7 Of The Best Resorts In The Pacific Northwest For Your Family Vacation
Looking for a resort in Washington State or a resort in Oregon for a Pacific Northwest family vacation? We’ve got 7 that we think you’ll love.
If a Pacific Northwest family vacation isn’t on your bucket list, it should be.
Because all that great nature everyone seems to be chasing lately? It’s showcased here, in the PNW.
The diverse landscapes range from the fertile Willamette Valley to the high deserts of Oregon. Gigantic you-have-to-see-them-to-appreciate-them evergreen trees blanket many parts of the area. And the towering Cascade Mountains, much of which encompass national forest, provide a stunning backdrop for other parts.
All that gorgeous scenery makes for a fantastic setting for an adventure filled family vacation.
When we decided to make the PNW our spot for several trips, we found it a little tricky to pick resorts.
We were looking for resorts that provided lots for the kids to do. Even though ours aren’t quite so little anymore at 11 and over, we needed a fun-packed teen and tween hotel.
But we also wanted something that was special and luxurious for adults too. A place a little out of the ordinary for a “family resort”. A spot that makes adulting almost as fun as being in the not-yet-an-adult category.
So we made a few trips, did tons of research, and logged in lots of hours exploring.
And we found 7 of the best resorts in the Pacific Northwest to make the whole family happy. No cookie-cutter, impersonal spots here. These unique resorts in Washington and resorts in Oregon are sure to give you a place to lay your heads that is as special as the PNC itself.
What is there to do on your Washington State family vacation? Check out:
10 Fun Things To Do In Washington State On An Epic Family Vacation
Suncadia Resort in Washington
Suncadia Resort is located in the small town of Cle Elum, Washington. It’s about an hour and 15 minutes, or 80 miles, from Seattle. The fantastic location and plethora of activities makes it one of the best resorts in Washington for families.
Lodging and Dining At Suncadia:
The resort is a Hyatt property that offers a variety of accommodations. A 254-room lodge and a 18-room inn provide unique takes on a stay. Traditional hotel rooms, studios, and one and two-bedroom suites are available in both hotel style buildings on site. Condos and vacation homes are also available in separate locations close to all the action as well.
Suncadia features a variety of on-site restaurants. There are three sit-didn’t restaurants, a lounge with food offerings, a winery restaurant, a clubhouse restaurant, a coffee bar, and a a food truck.
Things To Do On Property:
Suncadia sits on a whopping 6,000 acres of land. The vast grounds are the highlight of the resort because they house so much to do.
Our family’s favorite things to do included biking on the fantastic bike paths, swimming in the pool (complete with a waterslide), and hiking the grounds. The on-site rental shop also has kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards for rent in the summer.
Winter guests have loads of entertainment as well. There’s so much to do that U.S. News and World Report named Suncadia one of 5 family-friendly winter escapes in the Pacific Northwest. Things like ice skating, tubing, and cross-country skiing top that list.
If hanging out in your own personal space is your jam, guests can rent a plethora of games. Jenga, cornhole, and all your favorite board and card games are yours for the asking.
And it’s not just kids who get all the attention at Suncadia. The list of activities is just as long for adults as it is for the younger set. We loved the spa, the on-site winery, and the fitness facility, which has a good selection of classes. More things to do range from everything to golfing and fly-fishing to indoor art classes.
What Makes Suncadia Resort Unique:
Suncadia’ s you-don’t need-to-leave-the-property vibe makes it a clear choice for a resort that is kid and adult friendly.
But, we think it’s the presence of Nelson Farm, which sits on the resort’s acreage, that makes it unique and truly travel-worthy.
Nelson Farm, which was once a working dairy farm, has an original farmhouse, barn, cabin and stables dating back to the 1890s. The structures have been reimagined as places where guests can participate in activities like ax-throwing, archery, and gel blasting. If you’re lucky like us, you just might even happen upon one of the many epic festivals hosted there throughout the year. Seasonally themed events are hosted frequently. And they’re a perfect way to get a taste of the best of Washington state.
Family-friendly wineries in Washington are worth exploring. Check out:
3 Great Wineries In Washington (And Tips On How To Best Visit Them)
2. Willows Lodge Near Seattle
Willows Lodge is a boutique hotel located in Woodinville, Washington, about 30 minutes outside of Seattle. Although it’s close to the city, the serene setting makes it seem a world away in all the best ways.
Lodging and Dining at the Resort:
Room and suite categories at Willows Lodge come in categories labeled “nice, nicer, and nicest”. (Love that!) Families of up to 4 can be accommodated in double bed rooms or suites with separate areas for the kids.
All rooms are furnished with lots of wood accents and comfy bedding.
Dining options include the very upscale Barking Frog and the also fantastic Fireside Lounge.
Things To Do At Willows Lodge:
The resort’s location means there are plenty of opportunities for recreation of property. Whale watching, rafting, hiking, biking are a few of them that are nearby.
Wine touring is another popular thing to do near the lodge. In fact, USA Today calls Willows one of the Top 10 Best Wine Country Hotels.
But, you also don’t need to leave the property to check the box on a great family vacation to Washington. The gorgeous gardens, huge inviting hot tub, and nearby trails are perfect places to unwind family-style. The spa is a hall pass-worthy way for adults to spend the day too.
What Makes Willows Lodge Unique:
While this lodging option may scream “couples trip”, it’s also a terrific family vacation spot.
We found the staff to be super friendly to kids and rollaway beds and pack n' plays are available free of charge. The serene setting helps even kids get their zen on. And four-legged family members can join in on family vacation time too with pet-friendly policies.
But, it’s really the 26-mile biking trail that is easily accessed from the resort that makes this a family gem. The wide trails wind past playgrounds and parks and into nearby towns to explore. Wilmot Gateway and Sammamish River Parks were our favorites for playing. And Old Town Redmond was our number one choice for cute cafes.
Wondering where to go near Seattle for a weekend trip? Check out:
Exploring Washington: 6 Fun Weekend Getaways From Seattle For Your Family
3. Salish Lodge and Spa Near Seattle
This Snoqualmie resort easily ranks as one of the best hotels in Washington. At about 40 minutes from Seattle, Salish Lodge and Spa makes a perfect city escape.
Lodging and Dining at the Lodge:
The 86 rooms at the lodge feature fireplaces, soaking tubs, and nice touches like copper kettles and comfy throws. Guest room options range from classic layouts to balcony and patio rooms.
If the lodge’s posh traditional rooms aren’t enough space for your family, check out their suites. They have plenty of extra room for the kids, with a living room featuring a pull-out sofa.
Restaurant choices at Salish come with truly epic views. The Dining Room is open daily for locally sourced hearty meals. And The Attic serves light fare. Both also offer season cocktails, craft beers, and private label wines. The Lobby Lounge also provides a cozy space to enjoy a cocktail or to gear up with morning coffee.
Things To Do At Salish Lodge and Spa:
As the name might suggest, spa visits top the list of things to do at the lodge. Guests can also hike on property or bike, horseback ride, and golf nearby.
What Makes Salish Lodge Unique:
See one photo of the back of the Salish Lodge property and you’ll instantly know what makes it unique. The gorgeous Snoqualmie Falls are a stone’s throw away. In fact, the lodge is perfectly perched on the shores at the top of the falls. The view was one of the best we’ve ever seen.
Hiking the grounds around the falls is an experience not to be missed. Although the falls are inarguably the highlight of any hike, the trails offer more as well. Native trees and fauna are marked with signs to let you know what they are. And spots to sit allow you to take it all in.
Where will you go next? Explore new ideas at:
12 Of The Most Fun Travel And Learn Destinations In The U.S.
Photo credit: Sunriver Resort
4. Sunriver Resort in Sunriver, Oregon
Situated on the banks of the Deschutes River in Sunriver, Oregon this retreat melds rustic charm with modern luxury. At about 15 miles from Bend, it provides access to all there is to do in one of Oregon’s fastest growing areas.
Lodging and Dining at the Resort:
Sunriver Resort’s large variety of accommodations means there’s something for everyone. The River Lodge guest rooms have access straight from the good ‘ole outdoors. And Lodge Village, the other hotel-style option, features rooms with a deck or balcony, and a fireplace.
Sunriver also has a collection of vacation homes, some of which are pet friendly, in the Caldera Springs and Osprey Pointe sections of the property.
The resort has 10 dining and drink options. The family-friendly Lodge Kitchen, Owl’s Nest, and The Grill at Crosswater are open year-round. Starbucks and the poolside Spotted Frog provide quick bites throughout the year as well. Zella Bistro, three cafes, and a food truck are open seasonally.
Photo credit: Sunriver Resort
Things To Do At Sunriver Resort:
At Sunriver, an aquatic center, fitness center with classes, and pickleball courts are available all year, as is a spa.
In warm weather months, guests can golf on a course set against the backdrop of the Cascade Mounatins. Guests can also explore the nearby scenic trails and kayak or paddle board on the Deschutes River.
In cold weather months, sleigh rides, light displays, and story times with Mrs. Clause fill the calendar.
Photo credit: Sunriver Resort
What Makes Sunriver Lodge Unique:
Sunriver’s great location and beautiful grounds earned it a spot on Travel and Leisure’s list of 25 best family resorts in the U.S.
And much like Suncadia in Washington, this Oregon resort has a wealth of activities and amenities that sets it apart. At 3,300 acres, it has a vast area to explore.
But even though families could easily fill all their time without leaving the resort, all there is to do nearby beckons as well. Being so close to one of Oregon’s best cities, Bend, means you have easy access to all there is to do there.
And outside of town the adventures continue. Lava tube cave tours, fly fishing, and exploring places like Crater Lake and Smith Rock round out a pretty unforgettable itinerary.
You might also like:
How To Create (And Learn From) The Best Family Adventure Vacations
5. The Allison Inn and Spa in Newberg, Oregon
Oregon’s Willamette Valley is the setting for this resort option, which is located just 35 minutes from Portland. It’s the place for exploring the region.
Lodging and Dining at the Inn:
The boutique size Allison Inn and Spa has 77 guest rooms and eight suites. Many guest rooms have two queen beds while suites have room for rollaway beds to accommodate kids.
Rooms feature gas fireplaces, muted colors and window seats or balconies. And they’re spacious so kids (and parents) have some elbow room. Things like complimentary snacks, plush bathrobes, and a mini-fridge help keep everyone happy.
Jory is the signature restaurant at resort. The restaurant is open every day for breakfast and dinner, on the weekends for brunch, and during the week for happy hour. It’s a fine dining menu that leans into seasonal, farm-to-table offerings. But guess what parents? The restaurant also has a children’s menu and provides room service.
Things To Do At Allison Inn and Spa:
On property at the Allison, you’ll find all the things to get you zen on and some things to entertain the kids as well. There’s a swimming pool, whirlpool, fitness studio, sauna, steam rooms, and a spa. In-room movies are also a great way to spend an evening.
What Makes Allison Inn Unique:
Allison Inn’s location in the heart of Oregon’s Willamette Valley is its claim to fame. The area is home to two-thirds of the state’s vineyards and wineries after all.
While it might seem adult getaways are more within this resort’s wheelhouse, don’t discount this one for a family vacation.
The impecable service at The Allison extends to both couples, singles, and families. So, while we didn’t see a lot of other families with children at the resort, our stay was no less wonderful.
The concierge went out of her way to find family-friendly wineries. Our suite provided plenty of family space. And the gorgeous atmosphere made us all feel like families really don’t have to be excluded from beautiful vacations.
TIP: Abby Road Farm and Austin Knoll were two of our favorite family-friendly wineries. Abby Road has a working farm the kids can explore. Austin Knoll, located on property, has llamas kids can visit.
6. Tetherow near Bend, Oregon
At four miles from both downtown Bend and Deschutes National Forest, this property offers a resort-style experience while still being close to the action. It encompasses 700 acres that are minutes from all the nature and cool city vibes.
Lodging and Dining at the Resort:
Lodging at Tetherow comes two different ways, either in the form of vacation homes or hotel rooms.
Families will find the most space available in the vacation homes available to rent. Guests can choose one of ten different floor plans according to what best meets their needs. Options range from studio apartments to five bedroom homes and everything in between. They feature things like fire pits, hot tubs, private patios and access to resort amenities.
The on-site boutique hotel houses 50 guest rooms. Rooms come in the form of traditional layouts as well as junior suites.
Three restaurants are located on the property. Solomon’s has a rotating menu and large wine selection. The Row offers a relaxed pub atmosphere amid multiple flat screen TVs. And The Cafe features a menu of pizza, sandwiches, bowls, salads, smoothies, coffee drinks and a full bar.
Things To Do At Tetherow:
Golf may not be unique to Tetherow, but the way many golfers experience it here is pretty different. That’s because Tetherow has the largest fleet of Finn Scooters and Golfboards (think stand-up scooter with a place to put a golf bag) in the country.
Guests of the resort can also enjoy the year-round pool and fitness center, or explore the all there is to do close to the resort. Hiking, mountain biking, rafting fly fishing, and brewery tours are some of the most popular things to do.
What Makes Tetherow Lodge Unique:
Tetherow’ s ability to be an all-out resort and have easy access to the area itself is what makes it unique. With several on-site dining options, recreation and lovely accommodations, you’ll feel like you’ve gotten away from it all. The best part is, you didn’t actually have to get away from it all.
Read more about our review of Brasada Ranch here:
Brasada Ranch Review: Is This A Good Resort For Your Family Vacation To Bend?
7. Brasada Ranch in Central Oregon:
Brasada Ranch is located in Powell Butte, Oregon. It sits on 1800 acres, 900 of which are protected. In addition to lodging for guests, the property has houses that function as first and second homes.
Lodging and Dining at the Ranch:
Guests at Brasada Ranch can choose from three different styles of lodging.
Families are welcome in the 65 Sage Canyon Cabins that feature two, three, or four bedroom layouts. All of the cabins include kitchens, patios, and fireplaces, and some feature hot tubs. Cabins are located away from the main lodge area, but within easy access.
Those traveling without kids will want to check out the newly built, adults only Cascade Bungalows. King bed suites with a sunken living area sleep two. The modern design is matched by a private outdoor space and hot tub. Bungalows are closer to the main gathering areas of the resort than the cabins, while still being private.
Another option for parties of two are suites and rooms located in the Ranch House. Guest rooms and suites feature fireplaces and decks reserved for those staying in the Ranch House. They’re available for two adults or one adult traveling with a child over the age of 14.
All guests are invited to dine in one of two on-site restaurants that often alternate opening times. The Range Restaurant and Bar is the ranch’s farm to table option for more upscale dining. The Ranch House is a more causal choice that features breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. And if cooking-in is on your to-do list, Brasada offers ranch platters, prepackaged make-yourself meals. New York strip steaks, pulled pork, or salmon fillets come with step-by-step instructions, as well as a choice of wine.
Things To Do At Brasada Ranch:
All that acreage at Brasada provides the backdrop for the best things to do at the ranch.
Biking and hiking are great ways to see the land. And of course, it wouldn’t be much of a ranch without horses, so exploring on horseback, like a true rancher, is a must-do.
Families can enjoy pools, tennis courts and kids’ activities like ping pong and archery. Adults can book spa appointments Wednesday through Sunday (book very early for availability) as well as enjoy the fitness center. And golf is another popular activity available to members and resort guests.
What Makes Brasada Ranch Unique:
Brasada’s uniqueness is inherently tied to the land on which it lies. It gives visitors, especially adult ones, the opportunity to see a side outside of Bend you just might otherwise miss. The gorgeous and vastly different high desert landscape is like an entryway to the wild Oregon. And the on-site trail riding is the perfect way to experience it.
