Getting out of town for the week, or weekend, is always a treat to the over-worked. Just seeing a different road during your drive can lift your spirits and get in touch with your sense of youth and curiosity. While tropical vacations are nice, when the funds are low, you may need to hit local road trip destinations instead. The Pacific Northwest is a beautiful area of the United States with everything from snow-topped mountains to temperate rainforest and you are sure to find something enjoyable. Included here are a few of the best travel destinations in the Pacific Northwest.

San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands are an archipelago located Northwest of Seattle, Washington. This otherworldly destination feels light-years away from the city, as you wind through wooded islands on-board a ferry. Visit the historic seaport of Friday Harbor for museums and shopping. If orca watching is more your speed, Lime Kiln State Park on San Juan Island should offer plenty of opportunities!

Mount Rainier National Park

Viewing the snow-topped peak of Mount Rainier in the background of a Seattle Space Needle shot is about as classic as it comes. On clear days, you can view this majestic peak from many surrounding areas, but visiting the park provides a unique experience. Tipsoo lake is a popular destination in the park that offers crystal clear reflections of the peak in its pristine waters.

Port Townsend

If Victorian, historic seaports are more your speed, consider visiting Port Townsend on the Olympic Peninsula. Once called the “City of Dreams” in anticipation of its seaport potential, Port Townsend has remained one of the best small towns in America. People in this town prefer life at a slower pace and enjoy indulging in fresh seafood and artistic mariner-inspired creations.

North Cascades National Park

For those with a love of turquoise alpine lakes and backpacking weekends, North Cascades National Park may be just the destination you require. This park houses wildlife such as bald eagles, gray wolves, black and grizzly bears, cougars and moose. If you don’t have the knees or time to strap on a pack, viewing the natural area driving along Highway 20 is a treat in itself.

Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge

The longest natural sand spit in the United States, the Dungeness Spit reaches 5.5 miles into the strait of Juan de Fuca as part of the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge protects over 250 species of birds, including the elusive snowy owl. Walking the spit allows you to visit the historic lighthouse and see unrivaled views of the Olympic mountains. On exceptionally clear days, you may be able to see views of Vancouver Island, Canada, as well.