We know, we know. Dessert is supposed to come after supper. But here in Seaside you can do all the things in any order you want.
Arcade before breakfast? Sure. Ride a swan boat backwards? Go for it! Feed the seals then fly a kite and have pancakes for dinner… it’s vacation!
seasideOR.com @visitseasideOR
Young, global-minded adults just found their new all-suite tropical resort. Offering simple pleasures in a down-to-earth atmosphere, the new Hyatt Vivid Grand Island is where you can find casual comfort in a Cancun high-rise, plus get access to a private beach club, just a 10-minute shuttle away, featuring an ocean view pool and lounge area, beach-side snack bar and restaurant with bar.
about your Travel Impressions AAA Member
For Reservations & Information, please contact your local
Travel Impressions is not responsible for errors or omissions. Bookings are subject to the current Travel Impressions terms and conditions. Travel Impressions materials (including, but not limited to, names, trademark, service marks, logos, marketing materials, etc.) shall not be used, reproduced, transmitted or distributed in any way, except with the express written consent of Travel Impressions. CST #2139014-20. 45664_kl_9.24_DS
Sosta House
MOUNT HOOD
Enjoy
Holiday gifts, winter weather checklists and secure online shopping.
21 ON THE ROAD
Explore pottery, paintings, ice shows, turkey trots and the world’s largest Nutcracker.
26 NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM
Find expanded offerings at cultural, science and art centers after dark.
29
Explore Tacoma, Washington, to uncover its food scene and bustling waterfront.
40
Visit studios and galleries to connect with artists and their work. 44
Bundle up and enjoy chills, thrills and a warm welcome at the ultimate winter carnival.
Via (ISSN 2473-5183) is published bimonthly by Oregon Media, LLC, 70 SW Century Drive, 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.
Photo by Randy Boverman
In Lincoln City, you don’t need to change a thing— just bring yourself. Here, the coast welcomes everyone, whether you’re chasing the magic of the tides, seeking quiet moments by the fire, or savoring fresh seafood with sandy toes. Embrace the quirky, the cozy, and the carefree, because in Lincoln City, you can come as you are.
Learn more at ExploreLincolnCity.com
HERE FOR YOU
We recently launched our new tagline: AAA—Here for You, which inspires us to continue to exceed member expectations. It is a statement that reinforces our commitment to community partnership and outstanding service that has been core to our Club’s DNA for more than a century.
We proudly call Oregon and Idaho home. We’re honored to be your friends and neighbors. And we are here for you with roadside assistance, discounts, travel, insurance and so much more.
Our Oregon- and Idaho-based Call Center teams are ready to assist when life is at its most challenging. We also continue to expand our Fleet operations in the Portland Metro area, Southern Oregon and the Treasure Valley area to keep pace with member needs.
My wife Missi and I recently hosted AAA members on a President’s cruise to Croatia. As I was reminded during our conversations, we unleash the power of community whenever—and wherever—we connect. Whether it’s halfway around the world or at a clean-up project in a city park, uniting around a common goal brings amazing results.
As you know, AAA can help you plan your next vacation and review your insurance coverage. We’re happy to help via email, phone, video conferencing or in person. We invite you to visit a AAA Service Center near you. Please stop by to meet our team and to explore our Travel Store. We have several locations to serve you, with plans for new and improved Service Centers in Astoria, Oregon, and in Meridian, Idaho.
Because you’ve discovered the value of AAA membership, you may want your friends and family members to experience the same peace of mind. For help setting up a gift membership this holiday season, please visit AAA.com/gift or speak with one of my colleagues by calling us at 888-422-2503.
DIRECTORS + OFFICERS
chair Steven H. Corey pendleton
vice chair elizabetH J. Cawood eugene
president tim morgan portland
treasurer C.e. “win” FranCiS bend
We look forward to seeing you at a future community event or neighborhood service project. As the “Artisan Connections” article in this issue of Via can attest, we are truly fortunate to live in these special places. Thank you for your partnership over the years. We’ve put down roots and we’re here to stay.
I’d like to hear about your experiences with AAA. 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 DIRECTORY
FOR GENERAL INFORMATION CALL (888) 422-2503 OR VISIT AAA.COM
CONNECT WITH US
AAA.com
facebook.com/ AAAoregonidaho
instagram.com/ AAAoregonidaho
info.oregon.AAA.com/ via-magazine
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
(800) AAA-HELP (800-222-4357)
MEMBERSHIP SERVICES (888) 422-2503
SERVICE CENTERS AAA.com/Locations
INSURANCE SERVICES
AAA.com/Insurance
Policyholders (866) AAA-INSURE (866-222-4678)
New sales (866) AAA-QUOTE (866-222-7868)
TRAVEL SERVICES
AAA.com/Travel (800) 529-3222
CAR BUYING SERVICES
AAA.com/carbuying (877) 503-4222
OREGON
Beaverton 8555 SW Apple Way
Bend 20350 Empire Blvd. Clackamas 10365 SE Sunnyside Rd. Coos Bay 1705 Ocean Blvd. SE
Corvallis 1836 NW Ninth St., Ste. 110
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
{SMART TRAVEL}
MULTIGENERATIONAL TRAVEL
Avoid stressful holidays by planning a family vacation focused on quality time. A tip from AAA professionals? Pick a destination with entertainment options for every age, such as beach resorts or cruises. These offer both relaxation and recreation. Bring the whole family to create memories that last for years to come.
SAFETY FIRST Be prepared for winter weather
FUEL SAVINGS
The holiday season is approaching, and with growing gift lists and vacation itineraries, it’s important to stay mindful of a budget. Before packing up the car to see loved ones, join the Fuel Rewards® Program at Shell. AAA members save 30 cents/gallon on their first fill-up and 5 cents/gallon after that. Get started at AAA.com/Shell.
HOLIDAY GIFT
MEMBERSHIP
This holiday, give the year-round gift of AAA. Gifting a membership is fast, easy and valuable. You’ll receive peace of mind knowing your loved ones are covered, while they enjoy a year of trusted emergency road service, awesome discounts, travel perks and more. See AAA.com/gift.
HOLIDAY DECOR & MORE
Take your festivities to the next level with 1800Flowers.com’s family of brands. AAA members save up to 25% on floral arrangements, keepsakes, gourmet gift baskets, meals and desserts! To get started visit AAA.com/1800Flowers
WINTER PREP
Don’t let Mother Nature get the best of you this winter. Preparation is key. Find AAA winter-ready resources, including tips on traction devices, links to local road conditions and AAA-exclusive member discounts for all aspects of the winter season at AAA.com/winterprep.
DON’T GET CAUGHT WITH OVERWEIGHT BAG FEES
Plan ahead and save the surprise of overweight bag fees with the MüV® Digital luggage scale from Travelon. It’s compact, lightweight and conveniently goes from pounds to kilos with the press of a button. Find this and other travel accessories at your nearest AAA Travel Store. AAA.com/locations.
DEALS
GIFTS FOR TECHIES
Have a tech enthusiast to buy for this holiday season? AAA has you covered. Discover savings on the latest gadgets and accessories from Dell. From laptops and desktops to headsets and gaming PCs, find
the perfect gift a few clicks away. Shop now at AAA.com/Dell.
HOW HOME AUTOMATION DEVICES CAN SECURE YOUR
HOME
VIDEO MONITORING
Indoor and outdoor cameras are key to preventing break-ins. The simple presence of a camera on your property can deter burglars. Video monitoring provides round-theclock protection, and if connected to an alarm system, ensures constant surveillance on your home.
AUTOMATED LOCKS
Forgot to lock the front door in a rush? Control your locks remotely with automated smart locks. Set them when you’re far from home or schedule access for guests while you’re away.
SMART THERMOSTAT
If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, consider installing a smart thermostat. AAA’s Smart Home thermostat earned an ENERGY STAR® certification from the Environmental Protection Agency in 2018. This device alone can save homeowners 9%-16% on heating in winter and 15%-23% on cooling in summer.
Find more home security and monitoring solutions at AAA.com/smarthome.
TRAVEL TIP: VEHICLE PROTECTION
While vehicles today are built better than ever before, breakdowns happen. A Vehicle Service Contract protects against these unforeseen repairs and expenses. Coverage extends throughout the United States and Canada and may be customized by duration and miles to best fit your driving habits. The electric vehicle-specific Service Contract also covers many breakdown, including the repair or replacement of an EV battery. Learn more at AAA.com/carbuyingservice.
MAINTENANCE
BATTERY BLUES
TIPS FOR SAFER ONLINE SHOPPING
Opting for online shopping to avoid the holiday season crowds? Follow these simple precautions to prevent falling victim to credit card fraud and identity theft.
1. Always use secure Wi-Fi networks when making online transactions. Refrain from using public Wi-Fi networks, such as those found at coffee shops or airports. These networks are more vulnerable to identity theft attacks.
2. Use credit versus debit cards for online purchases. Because credit card purchases aren’t tied to your personal funds, they’re safer to use than debit cards for online purchases. As an extra safety measure, avoid storing your credit card information on shopping websites. If your device is lost, stored account details can be easily accessed by others for fraudulent purchases or to sell your information.
3. Choose trustworthy retailers. Scammers lure victims by creating fake websites, so stick to familiar retailers and websites when you’re shopping online.
Learn more about the identity theft protection included with your AAA membership at AAA. com/protectmyid.
Nothing puts a halt to your holiday plans quite like a dead car battery. Before hitting the road, schedule time to have AAA test your battery, starter and alternator at AAA.com/battery. If you need a new battery, AAA will replace it on the spot and take away the old one. If you’d prefer to do it yourself, AAA members save $22 or more on the AAA Premium Battery at NAPA Auto Parts. Find stores at AAA.com/NAPA
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.
YEAR OF JUBILEE
Historic journey through Italy
Embark on a nine-day pilgrimage to Rome and Assisi with AAA Member Choice Vacations during the Roman Catholic Church’s Year of Jubilee, beginning December 24, 2024. Experience Catholicism’s rich history at Rome’s Seven Pilgrim Churches and the Catacombs. Attend daily mass, the weekly Papal Audience, and receive a blessing from Pope Francis. Explore Assisi, site of the famed Basilica of St. Francis. Marvel at Michelangelo’s Last Judgment in the Sistine Chapel and the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica. This experience explores religious heritage in Italy and Vatican City. From $2,699 per person.
TRAVEL DEALS
NORTH ATLANTIC FRONTIERS CRUISE
Castles, Fjords & History
This 11-day Oceania Cruises itinerary takes guests from Copenhagen, Denmark, through scenic cities of Gothenburg, Sweden, to Iceland. See the Scottish Highlands southwest of Invergordon, and venture west to the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae. Travel to Tórshavn in the Faroe Islands before finding Iceland's landscapes: Akureyri's botanical gardens and Ísafjörður's fjords. Explore culture and natural wonders. Learn about Viking history and see volcanic landscapes. The North Atlantic journey is concluded in Iceland’s dynamic capital, Reykjavík. From $3,799 per person.
KENYAN WILDLIFE
African Safari Adventure
Fall in love with Kenya on African Travel’s 11-day Wildlife Safari. These small-group trips, offered from March to October, start in Nairobi and journey to Samburu, Lake Nakuru and the Maasai Mara. Visit Africa’s most famous locations for game sightings and marvel at endangered animals up close. Daily drives to your guide’s favorite wildlife spots ensure outstanding viewing of lions, rhinoceros, giraffes, antelope and many more animals in their natural habitats. Take in Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes and biodiversity. This allinclusive safari provides luxury accommodations, meals, and flights from New York to Nairobi on Kenya Airways. From $6,659 per person.
ALASKA’S INSIDE PASSAGE
Majestic Wilderness Meets Coastal Allure
Set sail on a seven-day Alaskan cruise with Princess Cruises, starting in Seattle. Journey through awe-inspiring wilderness and dramatic coastlines. Experience Glacier Bay National Park’s towering glaciers and icy blue waters. Discover the charm of coastal towns such as Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway. Encounter an array of wildlife, from humpback whales and sea otters to bald eagles and grizzly bears. This cruise combines natural splendor with cultural exploration. Witness Alaska’s raw beauty and rich heritage on this extraordinary voyage through the Last Frontier. From $1,359 per person.
CARIBBEAN CRUISE
Bahamas, Grand Turk & Puerto Plata
Embark on a seven-night Caribbean journey with Celebrity Cruises from Port Canaveral, Florida. Explore Nassau’s beaches and vibrant markets in the Bahamas. Discover Grand Turk’s turquoise waters and coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Continue to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, to uncover colonial architecture and lush landscapes such as the falls of Damajagua. This cruise offers a combination of adventure, relaxation and cultural exploration. From pristine beaches to historic towns, indulge in the Caribbean’s unforgettable beauty. From $808 per person.
{ON THE ROAD}
CRATERS OF THE MOON AT 100 YEARS
To celebrate the establishment of Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Idaho State Archives presents “Life in the Embrace of the Blue Dragon Lava,” an exhibition by artist Mary Arnold. As a Centennial Artist in Residence for the park, Arnold created paintings reflecting the unique geology and wildlife at Craters of the Moon. The name “Blue Dragon” was inspired by the blue glow and reptilian texture of one of the youngest lava flows in the park. The exhibit shows at the Idaho State Archives through March 16, 2025. See history.idaho.gov/events
Throughout history artists in almost every culture looked to the divine for inspiration. Art was meant to uplift, bringing joy to those who created and experienced it. Today, Shen Yun Performing Arts pays homage to this tradition, weaving the wisdom and virtues of Chinese civilization with ancient legends and modern heroic tales on stage.
Shen Yun brings to its audiences a whole new experience, revealing a China untainted by communist rule. Be prepared to traverse time and space and be mesmerized by the action, humor, and beauty of five millennia. It’s an experience that will uplift your spirit and touch your heart.
“It’s really out of this world! If I had to describe it, the words might be ‘Divine,’ ‘Reborn,’ and ‘Hope.’”
—Christine Walevska, master cellist
“So much depth, and beauty, and spiritual expression, and art. Amazing!”
—Ola
Rafalo, opera singer
—Stage Whispers
ALL THINGS
OLIVE
Through November, Durant at Red Ridge Farms in Dayton, Oregon, hosts the Olio Nuovo festival daily from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy the olive harvest with food, wine and olive oil tasting at the farm’s new Tasting Pavilion. Visitors can wine, dine and finish the afternoon with holiday shopping at a nursery, farm shop and holiday marketplace. See durantoregon.com.
WORLD’S LARGEST NUTCRACKER
Standing at 40 feet tall and weighing more than 16,000 pounds, Herr
Woody Winterguard is the biggest nutcracker in the world. From November 24-January 1, 2025.
Winterguard watches over the Umpqua Valley Festival of Lights at River Forks Park, Roseburg. See uvfestivaloflights.com
CULTURE
EXPLORE
MARITIME ART
Two new exhibitions at the Columbia River Maritime Museum feature the work of Indigenous artisans. “ Ntsayka ilíi ukuk —This is Our Place” shares Chinook Indian Nation culture today through the photographs of Amiran White. “Cedar and Sea: the Maritime Culture of the Indigenous People of the Pacific Northwest Coast” opens November 1 to showcase artisans whose work blends old and new tools in an effort to preserve traditional ways of life. See crmm.org
TURKEY TROTS WORTH THE TRIP
BEND, OREGON
I Like Pie
At the I Like Pie run, held Thanksgiving morning, participants in this 1.5 mile-or 5K event earn a reward of pie. See cascaderelays.com.
WINSTON, OREGON
Wildlife Safari Turkey Trot
You may see cheetahs along the park’s carnivore loop. Don’t worry, the animals are at a safe distance in their enclosures. See wildlifesafari.net
NAMPA, IDAHO Nampa Pumpkin Spice 5K
Take bites of pumpkin pie at the halfway point and conclude with pumpkin spice hot cocoa. See thetreasurevalleyruns.com
PAUL, IDAHO Mini-Cassia Turkey Trot Run, walk or waddle at the 19th annual Thanksgiving tradition. Costumes are encouraged. See minicassiaturkeytrot.com
HOLIDAY SPIRIT
ON THE MOVE
JAPANESE CERAMIC ART
The Portland Japanese Garden hosts “Kintsugi: The Restorative Art of Naoko Fukumaru” through January 27, 2025. Kintsugi is the ancient Japanese method of restoring broken pottery with powdered gold and natural lacquer to highlight the beauty found in imperfection. Artist and master conservator Naoko Fukumaru grew up experimenting with ceramic restoration in Kyoto, Japan, and has more than 25 years of experience. The exhibit explores the themes of healing through artwork. See japanesegarden.org
SUN VALLEY ICE SHOW
On Christmas Eve, Sun Valley Resort, Idaho, lights up the night with its Ice Show, Torchlight Parade and Fireworks Spectacular on Dollar Mountain. After a serenade from Sun Valley Carolers, professional ice skaters take to the ice and put on a holiday-themed show, followed by cookies and hot cocoa served on the Lodge Terrace. See sunvalley.com.
RECOGNIZING NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE
November is Native American Heritage Month, and the Siletz tribe will celebrate with its 47th annual Restoration Pow-Wow at Chinook Winds Casino Resort in Lincoln City. The event honors the anniversary of the restoration of the Siletz as a federally designated Indian tribe in November of 1977, the second tribe in the nation to be restored and the first in Oregon. At 6 p.m. on November 16, a night of tribal dancing and drumming will commence the pow-wow which features Native vendors selling traditional jewelry and artwork. See ctsi.nsn.us
SILETZ TRIBE
ICE SHOW
Nights at the MUSEUM
FIND FEWER CROWDS AND ART AFTER DARK
Just because it’s after hours doesn’t mean there aren’t opportunities to experience expanded options at museums and cultural centers across Oregon and Idaho. Discover art, science and history at offerings designed to engage visitors when the sun goes down. Benefits include fewer people, specific programs linked to a theme and oftentimes food and music. Museum of Idaho takes the idea of a night at the museum seriously with a sleepover amidst the art for third to sixth-grade students, complete with learning opportunities throughout the evening and pizza at midnight. “Our goal with this program is to give kids an experience that connects them to a love of learning
and ignites their curiosity while they build frienships,” said Camille Thomas, director of marketing at Museum of Idaho. Events aren't just for the children. Discovery Center of Idaho hosts exclusive 21+ Adult Nights with drinks, food carts and access to its exhibits, such as “The World’s Largest Dinosaurs,” opening October 12. For the ultimate night out, visit Eugene Science Center or the OMSI's Kendall Planetarium, in Portland, where shows after dark are out of this world.
TIP: Make reservations and buy tickets in advance as these events sell out quickly.
1. BOISE ART MUSEUM . Visit during First Thursday when the museum is open until 7 p.m. See boiseartmuseum.org
2. DISCOVERY CENTER OF IDAHO. Experience Adult Nights (for those ages 21 and above). See dcidaho.org
3. EUGENE SCIENCE CENTER . Friday Night Laser Shows at the Planetarium offer a range of subjects. See eugenesciencecenter.org
4. HIGH DESERT MUSEUM . Watch for speakers' special events, plus extended hours, seasonally. See highdesertmuseum.org
5. JORDAN SCHNITZER MUSEUM OF ART, UNIVERSITY OF OREGON . Visit late each Wednesday, until 8 p.m. when the museum entry is Pay as You Wish on a sliding scale. See jsma uoregon.edu
6. MUSEUM OF IDAHO . “Night at the Museum” offers STEM activities and a sleepover among exhibits for children in grades three to six. Find monthly gatherings for adults, 21 and above, that include activities and games along with drinks and hors d'oeuvres. See museumofidaho.org
7. OMSI (OREGON MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY). The After Dark monthly gatherings offer food, drinks and science demonstrations to those 21 and older. See omsi.edu
8. PORTLAND ART MUSEUM . During its First Thursday, find free admission, special exhibits and music. See portlandartmuseum.org
*Save $5 per day off the base rate on daily rentals, $15 off the base rate on weekend rentals and up to $25 off the base rate on weekly rentals. Applies to pay later base rate only. Taxes, fees and options excluded. Discount will vary depending on location, date, length of rental, car class and other factors. Promotion Code 211249 and AAA CDP# 177 must be provided at time of reservation for full offer discounts. This offer is available at participating Hertz locations in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. Age, driver, credit and qualifying rate restrictions for the renting location apply. Advance reservation required. Offer not valid and rate change or additional fees may apply in the event of reservation modification, early/late vehicle return or if not returning vehicle to renting location. Valid on all car classes except minivans, large SUVs and Dream cars. Offer has no
and
HIGHLIGHTS IN
Tacoma
BRIGHT SPOTS ALONG THE WATERFRONT
WRITTEN BY JENNIFER BURNS BRIGHT
Seattle’s neighbor, the city of Tacoma, is surrounded by the south end of Puget Sound on a hilly peninsula. With a long industrial history reflecting good times and bad, it shines now as a maritime hub with historic architecture, waterfront walks along Commencement Bay and a charming museum district downtown. Known globally for glass arts spurred on by native son, artist Dale Chihuly, its international dining and shopping districts reflect a diverse population and character all its own. Warm up to Grit City—a reference to its tough resiliency—on a cool winter weekend, whether it’s with bubbling Vietnamese noodle soup, a yule log celebration or hot glass demonstrations.
Things to Do
The city is divided into districts, each with its own character. Plan to visit downtown’s museum and theater districts or the massive Tacoma Dome to take in arts and music performances. Farther afield lie historic Old Town and outdoorsy Point Defiance to the north; the Lincoln International and Lakewood districts to the south offer plenty of Asian culture and a variety of eats.
Bundle up the whole family for a festive holiday outing at the annual Zoolights festival, November 29-January 5, 2025, to see more than 800,000 LED lights crafted into sculptures at the Tacoma Zoo at Point Defiance. Sip hot chocolate as you search for the giant Pacific octopus and Sasquatch along the route. The zoo is open daily to visit everything from sharks to lemurs.
It’s an old-fashioned Christmas at Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, where the Christmas Regale offers parlor games, traditional ornament making and a holiday market on December 7. Children can meet Father Christmas and help bring the annual yule log into the fort.
Can’t get enough lights? Downtown Tacoma sparkles—literally—at the Tacoma Light Trail event series from December 31-Jan. 12, 2025. Either walk or drive a self-guided route to see artist-designed light sculptures, accompanied by music and poetry that’s accessed by QR code. There’s also a lighted bike ride and live music and poetry performances.
Shops
Vintage discoveries await at the many shops in Antique Row in Tacoma’s Theater District—don’t miss the three-story maze of collections and curiosities at Sanford & Son. For hip menswear from local makers (think hoodies and tees with designer flair), stop by eTc Tacoma, downtown. Be sure to say hi to shop dog Mona at nearby Stocklist Goods as you browse a fun selection of puzzles, apparel and greeting cards.
Arts and Culture
Visitors don’t need a car to experience many of Tacoma’s museums, as several are conveniently located along downtown’s Museum Row. Make a day of it and enjoy exploring Washington’s history and art, with views of the
Thea Foss Waterway and plenty of places to dine and shop along the way.
Start at the Washington State History Museum, an imposing red brick building with sturdy arches that houses permanent and temporary exhibitions showcasing Washington’s history from Indigenous cultures to the experience of Black Washingtonians. Don’t miss the largest model railroad in Washington, lovingly maintained by a local club. Exit on Level Three for a spectacular walk across the 500-foot pedestrians-only Chihuly Bridge of Glass, surrounded by luminous and colorful creations even more beautiful at sunset.
ABOVE LEFT & BOTTOM: Bridge of Glass
RIGHT Pantages Theater
OPPOSITE PAGE TOP: Union Station
OPPOSITE PAGE TOP: Zoolights at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
Art lovers can immerse themselves in the colorful and sometimes gravity-defying works of Dale Chihuly, whose giant, dripping sea-life-inspired glass sculptures are featured at the Tacoma Art Museum, which also boasts a significant collection of Northwest studio art jewelry and Western American art. At the Museum of Glass, guests can wander through exhibits ranging
from historic studio art movements to kids’ designs and watch live demonstrations in the Hot Shop auditorium.
Eats and Drinks
Breakfast at Campfire Coffee feels like camping downtown with some of Tacoma’s best coffee and breakfast sandwiches, served on hand-built picnic tables fashioned with reclaimed wood. The owners roast the beans over an actual campfire.
For lunch, take the crew to family-friendly seafood joints for classics like fish and chips along Commencement Bay, such as Anthony’s near Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium or its sister restaurant, Harbor Lights.
For beautifully plated seasonal Pacific Northwest dishes, creative cocktails and specialty pizzas, downtown’s Wooden City is highly recommended. Adventurous diners will want to head south from downtown to the Lincoln International and Lakewood districts for Korean, Vietnamese or Chinese groceries and excellent family-owned East Asian dining. For a satisfying bowl of pho beef noodle soup, try Lincoln’s Vien Dong or Tacoma Szechuan in Lakewood for spicy dumplings in chili oil and warming, bubbling seafood hot pot.
Wooden City
McMenamins
Elks Temple Hotel
Sleeps
Fans of glass art can establish a base camp at downtown Hotel Murano, a unique property showcasing Tacoma’s favorite craft. The 319-room boutique hotel features pieces from nearly 50 glass artists, from the chandelier and glass canoes in the lobby to mini-installations on each floor, restaurant and cocktail bar.
The 1916 Elks Temple, transformed into lodging by Pacific Northwest lodging group McMenamins in 2019, offers 45 rooms in a stately white neoclassical building a stone’s throw from Antique Row shopping. Enjoy performances at the on-site concert hall and choose from five eating and drinking venues, or simply wander the halls filled with quirky art and memorabilia.
Getting There
Less than 20 miles from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Tacoma is accessible for a weekend or a quick visit. Hop on the bus to visit the city before a flight or on a long layover. Sound Transit Route 574 provides quick and easy motorcoach transportation from the airport to downtown.
Murano
Mount Hood
Four ways to welcome winter
WRITTEN BY KARA TATONE
The fourth highest mountain in the Cascade Range, the tallest peak in Oregon, the most prominent and volcanic, what the Multnomah Tribe calls Wy’east—this is Mount Hood. Winter here provides a welcome mat for lodging, dining, skiing, sledding and exploring under skies of blue, white and gray, and invites winter wanderers to a historically loved clime of the Pacific Northwest. Mount Hood’s most sought-after historic ski areas and winter recreation sites are connected via Highway 26, a 60-mile drive (plus or minus) from the Portland metro area along forest-lined roads and winter destinations to ski and stay, eat and play.
SKI
The highest destination on the Mount Hood map is Timberline Lodge, located six curved miles up to its timberline—the altitude above which few trees grow. Here, history and winter recreation live together. Built in 1937, the lodge has stood as a National Historic Landmark since 1977 and continues to host visitors from around the globe who come to enjoy the views from its 6,000-foot perch.
Timberline has bragging rights of operating the first chairlift in Oregon (the second in the United States),
the Magic Mile which began in 1939. Since then, it has achieved two other firsts: It’s the only ski area in the United States to operate 10 months a year and it's the only ski area with 4,540 vertical feet of skiable terrain, with its runs found at Government Camp's Summit Pass. Its high-alpine sister, Mt. Hood Meadows, is known for its snowfall and learning environment. With one of the largest ski schools in the Pacific Northwest, Mt. Hood Meadows offers accessible terrain on lower-lying and tree-protected runs, for all levels—beginners and powder hounds alike. Since opening in 1969, Mt. Hood Meadows
TOP Skiers of all levels enjoy a range of terrain
BELOW LEFT Timberline Lodge at night
MIDDLE Government Camp
RIGHT Cooper Spur Mountain Resort
boasts 87 trails, more than 2,000 skiable acres, an average snowfall of 35 feet and the area’s longest run of three miles. Down the hill, Mt. Hood Skibowl has night skiing under lights on 36 runs, making it the largest night-skiing operation in the United States with three chair lifts to access its Upper Bowl after dark.
For more advanced athletes, Palmer snowcat service runs up to three trips per day and can take 12 riders to the top of Palmer summit at 8,540 feet. Skiers and riders begin at Summit Pass of Government Camp, take a shuttle up to Timberline Lodge and then to the Magic Mile lift to meet the pickup cat at the top of Palmer. The cat ride is first come, first served.
Teacup Nordic paves the way for cross-country skiing. Volunteer-powered, the nonprofit cares for and grooms. Fifteen miles of snow track from flat and easy to challenging hills and turns. Classic and skate skiers of all ages are welcome. Founded in 1979, Teacup is just “below” Bennett Pass across from Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Area and is often skiable November through May.
STAY
Timberline Lodge is a classic ski-and-stay destination. Architecturally built with a roofline to mimic the iconic peaks and ridgelines of Oregon’s tallest mountain, the lodge pays homage to history and art, welcoming guests to ski-in or ski-out from suites to bunk-style spaces.
Down the mountain road, the incorporated communities of Mount Hood Village include Brightwood, Welches, Zigzag and Rhododendron— convenient and unique basecamps to the upper reaches of Mount Hood. For 30 years, Mt. Hood Vacation Rentals has connected homeowners to visitors in the Mount Hood corridor with cabin and cottage stays, riverfront or creekside abodes and pet-friendly places.
Cloud Cap Inn was built in 1889 near the time of the first documented mountain excursions on Mount Hood. Today, you can tour the historic Inn or visit Cooper Spur Mountain Resort, located on the mountain's north side. Harkening to the early days of skiing, one double chair lift operates nine runs on 50 acres of beginner and intermediate terrain with 400 vertical feet. The ski area is located steps from log cabin resort accommodations, and Pacific Northwest farm-to-table meals are on the menu at Crooked Tree Tavern & Grill.
EAT
Family-owned and operated since 1966, Huckleberry Inn at Government Camp is a popular breakfast spot named for Oregon’s famed berry. Before gearing up for winter recreation, take a seat at the old-fashioned diner counter or a cozy booth. Pancakes are prominent on the breakfast menu, as are huckleberry pie and ice cream which are served all day.
The views inside Timberline Lodge’s Ram’s Head Bar & Restaurant and Cascade Dining Hall are as picturesque as the scenery outside. The lodge’s historic 800,000-pound stone chimney serves as the centerpiece to these two eateries. Regional foods satisfy an après ski palate, along with family-friendly fare such as parker house pretzel buns and West Coast clam chowder. The Mount Hood region’s farm-to-table-inspired cuisine is presented in the Cascade Dining Hall where artisanal cheeses, wild steelhead and fire-roasted Fuji apple crisp are eloquently plated.
Farther down Highway 26, satisfy a sweet tooth at Joe’s Donuts in Sandy. This eye-catching red, white and brick building has made donuts since 1974 and serves all the classics: maple bars, powdered, jelly- or cream-filled versions, along with traditional chocolate and, of course, those covered with sprinkles.
PLAY
Mount Hood winter sports aren’t only about lift-served skiing. Try tubing, sledding or tobogganing. Mt. Hood Skibowl provides the tubing tracks and a conveyor belt to reach the hilltop. Reservations are required, and the sled area does sell out. Riders must be 36 inches tall.
Summit Pass offers a single-chair lift to serve a tubing hill, doubling as learning grounds for beginner and intermediate skiers and riders. Summit is the second oldest, continuously operating ski area in the United States in the heart of Government Camp.
Another mile-and-a-half higher, the Snow Bunny SnoPark presents sledding and tubing offerings with opportunities on small or large hills. Snow Bunny is a BYOS (Bring Your Own Sled) operation that provides plenty of snow.
An Oregon native and Portland-based writer, Kara Tatone also calls Colorado home. For more than two decades she wrote for regional newspapers and magazines while living in its small mountains towns .
Huckleberry Inn
Mt. Hood Skibowl
CONNECTIONS Artisan
Explore and experience thriving maker and art scenes shaping the Northwest’s cultural landscape
WRITTEN BY CATHY CARROLL
The Northwest’s artistic identity, bold, experimental and independent yet collaborative, has given rise to thriving creative communities that are innovative while preserving heritage craft techniques. Experiencing a destination’s art and craft offers a window into its soul, and new spaces are emerging where visitors can engage with local artists and artisans, immersing themselves in the cultural fabric and gaining insight into history and traditions.
Studios, galleries and workshops once hidden from view now invite participation, allowing visitors to witness the creative process and learn from makers inspired by the region’s beauty and heritage.
Exploring maker culture transforms any trip, deepening the connection to place through its creative heartbeat. From hands-on Native American craft workshops to diverse markets, here are ways to pull back the veil on local creative culture.
Boise & Garden City THE COMMON WELL
Head to The Common Well, in an old factory in Garden City, in the Boise metro area, to discover the locus of artists and entrepreneurs who share space, collaborate, network and play. Cofounder Katherine Shaughnessy (pictured above), a fine artist and entrepreneur with a master’s of fine arts from The Art Institute of Chicago, is one of several artists with a full-time studio there. Her mediums range from drawing and
painting to sculpture and video, examining human-versusnature issues, from global warming to migration.
“Working alongside other artists and entrepreneurs is productive and fruitful as we share ideas, give critical feedback, network and collaborate,” she said. “We have created a dynamic yet casual working environment with a contemporary gallery.” Wander through the building to take in or buy works at the gallery, see artists at work, shop at Big Moon Barter, lounge in the common space or work remotely. See thecommonwellboise.com.
SUREL’S PLACE
This integral part of Idaho’s art community offers free or lowcost events each month, including workshops, readings, performances and exhibits. Artists-in-residence from around the United States and abroad range from emerging to established, and all are professional, working artists eager to share their work and processes with the public. They include painters, new-genre artists, sculptors, choreographers, writers and composers.
The space, formerly the home of artist Surel Lee Mitchell (pictured above), anchors Garden City’s Surel L. Mitchell Live-Work-Create District on the Boise River, which buzzes with artists, artisans and creative, artisanal businesses. They stay open into the evening each month for First Friday Art and Studio Stroll, when artist studios, restaurants and businesses feature art events. See surelsplace.org.
Portland
WILDCRAFT STUDIO
The creative programming at WildCraft Studio focuses on craft, textiles, studio art, Native art and nature-based workshops at two studios in Portland as well as on farms, beaches and in forests. The aim is to awaken creativity and deepen an understanding of place through hands-on experiences, from carving wood, drawing and painting to making colorful tufted rugs, cozy felted wool slippers, ceramics and Native American baskets and jewelry.
Artist Brigette Scott-McConville (pictured) of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs shares basketry, beading and cattail weaving skills which she’s learned from elders, especially her grandmother. “I think it’s important to share our culture in a way that represents our people,” she said. “It also is an educational tool to bridge that gap between natives and non-natives.”
She’d received backlash from some tribal members who didn’t want her to share their traditional skills with non-natives, but Scott-McConville, a tribal cultural anthropologist with a master’s in archaeology, asserted its importance. “We all live in this world together and need to be good stewards to the land, to the people, to yourself.”
The act of making beautiful and functional objects by hand also carries holistic, therapeutic benefits, she said. “It’s also a blessing to get back down to earth and just be more one with nature, slowing down and not so fast in life.”
Scott-McConville also owns Salmon King Fisheries, a store in Warm Springs, where she welcomes groups of up to six for Bead and Breakfast, Weave and Breakfast and other experiences in which visitors sip good coffee and tea and savor her culinary creations—homemade biscuits, huckleberry jam, smoked salmon, charcuterie—while doing native crafts. See wildcraftstudioschool.com, salmonkingfisheries.com.
Wildcraft Studio
Surel’s Place
PORTLAND SATURDAY MARKET
This outdoor market of local artisans’ handmade products is the largest one of its kind in the United States, operating for the past 50 years. It happens every Saturday and Sunday from March through December at Waterfront Park and Ankeny Plaza in Portland’s historic Old Town. From intricate mosaic jewelry, handstitched adventure hip-packs, henna body art and hand-bound leather journals to goat milk soap, clothes, surreal art and home decor, the hands that sell every item are the ones that made it. Frequently those hands are in action, plying their craft right at their booths, too. See portlandsaturdaymarket.com.
Bend THE WORKHOUSE
A range of makers, crafting everything from metal works and home decor to fine art, express themselves within its old brick walls. The open, active work studios, a community work table and creative arts classes foster exchange between makers and aim to leverage the power of creativity to build a stronger community and sustainable economy.
A monthly Last Saturday Art Walk encompasses neighboring eclectic shops within the Old Iron Works artist district, with vintage clothing, furniture, home decor and Mud Lake ceramics studio. The area is home to 15 artist spaces and more than 30 cubby spaces for community members. Expect pop-ups, workshops, music, coffee, treats and fun. See theworkhousebend.com.
Based in Bend, Oregon, Cathy Carroll has written about people, places and businesses across the world for major media including Travel + Leisure, Travel Weekly and Forbes
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Portland Saturday Market
The Workhouse
TIS THE SEASON FOR SAVINGS
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QU É BEC CITY Celebrates Winter
WINTER
CARNIVAL
AT ONE OF THE MOST EUROPEAN CITIES IN NORTH AMERICA
WRITTEN BY BRUCE SACH
Open-topped buses start to thin out. Giant cruise ships cast off for the last time. Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest fortified city in North America, appears to be settling in for a long Canadian winter.
Visitors to Québec City, the former capital of the French Empire in the Americas, consistently refer to it as “the most European city in North America.” Could it be the cobbled streets, lined with centuries-old buildings, some dating back 400 years?
The city’s name was taken from the Algonquin word kebec, which means “where the river narrows.” The French realized this easily defended location was the perfect spot to build a fort.
Charles Dickens called it the “Gibraltar of North America” because of its strategic location. Regardless of how it’s referenced and in what language, Québec City’s winter season is as active as the summer.
Visitors spending time in Québec City from December to February may very likely learn at least two essential French words in this city where French is the primary tongue: neige (snow) and glace (ice).
During its long history, Québec City has had its share of the brave and noteworthy residents, many of whom have statues in and about the city and in front of the provincial legislature. However, during its winter carnival, ice statues almost outnumber the more permanent statues.
LE CARNAVAL DE QUÉBEC
Visitors who attend one of the largest winter festivals in the world, Québec Winter Carnival, Le Carnaval de Québec, will celebrate its 71st anniversary during the coldest month of the year, February 7-16, 2025. Activities include crossing the huge St. Lawrence River by canoeing through ice and parading at night when the temperature drops below minus 20 degrees. Be it Celsius or Fahrenheit, it’s cold. Not surprisingly, the carnival mascot is a snowman.
One of the many highlights of the week is the canoe race, two miles back and forth across the ice-laden St. Lawrence River from Québec City to Lévis. Teams push and row across a stretch of water, slush and chunks of ice, celebrating a long-standing
tradition. Winds and currents make this a dangerous sport. A winter race going back to 1894, it predates the festival and is a trademark event of what is referred to in both English and French as Carnaval.
Activities requiring love of the cold include attending one of the two evening parades and having a snow bath, where carnival-goers frolic in a water fountain filled with snow. Should you miss the snow bath, taking place only on the final day of Carnaval, you might want to try the Strøm Spa. This will allow you to try the Nordic spa experience that’s popular across the province of Québec. Bathers first experience the extreme heat of a dry or wet sauna and then a dip into a pool of almost frozen water. Physical stress melts away as endorphins are released and muscles relaxed. Your immune system will thank you. A centerpiece to the festival is the Ice Hotel, a structure made from ice and snow, which brings visitors from across the globe to stay overnight where interior
OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP: Decorated for the holidays in Québec City. BOTTOM: Canoe race at the Québec City Winter Carnival.
THIS PAGE, LEFT: Ice Hotel
RIGHT: Place Royale in the Quartier Petit-Champlain, Québec City.
temperatures are kept between 23 to 26 degrees Fahrenheit. The hotel is rebuilt each year for Carnaval and welcomes guests with drinks served in glasses made of ice and sculpted on site, and with beds made from slabs of ice. Another Carnaval tradition is the Quebec International Pee-Wee hockey tournament, going strong since 1960.
THE CHÂTEAU FRONTENAC
It is almost impossible to visit the old section of Québec City without strolling past the Fairmont Château Frontenac, the city’s best-known landmark and considered to be one of the most photographed hotel in the world.
At the Château Frontenac, a vestige of the grand hotels from the railway era, visitors can enjoy some of the finest dining in Québec City. High tea is served at its Place Dufferin restaurant overlooking The Dufferin
Terrace and walkway. The hotel’s Champlain Restaurant serves local cuisine along with a magnificent view of the St. Lawrence River. On the same terrace are kiosks for maple sugar treats, a standard among local desserts. To balance the fine dining, try the toboggan run next to the Château Frontenac, in use since 1884.
The oldest parts of town are found at the foot of the Château Frontenac—the historic Lower Town and the Place Royale. The Place Royale, par of the original fortified area of New France, is now surrounded by cafes, restaurants, antique shops and art galleries.
WARMED BY SPORT, CUISINE AND JOIE DE VIVRE
Winter sports activities abound within the city: Crosscountry skiing, skating, snowshoeing, walking, running and tobogganing bring crowds of sport-loving locals to the Plains of Abraham, a short walk from the Old Town. After working up an appetite, enjoy culinary creativity from some of the top chefs in Canada. Experience the renowned 15-20 course menu at La Tanière³, served in a
subterranean chef’s counter cellar, offering a direct contact with the chef and his team.
The Distillerie Arsenal & Co. includes tours of its historic setting in an old munitions factory. In addition to serving dinner and brunch, it houses a conceptual economuseum wherein visitors leave with an education about distilling.
Experience Québec City and Le Carnaval de Québec in winter and find the spirit Québeckers are known for: a warm joie de vivre.
Bruce Sach is a veteran Canadian travel write and, longtime member of both the Travel Media Association of Canada and the Society of American Travel Writers. He is lives in Québec City.
PLAN A TRIP
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