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Friday Harbor House Weekend Getaway

Island life is slow and beautiful in Friday Harbor. Here, the streets feature roundabouts rather than stoplights and restaurants showcase farm-to-table cuisine. Perched one block above the Friday Harbor Marina, is ideally positioned for the ultimate weekend getaway.

This quaint San Juan Island hotel offers expansive views of seaplanes landing and ferry boats docking. It’s conveniently located within walking distance of the entire downtown core, while still feeling removed enough to give you a sense of solitude. Not to mention, it’s home to one the best restaurants on the island — The Restaurant at Friday Harbor House.

July 6, 2025/by Mikaela Judd

kenmore air seaplane flying into victoria inner harbour

5 Ways to Get from Seattle to Victoria, BC

Things to do in Seattle, Things to do in Victoria

kenmore air flying into victoria inner harbour

While Victoria is closer to American soil than its British Columbia mainland, it feels a bit like traveling to Europe. (It’s 75 miles from the Emerald City and just 28 miles from the closest US town, Friday Harbor.) Sure, the watery border can make you think twice about the best way to get to Victoria BC.

But if you know your options, getting there can be just as much fun as being there. The following outlines the five top ways to travel between this Vancouver Island metropolis and Washington’s high-tech hub — including a scenic seaplane flight!

January 29, 2025/by Mikaela Judd

9 Ways to Get from Seattle to the San Juan Islands

Things to do in Seattle, Things to do in the San Juan Islands

�鶹��Ƶ de Havilland Otter flying past Cattle Point Lighthouse

Though the quaint archipelago tucked within the Salish Sea is technically part of Washington State, it feels a bit like its own country. Heck, some of its rocky inlets are closer to Canada than they are to the American mainland. But the 172-plus islands in the Olympic Rainshadow don’t require a passport and are relatively easy to access — if you know what you’re doing.

The following outlines 9 ways to travel from Seattle to the San Juan Islands. But at its most primitive level, there are only two ways to get here: by boat or plane. The nature of being surrounded by water on all sides makes this remote destination exactly that, remote. That’s part of the charm, part of what keeps this paradise a destination worthy of visiting year-round.

And the great news is, whether you’re flying from Boeing Field to Friday Harbor or catching a seaplane from Lake Union to Roche Harbor — the views are endless and check-in is a breeze!

January 10, 2025/by Mikaela Judd

Friday Harbor Golden Hour. Photo by BrendanHunter

Relaxing Winter Escape to San Juan Island

Things to do in the San Juan Islands

Friday Harbor Golden. Photo by BrendanHunter

Washington’s gourmet archipelago is undoubtedly known for its sun-filled summer days and fruit-laden farmers markets. But don’t assume this sweet little paradise closes up shop during the winter. While some businesses and residents like to hibernate until spring, there are still plenty of relaxing things to do on San Juan Island during the holidays.

In fact, visiting the San Juan’s during the winter might even be your favorite! The slower pace and lack of crowds give you more freedom to linger and enjoy your getaway. Not to mention, getting to San Juan Island from Seattle is as easy as catching a 45-minute scenic flight from Boeing Field!

December 12, 2024/by Mikaela Judd

Christmas at the Parliament Buildings in Victoria BC

Christmas in Victoria B.C. at the Fairmont Empress & Beyond

Things to do in Victoria

Christmas in Victoria, B.C., is a magical experience. The city transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive lights, seasonal events, and charming traditions. The world-renowned flower displays at The �鶹��Ƶ become a dazzling display of lights, while the iconic Fairmont Empress turns into a winter wonderland filled with charm and intrigue.

November 2, 2024/by Mikaela Judd

Dinner at Clives Classic Lounge by Chef Josh Chilton

Clive’s Classic Lounge Chef Josh Chilton

Things to do in Victoria

Dinner spread at Clives Classic Lounge by Chef Josh Chilton

Come for the craft cocktails. Stay for the fuss-free, locally sourced cuisine.

Clive’s Classic Lounge has the essence of a sultry speakeasy — a windowless bar, moody lighting, and plush seating where one might linger a little closer to their partner.

October 29, 2024/by Mikaela Judd

Victoria Hot Tub Boats — A Sightseeing Float

Things to do in Victoria

Victoria Hot Tub Boats in the Inner Harbour

Despite Victoria’s sunny weather, you might think twice about donning your swimsuit for a dip in the B.C. capital’s Inner Harbour. Even during August, the average water temperature is around 52.7°F (11.5°C). But those who want to take a dip (while skipping the cold plunge) can take heart. You can rent a Hot Tub Boat to enjoy a warm, scenic float.

October 10, 2024/by Mikaela Judd

Seattle Fall Getaway Guide — Home-Based at The State Hotel

Things to do in Seattle

With a blend of natural beauty and urban charm, Seattle is a bucket list destination. Whether you’re sipping coffee at Pike Place Market, taking in the stunning views from The State Hotel’s rooftop bar or watching the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena — there’s a plethora of iconic things to do in Seattle. Here the misty fall mornings and crips days are as vibrant as the neighborhoods and quirky art.

October 3, 2024/by Mikaela Judd

Victoria BC Fall Escape to Inn at Laurel Point

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Thanks to its natural beauty and cultural charm, Victoria, BC is one of those exquisite destinations that just gets better with every changing season. A fall escape to the Inn at Laurel Point is no exception. Nestled on a small peninsula in Victoria’s Inner Harbour, this waterfront retreat offers a peaceful destination within the city’s core.

September 26, 2024/by Mikaela Judd

Meet Lake Union Manager, Tyler Grimes

Kenmore Family

As a young boy, Tyler Grimes watched �鶹��Ƶ seaplanes take off and land from Lake Union Park. He never imagined that 20-plus years later, he’d be watching those same planes as �鶹��Ƶ’s Lake Union Manager.

“It’s just wild to have come full circle and realize this is where I actually watched them take off as a boy,” Tyler said.

September 13, 2024/by Mikaela Judd