Tag: hiking

5 Things to Do around Mt. Desert Island

Did you know that Maine’s nickname is “Vacationland”?  If you think about an idyllic vacation spot, Maine just may have it all. Long stretches of iconic rocky beaches, ocean views, woodlands and water, good food, history, and the list goes on. Add amazing glamping accommodations to that list and you know where you’re headed this summer – Maine! Choose from glamping cottages or cabins at Mt. Desert Narrows Camping Resort or Narrows Too Camping Resort and come see just why Maine is definitely vacationland!  

1. On Land: Head into Bar Harbor to visit this charming seaside community. There are trolley tours, foodie walking tours, ghost tours at night, and live music every Monday and Thursday evening on the Village Green. You can also choose to walk the land bridge from Bar Harbor over to Bar Island during low-tide for some stunning views.  

Downtown Bar Harbor, ME

2. On Water: From whale-watching cruises to a sunset cruise on Frenchman Bay, there are definitely plenty of things to do on the water. From a personal standpoint, you can kayak and canoe (check out Jordan Pond or Seal Cove in Acadia).  

3. Into the Woods: If you’re looking for a wooded wonderland, then Maine is certainly the place as roughly 89% of the state is covered by forestland. The gem of all that forestland is Acadia National Park. Over 35,000 acres of the land in Acadia National Park belongs to the National Park Service and breaks down to roughly 27 miles of historic motor roads, 158 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads. Plus, there’s Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the eastern seaboard; Jordan Pond with its crystal clear waters; and Thunder Hole, a V-shaped inlet that naturally creates a thunderous sound as air escapes the inlet. Activities here include kayaking, bicycling, tidepooling and hiking.  

Vacation Cottage at Narrows Too Camping Resort
Vacation Cottage at Narrows Too Camping Resort

4. Back in Time: Learn about the history and culture of the Wabanaki tribes when visiting the Abbe Museum, which is located on Mt. Desert Island; to learn about the history of the island of Bar Harbor, which was founded in 1604, head to the Bar Harbor Historical Society, which is housed in an old convent and features Civil War memorabilia and more; the Great Harbor Maritime Museum offers maritime history and paraphernalia as well as changing exhibits.  

5. Out of the Ordinary: Have you ever been to a lumberjack show? If you want to see axe throwing, log rolling and all kinds of chopping and sawing competitions, check out the Great Maine Lumberjack Show. For details visit mainelumberjackshow.com. 

Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort

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Discover the Joy of Townsizing Your Vacation

One of the latest travel trends is known as townsizing, which involves seeking out travel destinations that are smaller, less touristy, and almost naturally have a more relaxed vibe. They don’t necessarily have to be beach towns, but some of the less populated may fit the bill. The trend values charm over bustle, slow over go-go 

Lake George, New York

Lake George, New York

While Lake George, located in the beautiful Adirondack Mountains in New York, is definitely a summer tourist destination, its main draw is the lake and the mountains. So, you won’t find theme park lines here or crowds waiting to get into the main attraction since the main attraction is free. Take to the lake to kayak, canoe, swim or fish and for a sentimental journey, consider a dinner or sunset cruise. Hike during the day on the trails (consider Pilot Knob or Black Mountain), read a book at the beach (Million Dollar Beach is the most popular while Hague Town Beach Park is considered more peaceful). If you want more small town charm, take a day trip to Saratoga Springs. 

(your glamping rental is waiting for you at Lake George Escape Campground) 

Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

Slow pace is the theme here, and the rolling hills of the scenic countryside just may lull you to sleep or at least into a more relaxed version of yourself. Fish, hike, take a pretzel rolling class, stroll the Central Market, America’s oldest, continuously operating farmers market, or enjoy an authentic Amish meal. For all things Lancaster County, go to visitlancasterpa.com. 

Cabin at Spring Gulch Camping Resort
Cabin at Spring Gulch Camping Resort

(your glamping rental is waiting for you at Spring Gulch Resort Campground) 

Franklin, Tennessee

While it’s less than 30 miles from the neon lights and bustle of downtown Nashville, Franklin, Tennessee seems like a world away. Stroll Main Street and visit the shops and boutiques, or grab a bite to eat. Take a walking ghost tour at night. Ride the Franklin Hop for a guided tour or enjoy a night of open-mic live entertainment.  

Natchez Trace Tiny House Village
Natchez Trace Tiny House Village

(your glamping rental is waiting for you at the Natchez Trace Tiny House Village) 

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Explore Endlessly on these 3 Short Road Trips

Boston to Tuxbury Pond: Hit the road and head north from Boston to South Hampton, New Hampshire where you can delight in staying in a tiny house at the Tuxbury Pond Tiny House Village. Come summer, Hampton Beach State Park will be the spot to soak up the sun during the day and enjoy the variety of entertainment planned for summer events including Monday night movies, Wednesday fireworks and weekly concerts. Mark your calendar for the Sand Sculpture event set for June 18-20 or the end of summer Seafood Festival, set for September 11-23. Check out Odiorne State Park for miles of hiking trails, ocean views, remnants of historic military encampments and the Seacoast Science Center that offers plenty of exhibits and special events.  

Mt. Hood Tiny House Village

Portland to Mt. Hood: Blink twice if you’re heading from Portland to the Mt. Hood area! At just under an hour, it feels like leaving the city behind occurs “in the blink of an eye.” Once you arrive and settle into your unit at the Mt. Hood Tiny House Village, get ready to go “off grid” like never before. A four-season destination, the Mt. Hood area has something to do no matter the time of year or the weather forecast. Skiing, hiking, mountain biking, wildflower viewing and birding are just a few options. Check out the historic Timberline Lodge, attend the annual Sasquatch Festival, visit the wineries, enjoy the wildflower blooms in Mt. Hood National Forest or drive the Mt. Hood Scenic Loop Tour.  

Vacation Cottages at Thousand Trails Palm Springs
Vacation Cottages at Thousand Trails Palm Springs

San Diego to Joshua Tree: The drive is a little over 2 ½ hours, but the change of pace from go-go to go-slow is worth every minute. Book a cabin or cottage at Thousand Trails Palm Springs and plan to get in touch with nature at nearby Joshua Tree National Park. Go rock climbing, walk the trails, explore the cacti grove, stay for the sunset and enjoy stargazing since Joshua Tree is a designated International Dark Sky Park. Joshua Tree also has 18 known vortices which are said to have healing powers and spiritual energy. And if this city vibe is still pulling you, keep in mind there is plenty to do in Palm Springs including shopping, dining, and the weekly VillageFest on Thursday evening that features live entertainment, food vendors and artisans in a street-fair style event.

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5 Things to Do in the Mt. Hood Area 

Considered a year-round playground in the Pacific Northwest, Oregon’s Mt. Hood area has plenty of reasons to visit. First off, who can resist a tiny house glamping stay as autumn begins its descent in the Pacific Northwest? Book a tiny house at the Mt. Hood Tiny House Village and set off to discover the natural beauty, outdoor adventure and whole lotta fun found in this beautiful part of Oregon.  

Mt. Hood Tiny House Village

1. Bagby Hot Springs: Take a dip in the natural, geothermal spring complex in Mount Hood National Forest and let the waters work their wonders. Also known as Bagby Hot Springs, visitors can soak in communal or private cedar tubs in the roughly 138-degree water. Soaking in the waters is said to improve circulation, relieve stress, reduce inflammation and promote better sleep. For information and location details, visit bagbyhotsprings.org. 

2. Steiner Log Church: How often do you get the opportunity to visit a built-by-hand log church? Henry Steiner and his sons built 100 log cabins and two log churches in the forest lands of Mt. Hood over roughly 27 years beginning in 1925. One of the churches, the 1937 Steiner Log Cabin, is now a historical landmark in Oregon and open for visitors to tour. For details visit steinerchurch.com. The church, which has been restored by Steiner’s son Harry and Mike Gudge, has amazing architectural features like basalt fireplaces made from nearby river rock; door handles made from gnarled tree roots and arched window exterior doors. 

A woman and man walk on a trail in the forest in early fall. Mt. Hood National Forest, Oregon.

3. Trail Happy: There are countless trails to explore here but a must-do list should definitely include the Mirror Lake Trail, a moderate 4-mile trail with views of Mt. Hood; the Tom, Dick and Harry Mountain Trail, a longer, more difficult hike at 9 miles but you get to see Tom, Dick and Harry, three distinct mountain peaks along the way; and the Old Salmon River Trail, a relatively easy and flat, less than 3-mile trail that come September provides the opportunity to see salmon spawning as you hike along the Salmon River.   

4. Visit the Mountain Towns: Several mountain towns worth a visit can be found a short distance from Welches including Government Camp, which is home to the historic Timberline Lodge and the Mt. Hood Cultural Center and Museum; Rhododendron, named for the colorful shrub that blooms here in spring and offers access to the Ramona Falls Trail; and Boring, which is anything but as it is home to the North American Bigfoot Center which is all about the local celeb, Sasquatch himself.  

Mt. Hood Scenic Byway

5. Mt. Hood Scenic Byway: Of course, the best way to get to know an area is to take a drive and make notes of where you want to stop and visit or head back to. The Mt. Hood Scenic Byway is probably one of the top scenic drives in the US and is definitely a great way to get a taste of what this area of the Pacific Northwest has to offer. The 100-mile roadway takes you past berry farms, wineries, flower and farm fields, rivers, mountains and more.  

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Where to Stay in a Yurt for an Unforgettable Trip

Aside from being the ultra-hip accommodation as the glamping trend continues to gain popularity, a yurt offers so much for a glamping getaway. If you’re new to glamping, or a tried-and-true camper looking for something different, you will quickly find out that the yurt offers a very unique space that has all the amenities you could imagine. Cable TV, bathroom accommodations within the space, comfy bunks, a kitchenette, electricity and plenty of room for activities! Plus, you don’t have to duck when you stand up. This all goes without even mentioning the sense of well-being that is associated with the modern versions of these age-old dwellings. The circular shape of the yurt is said to provide a sense of connection as well as relaxation. So, booking a yurt for your next glamping trip would be an ideal way to get back to being connected with family, friends, nature and your well-being. Here are some options:

Yurt at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes
Yurt at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes

California: Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs in Oregon House has three yurt accommodations, one of which is pet friendly. Located at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, this location is excellent for hiking and trail-riding, plus there are onsite activities provided by the 120-acre private lake including boating, fishing and swimming. If you’re looking to get in some white-water rafting, consider a yurt stay at one of the two yurt options at Thousand Trails Snowflower in Emigrant Gap which is nearby to the Truckee River. The town of Truckee has some great historical museums, as well as dining and shopping opportunities. Planning to explore Yosemite National Park? If that’s on your getaway list, book a yurt at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes. With 5 yurts, choose your location of a meadow setting, hillside setting or riverside setting.

Yurts at Mt. Hood Village
Yurts at Mt. Hood Village

Oregon: Yurt accommodations in Oregon include coastal locations (Thousand Trails Pacific City and Thousand Trails South Jetty), near Portland in the beautiful Mt. Hood area (Mt. Hood Village Campground) and in the town of Bend, considered the “outdoor playground of the West” (Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver). Bend offers four yurt options, with one being pet-friendly; Mt. Hood has two, both of which are pet-friendly, while coastal locations Pacific City and South Jetty offer two and four, respectively. While Bend offers hiking, biking and craft breweries, the Mt. Hood area is known for the Timberline Lodge and outdoor activities as well as annual festivals like the Huckleberry Festival and Sasquatch Festival. Coastal adventures at both Pacific City and South Jetty include lighthouse tours, beachcombing and countless dune trails to explore.

Thousand Trails Circle M Yurt
Thousand Trails Circle M Yurt

Pennsylvania: The beautiful rolling hills of Pennsylvania’s Amish country, combined with a yurt accommodation at Thousand Trails Circle M sounds like a perfectly peaceful glamping getaway. Choose from one of the two yurts located here and explore Lancaster County. Bike trails range from easy rides (the Conestoga Greenway is 1.3 miles) to more strenuous (the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail is 14 miles), while hiking trails are numerous and varied as well. Of course, there is the option to immerse yourself in the Amish culture with traditional dinners and tours or take a ghost tour, shop the Lancaster Central Market, which has been operating for over 300 years or take a cool covered bridge tour of the 30 surviving covered bridges in the area.

Yurt at Thousand Trails Mt. Vernon
Yurt at Thousand Trails Mount Vernon

Washington: With five different glamping locations with yurt accommodations in Washington State, you can “yurt” your way through this fabulous Pacific Northwest destination feeling super connected to nature all along the way. Thousand Trails Grandy Creek is your gateway to Puget Sound and all things Mt. Baker while Thousand Trails Mount Vernon is great for nearby hiking trails and day trips to the San Juan Islands. Thousand Trails Long Beach is perfect for a glamping beach getaway and a stroll on the town’s historic boardwalk while Thousand Trails Paradise puts you in Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helens territory. Looking to visit Seattle, consider a yurt accommodation at Tall Chief Campground and you’re less than 30 miles from Seattle attractions like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market and the Museum of Pop Culture.

Wisconsin: “Explore the Door” as they say when you visit the 75-mile-long peninsula known as Door County. The yurt accommodations at Tranquil Timbers Campground sleep five and are the perfect place to call home while you do all the exploring of this great area that has outdoor activities, art galleries, quaint towns, plenty of shopping and dining experiences, and “uniquely Door County” experiences like fish boils and goats on restaurant roofs (Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant). Peninsula State Park is great for hiking and biking while those in the know say the villages of Egg Harbor and Fish Creek are best for shopping. Take the ferry over to Washington Island for a change-up in the beautiful scenery and visit Nelsen’s Hall for a traditional shot of bitters!

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5 Things to Do in Kissimmee, Florida

What do you get when you combine a colorful glamping cottage, proximity to major theme parks, and plenty of Florida sunshine? Sounds like the perfect glamping adventure to Encore Tropical Palms in Kissimmee is the result! Kissimmee, once a cowboy town thanks to the more than 300 cattle farms and ranches that were here in the early 1900s, is now a central Florida attraction for several other reasons. We’ve listed five here. And before you get started on your Central Florida adventure, don’t forget to book a colorful glamping cottage at Encore Tropical Palms.

1. Go Downtown: There are three great options to enjoy downtown experiences – Downtown Kissimmee, Downtown Orlando and Downtown St. Cloud. Downtown Orlando has a unique Instagram experience via its nine contemporary art sculptures scattered throughout the town for photo ops. There are also several outdoor murals to check out. A Downtown Kissimmee must-see would be the Monument of States which was compiled from rocks sent from around the world after the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor to show unity with the United States. Downtown Kissimmee is also the largest independently owned restaurant district in Central Florida so there are plenty of eateries to enjoy. If you want to learn the history of St. Cloud, simply follow the mural walls which depict the town’s history. Downtown St. Cloud also offers culinary bike tours, several restaurants and shops and the scenic Lakefront Park.

Downtown Kissimmee, FL
Downtown Kissimmee, FL

2. Go to Disney: Of course, you should go to Disney, but the one we’re suggesting won’t have rides and attractions. Instead, it will feature over 1000 species of plants and animals as well as forests, grasslands and wetlands. The Disney Wilderness Preserve features all this plus hiking trails and the 540-acre Lake Russell set on more than 12,000 acres managed by the Nature Conservancy. The Preserve is open Monday through Saturday from 9 to 4:30 p.m.

3. Not the Usual: If you tell someone you’re headed to the Kissimmee/Orlando area for vacay, the expectation is you’re going to the theme parks. Try something different this trip and see something unique. One such “something different” is Gatorland. This attraction of course has plenty of alligators as well as a petting zoo, an aviary, several animal shows, and 1200 feet of ziplines soaring over—you guessed it—alligators. Then there’s Wallaby Ranch which has nothing to do with wallabies but instead offers hang-gliding adventures over Kissimmee.

Cottages at Encore Tropical Palms
Cottages at Encore Tropical Palms

4. Fall Fun at the Theme Parks: Fall events at the big theme parks include SeaWorld Spooktacular (September 12-October 31); EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival (through November 23), and Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando (select nights through November.)

5. Museums: There are all kinds of museums in the area from art to history. Art museums include The Orlando Museum of Art and the Mennello Museum of American Art; history museum options can include the Museum of Military History and the Lake Wales History Museum.

Encore Tropical Palms RV Resort
Encore Tropical Palms RV Resort

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Sporty Spring Break Ideas

The nice thing about a spring break getaway is that the option to enjoy hot or cold weather sports still exists. Skiing is a very real possibility as is snorkeling and surfing. Wanna try a sporty spring break this year? Consider these options.

Cabin at Tahoe Valley Campground
Cabin at Tahoe Valley Campground

Skiing/Snowboarding: If you want to hit the slopes alongside all the rest of the spring breakers, there are plenty of options. From a glamping standpoint, the places to head would include Washington’s Leavenworth Tiny House Village; Oregon’s Mt. Hood Tiny House Village or Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver for cabins and yurts; California’s Tahoe Valley cabins or Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes’ cabins and yurts. Nearby ski areas include Tahoe’s Heavenly Ski Resort, the Leavenworth Ski Hill, Mt. Bachelor near Bend-Sunriver, the Mt. Hood Ski Bowl near Mt. Hood Tiny House Village, and Badger Pass Ski Area in Yosemite.

Cabin at Thousand Trails Pio Pico RV Campground
Cabin at Thousand Trails Pio Pico RV Campground

Surfing: While surfing is possible in Florida year-round, the surf season in the Sunshine State is considered to be from late November through March. If you’re glamping in Florida for Spring Break 2023 and surfing is on the agenda, consider a stay at Encore Miami-Everglades to be near South Beach for great surfing or Encore Bulow to be near surfing opportunities at Flagler Beach. On the Pacific Coast, glamp at Thousand Trails Pio Pico for San Diego surfing fun or Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon for good March surfing at Zuma Beach in Malibu.

Hiking: March is a great season to enjoy hikes in California’s Joshua Tree National Park and Sedona, Arizona’s Red Rock Country, with glamping stays at Thousand Trails Palm Springs and Thousand Trails Verde Valley, respectively. Both areas enjoy a more moderate temperature this time of year so it’s not too hot to trek around and explore. Of course, springtime in Yosemite National Park promises wildflowers, waterfalls, and plenty of great hiking – check out Mist Trail or the Bridalveil Fall Trail. You can do a different day hike every day if you book a yurt or cabin stay at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes which is five minutes from the Park’s entrance!

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5 Things to Do in Temecula, California

Looking for a glamping destination that includes great rental accommodations, a beautiful setting, and plenty to do in the area? Consider a glamping getaway to the cozy cabins at Wilderness Lakes in Menifee, California, and check out what we found nearby:

  1. Wineries: The Temecula Valley has more than 40 wineries spread among the rolling hills of this scenic Southern California location. There are four separate wine trails to explore and a complimentary winery map can be found at visittemeculavalley.com. Miramonte Winery is known for its beautiful views in addition to the great wines while Somerset Vineyard and Winery specializes in Spanish varietals. For a carefree tour, consider the tours offered through temeculacablecar.com.
  2. Old Town Temecula: Rustic buildings and quaint storefront shops harken back to the old days in charming Old Town Temecula. Modern-day visitors can enjoy several breweries, as well as antique and artisan shops, boutiques, and eateries. Check out the Old Town Sweet Shop, Temecula Olive Oil Company, Temecula Lavender Co., and the unique Temecula House of Jerky. If you spend the day here, stay for the sunset – Town Square Park is a great place to catch it.
  3. Hiking: There is plenty of hiking in the area with outstanding scenery. Consider the Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve which offers the Scenic Trail that runs along the Santa Margarita River, running about 4.9 miles. Lake Skinner offers a 1.5-mile path great for sighting owls, hawks, and herons. Or consider walking through the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve that offers great opportunities for sighting badgers, mule deer, and turtles and is also home to the historic Moreno and Machado Adobes, former cowboy bunkhouses dating back to the mid-1800s.
Wilderness Lakes Campground Cabin
Wilderness Lakes Campground Cabin

  1. Tenaja Falls: Located in Cleveland National Forest, a short hike from the trailhead (about 1.5 miles) will bring you in view of Tenaja Falls, which cascade 150 feet into the canyon below. Spring is the best time to visit to ensure the falls are flowing. Seasoned hikers take note – there is also a longer trail (about a 7.5-mile hike) through Fisherman’s Camp and San Mateo Creek with equally stunning scenery.
Hot Air Balloons rise over California Wine Country, Temecula, California
Hot Air Balloons rise over California Wine Country, Temecula, California

  1. Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival: Plan ahead to attend this three-day event that includes ballooning, wines and wine tastings, live music, and unique events like wine barrel racing. Craft beer tastings and a fair with over 150 vendors and a food court are also part of this annual event, set this year for May 19-21, 2023.

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5 Things to Do in the Russian River Valley

If vacation plans include a trip to California’s wine country, consider exploring the Russian River Valley, which lies in the heart of Sonoma County. So named for the Russian River that winds through this part of California wine country, the Russian River Valley is full of things to do – including taking in the many wineries. Book a cabin or cottage at Russian River and settle in for a getaway that includes beautiful scenery, plenty of outdoor activity and a few other things we found of interest.

  1. Charles Schulz Museum/Peanuts Sculptures: If you’re a fan of Charlie Brown and his friends, the town of Santa Rosa will be of interest. The Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center (schulzmuseum.org) is dedicated to the works of Peanuts creator, Charles Schulz. The museum includes a collection of both permanent and traveling exhibits and a re-creation of the studio where Schulz created the beloved Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and friends. For fun photo ops, there are several over-sized statues of the Peanuts characters around downtown Santa Rosa. Visit sonomacounty.com for a location listing.

  2. Outdoor Adventures: There is so much outdoor activity to be had in Sonoma County from biking to hiking to whale watching and, of course, sipping wine in the sun. Check out some of the vineyards as you bicycle by on the Santa Rosa Creek Trail, a 2.14-mile paved trail complete with scenic views. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park offers a hike with a waterfall while Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve features hikes among giant redwoods. Cloverdale River Park is great for water-based activities like canoeing, kayaking, and fishing on the Russian River.

  3. Jack London State Historic Park: If The Call of the Wild is one of your favorite books, or other works by Jack London top the list, head to Jack London State Historic Park, which contains the cottage where London wrote as well as several other historic buildings related to London and his life. Free guided tours are available and the Park also has hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing and picnicking. For details visit jacklondonpark.com.
Sonoma County Winery
Sonoma County Winery
  1. Wineries: Of course, wineries have to be part of an itinerary for a trip to Sonoma County and the Russian River Valley. There are at least 425 in Sonoma County alone and the best way to see them is on a tour. Whether you want a private tour, a walking tour, a group tour, a biking tour, or a trolley tour, they are all offered here. Check out sonomacounty.com to see the various tours available. Reds, whites, bubbly, rose, sustainable, rustic, majestic – the wineries here serve up something for everyone.

  2. Cheese Trail: If you’re not into wine, or just want a little cheese to go with your wine, consider exploring the California Cheese Trail. While the trail stretches from northern California on south to San Diego, there’s plenty of cheese to be found in Sonoma County. Visit cheesetrail.org to find cheese near your cabin at Russian River as well as other Sonoma County locations.
Russian River Cabin
Russian River Cabin

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5 Things to Do in… Seattle

Just like the fictional Emerald City discovered by Dorothy Gale when she was blown there by a Kansas tornado, America’s Emerald City is full of wonderous things to see and do. We’re talking about Seattle, Washington, and while you may not find the Wizard, you will find some memorable, one-of-a-kind things. If you’re planning to head to Seattle, book a stay in a nearby cozy cabin or yurt at Chehalis, La Conner, Mt. Vernon, and Tall Chief.

  1. Observe the Absurd: Seattle has plenty of museums, gardens, and parklands, the iconic Space Needle and shopping and eateries, but consider a trip on the wild side and observe these absurd Emerald City attractions. The Fremont Troll, which can be found under the Aurora Bridge, is an 18-foot-high sculpture of a troll made of concrete and wire. Pike Place Market is not only home to the odd tradition of flinging fish, but is also home to the Giant Shoe Museum, which houses a collection of giant shoes, including one worn by Robert Wadlow, considered the tallest man in the world standing at 8’ 11”.
Aurora Bridge in Seattle, WA
  1. Exhibits, Exhibits: Now that museums and other public venues have begun to reopen, see what’s new in Seattle. The Museum of Pop Culture debuted Heroes and Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume on June 5. The exhibit includes more than 70 original pieces from a sorcerer’s cape to ballgowns to tiaras and one famous glass slipper. The Seattle Art Museum will host “Monet at Etretat” through October 17, which displays works created by Monet when he retreated to the seaside town of Etretat. There are 10 works by Monet as well as 12 works by his contemporaries of the era. An exhibit that “brings to life the genius of Leonardo DaVinci” will be on display at Seattle’s Museum of History and Industry through January 2022. A great lesson for all ages as the display is interactive and has life-sized replicas and animated presentations of some of DaVinci’s greatest works.
  1. Outdoor Adventures: There’s hiking, beachcombing, paddling, and more in and around the Seattle area. How about whale watching? Alki Beach is a good spot (note: winter, spring, and fall are the best times to glimpse a whale) and is also known for its great scenic views and the occasional seal pups. Alki Beach is also home to Alki Point Lighthouse which offers tours on Sundays during summer. Hiking at Discovery Park, a 534-acre city park or at Mt. Si, which is considered great for casual hikers, are two options for an outdoor trek. Rent a kayak from the Agua Verde Paddle Club, or opt to take a tour with them, and discover Seattle’s unique houseboat community.
Alki Point Lighthouse in Seattle, WA
  1. Seattle Spirits: Seattle offers several spirits to experience, including those of the paranormal kind. Check out viator.com for several brewery tour options that take you through two of Seattle’s neighborhoods known for brewing including Ballard and Georgetown. Follow the Woodinville Wine Trail that explores four distinct districts in the Sammamish River Valley. There are more than 130 wineries in the area. As for the other-worldly spirits, Seattle offers several ghost tours including the Haunted History Ghost Tours of Seattle, which is owned and operated by experts in the paranormal and occult. Boo!
  1. Chihuly Garden and Glass: Simply put, do not miss this! Featuring the works of famed American glass sculptor Dale Chihuly, visitors can view eight galleries of his work as well as marvel at the stunning Glasshouse with its centerpiece – a 100-foot-long suspended glass sculpture that resembles a serpent or an alien. Then there’s the garden with its lush plantings interspersed with more of Chihuly’s amazing pieces.

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