3-Day Pacific Northwest Adventure from Seattle: Exploring Portland and Mount St. Helens

Day 1: Portland City Exploration

Portland, Oregon on June 6, 2025

8:00am

Drive from Seattle to Portland

Start your trip with a scenic 3-hour drive south along I-5, enjoying views of Washington and Oregon's landscapes.
USD0, 3h0m

11:30am

Breakfast at Mother’s Bistro & Bar

Enjoy a hearty and comforting breakfast featuring classic American dishes with a gourmet twist, open from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm.
USD15-25, 1h0m

12:45pm

Visit Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

Explore interactive science exhibits, a planetarium, and a submarine tour. Open 9:30 am to 5:00 pm.
USD14, 2h30m

3:30pm

Walk through the Portland Japanese Garden

Experience tranquility and beautiful landscaped gardens showcasing Japanese culture. Open 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
USD19.95, 1h30m

5:30pm

Dinner at Le Pigeon

Savor inventive French-inspired cuisine in an intimate setting, open 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm. Reservations recommended.
USD40-70, 2h0m
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Day 2: Mount St. Helens Adventure

Mount St. Helens, Washington on June 7, 2025

7:00am

Drive from Portland to Mount St. Helens Visitor Center

Travel approximately 2 hours north to the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument’s main visitor center to start exploring.
USD0, 2h0m

9:30am

Explore Mount St. Helens Visitor Center

Learn about the volcanic eruption history and geology at this excellent facility open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
USD0, 1h0m

10:45am

Hike the Hummocks Trail

Take a 3-mile loop trail showcasing the volcanic landscape and regrowth after the 1980 eruption; moderate difficulty.
USD0, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Coldwater Lake Picnic Area

Enjoy a picnic lunch with a view of Coldwater Lake, a serene spot perfect for resting amid nature.
USD15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Drive to Johnston Ridge Observatory

Short drive to the observatory for close-up views of the crater and informational exhibits, open 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
USD0, 30m

2:30pm

Visit Johnston Ridge Observatory

Explore exhibits about the eruption and enjoy panoramic views of the volcano and lava dome.
USD0, 1h30m

5:00pm

Drive to nearby accommodations

Check into local lodging near Mount St. Helens for an overnight stay.
Varies, Variable

6:30pm

Dinner at a local dining spot

Choose a casual dining restaurant nearby or enjoy regional specialties at your lodging, open till 9:00 pm typically.
USD20-40, 1h30m
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Day 3: Return via Scenic Stops

Mount St. Helens to Seattle, Washington on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at lodging or nearby café

Start your day with a fresh breakfast at your accommodation or a local coffee shop.
USD10-20, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive towards Seattle with a stop at Ape Cave

Visit Ape Cave, a lava tube cave on the way back; explore the fascinating underground for about 1.5 hours. Open from 9:00 am.
USD0, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch in Castle Rock

Stop in Castle Rock for a relaxed lunch at a local diner such as Depot Restaurant.
USD15-25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Continue drive to Seattle

Finish your drive back to Seattle, arriving in the late afternoon.
USD0, 1h30m

3:30pm

Optional visit to Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

If time allows, visit MoPOP in Seattle to explore music, sci-fi, and pop culture exhibits. Open until 5:00 pm on Sundays.
USD30, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Pink Door

Conclude your trip with an Italian dinner at The Pink Door in Pike Place Market, known for its ambiance and delicious meals. Open till 10:00 pm Sundays.
USD35-60, 1h30m
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