Discover the Unexpected

During Memorial Day Weekend in 2016, I decided to get in my car and drive without any direction, without any destination, without any plans. I called it my Solo No-Plan Road Trip. That weekend became all about discovering a new version of myself. 

My planned drive down Route 101 took an unexpected turn when I missed the exit, prompting me to impulsively head south on I-5. Kalama, a town I’d passed countless times without exploring, became my first stop, revealing its charming beach, McMenamins, and inviting local spots. Continuing south, I stumbled upon a giant nursery, a lively farmers market, and a serene nature reserve, with Salem providing a picturesque river park for exploration. On the way back, I did an unplanned meet-up with online friends and seized the opportunity to savor dinner at the burger place I’d passed earlier, adding a flavorful finale to a day filled with unexpected discoveries and delightful surprises.

Embarking on a solo journey from Port Townsend after attending a wedding, I began my adventure by mistakenly chasing the sunrise in the wrong direction. The quiet morning led me to explore the outskirts of the town before hitting the 101. In Sequim, I fueled up on coffee from Rainshadow Cafe and meandered through Port Angeles, captivated by its pier and the grandeur of Crescent Lake.

Venturing through Forks, a traffic jam prompted an unplanned detour onto an unnamed logging road, eventually leading me to Ocean Shores, where a surprising encounter with a friend brought a delightful pit stop. After an ill-prepared scooter ride on the beach, I sought warmth at Quinault Beach Casino, losing $80 in the process. Chasing the sunset along the Willapa River, my journey culminated in Astoria, where, despite the fading light, I found solace in Gizmo’s Arcade, indulging in childhood games and a Foo Fighters pinball machine before heading home.