Saturdays in the Beach Rock Music and Sports starting at 8:30pm. General Admission tickets may be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or in the Casino Gift Shop for just $15. Gather the gang an...
    Map IconSuquamish Clearwater Beach Rock Music & Sports Lounge in Suquamish (6.4 mi)
    Calendar Icon14 Sep 2025
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    RAIL - MTV Basement Tapes Winner

    RAIL - MTV Basement Tapes Winner

    Enjoy an evening with amazing entertainment Fridays and Saturdays in the Beach Rock Music and Sports starting at 8:30pm. General Admission tickets may be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or in the Casino Gift Shop for just $15. Gather the gang an...
    Map IconSuquamish Clearwater Beach Rock Music & Sports Lounge in Suquamish (6.4 mi)
    Calendar Icon20 Sep 2025
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    Whether you enjoy traveling by motorcycle, car, or recreational vehicle this is your destination for everything related to road trips! ... The subreddit for Oregon. ... How th...

    Good stops from Portland, OR to Vancouver, BC for a honeymoon road trip?

    Whether you enjoy traveling by motorcycle, car, or recreational vehicle this is your destination for everything related to road trips! ... The subreddit for Oregon. ... How th...

    /r/roadtrip
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    We are traveling to Portland for the weekend. Looking for some suggestions on the road to take and places to visit while in Portland.

    Vancouver BC to Portland Roadtrip Suggestions

    We are traveling to Portland for the weekend. Looking for some suggestions on the road to take and places to visit while in Portland.

    /r/NiceVancouver
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    Id love suggestions for the trip above! Any greats sights/food/hikes/stops? Thanks!

    Portland - Seattle - Vancouver... Tips?

    Id love suggestions for the trip above! Any greats sights/food/hikes/stops? Thanks!

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    We'll be driving up from Portland, OR and staying on Bowen Island for about a week in March of 2017. We'll have two young boys with us (2 & 4) and

    Family road trip from Portland, OR to Vancouver, BC, need off the beaten path ideas of things we shouldn't miss

    We'll be driving up from Portland, OR and staying on Bowen Island for about a week in March of 2017. We'll have two young boys with us (2 & 4) and

    /r/travel

Music for Your Journey

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    Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster

    Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster

    A classic road trip anthem perfect for the open road and a sense of adventure.
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    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Upbeat and joyful, it adds a carefree vibe as you explore new places.
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    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    A warm, folksy tune about finding comfort and joy in the journey.
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    Deeper - Lake Song

    Deeper - Lake Song

    Inspired by the Pacific Northwest, this song provides a serene, reflective atmosphere.
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    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    A quintessential road trip song that keeps spirits high on long drives.
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    Talking Heads - Road to Nowhere

    Talking Heads - Road to Nowhere

    A fun and contemplative track which complements the feeling of exploring the unknown.
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    The Head And The Heart - Rivers and Roads

    The Head And The Heart - Rivers and Roads

    An emotional song about journeys and transitions, fitting for a cross-border trip.
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    Falling In Reverse - Raised By Wolves

    Falling In Reverse - Raised By Wolves

    Energizing and upbeat indie rock, perfect for entering the forests and wilds of the PNW.
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    Jeff Buckley - Vancouver

    Jeff Buckley - Vancouver

    A mellow, folk-inspired track that pays homage to your trip’s destination.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    A timeless road trip tune celebrating the excitement of travel.
    Listen on Spotify
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