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A TRIP TO SEATTLE IS the perfect destination to explore a new town with rich history, great shopping, fantastic dining and quirky activities. However, for the unplugged-centric traveler, visiting another city can be a little overwhelming. That's why, in the midst of a fun city-themed trip to Seattle, I managed to escape the hustle and bustle in search of calm seas and a mellow vibe.This week I introduce you to two ways to experience a city outside of the city.PLACES: Discovery Park & Bainbridge Island (CLICK FOR MAP) LOCATION: Seattle, WA |
A recent Klout-sponsored weekend in Seattle had all the elements of a great city get away: delicious and trendy dining, fantastic shopping, kitschy souvenirs and Underground Tours of the underworld. But our favourite moments of all were the ones that brought us out of the heart of the city.
While we enjoyed other Seattle activities and experiences, our most relaxed moments were splashing on the cool shores of Bainbridge Island with our dog Mickey. By the way, the ocean doesn't get much warmer than 68F (20C).
Here are my two favourite picks for unplugging in Seattle:
Discovery Park
Located a 30-minute drive from downtown Seattle, Discovery Park boasts 534 acres of State Park. The area has it all: beautiful vistas, open meadows, forested trails and 2 miles of quiet beaches. Dogs are also allowed on leash on the trails, however are not allowed on the beach...oops. Many Seattlites can be seen mellowing out in Discovery Park - and some of the brave ones even bike up and around the undulating park roads.
Come for a day or camp overnight, there's plenty to explore in Discovery Park.
Bainbridge Island
A 30 minute, dog-friendly State ferry ride from Seattle's waterfront brought us to Bainbridge Island. A comparison to Vancouver's own Bowen or Saltspring islands helps pain the picture of this laid back, hippie-inspired locale. For a relatively small island, there's much to do, including museums, parks, trails, hitting the beach, attending the farmers' markets, and even visiting the island wineries.
But, as two water rats, we headed for the closest canoe and kayak rental spot near the ferry dock (located at the first dock off the Waterfront Trail) and paddled out to Pritchard Park beach.
If you're headed to Seattle anytime soon, check out their website 2 Days In Seattle for ideas on what to do and where to go while you're there.
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Full Disclosure: I received this trip for free as part of the #2daysinseattle tourism campaign through Klout Perks. I did not receive payment for blogging, however did receive complimentary hotel accommodation and spending money to experience Seattle. For more information on this perk, please visit http://cmp.ly/2/kbPhDV
