Scenic Pacific Northwest Road Trip: San Jose to Ashland to Seattle

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Day 1: San Jose to Ashland Drive

San Jose, CA to Ashland, OR on July 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bill’s Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Bill’s Cafe, a local favorite known for its hearty omelets and fresh coffee, to fuel up for the long drive. It's open from 7:00am on Sundays.
USD15, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive from San Jose to Ashland

Embark on an approximately 5-hour drive (about 320 miles) north via I-5, enjoying scenic views as you transition from California's Bay Area to Southern Oregon’s beautiful landscapes.
USD40 (estimated fuel cost), 5h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Standing Stone Brewing Company

Stop in Ashland for a satisfying lunch featuring locally brewed beers and fresh Pacific Northwest cuisine in a casual, welcoming setting. Open daily from 11:30am.
USD25, 1h0m

2:45pm

Check-in and rest at a local hotel

Check into your accommodation to relax and freshen up after the drive. Choose from charming inns or chain hotels in the Ashland area.
USD120, 1h15m

4:00pm

Explore downtown Ashland

Stroll through Ashland’s historic downtown, known for its theaters, art galleries, and boutique shops. This walk is both refreshing and culturally enriching.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Larks Home Kitchen Cuisine

Dine at Larks, a highly rated restaurant showcasing local ingredients in a warm, rustic environment. Open until 9:00pm.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 2: Explore Ashland and Head to Seattle

Ashland, OR to Seattle, WA on July 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Morning Glory

Start your day with a delicious breakfast known for homemade pastries and seasonal dishes, opening at 7:00am.
USD18, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Lithia Park

Enjoy a morning walk in Lithia Park, a lush green space with beautiful landscaping, ponds, and walking trails. Opens early and free to the public.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Drive from Ashland to Seattle

Prepare for a longer drive of approximately 8 hours and 285 miles along I-5 north, through scenic forests and towns up to Seattle.
USD60 (estimated fuel cost), 8h0m

7:30pm

Check in at Seattle hotel

Arrive in Seattle and check into your hotel to relax after the long drive.
USD150, 0h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at The Pink Door

Enjoy Italian-American fare with a view of the waterfront at The Pink Door, open until 10:00pm on weekdays and Sundays.
USD50, 1h30m

Day 3: Seattle Sightseeing

Seattle, WA on July 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tilikum Place Café

Taste Dutch-inspired breakfast dishes in this cozy café, opens at 7:30am.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Pike Place Market

Explore one of Seattle’s iconic landmarks featuring fresh produce, arts, crafts, and lively street performances. Open daily from 9:00am to 6:00pm.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Seattle Aquarium

Discover marine life native to the Pacific Northwest in an engaging waterfront aquarium open from 9:30am to 5:00pm.
USD35, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Etta’s Seafood

Enjoy fresh, sustainably sourced seafood just steps from Pike Place Market. Open daily from 11:30am.
USD40, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Space Needle

Take in panoramic views of Seattle and beyond from the iconic Space Needle observation deck, open daily from 10:00am to 8:00pm.
USD40, 1h30m

4:30pm

Walk through Chihuly Garden and Glass

Explore stunning glass art installations next to the Space Needle. Open from 10:00am to 8:00pm.
USD35, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Walrus and the Carpenter

End your day with outstanding oysters and small plates in Ballard, open until 9:00pm on weekdays.
USD60, 2h0m
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