Articles Tagged "Summer"

While Portland features fantastic forests and stunning mountain views, the city is also surrounded by incredible lakes. When our brokers seek a day of activity or relaxation, they head for these lakes around Portland that fill either need. 

• Blue Lake Regional Park - 21224 NE Blue Lake Rd., Fairview, OR 97024
  It's water, water everywhere at Blue Lake Regional Park, only minutes from Fairview homes for sale. The namesake lake, with its swimming beach and fishing spots, is the main attraction. Kids can romp in the activity-filled splash pad, while everyone can enjoy walks around three additional ponds and wetlands, with opportunities to spot birds and wildlife. Challenge family and friends to games of basketball, volleyball, softball, soccer, horseshoes, or disc golf. Be sure to visit the Natural Discovery Garden before or after your leisurely picnic lunch. Park hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily through September 14. Admission is free, but there is a $5 parking fee per car.
  
  
• Vancouver Lake Regional Park - 6801 NW Lower River Rd., Vancouver, WA 98660
  One of the many benefits of Vancouver homes for sale is proximity to Vancouver Lake Regional Park. The sprawling, 190-acre grounds lie on the west shore of beautiful Vancouver Lake, which itself covers 2,300 acres. Swimming, windsurfing, canoeing, and kayaking are popular activities on the lake, which hosts a number of rowing competitions each year. Work up an appetite with a lively game of sand volleyball, then settle in around the picnic tables and barbecue grills for lunch. Take a stroll along park trails for scenic views of Mount Hood, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Adams. Vancouver Lake Regional Park is open daily from 7 a.m. - dusk. There is no admission fee, but parking is $3 per car. 
  
  
• Buck Lake - Mt. Hood National Forest
  Discover (or rediscover) the joys of a good old-fashioned swimming hole at Buck Lake. This dog-friendly secluded spot, deep within Mt. Hood National Forest, is so serene that you'll forget you're near Sandy homes for sale. Fed from rain and snow melt, Buck Lake's crystal-clear, aquamarine waters create a calming ambiance that's perfect for relaxation. Not ready to leave? Primitive campsites are available. There is no admission fee or restricted hours.
  
  
• Timothy Lake - Mt. Hood National Forest
  Mt. Hood National Forest doesn't have just one lake to stop at. There are 150 lakes to choose from! While you're enjoying your Clackamas County outdoor adventure, make sure to visit Timothy Lake, which is the largest lake in the national forest. This lake offers fantastic views of the mountain, plus there are ample fishing opportunities if you decide to bring your fishing gear along for your lake day. Trout and salmon are common in this lake. Plus, the nearby campsites make it so you can stay as long as you'd like. In fact, there are over 260 designated camping spots to choose from around the lake, making this one of the largest camping spots in the whole state. Reserve a camping spot online, so you're all set for a relaxing nature retreat.
  
  
• Trillium Lake - Government Camp, OR 97028
  Breathtaking Trillium Lake, just a short drive from Government Camp homes for sale, is as pretty as the flower that shares its name. With majestic Mt. Hood reflected on the water, people enjoy non-motorized boating, swimming, and trout fishing on the 63-acre lake. Trillium Shoreline Trail, a two-mile pet-friendly boardwalk path that circles the lake, makes a nice walk that's easy enough for families. Plan your visit to include sunrise or sunset for some Instagram-worthy photos. Film and book lovers frequently make a side trip to Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landmark approximately 10 miles away. Dating back to the 1930s, the resort served as a location in the movie version of The Shining. If you prefer less ghostly quarters, Trillium Lake also features a campground. A day-use pass for Trillium Lake is $10.

Outdoor adventures are one of the many things people love about living near Portland. Do your summer plans include buying or selling a home around Portland? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to get started.

With so many small businesses and nonprofits operating in the area, Seattle homes for sale are never far from great thrift store finds. 

In addition to traditional thrifting brands, you'll also find a variety of vintage clothing boutiques that use eco-friendly practices.

All of this makes Seattle the perfect place to enjoy National Thrift Shop Day. It takes place on Wednesday, August 17 this year, and there is plenty of time to get ready for a day full of shopping. Our brokers know that it isn't always easy to decide where to start an exploration of beautiful Seattle, so we have a few pointers for you to enjoy as you plan your day.

Let's take a closer look at some of Seattle's top thrift stores:

• Goodwill Seattle – 1400 South Lane Street, Seattle, WA 98144
  Goodwill Seattle is a local storefront operated by one of the most trusted names in America's nonprofit scene. Shopping and donating help to fund free education and job training programs focused on Seattle adults. Besides the clothing, Goodwill Seattle is also known for a vast assortment of art, including pieces from local artists. Major sales of 30% to 50% off take place on a regular basis here.
  
  
• The Barn Owl – 2611 Northwest Market Street (Rear), Seattle, WA 98108
  The Barn Owl recently celebrated the opening of a new location, but its original Seattle store is still the most popular. You can get lost for hours here thanks to the racks and racks of authentic vintage clothes. Where else in Seattle can you find Elvis merchandise side by side with original Garfield toys, cups, and clocks? What's old is new again at The Barn Owl, and there is always something more to encounter.
  
  
• Bon Voyage Vintage – 110 South Washington Street, Seattle, WA 98104
  Bon Voyage Vintage will dazzle your senses with its range of products. It goes beyond standard thrift store finds to include candles, sleep spray, and other products promising unique sensory experiences. The focal point of the clothing is in local designers, particularly those working in styles inspired by the 1980s. Handmade gifts and vintage photography round out the intriguing selection.
  
  
• Assistance League Seattle – 1415 North 45th Street, Seattle, WA 98103
  Assistance League Seattle operates a full spectrum of programs intended to support students who are at risk or disadvantaged. Proceeds from its thrift store help to support these initiatives, like "Operation School Bell," which provides basic clothing assistance to kids who might otherwise drop out. Visit the shop on Thursdays, Fridays, or Saturdays to shop for a cause. You can even browse the racks online.
  
  
• Lucky Vintage – 5424 Ballard Avenue Northwest, Seattle, WA 98107
  Located alongside Lucky Dry Goods, the flagship location of Lucky Vintage is always busy with shoppers. From t-shirts and sweatshirts to designer dresses, this vintage brand is known for the bold and fanciful. It also sponsors fun and exciting events throughout the year. If you can't make it to the shop in person, its Etsy store and full online gallery will help ensure you don't have to miss out on any precious finds.
  
  
• Pretty Parlor – 119 Summit Avenue East, Seattle, WA 98102
  Pretty Parlor is an iconic Seattle corner boutique that offers vintage clothing and accessories for both women and men. It also has original designs that are constantly changing, plus a bridal collection. As a mainstay in the area since back in 2001, it has a dedicated following where you'll find Audrey Hepburn-inspired "fancy" fashion.

One-of-a-kind shops are just one of the many things locals love about life in Seattle. Ready to make this area your home?

Contact us to discover more about all Seattle has to offer.

Get to know the glittering jewel of Portland's incredible neighborhoods. Our brokers share their favorite must-see places in the chic and historic Pearl District.

History of the Pearl District

While the word "pearl" conjures up images of a shiny, polished gem, Portland's Pearl District was originally a gritty area that was home to railroads, warehouses, and industrial buildings. In the mid-1980s, urban renewal began transforming the neighborhood into a popular district known for art galleries, charming boutiques, and trendy restaurants.

At one time, the district was known simply as the Triangle, but a search began for a more satisfying name. The Rose Arts Magazine presented a list of suggestions, and the Pearl District ended up gaining favor as a reference to the artists who were setting up studios in warehouses being converted to lofts.

Activities

• Jamison Square - 810 NW 11th Ave., Portland, OR 97209
  Green spaces were a major part of the plan for the Pearl District, and the best-known may be Jamison Square. This pocket-sized park, just under one acre, is a favorite of families because of its centerpiece fountain. Designed to replicate a tidal pool, the fountain features a waterfall that cascades into a continually refilling basin. Park hours are 5 a.m. -  midnight daily. 
  
  
• First Thursday - NW 13th Ave. & NW Irving St., Portland, OR 97210
  First Thursday is one of three monthly art walks held in Portland. Artists are on hand at Pearl District galleries to discuss their work, as well as selling their pieces at street stands. Live music and refreshments complete the picture. Hours are 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. and admission is free.

Shops

• Powell's City of Books - 1005 W. Burnside St., Portland, OR 97209
  Founded in 1971, Powell's City of Books is a true Portland landmark. The store takes up an entire city block with nine color-coded rooms that encompass more than 3,500 different sections. Book lovers from around the country flock to the Rare Book Room, which includes autographed first editions and other items of interest. Powell's is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Recycled Chic Boutique - 239 NW 13th Ave., Suite 209, Portland, OR 97209
  It's no surprise that Portland residents want to look stylish while still observing their commitment to the environment. Recycled Chic Boutique offers a thoughtfully curated selection of gently-used designer clothing and accessories, from casual streetwear to high fashion. You're likely to find brands such as Alexander McQueen, Burberry, and Jimmy Choo represented. Hours are noon - 4 p.m. on weekdays.

Dining

• Fuller's Coffee Shop - 136 NW 9th Ave., Portland, OR 97209
  Tradition is alive and well in the Pearl District at Fuller's Coffee Shop. This old-school diner opened in 1947 and still retains the delightful retro ambiance. Instead of booths or tables, take a seat at the classic U-shaped counters with swivel stools. Breakfast is served all day, as well as comfort food favorites such as BLTs, burgers, and egg salad sandwiches. Fuller's is open 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. daily except Sunday when starting time is 8 a.m. 
  
  
• Oven and Shaker - 1134 NW Everett St., Portland, OR 97209
  Pizza may be considered casual food, but it's serious business at Oven and Shaker. Chef Cathy Whims, a multiple James Beard award nominee, was inspired by numerous trips to Italy. Oven and Shaker's pizza begins with their signature 70-year-old sourdough starter and features fresh local ingredients for the toppings. Pies are hand-tossed and fired in a Milanese wood-burning oven that was transported brick-by-brick from Europe. Hours are 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. Friday, noon - 10 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday.

Entertainment

• Portland Center Stage - 128 NW 11th Ave., Portland, OR 97209
  From its origins as a branch of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Portland Center Stage has grown to become one of the top 20 regional theaters in the country. In addition to plays, Center Stage hosts events such as art exhibits, improv shows, and live music. 
  
  
• The Big Legrowlski - 812 NW Couch St., Portland, Or 97209
  At The Big Legrowlski shows are on every night, featuring the best local musicians, open jams, and dance parties with top DJs. Hours are 7 p.m. - midnight Sunday through Thursday and 6 p.m. - midnight Wednesday through Saturday. Showtime is 7 p.m. Cover charge runs $5-$10, with no cover for open jams.

No one knows Portland homes for sale like our cheerful and experienced brokers. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to learn more.

Seattle established itself long ago as one of America's leading foodie cities. And while that reputation remains unchanged, the restaurants that define Seattle's dynamic culinary scene are always changing. With that in mind, our brokers are eager to share their favorite new restaurants that you'll need to try soon!

• Bunsoy - 2221 NW Market St, Seattle, WA 98107
  Savor the bold, flavorful cuisine of the Philippines in all its glory at Bunsoy, a new restaurant in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood. Located a stone's throw from these Seattle homes for sale, Bunsoy is a labor of love for chef and owner Rhabbie Coquia, who cooked at numerous other establishments in the Seattle area before striking out on his own. Coquia grew up in Manila and brings a lifetime of experience to vibrant dishes like oxtail Kare Kare, salmon Sinigang, and Dungeness crabs with Balaw sauce. 
  
  
• WeRo Korean Kitchen - 5210 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107
  Another exciting new Ballard eatery, WeRo Korean Kitchen, puts a modern twist on authentic Korean cuisine. The menu features Korean fried wings and Jjajang Dupbop (pork shoulder with black bean sauce, served over rice with mushrooms and vegetables) alongside vegetarian-friendly offerings like the Tofu Ssam Platter. The founder of WeRo Korean Kitchen, Wes Yoo, began his business as a small pop-up takeout operation right before the beginning of the pandemic. Thanks to its immediate popularity, the restaurant now has a beautiful brick-and-mortar location.
  
  
• The George - 411 University St, Seattle, WA 98101
  A newly-minted modern brasserie located inside the Fairmont Olympic Hotel, The George has a lot to live up to. After all, the Fairmont's dining room first opened in 1924, and The George is the latest in a long line of unique eateries to fill this space. The cuisine could best be described as Pacific Northwest-French, and most of the ingredients are locally sourced. Seafood dishes like bouillabaisse and geoduck sashimi are among the menu's highlights. The George also provides a truly spectacular dining space, and the bar serves next-level cocktails.
  
  
• Jackalope Tex Mex & Cantina - 4868 Rainier Ave S, Seattle, WA 98118
  Surrounded by Seattle's vibrant Columbia City neighborhood, Jackalope Tex Mex & Cantina opened its doors in 2021. The restaurant is co-owned by Seattle barbecue veterans Jack Timmons and Graham Ayers, who have crafted a menu that highlights flavors from both sides of the border. Dishes like chicken verde enchiladas and Texas brisket tacos represent the bold, flavorful quality of Tex Mex at its finest, while other dishes—like fish tacos and fajitas made with local rockfish—have a distinctly Pacific Northwest flair. Jackalope also has a stylish bar area, which serves an excellent selection of tequila and mezcal. 
  
  
• Money Frog - 1449 E Pine St, Seattle, WA 98122
  Money Frog is a new spot on Capitol Hill, opened by the inventive culinary minds behind beloved Seattle eateries Taurus Ox and Hangry Panda. Though it would seem reductive to call Money Frog's cuisine Asian fusion, it's evident that Korean, Taiwanese, and Laotian influences are all present. It all adds up to a vivid melting pot of flavors. The obvious menu standouts are the chicken-fried frog legs, but simple dishes like cucumber salad, flash-fried green beans, and soft shell chili crab are equally enticing. Many dishes are vegan/vegetarian or can be made so upon request.
  
  
• Maíz - 1914 Pike Pl, Seattle, WA 98101
  You'll learn more about corn than you ever knew there was to know at Maíz, a fresh and colorful new tortillería serving Mexican dishes in Pike Place. Corn is the star of the show here, or more specifically, nixtamal is the star of the show. It refers to the process of nixtamalizing, during which unique varieties of small-batch Mexican heirloom corn are boiled with mineral lime, cooled, soaked, washed again and again, and finally ground into the dough used to make tortillas in a rainbow of colors. Those tortillas are then paired with a dizzying array of fillings to create tacos, tamales, sopas, and gorditas to suit every palate.
  
  
• El Cubano - 19920 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133
  Sometimes, something as seemingly simple as a Cuban sandwich is really all you need. That being said, even in Seattle's diverse culinary world, an authentic, classic Cubano sandwich isn't always easy to find. That's a problem that Shoreline's El Cubano aims to rectify. Opened in 2021 by Cuban-born Geo Rodriguez and his wife Kim Gianotti, El Cubano serves its namesake sandwich as it should be: Loaded with roasted pork, hickory-smoked ham, Swiss cheese, dill pickles, and mayo-mustard sauce on toasted Cuban bread and heat pressed to perfection. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Seattle. 

There are plenty of nature retreats near the Seattle area, and perhaps one of the most visually stunning is hiking to a waterfall. Summer is the perfect time to view these exquisite works of art in Mother Nature's portfolio. Our brokers love having easy access to these spectacular waterfalls within a short distance from Seattle homes for sale. 

• Snoqualmie Falls - 6501 Railroad Ave. SE, Snoqualmie, WA 98024
  Snoqualmie Falls, named for the Salish word meaning "moon," has been a popular tourist draw since the early 1800s. But it gained a whole new level of national attention when the majestic cascades appeared in the opening credits of David Lynch's groundbreaking TV show Twin Peaks, much of which was filmed around Snoqualmie homes for sale. Take in the view of the 270-foot falls from the pet-friendly observation deck or follow the scenic trail down to the base. Parking and viewing area are open daily from dawn until dusk.
  
  
• Shoreview Park - 17229 3rd Ave. NW, Shoreline, WA 98133
  You don't even have to leave metro Seattle to see waterfalls. When you're short on time but craving a dose of nature, head to Shoreview Park, right down the street from Shoreline homes for sale. Leashed dogs are welcome on the 1.5-mile Boeing Creek Loop that features gentle waterfalls in the midst of the serene setting. Park hours are 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Wallace Falls State Park - 14503 Wallace Lake Rd., Gold Bar, WA 98251
  If you're seeking quantity and quality, look no further than Wallace Falls State Park, not far from Gold Bar homes for sale. The namesake falls include three separate tiers anchored by the Middle Falls, which drop 260 feet with additional cascades adding another 100 feet. Both Upper and Lower Falls have more than 200-foot drops as well. For the best views, take Fido along on the 5.6-mile round trip Woody Trail route. A one-day park pass is $10, and hours are 8 a.m. - dusk daily.
  
  
• Olallie State Park - 51350 SE Homestead Valley Rd., North Bend, WA 98045
  Olallie State Park is known for its abundance of waterfalls, but the showstopper by far is Twin Falls. The stair-stepping tiers give the appearance of two separate waterfalls. Old-growth trees, some of which are more than 400 years old, add to the magical ambiance. Follow the Twin Falls trail to a set of stairs leading to the Lower Falls viewpoint, then continue on to a bridge that spans the canyon for a viewpoint of the Upper Falls. The pet-friendly park, just minutes from North Bend homes for sale, is open seven days a week from 6:30 a.m. - to dusk, and a one-day pass is $10.
  
  
• Bridal Veil Falls - Hwy. 2, Index, WA 98256
  Once you see Bridal Veil Falls for the first time, you'll instantly understand how it got its name. Seven tiers cascade over numerous granite slabs for a total drop of more than 1,300 feet from top to bottom. The "bridal veil" effect occurs courtesy of a 100-foot rock face where water sprays out into a mist that replicates the look of delicate tulle. Due to the size, it's not possible to see the falls in their full length, but there are amazing views on the adjoining trail that's open to leashed dogs. Entry requires a Northwest Forest Pass, which is $5 for the day or $30 per year. Be sure to purchase ahead of time, as there is no way to buy a pass on-site near Index homes for sale.
  
  
• Carkeek Park - 950 NW Carkeek Park Rd., Seattle, WA 98177
  Looking for some family-friendly waterfall sites that accommodate "hikers" with shorter legs and less stamina? Pet-friendly Pipers Creek Trail at Carkeek Park, located in Seattle's Broadview neighborhood, is an easy route for any age. Kids will have fun spotting the small waterfalls along the creek, and you may even have a bonus sighting of salmon navigating the waters. Afterward, the little ones can enjoy some time at the salmon-themed play area. Carkeek Park is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. - to 10 p.m., and there are no admission fees.

Whether you prefer urban or outdoor delights, you'll find them in the Seattle area. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for experienced help with all your real estate needs.

One of the best reasons to buy a home is to have enough land to practice all your hobbies. Gardeners know it's crucial to have enough space for their plants to flourish. By choosing the right plants and nurturing them in the right ways, they make a positive impact that reaches far beyond their own home.

Never is this more obvious than when it comes to the humble honey bee!

Support Your Local Honey Bee Population with Bee-Friendly Gardening

National Honey Bee Day, also known as Honey Bee Awareness Day, is observed every August 21 in the United States. What better time than now to learn precisely what you can plant to attract bees and other pollinators? After all, the great majority of plants need pollinators like the bee to help them thrive!

When gardening to attract honey bees, remember that these little creatures have preferences. Flowers that consistently attract honey bees have visible pollen or nectar, making it easy for them to reach. Long, thin flowers don't appeal to bees, whose short tongues can't reach in. 

Hybrid flowers bearing big, showy blooms tend to have less nectar and attract fewer honey bees.

In addition to bees, hummingbirds and butterflies are common pollinators. Just because you see one type, it doesn't mean that the other types have been scared off. Plant a variety of flowers and you will get plenty of different pollinators. For those who are wondering, blue is widely believed to be honey bees' favorite color!

For a more bee-friendly garden, our brokers encourage you to consider these additions:

• Bee Balm
  These colorful flowers have a unique "frilly" appearance and attract a wide range of pollinators. In addition to bees, you can expect to see more butterflies and even hummingbirds. Their distinctive dark green leaves hold a surprise: When crushed, they provide a surprisingly strong citrus-mint smell.
  
  
• Joe Pye Weed
  Don't be put off by the name – this perennial plant is far more than a simple weed! Beloved by butterflies, in particular, Joe Pye Weed adds a pop of vivid pink, purple, and white all throughout late summer and fall. The dome-like flower growths are supported by lovely vanilla-scented leaves.
  
  
• Yarrow
  Throughout history, Yarrow has been prized in many areas of the world as a plant associated with healing. These days, this perennial is appreciated as a drought-tolerant and colorful addition to any garden. It is highly attractive to both bees and butterflies. Beginning gardeners love yarrow because it is so easy to care for.
  
  
• Delphinium
  This flowering plant adds texture to a garden thanks to its tall spires of colorful flowers. Those flowers come in a full spectrum of colors including blue, lavender, red, pink, purple, and white. A delphinium is sure to attract its share of admirers of all kinds – but it is particularly favored by hummingbirds.
  
  
• Hardy Fuchsia
  With long, tubular flowers, the hardy fuchsia is another plant that calls out to pollinators of many different kinds. Bird-lovers enjoy planting it as a rest stop for hummingbirds and other feathered friends. Multicolored flowers are not uncommon with the hardy fuchsia, which usually blooms from late spring until frost.
  
  
• Penstemon
  Bees can be attracted to the gently fragrant penstemon in surprising numbers, visiting its tubular flowers from far and wide. Butterflies often choose to alight there, too. Penstemon is well known among gardeners for its propensity to thrive in hot, sunny conditions. Beware that it does require regular watering.
  
  
• Catmint
  A distant relative of the catnip plant, catmint won't be quite as compelling for your feline friends – bees, on the other hand, adore it. Bees are by far the most common catmint pollinator and will be visiting from late spring through the summer. Catmint's loose spikes of pink, lavender, or white can fit in many places in your garden.

Plant a few of these flowers and you're more likely to see honey bees buzzing along happily in your garden. Local, native plants often get lots of attention from bees. You can make their job easier by creating a water source in your garden. Bees use the water to cool their hives.

Looking for a new home with a yard perfect for putting your green thumb to the test? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to discover real estate opportunities throughout the area.

With a city surrounded by water and mountains, is it any wonder that outdoor dining is so popular in Seattle? Pack a basket or grab some carryout and visit one of these amazing picnic spots around Seattle recommended by our brokers. 

• Waterfall Garden Park - 219 2nd Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98104
  An urban picnic area may sound like an oxymoron, but Seattle is full of such unconventional delights. Waterfall Garden Park is tucked into an unobtrusive 60-by-80-feet spot in historic Pioneer Square. Until 1975, the site held the headquarters of United Parcel Service. Today, the charming park includes a 22-foot man-made waterfall and a dual-level patio with tables and chairs, making it a wonderful place for a lunch hour picnic or reading break. Park hours are 8 a.m. - 3:45 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Green Lake Park - 7201 E. Green Lake Dr., Seattle, WA 98115
  The area around Green Lake Park features some of the most desirable Seattle homes for sale, and it's not hard to see why. Who wouldn't want to live just down the street from a beautiful three-acre lake surrounded by lush green space? The neighborhood is full of great restaurants, delis, and sandwich shops where you can pick up a picnic-friendly meal. Work up an appetite or work off some calories with swimming at the lifeguard-patrolled beach or a walk along the 2.8-mile path that circles the lake. Bring along a guidebook to identify the numerous birds and waterfowl you're sure to see. Green Lake Park is open 24/7.
  
  
• Dr. Jose Rizal Park - 1007 12th Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98144
  Seattle has one of the most iconic skylines in the country. Take in some incredible views of downtown and Puget Sound during your picnic at Dr. Jose Rizal Park on Beacon Hill. With nearly 10 acres of grounds, including reservable picnic areas, the park can accommodate groups of any size. Be sure to bring Fido along and spend some quality time at the off-leash dog area. Park hours are 4 a.m. - 11:30 p.m., seven days a week.
  
  
• Gas Works Park - 2101 N. Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103
  When someone in Seattle says, "Go fly a kite," people immediately head to Gas Works Park. The 19.1-acre site, once the home of the Seattle Gas Light Company plant, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Kite-flying on the park's spacious hills is a local ritual, while remnants of the original facility are incorporated into a play barn that's a favorite of families. Watch seaplanes land and take off from Lake Union against the backdrop of the downtown skyline. Gas Works Park is open daily from 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.
  
  
• Washington Park Arboretum - 2300 Arboretum Dr. E., Seattle, WA 98112
  Nature is on display in all its glory at Washington Park Arboretum, a 230-acre extravaganza of gardens, wetlands, and wooded areas. The grounds contain 5,500 different plants from all corners of the world, including one of the top Japanese maple tree collections. Choose your favorite points of interest and create your own walking tour along the numerous trails. Print one of the seasonal scavenger hunts from the website and see how many items kids can find. Leashed dogs are welcome at the arboretum. Hours are dawn - 8 p.m. daily, and admission is free.
  
  
• Carkeek Park - 950 NW Carkeek Park Rd., Seattle, WA 98177
  Washington state is known for apples because of spots like historic Piper's Orchard in Carkeek Park. Six miles of trails lead to the orchard, as well as spectacular views of Whidbey Island and the Olympic Mountains. The salmon-themed playground plays tribute to another notable product of the state. Check out the tide pool beach at low tide, when you can walk hundreds of feet out into Puget Sound. Park hours are 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Woodland Park Rose Garden - 750 N. 50th St., Seattle, WA 98103
  With 2.5 acres filled with nearly 3,000 roses, Woodland Park Rose Garden is perfect for a romantic picnic for two or a delightful family outing. The garden is one of only two dozen American Rose Test Gardens in the country, displaying new hybrids before they're available to the public. Fun fact: since the garden went pesticide-free in 2006, the flowers have been used to feed animals in adjoining Woodland Park Zoo. Hours are 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily, and admission is free.

Picnics don't get more exclusive than the ones you hold in the backyard of your Seattle home. Have questions about buying or selling real estate? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for cheerful and experienced help.