The past couple of weeks all of us over at KXA had a fun promotion that highlighted everyone’s favorite Staycations in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. We wanted to celebrate the beautiful state we live in and see what all of you had to say about it.
We had dozens of entries and so many of you decided on the same exact places as “THE place to be in the PNW”. So we narrowed down the top ten places to go on a Staycation right in our neck of the woods. There are certainly many more, we could be here all day talking about it. But here we go with the Top 10:
1)Leavenworth
This popular destination is like traveling back in time. Leavenworth is a Bavarian-styled village tucked against the Cascade Mountains.
Alpine-style buildings with restaurants serving German beer and food line Front Street along with several wineries and old shops. This village is a
storybook getaway for families, couples, and those who simply want to escape for a while.
2)Ocean Shores
Whether you take an RV, stay in a beautiful hotel or resort, or pass through on a day trip, this is a favorite among Washingtonians.
Ocean Shores offers camping, quaint shops all within walking distance, hiking, tandem bike and motorbike rentals, and of course gorgeous sunsets and
wide expanses of sand for bonfires and long walks.
3)Mt. Rainier National Park
This is a favorite among hikers and campers because Mt. Rainier National Park is like a world on one mountain. With dozens of trails
ranging from easy to extremely difficult, Mt. Rainier has so many microclimates that you can experience. Snow-packed terrain, muggy rainforest-like
trails, rivers and water holes, and lookouts that literally put you in the clouds. Whether you’re pitching a tent, staying in a cabin, or living a
little bit more luxuriously in a hotel nearby—Mt. Rainier is certain to clear your head and give the outdoorsy type a dream getaway.
4) Mountain Loop Highway
Starting in Granite Falls, this highway loops into Mt. Baker National Forest and keeps on going and going straight into Verlot and
Silverton and then….it just seems to never end! But the beauty of Mountain Loop lies in its diversity. There are camping sites as well as dozens
of off-site areas to pitch a tent by the river and camp in solitude right against the mountains. There are also hiking trails ranging from nature hikes
for kids to steeper and rockier terrains, such as summiting Mt. Pilchuck.
5)San Juan Islands
The San Juans are truly an Island Getaway. There are glamping resorts that have weekend stays available in teepees or yurts as well
as fancy resorts with spas and massage therapy and luxurious rooms. Kayaking, shopping, swimming, and experiencing an island culture all while keeping
your feet on Washington soil is for the adventurer at heart who wants to get far way while staying close to home.
6)Lake Chelan
Lake Chelan’s popularity is derived from the fact that there are over 50 miles of lake surrounded by a diversity of things to do
and see. From vineyards to mountains to small towns, people come from all over to play, camp, swim, and get away for a weekend of fun and beauty. There
is an array of activities that is sure to be suitable for kids, teenagers, and adults alike!
7) Semiahmoo Resort
Chosen as The Northwest’s Best Resort in 2016 by Seattle Magazine readers, this resort is nothing short of stunning. The resort,
golf courses, and spa are located on the shores of Semiahmoo Bay and Drayton Harbor where tide pools and estuaries provide a sanctuary for Pacific
Northwest wildlife. It’s right on the border of Canada and is tucked away just enough to make you feel like you’re really away from every day life.
8)Port Townsend
With its maritime heritage, artist spirit, and a touch of urban chic, Port Townsend is an easily accessible base camp to the Olympic
Peninsula and beyond. Whether on land or sea; indoors or outdoors – Port Townsend has activities for every taste and has been nicknamed as a Victorian
seaport town. It’s been said that Port Townsend is the place for the “artsy fartsy” type, but it’s also a great getaway for those who want to spend
some time by the water and be super close to nearby towns and a modern spin as well.
9)Chuckanut Loop
The Chuckanut Loop (starting in Burlington and headed toward Bellingham) can be a great scenic drive just for the day or a weekend
getaway. Boasting many beaches, hikes, and trails, the Chuckanut Loop also has restaurants, suites and inns, and plenty of little towns and cafes to
explore. There are also state parks that touch the sea and still have prehistoric fossils scattered all over.
10)Sun Mountain Lodge
Our Staycation promotion was sponsored by this beautiful lodge, so naturally it isn’t a surprise that many people talked about Sun
Mountain Lodge being a long-time favorite. Sun Mountain Lodge just celebrated 50 years, and they are still noted as the “Resort for all seasons”. From
horseback riding to hot air balloon rides to fishing and hiking, this resort is tucked alone in the hills of Winthrop, offering a gorgeous getaway
for families or couples. They also have a spa, delicious food, and sights that are second to none.
Stay tuned! Coming up on August 1st we will be launching our “10 Reasons to live in Jet City Everett” promotion and we want to hear from YOU and all of your friends and family living in and around Jet City. We will have a form on the contest tab here on everettpost.com where we want you to tell us about the beautiful reasons you live, work, raise a family, and call this area your home!
