Visiting Puget Sound

The northwest corner of Washington, beginning at the city of Blaine on the Canadian border, through Bellingham and down to Olympia on the south end of of Puget Sound, is a travelers paradise. From the sizzle and excitement of the City, to the peaceful beauty of a small San Juan island, any vacation dream can come true. The estuaries of the Pacific Ocean fan out in Puget Sound into a web of inlets, and channels. The waterways of Puget Sound are critical to the regions economy, natural beauty, and outdoor recreation.

On the border of Canada and the city of Blaine, a Peace Arch was constructed to celebrate and foster peace between the US and Canada. This is the only monument in the world built with this intent. Through April of 2010, the surrounding park is hosting the Peace Arch International Sculpture Exhibit. Juried selections, from international artists, are nestled among the gardens of the park. With spring blooms and the magnificent sculptures, this is a perfect time to visit the park.

Bellingham, is not only a gateway to Mt Baker, it is a City full of fun and exciting activities. A great place to celebrate a “green” St Patrick's Day, Bellingham's parade will feature human and green powered floats. Bring the entire family to see the dancers, bagpipe and marching bands. While you are there, join the Runnin' O' the Green. With a 2 mile fun run or walk, and a 5 mile race – everyone can participate, regardless of ability. Come back near Bellingham in April for Dirty Dan Days Seafood Festival in Fairhaven. The schedule features several unique events you won't want miss. There is a fish fillet contest, a salmon toss, the cupcake eating contest and chowder cook-off – plus some non-food fun as well, with art exhibits and toy boat building.

Island living is a definitive culture of the region. Towns like Friday Harbor, and Oak Harbor are favorite getaways for nearby city dwellers. With waterways buffered miles away from the pacific, Puget Sound is a playground for sailing, kayaking and boating. By boat or bridge, head to Oak Harbor in April for the Holland Happening, a festival celebrating the dutch heritage of the island. The three day schedule includes a family carnival, street fair, canal races mixed with lots of food and fun.

Olympia and Tacoma, at the south end of Puget sound celebrate spring with some unique festivals and activities. The Fifth Annual Dragon Boat Festival, hosted Saint Martin's University, is held the last weekend in April. Dating back to origins as an ancient Chinese protest, dragon boat racing has evolved as a festival and fun event. Join the spectators to watch over 24 elaborately decorated boats compete and race.

Tacoma, the hometown of glass artist Dale Chihuly, and is home to the Museum of Glass. Welcoming visitors to the city, the Chihuly Bridge of Glass, connects downtown Tacoma to the waterway across the freeway. Worth a visit to the City on it's own, the Bridge is a 500 ft pedestrian walkway featuring several large scale, breathtaking glass installations.

Make Best Western Hotels throughout Washington's northwest your lodging choice. For a weekend, overnight or a vacation, Best Western Hotel locations are convenient as well as affordable. Start your travels with Best Western.

Puget Sound Hotel Map