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Local Secrets, Big Finds - Washington

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Deception Pass
Anacortes

360.293.3832
Connecting Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands, Deception Pass is "a natural passage between two islands." It "just takes your breath away" to watch the tide rush in and create "the most interesting collisions of water currents." Beyond the beauty of the forest and beaches lies the "snow-capped top of Mount Baker." A visit here is not only beautiful, but it is also "soul and spirit renewing."

Fremont Troll under Aurora Bridge
Seattle

Sculpted by four Seattle artists in 1990, at 18 feet high, the Fremont Troll is an unbelievable roadside attraction. It is undoubtedly a "unique, larger-than-life-sized troll under a bridge." It even has a VW bug under its left hand, which "captures the quirky spirit of the artsy, trendy, funky Fremont district." It is situated right under the Aurora Avenue Bridge (also known as the George Washington Bridge).

The Great Outdoor Passion Play
Puyallup

253.848.3411
The Great Outdoor Passion Play
Jesus of Nazareth, "The Great Outdoor Passion Play," is an outdoor performance that unfolds every weekend from late July through August. This religious drama spans the life of Jesus Christ, and the cast and crew of thousands include everything "from horses to camels." The stage at the Puyallup Amphitheatre is set so you experience an "amazing feeling that you are sitting in Jerusalem, back in time. "There are "small-craft airplanes that fly above your head every now and then, reminding you of your place in time." Read more.

Seattle Bike Ride From Alki Bakery
Seattle

206.935.1352
The Alki Bakery is "probably the best in the world, France included." The bakery serves a great breakfast as well as soups, quiches, sandwiches, and salads for lunch. After enjoying an espresso and a pastry or two, you'll be ready to hop on a bike. Most bike shops rent bikes, or you can "buy one at the Goodwill and return it as a donation." The ride from Seattle's waterfront to West Seattle is "easy, and nearly flat." Bike out to where the pioneers landed and look for the "small Statue of Liberty." To be on the safe side, "a bike map may be obtained for free from any public library."

Washington Park Arboretum
Seattle

206.543.8800
The Washington Park Arboretum is a joint venture between the University of Washington and the Center for Urban Horticulture. Comprising 230 acres along the shores of Lake Washington, it is "chock-full of hundreds of different plants, trees, flowers, and fun!" There is a large green space where you can play soccer, as well as "play areas for children." It is a place where you can enjoy nature to "the fullest extent possible." Read more.

Salmon Days
Issaquah

425.392.0661
Every October, Issaquah becomes a "salmon lover's dream" with Salmon Days, an annual celebration of the salmon returning to the lakes, streams, and hatchery. Enjoy two "fun-filled" days that feature a marketplace with 300 artists and their work, a "decadent" Foods of the World "spectacular," races, hatchery tours, a grand parade, and even a salmon-cam! End your salmon-filled weekend with some live entertainment on four different stages and a game of bingo. Read more.

Chateau Ste Michelle Concert Series
Woodinville

425.488.1133
Chateau Ste Michelle Concert Series
Blues, jazz, classical, and contemporary musicians from all over participate in Chateau Ste. Michelle's concert series. The expansive green space is perfect for an outdoor concert on a blanket or in a little chair. Even better, "you can bring your own picnic or choose from fresh, delicious food and fine wine from the winery." The experience is "fun and relaxing," especially if you arrive "an hour or two early to get in line for a good spot." Read more.

Cloud City Coffee Shop
Seattle

206.527.5552
Cloud City Coffee Shop "epitomizes the Seattle coffee scene, in a city with a coffee shop on every corner for as far as the eye can see." This converted garage serves as the local hangout, where the coffee is "great and cheap." The food selection is extensive, "from bagels to sandwiches to quiche;" and the atmosphere is "quintessential Seattle--meaning it's a little grungy." Nevertheless, there's lots of personality here at this community hot spot. Read more.

Balloon Stampede and Winery Open Houses
Walla Walla

509.525.0850
During the second full weekend of May, "balloons go up every morning and evening for three days." The Balloon Stampede and Winery Open Houses "is outstanding, and the nightglow event is beautiful." About 50 wineries are open for tasting, celebrating the release of some of their new vintages. Up to 80 to 100 colorful hot air balloons fill the sky, and there is a "champagne evening, when you can meet the pilots and enjoy tons of booths with food, crafts, and jewelry." Read more.

Chuckanut Drive
Bellingham

Also known as Route 11, Chuckanut Drive is a fantastic alternative to Interstate 5. "This drive has magnificent views of the San Juan Islands and Puget Sound on one side of the road and majestic mountains on the other." It's an "old, two-lane highway" that connects Bellingham to Skagit Valley. Restaurants, shops, and hiking trails are along the roadside--"look for starfish at Larabee State Park, eat at the Rhododendron Cafe, or at the Oyster Bar Restaurant." It is one of the most memorable drives "that showcases the beauty of the Pacific Northwest." Read more.