Exploring the Outskirts of Seattle

Seattle is a wonderful city that has so much to offer! I lived there for 7 years and will always cherish my time there. There are many parts of the city: Downtown, Belltown, Fremont, Ballard, Greenlake, Queen Anne, the U-District, Magnolia, Capitol Hill, Wallingford, Sunset Hill, and the list literally goes on and on! But what this post will focus on is more of the outskirts of Seattle. If you are willing to make a 30 or so minute drive, then you will truly be in for a treat!

Red Twig in Edmonds, WA

Red Twig is a phenomenal bakery/cafe that roasts their own coffee on the premises, as well as bakes fresh bread and pastries daily! Their menu has unique options that changes with the seasons. They serve yummy egg dishes and scrumptious crepes. I love their paninis and salads, and they have a mean Lemon Bar and Peanut Butter Chocolate Bar! (When it's not raining), they have a lovely patio outside. Also, near Red Twig is Anthony's Beach Cafe... a beachfront restaurant that serves fresh fish and many other items! A great family spot where kids can play in the sand.

Chateau Ste. Michelle in Woodinville, WA

This is a beautiful winery, one of a kind really. The grounds are gorgeous and fun to walk around. They have a summer concert series on their huge lawn amphitheater; a great place to bring a picnic, wine and cheese and enjoy some music. Their tasting tours are awesome, in fact the "Columbia Valley Tour" is free of charge and lasts about 35 minutes. They also have other Tour options ranging from $10-$75 per person.

Right across the street, you will find Columbia Winery! Definitely have to check both of these wineries out!

The Golf Club at Newcastle in Newcastle, WA

I actually worked here for a year as the Beverage Cart Girl. I LOVED coming to work everyday not only for the amazing view, but also because the staff was so friendly and accomodating! I was proud to work there because the customer always came first. The 2 golf courses are truly breath-taking, and the restaurant offers a delicious menu! Anything you order will be awesome.
Snoqualmie Falls in Snoqualmie, WA

I was going to say that there is a great hiking trail around these falls, but I just looked at their website and apparently the trail is closed until 2013! ;-( However, the observation deck, the 2-acre park, and of course the 270 ft. falls are well worth the trip! There is also a great little restaurant up there or you can bring a picnic!