The Pacific Northwest overflows with unforgettable places to explore. From cool, green parks set like jewels in busy cities to rugged coastlines fringed by towering trees, the region offers extraordinary family excursions and awe-inspiring destinations. Beauty and heritage are just a tank of gas away and adventure is around the next curve in the road. Happy travels from your friends at Mullinax Ford!

One of Seattle’s top art locations, the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum showcases the mind-blowing glasswork of Tacoma, WA., native Dale Chihuly. Don’t miss the Glasshouse, home to one of his largest works whose colors and appearance change throughout the day depending on sunlight and weather.

What’s for lunch? In a city with 600-plus food trucks, hungry visitors can relish an extravaganza of creative culinary diversity. Unlike in most cities, where food trucks often move around, Portland’s mobile food purveyors are organized into stationary “pods” located throughout the city. Join a tour or explore on your own. Now what’s for dessert?

This small, day-use park is one of the best places in the world to watch whales from the shore. Depending on the time of year, awe-struck viewers can expect to see orcas, gray whales, humpbacks, minkes, and porpoises. The park also includes a 1919 lighthouse and an interpretative center.

A green oasis in urban Vancouver, Stanley Park is home to what may be British Columbia’s most visited attraction. Located in the Brocton Point section of the park, the nine poles reflect the arts and ideals of the Salish, Haida Gwaii, Squamish, and other indigenous groups. The park also offers gorgeous gardens and fantastic scenic views.

Haystack Rock is always ready for its close-up. The impressive 235-foot basalt sea stack – an iconic symbol of the Oregon coast – has appeared in films by Spielberg and Shyamalan, among others. Low tide is the time to check out the tide pools and sea caves. Bring your binoculars to spot the tufted puffins.