National Parks are one of America’s most unique treasures—sprawling protected lands that encourage adventure and exploring nature for everyone. Welcome to Joshua Tree, an area of desert wilderness named after the native yucca brevifolia in southeastern California. Winter does bring cooler temperatures, but there’s still quite a bit of sunshine.
Weekend Wanderings
Three weekends left to enjoy river floating in Leavenworth.
I’m sure I’ll look back on this in February and want to kick myself, but I am over the relentless summer heat and blue skies. The nonstop sun has me seeking shade and avoiding going out. Feeling like a summer scrooge, I knew I needed to find an outdoor activity that involved access to water, which is why I jumped on the opportunity to join Sound Excursions for one of their Leavenworth river tubing getaways.
Victoria is one of our favorite summertime destinations. It’s only a three hour ferry ride from Seattle, but the European architectural influence and the relaxed atmosphere makes it feels a world away. Here are the top spots we’d recommend for a weekend trip to Victoria.
It’s wedding season again! Every year, the majority of weddings cluster in late spring to early fall. For those who struggle while all your friends are getting married, you can find laughter and solace in this great tumblr. And for those getting married, it seems more and more common that newlyweds are choosing to delay their honeymoon until later in the year or even the following year.
Lummi Island is part of the San Juan Islands two hours north of Seattle. The entire island is only 9.25 square miles with a population of 822. It’s quiet, pretty, and easy to get to, which makes it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Plus, The Willows Inn has one of the best meals in the state.
Slow Down in SLO CAL.
San Luis Obispo County, California (SLO CAL) is quietly making itself a vacation destination. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, a booming spirits scene, or a quiet day at the spa, SLO CAL has something for the whole family.
Cruising on the Victoria Clipper just got even more fun, thanks to Christmas By the Sea, an inaugural day trip series to Whidbey Island that pushes off from downtown Seattle every weekend this December.
There are certain red-hot destinations where everyone seems to flock these days. Intriguing Iceland is one; beautiful Banff is undoubtedly another. Whether it’s due to our current political climate, an exchange rate greatly favoring American travelers who head north or simply the pressing need to hang out among some of the nicest people on Earth, Canada seems the place to plan your next trip.
Getting on island time is truly a breeze when hopping over to Vashon for the day, weekend or a lengthier stay. Simply board the ferry in West Seattle (by car or bicycle), blink your eyes, and find yourself on a rural isle that’s roughly the size of Manhattan and marked by an artsy, carefree and hippie-tinged personality of its very own. If you only have 24 hours or so to explore Vashon, here are a couple gems you won’t want to miss.
Getting to know this happenin’ zone’s waterside parks + trendsetting patios.
Ask any Vancouver resident their thoughts on Yaletown, a thriving neighborhood along the south side of downtown’s peninsula, and he or she likely has an opinion. Whether it’s a destination for weekend spin classes, a celebratory night on the town or simply enjoying some of the best people-watching around, it’s clear that this chic zone is a place to “see and be seen.”
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