Things To Do In Washington State
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Mount Saint Helens Forest Learning Center Most folks who remember the eruption of Mount Saint Helens in 1980 remember the monochrome photos of devastation; trees tossed like matchsticks and coated with gray ash, looking more like the surface of the Moon than the lush forests that lived on the mountain previously. Forests have returned …
*Note: there are some images that might not be suitable for children in this article, please use discretion. If you’re in the Walla Walla area, chances are you’ve heard of Gerald Matthew’s Museum of Un-Natural History. And if you haven’t, well, you’re in for a treat. Who is Gerald “Gerry” Matthews you ask? He is …
Written by: Ella Lucente Summer is just around the corner, and you know what that means: food truck season. That’s right, Tacoma started off the annual Food Truck Festival last weekend, and it will go through summer until August. On June 9th, behind the Tacoma Musical Playhouse as they were performing their rendition of Lerner …
In the Yakima Valley dinophiles can find an outdoor paradise filled with various dinosaur statues. Built back in the early 90’s, this dino-park went from a single sculpture to around thirty, thanks to the residents of Granger. Originally built as a way to “revitalize” the Main Street and downtown area, the Hisey Dinosaur Park has …
Mount Saint Helens Visitor Center Where were you when the mountain blew? If you’ve lived in Washington State very long, you have no doubt been asked this question. For those of us who lived here on that day 38 years ago (yes, it’s really been that long) we can answer that one easily. A major …
We recently discovered the PNW based clothing brand, “wish you were Northwest” and with that, we discovered their blog. Here is an article originally published here, that Tory has kindly given us permission to share. In no particular order, here are 10 of my favorite places in my home state of Washington! 1. La Push, WA …
Living in Tacoma for most of my life, I have found the restaurant/city life to be particularly exciting. Want lobster? No problem. Looking to try an elk slider? Yes, we’ve got that too. As I turned that whopping 21 years of age, I found it even more enticing to go into the bars and taverns …
Video recap of the 2018 Camano Island Studio Art Tour. Special thanks to Johannes & Heidi Happonen from PRPOSE Strategies for setting this up and Lesley Haenny from What’s Up NW for helping host! Celebrating 20 Years of World Class Art in a Lovely Washington Community Sprawling farmland, beautiful homes and scenic views of Skagit …
Video of the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden – May 2108 OK, before we get deep into exploring this rhody garden (and let me just say that it’s definitely worth exploring), I’ve got to address something. When I say, “Federal Way, WA” what comes to mind? It isn’t known for being a must-see Washington destination… unless …
With sights and scenery, Washington wins the hearts of tourists and locals alike. From the beautiful beaches to our historic Emerald City, we sometimes seem to forget that we have our own little adventures to explore right here that are exceptionally perfect for summer! Summer is on its way, so here are 15 awesome places …
Looking for an easy hike surrounded by gorgeous mountain vistas? Look no further than the Big Four Ice Caves. The trail is 2.2 miles from the paved parking area and varies from paved sections to gravel and boardwalks. The climb isn’t too strenuous, and there are places to stop along the way to catch your …
The Bacon and Beer Classic, presented by Cannonball Productions, came to Safeco Field for it’s fifth year and Seattleites were on hand to experience all things pork and libations. 2018 Seattle Beer and Bacon Classic Video Re-Cap! Video by Explore Washington State With thousands in attendance for the day and evening sessions, the lines to get into Safeco Field …
If you have traveled into or out of Tacoma, there’s a good chance you’ve seen the Thea Foss Waterway that runs under the 509 bridge just East of downtown. This waterfront has had a central role in the history of Tacoma, with businesses cropping up along its banks for more than 100 years. Foss Waterway …
Going to school in Washington is an honor. Not only do we have the most beautiful scenery surrounding us, but we have some awesome historic fixtures too. But those of us who have the privilege to attend such institutions know that it often comes at a price— a very expensive one. With tuition, room and …
The Ape Cave, that is. Concealed within the beautiful Gifford Pinchot National Forest on the southern slopes of Mount Saint Helens is a remarkable opportunity. Discovered in 1951, the Ape Cave is a natural lava tube lying just beneath the forest floor by logger Lawrence Johnson. He brought back Harry Reese and family to discover …
Pullman, Washington – Hometown of the proud WSU Cougars. The lentil capital of the world (why not?). And now, the Junk Castle. Located along Interstate 195, the Junk Castle has been attracting visitors for over 30 years. It’s constructed entirely from recycled, salvaged and scrapped materials. The Junk Castle Artist Now a historical landmark, this castle was originally built by Victor Moore. …
We found 4 events in various parts of the state that lead up to Earth Day on April 22nd. But first, a quick refresher… History of Earth Day April 22nd, 1970 marked the beginning of Earth Day. A day to reflect on our own environmental impact and to take action where it’s needed. Gaylord Nelson, …
Video of the Point Robinson Lighthouse on Maury Island – Vashon Park District – March 2018 About Point Robinson Since 1885 Point Robinson has provided “fog and lighthouse service” on the east end of Maury Island (although most visitors would think of it as part of the larger Vashon Island). The lighthouse is a twin …
An annual rite of Spring in Washington State, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival in Mount Vernon draws visitors from all over the world each year. The festival begins this year on April 1st and runs through the end of the month. The photos below were taken on April 10th. Video of the Tulips near Mount …
Seattle cherry blossoms on the University of Washington campus in March of 2018. An eclectic yet peaceful combination of nature, selfie poses, and busy minds. Video of the Seattle Cherry Blossom on University of Washington Campus – 2018 Original video by Explore Washington State. Taken March 21, 2018.
Get Inspired To Go Fly a Kite! Kites are a common sight on the beaches of Southwestern Washington. I remember staying at Ocean Shores with family many years ago and being fascinated by the stunt kites being flown in the mornings and later afternoons almost every day. Most of us remember flying a single string …
I’m typically not one for exaggeration. There’s already too much hype in the world. So when I say that, “It was the worst dining experience of my 30 years of life” this was a REALLY, REALLY bad…Oh, but wait. I’m getting ahead of myself. The Scene: A Family Outing It was an unusually sunny and …
We’ve all heard the opinion that western Washington is almost perpetually grey and rainy. While that may be the case in winter months, most of the west side is quite temperate and beautiful for much of the rest of the year. However, when it comes to one special west side region, an honest-to-goodness rain forest …
Who are they? Rose Freeman and Anastasia Allison are a unique pair of classically trained musicians based in Washington state. If you haven’t heard of them before, a short summary: they climb mountains with a violin and keyboard strapped to their backs & play their music in the open nature. But what they really do …
Pronunciation: gooey- duck. Let’s Dig Right In Did you know these Pacific Northwest clams retail for more than $125 per pound in Asia? Adding purchases within the United States, geoducks are an $80 million industry. That left us wondering a few things, mostly: how are more people not talking about these things?! Fun Fact: Geoducks …
Open for over 40 years, the Olympic Game Farm in Sequim is the perfect weekend trip for the whole family. Originally designed to be a holding facility for the animal actors in Disney films, this private wildlife organization is still rich with beautiful wildlife. With 84-acres to explore by car (via their driving tour) you …
Looking for a quirky but historically rich day trip with some friends? The Northern State Hospital Farm located in Sedro-Woolley, might be what you’re after! Opened as the third hospital in the state of Washington for the criminally insane, Northern State Hospital was, for its time, very innovative and forward-thinking. In 1912 when they …
Founded and preserved on April 22nd, 2005 (Earth Day) by Gordon Hempton, One Square Inch of Silence, is a beautiful project meant to highlight how serene it can be to stand in nature and not hear any noise-pollution. The project is located in the Hoh Rain Forest in the heart of the Olympic …
Installed in 1974, this goat statue does indeed eat your garbage- making it a useful and quirky attraction. Originally introduced to Spokane as an art installment for the World’s Fair whose theme was “ecology”, this metal goat can be found in Riverside Park. How does it work you ask? Well inside of the statue is …
History: As high school history class taught us, in the late 1800’s there was a gold rush in western America. While most headed out west to California, Canada and Alaska,- Washington was perfectly settled in the middle. This meant while gold seekers were heading up to Canada for their chance at glory, they were bound …
Gold Creek Pond & Trail Snoqualmie, WA Video of Gold Creek Pond near Snoqualmie, WA. Taken by Explore Washington State – December 21, 2017 We had heard that Gold Creek Pond near Snoqualmie Pass in Washington was the perfect spot for snowshoe beginners. But we were also pleasantly surprised to discover that it’s not short …
The Turnball National Wildlife Refuge covers an expansive 18,000 acres in the Channeled Scablands, and contains an uncommon ecosystem, including “basalt outcrops, flood eroded channels, and ponderosa pine forests.” With over 130 marshes, wetlands and lakes, a visit to the Turnball Refuge is one you will never forget. The History Photo credit Around 15,000 years …
Settled above the Okanogan Valley, Esther Bricques Vineyard and Winery is owned by Linda and Steve Colvin. Developed and curated by hand, they planted their first vines even before they were married. “Steve and Linda believe in sustainable agricultural and wine production practices in clean, fresh, fruity wines unfettered by rounds of manipulation.” This …
Four miles outside of Moses Lake, you can find The Grant County Sand Dunes and ORV Park. Here you can ride on the sand dunes which are open year round. Or visitors can enjoy the mud flats – an additional 3,000 acres of sand, mud and trails. These are only open from the first of …
Dubbed “the city’s crown jewel,” Lake Sacajawea and Japanese Gardens is essentially a one stop park for outdoor activities. Visitors can run, walk, jog, or even bike on the 3.5 miles of trails. The lake is also open for kayaking, fishing and canoeing. If you love the outdoors, there’s something here for everyone. When visiting, …
Located in southern Washington, White Salmon is a special place for sports enthusiasts. Named by the Lewis & Clark Expedition for the salmon they found in the White Salmon River, the name is the first hint at recreational activities. (Fishing… it’s fishing.) Your Options When in the city, make sure to book a rafting trip …
The History The Seattle Scottish Highland Games Association was formed back in 1947. A local group of Scots wanted to create a group whose mission included “keeping their ethnic origin alive as well as stimulating an interest in Scottish Highland Games through Scottish dancing, piping, drumming and athletic competition.” What Are Highland Games? Traditionally in Scotland, …
On the border between Canada and Blaine, Washington, there stands a Peace Arch. Every year, over 500,000 tourists come and visit this very special arch and the surrounding park. Unique in the world, the Peace Arch stands in two different countries and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places at a whooping 67-feet …
The History ©2017 Liberty Orchards Co., Inc. In the early 1900’s, two young Armenian immigrants became friends and headed to Cashmere with hopes of a successful business venture. They bought an apple farm, Liberty Orchards, and quickly began looking for new ways for their surplus fruit to not go to waste. Thus, began the apple …
The Pacific Coast Cranberry Research Foundation, was established in 1922, almost one hundred years ago, in Long Beach. Their goals, per their website are to fund cranberry research, maintain cranberry farms, produce cranberries on site to fund research & extension activities, and to provide an educational facility. Growing and Harvesting Autumn is the harvest time …
Washington Lavender located in Port Angeles, Washington is a relaxation haven. The land was originally bought fifteen years ago by a Canadian couple, Dan and Jane Abbott. They had a dream of one day “having a small farm nearby in their retirement years.” And so, it was! Four years later, in 2006, their replica of …
Deep sea fishing is by definition any kind of fishing done in water about 100 feet deep on a boat, that isn’t easily visible from shore. This makes Westport a hotspot destination for deep sea fishing hobbyist each year, in the Northwest. Charting a boat in Westport is pretty easy and visitors have four companies …
Dash Point Park and Pier – Tacoma Washington Video overview of Dash Point Park One of my favorite little spots to frequent in the south sound is the Dash Point Park and Pier in NE Tacoma. This cute condensed beach and pier is sometimes referred to as the “Lobster Shop Beach”, because the restaurant by …
7 Must-Know Tips For Planning Your Trip to the 2017 Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival If a trip into the winter wonderland known as the “Village of Lights” sounds like an adventure to you, grab your lederhosen and flannel… it’s time to plan your trip to the 2017 Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival! And the best part …
Cloudview Farms – Our Favorite New Spot in Ephrata, WA Fall is one of my favorite times to travel with the family. Leaving Tacoma around 9am, our destination this Saturday morning was the annual Cloudview Farm Festival in Ephrata, WA. The forecast was sunny with a high of 65, but that was on the other …
Saddle Rock – Sweeping Panoramic Views Of Wenatchee! A city landmark, Saddle Rock is an easily accessible hike about a ten minute drive from downtown. Ranging from two to three-and-a-half miles roundtrip, this Wenatchee trail is something for children and adults alike. Trail running (level 2), hiking (level 2) and mountain biking (level 3) are …
Cloudview Farm Fall Fest This upcoming Saturday, October 7th, Cloudview Farm located in Ephrata will be hosting their annual Fall Fest. From 2pm until 5pm families can enjoy free admission to the following: live music, kid activities, cider pressing, a pumpkin patch, hay rides and you can even sample the produce they grow. This special …
Pacific Bonsai Museum – The Most Diverse Collection In North America! Tucked away in an unassuming part of Federal Way, WA and surrounded by a forest, it would be easy to overlook the Pacific Bonsai Museum. But this little artistic gem deserves recognition as an ideal outing for Puget Sound residents or those travelling up …
Washington Hikes: Mount Pilchuck Lookout Hike Here at Explore Washington State, we’re always interested in finding out about people who are actively exploring new areas of Washington, whether that’s checking out new hotspots in urban areas, or out scrambling around in the woods with a GoPro. Just a few weeks ago, we ran across the …
Federal Way Performing Arts and Event Center Federal Way residents are excited to welcome the addition of the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center to the newly remodeled downtown district as of August 19th, 2017. From Seattle to Tacoma, those who are interested in the arts eagerly anticipate the growth of the Center into …