A road trip from Seattle, Washington, to Sunriver, Oregon, is more than just a scenic drive; it’s a chance to turn the journey itself into an unforgettable adventure. With misty forests, waterfalls, quirky roadside attractions, and fascinating history along the way, this route delivers a perfect blend of natural beauty and Pacific Northwest charm.
If you’re heading to Sunriver for biking, skiing, floating the Deschutes, or just breathing that forest air, consider transforming the roughly 6–7 hour trip into a full-day exploration with these standout stops.
Click the button below to download a flier of these road trip stops with their location and information.
Stop 1: Washington State Capitol Building (Olympia, WA)
Kick off your adventure with a dose of grandeur at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia. The elegant domed building rises dramatically above Capitol Lake and offers free guided tours that highlight the building’s architecture, history, and art.
Even if you don’t go inside, wandering the grounds is worth the time—towering evergreens, manicured gardens, and sweeping waterfront views make it a relaxing first stop before you settle in for the longer stretch of road.
Adventure Tip: Grab a coffee and/or pastries in downtown Olympia before you hit the highway again. It will help keep sleepy eyes and hangriness from taking over!
Stop 2: Multnomah Falls (Columbia River Gorge, OR)
No Pacific Northwest road trip is truly complete without a stop at Multnomah Falls, one of Oregon’s most iconic natural wonders. Dropping a breathtaking 620 feet, it’s the tallest waterfall in the state and one of the easiest to access—just steps from the parking lot.
Take a quick walk to the viewing area, or stretch your legs with the short hike up to Benson Bridge, where you can feel the mist swirling around you. The fresh air and dramatic basalt cliffs set the mood for the natural beauty ahead on your drive.
Adventure Tip: If timing and weather allow, try the slightly longer hike to the top of the falls for a more immersive experience (and a stellar view!)
Stop 3: North American Bigfoot Center (Boring, OR)
Yes, Boring is the real name of the town—but the stop certainly isn’t!
The North American Bigfoot Center is an absolute must-do for anyone who loves folklore, cryptids, or just delightfully unusual roadside attractions.
Inside, you’ll find exhibits exploring the history, sightings, and cultural lore of Sasquatch across the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, it’s fun, quirky, and surprisingly informative.
Adventure Tip: Pick up a Bigfoot air freshener or bumper sticker. Your car has earned some personality by now.
Stop 4: Museum at Warm Springs (Warm Springs, OR)
As you transition from forests to the high desert landscape, make time for the Museum at Warm Springs, a beautifully curated center dedicated to the culture, history, and art of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs: the Warm Springs, Wasco, and Paiute peoples.
Exhibits include traditional beadwork, basketry, tools, clothing, and stories passed down through generations. The museum offers a thoughtful, meaningful break in the drive and adds cultural depth to your journey before you arrive in Central Oregon.
Adventure Tip: Check the museum’s calendar—special exhibits and events often align with seasonal travel.
Stop 5: The Last Blockbuster (Bend, OR)
Just when you think the road trip can’t get any more nostalgic, you arrive at The Last Blockbuster on Earth, located in Bend.
This open and operating store is a time capsule of movie nights past—rows of DVDs, a wall of candy, staff picks, and even 90s-style merch. It’s part museum, part functioning rental store, and a perfect stop for photos, souvenirs, and reminiscing about those “be kind and rewind” days.
Adventure Tip: They sell exclusive shirts, magnets, and stickers, which make great gifts for anyone who remembers renting movies before streaming existed.
Arrive in Sunriver: Your High Desert Reward
Once you roll into Sunriver, you’ll understand why this drive is worth savoring. With its bike paths, alpine lakes, wildlife, and starry skies, the area makes an ideal basecamp for the next part of your adventure, which could be anything from skiing Mt. Bachelor, kayaking under volcanic cliffs, or simply relaxing in a hot tub under a blanket of stars.
Turning the Seattle-to-Sunriver drive into a full-day journey transforms it from a straightforward commute into a curated Pacific Northwest adventure. From waterfalls and history to Sasquatch and nostalgia, each stop adds personality and depth to the road trip that makes your arrival in Sunriver feel like the exciting finale of the journey rather than just the starting point.
Don’t Miss Out When Offline
There are areas along this route that have spotty to no reception. Don’t lose your road trip list because of it! Download the flier detailing this route and these stops so you have it readily available regardless of reception.
Comfy Vacation Rentals for Every Adventure
No matter where you stop along the way to Sunriver, ensure your final destination is a perfect fit for everyone in your group. With spacious rentals for large groups to intimate rentals for couples and additional amenities like private hot tubs, pet-friendliness, and more, book your Village Properties at Sunriver vacation rental knowing it’ll be another highlight of your Sunriver adventure.
