Summer Road Trip in the Pacific Northwest

Get to downtown: As it is the largest city in the PNW, Seattle will be the air travel hub to get into the area. Luckily, almost all major airlines fly in to the Seattle-Tacoma airport and you can find a flight that gives you time to orient yourself and experience Seattle properly. Whether you flew in and rented a car, or arrived by the road, head downtown to where you will find the unique boutique Palihotel Seattle, which puts you in the perfect place to start exploring the city.

Watch fish fly: Right across the way from your hotel is Pike Place Market, world famous for its flower vendors, local stores and fish throwing theatrics. The market itself is three stories, so plan a couple of hours to really explore. Don't forget to check out the Gum Wall, located just south of the market.

Dinner at the hotel: Hit The Hart and The Hunter diner located inside your amazing hotel. Enjoy the night with a peaceful walk along the shoreline and get some rest for the next day.

Grab some coffee: Hit up any of the number of coffee shops around Pike Place Market for a quick energizer and pastry. You can also try Top Pot Doughnuts — there are a few locations — which will surely be some of the best doughnuts you have ever had.

A comprehensive experience: One of my favorite tools to use in Seattle is the Seattle CityPASS. This will give you access to two of the top locations in Seattle: the Space Needle and Seattle Aquarium, and three of your pick of five other attractions. The Seattle Aquarium is within walking distance of your hotel, and after you have experienced all the aquatic life there is to see, head towards the Space Needle and make sure to stop by the Museum of Pop Culture.

An unusual fusion: After you are finished with your CityPASS attractions, head east with your luggage and hunger to Di Fiora, a European-Asian fusion restaurant located near Seattle University. The experience you get from this eatery is top tier and will have you thinking about it in years to come.

Head east: Pack your car up and head east towards Leavenworth. Definitely aim to take the Highway 2 route as this runs along the Skykomish River, which offers incredible scenery. Once you arrive, you will check into Hotel Leavenworth reflects the town's vibe: classical German style with a modern twist.

Get your Insta moments: The best activity to do in Leavenworth is to walk around town. With such quaint surroundings, it is hard to resist having a little photo op. Take your pictures in the morning when the western sun is coming over the mountains and there are fewer people in the streets.

Going inland: It's time to head to Spokane. Make your way to I-90 and follow it east through rolling hills. You'll arrive in the heart of Spokane. Make your way to South Perry District where your lodgings will be waiting.

Get some grub: Spokane is famous for its many pubs, and there is plenty to explore close to River Park Square, including Purgatory Craft Beer and Whiskey. If you're not in the mood for a bar, there is plenty of pizza parlors close to Gonzaga University that will cure your hunger

Play some interesting games: In Spokane, check out Flatstick Pub. This place offers an interesting twist on a classic bar with games including mini golf and wickets. Try your hand at Flatstick's proprietary Duffleboard: a combination of shuffleboard and mini golf. The play is relatively inexpensive and the novelty of the games creates a create atmosphere for friendly competition.

The best breakfast ever: Enjoy an incredible meal at The Old European Restaurant. As you make your way towards Coeur d'Alene, take a pit stop in Post Falls to experience this amazing breakfast diner. Freshly squeezed orange juice, Danish aebelskivers and original German potato pancakes.

A quick hike: Especially if you are visiting during the spring time, the Falls Park Overlook Trail is a must. To see the water rush out of the dam is stunning, and it truly shows Idaho's commitment to sustainable practices as well.

Downtown experience: Go ahead and check-in to your one of a kind room at Coeur d'Alene Resort in the heart of downtown. Grab some lunch at Moon Time. Walk west on Sherman and visit Figpickels Toy Emporium.

Summer activities: Typically downtown is crazy busy during the summer, however you can beat the heat and crowds with a float plane tour or renting some jet skis. If you happen to be in Coeur d'Alene on a Wednesday, check out one of the "Live After 5" music events that happen in McEuen Park next to downtown.

A CDA staple: A visit to Coeur d'Alene is not complete without a trip to Capone's Pub in Midtown. Located north of downtown, a 15-minute walk will get you to Coeur d'Alene's most famous pub and grill. Make sure to try their local drinks and soft crust pizza.

World-famous breakfast: Known for its episode on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Jimmy's Down the Street offers a true American breakfast with hearty portions. Their corned beef hash is incredible.

A local campus: Although it lacks high activity, North Idaho College offers a beautiful campus for walking. Follow the pathway next to the lake and then cut through the campus to experience the perfect balance of human construction and natural integration. If you want to take it up a notch, continue your walk to Tubb's hill where there are multiple different trails to hike just steps away from downtown.

The burger joint: Your last stop in Coeur d'Alene should be memorable, and oh boy is Hudson's Hamburgers memorable. The cash-only joint offers homemade pies and hand-pressed burgers.

A good luck charm: The closest rental car drop off and airport is back in Spokane. Stop in at O'Doherty's Irish Pub for a farewell meal before heading home.