Community Highlights

Bellevue:

Bellevue is known as the high-tech and retail center of the Eastside. Featuring glistening high-rises in a bustling downtown area, this “city in a park” offers residents and visitors many ways to pass the time.

As the fifth largest city in the state, Bellevue spans more than 33 miles between Lake Washington and Lake Sammamish. The downtown area, also known as the central business district, is currently the second largest city center in the state. Bellevue Downtown Park is a 20-acre park with panoramic views of the city’s skyline and Mount Rainier in the background.

Check out the Bellevue Collection, a premier shopping and dining district with over 200 shops and 50 restaurants, just west of I-405. Explore a large selection of global brands, ranging from fashion and décor to tech and more—all in one small hub.

Active residents stay busy with more than a hundred parks and trails, in addition to skate parks, community centers and climbing walls. In the heart of the city, Mercer Slough Nature Park offers a peaceful setting for a variety of recreational activities within the 320-acre wetland preserve.

The Bellevue Botanical Garden is a popular location for tourists and locals alike. This 53-acre community treasure includes cultivated gardens, meadows, natural wetlands and restored woodlands. Just to the east, Kelsey Creek Community Park features 150 acres of forest and marsh, along with a glimpse at the city’s rural past. The historic Fraser Cabin sits on the hill adjacent to the park’s renowned dairy barns.

Bothell:

Bothell is a thriving riverfront community situated in both King and Snohomish counties. This growing city is nestled between Kenmore and Woodinville along State Route 522, which runs parallel to the Sammamish River.

Enjoy a day at the Bothell Landing, a quiet park near downtown with recreational features on both sides of the Sammamish River, linked by an iconic footbridge. The park includes boardwalk trails to lead adventurers through wetlands, as well as kayak rentals to accommodate for peaceful floats down the river.

The Sammamish River Trail follows the lazy river southeast to Woodinville’s wine country, where some of the best Washington wines are available for tasting. Walk, run, skate, bike or even ride a horse through an extensive, scenic greenway that is home to several riverside parks and farms. The 11-mile trail runs from Bothell through Woodinville and into Redmond, and features views of Mount Rainier and the Cascade foothills.

Take in the friendly and inviting charm of downtown Bothell after a football game at Pop Keeney Stadium. Grab a coffee at The Cottage or order a drink at McMenamins Anderson School, a renovated former junior high school that currently operates as a restaurant, bar and hotel.

Bothell is home to Northshore Senior Center, the second largest senior center in the United States with just under 3,000 members. The center offers a variety of support groups and programs, including a range of fitness classes, card games, lifelong learning opportunities and computer classes.

Burien:

Burien is a vibrant and creative community located just east of SeaTac International Airport. Residents embrace diversity, celebrate arts and culture, and treasure the environment.

With over 100 years of rich heritage, the community thrives on well-established neighborhoods and a small-town atmosphere. Housing in Burien ranges from starter homes to high-end residences, as well as condominiums and apartments of all sizes. The city also offers ample options for senior living.

The city hosts cultural arts programs at the Burien Community Center, the Moshier Community Art Center, and throughout the city. Burien is home to many nonprofit arts and culture organizations, including two symphonies, a choral group, theater groups, a heritage museum, dance groups, arts organizations and the 800-seat Highline Performing Arts Center.

The Burien Farmers Market is a community icon among locals and visitors. The market supports small family farms, agricultural producers, crafters and local businesses, while promoting nutritious food for all. A winter market also takes over the Burien Town Square Park during the holiday season with vendors, crafts, hot cocoa and more.

Stop by Burien for the annual Father’s Day Classic Car Show, Strawberry Days, Burien Pride, Olde Burien Block Party, Boulevard Block Party, Movies in the Park, Carnival & Flea Market, and so much more.

This south Seattle suburb includes acres of public parks and trails, in addition to playgrounds, forests and shoreline. Seahurst Park, the highlight of Burien’s park system, features a saltwater beach on Puget Sound with views of the Olympic Mountains. Explore various walking paths and take in the forests, streams, wetlands and marine life.

Des Moines:

Des Moines is a waterfront community with six miles of shoreline and views of Puget Sound, Mount Rainier and the Olympic Mountains. Just two miles from SeaTac International Airport, and located midway between Seattle and Tacoma, this community retains a distinct small-town feel.

The city’s main attraction, Saltwater State Park, delivers a sandy saltwater swimming beachfront on the Puget Sound. Saltwater is the only state park with an underwater artificial reef for scuba diving. Explore tide pools or the seasonal salmon spawning in McSorley Creek.

Des Moines is home to numerous other beaches and public parks on Puget Sound, such as Redondo Beach Pier, Woodmont Park, Des Moines Beach Park and more.

Des Moines Marina is situated right next door to the small-town shopping district. Locals and visitors enjoy strolling across fishing piers and boardwalks as the sun sets behind the Olympic Mountains. The city’s full-service marina on Puget Sound offers moorage for both one-time visitors and long-term tenants.

Highline College, a public community college, was founded in 1961 in Des Moines. The Marine Science and Technology Center (MaST) is located at Redondo Beach Park and is dedicated to expanding knowledge about Puget Sound. The 2,500 square-foot facility includes public space, classrooms, laboratories, offices, research areas and an aquarium.

CWU-Des Moines, a branch of Central Washington University, is co-located on the Highline College campus and offers several bachelor and graduate degrees as well.

Federal Way: 

Federal Way celebrates diversity and community spirit, while featuring parks and green space, safe streets and excellent schools. Located along the Puget Sound inlet and shadowed by the majestic Mount Rainier, this city is a wonderful place for those who love outdoor activities.

Make sure to visit Dash Point State Park during low tide to go skim boarding, an activity crossed between surfing and skateboarding, on shallow water. This 461-acre camping park also features a sandy beach for visitors to sit back and relax on a sunny day. Locals enjoy kayaking and fishing along the shoreline, while others spend their time exploring the miles of forested hiking and biking trails.

Situated equally between the Ports of Tacoma and Seattle, Federal Way offers various forms of transportation to get around. Hop right on I-5 to travel south to Portland or north to Canada.

Residents have plenty of entertainment to take in, whether it be local music, art, theatre or community events. Centerstage Theatre, a leading theatre in the Puget Sound region, presents and produces quality performances year-round.

Federal Way is known for its lush gardens, which range from the national renowned Pacific Bonsai Museum to the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden. PowellsWood Garden also offers a few acres of serene landscaped gardens nestled in native woodland.

Wild Waves Theme and Water Park, the largest water amusement park in Washington, is situated along I-5. The theme park features 44 rides over a 70-acre campus, four of which are roller coasters. Check out some thrill rides like the Ring of Fire or throw on a swimsuit for the Raging River Ride. Family and kiddie rides are also available.

Head over to the Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatic Center to enjoy the same pool that swimming and diving Olympians use to train and compete. This center hosted the U.S. Olympic Trials for diving in 2000 and 2012, in addition to other top national and international competitions. The pool is also open to the public for lap swims, lessons, family swims and more.

Issaquah: 

Issaquah resides within the Mountains to Sound Greenway, which connects 1.5 million acres around I-90. The city is surrounded on three sides by what are known locally as the Issaquah Alps: Cougar Mountain on the west, Squak Mountain to the south and Tiger Mountain to the southeast.

The Cougar Mountain Zoo is located on the north slope of the mountain, just to the west of Issaquah. This 8-acre zoo offers a glimpse at many endangered species from across the world, including small lemurs from Madagascar.

Built in 1936, the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery is owned and operated by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife on the Issaquah Creek. The hatchery annually raises about 4 million Chinook and Coho salmon, which then migrate on to Puget Sound and the North Pacific.

Issaquah Salmon Days is a two-day award-winning festival held on the first full weekend of October every year. In addition to praising the city’s history and culture, this festival celebrates the return of salmon to their birth waters.

Initiated by a parade, this free event encompasses several arts and crafts conventions, attracting many local artists. These artisans feature wood, glass, jewelry, paintings, pottery and metal artworks for sale in booths across the downtown and historic area.

 

Front Street has an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, bars, brewpubs and boutiques

 

  • Kent
    • Kent is generally divided into 3 sections: West Hill (mixed residential and commercial along Interstate 5), Valley (primarily industrial and commercial with some medium density residential; significant parkland along Green River), and East Hill (primarily residential with retail).
    • Major waterways include the Green River, which flows north through Kent on its way to Puget Sound. The largest lake is Lake Meridianon the city’s East Hill.
    • Kent’s park system includes 73 parks, miniparks, playfields, skateparks, greenbelts, and other related facilities.
    • Lake Meridian is packed full fun activities like open fields, picnic shelters, beautiful docks to watch the sunset, lots of room for the kids, and a public swimming area. This lake, stocked with Rainbow Trout, Kokanee, Largemouth Bass, Yellow Perchis, is every fisherman’s dream. nights in the summer where you can enjoy the live music during the Kent Summer Concert series!
    • miles of trails and acres of green
    • Kent is home to the modern, intimate accesso ShoWare Center, featuring three hometown teams. The Seattle Thunderbirds, Seattle Mist and Tacoma Stars offer fans a major league experience
    • Kent Valley Ice Centre is the largest multipurpose ice entertainment facility in the Pacific Northwest. From figure skating and ice hockey, to batting cages and mini golf, Kent Valley Ice Centre offers something for everyone.
  • Kirkland
    • The Peter Kirk Community Center is our community’s hub of activity for people age 50 and over. The Peter Kirk Pool is an outdoor public pool that offers swimming instruction and recreation all summer. classes including: adult fitness, adult dance, preschool activities, special interest, youth activities, youth dance, gymnastics, and movement.
  • A suburb east of Seattle
  • The city’s downtown waterfront[6]has restaurants, art galleries, a performing arts center, public parks, beaches, and a collection of public art, primarily bronze sculptures.
  • Kirkland is bordered to the west by Lake Washington, to the east by Redmond, to the south by Bellevue, and to the north by Kenmore, Woodinville, and Bothell.
  • vibrant, lakeside oasis
  • Bridle Trails State Park is 489-acre Washington state park in the Bridle Trails neighborhood of Kirkland. This woodsy asset offers a 28-mile trail system for horseback riding and hiking, and features an outdoor arena used for equestrian shows.
  • The Kirkland Performance Center, the City’s premier theatre, hosts more than 200 music, theatre and dance performances each year.
  • Go for a night out on the town at Flatstick, the Lounge by Top Golf
  • Redmond
    • It encompasses an area of over 17.14 square miles and is located less than 20 miles east of downtown Seattle at the north end of Lake Sammamish.
    • Redmond’s park system consists of 31 developed and 14 undeveloped parks
    • Facilities range from community, neighborhood, and resource parks to undeveloped open space, beautification areas, and gathering places. They include a waterfront park on Lake Sammamish (Idylwood), a wildlife preserve known as the Redmond Watershed, and a farm with equestrian facilities at Farrel-McWhirter Park.
    • The city is well known as a center of technology and the location for a number of nationally known high-tech and biomedical companies. Among these are Microsoft, Nintendo, AT&T, and Physio-Control. Redmond Town Center, a large downtown retail center, offers numerous shops, restaurants
    • Microsoft: the world’s largest maker of computer operating systems and applications such as word-processing and spreadsheet programs. Although it has offices throughout the world, Microsoft does most of its research and product development at its corporate headquarters
    • With an annual bike race on city streets and the state’s only velodrome, Redmond is also known as the “Bicycle Capital of the Northwest”
    • Redmond also is host to a number of exciting annual events such as Derby Days, which is the town’s signature summer festival centered around the spirit of competition with races, contests, parades, food, arts, and more.  The event, held July 7th& 8th, is an annual tradition for Redmond, dating back to 1940.
    • Marymoor Park is 640 acres of recreational activities, ranging from soccer to cricket, dog park, rock climbing, birdwatching, rare amenities, culturally-enriching events, Cirque du Soleil, velodrome, movies and concerts in the summer
  • Renton
    • Renton is connected to a vast regional and international transportation network built to support air, sea, road, and rail systems.
    • The city also maintains its own 170-acre municipal airport where every Boeing 737 takes its maiden flight. It’s the Renton Municipal Airport that has really allowed the city to thrive as an aerospace and aviation hub. Three of Boeing’s six main business divisions are headquartered in Renton, and 14 other aerospace-related manufacturing, supply, and service companies call Renton home. The aviation industry is one of the most important contributors to the Pacific Northwest economy.
    • Renton straddles the southeast shore of Lake Washington, at the mouth of the Cedar River.
    • Other well-known manufacturing, technology and healthcare organizations, such as Ikea, Paccar, Virginia Mason Athletic Center, where the Seahawks have trained since 2008
  • VMAC is the second largest NFL facility, and allows fans to watch practice during training camp.
    • Views of the Cascades and Mount Rainier
    • 6-mile drive to SeaTac airport
  • Sammamish
    • Located on a plateau, the city is bordered by Lake Sammamish to the west and the Snoqualmie Valley to the east.
    • The City incorporated in 1999 and is in the midst of a number of major commercial, residential and infrastructure projects that are helping to define the City’s next chapter.
    • Sammamish Commons: A 25 acre park located in the middle of Sammamish with an upper and lower section connected by an accessible trail. Upper Commons features a skate park, basketball court, play equipment, Commons Plaza, Sammamish City Hall, Sammamish Libraryand Sammamish Community & Aquatic Center. Lower Commons features a community garden, playground, spray park, loop trail, shelters, grass areas and CrossPath Counseling and Consultation.
    • Pine Lake Park: This 19 acre wooded park is located along the shores of Pine Lake, includes picnic shelters, play structures, restrooms, trails, sports fields and courts, dock for fishing and lifeguards for swimming
    • Sammamish Landing is an 8 acre site located along the eastern shoreline of Lake Sammamish. There are three beach areas, as well as two docks and a picnic shelter. Only public property in city limits
    • The 213 acre Evans Creek Preserve offers wildflower meadows, wetlands, wildlife, forested uplands, 3.5 miles of pedestrian-only loop trails and precious respite from the noise and bustle of everyday urban living.
    • Beaver Lake: north side of the park offers a quiet atmosphere, access to Beaver Lake, two rental facilities, open grass areas and a large meadow. The west side of Beaver Lake Park offers three sports fields, a playground, picnic shelter, off-leash dog park and restrooms.
  • SeaTac
    • SeaTac is home to more than fifty restaurants/cafes, food trucks, convenience stores and ethnic markets.
    • The name SeaTacis a portmanteau of Seattle and Tacoma, and is derived from the Seattle–Tacoma International Airport. The city boundaries surround the Seattle–Tacoma International Airport, which is owned and operated by the Port of Seattle
    • Angle Lake, has a barbecue area, a boat launch, a fishing pier, playground equipment, an open recreation area, swimming facilities, a stage, toilet facilities, and a spray park. In the swimming area lifeguardsare on duty during the summer months
    • Various facilities with soccer, softball and baseball fields, as well as basketball and tennis courts, walking trails, open areas, parking and toilet facilities
    • The city is also served by several public transportationservices: Link Light Rail stops at two stations in the city, at SeaTac/Airport station and Angle Lake station
    • SeaTac is a vibrant community, economically strong, environmentally sensitive, and people-oriented.
    • The Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden is a one-of-a-kind heritage location that was created to preserve some of the area’s most treasured gardens. The Garden is situated on approximately 11 acres adjacent to the North SeaTac Community Center. Included are two gardens that were physically moved to prevent their demolition during SeaTac Airport’s third runway project.
  • Shoreline
    • The City of Shoreline offers classic Puget Sound beauty and the convenience of suburban living with the attractions of nearby urban opportunities.
    • From breathtaking views of Puget Sound to tennis, nature trails and beach access to skateboarding, Shoreline’s more than 400 acres of park land and open space offer a variety of enriching recreation and outdoor experiences.
    • The City recently invested $18.5 million to improve its parks, which include saltwater shoreline, a botanical garden, an interurban trail and hiking trails, and newly improved athletic fields, courts and playgrounds.
    • Shoreline shares its south border with Seattle and downtown Seattle is approximately 10 miles away. Shoreline is bordered on the west by Puget Sound, on the north by Edmonds, and on the east by Lake Forest Park.
    • Richmond Beach Saltwater Park: This serene L-shaped beach is approximately 1,300 feet long and a great place to watch for resident orcas in the winter months. The park contains 40 acres of land with trails and picnic shelters perfect for spending a day at the beach.
    • Kruckeberg Botanic Garden: This four-acre public garden contains a unique blend of Pacific Northwest native plants and unusual exotics set in a naturalistic wooded setting. More than 2,000 species
    • Highland Ice Area: 2 rinks, public skating sessions, family-owned
  • Northgate
    • One of the largest neighborhoods in north Seattle, conveniently located off I5
    • Divided into four sections: Haller Lake, Pinehurst, Maple Leaf, North College Park
  • Haller Lake itself has a ‘secret garden’ kind of feel; only one road lends public access, and the four or so parking spaces only further the sensation that you’ve stumbled across something private. The water has that glassy quality from being sheltered from wind and watercraft, and the small shore is perfect for a picnic or just sunbathing. Nearby Northacres Parkis perfect for letting the dog out for some off-leash time on the woodsy trails
    • Home to the first indoor mall, first regional shopping center in the US
  • The new mall is expected to be up and running when the new light rail station opens in 2021, currently remains open during construction for the remaining businesses
  • Now it will be home to the practice rink of Seattle’s new NHL team: three ice rinks in total, as well as new offices and places to live. The place where Nordstrom and Forever XXI sit will be a grocery store.
  • site of a massively-redeveloped
  • Greenlake
    • Green Lake is one of Seattle’s most beloved parks. Its expanse of water and green space in the center of a dense urban neighborhood draws thousands of people daily from all over the city.
    • The park serves as a natural preserve for hundreds of species of trees and plants, as well as numerous birds and waterfowl.
    • The 2.8-mile path around the lake provides a perfect recreational spot for runners, bikers, skaters and walkers. Many others use the athletic fields or visit the park for boating, picnics and swimming.
    • Freshwater lake in north central Seattle
  • The park is surrounded by the Green Lakeneighborhood to the north and east, the Wallingford neighborhood to the south, the Phinney Ridge neighborhood to the west, and Woodland Park to the southwest.
  • The Green Lake Small Craft Center, which is a Seattle Parks facility, is the training ground for Green LakeCrew, which has a history of successful rowing at the national level.
  • The Green Lake Small Craft Center also is home to the Seattle Canoe and Kayak Club. This Olympic style sprint paddling also competes at a national level.
  • There isn’t a huge nightlife scene here, although you could take country line dancing lessons at The Little Red Henor catch a live band on Friday nights at the Latona Pub.
  • Golf a few holes at Green Lake Pitch n Putt
  • In addition, there are cute cafes and pubs nearby where visitors can refuel with a donut, a pint or an espresso.
  • Greenwood
    • In Greenwood there are a lot of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, specialty stores, theatres and parks. Many young professionals live in Greenwood
    • A neighborhood in north central Seattle
  • Since 1993 the neighborhood has hosted the “Greenwood Classic Car Show” on the last Saturday in June. Another annual event is the “Greenwood SeafairParade”, held on the fourth Wednesday in July. Both events draw tens of thousands of visitors to the neighborhood.
  • They are far enough to feel like their own little community, but close enough to all of the hot spots. Bus lines give you easy access to Downtown Seattle, making a night out on the town simple and commuting a breeze.
  • Monthly art walksshowcase not only local artists, but give you a chance to tour all of the interesting businesses along Greenwood Avenue.
  • Other worthy stops include the Greenwood library, newly renovated and a pleasant space
    • Short distance to Ballard
  • If you are a beer drinker Greenwood has some can’t miss options like Naked City Brewing and the Yard
  • Lake Forest Park
    • Suburban city northeast of Seattle, nestled in the northwest corner of Lake Washington
  • The city is situated at the northwest end of Lake Washingtonalong State Route 522, which provides connections to Seattle and Bothell. Lake Forest Park includes several parks and nature reserves, access to the Burke–Gilman Trail, and organized summer events.
  • Lake Forest Park Town Center forms the city’s commercial core. This one complex includes the public library, police department, city hall, and approximately 40 shops, small businesses, and medical/professional offices. Third Place Commons is a large public space that occupies much of the central building’s upper level.[21]In the summer, this same complex hosts a large outdoor farmer’s market
  • Horizon View Parkis located at the highest point in Lake Forest Park and offers fields, a children’s playground with swings and a play train, a basketball half-court, tennis court, play field, picnic tables, and paved pathways through a natural, wooded area.
  • The Burke-Gilman Trailruns in parallel to the lake shore, following the shoreline into Kenmore to the north, and Seattle to the south.
  • The two largest streams are Lyon Creek and McAleer Creek, both of which provide habitat for salmon
  • Bordered by Shoreline to the west, Seattle to the south, and Kenmore to the north
  • The city is an enclave of woodlands, waterfront, and hills and valleys
  • One amazing feature is the Lake Forest Park Civic Club (https://lfpcc.org/), located on Lake Washington at the base of Ballinger Way. With a sandy beach, a boat ramp, enormous dock, playground, fields, and clubhouse, this gem is deeded onto several thousand properties in the original LFP Plats (it’s included when you buy a home!).
  • The Sheridan Beach Club is another jewel, located on the Lake with a pool, dock, and pickle ball court, this property is deeded with homes in the surrounding Sheridan Beach and Sheridan Heights neighborhoods (http://www.sheridanbeach.org/).
  • Woodinville
    • Woodinville’s unique character is brought to life with its upsurge as a unique winery destination. Woodinville is home to nearly half of all wineries northeast of Seattle.
    • Many of Woodinville’s more than 100 wineries, cideries, and distilleries offer tastings, winemaker dinners, clubs and special events
    • Celebrate Woodinville Summer Concerts & Festival at DeYoung Park & various downtown locations
    • Celebrate Woodinville Winterfest, including a 5k & 10k, Street Fair, and Downtown Tree Lighting
  • Woodinville’s economy is a mix of light industrial, retail, and tourism. Woodinville is increasingly known for its local wineries, which showcase wines from grapes grown in Eastern Washington including Chateau Ste. Michelle(well known for their popular summer concert series), Columbia Winery and dozens of other smaller ones.
  • Head to the Hollywood District to visit Washington’s oldest winery, Chateau Ste. Michelle* (14111 NE 145th St), where you can taste by the glass or buy a bottle to enjoy with a charcuterie board on the sprawling grounds.
  • Browse the artisan crafts at the Woodinville Farmers Market in the heart of town. Open during warm-weather months, this market offers travelers a true taste of the area with everything from fresh-cut flowers to local berries. Head across the street to Molbak’s Garden & Home(13625 NE 175th St), where you’ll find floral arrangements created with local blooms and nautical-themed displays.
  • East of Seattle lies Woodinville, a rural community nestled in the fertile Sammamish Valley. Home to farms and horse trails, surrounded by green hills and the high-tech cities of Redmond and Bothell, Woodinville has become both a significant tourist destination
  • Woodinville’s Jerry Wilmot Park lies along the 10-mile Sammamish River Trail that connects Blyth Park in Bothell to Marymoor Park in Redmond.
  • Seattle
    • Seattle contains many districts and neighborhoods, such as Capitol Hill, West Seattle, Queen Anne Hill, Ballard and more.
    • Downtown offers a variety of attractions, ranging from the Space Needle and EMP at Seattle Center to Pike Place Market and the waterfront Ferris Wheel
    • A seaport city, largest city in the state of Washington and the Pacific Northwest region of North America
    • Home to the Mariners, Seahawks and Sounders, as well as Safeco Field and CenturyLink Field
    • Check out the Central Public Library, not only for the books but for the modern architectural marvel of glass grids and unusual shapes
  • Seattle is a city of distinct neighborhoods and urban districts that, though close to one another, change from one street to the next.
  • It boasts large arenas, multistory bookshops, dozens of museums and galleries, and countless examples of public art.
  • Seattlelies on the southeastern shore of Puget Sound, a deep 100-mile- (160-km-) long inlet of the northern Pacific Ocean. The central portion of the city faces Elliott Bay, a deep-floored extension. At Shilshole Bay, to the northwest, Puget Sound is joined by the 8-mile- (13-km-) long Lake Washington Ship Canal. The canal passes through Lake Union, Portage Bay, and Union Bay to Lake Washington
  • The Seattle-born Starbucks coffee-shop chain and com, an Internet-based retailer

 

Pierce

  • Auburn
    • Exploring Auburn takes you through unique and special entertainment experiences afforded by the state’s only thoroughbred racing track Emerald Downs, premier outdoor concert venue White River Amphitheater, Muckleshoot Casino, The Outlet Collection, the largest outlet mall in the PNW
    • Auburn offers everything for the outdoor enthusiast including bike trails, golf courses, fishing areas and an extensive parks and trails system.
    • Historical attractions such as the White River Valley Museum, Mary Olson Farm and Neely Mansion allow you to get in touch with Auburn’s charming heritage.
    • Today, downtown Auburn provides a gathering place for beloved annual traditions such as our nationally renowned Veterans’ Day Parade
    • Check out the Auburn Performing Arts Center to enjoy a wide array of music, dance, and theatre options showcasing awe inspiring talent at this community theater.
    • The Soos Creek Botanical Gardens is lovingly maintained by local volunteers dedicated to promoting the enjoyment, understanding and conservation of plants and the natural word. Inspired by international, regional, and historical gardens
  • Tacoma
    • Mid-sized urban port city on Puget Sound
  • Tacoma is home to a vibrant, creative community of writers, artists and musicians, photographers, filmmakers, passionate entrepreneurs and business owners.
    • Currently experiencing major growth, especially downtown
  • Downtown Tacoma has been restored with a classic mix of modern and historical architecture. With its vibrant Chihuly’s Glass art scattered around downtown
  • Minutes away from the downtown Museum Districtis Tacoma’s Ruston Way Waterfront. Connecting downtown Tacoma to Point Defiance, this coastal road offers a 2 mile stretch of paved walking trail and scenic views of the South Puget Sound.
  • Tacoma Arts Live presents year-round world-class artists at three Tacoma theaters:Pantages, Rialto and Theatre on the Square. The theaters are home to many art groups offering a variety of year-round entertainment. Each year, the theaters play host to ballets, symphonies, live comedy, musicals, concert bands, popular music and other special events
  • Dome
  • Museum of Glass: art museum dedicated to the medium of glass, Tacoma native and renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly, Museum exhibitions feature glass art by Dale Chihuly, of course, but this is also a place to expand your knowledge of glass artists from around the world.
    • Northern tip of Tacoma holds Point Defiance Park, a 702-acre park featuring a zoo and aquarium, a rose garden, forest, playgrounds and beach, also destination for shopping, entertaining and dining
  • The highlight of a visit to the Museum of Glass is a watching glass artists at work in the hot shop amphitheater,
  • Cheney Stadiumis a Minor League Baseball stadium located in Tacoma, Washington. It currently serves as home of the Tacoma Rainiers
  • University Place
    • Enjoy spectacular views of the Chambers Bay Golf Coursefrom the expansive Soundview Trail or take a scenic stroll through the Curran Apple Orchard.
    • Curran: More than 200 trees with more than 15 varieties of apples offer a tranquil place to enjoy nature along with providing food and shelter for birds, bees, small wildlife and deer.
    • Located on the picturesque Puget Sound
    • Scenic views of the Olympic Mountains, Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound
    • University Place is also a destination in itself, with something to offer everyone, including parks, wetlands and preserves, miles of walking and bike paths, dozens of locally owned businesses and a world-class golf course, the critically acclaimed Chambers Bay, which hosted the world’s finest golfers and golf fans for the U.S. Amateur in 2010 and will host the U.S. Open in 2015.
    • The University Place neighborhood is also known for its convenient proximity to Joint Base Lewis-McChord
  • Fircrest
    • With over 30 chain saw sculptures, six beautiful parks, an urban forest of fir trees, and friendly, active neighborhoods, the City of Fircrest has earned its title as “The Jewel of Pierce County.”
    • Fun fact: Fircrest was the last “dry” municipality in Washington State, prohibiting the sale of alcohol by the glass. Voters chose to allow the sale of alcohol in Fircrest in the November 2015
    • Offers quiet living with a strong sense of community. Fircrest is a tight-knit community with many residents being second or even third generation
    • Residents also enjoy Fircrest Fun Days, a major summertime event celebrated with entertainment, food, rides, games, arts and crafts, and concludes with a Fireworks show at the park
    • Fircrest is the place to go for mid-century homes in the Tacoma area
    • Great for families
    • After 57 years in the community, currently in the process of rebuilding the Roy H. Murphy Community Center and Pool, located in the city’s 21-acre park system. Generations of families have enjoyed this center. New building from voter-approved $13.5 million bond measure
    • The Strawberry Feed and Band Concert, the Fircrest Picnic and Rod Run (Car Show) and Fircrest Fun Days have been Fircrest traditions for over 30 years
  • Hilltop
    • A historically diverse neighborhood in the Tacoma Central District
    • Hilltop derives its name from its location on a high bluff overlooking Commencement Bay and the Port of Tacoma. Hilltop is near the historic Tacoma Public Library main branch, Bates Technical College, the Pierce County Courthouse, and the new Pierce County Correctional Facility, all of which are located on Hilltop’s east side.
  • Hilltop is located in the heart of Tacoma above the downtown. It is a quick and convenient spot to pick up a last minute gift, box of chocolates, drug store item, or grab a bite for lunch with choices ranging from barbecue to hot bowls of noodle soup. Hilltop is also one of the oldest residential areas in Tacoma and historic walking tour maps are available
  • Hilltop is also your go-to spot to take care of your banking, dry cleaning, postal and pharmacy needs. And to top it all off, we’ve got barbers and hair salons
  • Located just above Downtown adjacent to Hillside/McCarver, Hilltop has a great location for getting around the city and has easy freeway access. Vibe and rich history
    • Authentic, energetic and up and coming
    • In addition to eating and drinking, there are several awesome parks in Hilltop. It’s also the beginning of the Scott Pierson Trail. People walk and ride bikes on this scenic trail, which goes all the way over the Narrows Bridge to Gig Harbor.
  • Link Light Rail is scheduled to run to Hilltop in its next extension, taking it past local employers Tacoma General (Multicare) and St. Joe’s Hospital
  • Puyallup
    • From most perspectives in the town of Puyallup, Mt. Rainier is visible to the southeast.
    • The downtown shopping district is made up of historic buildings, which date to the town’s origin. Pioneer Park is a community focal point, which boasts a public library, a park with a playground, and walking paths. A new element is the public stage by the public library. At the public stage local musicians put on free shows for the public. South
    • Puyallup is home to the Washington State Fair. It is one of the ten largest U.S. state fairs, attracting over one million people each year. The city itself is built around the Puyallup Fairgrounds. Fair runs for 21 days in September
    • The Puyallup Main Street Association produces the Puyallup Farmers’ Market each year. The market is open Saturdays (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.) from mid-April to mid-October, with a Holiday Market in December
    • Thousands of people come each week to purchase produce, plants and seeds, flowers, baked goods, meats and cheese, food, local handcrafts, and more.
    • Puyallup’s Urban Forest is comprised of trees, gardens, green spaces, and other natural areas. Puyallup’s Urban Forest provides a myriad of benefits – from intercepting storm water, conserving energy, cleaning the air, beautifying our city, improving health – making our communities cleaner, safer, and healthier while reducing the costs associated with many other services.
    • Puyallup is home to a wonderful outdoor art gallery, thanks to the dedication and hard work of local arts organization Arts Downtown. The gallery consists of more than 50 sculptures in full public display throughout the downtown.
    • Puyallup’s large park systemhas something for everyone: a spray park, a skate park, an off-leash dog park. Hiking and walking trails, ball fields, playgrounds. A community garden, tennis courts, seasonal fishing.
    • The Puyallup Fish Hatchery sits on over 80 acres, the hatchery, operated by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, opened in 1949 to raise and supply trout to area lakes.
    • Puyallup hosts three unique parades each year: the Daffodil Parade in early spring, the Rodeo Parade in conjunction with the annual Washington State Fair, and the Lighted Santa Parade just before the holiday season.
  • Lakewood
      • There are five lakes totaling nearly two miles of water area that are great for water sports like skiing, rowing, and fishing.
  • Lakewood has three golf courses, including Oakbrook, Tacoma Country & Golf and American Lake Veterans Golf Course.
    • Our 340-acre Fort Steilacoom Park is the crown jewel of Lakewood and draws over 1 million visitors each year from across the region. 340+ acres of trails and prairie lands, fish, swim, boat. Includes an off-leash dog park and several soccer and baseball fields
    • Historic Lakewold Gardens offers a glimpse at Lakewood’s past with its serene gardens and historic building, which make a perfect space to hold your special event.
  • Nestled along the shores of American Lake sits 500-year-old Thornewood Castle, reconstructed in Lakewood in 1907; sits of four acres surrounded by fir trees, has been restored to a gracious country inn
  • Hess Bakerymakes fresh pretzels and German baked goods with ingredients imported from Germany.

Snohomish

  • Edmonds
    • Edmonds, a vibrant city located just 15 miles north of Seattle and 18 miles south of Everett, is easy to reach by Amtrak and Sound Transit commuter rail, Community Transit buses, Washington State Ferries, automobiles and bicycles. Edmonds was a well-established town by the turn of the century and the present urban form preserves many characteristics of its historic origins. The community’s location along the west-facing slopes of Puget Sound provides many amenities, including extensive views of the water and Olympic Mountains, access to four beaches and waterfront parks, and convenient access to a compact, walkable downtown area.
    • The City provides many amenities for residents and visitors. An active arts and cultural community contributes to the strong sense of civic pride widely shared in the community. There are numerous well-kept residential neighborhoods, a viable economic base, and an active, involved citizenry.
    • The Edmonds-Kingston Ferryconnects south Snohomish County and north King County with the northern Kitsap Peninsula and points west on the Olympic Peninsula via the Hood Canal Bridge. This ferry route carries the highest number of vehicles and second highest number of passengers for all state ferry routes.
    • Edmonds has 5 miles (8.0 km) of shoreline, which is crossed by several small streams.
    • Edmonds is considered a major hub for the arts in Snohomish County, with a dozen galleriesand other arts facilities. The city government established the Edmonds Art Commission in 1975 and developed its public arts program in the following decades. The city has a collection of 35 outdoor art installations, 22 flower pole structures, and maintains several facilities dedicated to various arts.
    • Edmonds has hosted the annual Edmonds Arts Festivalsince 1957, with three days of art exhibitions and performances over Father’s Day weekend in June. The festival is one of the largest in the Pacific Northwest
    • The Black Box Theater, located on the Edmonds Community College campus, is an intimate venue for local performing arts, concerts, improv comedy and more.
    • Edmonds Centerfor the Arts presents a varied selection of performing artists from around the world including dance, concerts, comedy shows and education programs.
  • Everett
    • The Port of Everett operates international shipping terminals
    • Largest city in Snohomish county, located 25 miles north of Seattle, city is nestled between Port Gardner Bay and the Snohomish River
  • North Everett’s quaint historic downtown is home to a vibrant arts, culture and music scene, delicious dining, pubs and breweries, Angel of the Winds Arena, and family-oriented festivals year-round. The downtown also hosts unique shopping experiences including toy maker Funko’s headquarters.
  • Everett is easy to access to by car, train, bus and air. Paine Field at Everett began commercial air service in early 2019 with 24 daily flights to destinations along the west coast and beyond, connecting Everett to the world.
  • On the Port Gardner waterfront is Naval Station Everett and the Port of Everett, which boasts the largest public marina on the West Coast. Northwest Everett is also home to Providence Regional Medical Center and new branch of Seattle Children’s Hospital, offering more than 15 pediatric subspecialties of care.
  • Everett remains a major employment center for Snohomish County, but has also become a bedroom communityfor Seattle in recent decades. It is connected to Seattle by Interstate 5 and various public transit services at Everett Station, including the Sounder commuter train, Amtrak, and commuter buses. Everett stages several annual festivals and is also home to minor league sports teams, including the Everett Silvertips at Angel of the Winds Arena.
  • Lake Stevens
    • Lake Stevens is a city in Snohomish County, Washington, United States that surrounds the lake bearing the same name.
    • The lake covers approximately 1,000 acres, is 146 feet deep at its deepest point, and is 210 feet above sea level. Its shoreline measures 8 linear miles. Water enters from all points along the shore; however, major contributing watersheds include Lundeen and Stevens Creeks in the north and Stitch Lake in the south.
    • Nearly 60% of Lake Stevens’ households are “Up and Coming Families”
  • Just 10 minutes east of Everett, and 34 minutes from downtown Seattle, Lake Stevens is home to hardworking families and retirees.  The city’s motto, “One Community Around the Lake”, embodies its quality of life, top-ranked school district, and the City Council’s commitment to providing excellent services and amenities for its citizens.
    • Largest natural lake in Snohomish County
  • Recreational uses of the lake include fishing, swimming, boating, and skiing. Two County parks, Willard Wyatt Parkand Sunset Park, and three City of Lake Steven parks provide public access to Lake Stevens. Boats can be launched at Wyatt Park and the City boat launch.
  • Lake Stevens has 195 acres of parks and open space managed by the city government, Snohomish County, and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. The city government owns 158 acres and has nine parks that are categorized as community parks, neighborhood parks, mini-parks, and other facilities.
  • Lynnwood
    • Situated at the convergence of interstates I-5 and I-405, Lynnwood’s accessibility, variety of housing and employment options, colleges and outstanding park system attract a wide variety of businesses and residents.
    • Lynnwood is a suburban bedroom communityfor Seattle, Everett and Bellevue. It has one of the largest concentrations of retailers in the region, anchored by the Alderwood Mall and businesses along major streets.
    • 3 million square foot shopping center with a unique mix of retail, entertainment, and dining options, making it the go-to retail destination for locals and visitors alike.
    • wonderful dining options, state of the art movie theaters, and a dizzying array of nearby outdoor activitiesas well as shops.
    • Come and experience the history of Lynnwood from its roots as Alderwood Manor in the 1920’s. Heritage Park features some of Alderwood Manor’s earliest structures renovated as heritage resources for the community, and the fully-restored Interurban Trolley Car 55 from the Interurban Railway.
    • The Lynndale Park Amphitheater, located in Lynnwood’s Lynndale Park, hosts a variety of free cultural events including the popular Shakespeare in the Park performances in the summer.
    • Walk on a world-class Reflexology Path at Lynnwood Recreation Center.  Step next door to the Lynnwood Senior Center and see prized Jacob Lawrence pieces then visit the rotating art display in the lobby at Lynnwood City Hall.
    • The Lynnwood Bowl & Skate, opened in 1956 features modern amenities with an awesome retro vibe, with the largest indoor maple skating rink in Washington state, and a 24-lane bowling alley at one location! Prefer skating on ice? Check out the Lynnwood Ice Centerwith open skate sessions, lessons, parties, and skate rentals.
    • The newly renovated Meadowdale Playfieldsoffer three lighted competition softball fields and two lighted soccer fields. This beautiful and convenient venue often hosts youth, adult and senior league competitions and tournaments.
  • Marysville
    • Second-largest city in Snohomish County
    • Jennings Memorialand Jennings Nature Park in Marysville are beautiful gathering places for families and outdoor lovers. Pack a picnic and explore these green oases along Allen Creek. Check out the Gehl House Museum, Jennings Barn, Dinosaur Park, fishing pond, playgrounds, trails, arboretum, WSU master garden and more. Walk a network of nature trails or start your journey along the 3.4-mile Jennings Loop Walk.
    • Located in downtown, Ebey Waterfront Parkprovides boat-launch access into the pristine Snohomish River Delta, a unique inter-tidal estuary and haven for exotic wildlife and wetland fauna.
    • With a wide array of retail shopping experiences available throughout town, bargain-hunters looking for a unique local product or gift should include a visit to downtown Third Street, with its rustic charm and friendliness. Cross State Avenue for more values in Marysville Towne Centre Mall. While downtown, grab a meal to go and people-watch in Comeford Park.
    • Lakewood Crossing Shopping Center is a convenient alternative for regional and local shoppers.
    • Gateway Shopping Center sits east across I-5 from the Tulalip Casino and Seattle Premium Outlets, an high-end retail open-air mall with more than 110 outlet stores featuring designer and brand names
    • High rollers with that lucky feeling can visit the 227,000-square-foot Tulalip Casinoin Quil Ceda Village along I-5
    • The Marysville branch of the Sno-Isle Librariesis a great community space, with dedicated rooms for community meetings, resources for graphic design and video production, and even job-skills experts and grant funding assistance.
    • The city is located 35 miles north of Seattle, adjacent to Everetton the north side of the Snohomish Riverdelta.
  • Gold Bar
    • The City of Gold Bar is situated at the foothills of the Cascade Mountains.  We are the gateway to the Cascade Mountains.
    • Located on Highway 2 near Milepost 26
    • People move to Gold Bar for affordable housing, small town feel and close proximity to outdoor recreation
  • Gold Bar is known as a white-water rafting destination for those seeking to float the Skykomish River. Gold Bar is home to one of the most popular low elevation hikes in the metro Seattle area, the trail to Wallace Falls, is located on the north margin of the city.
    • Minutes away from the Towns of Index, Skykomish, Alpine Falls, Deception Falls, Stevens Pass ski area
  • Gold Bar hosts the Gold Dust days every fourth weekend in July. It is a street fair with vendors selling wares, local music, and food. Traditionally, there is also a car show that takes place on the Saturday of the weekend.
  • Sultan
    • Sultan is a scenic community surrounded by sparkling waterways and stunning mountain views. Nestled in at the confluence of the Wallace, Skykomish, and Sultan rivers, Sultan combines rustic, small town charm with great historical reverence, as it aspires toward responsible growth while honoring its origins.
    • The City seeks to draw guests onto Main Street with shops and restaurants that entice, and is working to usher in several new businesses in 2018.
    • Visitors and residents are invited to explore the wooded, riverside trails of Osprey Park. Or stop by the Sky Valley Historical Society museum to view a myriad of treasures from Sultan’s past.
    • The Sultan Visitors Information Center (VIC) can help with everything from a Discovery Pass to a fishing license, and can even recommend a tasty place to dine.
    • It is located approximately 23 miles (37 km) east of Everettat the confluence of the Skykomish River and the Sultan River, a minor tributary.
    • Sultan has since become a bedroom communityfor large employment centers in the Puget Sound region. The city has several public parks, a historic museum, and is located near outdoor recreation areas in the Cascade Mountains. It is connected to nearby cities by S. Route 2.

 

Thurston

  • Lacey
    • Situated on the southern tip of Puget Sound in the shadow of magnificent Mt. Rainier, Lacey lies in the center of a natural paradise. Five freshwater lakes within the city, miles of hiking and biking paths, several championship golf courses, more than 1,200 acres of public parkland, and the adjoining 3,700-acre Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge provide residents with virtually unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation.
      • home to over 300 wildlife species and features an interpretive center, picnic areas, and 5 1/2 miles of walking trails.
    • With over 1,200 acres of parkland and open space, a premier regional athletic complex and several community buildings, Lacey’s residents and visitors enjoy one of the finest municipal park networks in the state.
    • History buffs will enjoy the Lacey Historical Museum: Through exhibits, educational programs and research archives, the Lacey Museum tells the story of the community’s past, and how its rich history has affected the present and will shape the future.
    • Kayak or fish one of the five freshwater lakes or dip your toes into the water at Long Lake Park
    • Tolmie State Park: This 105-acre park features one-half mile of pristine Puget Sound beach front, picnic facilities, and 2.25 miles of walking trails.
    • Huntamer Park: This downtown park is the site of numerous outdoor events throughout the year, including the Lacey in Tune Concert Series, Children’s Entertainment Series, South Sound BBQ Festival, Outdoor Cinema Series, S.T.E.M. Fair, and Children’s Day. It’s also a great picnic spot for the whole family.
    • Chambers Lake, Smith Lake, Pattison Lake, Hicks Lake, Long Lake, known for fishing, swimming and boating
    • I-5 Bikeway is a 3-mile paved urban trail for pedestrians and bicyclists connects the satellite State Capitol Campus in Lacey to the main campus in Olympia
    • Home of the Thurston County fairgrounds, annual fair community celebration that educates, promotes, and showcases the agricultural, business, industry, and home life
  • Olympia
    • Located on the water of Puget Sound, small city with a love for history, culture and art
    • Family-friendly attractions, delectable dining and comfortable lodging options make exploring this capital city an ideal getaway for all
    • With an economic engine anchored by state government, Olympia enjoys the benefits of a stable work force, engaged and educated community, and well-supported school system
    • Historic Downtown Olympiaoffers a variety of eclectic shopping and dining experiences, while Olympia’s Westside is a regional shopping destination with the Capital Mall and Olympia Auto Mall.
    • Olympiais the capital of the S. state of Washington and the largest city of Thurston County.
    • Olympia has a wide array of public parksand nature conservation areas. The Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Areais a 600-acre (2.4 km2) parcel that preserves more than 5 miles (8.0 km) of Puget Sound waterfront along the Woodard and Chapman Bays of the Henderson Inlet.
    • TheOlympia Farmer’s Market is the second largest market in Washington State, next to Pike Place Market. Enjoy local maker’s handmade goods, fresh produce, local meat, seafood and baked goods.
    • Downtown Olympia, the region’s hub for arts and culture, invites you to sip, shop and savor your way through quirky shops and one-of-kind dining
    • A visit to the Washington State Capitol Campus isn’t complete without a guided tour of the Legislative Building. These free, walking tours are offered daily and typically last about 50 minutes. You can also wander Campus and take in the many memorials, gardens, and special events featured on the grounds
  • Yelm
    • The City of Yelm, is a vibrant and dynamic city, situated in south Thurston County – with picturesque views of Mount Rainier from almost any location around the city. Yelm represents a very special place in Washington State with a fascinating mix of small-town pride and history
    • The Yelm area stands out among the most livable cities in Thurston County attributed to the highly attractive landscape, proximity to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and affordability.
    • Yelm City Park is the City’s first public park and is the centerpiece of Yelm.  The park stays busy entertaining families year-round and is host to many community-wide events, including the ‘Annual Jazz Festival’ and ‘Christmas in the Park.’
    • Operated by the Yelm Prairie Historical Society, the Yelm Historical Museum features revolving displays from Yelm’s rich history.p
    • Yelm Cinemas- Sit back and enjoy the movies in the comfort of a recliner in one of the most comfortable movie theaters in the state.
    • Prairie Lanesis an 8-lane bowling alley in downtown Yelm. The bowling center offers leagues, recreational bowling, fundraisers and is a great place to host parties.