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Hidden Gems of the PNW – Old Town Bellevue

June 12, 2026

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Location: Bellevue Washington USA

Many decades ago I lived in Bellevue and in Issaquah, both towns just east of Seattle. At that time shopping excursions happened at Bellevue Square, the first regional shopping mall in the Pacific Northwest opened in 1946. I never went into “Old Town” because it just wasn’t the cool place to be. But times have changed haven’t they? I love a good old town in every city I visit. So let me tell you about the Hidden Gems of the PNW – Old Town Bellevue.

History of Bellevue’s Old Town

Pioneers like William Meydenbauer and Aaron Mercer filed the first land claims in 1863. The area was initially a logging settlement. Once the trees were cleared, the rich soil was utilized for farming. By 1900 Bellevue became known for its berry and vegetable farms, largely cultivated by Japanese immigrant families. During this time, Old Main Street functioned as the central commercial hub for farmers and locals. But after WWII internment few Japanese families returned to Bellevue.

The opening of the first Lake Washington floating bridge in 1940 caused a massive population surge. This rapid suburban growth was marked by the opening of Bellevue Square in 1946 and the official incorporation of the city in 1953. In the decades that followed Interstate 405 cut through Bellevue in 1967 and the city expanded to become a tech and business center.

Meanwhile “Old Town” organically remained, slowly becoming a pedestrian friendly, restaurant intensive shopping area flanked to the North by the beautiful Downtown Park.

Main Street

My two-day visit to Old Town stretched the boundaries of what is the actual Old Town as I explored the old Main Street from Lake Washington’s sparkling Meydenbauer Park two miles east to the gorgeous (and free) Bellevue Botanic Gardens.

Bellevue Botanical Gardens

Only recently did I become aware of this garden, hidden right in the Bellevue metropolis. Seeing this garden was the catalyst for my visit to Bellevue. Beautifully laid out wandering paths make this 53 acre garden feel so much larger.

The original 25 acres was bequeathed to the city of Bellevue by Cal and Harriot Short who had spent 25 years cultivating the garden. The garden has been expanded twice and is one of the the finest I’ve seen in the Pacific Northwest. Remarkably it is free and open 365 days a year with classes and events for all ages. A visit to the Bellevue Botanical Gardens is a must.

Old Town Shops

When the Shorts lived on the property where the Botanical Gardens now are, it would have been a straight shot down Main Street to Old town. Today you need to meander a bit because Interstate 405 cuts right through Main Street.

I found street parking and just wandered in and out of some of the unique shops in Old Town. Beautiful housewares, clothing, cards, chocolate, jewelry and even Glassy Baby’s are available in Old Town. It’s a lovely place to stroll, grab a coffee or a glass of wine and indulge in one of the Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest.

Dining

I enjoyed two meals while in Old Town and both were spectacular. My son came and met me for dinner at Bis on Main, a highly rated fine dining restaurant. We enjoyed an excellent Caesar Salad and French Onion Soup. My son loved his Black Cod and I enjoyed a giant Pork Chop. Service was great too. I highly recommend Bis on Main.

Dinner with my first born is always a treat, especially at Bis on Main

I woke up to a beautiful sunny and quiet Sunday morning in Old Town so I took a stroll and stumbled into Gilbert’s on Main. Operating as Bellevue’s Deli for 26 years, the sandwich menu is insane! But for breakfast I had to have the Lox and Bagel Platter…and it was indeed a platter. With coffee it kept me full for the rest of the day. Check out Gilbert’s on Main.

Definitely try the Lox and Bagel Platter at Gilbert’s on Main

Parks

Downtown Park is a real jewel, just two blocks off main. Tucked between Old Town to the south and Bellevue Square to the North, this beautiful, green, twenty acre park is Bellevue’s gathering place. The people of Bellevue come to run, walk, and play. Multiple events take place in this park and the water feature is stunning and such a surprise.

A large Eid Festival was happening in Downtown Park

Downtown Park has a great running/walking track

Meydenbauer Park fronts Lake Washington at the far west end of Main Street but an easy walk. This stunning park provides visitors exceptional access to the lake and is very popular on sunny summer days. You also can enjoy views of the lake and of the gorgeous lakefront homes and real estate that surround it.

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Old Town Bellevue

Bellevue Old Town could easily be a day trip from anywhere in the Puget Sound region, but there are also multiple hotels available. I spent one night at the comfortable AC Marriott Bonvoy, just a couple blocks off Main.

Visitors coming to Seattle should consider a day in Bellevue as well as in some of the other gems of East King County like Issaquah, Fall City and Snoqualmie. Extend your Seattle stay to enjoy the surrounding area full of history, recreation, dining, shopping and so much beauty.

Thank you for reading my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Old Town Bellevue. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – The Posh Pescatarian.

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Hidden Gems of the PNW – The Posh Pescatarian at Twanah State Park

June 5, 2026

Laureen

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Location: Union Washington USA

A decade or more ago Washington State Parks began allowing commercial vendors to operate within some parks around the state. We have noticed an increase in this innovative partnership over the past couple of years. One of our new favorite in park commercial operators is near to our home where we spend our summers in the Pacific Northwest. Let me share with you the Hidden Gems of the PNW – The Posh Pescatarian at Twanah State Park.

Twanah State Park

Twanah is one of Washington’s oldest state parks, commissioned in 1923. It is also one of Washington’s smaller state parks at 188 acres. Located on a beautiful beach in the southern part of Hood Canal it offers camping, beach access, boat launch and more. As I child we would come here to swim in the summer both in the canal and in the tiny tot friendly lagoon.

Twanah is also connected to my husband’s family, because my mother in law Lynn lived in the park when she was a young girl. Her step father was the park superintendent and they lived on site in a tiny stone house. That stone house remains today and is used by today’s park ranger.

The word Twanah means “gathering place” in the Native Skokomish language.

The Posh Pescatarian

Opened in summer 2025, the Posh Pescatarian is a seasonal pop-up restaurant within Twanah State Park. It is a 21 and over venue, serving wine, beer and a variety of delicious cocktails. I recommend the Blackberry Sangria.

We visited early in the season for the Mother’s Day weekend celebration. The four course menu we had that day was outstanding. I loved the cod I had with mango salsa, but my favorite thing was the Lobster Bisque.

On that day we lucked out with sunny skies and enjoyed a leisurely meal with my husband’s mom and our oldest son.

Daily Menu

The Posh Pescatarian is now in full swing for the summer, with a delicious daily menu. I love the Carribean Shrimp and on my second visit I inhaled the incredibly moist and delicious Blackened Sablefish. Amazing. Next time I think I’ll try the Surf ‘n Turf Quesadilla and the clam chowder.

Blackened Sablefish with Mango Salsa and Couscous

The staff is also great and well trained by owner Stephanie who is on site and makes sure you have everything you need. Stephanie has a strong background in food service as a chef, author and television host. You are in good hands at The Posh Pescatarian.

Order at the window and then find a seat

Visit The Posh Pescatarian

The Posh Pescatarian is open seven days a week 11:00 am to 7:00pm, but may close early if the weather is bad. You do not need reservations. It is 21 and over. Located at Twanah State Park at 12190 East SR 106 in Union Washington. See directions here.

Nestled in the iconic Pacific Northwest trees but also with a view of the water

Hot summer weekends can get busy at Twanah, come midweek if you can to enjoy this Hidden Gems of the PNW – The Posh Pescatarian at Twanah State Park. Remember to enter any Washington State Park you must have a Discover Pass.

Thank you for reading my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – The Posh Pescatarian at Twanah State Park. I hope you will visit soon. We are always grateful for your comments, pins and shares. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Grayland here.

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Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Grayland

May 29, 2026

Laureen

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Location: Grayland Washington USA

A couple of weeks ago we spent a wonderful few days on the Pacific Ocean at Grayland State Park. It had been many years since I had been in this area and I am so glad we took the time to explore this hidden gem. We ventured around the region and had a great time. Here is my post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Grayland Washington.

Where is Grayland Washington USA

Nestled on the remote Pacific Coast of Washington, Grayland is tiny town that is home to about 700 residents. Located in Grays Harbor County on the border with Pacific County, Grayland is south of Ocean Shores and Westport, southwest of Aberdeen and north of Tokeland.

Camping in Washington State

When I was a child we spent a lot of time camping, often on the Pacific beaches near to our home. I remember miserable gray, rainy days…but also fun barefoot beach experiences too. In Washington State you never know what the weather will bring…and so you come prepared. Camping as a child we were surrounded by aunts, uncles, cousins…it’s one of the best memories I have and I feel lucky to have grown up in this way.

My family about 1967. I’m in the middle looking very much like a boy.

Driving to Grayland

We drove from our home in Port Orchard and it took about two hours and fifteen minutes. Shelton was our first stop for a coffee at the amazing Marmo Gallery Cafe and I highly recommend it. We also stopped in Elma for lunch at the iconic Rusty Tractor Family Restaurant.

Counter at Rusty Tractor is very old school

Grayland State Park & Surrounding Area

Our friends invited us to spend three days with them at Grayland State Park. This beautiful Washington State Park has yurts to rent. Our friends brought their travel trailer and we stayed in a comfortable yurt in the same camping spot. The yurt can sleep four, but for just Arne and I it was very comfortable. Electricity and heat but no running water. Restrooms nearby. It was camping but with a little extra comfort for this ole gal.

The sites are large and have firepits which we enjoyed as well as a picnic table where we ate most of our meals. Like any good camping trip there was plenty of good food, lots of beer, a couple margaritas and card games.

We had both a wood burning fire pit and a propane generated one

Close to the campground we enjoyed the following activities;

Grayland Beach

This gorgeous, long sandy beach is pure Washington coast. The kind of beach Washington State is known for. You are allowed to drive on the beach, and we parked on the hard sand and walked and walked on a sunny day. The season for razor clamming had just ended when we were visiting, and the beach was quiet and peaceful. We saw bald eagles, sandpipers and pelicans.

Cranberry Farms

There is a Cranberry Museum in Grayland, but unfortunately we missed it. But we really enjoyed driving around and looking at the acres and acres of cranberry bogs. Cranberry farms are abundant in this damp climate, many family-owned. Harvest traditionally runs from late September through early December. On the way into Grayland you can’t miss the Ocean Spray cranberry processing plant.

I realized how little I know about cultivation of cranberries!

Bottle Beach State Park & Ocosta by the Sea Ghost Town

We loved the walk through this wildlife reserve at Bottle Beach State Park where we spotted two new-to-us birds. This region was once a boom town known as Ocosta by the Sea and was proposed to be the Pacific terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad. Real estate was hot after that announcement and the town blossomed. But that all changed when the railroad terminus was changed to Tacoma.

Today, all that remains of the original boom town includes:

Historical Home: A majestic Queen Anne-style farmhouse sits atop a bluff on State Route 105 just before entering Ocosta.
Ocosta Grange Hall: This building, which served as a community dance hall in the 1960s, still stands today.
Bottle Beach State Park: The original townsite and its collapsed 2,900-foot wharf are now part of Bottle Beach State Park. Instead of buildings, beachcombers occasionally find historic glass bottles and railroad debris from the vanished development

In this marsh we spotted a Marsh Wren – an addition to our growing bird list

International Mermaid Museum and Westport Winery

We had to make a stop at the International Mermaid Museum, easily accessible right off the highway. Conveniently the Westport Winery is located right next door. This museum is dedicated to “teaching ocean ecology from seashore to sea floor immersed in mermaid mythology unifying oceanic cultures.”

The museum has an extensive collection of mermaid memorabilia; the well-done signage explains in detail the myth and lore of mermaids with a healthy dose of ocean ecology. Only $3 to enter, how can you not spend some time at the International Mermaid Museum? Check out the website for special events and activities throughout the year.

Right next door is the Westport Winery and Ocean’s Daughter Distillery, with a restaurant and nice gift shop. Tastings are $15 per person which you can put towards a purchase if you decide to bring some tasty local wine home.

Tokeland

The tiny town of Tokeland has a population of only about 120. It is home to commercial oyster and razor clam operations. It is also home to the historic Tokeland Hotel, Washington’s oldest. Built in 1885 it was originally a private home, and later served a population of wealthy travelers who arrived by boat. Today the hotel is fully restored and is listed on the National Register. It is known for its farm-to-table restaurant. While visiting the hotel we toured the tiny and beautiful garden and met the local pigs and chickens. I’d love to come back and stay a couple of nights.

Westport

Westport is the largest town in the area between the Pacific and inland Aberdeen. We headed out to Westport on our final evening. Home to the largest commercial and charter fishing fleet in Washington, a walk along the harbor to view some of the 180 boats is a must. It was cooler in Westport due to the wide open Pacific Ocean wind, so we bundled up. Our visit on a Tuesday in May found all the shops and most the restaurants closed.

Summer months in Westport you will find surfers in the ocean and families on the beach. A visit to the Westport Maritime Museum is a must any time of year.

We did find a wonderful restaurant called Bennett’s. It was really busy since most other places were closed, but we enjoyed a wonderful dinner in the cozy space. I loved the crab cakes and everyone else enjoyed cod or halibut and chips and chowder. Great beer selection too.

I would definitely order crab cakes again

Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Grayland

Grayland and surrounding area is often “gray” but we saw both blue and gray skies on our visit and only one rainy morning. Summer months are busier but also warmer. Fall is a great time to visit this coastal region. If you are interested in digging razor clams, you can find more information at the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

To enter the state parks mentioned here, and any state park in Washington, you must have a Washington Discover Pass. Find more info at the Washington State Parks website.

I am so glad we had three full days to enjoy the entire peninsula from Westport to Tokeland. If you are coming from the Kitsap Peninsula, stops in Shelton and Elma are nice. Alternatively if you are coming from Tacoma, Seattle or Olympia you will bypass Shelton but you might consider stops in Montesano or McCleary.

If you are making the Olympic National Park/Olympic Peninsula loop trip, venturing a bit south to see these beautiful beaches is a great add-on. See my post about the Olympic National Park here.

This part of the state is rural, beautiful, and home to hard-working people who bring farm and sea to your table. We are grateful for their work.

Always something interesting at the ocean beach

Thank you for reading my post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Grayland Washington. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Vashon Island.

More hidden gems next week. We are grateful for your comments, shares and pins. Thank you.

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Hidden Gems of the PNW – Vashon Island

May 22, 2026

Laureen

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Close to Seattle, Tacoma and the Kitsap Peninsula, it’s surprising how many locals never make the trek out to beautiful Vashon Island, a little hidden gem in the South Puget Sound accessible only by ferry. It’s a perfect day trip when visiting the Pacific Northwest. Let’s talk about it! Hidden Gems of the PNW – Vashon Island.

Mount Rainier in the distance from Point Robinson

Is Vashon Hidden?

Technically Vashon is hiding in plain sight. Suspiciously un-hidden, but a bit hard to access, making it a very special gem of a get-away. Three separate Washington State Ferry routes take residents and visitors to the island, which is nestled rather conspicuously in South Puget Sound. You can hop a ferry from Fauntleroy in Seattle, Point Defiance in Tacoma, or Southworth on the Kitsap Peninsula. But once on the island, public transportation is limited, so you really should bring your car. Having a car is going to give you access to a variety of fun little gems through out the 13 mile long island. If you are a cyclist, I highly recommend cycling the island. I’ve done it end to end several times and it makes a fabulous day.

Riding the ferry from Southworth to Vashon Island

A Little History

Vashon Island has a rich Puget Sound history originating with the S’Homamish people, a Coast Salish Native American people indigenous to the Pacific Northwest. The S’Homamish people historically inhabited the area around southern Vashon Island, Maury Island, the Tacoma Narrows, and what is now known as Gig Harbor.

Later the island became a renowned agricultural hub known for strawberries and a thriving Japanese-American farming community before WWII. Named by Captain George Vancouver in 1792, the island developed through logging, shipbuilding in Dockton, and eventually became a “charming, arts-focused” retreat accessible only by ferry.

Vashon was known for Strawberries for decades (Canva)

Key Historical Eras

Indigenous History: For centuries, the S’Homamish lived on the island, using its rich marine resources and hunting at the portage between Vashon and Maury Island.
European Exploration (1792): Captain George Vancouver explored the area and named the island after his friend, Captain James Vashon.
Settlement & Industry (Late 19th Century): Settlers arrived in the 1860s-1880s, establishing logging and fishing as primary industries.
The Strawberry Boom (1890-1940s): Vashon became famous for its strawberries, led by a large Japanese-American farming community that developed innovative, long-distance shipping methods.
WWII and Displacement (1942): Japanese-American families, who were integral to the island’s economy, were forced into internment camps, leaving a major mark on local history.
Modern Era: Post-war, the island transitioned from an agricultural center to a residential and artistic community, connected to the mainland via the Washington State Ferry system.

Day Trip Highlights

Today’s Vashon Island is home to about 11,000 full time residents. The population has remained steady over the past few decades due to access and land use restrictions. There are three “towns” on the island, the smaller historic town of Dockton, the very small and the larger current business center of Vashon Island (also called Uptown). We explored the following;

Point Robinson Light

The Point Robinson Light is an operational aid to navigation and historic lighthouse on Puget Sound. Located on the eastern shores of Maury Island, an easy drive from Vashon. The site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2004 and offers great views of Mount Rainier.

Way of The Bird King

Way of the Bird King is a public art project featuring sculptures of Nordic trolls made from recycled materials by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. This one (my favorite) on Vashon Island is adjacent to the Point Robinson Light and a do-not-miss on your visit. Learn more about all the Thomas Dambo Trolls in the PNW here.

Dockton & Burton

Dockton, located on Maury Island, was a major late-19th-century shipbuilding hub, home to the largest dry dock on the West Coast from 1892 to 1909. Founded due to the Puget Sound Dry Dock Company, it served the Mosquito Fleet and Pacific ships.

Burton, founded in 1910 was the home of Vashon College. Today it is primarily a residential area near beautiful Quartermaster Harbor with lovely restored homes and the historic Harbor Mercantile.

1910 Postcard of Burton shows the Vashon College in the upper right hand corner (Wikipedia)

The Country Store & Farm

Everything you might expect from a country store. You can find a gift or souvenir, buy a sun hat or a shovel. Perfectly curated The Country Store and Farm is worth a stop on your tour of Vashon Island.

Historic Mukai Farm

On my previous visits to Vashon I had not stopped at Mukai Farms. I was so glad we did this time. B.D. Denichiro Mukai arrived on Vashon in 1910 and became a successful berry grower and business man. Mukai purchased 60 acres of land in the center of Vashon in 1926, today the historic Mukai Farm. The farm is free for visitors to wander the gardens. This property has seen so much history and marks both an interesting and shameful past of anti-Japanese oppression, WWII exile, and the positive contribution of the innovative and hard working Japanese people of the island and the region.

Today the home is on the National Register of Historic Places and efforts are being made to restore the Cold Process Fruit Barrel Plant where the Mukai family created an innovative way of preserving and shipping fresh strawberries.

Mukai Farms Cold Press Barreling Facility

Uptown

“Uptown” is the local name for the charming, compact downtown district on Vashon Island, situated along Vashon Highway SW. It serves as the island’s bustling hub, featuring locally-owned shops, restaurants, art galleries, and a key four-way stop.

Many shops and restaurants and plenty of parking

Where to Eat

In past visits we have enjoyed delicious meals at The Hardware Store, but on this visit we decided to try something new. The Ruby Brink was amazing. Unpretentious exterior opens into a beautifully designed bar and restaurant that includes a butcher! We loved the country style terrine and I had the most delicious mortadella sandwich.

Great menu and beautiful setting at The Ruby Brink

And just around the corner don’t miss Dragon’s Head Cider Tasting Room. Excellent. They serve food too but we just enjoyed the tasty cider. Fresh and delicious with outdoor seating too.

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Vashon Island

Vashon Island is an easy half day or day trip, but you can also take it real slow and spend the night. It’s fun to arrive by one ferry like Southworth and depart by another like Fauntleroy. This is what we did on a loop from our home in Port Orchard then on to visit our son in Ballard. Plan your Vashon Island trip soon. Spring and Fall are my favorites – summer weekends can be busy so plan ahead for your ferry selection. See the Washington State Ferry schedule here.

Thanks for reading my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Vashon Island. Whether you are a local or a visitor, you will enjoy the laid back quiet experience that is Vashon Island.

See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Heronswood Gardens. We are always grateful for your comments, pin and shares and you will never see advertising on our blog posts. More hidden gems coming…follow us!

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Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Heronswood Gardens

May 15, 2026

Laureen

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Location: Kingston Washington USA

For years I have heard about Heronswood Gardens, less than an hour from my home on the Kitsap Peninsula. It’s one of those places you always are going to get to, but somehow for me it just had never happened. Until this month. I am happy to say I finally visited this unique and beautiful botanical gardens. Let me tell you about Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest Heronswood Gardens.

Enjoying my first visit to Heronswood Gardens, Kingston Washington

History

Established in 1987 by horticulturist Dan Hinkley and architect Robert L. Jones, the world renowned 15-acre Botanical Garden sits hidden just outside of Kingston Washington. Known for rare plants collected from around the world by Hinkley and others, the gardens drew garden and plant lovers from around the globe.

In the year 2000 Heronswood was sold to W. Atlee Burpee Company, but fell into disrepair after the company’s 2006 bankruptcy. Neglected for six years, the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe purchased the property in 2012 and has brought it lovingly back to life, expanding it to 15 acres.

I loved the meandering paths of the Renaissance Garden

Heronswood Today

With the distinction of being the only botanic gardens in the U.S. owned and operated by a tribal nation, the Port Gamble S’Kallam Tribe has made it once again a thriving garden and a cherished part of the North Kitsap Community. Heronswood protects a vast array of plants from around the world, with over 8,000 different varieties spread across six distinct yet integrated gardens.

Heronswood is open to visitors from 9am-3pm Wednesday to Sunday (with different hours in the winter). Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children. Free for Heronswood Garden Members.

Events

Heronswood offers multiple events throughout the year including classes, kids events, holiday events and even yoga. One of the biggest events of the year is the annual Native Plant Sale. The day we visited Heronswood was to participate in this event. Multiple vendors provide unique and beautiful plants for garden lovers to purchase and take home. On the day of the Native Plant Sale, the gardens are open for free.

Hundreds of people lined up for the annual Native Plant Sale

Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest Heronswood Gardens

Now that I have finally made my way to this hidden gem, I know I will be returning at least annually and maybe more. I am very interested to see how the gardens change throughout the seasons. It’s such a peaceful and beautiful treasure. Make time to see it yourself.

Get directions to Heronswood Gardens here.

Learn more about Heronswood Gardens here.

Thank you for reading my post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest Heronswood Gardens. If you haven’t visited, you really should. I know I’ll be back. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest Stadium District Tacoma.

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Hidden Gems of the PNW – Stadium District Tacoma

May 8, 2026

Laureen

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Location: Tacoma Washington USA

Growing up on the Kitsap Peninsula in the Pacific Northwest, a trip to Tacoma was a special treat. We made the trek to the Tacoma Mall a couple times a year, usually for school shopping and Christmas shopping. But I grew up not knowing anything else about Tacoma. Only years later as an adult have I discovered all of Tacoma’s treasures. Today in this post I want to share a little bit about Hidden Gems of the PNW – Stadium District Tacoma.

View of Commencement Bay beyond the Stadium Bowl

Pretty Gritty Tours

First, a shout out to Pretty Gritty Tours. I have been following Chris from Pretty Gritty Tours for awhile on Instagram, and recently took the Stadium High School tour. Amazing! I learned so much about this beautiful and historic building, it inspired this post about Tacoma’s Stadium District. You need to check out all the tours and activities offered at Pretty Gritty Tours. I hope to do the Brewery Row Tour next. Pretty Gritty Tours is worth a follow not only for Hidden Gems of the PNW – Stadium District Tacoma, but for so much more Tacoma treasures.

With my husband, our first time touring the iconic Stadium High School

A Bit of History

Tacoma’s Stadium District, anchored by the iconic 1906 “Brown Castle” (Stadium High School), evolved from a failed 1890s luxury hotel project into a vibrant historic neighborhood. Named for the 1910 Stadium Bowl—originally built in a ravine known as Old Woman’s Gulch—the district features grand residential architecture from 1888–1930 and classic neighborhood shops.

Well done history signage in the district

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Stadium District

The Hotel that Wasn’t (1891–1893): The Northern Pacific Railroad began building a luxury hotel, but the economic panic of 1893 halted construction, leaving a massive, abandoned brick shell.
A New Purpose (1900s): Following a 1898 fire, the Tacoma School District acquired the building. Architect Frederick Heath redesigned it into Tacoma High School, opening in 1906.
Stadium Bowl (1910): The adjacent “stadium” was constructed in a ravine, originally holding 32,000 spectators for events ranging from presidential speeches to rodeos.
Residential Growth: Developed between 1888 and 1930, the surrounding district features early residential suburban architecture, with many homes overlooking Commencement Bay.

Today’s Charming Stadium District

Walkable, authentic and beautiful, today’s Stadium District is home to many North Tacoma residents, some of the city’s most beautiful historic homes and iconic views. Stadium District is close to Tacoma’s amazing Wright Park and W.W. Seymour Conservatory. Stadium High School, a cultural icon, gained fame as the filming location for the 1999 movie 10 Things I Hate About You with Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles.

So rare to see a locally owned and operated pharmacy anymore. This is Ranko’s Pharmacy at this corner since 1935.

The district remains a blend of history and commerce, home to long-standing spots like Ranko’s Pharmacy (since 1935), Parkway Tavern (since 1935), and Frisko Freeze (since 1950), as well as several other great restaurants.

A true hidden gem and local favorite, The Parkway Tavern since 1935

Stadium Thriftway has been a community staple since the early 1990s, occupying a building with a rich retail history. Originally a Safeway in the 1930s-40s, the site later operated as Arney’s, Big Bear in the 1950s-60s, and Lucky before becoming a Thriftway. Nearly 100 years of serving residents of the neighborhood.

Exceptional quality market Stadium Thriftway.

The “big church” in the Stadium District of Tacoma is the First Presbyterian Church of Tacoma. Completed in 1925, this landmark features a prominent 160-foot tower originally used to guide ships into the port, and is recognized for its Romanesque architecture.

First Presbyterian Church of Tacoma since 1925

Stadium High School

The Grande Dame of the neighborhood and the jewel of The Tacoma School District, Stadium High School underwent a major reconstruction in 2004. It is a registered national landmark and worth a visit with Pretty Gritty Tours. I can’t recommend that enough. Not only will you see every floor of the school you also will visit the attic and the basement. So very cool.

I highly recommend a tour of the beautiful Stadium High Scool

The original theater. A new larger theater was built nearby.

The entrance to the attic in Stadium High School

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Stadium District

Tacoma is a beautiful city often overlooked by it’s larger neighbor Seattle. It’s time for you to discover Tacoma’s Treasures, including the Stadium District. I have written a lot about Tacoma over the years, and there is much more to this manageable city. You can type Tacoma into the search bar and find more suggestions including this one covering much of Tacoma’s Hidden Gems.

Thanks for reading my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Stadium District. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Emish Market. More hidden gems coming throughout the summer.

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Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Emish Market

May 1, 2026

Laureen

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Location: Fife Washington USA

Hidden in Fife Washington just off the I-5 corridor is a marvelous Ukrainian/European Market waiting to be discovered. What an unexpected treat to find this Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest Emish Market.

Authentic

Opened in 2021, this beautiful market offers a wide range of imported Ukrainian and European foods. In addition, the in-house bakery is pumping out traditional breads and sweets and is a definite hidden gem. But there is more! House made sausage, beautiful flowers and produce, and a popular deli and lunch spot not to be missed.

Wide selection of Ukrainian and European imported foods

What’s for lunch?

We came for lunch and went away full and satisfied. Eastern European specialties like Borscht and Pirogi (two of my favorites) as well as Shawarma, sushi, soups, quiche and much more. Such a surprise and all very reasonably priced. See the cafe menu here. The guests enjoying lunch in the small cafe were conversing in several European languages, so you know it must be authentic if it’s drawing that crowd.

I’m a big fan of Pirogi. It’s hard to make at home and now I know where to get it!

Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Emish Market

I don’t get to Fife often, it’s one of those places you fly by on the freeway. But now I have a new reason to visit Fife and the fun and delicious Emish Market. I hope you will check it out too. Bring your appetite!

Thanks for reading my post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Emish Market. We are happy to be back sharing about the wonderful Pacific Northwest after a few months off. More PNW posts coming soon!

See last week’s post Total Knee Replacement – My Journey here.

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At Home -- Inspire

Total Knee Replacement – My Journey

Let’s Talk About It

April 24, 2026

Laureen

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I am now seven weeks into my Total Knee Replacement (TKR) journey. Boy oh boy this is hard. If you are considering TKR, I recommend you talk to many different people, because everyone recovers differently. But if I can be of help by telling you my story, I am glad to. Let’s talk about Total Knee Replacement – My Journey.

Decisions, Decisions

What brought on my need for TKR? Well at 66 years old I can only assume it was a collection of many things; high school cheer leading, high heel shoes in my twenties and thirties, running half marathons in my fifties and sixties. All of these or just one of them could be factors in the onset of arthritis and the demise of the cartilage in my right knee.

The pain in my knee began several weeks after I completed a half marathon. I did not have pain leading up to that run or during that run. It came on suddenly several weeks after. I rested, iced and stopped running for a few months. But the pain continued. Over a period of two years I had several cortisone shots and one hyaluronic acid shot and did a lot of physical therapy. My attempts to get back to running only brought the pain back. And so it was time to make some decisions.

I Love Running

The realization that I was no longer a runner was a mental and emotional blow to me. I love to run. It is therapy for me. It also provided me the activity I needed to lose and maintain weight loss. I felt healthier in my early sixties than I had my entire life. But the pain was too much. I decided on surgery.

Nearing the finish line, one of dozens of half marathons I ran

But as soon as I stopped running, and was doing long walks instead, most of the pain subsided. I kept wondering if I could delay surgery longer. How much longer? Since we travel so much, I was concerned about unexpected crippling pain while I was abroad. I just didn’t think I should take the chance. So, we blocked out six months for me to tackle the surgery.

I continued to golf last summer wearing a brace

I also did a lot of hiking on my favorite mountain last summer wearing a brace

Listen

Yes you should listen to your doctor. You should also listen to people you know who have been through TKR. And most of all you should listen to your body. Despite the fact that I am generally in very good shape, and have a normal positive outlook, I still have had a difficult recovery from surgery. Everyone is different. While some people are walking around at two weeks and driving at three, other people are still struggling at 4 months or more. Don’t assume anything, your body will tell you what kind of recovery you will have. Dig in and work hard. Don’t rush.

All smiles before the pain killers wore off on the day of my surgery

What I learned

I learned that my usual high pain tolerance would be put to the test with this invasive and difficult surgery.

I learned that the first 48 hours would be the easiest of the entire journey and that week two and three would be the worst.

I learned that pain killers are your friend, and don’t try to be macho and not take them. This surgery is by far the most painful thing I have ever done.

I learned working hard ahead of surgery on quad strength is imperative, and doing pre-hab physical therapy is a really good idea.

What my very swollen knee looked like on day two

I learned that everyone is different – a buckling of the knee post surgery has plagued me since the beginning. This is unusual but not unheard of and has caused me a longer recovery.

I learned how much I would need my home caregiver for so many things, especially in the first few weeks. My husband has been an angel and I salute those of you who have recovered without a live in mate.

I learned that constant physical therapy starting immediately after surgery is painful but necessary. Slow but steady progress will come out of that work. I do PT at a clinic twice a week and at home 2-3 times a day. It’s important to be dedicated to this work no matter how much it hurts.

What’s Next?

I plan to continue my physical therapy into July…four months after surgery. Why? Luckily I have good insurance that will allow me that, and because I want to be as strong and as normal as possible by the end of the summer. We plan to start international travel again on September 1st. My entire focus is being ready by that date.

Week five trying to do normal things. That’s my son with me in Seattle.

I don’t expect to be perfect by then, generally recovery continues for most people up to a year. But by September 1st I want to be walking properly, hiking carefully and able to endure a long flight. These are my goals, for my travel life, my future health and a Total Knee Replacement- My Journey.

Total Knee Replacement – My Journey

I am grateful to all my friends and family who have reached out with love and kindness. And grateful to those of you who have inquired to my journey, asked questions and are interested in my story. This blog post is for you. Happy to answer any questions in the comments or in a private message.

Thanks as always for you continued love and support.

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At Home

Taking a Break

Putting My Health First

March 6, 2026

Laureen

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Well I’ve put it off for three years, and now I just can’t wait anymore. I’m taking a break to have knee replacement surgery. I’m allowing myself about six months to recover, so I will be laying low at home. Our next international travel isn’t until September 1st.

Looking forward to being back on my mountain and healthy

Putting My Health First

I want to continue to be active well into my 80’s. I also want to continue to travel well into my 70’s. So I take my health seriously. We eat healthy and lead a very active life. After my 2021 surgery for diverticulosis, I swore I wasn’t going to put my body through a major surgery again. But, here I am. Ces’t la vie.

Taking a Break

So while I focus on my recovery through the summer, I am taking a break. You will continue to see book reviews, at least for a while as I have several already written and scheduled. But as for travel blogs, there won’t be many. Possibly a few local Pacific Northwest posts once summer is underway. It also is a good time for me to do a little background work on the blog, cleaning, fixing and updating.

Please Don’t Forget Us

We will be back. We have a wonderful itinerary of international travel planned September, October and November. You won’t want to miss it as we visit new to us places like Greenland, Svalbard, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Azores and more. So please don’t forget us.

Until Then

Until then, I’m taking a break. Thanks for all your support, and we will talk soon. See last week’s post Let’s Talk Tamales here.

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At Home

The History of Halloween

Celtic Origins We Celebrate Today

October 31, 2025

Laureen

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Note my facts about The History of Halloween come from The History of Halloween from History.com

As an adult I look back on so many fond memories of my 1960’s and 70’s childhood, including Halloween. As soon as school began in September we began thinking about and planning for that big day. We always made our own costumes just from found things around the house…never sewing anything elaborate and NEVER purchasing anything from a store.

Halloween When I Was a Kid

Unfortunately my parents were not big photo takers so I have only one photo I know of, of me with my siblings on Halloween. That was the year my sister proclaimed she was going to be the Fairy Godmother and I was going to be Cinderella in rags. Okay fine. My brother was a “hippie” and my littlest brother was a cowboy. It was a time in life when it didn’t take a lot ot make us happy.

In high school and even college we celebrated the holiday with homemade costumes but the trick or treating gave way to parties. Here I’m sharing a few photos I pulled up from those days.

Halloween When My Kids Were Little

When my kids were little I made their costumes most years and we had a lot of fun with Halloween as a family. In the 1990’s when my kids were young, trick or treating was still safe and the school always had a special event with costumes.

Today fewer kids wander the streets, but neighborhoods often have gatherings in safe places.

The History of Holidays

I’ve always been fascinated with how our holidays evolved into what we accept today as normal, ever since I discovered that Santa Claus is a fairly new invention. So I have over the years gathered lots of fun information about holiday rituals and their evolution.

Halloween Began 2000 Years Ago

The origin of Halloween can be traced 2000 years ago to the Celtic festival called Samhain. This festival was a celebration to ward off ghosts and included costumes and bonfires.

Ghosts were responsible for death and havoc

In the 8th Century Pope Gregory III declared that November 1st would be All Saints Day to remember all Catholic Saints and the Samhain festival the day before became known as All Hallows Eve.

November 1st was also considered the New Year to the Celts and was marked as the end of the harvest and bounty and the beginning of the dark days of winter, a time of hunger and death.

People believed black cats were witches in disguise

The Druids (Celtic Priests) gave the Celtic people guidance during this time, when all believed the ghosts were responsible for failed crops, poor health and bad weather. The Druids built bonfires and everyone dressed in costumes to scare away the ghosts. Crops and animals were sacrificed.

Rome, Of Course, Intervened

When the Romans conquered this region, the Samhain festival merged with Feralia, a Roman festival similar to Day of the Dead; and Pomona, a celebration of the apple harvest (assumed to be where bobbing for apples comes from).

Christianity

By the 9th century the Celtic lands had become Christian and the November 2nd Christian holiday All Souls Day merged with All Hallows Eve (Alholowmesse) and the costume tradition expanded.

Welcome to America

Colonial America celebrated this holiday, despite the New England Protestant objection due to the pagan origins. As immigrants from many nations came together, the American version of the holiday emerged.

Early Jack-o-lanterns were carved from turnips

Outdoor parties, bonfires, scary stories, fortune telling, pranks, games, music and dancing were all part of the early American celebration. By the early 1800’s most communities celebrated an Autumn festival but Halloween as we know it was still a ways away.

Irish Americans Bring the Tradition

As Irish immigrants flooded America in the late 19th century, with them came many of the traditions we today associate with Halloween in the USA. This included costumes, Trick-or-Treat for food or money, and the focus of the holiday became more about children.

Bobbing for apples is an ancient game still practiced today

But in the 1920’s and 30’s vandals hijacked the holiday with pranks and sometimes drunken violence and many gatherings stopped. By the 1950’s local towns redirected the holiday back to family-focused and encouraged family gatherings. Trick-or-Treating was revived.

Today’s Halloween

Small homemade treats gave way to store bought candy in the 1960’s when parents feared for their children eating anything they didn’t know the source of. Today 6 billion dollars are spent annually on Halloween and it is the biggest candy buying time of the year in the USA.

Both children and adults dress up annually, with many adults wearing costumes to their jobs. Halloween parties for kids and adults happen in the weeks ahead of the actual Halloween night.

Halloween is the second biggest commercial holiday after Christmas in the USA.

And now you know – the history of Halloween.

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