Evergreen
Monday, June 18th, 2007
If you live north of Seattle and you’re looking for things to do without battling traffic all day on I-5, perhaps Everett has your answers. I know, I know, Everett isn’t exactly known as the hippest and most happening place in the Puget Sound area, but you really can find some wonderful places to visit within the city limits.
For instance, the 2.4 acre Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens is a pleasant place in which to wander. It’s tucked into the west side of Everett’s Legion Park. A lot of people don’t know about it, so don’t expect the crowds you get in many of Seattle’s parks and gardens.
Enjoy the views of Puget Sound as you wander through the various areas such as the Conifer Garden, the Dahlia Garden, the Japanese Maple Grove, the Woodland Garden, and the Urban Tree Walk (check the arboretum’s web site for pictures of these gardens and other sites in the park). While you’re there, you can swipe ideas for your home garden or just take a picnic and enjoy strolling through the natural surroundings.
The Evergreen Arboretum is open daily from dawn to 10 p.m. and admission is free.
For some people, the ideal day trip involves getting outdoors and exercising. For others, a day off means time to shop. If you’re in the latter camp (or just like to do both), then you may enjoy the discounts and variety you can find at outlet stores.
Ah, the beauties and wonders of Oregon, the beach, Portland, and of course, cheese! Well, maybe that’s a bit of a stretch, but I do like cheese and Tillamook Cheddar is really tasty! If you want to see a commercial cheese factory in operation, this is a great destination. They have a thorough self-guided tour complete with maps and kiosks that will let you explore at your own pace. I know that I’m often the one who wants to spend forever reading placards and the guide is three rooms beyond me. This way, my friends can speed along and I’ll be able to meet up with them in the Farmhouse Cafe, or atthe Fudge or Ice Cream counter. Where they can sample to their heart’s content.
As a kid, I remember taking a trip to the state capitol in Olympia. It was a long drive and it seemed like it was never going to end. Once we got there though, the big buildings were kind of cool, made of marble and all. Times have definitely changed and I’ve gotten old and boring. Rocks are now interesting. Over the summer, I might make a jaunt down there with this handy brochure and find out just where the stone source of all of these buildings came from. 
If you’re looking for something to do on a sunny weekend, why not drive up to Skagit Valley to visit the 24th Annual Tulip Festival? These colorful flowers are in bloom now, and you can sign up for tours that will drive you through the tulip fields, while giving you some history and interesting information. 
Blake Island is right in the heart of Puget Sound, yet it’s really a world away. Designated as a State Park, the island is only accessable by boat. This trip is something everyone should do, but yet most Seattleites haven’t made a trip out here, and many haven’t even heard of it. Blake Island hosts 5 miles of beaches as well as Tillicum Village, a show piece of traditional Northwest Native American dancing and potlatch style food.The Northwest has a strong Native American community and this location allows others a quick glimpse into the culture.