Trip Itineraries

A Weekend In Snohomish

If you only have a weekend to spend in Snohomish, WA – that would be a shame. Recognized as one of the Top 10 Coolest Small Towns in America, the historic community of Snohomish is kind of like Mayberry, only with high-speed internet.

As the oldest and best-preserved city in Snohomish County, Snohomish is listed on both the Washington State and National Register of Historic Places. Today, you can stroll along riverfront trails or walk through historic tree-lined neighborhoods that still provide identical views seen by the First People of Snohomish (The Sdohdoh-hohbsh) or the early pioneer settlers who expanded commerce on First Street.

There are plenty of recreational activities to fill a weekend, but if you only have a day to spend, pick and choose from any of these fun activities.

FRIDAY

If you’re a fan of the traditional American breakfast served with gigantic portions, then bring your stretchy pants to Jake’s Cafe on Second Street. This tiny, but lively casual diner is filled with fun, kitschy memorabilia and loads of character. Jake’s proudly makes all their meals from scratch, including their biscuits.

Walk off your breakfast and enjoy the scenic views found along the Snohomish Riverfront Trail. Snohomish is known as a biking destination because of the safe riding conditions of the Centennial Trail. But the Snohomish Riverfront Trail also deserves its accolades for walkability and proximity to downtown.

The retail shops on First Street are a huge draw, with diverse offerings from new apparel to vintage threads. Snohomish has a reputation for having tons of antique stores, but that’s not all this main street has to offer. Lots of shops carrying new home interiors, art galleries, and outdoor gear can be found in town too.

Pro Tip: If you’re a stitching aficionado, venture up to Second Street to explore Quilting Mayhem, a 17,000 square foot fabric superstore filled with notions, patterns, sewing machines, and other quilting supplies.

For a clam dish you won’t forget, be sure to check out Roger’s Riverview Bistro. Rich pasta, hearty lamb dishes and of course, fresh NW seafood are beautifully prepared by classically trained Chef, Roger Eydt.

SATURDAY

Step into the tranquil sanctuary of Mariposa Day Spa for a relaxing massage. You’ll be greeted with a nice cup of herbal tea while eucalyptus and lemon verbena completely envelop your senses. Solo treatments or duet services for side-by-side couples massage or girlfriend spa parties are offered too.

For a light lunch that won’t kill your relaxed vibe, grab a lite bite at Christa’s Sandwichboard. The Sweet Kale salad is packed with dried cranberries, pepita seeds and broccoli in a bright poppy seed dressing that is filling but not overwhelming

One of the surprising things you will discover about historic downtown Snohomish is how many boutique wine tasting venues there are – 5 within walking distance of each other.

While you’re at Randolph Cellars, plan to stay for dinner with their sister restaurant, Pace Kitchen. Grab a seat on the back patio that overlooks the Snohomish River for an intimate fine dining experience. Watch hot air balloons soar while you ooh and awe over Chef Joe Pace’s sophisticated farm to table delicacies that complement Randolph Cellars award-winning wines.

After dinner, head over to Tim Noah’s Thumbnail Theater to catch a live show in a historic 100-year-old church that has been converted into an intimate, cozy concert space. Performances vary each night.

SUNDAY

For an eggy, cheezy, delectable omelet, look no further than Collector’s Choice, a Snohomish staple for big portions and even larger breakfast bloody marys.

So popular, Washington State even claimed it as their official state sport! It’s Pickleball – and it’s all the rage. Snohomish has multiple courts at Pilchuck Park for you to get in a fun workout in a beautiful riverfront location.

After smashing your opponent on the court, celebrate with an ice cold one at one of Snohomish’s craft breweries. You’ll find six breweries within close proximity on the Snohomish Ale Trail.

Long before Europeans arrived, Native American tribes, the Snohomish, Stillaguamish, Snoqualmie, Skykomish and Pilchuck inhabited this area. When early settlers arrived, they brought with them and planted big-leaf maples, red osier dogwood and cottonwood trees to name a few. Now, 150 years later – view their grandeur on a self-guided tour of the heritage trees of the commercial and residential district.

Don’t call it a night just yet – head down to the Oxford Saloon for live music and a little boot scootin’ boogie. Like most everything in downtown Snohomish, the Oxford has a historic past with some claiming that the building is haunted. If you don’t mind your spirits served with spirits, then grab a supernatural cocktail and dance away the rest of your evening in

A Weekend In Monroe

Venture off Highway 2 to explore all that Monroe has to offer. Transected by Highway 2, this charming, family-friendly town offers more than meets the eye.

Friday

When you arrive in town, first, stop by the Monroe Visitor Center too see what events and activities are happening that weekend that might spike your interest. Next, check into one of our many lodging options. If you are a traditionalist these include the Best Western Sky Valley Inn, Evergreen Inn and Suites, and Fairgrounds Inn. If you are in search of a more nontraditional lodging option, you can try glamping at Falling Water Gardens or cozying up at a B&B such as Ponderosa of Sky Valley. If you prefer to be away from the bustle of the city, Mountain Views Tree House Joint might be the place for you. Once you are unpacked, if you aren’t ready to settle down and it’s July, head to Lake Tye Park for Music in the Park and dance the night away. Or, if it’s August, grab a blanket for a more low-key evening at Movies Under the Moon – also at Lake Tye Park.

Saturday

Wake up refreshed and ready to explore all that Monroe’s Historic Downtown has to offer. Start your day off right with a beverage from local roaster, Original Pilot House Coffee. If you are hungry, be sure to get there early; they offer hand-made cinnamon rolls Saturday morning that are a local favorite, but they are usually gone by 9 a.m.! If you aren’t quite ready for a delicacy, bundle up near their fire and enjoy your beverage of choice as you wake up. Once you’ve worked up an appetite head to Sky River Bakery for all the baked goods you could ask for. Now you are ready to go.

Spread across two blocks, Monroe’s Historic Main Street offers a variety of unique shops. Find vintage and antique treasures at M & M Antiques & Collectibles or Black Barrel Vintage Co. If vintage isn’t your style, no problem! Milkwood offers fine art and custom furniture made by local artists but be prepared, you might leave with a one-of-a-kind live edge coffee table.

By this time, you’ve worked up an appetite and with roughly 10 restaurants on two blocks, you are sure to find what you’re craving. Perhaps that is the comfort food of Pad Thai at Thai on Main Street, Flautas at Tres Marias, or maybe you are hunkering for signature BBQ from The Amarillo Restaurant and Tavern. Continue to shop after lunch. Grab a book for the evening at Main Street Books or something for a future adventure at Pacific Mountain Sports. If you have time to spare, a local brewery is always a great option and Good Brewing Co. will happily fill your time.

End the day off right with a farm-to-table American Farmhouse cuisine at Lewis and Main Restaurant and Brewery. As you leave the restaurant, fully satisfied, be sure to check out Kevin Pattelle’s Wagner Swifts sculpture on the corner of Lewis and Main Street. This sculpture is a representation of one of the most important Vaux’s Swift communal migratory roost sites in North America located just ½ mile east of the sculpture. Then while you are so close, Guardian’s of the Mountain Pass created by Milo White and Jay Bowen is located kiddie corner and encompasses the history and surroundings of Monroe. Since you are right there, if you fancy a night cap, Burnt Barrel Whiskey Bar has you covered.

SUNDAY

How about a day of exercise for both you and your furry friend?

If your pup wakes up full of energy, let’s wear them out first. Grab a hearty, classic breakfast at Jeno’s. Established in 1970, this community staple still hand-writes their receipts, but come prepared as they are cash-only. Next, head to Wiggly Field, Monroe’s 2.5-acre off-leash dog park. This park offers obstacles and agility equipment that is sure to keep your pup entertained and a dog drinking fountain to keep them refreshed. The adjacent Sky River Park offers a .75 mile walking path if your dog fancies more of a leisurely pace. Afterwards grab lunch at newly opened vMonroe Fish and Chips.

If you wake up and want to get a walk in before your four-legged friend, or, if you’d prefer to walk with them, Lake Tye Park is the place for you. This Park offers a 1.63 mile paved, walking path around the lake. You are sure to get in some bird watching while you are here and possibly watch a local fisherman collect their catch of the day. Pop across the street for breakfast at Paesano’s Coffee and Café or bring Hawaii to Monroe with lunch at Island Blends Acai and Poke.

Whatever you seek, Monroe has it. We look forward to hosting you again next time!

A Day In Lake Stevens

Start the morning off with some coffee and breakfast at Biscuit & Bean (1811 Main Steet). The Lumberjack Sandwich should fill you up, and the biscuits & gravy are highly revered! The coffee from Fulcrum Coffee is strong and makes a great latte. From there, head out for a stroll or bike ride along the Centennial Trail to work off that gravy. Access is just east of downtown and reaches south to Snohomish and north to Arlington and beyond. This former railroad line turned walking & biking path is generally flat and easy to navigate.

When lunchtime comes around, head back to town for a Lake Stevens Original: walk up or drive thru the Chicken Drive-In (1920 Main St.). Serving a wide range of options from burgers and hot dogs to salads, sandwiches and fish & chips, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget a shake! Take your lunch into the recently renovated North Cove Park and find a park bench, table in the picnic shelter, or a space on the grass to enjoy your meal.

There is also a fully ADA accessible playground and small splash pad at the head of the park near the newly constructed civic building, The Mill on Lake Stevens (1808 Main Street). Access to swimming in the lake via a sand beach and a pier is also a popular attraction when the weather is warmer.

After lunch, maybe try your hand at disc golf. You can head to Games Plus Lake Stevens (1805 Main St) to pick up supplies including driver and putting discs before heading east to Catherine Creek Park and the Lake Stevens Disc Golf Course (12813 20th St. NE). This mostly flat and wooded course built in 1999, and designed by Fred Chittenden, is a challenging course through 150-foot-tall trees. One of the highlights are the unique, hand-made pin baskets.

After the links, head over to Lake Stevens Brewing Company for a cold one. This family and pet friendly gathering spot has no less than 10 beers and ciders on tap, and typically a root beer as well. Also available are soda, chips, and juice boxes: something for the whole family!

When it’s time for dinner, you could grab food from the regular rotation of food trucks at the brewery, or head over to Francisco’s Kitchen & Cantina (1915 Hartford Dr.) for nice, sit-down meal. Francisco’s offers Mexicanstyle Northwest Fare in an upscale casual dining environment. Order up some fresh made guacamole and bacon wrapped scallops to munch on while your chicken, seafood, or steak meal is prepared from fresh, local ingredients. Tacos, burgers, soups, and salads are also available. Be sure to check out the creek that runs under the restaurant through the glass floor while you are there!