See what the experts are saying about Quinault. Get expert advice on how to get there what to see and more.
-
Introduction
Despite what you might have heard to the contrary, there is more to Washington state than lattes, rain, and Microsoft. Washington is actually such a diverse state that it could have served as a model for the song "America the Beautiful." In t... Continue reading »
-
Best dining bets
The Herbfarm Restaurant (Woodinville; tel. 425/485-5300): This restaurant northeast of Seattle is adjacent to several wineries. Once little more than a roadside farmstand specializing in herbs, over the years it has become the most highly acc... Continue reading »
-
The best beaches
Alki Beach (Seattle): In West Seattle, this is the closest Washington comes to a Southern California-style beach scene. There's a sandy beach and a paved path crowded with in-line skaters, walkers, and cyclists. Across the street are lots of... Continue reading »
-
The best family attractions
Seattle Center (Seattle): As the site of the Space Needle, Seattle Center is one of Seattle's required stops. However, families will also find here a children's museum, a children's theater, an interactive science museum, amusement park rides... Continue reading »
-
The best hikes
Turtleback Mountain Preserve (Orcas Island): Turtleback Mountain runs the length of much of Orcas Island's west side and offers the best hike in the San Juans. The views from the top of the mountain take in everything that makes the San Juans... Continue reading »
-
The best inns and bed & breakfasts
Gaslight Inn (Seattle; tel. 206/325-3654): Beautifully decorated with lots of original Stickley furniture, this Craftsman bungalow is in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. The inn is a must for fans of the Arts-and-Crafts style. To top things off... Continue reading »
-
The best natural attractions
The San Juan Islands: Forested mountains rise up from the cold waters north of Puget Sound to form the archipelago known as the San Juan Islands. Bald eagles circle overhead while orca whales dive for salmon below. Such natural beauty is a po... Continue reading »
-
The best outdoor pursuits
Sea Kayaking in the San Juan Islands: Emerald islands, clear water, orca whales, bald eagles, and remote campsites that are only reached by boat lure sea kayakers to the San Juan Islands. Paddle the islands on your own (if you're experienced)... Continue reading »
-
The best scenic drives
Chuckanut Drive: This road winds south from Bellingham through the Chuckanut Mountains that rise straight up from the waters of Chuckanut and Samish bays. Across the water lie the San Juan Islands, and sunsets are spectacular. Larrabee State... Continue reading »
-
The best small towns and villages
La Conner: Surrounded by tulip fields and filled with art galleries and interesting shops, this former fishing and farming town gets jammed on weekends, but stop by on a weekday or in the off season, and you'll be easily seduced by its vintag... Continue reading »
-
The best wines & vineyards
Sheridan Vineyard (Yakima Valley; 509/829-3205): Focusing production on bordeaux blends and syrah, this winery produces highly distinctive fruit-driven wines from estate-grown grapes. Wineglass Cellars (Yakima Valley; tel. 509/829-3011): T... Continue reading »
-
The best resorts & spas
The Best Mountain Lodges & Resorts Sun Mountain Lodge (Winthrop; tel. 800/572-0493 or 509/996-2211): Perched atop a mountain and overlooking the remote Methow Valley, this is Washington's premier mountain resort. It makes a luxurious and v... Continue reading »






