Western Washington Staycation Ideas From Burien Toyota

It's almost Memorial Day weekend and, in case you've forgotten to make plans, we've got some great Washington staycation ideas. There's no need to stay home this long weekend even if you don't have much of a budget...that's the great thing about living in the Puget Sound area: there are many great things to do within driving distance!

1) Winthrop: In an unofficial Facebook survey, Winthrop was a definite winner. Located in the northern cascades in the Methow Valley, Winthrop is a hot-spot for all things outdoorsy, including camping, hiking, hunting, and even ballooning. The town of Winthrop is filled with old-timey shops, but a family favorite is the putt-putt golf course and ice cream shop. Be sure to check the weather for this weekend, though, because snow is predicted in some mountain areas.

2) Deception Pass: Deception Pass is one of the most iconic places in Western Washington. If you haven't driven (or walked) over the churning waters of Deception Pass, you are really missing out. If you have done that, then you might be interested in Deception Pass boat tours that give you a much closer (and faster) view of the bridge and the beautiful sights. Just past the south end of the bridge is an entrance to Cranberry Lake. This is an amazing park because you can stand on a stretch of land and see Puget Sound on one side and Cranberry Lake on the other. On warmer days, you and the kids can swim in the ocean and then run over and rinse the salt off in the lake.

3) Rosario Beach/Bowman's Bay: These two beaches are not far from Deception Pass and could easily be combined for a very fun day trip. Rosario Beach is home to some of the most colorful and plentiful tide pools in the area. You will be able to hold hermit crabs and gently poke sea anemones, guaranteed. Be sure to check out the giant mermaid and read her legend. There are some great little hikes (really a walk out onto a small cliff) for those with younger kids and bigger hikes, including a hike that will take you to the much calmer Bowman's Bay, which is awesome for skipping rocks and looking for beach treasure. There is camping nearby, so if that's your thing, be sure to check it out.

4) Friday Harbor/Orcas Island: What would be a stay-cation list without the San Juan Islands. Drive up to Anacortes and take the ferry out to either of these islands for the day or for the weekend. You don't need specific plans. If you drive your car onto the ferry, you will be delighted to simply drive around the islands and see what you see (I was surprised at the number of farms and gardens). There are any number of Bed and Breakfasts on the islands, but if you want some luxury, check out Rosario Resort and Spa on Orcas Island. While you're there, you can stop by the Whale Museum and any number of the fun little shops in town. Rain or shine, you will feel like you've escaped to different way of life and like you've gotten a much-needed vacation.

5) Kalaloch (pronounced Clay-lock): This is a fabulous Western Washington secret, but was recently picked as one of the best campsites in the country. You cannot beat camping on a bluff right on the Pacific Ocean and falling asleep to crashing ocean waves. You (and your family) will loves the miles of beach to meander. A favorite is the freshwater creek with plenty of logs to ride downstream until it opens up into the ocean (don't forget the wet suits). There are many forest trails to hike and many other nearby beaches that you will want to check out before you leave the salty air and head back to the city. If you are not the camping type, Kalaloch lodge very near the campsite and it even has private cabins. The views and "unplugged" experience are unmatched. Bad weather? There's no such thing because there's nothing better than watching a storm roll in off the ocean...

6) Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad: Mount Rainier is a staple in Washington recreation. Camping, hiking,
fishing, wildlife, and more. The "more" could be the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad. Take your family on a real-life train ride with picturesque views and a chug-a-chug-a that will take you back in time. Children and mature adults alike will revel in this experience. (Tip: if they aren't sold out for Father's Day, there is a fabulous Father's Day deal that includes a trip, BBQ, and all dads get their own conductor's hats. We did it and it was awesome and the grandchildren and grandparents alike loved it, so check it out.) Again, for the non-camping types that want to bask in the ambiance of Mount Rainier, there are various resorts and spas in the Mount Rainier area (which, admittedly, is a large area). You cannot go wrong with a beautiful hike on Mount Rainier.

Whether you go near or far this Memorial Day weekend, be sure to drive your Toyota (or whatever car you currently own...we know you're coming to get a Toyota next, right?) safely and enjoy your Western Washington staycation!