Visiting Puget Sound

Puget Sound in Washington State extends from Deception Pass State Park in the north to Olympia in the south. A complex system of waterways and estuaries that are now integrated into life in the Northwest. Charming cities like Oak Harbor, now connected to the mainland by Deception Pass Bridge, once relied on the water alone for transportation off Whidbey Island. Cities like Mt Vernon, east on the mainland (actually named after President George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate), can be reached via automobile heading north on Highway 20, over the bridge to I-5. Interstate 5 parallels the eastern side of Puget sound, running south through the Seattle and Tacoma metro areas and through Olympia.

A 4th of July celebration doesn't get better than Oak Harbor's ol' fashioned festivities. Widbey Island is home to Naval Air Station Widbey Island, who kicks off the day with an exciting flyover marking the start of the annual parade. The celebration continues through the day, culminating at night with a spectacular fireworks show over the bay. A fun family event and great place to enjoy the 4th of July. The Best Western Harbor Plaza Inn and Conference Center in Oak Harbor is ideal for spending a few days on Widbey Island. Quality amenities at an affordable price make a good choice for travelers to Oak Harbor.

Maryville's signature summer festival is the Maryville Strawberry Festival. The 2010 event is June 11th through June 20th. The theme for the 79th annual event this year is Summertime Fun ~ a fitting moniker for a fun and entertaining celebration. The Second Annual Kid's Party in the Park features Reptile Man and Ronald McDonald among the entertainment. Performers include live music, dance and even a hypnotist in the line-up. You won't want to miss the strawberry shortcake eating contest and adult trike races – unique and crazy events for summer fun!

Everett Washington, just south of Marysville off I-5, kicks off a healthy summer June 5th with Get Movin' ~ a free summer program for family fitness. Test your summer fitness at the Yankee Doodle Dash in Everett on the 4th of July. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to participate. Events include a 10k, 5K and one mile race for runners, walkers and wheelers. The Yankee Doodle Dash begins a full day of celebration. The city of Everett hosts a downtown parade complete with marching bands, clowns and drill teams. Head to Legion Park for an afternoon picnic and live entertainment. Kids will love the special activity area with art and games. A traditional fireworks display tops off the evening after dark and a full day of fun and activities.

Three Best Western Hotels are located in Marysville and Everett ~ the Best Western Tulalip Inn in Marysville, the Best Western Navigator Inn and Suites and the Best Western Cascadia Inn, in Everett. Convenient for Travelers staying in the area to enjoy these wonderful community events, the affordable rates and amenities are ideal.