The Northwest may be tucked away in the corner of the country, but it’s home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and musically-rich cities in America. From urban culture hubs to outdoor amphitheaters with mountain backdrops, the Northwest delivers unforgettable trips for bands, choirs, and orchestras.
🎷 1. Seattle, WA – Innovation Meets Inspiration
• Why it’s great: Deep music history, home of Jimi Hendrix, and a thriving arts scene.
• Performance opportunities: Seattle Center, Woodland Park Zoo, local music festivals.
• Must-do: Visit MoPOP and perform in or outside the iconic Space Needle.
🎻 2. Portland, OR – Creative Capital of the Northwest
• Why it’s great: Indie music, friendly community, and great food.
• Performance opportunities: Pioneer Courthouse Square, PSU, Washington Park.
• Must-do: Tour and collaborate with the Portland Youth Philharmonic.
🥁 3. Spokane, WA – Hidden Gem with Big Sound
• Why it’s great: Less crowded and budget-friendly with strong arts support.
• Performance opportunities: Riverfront Park, Spokane Falls, historic Fox Theater.
• Must-do: Combine with a day trip to Couer d’Alene for nature + music.
🎼 4. Eugene, OR – College Town with Classical Cred
• Why it’s great: Home of the Oregon Bach Festival and University of Oregon.
• Performance opportunities: Hult Center, university stages, downtown squares.
• Must-do: Attend a rehearsal or masterclass with UO faculty.
🎺 5. Boise, ID – Unexpected and Awesome
• Why it’s great: Safe, affordable, and up-and-coming.
• Performance opportunities: Idaho State Capitol steps, parks, BSU campus.
• Must-do: Perform at a local community market or in the foothills park amphitheater.
🎤 6. Olympia, WA – Capitol Cool
• Why it’s great: Intimate, peaceful, and full of artsy energy.
• Performance opportunities: Capitol campus, community theaters, Percival Landing.
• Must-do: Combine with a day trip to Seattle or Mt. Rainier.
🎷 7. Tacoma, WA – Museums + Music
• Why it’s great: Less crowded than Seattle, strong arts infrastructure.
• Performance opportunities: Tacoma Dome, University of Puget Sound, LeMay Museum events.
• Must-do: Stay near the Museum District and perform near the waterfront.
🎶 8. Ashland, OR – Theater Meets Music
• Why it’s great: Home of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.
• Performance opportunities: Parks, small amphitheaters, OSF grounds.
• Must-do: Catch a show and take part in a dramatic arts crossover workshop.
🎼 9. Bellingham, WA – Small Town, Big Harmony
• Why it’s great: Close to Canada, great music scene at Western Washington University.
• Performance opportunities: Seaside parks, downtown art walks, WWU.
• Must-do: Performance at Boulevard Park or Mount Baker Theatre.
🎹 10. Corvallis, OR – Oregon’s Other Music Town
• Why it’s great: Home to Oregon State University with strong student travel support.
• Performance opportunities: University venues, riverfront events, farmer’s markets.
• Must-do: Combine with Eugene for a multi-stop college town experience.
Thinking about planning a cruise or destination trip for your music program? SchoolMusic.Travel can connect you with trusted travel planners who specialize in music group travel.