Scenic Pacific Northwest Road Trip from San Jose to Seattle via Ashland, Oregon State University, and Portland

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Day 1: San Jose to Ashland

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

7:30am

Breakfast at Bill’s Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Bill’s Cafe, famous for its classic American breakfast dishes and friendly atmosphere.
USD20, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Ashland, Oregon

Embark on a 5.5-hour scenic drive heading north via I-5, passing through picturesque California and southern Oregon landscapes.
USD15 (fuel estimate), 5h30m

2:00pm

Lunch at Standing Stone Brewing Company

Enjoy locally brewed craft beers and farm-to-table fare in Ashland’s relaxed setting; open 11am - 9pm.
USD25, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Lithia Park

Stroll through the beautiful Lithia Park, known for its shaded trails, ponds, and gardens. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon walk.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Visit the Oregon Shakespeare Festival

Catch an early evening play or explore the Festival's grounds. Check the schedule and book tickets in advance, performances typically around 2-4 hours, open from noon.
USD50, 3h

8:30pm

Dinner at Larks Home Kitchen Cuisine

Enjoy dinner featuring seasonal Pacific Northwest cuisine in a cozy setting, open until 9:30pm.
USD40, 1h

Day 2: Ashland to Oregon State University

Ashland, OR to Corvallis, OR on July 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Morning Glory Cafe

Start with a fresh and organic breakfast made with local ingredients; open from 7am.
USD18, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Corvallis, Oregon

Enjoy a 3.5-hour drive north through beautiful Willamette Valley farmlands, heading to Oregon State University.
USD12 (fuel estimate), 3h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Beppe & Gianni’s Trattoria

Savor authentic Italian dishes with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients in downtown Corvallis; open from 11:30am.
USD30, 1h

1:30pm

Tour Oregon State University

Explore the scenic campus including the Memorial Union and the Engineering buildings. Visitor center open 9am-5pm.
Free, 2h

3:30pm

Walk through Avery Park

Relax in Corvallis’ largest urban park, featuring walking trails, a duck pond, and playgrounds; open year-round.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Drive to Portland, Oregon

Evening 1.5-hour drive to Portland, Oregon, preparing for a full next day exploring the city.
USD8 (fuel estimate), 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Porquinho

Enjoy Brazilian-inspired modern dishes in a lively Portland restaurant, open until 9:30pm.
USD35, 1h

Day 3: Explore Portland

Portland, OR on July 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Blue Star Donuts

Try gourmet donuts with unique flavors made fresh daily; opens at 7am.
USD10, 30m

9:00am

Visit Portland Japanese Garden

Known as one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside Japan, enjoy serene landscapes and cultural exhibits; open 10am-5pm.
USD20, 1h30m

11:00am

Tour the International Rose Test Garden

Walk through stunning rose displays with views of Mount St. Helens and Mount Hood; open daylight hours.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Pine Street Market

Taste a variety of local food vendors offering everything from ramen to wood-fired pizza; open 11am - 9pm.
USD20, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Powell's City of Books

Visit the world’s largest independent bookstore with over a million books; open 10am - 11pm.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Walk along the Waterfront Park

Relax with views of the Willamette River and Mount Hood, stroll the scenic parks and bridges; open all day.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Andina Restaurant

Savor authentic Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist in a vibrant setting; open until 9pm.
USD40, 1h

Day 4: Portland to Seattle

Portland, OR to Seattle, WA on July 31, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Mother’s Bistro & Bar

Enjoy a homestyle breakfast with fresh ingredients in a warm atmosphere; open from 7am.
USD20, 1h

8:45am

Drive to Seattle, Washington

Take a 3-hour scenic drive north along I-5 with views of the Columbia River and forests.
USD15 (fuel estimate), 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Pike Place Market

Explore the famous market and enjoy fresh seafood, local eats, and unique crafts; open 9am-5pm.
USD25, 1h30m

1:45pm

Visit the Space Needle

Iconic Seattle landmark offering panoramic city and water views; open 10am-8pm.
USD40, 1h

3:00pm

Explore the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

Dive into exhibits on music, sci-fi, and pop culture in a unique architectural space; open 10am-5pm.
USD30, 1h30m

5:00pm

Walk through Chihuly Garden and Glass

Marvel at colorful glass art sculptures in indoor and outdoor gardens; open 10am-7pm.
USD32, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Pink Door

Indulge in upscale Italian cuisine in a romantic atmosphere near Pike Place Market; open until 10pm.
USD50, 1h30m
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