Give the gift of flight this holiday season! Kenmore Gift Cards
At the end of the day, whether Steve Bjorling has flown to the northern tip of Vancouver Island or the quaint dock at Roche Harbor, he’s put a smile on someone’s face. That’s what keeps this former police officer passionate about flying year-after-year.
“I love to fly, but after 19 years, putting a smile on someone’s face is what keeps this job enjoyable,” Steve told me as he flew de Havilland Beaver N72355 to Seattle’s Lake Union.
Kenmore Air’s new Seattle-Vancouver route offers the fastest way to travel between these two Cascadia Corridor tech hubs. Working in association with Harbour Air in Canada, it’s now just an hour scenic seaplane flight linking these two international cities.
While 140 miles and a border separate Seattle and Vancouver, the two cities share a great deal. From their ruggedly lush terrain and saltwater shores to their thriving technology-fueled industries, these Pacific Northwest gems are committed to building an economy based on human ingenuity.
This is why Washington State and British Columbia formalized the Cascadia Innovation Corridor last year. This is, ‘An ambitious initiative to get companies, universities and governments on both sides of the border working closer together,’ reported Ryan Holmes in his Seattle Times coverage.
Several pledges have been made on both sides, many of which focus on a commitment to fight climate change and exploring the feasibility of fast and convenient transportation. In order for the association to thrive, it’s paramount the two cities develop practical and convenient means of commuting back and forth.
Taking a direct flight from Seattle’s Lake Union to downtown Vancouver’s Coal Harbour located near Canada Place, passengers can be dock-to-dock in as little as 60 minutes. Additionally, international seaplane travelers face a minimal wait when they arrive at customs, and unlike the large airports of Sea-Tac and Vancouver International, checking in is fast and convenient with no TSA security checkpoints. Plus, passengers are treated to stunning, scenic views.
Alternate options are available. Travelers can certainly drive, but even under ideal conditions, driving between downtown Seattle to downtown Vancouver is about 4 hours, depending on traffic and border crossing wait times. That makes for a really long day if you’re going up for a one-day business meeting. Amtrak provides a scenic ride, although the trip also takes about 4 hours.
Spring is here. The cherry blossoms are blooming. The weather is warming. And, we’re offering 15% off on flights between Seattle and the San Juans or Victoria.
Just enter the promo code SPRING18 to save!
To help you get started planning, we’ve rounded up seven of our favorite reasons to visit the San Juan Islands and Victoria!
Seaplanes have been an iconic fixture of the Seattle skyline since 1914, when the first pontoon-equipped plane took off and landed from Lake Union. Today, regularly scheduled flights depart from the downtown lake, taking passengers on scenic tours of the city, to Victoria, and to the San Juan Islands. We have an extensive crew of exceptional pilots, including Chief Pilot Chuck Perry; Anna Gullickson, co-founder of Wild Orca; and Michelle Cowan, the first full-time female pilot at Kenmore Air to fly the entire line.
Our destinations offer a wide variety of kid-friendly activities. In Victoria, you’ll find a Miniature Museum that’ll make even the smallest kid feel big. Friday Harbor is home to thrilling zip-line tours, alpaca farms, and the Whale Museum. Scoot Coupe rides allow you to explore the island on your own schedule. In Victoria, you can visit the Butchart Gardens on a double-decker bus tour. And, that’s just a few of the fun kid-friendly activities.
With its old-world elegance and pedestrian-friendly streets, it’s no surprise Victoria is home to more than 10 fabulous places to enjoy a great cup of tea.
It’s said, ‘breakfast is the most important meal of the day.’ With such a fabulous selection of early-morning eateries in Victoria and the San Juans, who are we to disagree? On Orcas Island, Brown Bear Baking’s scratch-baked treats run from sweet to savory. Friday Harbor’s Harrison House is so well-known for their granola they’ve had orders come in from around the world. And in Victoria, chefs are flexing their creative muscles with a plethora of Eggs Benedict selections.
Love a good libation (or two)? On the northern end of San Juan Island, the San Juan Island Distillery is making some of the best apple brandy in the United States. With the plethora of microbreweries on Vancouver Island, Victoria’s pubs have become the go-to destination for locally brewed seasonal pours. This makes Victoria the ideal place for a DIY pub crawl. And on Orcas Island, the Island Hoppin’ Brewery has become a go-to for full-flavored pours served in an intimate and inviting setting.
Looking to indulge in fresh, seasonal cuisine. Chefs in the San Juans and Victoria have fully embraced the farm-to-table and sea-to-table mentality, sourcing local ingredients to create rave-worthy meals. At Doe Bay, the clams are out of this world. Rosario Resort’s Chef Raymond Southerland is revolutionizing old classics. Jay Blackinton, chef at Hogstone and Aelder, has been nominated for a James Beard. And, Victoria’s Agrius is serving a menu that ranges from albacore tuna spiked with sumac to tender pork shoulder with sauerkraut.
Is your ideal location one where you can bring home the perfect digital memory? Stretch your legs in Victoria by taking the ultimate photo walk throughout the city. Or just skip to the most Instagrammable places. Are selfies more your thing? Check out the nine best places to snap a selfie on San Juan Island. You may even be able to catch a whale in the background!
If the rugged mountainside and modern technology had a love child – Vancouver would be the result.
Fondly nicknamed ‘The City of Glass,’ this British Columbia metropolis sports a plethora of outdoor parks; a love for local, sustainable cuisine; and a passion for protecting Mother Nature. Literally – the Vancouver Sun recently published a veritable ode to a 600-year-old tree.
The following are just a few of our favorite Vancouver attractions.
Spanning 450 feet, the Capilano Suspension Bridge was originally built in 1889 out of hemp rope and cedar planks. Constructed as an alternative to forging the Capilano River running through the base of the canyon 230 feet below, the bridge connects visitors to a forest carpeted by lush firs and ferns. A series of elevated suspension bridges built within the trees (known as the Treetop Adventure) allows you to explore from over 100 feet in the air. And, the park’s newest addition – Cliffwalk – provides exceptional views of the bridge itself. This series vertigo-inducing walkways are literally pinned directly to the cliff!
Home to more than 50,000 fascinating creatures, the Vancouver Aquarium is tucked in the heart of Stanley Park. From the Arctic to the Amazon, it offers a unique opportunity to come face-to-tentacle with some of the world’s most elusive water-loving animals.
Perched at 430-feet, the Vancouver Lookout offers a 360-degree view of downtown and beyond. On a clear day, you can see Gastown, Coal Harbour, Stanley Park, the Pacific Ocean, North Shore Mountains, the Olympic Peninsula, boats, trains, and seaplanes!
From rich dessert-like malts to fruit-infused IPAs, Vancouver’s craft brewers are taking hop-filled libations to new levels. With a beer geek as your tour guide, explore the local beer scene, sampling and learning about the newest breweries and ones that have been loved for years.
With its large Asian population and close proximity to the sea, Vancouver is home to some of the best and most affordable sushi restaurants in North America. With more than 600 sushi eateries in the metro area alone, you can sample raw fish on practically any corner. Favorite stops include Tojo’s – one of Vancouver’s oldest sushi restaurants that features both traditional and untraditional rolls. Kishimoto is beloved for their house-made tamari dipping sauce. And, not to be overlooked is the ultra-elegant Sushi Bar Maumi, where reservations are a must.
Canada’s only Olympic Museum, The ROX invites you to relive iconic moments and view rare Olympic artifacts. But it’s the sports simulators that are the real reason to visit. From bobsledding and ski jumping to racecar driving and kayaking, you can test your skills and challenge the performance of actual Olympians.
Vancouver is home to the first authentic classical Chinese garden ever built outside of China. The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, an immaculately manicured sanctuary is located downtown. Its harmonious elements were constructed to make rock, water, plants, and architecture flow together.
Nearly 1,000-acres, Stanley Park is located on a peninsula at the center of Vancouver. Its shores border both Vancouver Harbour and English Bay. The varied terrain includes 400-hectare of natural West Coast rainforest, extensive walking and running paths, a beautiful display of First Nation totem poles, several restaurants, the Vancouver Aquarium, and more. While you can certainly explore the park on foot or by bike, horse-drawn carriage rides offer a leisurely and unique way to soak in the natural beauty.
Formerly an industrial site, Granville Island has become one of Vancouver’s most beloved neighborhoods. Best known for its open-air market, the island’s former factories are also home to trendy restaurants, galleries, and Canada’s first microbrewery – Granville Island Brewing. While you can reach the island by car, our favorite way to get there is aboard the passenger fair.
Like sushi, Vancouver knows more than a thing or two about dim sum. This Cantonese cuisine, with its emphasis on clean flavors and fresh ingredients, features age-old recipes and techniques handed down through the generations. The family-friendly dining rooms encourage sharing, so make sure to bring your appetite and your friends. Among our top picks is The Jade Seafood Restaurant where the dumplings feature refined wrappers without the oil and pork buns are tender and sweet. Also delightful is the Dynasty Seafood Restaurant and Pink Pearl.
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With its interactive museums, plethora of parks, and walkable streets, Victoria offers the perfect kid-friendly getaway the whole family will love.
Through a sweet treat, you can start your Victoria adventure with an introduction to one of Canada’s best-known national symbols – a beaver tail. Made with whole-wheat pastry dough, these donut-like treats are hand-stretched and served warm. Toppings range from chocolate hazelnut to apple cinnamon.
Plus, you can get them just blocks from the Inner Harbour Victoria Seaplane Terminal at BeaverTails. This beloved Canadian chain is also well-known for poutine – a local favorite featuring fries topped with gravy and cheese curds.
Once you’ve dropped your bags and situated yourselves, take a walk around Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Ghosts are said to linger around the heavily protected inlet. But don’t worry. The monuments, totem poles, and historic sites resting along the harbour’s shores remain spirit free until the wee hours. Wander past the elegant Parliament Buildings, where carriage rides are often seen beginning their adventure. Stroll through the gardens at the Fairmont Empress, which have been frequented by foreign dignitaries and famous individuals throughout the years. Try and blow a bubble as big as the pink Old Victoria Custom House, located at Broughton St. and Wharf St. And for lunch, pop down to the waterfront dock, where Red Fish Blue Fish serves rave-worthy fish ‘n’ chips and tacos. Housed in an up-cycled cargo container, this outdoor eatery tempura-batters their seafood, creating a light and flavorful meal.
Devoted to the miniature recreation of historic scenes and beloved tales, Miniature World features more than 85 dioramas and displays. The Great Canadian Railway travels across the country. Knights stand tall around King Author’s round table. From space and fairylands to old England and car rallies, this will make even the smallest among us feel like a giant! Throughout the museum you’ll find several push-button actions and trundling trains, sure to capture your child’s excitement.
The typical fast-food joint can often leave you feeling more than a tad guilty about giving your kids the burgers and fries they crave. Such is not the case at Big Wheel Burger, where a commitment to locally sourcing sustainable, environmentally-friendly ingredients has been the practice since they opened in 2011. Here, the fries are crispy. Patties are made to satisfy meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. And the shakes are delightfully creamy.
From savory to sweet, fluffy interiors and crispy exteriors make West Coast Waffles a go-to for breakfast. The standard butter and pure maple syrup toppings are certainly available. But it’s their more untraditional waffle toppings which make this kid-friendly joint shine. Your kids will love green apples and caramel sauce toppings. Or for a special treat, consider the Oreo waffle, which has Oreo cookie baked into the batter! Adults will dig the waffle’s savory side ranging from a Mexican inspired avocado, salsa, and egg to a pulled pork and BBQ sauce monstrosity. They even have a pizza inspired waffle, served with a side of ranch perfect for dipping.
Is your little one ready to saddle up for adventure? Prince of Whales zodiac whale watching tours are one-part thrill and two-parts awe-inspiring beauty. These boat-based adventures take you and your kid out on the water to see some of Mother Nature’s most graceful and powerful creatures – orca whales. You’ll also have the chance to see shorebirds, sea otters, seals, dolphins, and grey whales!
Chances are your kids won’t want to leave the water once they’ve gone whale watching. So, don’t ask them to. Have lunch by the water at Fisherman’s Wharf. Just a short stroll (or water taxi ride) from the heart of the Inner Harbor, this working bay is home to a variety of novelty shops and restaurants. It’s also a fun place to watch seaplanes land and ferries come into port.
The Royal BC Museum’s elaborate exhibits immerse you in the region’s rich history. From the rugged ice age to the First Peoples’ traditional ceremonial house, your child can feel like they are walking in the footsteps of those who came before them. Say ‘Hi’ to Woolly, the museum’s unofficial mascot – a full-size mammoth. See just how ‘spacious’ the quarters of a ship’s captain can be. And, wander through the grand streets of Victoria in the late 1800s. Discover more about the Royal BC Museum.
Skip the fancy tablecloths. With its dedicated kid’s menu and funky interior, John’s Place offers a fun and affordable dinner destination beloved by locals. You’ll find an extensive menu raging from a southwestern-inspired meatloaf to a hearty Bangers ‘n’ Mash special loaded with fried onions and buttermilk mashed potatoes.
Blue Fox Café may have some of the best eggs Benedict in Victoria. They also have one of the most kid-friendly menus. From apple loaded pancakes to almond-infused French toast, this Victoria breakfast staple has a friendly staff and great service. Just be warned, it’s a favorite for locals. So, there may be a wait.
Head to Beacon Hill Park, where you and your kids can explore more than 200 acres of gardens, walking paths, and playgrounds. The park even has a petting zoo (aka Beacon Hill Children’s Farm) where you will all have the opportunity to pet goats and see a variety of animals, including peacocks.
Book Your Victoria Kid-Friendly Adventure
Victoria is a city rich with historical architectural and beloved rituals – not the least of which is tea. From afternoon tea to high tea, Victorians and visitors celebrate the indulgent reprieve from the hustle and bustle of life.
Eat and walk your way through British Columbia’s iconic capital, while soaking in Victoria’s breathtaking views, quaint neighborhoods, and thriving food scene.
There’s more to Victoria than the Fairmont Empress and Parliament Buildings. While both of these iconic landmarks are certainly deserving of a visit, B.C.’s quaint capitol is loaded with Instagram-worthy destinations.
Beyond these standard tourist attractions, there are some lesser-known gems that offer a peek into Victoria’s rich history and culture without ending crowded corridors and long lines.
When you have just a day to soak up the majestic beauty of Victoria, B.C., don’t let a second go to waste. Hit the streets. Immerse yourself in the culture. And, don’t forget your camera. You’ll want it on this photo walk.
Lunch. That magical mid-day reprieve when you can mentally check out for a moment and re-fortify your body – especially when enjoyed in Seattle’s South Lake Union neighborhood where chefs have taken their lunch game to the next level.
In the land dominated by Amazonians and Facebook-gurus, lunch is a far cry from baloney sandwiches on white bread. From dressed up pizza and authentic Mexican tacos to Mediterranean street food and out of this world burgers, these South Lake Union eateries are throwing down some tasty plates.
Sure, traffic is historically terrible at the southern tip of the lake. But, the terrain is relatively flat and with our Lake Union terminal as your home base, walking to lunch is a breeze. So, between a Seattle Scenic Flight Tour and an afternoon at MOHAI, take a stroll to one of the best lunch spots in South Lake Union. You won’t regret it.
*Walking times are all approximations based on leaving from our Lake Union terminal.
Born from a desire to bring authentic Mexican tacos to Seattle and founded in an obscure second-story Capitol Hill hole-in-the-wall, Taco Chuckis in South Lake Union has taken their game to the next level. Dishing up their same flavor-packed selection of tacos, baby burritos and tortas for cheap, their Dexter destination is anything but shabby. Located just a two-block walk from our Lake Union terminal, this staff favorite sports an open kitchen and trendy wood tables. Of particular note are the pork tacos, topped with the house-made avocado salsa and a delightfully tangy-sweet slice of pineapple.
There are pizza joints in Seattle. And then there’s Ballard Pizza Company, another Ethan Stowell addition to the Seattle food scene. Here, slices take on a mind of their own with toppings ranging from traditional prosciutto and tomato sauce to egg and parmigiana. The really daring go for ‘The Big Moses’ – a chef’s choice concoction that typically features whatever’s freshest.
Pssss….Don’t forget to book your Seattle Scenic Seaplane Tour in advance. Flights sell out quickly!
The menu’s not overly intense. It doesn’t need to be. You come to South Lake Union’s Bar Harbor for the rolls. And the rolls don’t disappoint. Your choice of protein (Maine lobster, Oregon bay shrimp or Dungeness crab) is served in a split-top white roll for a handheld seafood monstrosity that might make you think you’re on the east coast. Your filling is tossed in your choice of mayo (Maine Style), clarified butter (those Connecticut folks are onto something) or a bright mix of mayo, celery and chive (like the do in New England).
Starters range from Dungeness crab stuffed eggs to house-pickled seasonal veggies. Salad lovers will rejoice over the Crab & Kale Caesar, uniquely adorned with roasted beets. And those who have discovered the creamy joy of all things Burrata, will go gaga over the tangy combo of artichoke puree and sweet onion.
This classic soup, sandwich, and salad joint isn’t going to help you pinch pennies. But if you’re looking for killer sandwiches made from impeccably fresh and sustainably-sourced ingredients, Homegrown is the place for you. The new menu includes a smoked pastrami with caramelized onions; thinly sliced steak with blue cheese (it’s exquisite); and a turkey, bacon, and avocado with roasted garlic aioli; and an inventive wasabi-infused chicken salad bowl that’s loaded with flavors and textures.
Carb lovers rejoice. Serious Pie & Biscuit is all about the dough. Their crust goes through a 3-day cold rise. Their biscuits are packed with butter. This Tom Douglas mainstay might not specialize in regional flavors from around the globe, but it does American comfort food in a way that’ll make you sigh for a nap. The menu can change seasonally, but right now we’re particularly fans of the fried green tomato and bacon biscuit and the lamb sausage pie with parsnip cream and rapini.
From the masterminds of Seattle’s beloved Mamnoon, this casual offshoot is dishing up the same homemade pita falafel wraps and spicy cilantro fries we’ve come to love. In the dip department, you can’t go wrong with the Shamandar Bi Tahini, a grated beet and yogurt bowl that’ll knock your socks off. The baba ghanoush is always delightful. And, if you’re a fan of traditional za’atar (a Middle Eastern spice blend that’s hard to find in its traditional form here in the Emerald City) – order the Za’atar wrap. Trust us. It’s exquisite.
What began as an experiment in excess has evolved into an eclectic (some might say kitschy) burger joint high on energy and big on portions. While the classic pickle, onion, and cheese layered patty is on the menu – loyal fans often come for the more untraditional combinations such as The Dork – where duck, pork, and a secret meat create a savory treat unlike anything else you’ll find. Of course, a Seattle burger joint wouldn’t be complete without a nod to Dick’s, but we’re particularly partial to the Burger of the Gods – a blue cheese and candied onion burger that’ll make your entire week.
What began as a food truck known for its bacon jam and gravy-loaded hand-cut fries (aka poutine) has evolved into a series of brick-and-mortar classic dinners scattered throughout the city. It. Is. Awesome.
You can get the classic bacon jam and blue cheese burger from the Skillet’s humble four-wheeled origins. But you can also get hearty kale salads topped with fried chicken thighs and meatloaf with seasonal veggies. Breakfast here is an all-day thing, so if you’re getting a late start you can’t go wrong with the fried chicken and waffles (the optional two eggs are delightful) or ‘The Chub” a bacon-brie-egg breakfast sandwich smothered bacon jam.
If Mediterranean food is your thing, Eggs and Plants is a must. This vegetarian breakfast and lunch destination features big, bold flavors. While you can’t go wrong with anything off their minimal menu, their fries are a sure winner. Delightfully seasoned and crispy, they’re perfect on their own or dipped in some smooth tahini-packed hummus.
Book Your Seattle Scenic Seaplane Tour
There’s flying. And then there’s flying in a seaplane. Expansive skies, superlative views, and a front row seat to the controls await the adventure-hungry traveler aboard a San Juan Islands Seaplane Ride-Along.
It’s a morning to remember when you pretzel your 6-foot frame into the copilot seat of a de Havilland Beaver. (Don’t worry. There’s plenty of room in the footwell for both legs and feet once you’re in.)
The smell of old leather. The well-loved instrument panel. The rumble of the de Havilland Beaver’s radial engine as it taxis from the dock. It’s a thrill that crescendos with a takeoff over Seattle’s historic Gas Works Park and continues as the snowcapped mountains to the north, east, and west unfold around you.
Flying at roughly 100 knots, flight time to the San Juans averages 45-minutes. Depending on the weather conditions, your pilot may take you as low as 500 feet. (This is a particular treat, as the breathtaking views of the coastline are unlike anything you’ll see aboard a large airline.)
Generally, you’ll skim the skies at 1,000 – 1,500 feet. Beneath you, the coast beneath is speckled with lighthouses and rocky shores. The waterways act as a highway for ferry boats and cargo ships.
‘Smith Island’ by Tara Brown Photography
Be sure to keep an eye out for Smith Island, located in the eastern section of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The bell-shaped plot of land is a part of the San Juan Island National Wildlife Refuge. It serves as an important habitat for seabirds.
The steeped bluffs of the island have gradually eroded. They have fallen into the ocean – including the island’s original lighthouse which clung precariously to the bluff during the 1980s until the spring of 1998.
Destinations throughout the San Juans can range wildly. That’s just life for a Kenmore Air pilot. They never know where they’re flying until the day before, at the earliest. The ride-along may include one stop.
Or your trip (like mine), could include drop-offs at San Juan Island’s Friday Harbor and Orcas Island’s West Sound. It might conclude with a repositioning flight to Lopez Island’s Fisherman Bay for a pickup and then a stunning trip back to Seattle.
For some copilots, you might be treated to an up and back to the historic Roche Harbor or the ever-elegant Rosario Resort. Regardless of the destination, it’s sure to be stunning.
Book your San Juan Islands Ride-Along
Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the aviation enthusiasts in your life? We’ve put together our favorites. From gift certificates and graphic Tees to scenic tours and flight instruction, there’s something for every avgeek in your life!
There is no better way to discover the unique freedom of flying a seaplane, than getting your hands around the yoke. And, that’s exactly what you get to experience as part of the Flight Instruction Program at Kenmore Air.
We offer initial as well as advanced training in the world’s most popular and proven seaplanes such as the Piper SuperCub, Cessna 180, and legendary de Havilland Beaver. (Students must have their pilots license.)
Learn More About Flight Instruction at Kenmore Air.
What’s it like to be a Kenmore Air seaplane pilot? You can find out first hand. Our San Juan Islands Ride Along tour is approximately 2 hours. It includes two or more takeoffs and landings aboard a de Havilland Beaver or de Havilland Otter seaplane.
(The plane and route are determined by the daily schedule.)
Book Your San Juan Islands Ride Along
Not exactly sure what your loved one wants? A gift certificate can be applied to any future Kenmore Air purchase!
Our popular ‘Fly Radial’ graphic t-shirt celebrates the classic radial engine seen on many of our de Havilland Beavers.
This once in a lifetime scenic flight tour flies your face-to-face with two world wonders – Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens. You’ll get up close and personal with Rainier’s 25 glaciers – the largest collection of permanent ice on a single US mountain south of Alaska.
From your window seat aboard our 10-passenger Caravan wheel-plane, you’ll also have the perfect vantage of Mount St. Helens’ 2-mile wide crater. Make sure to look closely…. she’s often steaming.
The stylish Logo Sweatshirt is your new favorite piece of clothing and a fantastic way to show off your love of aviation. Ideal for those chilly mornings on the dock, it’s cozy, comfortable, and super soft.
The ultimate stocking stuffer, our Wings pin can be added to bags, shirts, coats and more!
From your thrilling Lake Union takeoff to your gentle landing by the Museum of History and Industry, you’ll be treated to a rare bird’s eye view of Seattle and the surrounding area.
Everyone gets a window seat on this narrated 20-minute sightseeing flight over the Seattle metropolitan area. You’ll see Lake Union’s famous houseboat communities, the beautiful University of Washington campus, Seattle’s professional sports stadiums and the dramatic downtown skyline on bustling Elliott Bay.
Few things put the happy in ‘Happy Holidays’ like small-town charm. From tree lightings and artisan fairs to holidays concerts and festivals, Christmas in the San Juan Islands abounds with things to do. These are some of our favorites.
Located in quaint Friday Harbor, WaterWorks Gallery is a contemporary light-filled space. The gallery features artists from the San Juan Islands and throughout Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia.
During the 2017 holiday season, this local boutique is featuring a special show of unique gifts perfect for friends and loved one. The selection includes jewelry, ornaments, paintings, and sculptures.
Once the turkey’s been eaten and the leftovers stored, Lopez islanders gather to celebrate the start of Christmas. This annual event features a torch light parade, caroling, and the lighting of lights at Lopez Village. Food is provided by local businesses and warm clothing is strongly recommended.
For nearly 20 years, the Olga Symphony has celebrated the season with a musical extravaganza. This year’s performances will feature the guitar, fiddle, bass, banjo, mandolin, saw, and of course – vocals.
For the 39th year, the best artists from San Juan Island will gather at the Friday Harbor Elementary School to share their work. Selections range from soaps, lotions, and island-made food to jewelry, paintings, and clothes.
Local caterer Paella will be providing snacks. And, proceeds will benefit the Island Artisans Scholarship Fund.
Held at the Orcas Senior Center, the Holiday Arts Festival on Orcas Island features hand-crafted works from artists throughout the region.
From gift shopping to live music, the 38th annual Lopez Pre-School Holiday Bazaar is holiday festivities are its best. 70 vendors are planning to attend. A special children’s corner will be set up with crafts and games. Raffle prizes will be distributed throughout the day. And, a bake sale will feature a variety of tasty treats!
This magical Friday Harbor holiday celebration has become a favorite for those near and far. It features Santa pictures at Brickworks, crafts at the Whale Museum, and hot chocolate at the Riptide Café. Plus, there will be caroling, treats, and – of course – the tree lighting!
Orcas Island locals and visitors will kick off the holidays with a healthy dose of small-town fun at the Eastsound Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in attendance. Live music will be playing. Hot cider and cookies will be served. And of course, the tree will be lit!
Step back in time. Experience a magical European-style Christmas at the Friday Harbor Winterfest. Held at Brickworks, you’ll have the chance to savor homemade soup, homemade mac and cheese, and freshly baked bread. Activities will be available for the little ones. Life holiday music will abound. A spirits garden will be open. And, local artisans will be showing off their wares.
Visiting the San Juan Islands in December? This is a can’t miss event. The old-world elegance of Moran Mansion will once again welcome the festive charm of Christmas Trees during Orcas Island’s annual Festival of Trees. Seven local non-profits will decorate a tree. For just a $1 per ticket, visitors will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite tree. Proceeds will benefit participating organizations.
While you can visit and vote throughout the month of December, a special Open House will be held December 8 through December 10, featuring complimentary hot apple cider and cookies.
For the last 55 years, the annual Holiday Silver Tea has been a beloved tradition for Orcas Island residents and visitors alike. Held at the Orcas Island Public Library, this festive event features cookies, sandwiches, local music talent, and tea! Santa and Mrs. Claus will be stopping by to say hello. And, of course, your favorite librarians will also be in attendance.
Featuring 40 local vendors, this annual artisan fair offers a celebratory opportunity to shop for holiday gifts. Featuring 40 local vendors from throughout the San Juan Islands, you’ll find a wide range of carefully crafted items including: jewelry, clothing, body care products, ceramic and textile products, gourmet baked and much more. A special lunch will be provided at the Odd Fellows restaurant, located downstairs.
Local Craft Vendors will gather to show off their artistic talents at this fun annual holiday craft fair. Come join in the Holiday spirit and accomplish your Holiday shopping.
We all have the power to become kinder, wiser, and more generous. That’s the powerful message of A Christmas Carol. The inspiring performances will feature uplifting music, the story of Scrooge, and lots of laughs.
It wouldn’t be Christmas without the Nutcracker. Presented by the Salish Sea Ballet, this world-famous holiday classic will delight those of all ages. Showcasing an original ballet choreography, the performance has been designed to celebrate San Juan Island’s culture while staying true to the Nutcracker’s classical roots.
As the clock strikes midnight on Christmas Eve, Marie’s wooden nutcracker on Orcas Island transforms into a prince. This Christmas classic ballet is a timeless story filled with enchantment and magic – featuring lively music and inspiring choreography.
Winter songs and holiday carols will abound as the San Juan Island Community chorus celebrates Christmas. Held at the San Juan Community Theater, anthems and poems will also be performed.
If you’re San Juan bound, don’t miss your chance to snap a selfie by these epic lookouts, historic sites, and cute creatures!
With its craftsman style exterior and 1,972 pipe organ, Rosario Resort has often been praised for its old-world elegance. But since 2016, Raymond Southern took over the kitchen and the buzz surrounding this historic site has been a bit more edible.
Can’t you just imagine Rory and Lorelai relishing the quaint island getaway the is Friday Harbor? The Gilmore Girls would indeed nibbling (or gobble) their way through it.
There’s nothing quite like shopping in the big city where flagship stores and high-end boutiques abound. Sure, Seattle’s bustling metropolis doesn’t have the same reputation as New York’s shop-till-you-drop atmosphere. But really, isn’t one urban jungle enough?
Here, in a city where fashion is in the eye of the wearer, you can peruse to your heart’s content without being overwhelmed. Whether you’re arriving by wheeled plane (for which this itinerary is specifically designed) or by seaplane, this itinerary will take you to some of Seattle’s best spots to shop and eat.
9:00 AM – Breakfast at Wandering Goose
Tucked among Seattle’s bustling neighborhoods are micro communities – city blocks and single storefronts where locals gather. Here neighborhoods blossom and restaurants thrive. While Capitol Hill is better known for its eclectic and edgy stretch of Broadway, 15th Ave. – located just a few blocks east – is a slower, definitely cleaner and more upscale option. It’s also home to Wandering Goose, a charming restaurant where church pews line the walls and lampshades are made from flour sacks. If the nursery rhymes carved into the tabletops aren’t enough to make you swoon, the food certainly will. While a collection of biscuit sandwiches may seem tempting, it’s the cast-iron plated hash options that demand attention. Topped with a poached egg, these brisket and veggie (Bubble & Squeek) or fried oyster and cured pork belly (Hangtown Fry) are comfort food that stops just short of making you want to crawl back into bed.
10:30 – Shop. Shop. Shop.
Head to Downtown Seattle where quaint boutiques are speckled among large department stores. For oodles of high-end fashion, Nordstrom carries it all with its massive city block footprint and five levels of shopping options. Flanked to the east by Pacific Place and to the west by Westlake Center, this three-block stretch along Pine St. serves as Seattle’s shopping hub. But, the plethora of options doesn’t stop there. Nearby you’ll find Niketown, Anthropologie, AllSaints and more. (The walk from breakfast is just shy of 40 minutes, but it’s all downhill. Or, you could hop on the 10 – Seattle’s Metro line which runs right past Wandering Goose. Additionally, see the “Getting Around” suggestions below.)
1:00 – Refuel
Shopping is hard work. The picking. The choosing. The trying on and trying off of clothes. While our love for elegant dresses and handsome shoes have certainly been honed over the years, nothing quite speaks to our baser instincts like the sight of meat over a roaring fire. Perhaps that’s why we breathe a little easier when we walk into chef Jason Wilson’s new Miller’s Guild and stand face-to-face with his custom-built, nine-foot Grillworks Infierno grill. Its warmth soothes our souls. So too do the wood floor and the lofted ceiling, lowered with soft dangling lights. Wilson’s hearty American fare focuses on nose-to-tail butchery with slowly braised meats and fire-roasted vegetables. The cheese packed grits and fried Brussels sprouts aren’t anything at which to sneeze either (when they’re on the menu).
2:00 – Shop. A little more.
4:00 – Rest
Take a load off. You deserve it. Oliver’s Lounge – located at the Mayflower Park Hotel – is tucked in the backside of Westlake Center. Its casual and friendly demeanor is just the thing after a hustle-bustle day filled with trips to the of dressing room.
5:00 PM – Make Your Way Back to Boeing Field
The day may be over, but the adventure’s not! Head back to Boeing Field* and enjoy your scenic flight back home.
Getting Around
This walking itinerary is designed as a leg-stretching adventure. However, getting to and from downtown definitely requires a little help. From Boeing Field you can catch a cab or order an Uber car. Uber’s easy to use smartphone app is quick, reliable and affordable.
*You must be present and checked-in for all international flights 45-minutes prior to departure.
