Visiting Puget Sound

Washington’s Puget Sound is a vast and complex system of interconnected waterways, with the Admiralty Inlet connecting it to the Pacific Ocean. A region in Washington featuring cities like Tacoma and Everett, the Puget Sound stretches as far north as Bellingham, and all the way south to Olympia. The summertime along the Puget Sound opens up a world of boating and fishing chances, and an array out outdoor activity at local lakes and state parks. A smaller city like Tukwila is fun – check out the Riverside Casino, or explore the Museum of Flight.

Everett is an inviting city within the Puget Sound region. Only a half hour drive north from Seattle, Everett is home to the Museum of Snohomish County History, and the Port Gardner Bay Winery. Open Thursday thru Saturday, the Port Gardner Bay Winery's tasting room features locally crafted whites and reds, including the 2009 Columbia Valley Petit Verdot.

Spend a creative and fun afternoon at the Imagine Children’s Museum – the kids can make their own Cinco de Mayo maracas on May 5, during the Art Rocks exhibition. The Evergreen Arboretum and Gardens is a wonderful summertime destination – check it out on June 8 when they’ll be hosting Sorticulture - Everett’s Garden and Art Fair.

Bellingham is north of Everett, and is known as the City of Subdued Excitement. The largest city in Whatcom County, Bellingham is a great summer destination – plan to visit Lake Padden Park, or Whatcom Falls Park as both provide sterling examples of scenic Pacific Northwest landscapes. Learn a bit about the beginnings of modern technology at the American Museum of Radio and Electricity, or enjoy a taste of locally made wine at the Vartanyan Estate Winery.

Bellingham kicks off it’s Festival Season on July 6, when the Western Washington University Performing Arts Center hosts concert pianist Jeremy Denk. On July 9, head to the Mt. Baker Theatre where you’ll watch renowned violinist Joshua Bell – another of the fine summer festivals and performances in Bellingham. Sports fans can check out the Western Washington Vikings softball team play at Viking Field. Check them out April 28 as they take on the Western Oregon Wolves.

Friday Harbor is a quaint town, set on San Juan Island. West of Mt. Vernon, and north of Olympic National Park, Friday Harbor is a premier summer destination for travelers of the Puget Sound. While in Friday Harbor, make plans for the Whale Museum where, on May 4 they'll be hosting the 6th Annual Greeting Ceremony Dinner & Auction at the Mullis Center. Enjoy a taste of locally made wine with a tour and tasting at San Juan Vineyards, just a short drive from downtown Friday Harbor. The San Juan Vineyards hosts their annual Summer Barrel Tasting on June 9, 2012. During the summer, explore the San Juan Island National Historical Park.

Puget Sound Hotel Map