Caffeine and a scene — where to sightsee with coffee and tea

Coffee is a drink that’s designed to be enjoyed with something else, like a cappuccino and a croissant. A mocha and the morning newspaper. Perhaps an oat milk latte and the latest hot goss from your friends. Maybe your daily routine involves tea and a little bit of peace and quiet instead.

But it’s hard to beat the buzz of caffeine and a picturesque scene — and thankfully, the Pacific Northwest’s cup runneth over with both of these pleasures. So if you’d like to add a stunning vista to your order, give these cafes a try. 

Espresso Chalet | Gold Bar, WA

This long-running Highway 2 pitstop has fueled many adventures in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest over the years; it was also a filming location for the 1987 flick “Harry and the Hendersons.” Snap a photo with the 14-foot-tall star Sasquatch, grab a cup of joe, and head to the back patio. Just be sure you don’t have any coffee in your mouth, because your jaw will definitely drop when you take in the view of Gunn Peak rising majestically beyond the Skykomish River. 

Cafe MOHAI | Seattle, WA

First stop is this bustling spot in the Naval Reserve Armory (also the home to the Museum of History & Industry). You’ll find a full espresso bar of Seattle-based Fonté Coffee Roasters, as well as grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, soups, and sweet treats from Gourmondo’s in-house bakery. Pick up whatever tickles your fancy and enjoy the views of vintage ships and sea planes on Lake Union.

Caffe Vita | Seattle, WA

Opening on May 1 at the base of the iconic Smith Tower in Pioneer Square, Caffe Vita joins a neighborhood where tradition and innovation intersect. This partnership unites two local icons — one rooted in crafting exceptional coffee, the other standing tall as a symbol of Seattle's rich history — to create something as epic as the skyline view from the top and as meaningful as the conversations sparked over every cup.

The Brim Coffee Shop | Seattle, WA

You’ll find the only over-water coffee shop in the city nestled inside The Edgewater Hotel, where a mountain lodge aesthetic creates a cozy atmosphere to curl up with a coffee and a good book. From your vantage point on Pier 67, you can watch the ferries chugging to and fro across the Puget Sound. Note, the parking lot is reserved for hotel guests, but there is street parking available nearby.

Ben Paris | Seattle, WA

Around the corner from Pike Place lies the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee at Ben Paris. With a beautiful backdrop mural spanning the length of the restaurant by Kyler Martz, this is the perfect urban spot to cozy up after exploring the market. 

Friday Harbor House | San Juan Island, WA

Watch the ferries and boats come and go while sipping coffee in your room or order your coffee from the restaurant while taking in the panoramic views of the San Juan Channel, ferry landing, and marina. In summer, an expansive outdoor dining area with two large decks and comfortable seating makes the ideal location to wake up with a cup of coffee.

Stimulus Coffee + Bakery | Pacific City, OR

With the salty ocean air mingling with aromatic coffee and the rhythmic sound of crashing waves, it’s hard not to feel content here — the delicious pastries, courtesy of Ana De Lanoy, don’t hurt either. From the tables out front, you can gaze toward the horizon and watch flocks of pelicans in flight above the iconic Haystack Rock and Cape Kiwanda.

Herman's Coffee Bar | Cascade Locks, OR

This establishment is owned and operated in the scenic Columbia River Gorge by the Oregon Wildlife Foundation and with every cup of coffee, you support their efforts to protect nature. Pick up your drinks and head out to the viewing center (past the trout ponds) for an aquatic close encounter with the infamous mascot “Herman the Sturgeon,” a 10-foot-long, 500-pound fish that also happens to be over 80 years old.

Umami Café | Portland, OR

True, you will need a ticket to the Portland Japanese Garden to visit, but don’t let that dissuade you from this unforgettable experience. Warm wood and expansive, wraparound glass walls work to immerse you among trees that change colors across the seasons. The organic hojicha, a roasted green tea with malty, caramel notes makes for a delightful coffee substitute — you can even take it with you as you explore the garden grounds.