2024 TOUR PHILADELPHIA WAGON DAYS WEEKEND AAA DEALS & DISCOUNTS THE AAA MAGAZINE VISIT IDAHO FALLS ART OF THE AMERICAN WEST LAVENDER TRAILS EXPLORE FARMS & FIELDS Beach Time SUMMER ON THE NORTHERN COAST
JULY + AUGUST
Where nature becomes one with you. Book today. ExploreLincolnCity.com
PROTECT THE NIGHT www.darkskyoregon.org TO LEARN MORE & DONATE TODAY Preserving and restoring the natural nighttime environment is more urgent than ever. NEOWISE over Mount Hood
Kirk Keyes
Photo:
Sea creatures and surprises
Of course you can feed the seals at the historic Seaside Aquarium. You can also spy rare sea stars, stand where members of the Lewis & Clark expedition made salt from seawater, spin around on a famous carousel and still have time to show off your skills at one of the only Fascination parlors left in the country!
seaside is for
seasideOR.com @visitseasideOR
BEACH DAYS
Discover four towns on Oregon’s northern coast for Pacific Northwest adventures to intrigue all ages.
JULY + AUGUST
11 SMART TRAVEL
Tips to protect home deliveries. Find fuel savings plus discounts on lodging and summer fun.
19 ON THE ROAD
Celebrate big hitch wagons, Basque and Mexican heritage plus the largest dark sky sanctuary in the world.
25 IDAHO FALLS
Along the Snake River, explore Old Town’s culture and history.
29 WEEKENDER
It’s lavender season! Farms and trails invite visitors to enjoy the blooming beauty and scents of summer.
40 DISCOVER ART OF THE WEST
Western art defies definition. Visit museums and galleries to explore the ways artists portray their experiences across place and time.
44 DESTINATION PHILADELPHIA
Dive into the art, food and layers of American history in the City of Brotherly Love.
AAA | Via 5 {CONTENTS}
9 PRESIDENT’S NOTES 10 AAA DIRECTORY 50 PARTING SHOT
44 Volume 25, Issue 4 2024 COLCKWISE FROM TOP MTMMEDIA.CA JAMES LAVADOUR, NAMING OF THINGS, 2020 TASTE OF NEWBERG LIBERTY BELL A. RICKETTS FOR VISIT PHILADELPHIA® 40 29
34
PUBLISHERS
Heather Huston Johnson
Ross Johnson
EDITORIAL
Editor in Chief Cheryl Parton
Associate Editor Heidi Hausler
Staff Writer Chloe Green
Copy Editor Stephanie Boyle Mays
DESIGN
Creative Director Kelly Alexander
Senior Graphic Designer Cali Clement
Graphic Designer Jeremiah Crisp
Print Coordinator Clarke Fine
SALES & MARKETING
Senior Account Executive Susan Crow
Senior Account Executive Ronnie Harrelson
Account Executive Allie Field
Sales & Mktg. Coordinator Gretchen Sortor
Director of Operations Heather Renee Wong
Circulation Manager Amara Spittler
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jeanette Boner, Casey Hatfield-Chiotti, Kim Cooper Findling, Daniel O’Neil, Meryl Pearlstein
Subscription rate: AAA primary members, $2 (included in dues).
Change of address: Allow four weeks advance notice. Call (888) 422-2503 or email the Membership Department at membership@AAAoregon.com.
Contact editorial: viaeditorial@oregonmedia.com
Contact advertising: sales@oregonmedia.com
Contents copyrighted ©2024 by AAA Oregon/Idaho. No part of Via may be reprinted without written permission.
477,036 COPIES
Via (ISSN 2473-5183) is published bimonthly by Oregon Media, LLC, 70 SW Century Dr. STE 100, Bend, OR 97702. Periodicals Postage: Paid at Bend, OR, and at additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to VIA, Membership Records, 600 SW Market St., Portland, OR 97201.
Proudly printed in Oregon.
JULY + AUGUST 2024 TOUR PHILADELPHIA WAGON DAYS WEEKEND AAA DEALS & DISCOUNTS THE AAA MAGAZINE VISIT IDAHO FALLS ART OF THE AMERICAN WEST LAVENDER TRAILS Beach Time SUMMER ON THE NORTHERN COAST ON THE COVER At Pacific City, the Nestucca River meets the sea for summertime fun.
PUBLISHED BY OREGON MEDIA, LLC 974 NW
oregonmedia.com THE AAA MAGAZINE 6 July + August 2024 PRINTS 4/4 AAA AD AD 3.375 x 4.625 CRF 3/28/24 C M EVENT DELIVERY DESCRIPTION SIGN CODE DETAIL ROUND ROUND DATE 90 Years and Still Sharing OPEN DAILY 1314 Center Drive, Medford, Oregon 97501 541-864-2278 • HarryandDavid.com Stop by our flagship store for gourmet food, sweets, fine wine, and more. COUNTRY VILLAGE STORE
Photo by Beth Easton
Riverside Blvd. Bend, Oregon 97703
©2024, Harry and David, LLC, Medford, OR, DBA Harry & David.
Explore More Welcome to Tualatin Valley, just west of downtown Portland. Experience 727 square miles full of pristine wetlands, wildlife refuges, and lush forests. Bike, hike, paddle and more. Your adventure starts at TUALATINVALLEY.ORG GO
WITH THE FLOW OF TRAFFIC, OR LACK THEREOF.
Tualatin River Water Trail
TAKE THE BEST OF CENTRAL OREGON WITH YOU, ALL YEAR LONG! PENDLETON WEEKEND Getaway THE SOUL OF CENTRAL OREGON BEND RETAILERS STAND THE TEST OF TIME SHOP LOCAL TAKE FLIGHT EDUCATING AVIATORS OF THE FUTURE GOING THE ULTRARUNNERS SHOW THEIR TRUE GRIT THE SOUL OF CENTRAL OREGON LOWER DESCHUTES Exploration GOING ABOVE & BEYOND VOLUNTEER SUPERHEROES BEND'S LOVE OF ROUNDABOUTS AROUND & AROUND A QUICK DRIVE TO SLEEP UNDER THE STARS BY CAR
NOTHING BEATS EXPERIENCE
In this issue of Via, we celebrate the beauty of the West. It’s an amazing place to live and explore, as my wife, Missi, and I were recently reminded during a trip to the Oregon Coast.
Wherever life’s journey takes you, it pays to rely on expert advice. Our AAA Travel agents have the knowledge and experience to help you plan your dream vacation, whether you’re heading out on a quick getaway or the trip of a lifetime.
If you’re among the millions of Americans taking a summer road trip, we’ve got you covered. Our world-class emergency road service helps AAA members travel with confidence. While Basic membership is primarily designed for those who remain close to home, we also offer Plus membership, with towing of up to 100 miles and enhanced benefits such as expanded locksmith and extrication services, accident away from home reimbursement, travel accident insurance and motorcycle support.
Premier membership takes things to the next level. In addition to all the Plus membership benefits, Premier includes one member entitlement of up to 200 miles of towing, home lockout assistance, trip interruption reimbursement, access to a travel concierge and more.
If you’re planning on summer fun with an RV or toy trailer, you’ll need Plus RV membership. To select the level of membership that’s right for you, please visit AAA.com or call (888) 422-2503.
Before you head out on your road trip, your vehicle needs to be ready. Please visit a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility for expert advice and quality repairs at a fair price. For a shop near you, please visit AAA.com/autorepair. Or maybe you’re ready to buy a vehicle. Take the hassle out of buying a car with the AAA Car Buying Service. We can find the right new or used vehicle for you and negotiate the price on your behalf without you having to
DIRECTORS + OFFICERS
chair Steven H. Corey pendleton
vice chair elizabetH J. Cawood eugene
president tim morgan portland
treasurer C.e. “win” FranCiS bend
visit a dealership. Trade-ins are welcome, and financing options are available. We also offer convenient delivery options and extended service contracts to fit your needs. The AAA Car Buying Service is available in Oregon. Find out more at AAA.com/carbuyingservice.
To prevent heatstroke, please never leave children and pets unattended in your vehicle. A car’s temperature can soar by 20 degrees or more in as little as 10 minutes, even when the vehicle is in the shade, or the windows are cracked. Please help us avoid a tragedy.
How may we better serve you? Please email me at President@AAAOregonIdaho.com or write to me at 600 SW Market St., Portland, OR 97201 or 7155 W. Denton St., Boise ID 83704.
Your fellow AAA member,
Tim Morgan, President and CEO
bradley J. Hart lake oswego
Karen HinSdale portland
randolpH l miller portland
patriCia C. Smullin medford
mary pat tHompSon boise
Kerry tymCHuK beaverton
gina walKer lake oswego
AAA | Via 9
AAA DIRECTORY
FOR GENERAL INFORMATION CALL (888) 422-2503 OR VISIT AAA.COM
instagram.com/ AAAoregonidaho
info.oregon.AAA.com/ via-magazine
INSURANCE SERVICES
AAA.com/Insurance
8555 SW Apple Way 20350 Empire Blvd. 10365 SE Sunnyside Rd. 1705 Ocean Blvd. SE 1836 NW Ninth St., Ste. 110 CONNECT WITH US AAA.com facebook.com/ AAAoregonidaho
Policyholders (866) AAA-INSURE (866-222-4678)
New sales (866) AAA-QUOTE (866-222-7868)
TRAVEL SERVICES
AAA.com/Travel (800) 529-3222
SERVICE CENTERS AAA.com/Locations
Eugene 983 Willagillespie Rd.
Grants Pass 1563 NE F St.
Hillsboro 7300 NE Butler St.
Lake Oswego 6 Centerpointe Dr. Medford 1777 E. Barnett Rd. Pendleton 248 SW Dorion Ave. Portland 600 SW Market St. Roseburg 3019 NW Stewart Pkwy.
Salem 2909 Ryan Dr. SE Springfield/Gateway 939 Harlow Rd. Warrenton/North Coast 153 S. Hwy. 101
IDAHO
Boise 7155 W. Denton St.
Idaho Falls 3418 S. 25th East
Meridian 2310 E. Overland Rd., Ste. 110
Nampa 16453 N. Marketplace Blvd.
Pocatello 1000 Pocatello Creek Rd., Ste. E5 Twin Falls 1239 Pole Line Rd., Ste. 315
10 July + August 2024
Over 60 horse-drawn vehicles & thousands of historical artifacts. Fun for all ages! Raymond, WA @ Hwy 101 and SR-6 nwcarriagemuseum.org • 360-942-4150 Open Daily 10-4 Paid for by PCLTax Come get Carried Away! ants, and other att actions, visit www.tourmoseslake.com. VISIT MOSES LAKE Your Home Base For Adventure © B eanna Singleton
{SMART TRAVEL}
Experience top-tier golf as the LPGA tour’s Portland Classic returns to the Pacific Northwest from August 1-4, 2024, at Columbia Edgewater Country Club. AAA members enjoy free admission on Thursday, August 1, when using their membership card. For more information, visit portlandclassic.com.
AAA | Via 11
PHOTO GETTY IMAGES PORTLAND CLASSIC RETURNS
PLAY FOR LESS
Cool off this summer at water parks offering discounted tickets for AAA members.
MAKE A SPLASH WITH WATER PARK DISCOUNTS
Make a splash this summer with discounted tickets to water parks across the country. Dive into the deep end or relax poolside, all while saving up to 30% on aquatic adventures. Start your summer fun today! Find tickets at AAA.com/waterparks.
SET UP YOUR GRAD FOR SUCCESS
Give your college-bound graduate confidence with essential technology from Dell. AAA members enjoy exclusive savings on Dell-branded PCs, electronics and accessories. Start shopping at
PREPARE FOR WILDFIRE SEASON
As wildfire season approaches, safeguard your home with tips and resources from AAA. Preparedness includes having a wildfire action plan, including escape routes, places to meet and emergency numbers. Create defensible space if applicable in your area by clearing away dry grass and brush at least 100 feet from your home. Then, keep important papers in a fireproof and waterproof box and create an emergency preparedness kit for a swift evacuation if necessary. Visit AAA.com/wildfire to learn more.
{SMART TRAVEL} PHOTO TOP ISTOCK.COM/FAMVELD
BRAIN POWER
MORE HOTEL SAVINGS FOR AAA MEMBERS
AAA has broadened its hotel partnerships, providing members with even greater savings. Get 10% or more off at Choice Hotels, such as Comfort Inn and Radisson Hotels. With 2,500 plus locations across North America, enjoy comfort and value on your road trip. Discover more at AAA.com/choice .
TICKETS FOR SOCCER
FANS
Calling all Portland Timbers fans! Courtesy of AAA Oregon/Idaho and the Portland Timbers, AAA members can enjoy discounted tickets to Timbers matches this season. Save on seats for select home games at Providence Park. Learn more at AAA.com/Timbers.
NEW CAR INVENTORY
After a two-year shortage, new car dealerships have replenished inventory, offering buyers a 5.4% price decrease from the market peak in December 2022. Explore various options, including hybrids and electric vehicles, with less hassle. AAA members in Oregon have access to personal assistance with AAA Car Buying Services found at AAA.com/carbuyingservice
DISCOUNTS
FUEL SAVINGS ON THE ROAD
Use Shell’s Fuel Rewards Program to optimize savings on the road and go the extra miles. As a AAA member, enjoy complimentary Gold Status and save on your first fill-up at Shell, followed by ongoing discounts. Join today at AAA.com/Shell
ENSURE SAFE TRAVELS
Prepare for your next journey and safeguard your belongings with Travelon anti-theft bags. Equipped with slash-resistant straps and RFIDblocking organizers, the bags offer five-point protection against five of the most common bag theft practices Find a variety of styles and colors at your local AAA Service Center. Visit AAA.com/locations for more options.
{SMART TRAVEL} PHOTO TOP STOCK.ADOBE.COM/DIDESIGN
TRAVEL TIP: STREAMLINE CAR RENTALS
Get speedy service and your choice of car with Hertz Gold Plus Rewards®. Skip the counter, earn points for free rentals and enjoy AAA members’ exclusive discounts. Enroll today at AAA.com/HertzGold
INSPIRATION
ACCESS VIA MAGAZINE ONLINE
Explore Via Magazine’s content online at AAA. com/via. For added convenience, opt for digital copies by updating your member profile preferences at
TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR HOME DELIVERIES
Porch pirates target unattended packages, striking boldly and brazenly. Fortunately, new technologies can provide peace of mind. Safeguard your deliveries from marauders with a few simple tips:
1. Use a Doorbell Camera
Easy to install and motion-activated, doorbell cameras help limit the time a delivery is left vulnerable at your door. Providing an alert when a delivery is made, you can pick up a package right away. If someone attempts to take the parcel, an alert is triggered on your phone or computer.
2. Install a Porch Protection System
Discourage would-be porch thieves and intruders by positioning cameras strategically for comprehensive doorstep surveillances. An effective porch protection system camera is mounted in a visible place and captures a clear view of your doorstep.
Monitor Package Delivery Times
Track deliveries online or via delivery apps. Some companies monitor drivers in real-time. Use secure options such as lockboxes and package-receiving services if you can’t be present. Or, ask a trusted neighbor to pick up your package for you so it isn’t vulnerable to theft.
Discover more at AAA.com/smarthome
{SMART TRAVEL} 14 July + August 2024 PHOTO TOP COURTESY HERTZ
AAA members enjoy discounts and travel planning support on domestic and international travel, from cruise vacations to European tours and family destination travel packages. See AAA.com/viatravel.
ITALIAN DREAMS
Milan, Venice and the Jewels of Veneto
From the fashion capital of Milan to the canals of Venice, Italy offers a rich cultural journey. Embrace a distinctive experience as you stay in a floating boutique hotel on the waterways of Venice. Then, wander through through the picturesque streets and tranquil waterways of Burano, Mazzorbo and Torcello, each brimming with colorful charm. Venture south to the quaint fishing haven of Chioggia and indulge in the exquisite wines and cuisines that define the Veneto region. From $4,199 per person .
TRAVEL DEALS
GREEK ISLAND TOUR
Athens, Santorini, Mykonos
Take off on a 10-day Greek odyssey which starts in vibrant Athens and unfolds across two Aegean islands. Learn about ancient wonders before indulging in a blissful week navigating the charms of Santorini and Mykonos. Merge history with relaxation by discovering natural beauty, waterfront cafes and majestic ruins dedicated to ancient deities. Explore how these remnants stand as a testament to the pivotal role Greece played in shaping modern western civilization. Say “opa!” to an adventure of a lifetime. From $3,095 per person
AMERICA’S COWBOY COUNTRY
Jackson Hole, Yellowstone, Grand Tetons and more
The breathtaking landscapes of the American West await. Rest your head in the cowboy havens of Jackson Hole and Cody. Step back in time to the days of the Wild West with a pilgrimage to Deadwood, a town steeped in Gold Rush lore. Witness the untamed beauty of Yellowstone, encounter buffalo herds in Custer State Park and behold the majestic peaks of Grand Teton National Park. Gaze on the iconic visages of Mt. Rushmore and see the Crazy Horse memorials. From $3,399 per person
MEXICO CRUISE
Cozumel to Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta
Set sail on an expedition brimming with the cultural riches of Mexico. Explore the ports of Cozumel, Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, to discover their vibrant offerings. Whether you crave the Pacific charm of the west-coast Riviera, the island mojo of the east-coast Caribbean, or the breathtaking coastal vistas of Baja, Mexico promises an unforgettable vacation at every stop. From $568 per person
ESSENCE OF JAPAN
Mount Fuji and beyond Ancient traditions blend with modern innovation in Japan. Experience the awe-inspiring silhouette of Mount Fuji and the delicate beauty of cherry blossom gardens. Explore centuries of history as you ascend the path of Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, with its dramatic torii gates winding through lush forests. Indulge in a kaiseki lunch at a traditional ryokan, providing a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Discover the essence of Japan’s past and present on this unforgettable adventure. From $4,550 per person
{SMART TRAVEL} 16 July + August 2024
AAA
PHOTO ISTOCK.COM/STEVANZZ
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the world’s most tender steaks, extra-aged 28+ days to perfection. Discover premium quality beef that’s grain-finished for exquisite flavor.
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The Gourmet Steakhouse Assortment 4 Butcher’s Cut Filet Mignons (5 oz.) 4 Air-Chilled Boneless Chicken Breasts (4 oz.) 4 Boneless Pork Chops (5 oz.) 4 Omaha Steaks Burgers (4 oz.) 4 Gourmet Jumbo Franks (3 oz.) 4 Individual Scalloped Potatoes (3.8 oz.) 4 Caramel Apple Tartlets (4 oz.) 1 Omaha Steaks Seasoning (3 oz.) 4 FREE Air-Chilled Boneless Chicken Breasts (4 oz.) 4 FREE Omaha Steaks Burgers (4 oz.) 75351KNG separately $305.92 SPECIAL PACKAGE PRICE $129 99 LIMITED-TIME offer! Call 1.800.811.7832 or go to OmahaSteaks.com/Gourmet6101 Ask for your FREE chicken breasts and burgers with offer 75351KNG THE BEST STEAKS OF YOUR LIFE OR YOUR MONEY BACK Savings shown over aggregated single item base price. Limit 2. 4 free 4 oz. chicken breasts and 4 free 4 oz. burgers will be sent to each shipping address that includes 75351. Standard S&H added per address. While supplies last. Items may be substituted due to inventory limitations. Some products may not be available for sale in your area. Sales are subject to OmahaSteaks.com/terms-of-useOSI. Expires 09/30/24. | SRC0709 Get 4 Chicken Breasts & 4 Burgers FREE A $27 value! OmahaSteaks.com/Gourmet6101 Scan Now to Order
Hand-selected and crafted by master butchers in America’s heartland for more than a century. This is the world’s best steak experience.
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EXHIBIT OPENS FALL 2024
Columbia River Maritime Museum
ON THE WATERFRONT IN DOWNTOWN ASTORIA • CRMM.ORG
{ON THE ROAD}
WAGON DAYS
One of the largest nonmotorized parades in the Pacific Northwest, the Big Hitch Parade has celebrated the mining history of Ketchum, Idaho, since 1958. Part of the city’s Wagon Days, held each Labor Day weekend and this year from August 30-September 1, it features buggies, carriages, carts and stagecoaches, plus a showcase of Idaho’s equestrian traditions. Central to the parade is the appearance of the “Big Hitch” wagons used to haul as much as 18,000 pounds of ore each day from the Elkhorn mine near Ketchum to the railroad in Kelton, Utah, in the 1880s. Impressive in size, the wheels of these massive wagons are six feet in diameter and are pulled by a 20-mule team. Wagon Days’ events also include cowboy poetry readings, pancake breakfasts and a concert by Mickey and the Motorcars immediately following the parade. See wagondays.com
AAA | Via 19
PHOTO TERI LEE NIEDRICH
TASTES OF SUMMER
A celebration of nature’s sweet summer treat, Hermiston, Oregon’s MelonFest on August 17 showcases all things watermelon. Get in on the action by entering a seed-spitting contest, or watermelon bathtub race for teams of three. Tubs are provided; team spirit and uniforms are encouraged. Enjoy vendors, live music, a costume contest and plenty of renowned Hermiston watermelon at this free event. See hermiston.gov
SAN INAZIO CELEBRATION
For more than 25 years, the San Inazio Festival in Boise, Idaho, has honored St. Ignatius of Loyola, patron saint of the Basques—peoples from this northern region of Spain and France. From July 26-28, discover food, music, traditional dance and sporting events. Visit the Basque Block, a dedicated section of downtown Boise that’s home to the Basque community and cultural center. See basquecenter.com.
FREEDOM FIESTA
The city of Kuna, Idaho’s Freedom Fiesta on July 20 is a day to celebrate Mexican heritage with food, music, dance and a parade. In the Charro Parade, see the likes of Las Escaramuza Charra Rosas de Castilla, a Treasure Valley equestrian team of female riders who perform intricate horseback rides, wearing traditional Mexican attire to showcase an integral part of Mexican culture. Joining them may be Caballos Bailadores de Nampa, a dance troupe of both children and adults who perform traditional Mexican dances while riding horses. Watch for a lineup up of performances by Ballet Folklorico Mexico Lindo and Flamenco Idaho. See kunacity.id.gov.
EXTRAORDINARY CATS
To celebrate the 15th anniversary of award-winning film Coraline, Coraline’s Curious Cat Trail brings 30 six-foot-tall painted statues of the Cat character to downtown Portland from August 2-October 13. The Oscar®-nominated film boasts stop-motion animation and sets from the Portland-based studio LAIKA. Event auctions benefit OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. See coralinescuriouscattrail.com.
AAA | Via 21 {ON THE ROAD}
HERITAGE PHOTO TOP ISTOCK.COM/MUNTART MIDDLE ED ORBEA AND CIRBIE SANGRONI BOTTOM ZULEMA M., CITY OF KUNA PARKS AND RECREATION
ART
PUBLIC
CULTURE
SEE THE STARS IN THE DARKEST SKIES OF THE WORLD
Encompassing more than 2.5 million acres in southeastern Oregon, the Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary was named the world’s largest International Dark Sky Sanctuary this spring as part of a proposed 11.4 million-acre project. One of 20 Dark Sky sanctuaries in the world, the Oregon Outback is one of the most pristine places on earth to witness the starlit sky. The sanctuary status results from efforts by nonprofit Dark Skies International to protect the night sky from light pollution. See the stars with Portland, Oregon-based Rose City Astronomers that hosts stargazing events across the state. To find one near you, go to rosecityastronomers.net.
SENIOR GAMES QUALIFIERS
Athletes ages 50+ compete in National Senior Games events, held in Corvallis, Oregon August 3-19 and Boise, Idaho August 7-September 15. With categories from archery and traditional track and field events to pickleball and badminton, Senior Games offer both camaraderie and the challenge of competitive sports in age brackets up to 100 plus. The event is a qualifier for the National Senior Games, a 26-event biennial competition to be held summer of 2025 in Des Moines, Iowa. See NSGA.com.
{ON THE ROAD} 22 July + August 2024 SPORTS
|
PHOTO TOP DAWN DAVIS
BOTTOM COURTESY VISIT CORVALLIS, AMANDA LOMAN
NATURE
SUMMER MUSIC IN OREGON’S MT. HOOD TERRITORY
Summer music festivals in Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory are near some of the destination’s best foodie, farm and hidden hiking experiences.
Pickathon
August 1–4, Happy Valley, OR family friendly
This zero-waste event redefines the music festival experience as an immersive wonderland where fans discover music’s deep cuts alongside art integrated into the forests, hills, meadows and farm buildings at Pendarvis Farm. The spirit of Pickathon is all about discovery, and Happy Valley boasts urban forests, wetlands and waterfalls many residents don’t know about. Spot deer on a hike in Mt. Talbert Nature Park. Chase waterfalls at Hidden Falls Nature Park.
Support local businesses while finding new favorite foods. Visit FAT Cupcake, which offers mini, skinny and full-size cupcakes with vegan and wheat-free options. Feel fancy with a reservation to Elka Bee’s high tea, they even have a Prince and Princess Tea option for kids under 10.
And for some Portland-area favorites, check out Valley Public House food hall and Happy Valley Station food carts.
Scan to view where to visit after these festivals
Harefest
July 18–20, Canby, OR 21+
Don your finest fingerless leather gloves for three days of your favorite Beastie Boys, Metallica, Led Zepplin, and AC/DC hits performed by the best tribute bands in the country. Twenty-seven bands will rock three stages at the Clackamas County Fairgrounds & Events Center.
Don’t miss a visit to downtown Canby while you’re there. Grab a bite at Wayward Sandwiches, where ingredients are sourced
omht.us/community
from nearby farms. Sip a hard-to-find whiskey at Siren Song, and take home local art from Alice in Wonderland-themed ArtO-Maddic. Just a ten-minute drive from downtown, visit the world’s only farmstead creamery and distillery at TMK Creamery, where they make vodka from their spent cheese whey called Cowcohol. On the way, stop at Puddin’ River Chocolates for confections and cheese fondue.
Support The Freshwater Trust and keep freshwater flowing. Visit our site today to learn how you can help support our rivers.
LEARN MORE AT WWW LENTILFEST COM PRESENTED BY T he 3 5 t h National Lentil Festival J o i n U s ! R e a n e y P a r k
LLMAN, WA
Idaho Falls
EXPLORE HISTORY AND COLORFUL SITES ALONG THE SNAKE RIVER
WRITTEN BY JEANNETTE BONER
Idaho is known for its potatoes, but the bustle of summer events in Idaho Falls shows how the thriving city has peeled back its roots to reveal a modern spirit. Arrive in Idaho Falls along a long stretch of the Snake River Valley which swings low into the southern part of the state and is colored with rugged lava flows wrapped in wild sagebrush. A visit here tends to exceed a traveler’s expectations.
FREE, FUN AND FOR EVERYONE
Start your visit at the colorful Idaho Falls Farmers Market held on Saturdays through October, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Boasting more than 100 vendors at the peak of the season, you will find more than just fresh vegetables at this community market. With live music setting the scene with its beats, vendors offer up homemade pastas and cannoli, hand-pressed honey, jams and jellies, flowers, jewelry, art, woodworks and more.
Surrounding the farmers market, the area known as Old Town is a great jumping-off point for sightseeing in nature along the Idaho Falls River Walk. This greenbelt notches classic views of the river while showcasing some of the city’s most stunning architecture and cultivated gardens before dropping you into the city center. Here, you’ll find the falls that inspired the city’s name. In 1891, marketers hoped the name Idaho Falls would attract people and revive the river town as it began shifting from an agriculture-based economy.
You can walk parts (or all) of the River Walk’s five-mile stretch of greenbelt on either side of the Snake River, or explore it by bike with a rental from a variety of bike shops in the Old Town area. Start at the Japanese Friendship Garden, a tribute to the Idaho Falls’ sister city of Tokai-Mura in Japan.
Along the River Walk, find the Idaho Falls Temple, an architectural anchor and the first Latter-day Saints temple to be constructed in Idaho. Tours are available to
PHOTO TOP ALAMY.COM/RICHARD SCHAFER MIDDLE COURTESY IDAHO FALLS PARKS AND REC | BOTTOM CLARK POSTON
TOP
Snake River with Idaho Falls Temple in the background.
ABOVE Japanese Friendship Garden
RIGHT
AAA | Via 25
Idaho Falls Farmers Market
the public when scheduled in advance. You will also find a variety of tributes and monuments giving a nod to those who laid the foundation of the city. Discover Indigenous sites, military veteran memorials, and learn the history of the fur trade and the region’s pioneer days. Find parks to play disc golf, swing at childrens’ playgrounds or stretch out in the soft grass to rest.
OLD TOWN HISTORY AND CULTURE
The Old Town offers a selection of dining experiences tucked into special corners of the city’s century-old buildings, many of which are on the National Register of Historical Places. Walk by the terracotta facade of the 1930s Kress Building, and enjoy the fare at the Celt Pub or a light lunch at A Street Soup Market. The clothing and gift boutique Poppy & Pout is a light, bright space next door to the production facility for the cult-favorite—the all-natural Poppy & Pout lip balms Oprah Winfrey called one of her “favorite things.”
On each first Thursday evening during the summer months (except in July, when it is the second Thursday), local galleries, museums and artisan stores host a free Art Walk, from 5-8 p.m. Live music, refreshments and art demos complement the regional and global art on
display. Include a visit to the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho, the history and science-centered Museum of Idaho, the Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park or the East Idaho Aquarium to top off a summer tour of this gem of a city perched on the banks of the Snake River.
PLAN A TRIP
Get the AAA Mobile app for trip inspiration, information, and deals. Explore maps and discounts at AAA.com/mobile.
26 July + August 2024
PHOTO TOP COURTESY ART MUSEUM OF EASTERN IDAHO, THEARTMUSEUM.ORG
Art Museum of Eastern Idaho
Poppy & Pout
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Lavender Trails
STOP AND SMELL THE FLOWERS AT FARMS AND FESTIVALS OF THE SEASON
WRITTEN BY CASEY HATFIELD-CHIOTTI
PHOTO TAMARA ELLIOTT
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France is famous for its fragrant lavender fields, but Western residents don’t need a plane ticket to experience this summer pleasure. In Oregon, Idaho and Washington, lavender season can last from mid-June until early August, with the blooms typically peaking in July. Lavender farms offer extended hours, special activities and festivals to celebrate. Here are the best spots to pick and experience the hardestworking plant in the West.
Oregon
NEWBERG
With a climate similar to lavender’s natural environment in the Mediterranean, Newberg becomes the center of lavender festivities in the Willamette Valley each summer as the gently rolling hills surrounding the small city burst into a mass of purple blooms.
In addition to highlighting the monthlong Lavender Trail, which features 30 lavender-embracing local businesses, Newberg hosts the annual Willamette Valley Lavender Festival & Plein Air Art Show July 13-14 at the Chehalem Cultural Center. Visitors can sample a variety of distinctive lavender products, including lavender-flavored chocolates while viewing original paintings created en plein air during the weeks prior to the festival.
At Wayward Winds Lavender Farm, lavender lovers enjoy wreath-making, lavender snow cones and picking more than 100 varieties of lavender, along with the chance to explore the one-of-a-kind lavender-a-maze. The farm grows everything from culinary varieties to dainty dwarf plants and offers a wide variety of lavender products and refreshments. Chehalem Flats Farm Market, open Fridays and Saturdays is another must-stop for U-pick and fresh bouquets.
30 July + August 2024 PHOTO KAREN GRIMAUD
OPPOSITE PAGE Blue Mountain Lavender Farm
LEFT Blooming Fields Lavender Farm
BOTTOM Hood River Lavender Farms
HOOD RIVER
Hood River Lavender Farms is on a mission to share the health benefits of lavender. Considered an herb, lavender is known to help with relaxation, insomnia and anxiety. Visitors enjoy the earthy aroma as they explore the farm’s organic lavender fields. Each weekend in July, Hood River Lavender Farms hosts its Lavender Daze Festival, with music, art and scoops lavender ice cream.
SOUTHERN OREGON
To celebrate lavender season, the family-run farms that make up the Southern Oregon Lavender Trail have two festivals during prime blooming season. This year, on June 21-23 and July 12-14, guests are encouraged to go on self-guided tours to explore six locations, such as a farm specializing in English lavender varieties and the Applegate River Lavender Farm, an ocean of purple set against a mountain backdrop. Those who arrive early enough may see bumblebees sleeping on lavender flowers.
Idaho
NORTHERN IDAHO
At the 10-acre Blooming Fields Lavender Farm in Athol, which opened for the season in May, it’s easy to enjoy a full day at the farm with its tours, tea-making workshops and U-pick experiences. Farm-made products, such as aromatherapy sprays and lavender-eucalyptus candles, provide visitors with a year-round lavender fix.
SOUTHERN IDAHO
Not far from Boise, Vista Farms in Kuna is known for producing sustainably raised meats, but in June and July, visitors are engulfed
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PHOTO TOP COURTESY BLOOMING FIELDS LAVENDER | BOTTOM JILL HOUSE
in a purple haze. Guests may pick bouquets of French lavender—known for their long stems and pale purple hue. The farm also sells dried lavender bundles and lavender essential oils.
Washington SEQUIM
The Sequim-Dungeness Valley has one of the highest concentrations of lavender fields in the United States, with a dozen farms dotting the verdant valley. Visitors will experience the region at its best during the annual Sequim Lavender Festival Weekend, July 19-21. Typically closed to the public, the farms welcome visitors to pick and learn about lavender. Attend a festival downtown, with art, vendors and live music at its LavenderStock.
THURSTON COUNTY
The 60-mile scenic loop known as the Thurston Bountiful Byway transforms into an oasis of relaxation during lavender season. Farms grow dozens of lavender varieties, such as deep-hued Betty’s Blue and hardy Folgate. Evergreen Valley Lavender Farm, a pastoral paradise
with more than 600 organic lavender plants and an iconic red barn with white trim, is open from late June through early August and is hosting a festival with vendors July 13. At Schirm Loop Homestead Lavender, visitors can stroll through rows and rows of lavender in the shadow of Mt. Rainier, and 30 miles south, Walupt Farms is known for its moisturizing lavender and elderflower oil balm. South Puget Sound visitors find lavender without leaving downtown Olympia. Ember Goods serves a lavender latte, and the The Shiplap Shop & Coffee House’s coconut lavender lemonade is an enticing way to refresh on a hot summer day. The Olympia Farmers Market has an array of lavender goods in the summer.
WALLA WALLA
At Blue Mountain Lavender Farm, many wellness-based activities go beyond the typical U-pick farm (although picking lavender is typically included in a booking). Offerings include yoga with lavender field views, mindfulness sessions, wreath-making sessions and free educational talks with owner Jean-Paul Grimaud who brought a love for lavender from his home country of France more than 20 years ago.
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Blue Mountain Lavender Farm
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BEACH TIME IN THE Pacific Northwest
Escape to the northern Oregon Coast for an old-fashioned getaway
WRITTEN BY KIM COOPER FINDLING
34 July + August 2024
Tide pools near Cape Kiwanda
As the heat of summer descends, there’s only one place Pacific Northwesterners want to be—the beach. When inland days are steamy, an afternoon spent with toes curled in the sand and skin soothed by a cool ocean breeze can cure most ills. This has been true for many summer seasons. In the early 1900s, the northern Oregon Coast bloomed in summers with families taking up residence for the season. The $5 Portland Express Train delivered fathers from the city on Friday nights, henceforth earning its nickname, the “Daddy Train.” Since those early days of summer reprieve, the northern Oregon Coast—just 85 miles from Portland—has only become busier in July and August. Still, there are a few destinations where souls in search of solace in the sea air can find old-fashioned beach town experiences plus a decent shot at beating the crowds.
Gearhart
GOLF LINKS AND RAZOR CLAMS
Located just three miles north of Seaside (one of the Oregon Coast’s most-visited destinations), Gearhart has managed to maintain the quiet ambiance of its own history. As the Oregon Coast’s first planned resort community, Gearhart had its beginnings at the end of the 1800s. Modest cottages, Victorian dwellings and hotels sprung up among sandy beaches, dune meadows and the Gearhart Golf Links—the oldest golf course in the Pacific Northwest and one of the oldest west of the Mississippi. Visitors to modern Gearhart golf this 18-hole links-style course today, as well as the newer Highlands Golf Club. The historic hotels were lost to fire long ago, but
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a stay at McMenamins Gearhart Hotel gives the flavor of their history. Located in the historic Kelly House overlooking the Golf Links course, guests choose one of 34 rooms in this Cape Cod-style building. Consider parking the car for the weekend and traversing the wide, quiet streets on a bicycle. Journey to the center of town to nosh on a scone at The Pacific Way, a cafe which began as a mom-and-pop grocery in the 1920s; browse for antiques at Pacific Crest Cottage; take the family to 12-lane Gearhart Bowl; or catch the charming 4th of July parade, complete with hot dogs cooked by the local fire department and followed by a good old-fashioned evening street dance. Until July 15, dig for Oregon’s famous razor clams at Del Rey Beach State Recreation Site (the season closes July 15 through September 30 to protect young clams). In August, peruse art at Gearhart ArtWalk, or bring a blanket and picnic to Music in the Park at Gearhart Centennial Park.
Manzanita
BEACH, BOOKS AND THE FAMILY DOG
The friendly little sister to classy Cannon Beach, Manzanita isn’t exactly undiscovered these days, but pull off the highway to this one-road-in beach town and you’ll still experience a sense of calm. The expansive beach,
36 July + August 2024 Gearhart Golf Links
McMenamins Gearhart Hotel
PHOTO TOP DON FRANK
anchored on the north end by looming Neahkahnie Mountain, is fronted by dozens of well-kept beach rentals. Choose one for the week and settle in. Laneda Avenue is dotted with delightful shops and restaurants, including the well-curated Cloud & Leaf Bookstore and the place for pet-themed gifts, Four Paws on the Beach. As a destination on the North Coast Food Trail, Manzanita offers Pacific Northwest-grown agriculture at Offshore Grill and Coffeehouse or Wild Manzanita, an organic grocery and cafe. At The Winery at Manzanita, sip on wines fermented on site. Friday evenings in summer, the place to be is the Manzanita Farmers Market, where vendors gather to offer local produce, fresh flowers, baked bread and live music. At Nehalem Bay State Park south of town, book a horseback beach ride with Northwest Equine Outfitters to take in the view from a classic vantage point. Top summer off with a festival celebrating dogs—Muttzanita hits the sand in early September with a day full of pet parades, pet talent contests and the most impressive game of fetch ever witnessed.
Oceanside
SEA STACKS AND A SECRET PASSAGEWAY
Visit Tillamook for cheese, ice cream and selfies with the enormous cow that greets guests to the famous Tillamook Creamery (founded in 1909 as a farmer-owned cooperative and still going strong), and then journey to the nearby, tucked-away cove and beach town Oceanside for serenity and scenery. There is no hustle and bustle to this tiny enclave—thankfully. Visible from most places in this hillside town are the sea stacks Three Arch Rocks, a national wildlife refuge home to seabirds and other wild creatures. Spread out your beach blanket to watch the common murres and double-crested cormorants dip and sway in the ocean winds. Stay at the tranquil Three Arch Inn, where guests both hear and see the ocean from their rooms. Downstairs is the Oceanside Surf Co., doubling as a cafe where the friendly staff makes breakfast burritos and provides tips on local waves. Maxwell Point is the large head to the north of town; at low tide, venture to its base on an old-time adventure—a tunnel to the aptly named Tunnel Beach, secret coves and secluded beaches. Keep an eye on the tide! Three miles south of Oceanside in Netarts, home to the classic lodging Terimore Inn, is the inimitable Schooner Restaurant and Lounge with its oodles of fresh Netarts Bay Pacific oysters, harvested for decades from the bay before it.
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TOP The Winery at Manzanita
MIDDLE Tillamook Creamery
PHOTO MIDDLE ALAMY.COM/MELISSA KOPKA BOTTOM GARY HALVORSON, OREGON STATE ARCHIVES
BOTTOM Tunnel Beach
Pacific City
SURFING, CAMPING AND LIBATIONS
Once a hidden gem, modern Pacific City is undeniably busy in the summer months. Nevertheless, with advanced planning visitors can achieve a classic Oregon beach camping trip. Cape Kiwanda RV Park is within walking distance to the beach, while also offering an indoor pool, playground, yard games, a fish-cleaning station and fire pits. Hart’s Camp is another option, with Airstreams, cabins and cottages for rent. The flagship Pelican Brewing Company holds court on Pacific City’s beachfront with indoor and outdoor seating, dozens of fresh craft brews and a full menu, featured on the North Coast Food Trail. Pacific City was one of Oregon’s earliest surfing meccas; rent a board from Moment Surf Co. and catch the uncrowded, approachable waves that peel off Cape Kiwanda. Shallow, flat-bottomed boats known as dories are another Pacific City tradition, dating
LEFT Cape Kiwanda Haystack Rock
RIGHT TOP Hart's Camp Airstreams
RIGHT BOTTOM Pelican Brewing Company
back to the early 1900s. Launched from the beach through the surf, the boats are great for fishing; book a trip with a guide through Pacific City Dory Fishing Charters and catch your own Dungeness crab, salmon or albacore tuna. Commemorating this local tradition is Dory Days, held each July and celebrating its 65th anniversary this year. Enjoy the parade, fish fry and live music. Finish the weekend with a hike up Cape Kiwanda, named for local leader Chief Kiawanda of the Nestugga Tribe. The tribe's name later morphed to become "Nestucca" and was given to the river visible from the top of a steep climb, sure to leave you breathless from both the effort and the incredible view.
Writer Kim Cooper Findling is the owner of Dancing Moon Press, an independent book publisher located in Lincoln City and Bend. Findling is the author of eight books including Bend, Oregon Daycations: Day Trips for Curious Families
38 July + August 2024 PHOTO LEFT MTMMEDIA.CA
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Farther West
A new look at art and artists of the American West
WRITTEN BY DANIEL O’NEIL
The landscapes, peoples and histories of the American West are defined by their diversity, a theme is illuminated in the region’s art. Ever since the first artists carved petroglyphs and pictographs into basalt 10 millennia ago, expressive minds from many cultures have created art which speaks of this place, its stories and its perspectives. Beyond cowboys backdropped by rimrock canyons and limitless horizons, art of the American West encompasses Indigenous, Black, Chinese and EuroAmerican views, all of which have engaged with the landscape in myriad ways. As the art world expands the definition of Western art, new ways to approach and experience artwork appear. From galleries and pop-up shows, to public art and museums, spaces in Oregon and Idaho offer opportunities to discover various peoples’ ongoing relationships with the West and with each other, as presented through creative expression.
BOISE ART MUSEUM
Western art derives its definition from latitude and longitude, but also from style. “There’s not one West,” said Melanie Fales, executive director and CEO of the Boise Art Museum. “I think even defining ‘Western’ art is difficult because it’s a diverse nation, and it’s a diverse region,” she said. “The stories that have been told in the past haven’t included this entire diversity of stories that really need to be told about Western American history. We need to be looking at the whole story: the real stories, the marginalized stories, the hidden stories and the lesser-known stories.”
Through October 13, the Boise Art Museum offers a chance to engage in the art of the West in its exhibition “Coyote Now,” a large-scale installation by RYAN! Feddersen, a Tacoma-based artist and enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation. The interactive exhibition includes a 55-foot mural which
40 July + August 2024
The Earth Is One Country V , James Lavadour
brings Coyote, a central figure in many Indigenous Pacific Northwest stories, into present-day situations. Also on view this summer, “Myths, Fables, and Fortunes,” is an ongoing exhibition based on the realities of the Western landscape, and the relationship humans share with the natural environment. See boiseartmuseum.org
HALLIE FORD MUSEUM OF ART, SALEM
Located at Willamette University, the Hallie Ford Museum of Art has two permanent exhibitions to immerse viewers in an exploration of Western art: “Northwest Perspectives: Selections from the Permanent Collection,” which captures historic and contemporary perspectives of life in the Pacific Northwest, and “Ancestral Dialogues: Conversations in Native American Art/The Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Gallery,‘’ representing generations of American Indian art forms and their transformation over time. See willamette.edu.
JORDAN SCHNITZER MUSEUM OF ART, EUGENE AND PORTLAND
The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, located both on the University of Oregon campus in Eugene and at Portland State University in Portland, continues to expand its permanent collection with an eye on art of the West. One artist of the collection, painter James Lavadour, is a Walla Walla tribal member and co-founder of Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts in Pendleton. “Lavadour is a great example of an artist whose paintings would make sense in a Western art museum because of all the things that they
depict; he translates the [Western landscape] through his painting,” said Danielle Knapp, the museum’s McCosh Curator at the University of Oregon. See jsma.uoregon.edu.
HIGH DESERT MUSEUM, BEND
“Art in the West,” an annual juried exhibition and silent auction, returns to the High Desert Museum this summer July 20-September 20. From traditional to contemporary art, the collection honors the landscapes, plants and animals, people and cultures which have contributed to the rich history of the West, specifically in the high desert region. See highdesertmuseum.org.
PORTLAND ART MUSEUM
The Portland Art Museum’s recent exhibition titled “Black Artists of Oregon,” explored the works of AfricanAmericans who have made art in Oregon from the 1880s to present. Grace Kook-Anderson, the Arlene and Harold Schnitzer Curator of Northwest Art at the Portland Art Museum, worked with Curator Intisar Abioto to enrich the museum’s permanent collection. “One of the things that curators do when they begin their tenure at a museum is to look at the collection’s history and also think about the gaps in the collection,” Kook-Anderson said. “Oftentimes there are a lot of gaps among women artists and artists of color. I think there’s a lot of good intention in trying to work toward filling in those gaps.” Watch for future exhibitions that may include these new additions to the permanent collection. See portlandartmuseum.org.
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Painted Hills , Taylor Manoles
Galleries
While traveling, visiting regional art galleries is a way to expand a cultural vernacular, especially to discover contemporary artists. Here is a sample of a few to explore:
GAIL SEVERN GALLERY, KETCHUM
“The word Western has a pretty complex and diverse meaning,” said Gail Severn, owner of the 48-year-old eponymous gallery in Ketchum, Idaho. While Severn doesn’t consider her gallery to be strictly a “Western art gallery,” she explained, “we feature artists who use the Western landscape and depict Western imagery as part of their oeuvre.” The gallery is currently showcasing the works by the late Hung Liu, an artist born in China, whose paintings offer a lens into Western history. In her paintings, Liu pays homage to immigrant Chinese laborers in Idaho, from those who toiled building the railroads to the famous Idaho Gold Rush entrepreneur Polly Bemis. “Liu helps make the case that Western art can’t be defined so easily,” Severn said. See gailseverngallery.com.
CROW’S SHADOW INSTITUTE OF THE ARTS, PENDLETON
Crow’s Shadow offers an invitational artist-in-residency program focused on the collaborative process of creating fine art lithographs. These artists make work across multiple mediums, often addressing what it means to be Native American in the 21st-century. The gallery sells a variety of the limited-edition pieces. See crowsshadow.org.
RIMROCK GALLERY, PRINEVILLE
A fine art gallery in Central Oregon, Rimrock Gallery represents artists from across the West who create paintings and bronze sculptures that help define the region through art. See rimrockgallery.com.
THE ART SPIRIT GALLERY, COEUR D’ALENE
The Art Spirit Gallery has presented art from around the West since 1997. A melange of artists, mediums and styles demonstrates the rich diversity of Western art. See theartspiritgallery.com
PHINNEY GALLERY OF FINE ART, JOSEPH
Alongside painting, mixed media and photography from across the Pacific Northwest, the Phinney Gallery of Fine Art showcases the work of regional sculptors such as Brenna Kimbro. A Koreanborn, eastern Oregon-raised artist, her distinctive process involves gathering sticks to assemble her life-size works of animals, such as horses, elk and bears. See phinneygallery.com
PHOTO TOP RON COOPER PHOTO BOTTOM JONATHAN B SMITH 42 July + August 2024
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Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, Eugene
History meets hip in the City of Brotherly Love
WRITTEN BY MERYL PEARLSTEIN
44 July + August 2024
FALL IN LOVE WITH Philadelphia
If you haven’t yet ventured to the East Coast because you thought the cities were too big, too crowded, or lacked enough green space to keep you happy, you should consider a visit to the City of Brotherly Love. With a wealth of historical, cultural and culinary attractions, America’s “first planned city” is also the park-filled birthplace of the United States, where the Founding Fathers debated and rewrote the articles that would create the Declaration of Independence. With direct flights and Amtrak train service to the city, or an easy two-hour drive from the airports of New York City, Philadelphia, affectionately known as Philly, offers charm and history in a walkable mashup of neighborhoods.
GET TO KNOW THE CITY
Founded by Quakers in 1682, Philadelphia brings United States history to life as you tour buildings and areas prominent in the making of the nation. Bring a comfortable pair
of walking shoes—the city lends itself to exploration by foot as you visit neighborhoods with names such as Center City, Society Hill, Fairmount, Fishtown and Passyunk. For a relaxed yet comprehensive overview of Philadelphia’s role in American history, start your visit with a narrated hop-on, hop-off bus tour. While you pass the city’s distinctive rowhouses and squares, you’ll also learn about Revolutionary War VIPs such as Benjamin Franklin, Betsy Ross and John Adams. Schedule extra time in Old City to visit the famously “cracked” Liberty Bell; Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776; and narrow, cobblestoned Elfreth’s Alley, where you can experience what is considered to be the oldest residential street in America at an age of more than 300 years.
With a commanding presence, Philadelphia’s statue-covered City Hall was designed in the ornate Napoleon III Second Empire architectural style. As the country’s largest municipal building, the
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THIS PAGE, J. FUSCO FOR VISIT PHILADELPHIA® OPPOSITE PAGE ISTOCK.COM/F11PHOTO
prominent structure is crowned by a 27-ton statue of William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania and later, Philadelphia. Reserve tickets for a Tower Tour and enjoy a panoramic city view from the open-air observation deck. The well-known red LOVE sculpture by Robert Indiana sits nearby in appropriately named LOVE Park. If the city’s diverse architectural style has piqued your curiosity, a tour of The Masonic Temple across the street is well worth the visit. Inside are individually decorated rooms in spectacular Egyptian, Renaissance and Oriental decor.
HISTORY MIXED WITH CULTURE AND RECREATION
Take a break at Dilworth Park, the centerpiece of the city, to enjoy its trees, grass lawns and a fountain that turns into an ice-skating rink in the winter. Then head to Reading Terminal Market, an enclosed public market since 1893. The country’s “first food hall,” it has more
LEFT Historic Elfreth’s Alley is more than 300 years old.
RIGHT TOP LOVE sculpture by Robert Indiana
RIGHT BOTTOM Philadelphia Museum of Art
OPPOSITE PAGE Photos with Rocky Balboa. Dinner at Fette Sau..
than 80 merchants and food stands with something to satisfy sweet tooth and lunch cravings alike. DiNic’s roast pork sandwich is a garlicky-cheesy Philadelphia specialty, perfectly complemented by Pennsylvania Dutch treats like Amish shoofly pie. But a go-to Philly treat is Bassetts Ice Cream, the country’s oldest ice cream company, scooping butterfat-rich flavors such as coffee and chocolate that will have you craving seconds. Newly energized, get ready for more Philly sightseeing. From the Market, take an informative stroll along the city’s historic streets to the Delaware River. En route, admire the distinctive bricks that give the rowhouses their character before detouring to South Street for Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, a Gaudiesque mosaiccovered masterpiece of found materials by artist Isaiah Zagar. After wandering the labyrinthine paths, revert eastward towards Penn’s Landing where you can breathe in the waterfront air and enjoy some park time while taking in the boats and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.
46 July + August 2024 PHOTO TOP LEFT ISTOCK.COM/RAY TAN TOP RIGHT HOPE DALUISIO, VISIT PHILADELPHIA BOTTOM RIGHT & OPPOSITE PAGE LEFT J. FUSCO FOR VISIT PHILADELPHIA®
Sports are a big deal in Philadelphia, with iconic teams such as the Phillies, Eagles, Flyers and 76ers. If you can’t score tickets, Xfinity Live! is a sports bar and restaurant complex adjacent to the stadiums and arenas, a spirited meeting place for Phillie Phanatics—as local fans of the MLB Phillies are often called. For something more participatory, Fairmount Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, divided into two areas by the Schuylkill River. The park features a treetop obstacle course and trails for hiking, walking and cycling. The Rocky movies were filmed in Philadelphia and many of its locations are recognizable. Touring Philadelphia’s streets, it’s almost impossible to avoid humming the theme song. Run up the stairs of the Philadelphia Museum of Art for a cardio fix and pump your fists at the top à la Rocky Balboa. Be sure to visit the museum itself, one of the country’s top art institutions. (Note that the queue to the right of the stairs is for a Rocky statue photo op and not for museum tickets.) A short walk away, The Rodin Museum has the largest public collection of Auguste Rodin works outside of Paris, displayed in a Beaux-Arts-style building and garden. More of a salon than a museum, The Barnes Foundation houses a one-ofa-kind assemblage of impressionist, post-impressionist and modern European paintings along with other works of art. Do you have kids in tow? The Franklin Institute is all about science while the Please Touch Museum gives everyone license to play.
CASUAL DINING AND MORE
Philadelphia has much more to offer in the way of culinary prowess. From Asian to Italian to Philly’s own cheesesteaks, you won’t be lacking in dining diversity. Having a cheesesteak in Philadelphia is de rigueur. Each Philadelphian has their preferred cheese-steak-and-onion sammy spot, but the long-standing champ is Pat’s King of Steaks in South Philly, another area you might recognize from the Rocky movies. You can order a cheesesteak with provolone or American cheese. But to show your local savvy, ask for yours “Whiz wit,” an insider’s preferred way of ordering a cheesesteak topped with Cheez Whiz spread and grilled onions. Be prepared, it’s cash-only at Pat’s. If you ask any Philadelphian about two other Philly faves, the roast pork sandwich and Italian hoagie, expect some impassioned debate. To eliminate the guesswork, trust expert Maddy Sweitzer-Lamme of Tiny Table Tours to show you the best of Philly’s foodie neighborhoods—she’ll take you to Little Saigon for a banh mi, to East Passyunk to compare cheesesteaks and discuss pork sandwiches, and to South 9th Street Italian Market for samples from its specialty cold cuts, cheese and cannoli shops. Lest you fear that Philly doesn’t offer finer dining, explore the numerous restaurants scattered throughout the city from Iron Chef favorite Jose Garces, Chef Michael Solomonov, and restaurateur Stephen Starr, with menus ranging from Latin and Spanish to Japanese and
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Mediterranean. Book a table if you can at these James Beard Award winners: Friday Saturday Sunday, Zahav, and Vedge—the latter is a must for vegetarians.
Philly has a lively bar culture, too. Try a.bar in Rittenhouse Square, a top cocktail bistro, or Bank & Bourbon, featuring a menu of some 100 bourbons. Surround yourself with history while you sip a brew at 160-year-old McGillin’s Olde Ale House, one of the oldest taverns in the United States. The trendy Fishtown neighborhood has a range of hip bars including popular Fishtown Tavern, perfect for sampling Philly’s craft beers, and Fette Sau where BBQ pairs deliciously with a broad selection of whiskeys.
SLEEPING WITH HISTORY
A hotel in a well-located landmarked building makes an appropriate base for soaking up Philadelphia’s rich history. Loews Philadelphia sits in one of the country’s first skyscrapers, built in Art Deco style, sporting spacious
rooms and a spa with a hammam. Neighboring Canopy by Hilton Philadelphia Center City has its home in the 1897 Stephen Girard building with an eclectic historicmeets-hip-hop vibe. The hotel lends complimentary bikes to guests tired of walking. For history with a twist, Guild House Hotel is an intimate boutique housed in the former headquarters of the New Century Guild, one of America’s first clubs for working women. The hotel, a National Historic Landmark, continues to honor a tradition of inclusivity while providing luxury amenities and service.
Meryl Pearlstein is an editor and award-winning writer specializing in culinary travel and natural history. Residing in New York City, she is president of the Society of American Travel Writers and has written for publications across the country.
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48 July + August 2024
PHOTO JASON VARNEY
Guild House Hotel
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