In the world of innkeepers, most things are predictable: late arrivals, cancelled plans, surprise elopements … the works! But 2020 has definitely thrown the world for a loop – particularly those of us in the hospitality business.
Good news! Washington state, and King County have begun their phased open plans – with more restaurants offering limited indoor and outdoor seating, and attractions beginning to re-open. We’ve outlined a few below, and will again next month as others continue this exciting process:
The Woodland Park Zoo opened their doors on July 1st with timed-entry tickets available in advance (available up to 30 days in advance). From the African Savanah to the Trail of Vines, the zoo offers 92 acres of open space with plenty of opportunity for both animal viewing and social distancing. https://www.zoo.org/visit
Want a sneak peek The Woodland Park Zoo has a few great webcams to give you a taste of what you can experience: https://www.zoo.org/webcams
Brown bears in the Northern Trails exhibit
Argosy Cruises’ Evergreen Excursion to beautiful Blake Island began 2020 departures on June 26th. The trip, a 5-hour excursion, includes a 45-minute narrated ride over Puget Sound, a plated lunch with succulent steelhead – prepared over an alder pit fire, and free time to explore the island and views across the water to Mount Rainier and beyond. https://www.argosycruises.com/argosy-cruises/evergreen-excursion/
Seattle’s historic Smith Tower Observation Deck is open! Soak in the views of Seattle’s Pioneer Square Historic District and beyond from this 42-story beauty. Completed in 1914, the Smith Tower was the tallest building west of the Mississippi for many years and is famously named for Lyman Smith – of Smith-Corona typewriter and Smith and Wesson firearms. The observation deck offers a small cocktail bar, and extensive inside-and-outside areas for awe-inspiring views or lazy afternoons. https://www.smithtower.com/
Views from WSF are spectacular – both coming and going!
And, of course, nothing is more quintessential than a trip on a Washington State Ferry to Bainbridge Island. Walk-in space is always available for passengers eager to get out and explore this quaint town. At under $10 round-trip, it’s also the best deal in town! https://www.wsdot.wa.govferries/schedule/scheduledetail.aspx?departingterm=7&arrivingterm=3&roundtrip=true
As you’re packing for your upcoming trip, don’t forget to pack your mask. Currently, face-coverings are required in Washington state where social distancing is not convenient. Should this change, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. We look forward to welcoming you to Seattle soon.