Holiday flights to Victoria, B.C. from $199 pp/ow! Book your flight!
Victoria’s small and intimate pedestrian paths have preserved bits of the city’s past. Unlike a city’s major thoroughfares that are typically renovated by the demand of progress, alleys have a way of preserving the past. The narrow, pedestrian-only passageways hold onto their intimate storefronts and leisurely culture. They beckon the outdoor dining parties, strolling lovers, and adventuresome tourists — especially in Victoria.
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Raindrops keep falling on our heads, but there are plenty of cozy, fun things to do this February thanks to Seattle’s annual Museum Month. From kid-centered exhibits to libation-pouring game hubs and everything in between — discover our favorite museums in Seattle and beyond!
When it comes to romance, nothing says you’re important more than undivided attention. A romantic San Juan Island getaway is the perfect opportunity to savor a moment just the two of you.
Because there’s something special about getting beyond the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Something magical about checking the pressures of work at the dock, forgetting about the laundry, and letting the sitter handle the kids.
So block out some time on the calendar and use these tips to make the most of your romantic San Juan Island getaway!
Have you thought about your travel bucket list? A new year is the perfect time to re-visit and maybe re-map yours with some unique Pacific Northwest travel ideas.
Because while you may have visited Victoria, the San Juan Islands, Vancouver, and Seattle — have you actually seen and done everything? Chances are, there are quite a few unique Pacific Northwest travel ideas that you haven’t yet explored.
From off-grid fishing adventures and inspiring day-trips to food-filled dining experiences and seaplane-inspired gear, discover the best gifts for travel lovers.
Don’t assume the only way to spoil your favorite travel enthusiasts is with an all-expenses paid trip to Paris. There are tons of amazing experiences right here in the Pacific Northwest. Gather inspiration from this collection of Seattle-based day trips, epic guided tours, inspiring remote destination getaways, and more!
Images, videos, and stories pale in comparison to seeing a wild orca breach in front of the bow of your boat. And, there’s no better place to go whale watching than in the San Juan Islands. Catch a 45-minute scenic flight to Friday Harbor, where San Juan Safaris will take you on a whale watching adventure you’ll never forget.
The Butchart Garden’s 55-acre grounds are a sprawling burst of color and life. Separated into uniquely themed displays, it feels as though you’re wandering from world to world as you explore. The Sunken Garden looks like it might have been pulled from the movie ‘Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon.’ The Rose Garden appears to be preserved from the Elizabethan era. And, in the Japanese Garden there’s an overwhelming sense of calm.
From the dock-side departure and thrilling takeoff to the incredible views of Seattle and water-landing – Seattle Scenic Seaplane Tours are filled with excitement and beauty. The narrated flight might take you over Seattle’s beloved houseboat community, our city’s professional sports stadiums, and the beloved University of Washington.
Perfect for everyone from the beginner to the experienced kayaker, Evergreen Escape’s all-day San Juan kayaking excursions are lead by an experienced naturalist. Throughout the day they’ll share tidbits about the islands’ history, natural habitat, and beautiful creatures you’ll see.
Locally brewed goodness. That’s what you’ll find at the Island Hoppin’ Brewery. Founded by three Orcas Island natives, this island hot spot features full-flavored beers, tasty bites, and an inside look at the brewing process.
Located on Lummi Island, the Willows Inn has been touted as America’s truest destination restaurant. Its constantly changing menu is inspired by seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. You might find black cod smoked and transformed into doughnuts. Cold soup could be paired with grilled flowers. Crab may be soaked in pine nut milk; mussels paired with sunflower roots; and aged, wild venison leg roasted to perfection. This isn’t an all-the-time kind of dinner joint. This is a special celebration destination where you’ll savor every bite.
Semiahmoo seems to be sliced from a different era – a time when folks moved a little slower and savored the moment just a bit more. Perhaps that’s why this idyllic destination is one of our favorites. Home to a beautiful golf course – featuring epic views – it’s the perfect getaway for a leisurely round. It also happens to have some great food, so make sure to schedule enough time to grab a bite.
From cozy graphic sweatshirts to seaplane-themed t-shirts, give your travel-loving enthusiast a wearable reminder of a great trip!
There’s fishing. And then there’s fishing in the BC Islands. This is an experience you’re not soon to forget – complete with ocean-to-table cuisine, epic views, and incredibly experienced guides.
Explore San Juan Island on your own schedule with a leisurely moped ride. Visit Lime Kiln State Park to do some land-based whale watching. Stop by the Pelinda Lavender Farm to soak in the relaxing scent of lavender. You also might want to drop by the alpaca farm, Roche Harbor’s Lime Kiln Café, and the San Juan Island winery.
Tea at the Fairmont Empress is old-world elegance at its finest. Served in the sophisticated Lobby Lounge since 1908, it features the Empress’ own blend of expertly steeped tea and a large selection of small bites.
Whether you have a big DSLR or a sleek smartphone, this photo walk will give you plenty of opportunities to snap some amazing pictures. Fly up for the day. Explore the city. Stop for a bite. And, capture the experience each moment in a farmable picture.
You don’t have to leave Seattle to go on an adventure. This city is full of epic urban hikes that feature stunning views, great spots to grab some grub, and not-so-well-known gems to enjoy a moment of solitude.
Travel to Victoria by sea and come back by air for the best of both worlds. Partnering with the Victoria Clipper, we offer Sea & Sky packages. Available as a day trip or an extended stay, you’ll be able to view the trip from more than one beautiful angle.
What’s life like for a seaplane pilot? Find out on a San Juan Islands Ride-Along. This fabulous adventure takes you up to the San Juan Islands and back. You may even be able to score the copilot seat! There’s no better view than the copilot’s seat. But with most airlines, you don’t get to ride shotgun. Book one of our San Juan Scenic Flights to get a taste of what it’s like to be one of our pilots!
If there was a summer camp for grownups, it would be called the West Coast Wilderness Lodge. Located in the BC Islands, this remote destination is tucked among the wilderness. It offers a wide variety of activities (including hiking, kayaking, and martini making), a restaurant worthy of world-renowned praise, and comfy beds you won’t want to leave.
Destination Dinners with Pretty Fork have fused travel, intrigue, and great cuisine. You never know where you’re headed, what you’ll see or what you’ll eat. But one thing’s certain – these trips won’t disappoint!
Escape the hustle and bustle with a relaxing getaway and discover that there are a plethora of fun things to do this winter in the San Juan Islands.
Winter is known as the ‘slow season’ in the San Juan Islands. And while the potential for a winter storm may leave you hesitant to visit, this quaint region still has their welcome mat rolled out. In fact, winter can be one of the best times to plan your San Juan Islands getaway.
During the winter, you’ll have the hiking trails mostly to yourself. Shop owners have the freedom to linger and talk. Indulge in a spa date. Savor local wines. And, spend time outdoors without worrying about freezing temperatures — the San Juans have an average daily temp of 46-48 degrees December through January!
One of the beauties of winter is how quiet and serene the local parks tend to be. It’s the perfect time to stroll at your own pace through the wind-swept grasslands on San Juan Island’s South Beach Hiking Trail. Visit Cascade Falls on Orcas Island to see how the water roars thanks to the late-season drizzle. Or explore one of these fabulous San Juan Island day hikes.
Throughout the San Juan Islands you’ll notice the rocky beaches are strewn with massive old-growth forest driftwood. Locals and visitors will often use these logs to construct rudimentary beach huts or makeshift chairs. The wood is also a reminder of the dramatic storms that crash onto the shores, as the waves bring the massive pieces from the ocean’s depth. A winter storm is a stunning sight to behold — especially if you select a hotel or resort with a waterfront view!
Want to give your feet a rest? Consider a trail ride on a beautiful horse through the quiet forests. Horseshu Ranch offers riding lessons and scenic forest trail rides, providing the perfect winter activity.
In the heart of Eastsound, Orcas Island native, Cole Sisson and his wife Stephanie run Doe Bay Wine Co. The quaint wine shop offers an exquisite collection of carefully curated wine. The couple also frequently offers wine tastings — a guided exploration of their favorite picks that day.
Founded in 1967 to study the region’s beloved Southern Resident orcas, The Whale Museum is located in downtown Friday Harbor. It overlooks the marina, capitalizing on the view with a porthole window and binoculars. While visiting, you’ll also be able to learn about many of the other local inhabitants like seals and grey whales.
Rosario Resort’s historic Moran Mansion is beautiful in its own right. But it’s made even more so by the 1913 Aeolian pipe organ and 1900 Steinway grand piano. Saturdays during the winter discover the musical prowess of these two beautiful instruments during a free concert. Concerts are led by accomplished musician, author, and Rosario historian, Christian Peacock. They include both musical performances and a historic narrative.
Lopez Island is fondly known as ‘Slowpez,’ thanks to its leisurely pace — even by island standards. For bikers, the gently rolling topography and stunning water-front roads offer the ideal place for a ride.
This brilliant Harry Potter-inspired attraction is a fun and interactive 60-minute test of your wits. Participants enter the escape room in groups of four and use their problem-solving skills to answer riddles and find clues that will help them unlock their own escape!
The San Juan Islands Museum of Art (SJIMA) features rotating exhibitions in its three galleries. The theme of the exhibitions can range widely — allowing you to immerse yourself within regional and world-wide art that inspires you to think beyond yourself.
Tucked in a non-descript section of Lopez Village, the tiny Japanese eatery Setsunai is dishing up hearty bowls of ramen year-round. It’s not the kind of hearty goodness you would expect to find in a region where seafood rules, but the made-to-order bowls are out of this world.
Want your island getaway to include some lively fun? Make sure to stop by Orcas Island’s The Lower Tavern on Friday nights where locals and visitors gather for a lively round of karaoke.
While dinner out and a dozen roses are nice, a quiet getaway is the ultimate in perfection. And, there’s no better place to cuddle up with your someone special than in the San Juans!
In a variety of delectable flavors and sizes, Brown Bear Baking on Orcas Island serves pastries worthy of praise.
Love solving puzzles and riddles? Test your wits at Elusion — Orcas Island’s escape room, where you’ll have to solve your way to freedom.
There’s more to Rosario Resort than its picturesque setting. Moran Mansion is home to both a 1913 Aeolian pipe organ and a 1900 Steinway grand piano, where free public concerts are regularly offered.
The day after Thanksgiving, many individuals are racing to get in like for the best deals. They’re dealing with elbows and cranky shoppers. But you, you can do things differently. Because why spend the day off cramped, crowded, and wishing you’d just stayed home when you could make the day a continued celebration of gratitude?
This year, skip the crazy. Use the following Black Friday alternatives to shopping in Seattle to make the most of your day. Each family-friendly activity offers a fun and exciting way to savor the season.
Bundle up and explore Seattle’s quaint neighborhoods on a DIY urban hiking tour. Bring your fur baby on a dog-friendly loop around Lake Union. Climb North Capitol Hill. Or, make your way to Kerry Park, one of the city’s most iconic viewpoints.
Soar over the crowds on a Seattle Scenic Flight Tour and take in the city like you’ve never seen it before.
Victoria was named Canada’s brunch capital thanks in large part to its impressive selection of eggs Benedict (known to Victoria locals as ‘Bennies’). Catch a quick flight to the northern gem to savor brunch in style. Discover our favorite eggs Benedict destinations.
With its windswept grasslands and breathtaking views, the San Juan Islands are filled with fabulous hiking trails. Discover five of our favorite on San Juan Island.
San Juan Island is rich with great scenery, both ashore and at sea. And with its temperate climate, it’s the perfect place to hike year-round.
Here the borders are oceans and the dress code is casual—think fleece, jeans and Birkenstocks—rests a constantly changing archipelago. Depending on the tide, as many as 743 islands and reefs dot the water throughout the San Juan Islands. The ebb and flow of the landscape adds to the mystic of this sunny destination.
Located in the Olympic Mountain Rain Shadow, the San Juans are graced with an average 250 days with sunshine. Hiking here is glorious, especially on San Juan Island. The terrain varies from lush forest and rolling prairie to rocky beaches and steep cliffs. The island’s coastline and peaks feature breathtaking views of the snowcapped Olympic Mountains, old growth forests, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca’s expansive waterway.
The habitats are untouched and home to a wide variety of wildlife. Bird watching here is a favorite. You might witness eagles mating, swallows feeding their young or an osprey perched on its nest. The star attraction is the killer whale. And while there are many options for whale watching tours, there’s at least one land-based hike that rivals many on-the-water experiences. So depending on what you want from your day hike experience—stunning views, unspoiled nature or up close wildlife— San Juan Island likely offers it. This is largely thanks to the death of a pig.
The large stretches of undeveloped coastline on San Juan Island can be attributed to an 1859 pig slaying. It nearly resulted in an American-British war. In response to the dispute, both the Americans and the English established encampments on the island’s prime lookouts. Today, the two locales are known as American Camp and English Camp. Each is home to historic remnants, such as garrisons and graveyards, of their former inhabitants. In 2013, the United States recognized the expansive stretch of both camps (and several other locations throughout the San Juan Islands) as a national monument, thus further preserving the coastline for future generations. Encompassing a total of 955 acres, the monument spans as far north as Patos Island and is known as the San Juan Islands National Monument. It is here that many of the island’s best hikes are found.
At San Juan Island’s southernmost tip, Cattle Point Lighthouse offers sweeping views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. This iconic structure was completed in 1935, but a navigational beacon has stood on the glacier-scraped rock since 1888.
It’s named after the cattle that roamed the point’s rocky grassland in 1853. They were brought by when the Hudson’s Bay Company which established a ranch on the south end of the island to feed its employees. The trail winds through windswept grassy dunes and culminates at the lighthouse. Look for blacktail deer, eagles, seals, and sea lions.
Open from dawn to dusk, trail maps are available at the San Juan Island National Historical Park visitor center.
Roughly half a mile roundtrip, the Afterglow Vista trail winds through an old cemetery. Its gentle ascent culminates in a massive mausoleum, the final resting place of the McMillin family. (The mausoleum was designed by the family’s patriarch, John S. McMillin, who founded Roche Harbor Lime and Cement Company in 1886.)
After walking through the cemetery you’ll eventually reach the McMillin mausoleum, now referred to as Roche Harbor Mausoleum. The mausoleum is marked by a high arching gate labeled, “Afterglow Vista.” Just beyond its border is the McMillin family tomb encircled by massive pillars. At its center, limestone chairs surround a large limestone table. Each seat holds the cremated ashes of a McMillin family member. The location is rumored to be haunted. Don’t worry.
The trail is only open dawn to dusk. Trail maps are available at the resort’s Hotel de Haro.
As a sequel to your Cattle Point Lighthouse jaunt, the 3½-mile Mount Finlayson trail offers an overlooking view of the lighthouse and its sweeping grasslands. The 285-foot elevation gain begins gently with a forest of wind-defying twisted firs on your left. On your right, the majestic Olympic Mountain Range takes center stage.
It was here an American shot and killed a Hudson’s Bay pig, which was rooting in his garden. This event triggered the infamous Pig War between the British and United States that never did take place. Keep an eye out while you hike.
This is one of the island’s best bird watching locations. Frequent visitors include eagles, plovers, sandpipers, and hawks. The trail is open from dawn to dusk.
If you find yourself on San Juan Island with a desire to spot an Orca, the short hike on Lime Kiln State Park is a must stop. This is generally recognized as one of the best land-based whale watching locations in the world. While most folks visit for the whales, the park’s namesake—a wood-fired kiln located at its northern edge—shouldn’t be overlooked.
The trail, totaling 1¼ miles, begins at the park’s lower parking lot. Follow the signs to the lighthouse for a chance to see orcas at play. The trail leads you through large grassy meadows interspersed with evergreens and madrona trees. It takes you over rocky bluffs, offering glimpses of the sandy shoreline below. Ultimately, it brings you to the lighthouse, which sits atop Lime Kiln Point, a rocky outcropping overlooking Dead Man’s Bay on San Juan Island. Established in 1919, the lighthouse is still in operation guiding ships through Haro Strait. Spend some time with a good pair of binoculars looking for whales. And, don’t be surprised when the whales pass close to shore. Eventually, you’ll want to follow the trail north to the kiln. A set of steep stairs leads to the kiln’s base, offering you a closer look.
The park is open from 8 am to dusk. For additional information, visit the park’s interpretive center located by the parking lot.
Young Hill’s 650-foot crest is English Camp’s crown jewel. It offers a grand view of Haro Straight and the placid waters surrounding Bell Point.
The two-mile roundtrip hike begins at the large English Camp parking area. Take the gentle climb east through a Doug-fir and madrona forest. After the switchback, you’ll emerge at the edge of a grassy ledge. There, Victoria and the Gulf Islands will spill out before you. It is recommended you explore English Camp to learn about its history, why it was created, and its historical role in the relationship between England and the United States. Here, you’ll also be treated to some of the island’s most incredible views.
The trail is open from dawn to 11 pm. For additional information and a trail map, visit the English Camp Visitor Center during the summer months.
Stunning views and fewer crowds make Turtleback Mountain a fabulous alternative to the sometimes-crowded hikes at Orcas Island’s Moran State Park.
Spanning 1,578 acres, Turtleback Mountain Preserve is a newer addition to the island’s trails. It was originally owned by the Chairman of the Weyerhaeuser company. But in 2006 it was purchased by a group of conservation groups including the San Juan Preservation Trust.
Since then, a relatively primitive trail system has been developed totally more than 8 miles of trails and two trailheads. The two sides of the mountain have decidedly different looks. At the north end, former logging roads offer exceptional mountain biking and trail running.
The casual hiker generally prefers the south end, where easy-to-moderate elevation gains and breathtaking views abound — like the 2.9-mile Ship Peak Loop.
Start from the southern parking lot and head through the ravine. After you cross a creek, the trail will split. Head to the left, taking the Lost Oak Trail. (While it’s a loop, this direction allows you to get the steeper climb out of the way first.)
This section will take you under a canopy of Douglas firs, madrones, and Garry oaks. At .7 miles you’ll reach a bench with a viewpoint of West Sound. As you continue climbing the South Trail, you’ll be treated to expanding views of Salt Spring, Lopez, San Juan Island, and the Olympic Mountains.
At 1.2 miles you’ll reach the West Overlook. This was formerly the site of a home, but it’s now outfitted with a bench. During the spring, the grounds around you will be flooded with camas lilies. But year-round, this is a spectacular destination for sunsets.
Continue along the trail, gradually descending to a signed junction. Wander through the mature forest, past an old fence and several trees before taking the steep descend into a thick forest. Continuing on, you’ll come to the original junction. Stay to the left to reach the trailhead.
From how to get around the city to where to grab a gameday pint, maximize your visit to the Emerald City with these 12th Man travel tips!
One official gameday at the Clink and you’ll understand why there’s nothing like cheering live with 12th Man. The noise. The energy. The excitement. Whether you’re an avid Hawks fan or an NFL newbie, it’s electric!
Get an up close and personal look at behind the scenes areas and views throughout CenturyLink field during a public tour. Available year-round, tours last roughly an hour and a half. Times can vary and tours can sell out fast, so be sure to book yours early. For Canadian travelers, the easiest way to do book is through ticketmaster.com.
There’s nothing quite like getting the lay of the land from overhead. And one of the best ways to do so is with a Seattle Scenic Flight Tour. This 20-minute narrated scenic flight tour will take you over some of Seattle’s most iconic landmarks — including CenturyLink Field! Alternatively, Sky View Observatory on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center offers the highest public viewpoint in Seattle — including a direct line of sight into the Clink.
From interactive game games and contests to live cover bands and Instagram-worthy backdrops, Touchdown City offers a variety of fun pregame experiences. A free event, you’ll have the chance to snag autographs from the Sea Gals, snap a photo with Boom, the team mascot and more!
Stock up on your official game day gear! There are four Seahawks Pro Shops located throughout the Seattle area, including the main hub at CenturyLink Field. Plus, you’ll find other retail shops selling a variety of Hawks gear throughout the area.
You might have lovingly stitched a Hawks head purse, but save that piece for another day. Like most stadiums, CenturyLink Field has a strict clear bag only policy. Check to make sure your clear bag fits within their sizing allowance.
While seasoned fans will tell you that Seattle’s rainy disposition tends to clear for kick-off, this is by no means guaranteed. And, you’ll enjoy the pregame, live action, and post-game much more if you’re dry! So be sure to bring a rain jacket just in case!
Don’t come expecting a low-key baseball game-like experience. The 12th Man can get rowdy and loud. Fans tend to stand and cheer throughout the entire game. So while you can sit if you’d like, don’t expect the rest of the stadium to follow suit.
Planned on buying tickets when you arrived, but couldn’t score a seat? Have no fear. There are plenty of places to watch the game live with fellow Twelvers — not the least of which is the Hawks Nest! This bar bleeds green and blue. And located less than a block from the stadium, it means you’re still right in the action!
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.
The Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop features 6+ miles of stunning views, eclectic neighborhoods, and fabulous dog-friendly stops to grab a bite.
Taking a seaplane flight is a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience and Kenmore Air makes it easy to enjoy the unique thrill of flying off the water and soaring over one of the most beautiful regions in the world.
