Jeffery Hayes (CC BY-SA 3.0)Ascend the Space Needle for Panoramic Views · Marvel at Chihuly Garden and Glass · Narada Falls Viewpoint · Paradise & Skyline Trail Hiking · Longmire Historic District & Trail to Carter Falls · Explore Powell's City of Books
7-day United States trip — Seattle to Mount Rainier National Park to Mount Rainier to Portland. Day-by-day route, attractions and food.
This journey through Seattle, Portland and Mount Rainier offers a distinct blend of Pacific Northwest urban innovation and raw alpine wilderness. Unlike a single-city focus on, say, Seattle alone, this route layers two distinct city cultures with a deep dive into one of North America's most volcanoes. You gain Portland's quirky independent spirit and the high-altitude trails of Rainier, which a purely coastal or urban trip misses. This blend is built for travelers seeking dynamic city exploration, innovative culinary experiences and natural immersion, not for extended beach relaxation or solely historical pursuits.
Seattle
Day 1 · Iconic Viewpoints & City Landmarks
Day 1 · Pike Place Market & Waterfront Flavors
Day 1 · Art, Music & Museum Experiences
Day 2 · Puget Sound & Island Cruises
Day 2 · A Scenic Hike & Nature Walk
Mount Rainier National Park
Day 3 · Iconic Mount Rainier Hiking & Viewpoints
Day 3 · Volcanic Landscapes & Geological Wonders
Mount Rainier
Day 4 · Wildlife Encounters & Nature Parks
Portland
Day 5 · Portland's Eclectic Food & Drink Scene
Day 5 · World-Renowned Bookstores & Independent Shopping
Day 6 · Iconic Waterfalls of the Columbia River Gorge
Day 7 · Serene Urban Gardens & Nature Escapes
Pick travel dates to see the weather for your month.
Seattle and Portland remain cool and damp for much of the year, while Mount Rainier stays snowbound well into spring. Visit during the height of summer to ensure clear skies for hiking and city walks, but always keep a waterproof layer handy for sudden changes in the mountains.
Seattle
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Sunrise – sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 9 °C (48 °F) | 3 °C (37 °F) (cold) | 16 | 7:52 AM – 4:45 PM |
| Feb | 9 °C (48 °F) | 3 °C (37 °F) (cold) | 15 | 7:14 AM – 5:32 PM |
| Mar | 12 °C (53 °F) | 4 °C (39 °F) (cold) | 16 | 7:22 AM – 7:14 PM |
| Apr | 15 °C (59 °F) | 6 °C (43 °F) (cold) | 13 | 6:20 AM – 7:59 PM |
| May | 19 °C (66 °F) | 10 °C (49 °F) | 10 | 5:31 AM – 8:40 PM |
| Jun | 22 °C (72 °F) | 12 °C (54 °F) | 8 | 5:11 AM – 9:08 PM |
| Jul | 25 °C (77 °F) | 14 °C (57 °F) | 3 | 5:27 AM – 9:02 PM |
| Aug | 25 °C (77 °F) | 14 °C (58 °F) | 4 | 6:05 AM – 8:20 PM |
| Sep | 21 °C (70 °F) | 12 °C (53 °F) | 9 | 6:47 AM – 7:20 PM |
| Oct | 16 °C (60 °F) | 8 °C (46 °F) (cold) | 14 | 7:28 AM – 6:20 PM |
| Nov | 11 °C (52 °F) | 5 °C (40 °F) (cold) | 16 | 7:15 AM – 4:32 PM |
| Dec | 8 °C (46 °F) (cold) | 2 °C (36 °F) (cold) | 17 | 7:51 AM – 4:17 PM |
Portland
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Sunrise – sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 9 °C (47 °F) | 2 °C (36 °F) (cold) | 15 | 7:47 AM – 4:53 PM |
| Feb | 10 °C (50 °F) | 2 °C (36 °F) (cold) | 15 | 7:12 AM – 5:37 PM |
| Mar | 14 °C (57 °F) | 4 °C (39 °F) (cold) | 15 | 7:23 AM – 7:16 PM |
| Apr | 17 °C (63 °F) | 6 °C (42 °F) (cold) | 14 | 6:25 AM – 7:57 PM |
| May | 21 °C (70 °F) | 9 °C (49 °F) | 9 | 5:40 AM – 8:34 PM |
| Jun | 25 °C (76 °F) | 12 °C (53 °F) | 7 | 5:21 AM – 9:01 PM |
| Jul | 28 °C (82 °F) | 14 °C (57 °F) | 1 | 5:36 AM – 8:55 PM |
| Aug | 29 °C (84 °F) | 13 °C (56 °F) | 2 | 6:11 AM – 8:17 PM |
| Sep | 24 °C (76 °F) | 11 °C (52 °F) | 6 | 6:49 AM – 7:21 PM |
| Oct | 18 °C (65 °F) | 7 °C (45 °F) (cold) | 11 | 7:27 AM – 6:24 PM |
| Nov | 12 °C (53 °F) | 4 °C (39 °F) (cold) | 15 | 7:10 AM – 4:39 PM |
| Dec | 8 °C (46 °F) (cold) | 2 °C (35 °F) (cold) | 17 | 7:44 AM – 4:27 PM |
Mount Rainier
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Sunrise – sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3 °C (37 °F) (cold) | −3 °C (26 °F) (cold) | 18 | 7:48 AM – 4:45 PM |
| Feb | 3 °C (37 °F) (cold) | −4 °C (24 °F) (cold) | 18 | 7:11 AM – 5:31 PM |
| Mar | 5 °C (41 °F) (cold) | −3 °C (27 °F) (cold) | 17 | 7:19 AM – 7:12 PM |
| Apr | 8 °C (47 °F) (cold) | −1 °C (30 °F) (cold) | 16 | 6:19 AM – 7:55 PM |
| May | 13 °C (56 °F) | 3 °C (38 °F) (cold) | 14 | 5:32 AM – 8:35 PM |
| Jun | 16 °C (61 °F) | 6 °C (42 °F) (cold) | 11 | 5:12 AM – 9:03 PM |
| Jul | 20 °C (67 °F) | 8 °C (46 °F) (cold) | 4 | 5:28 AM – 8:57 PM |
| Aug | 21 °C (70 °F) | 9 °C (47 °F) | 5 | 6:05 AM – 8:16 PM |
| Sep | 16 °C (61 °F) | 6 °C (43 °F) (cold) | 9 | 6:45 AM – 7:18 PM |
| Oct | 12 °C (53 °F) | 2 °C (36 °F) (cold) | 14 | 7:25 AM – 6:19 PM |
| Nov | 6 °C (42 °F) (cold) | −2 °C (29 °F) (cold) | 18 | 7:10 AM – 4:32 PM |
| Dec | 2 °C (35 °F) (cold) | −5 °C (24 °F) (cold) | 19 | 7:45 AM – 4:18 PM |
United States Geological Survey (USGS) (Public domain)Arrive at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Take the Link Light Rail (approx. 40-50 minutes, ~$3.25) to downtown Seattle (e.g., Westlake Station). Alternatively, a taxi or rideshare will take 25-45 minutes (approx. $40-60). Proceed to your hotel for check-in.
Photo by Kevin Lanceplaine on UnsplashSavor a creamy, hearty bowl of Seattle's classic clam chowder at a market vendor overlooking Elliott Bay.
Photo by Muhammad Fawdy on PexelsEnjoy a casual dinner of Seattle's distinct teriyaki, known for its sweeter, thicker sauce, served with rice and a simple salad.
Enjoy a casual lunch featuring fresh Pacific Northwest ingredients, perhaps a gourmet sandwich or a fresh salad, in the vibrant Seattle Center area.
Photo by David Geib on PexelsExperience a true Seattle classic with a visit to Dick's Drive-In for their famous Dick's Deluxe Burger. A beloved local fast-food tradition, perfect for a casual and authentic evening meal.
Staying at Downtown Seattle since Day 1
Enjoy a classic American breakfast to fuel up before checking out of your hotel and heading south.
Fawcett5 at English Wikipedia (Public domain)Immerse yourself in aviation history and explore iconic aircraft, space artifacts, and interactive exhibits at one of the world's largest air and space museums.
Google MapsEmbark on a scenic drive from Seattle, heading south towards the majestic Mount Rainier National Park. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you leave the city behind.
Grab a fulfilling lunch in Ashford, a gateway town to Mount Rainier, perfect for re-energizing before your park exploration.
Savor a delicious dinner featuring grilled wild Pacific salmon, a regional specialty, in one of the local eateries in Ashford after a day of exploring Mount Rainier.
Enjoy a hearty elk burger or other American diner fare at a local eatery in Eatonville after your wildlife adventure.
Savor regional American dishes focusing on local ingredients, perhaps with a side of Washington's famous apples, and conclude with a delightful huckleberry pie for dessert.
Kiddo27 (CC BY-SA 4.0)Enjoy a hearty American breakfast at a local cafe before departing from the Mount Rainier area.
Begin the scenic drive from the Mount Rainier region towards Portland, Oregon, taking approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Arrive in Portland and check into your hotel in the vibrant Downtown area, allowing time to settle in and freshen up.
Ernesto Andrade from San Francisco, California, USA (CC BY 2.0)Experience Portland's renowned food cart scene with a delicious and inventive gourmet bowl or tacos from one of the many downtown carts.
Fcb981 (CC BY-SA 3.0)Join a guided walking tour to discover the unique architecture, public art, and hidden gems of Downtown Portland's vibrant streets.
Savor creative and satisfying plant-based dishes, a specialty of Portland's innovative culinary scene, in the eclectic Hawthorne District.
Enjoy a classic American breakfast at a local cafe in the heart of downtown, fueling up for a day of exploration.
Enjoy a comforting lunch featuring regional American cuisine at a local eatery in the Columbia River Gorge area, perfect after morning waterfall visits.
Savor the flavors of the Pacific Northwest with a farm-to-table dinner in the trendy Pearl District, known for its creative culinary scene and vibrant atmosphere.
Staying at Downtown Portland since Day 5
Enjoy a classic American breakfast at a local cafe in Downtown Portland before starting your day.
Savor a locally-sourced meal featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients typical of the Pacific Northwest region at a restaurant conveniently located near Washington Park.
Browse for unique local crafts, botanical-themed gifts, and Portland memorabilia at the shops located within Washington Park or nearby specialty boutiques, perfect for last-minute keepsakes.
Return to your hotel in Downtown Portland to check out and collect your luggage, preparing for your departure.
Chris Light (CC BY-SA 4.0)Transfer to Portland International Airport (PDX) for your flight back, allowing ample time for check-in and security processes.
Google MapsStaying at Downtown Portland since Day 5
Same destination, your dates, group, and pace. Generated free in about 2 minutes.
Customize this tripFreeFood, shopping & festivals
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Seattle
Day 2 · dinner
Washington State
Portland
Oregon
Mount Rainier
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Portland
Seattle
Ashford
Enjoy the distinct tart-sweet flavor of wild huckleberries, a native Pacific Northwest berry, in gourmet preserves and treats.
Mount Rainier
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February
June
Jul 4
Nov 26 – 29
Dec 25
Costs
Estimated total · For 2 travelers · 1 room · 7 days
USD 4,418Flights from your city not included.
| City | Simple | Comfortable | Upscale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle | USD 120 | USD 180 | USD 240 |
| Mount Rainier National Park | USD 120 | USD 180 | USD 240 |
| Mount Rainier | USD 120 | USD 180 | USD 240 |
| Portland | USD 120 | USD 180 | USD 240 |
Not included: visas, travel insurance, SIM cards, tips, shopping.
Moderate overall, with hotels around $100-150/night for decent options, but dining out can quickly add up to $20-35 per person for a casual sit-down meal. Tap water is safe everywhere, but expect minimal cell signal outside main towns when approaching Mount Rainier.
Utilize Seattle's Link Light Rail from Sea-Tac Airport to downtown ($3.25/person) to save on initial car rental days if you're only exploring the city center. Parking in downtown Seattle or Portland can easily run $20-30 per day.
To stretch your $42/day food budget for two, prioritize grocery store meals and picnics, especially for your Mount Rainier visit. Safeway or Fred Meyer are good options for essentials, costing around $5-10 per person per meal.
Purchase an America the Beautiful Pass ($80) if you plan on visiting Mount Rainier and potentially other National Parks within 12 months. This is much cheaper than paying the $30 per vehicle fee for a single park entry.
Given spotty mobile connectivity near Mount Rainier and other remote areas, download offline maps (Google Maps) to avoid potential $5-10/day roaming charges or getting lost, as even Verizon struggles in some zones.
Before you go
Hotel in Seattle
Nights 1–2 · Downtown Seattle · about USD 360 · Comfortable hotel range
Flight from Seattle to Mount Rainier National Park
Day 3 · about USD 21
Hotel in Mount Rainier National Park
Night 3 · Ashford · about USD 180 · Comfortable hotel range
Flight from Mount Rainier National Park to Mount Rainier
Day 4 · about USD 0
Hotel in Mount Rainier
Night 4 · Ashford · about USD 180 · Comfortable hotel range
Flight from Mount Rainier to Portland
Day 5 · about USD 77
Hotel in Portland
Nights 5–6 · Downtown Portland · about USD 360 · Comfortable hotel range
Mount Rainier National Park Timed Entry Reservation
Day 3 · Book 3 weeks ahead · During peak season (late May through September), timed entry vehicle reservations may be required for certain areas like Paradise. Check NPS website for current requirements.
Space Needle Timed Entry
Day 1 · Book 2 weeks ahead · Secure your desired time slot, especially for sunset views.
Chihuly Garden and Glass Timed Entry
Day 1 · Book 2 weeks ahead · Timed entry is required and popular slots fill up.
Northwest Trek Wildlife Park Timed Entry
Day 4 · Book 2 weeks ahead · Timed entry reservations are often required to manage visitor flow and ensure availability.
Multnomah Falls Timed Access Permit
Day 6 · Book 2 weeks ahead · A timed access permit for the Historic Columbia River Highway and Multnomah Falls is often required during peak season (typically May-September). Check Recreation.gov for current details.
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) Timed Entry
Day 2 · Book 7 days ahead · Timed entry is recommended to guarantee your visit and preferred time.
At Pike Place Market on day 1, avoid the main entrance near the gum wall during mid-day; the lower levels are quieter and offer great views of the harbor.
When visiting Mount Rainier on day 3, start your drive early to beat the parking congestion at the Paradise visitor center, as lots often fill by mid-morning.
For the Willamette River kayaking on day 6, use the public docks near the city center; remember that motorized traffic has the right of way, so stay close to the shore.
In Seattle, use the light rail from the airport to downtown; it is significantly faster than ride-hailing during the morning and evening rush hours.
Be aware of local traffic patterns in downtown Portland; the transit mall on 5th and 6th Avenues is restricted to public transit vehicles only.
When exploring Pioneer Square in Seattle on day 2, keep bags secure and avoid leaving any valuables visible in your rental vehicle at all times.
On day 7 in Portland, use the light rail to reach the Washington Park area to avoid the limited and expensive parking at the International Rose Test Garden.
While in the Mount Rainier area, cell service is non-existent in the park; rely on your downloaded offline maps and confirm your route before leaving the main highway.
Buy travel insurance and save the policy offline
Keep a backup card and emergency cash apart from your wallet
Get USD cash / a no-forex-fee card
Check visa requirements for United States
Mount Rainier National Park timed entry permit
Copies of passport and bookings (paper + phone)
Tell your bank your travel dates and check foreign transaction fees
Leave your itinerary, emergency contacts and a passport copy with someone at home
Register with your embassy's traveler program (STEP for US citizens)
Passport (valid 6+ months past your return)
Wallet with ID and payment cards
Transit card: ORCA · Seattle
Pen for arrival forms
National Park annual pass
The trip starts in Seattle, allowing for a smooth arrival into a major hub before moving through the region. Two full days here cover both landmarks and modern culture. Mount Rainier follows for two immersive days, placing the intense alpine exploration mid-week.
This breaks up the city experiences and allows for deep nature time. The itinerary then transitions to Portland, which receives three nights, allowing for downtown exploration, a dedicated day for the Columbia River Gorge and a relaxed final day before departure. This progression moves from larger city to intense nature, then to a more walkable, relaxed city to conclude.
This itinerary prioritizes the core urban experiences of Seattle and Portland, alongside a comprehensive two-day exploration of Mount Rainier's alpine trails and wildlife. What you will not find here are the deeper dives into specific neighborhoods, like Seattle's Fremont district with its quirky troll sculpture and Sunday market. There is no time for the Olympic National Park, with its rugged coastlines and temperate rainforests.
You also skip the San Juan Islands' ferry adventures and whale watching. This shape is the right cut if you came for dynamic city life and mountain landscapes; it is the wrong one if your trip is truly about coastal wilderness or island hopping. To extend this trip, add two days at the Oregon Coast.
Drive west from Portland to explore Cannon Beach, known for Haystack Rock and tide pooling. You can walk along miles of sandy beaches, watch surfers, and enjoy fresh seafood straight from the ocean.
| Visa & entry | US, UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and many other nationalities are eligible for visa-free travel under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for stays up to 90 days with an approved ESTA. Apply for your ESTA online at least 72 hours before travel. Indian citizens require a B-1/B-2 visa, applied for at a US embassy or consulate. All travelers need a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. Other nationalities should check the U.S. Department of State's official travel website for specific requirements. |
|---|---|
| Official advice | US State Department · UK Foreign Office |
| Emergency | Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911911 for all emergencies. Text-to-911 available in many areas. |
Major cities like Chicago or Los Angeles have specific pockets of high crime that shift block by block; stick to busy, well-lit commercial areas after dark. If you encounter a road emergency, call 911 to reach police, fire, or ambulance services. In national parks, stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost or encountering wildlife in rugged terrain.
| Tipping: restaurants | 18–20% (before tax) |
|---|---|
| Tipping: taxis | 15–20% |
| Tipping: hotels | $2–5 per bag; $2–5/night housekeeping |
| Cards | Universally accepted |
| Contactless | Common but not universal |
| Cash | Cash accepted but cards preferred everywhere |
| Payment tip | Credit cards accepted everywhere. Apple Pay/Google Pay widely available. |
| Plugs | Type A, B120V · 60Hz |
|---|
| SIM | Price | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Airalo eSIM | $5 to $26 for 7 to 30 days | Airalo app |
| T-Mobile physical SIM | $30 to $50 for 30 days | Any T-Mobile retail store |
Roaming charges are very high. Buy a local eSIM or prepaid SIM immediately.
Tipping is standard and expected; add 18% to 22% for table service at restaurants, and 15% to 20% for ride-shares or taxis. In formal or high-end restaurants, speak quietly to maintain the surrounding atmosphere. Many public places strictly enforce non-smoking laws, including designated distances from building entrances.
About USD 4,418 for 2 travelers · 1 room · 7 days: hotels, food, activities, local transport and travel between places. Flights from your city not included.
Travelers from visa-waiver countries must apply for ESTA authorization before departure. Other visitors need a valid B-1 or B-2 tourist visa from a United States embassy. Always check current entry requirements for your specific citizenship status on the official Department of State website.
The Amtrak Cascades train is the most comfortable way to travel between the two cities. The trip takes about 3.5 hours and offers scenic views along the coast. Driving via Interstate 5 takes about 3 hours, but traffic near Tacoma and Portland can add significant delays during rush hour.
Downtown Seattle is generally safe, but property crime is a common concern. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially around 3rd Avenue and Pine Street after dark. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid isolated spots in Pioneer Square late at night.
You need a rental car to access Mount Rainier, as public transit does not reach the park. The drive takes about 2.5 hours depending on your destination entrance. Book your park entry reservation online in advance during the peak summer season.
Tipping between 18% and 22% is the standard expectation for full-service dining in the Pacific Northwest. For counter service or coffee shops, a tip of $1 to $2 is common but optional. Service charges are sometimes added to large groups, so check your bill before adding more.
Pack layers regardless of the season because weather changes rapidly. Bring a high-quality waterproof rain jacket with a hood, as umbrellas are rarely used by locals. Sturdy, waterproof walking shoes are essential for both city sightseeing and hiking trails near Mount Rainier.
Both cities have reliable light rail and bus systems that cover most tourist areas. You can pay for rides using transit apps or reloadable cards like ORCA in Seattle or Hop Fastpass in Portland. Use these for city travel to avoid the high cost and hassle of downtown parking.
July through September offers the most consistent sunshine and pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities. If you plan to visit Mount Rainier, the high-elevation trails are usually snow-free and accessible from mid-July through early October. Expect consistent rain and gray skies from November through May.
Download this Seattle, Portland, and Mount Rainier, United States itinerary — day-by-day plan, maps, budget, and more.
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