One-Day Scenic Road Trip in the Pacific Northwest

Day 1: Nature and Adventure

Seattle, WA

7:00AM

Breakfast at Tilikum Place Cafe

Start the day with a delicious Dutch baby pancake at Tilikum Place Cafe, known for its cozy ambiance and fantastic brunch options.
Walk to the cafe from your accommodation in downtown Seattle.
USD 15, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Snoqualmie Falls

Embark on a scenic drive to Snoqualmie Falls, where you'll witness the majestic 268-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
Take I-90 East for a quick 30-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Snoqualmie Falls

Spend some time walking along the viewing platforms and trails to fully appreciate the beauty of this iconic site.
Follow the designated paths and signage around the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Drive to Mount Rainier National Park

Continue your adventure with a picturesque drive towards Mount Rainier, known for its stunning mountain views and alpine scenery.
Take Highway 410 South.
USD 30 (park entry fee), 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Paradise Inn

Enjoy lunch at the historic Paradise Inn with amazing views of the mountain, serving classic American fare.
Located conveniently within the park.
USD 20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Paradise and Skyline Trail

After lunch, hike the Skyline Trail loop for breathtaking panoramic views of the mountain and wildflower-filled meadows.
Follow signs from the inn to the trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Drive to Tacoma

Head to Tacoma and enjoy the scenic route as you descend from the mountain to the city.
Take WA-7 South to I-5 North.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore Point Defiance Park

Wander through Point Defiance Park, where you’ll find lovely gardens and coastal views, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Within Point Defiance Park, ample parking is available.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Duke's Seafood

Culminate your day with dinner at Duke's Seafood, renowned for its sustainable seafood and stunning views of the Puget Sound.
Just a short drive from Point Defiance Park.
USD 35, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Seattle

Drive back to Seattle, reflecting on a day filled with adventure and breathtaking nature.
Take I-5 North directly back to Seattle.
Free, 40 minutes
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