7 special activities in Seattle for Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day is a day set aside to remember the service and sacrifices of our countrymen. But it’s also about getting together with friends and family, and enjoying some of the experiences that America has to offer. What better way to show your appreciation to our hard-fighting veterans than to celebrate American history, spirit, and independence this year as you explore some of Seattle’s best Memorial Day activities?

Whether a family outing or romantic getaway, scenic Bainbridge Island has something for everyone. Marvel at the curated work from local artists at the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (where admission is free). Nature lovers can explore the pastures, woodlands, and gardens of the Bloedel Reserve, or camp along the gorgeous Puget Sound shoreline at Fay Bainbridge Park. And be sure to grab a cone at the immensely popular MORA Iced Creamery.

There are a few ways to get to Bainbridge Island, but the easiest is to simply catch the ferry from the downtown Seattle waterfront, which departs about once per hour – check the schedule online.

When: May 26-29
Where: 801 Alaskan Way (Seattle Ferry Terminal)

After a particularly wet and dismal winter, the weather is finally right for cycling. What better way to celebrate than with a drink or two? Redhook Brewery is a local legend amongst craft beer enthusiasts, while Chateau Ste. Michelle is Washington’s oldest winery and one of the most acclaimed in the nation (they’re also hosting a complimentary live music event on Sunday, May 28). Both offer tours and tastings in nearby Woodinville, about 24 miles northwest of downtown Seattle, so get those legs pumping and earn your reward.

When: Redhook Brewery – 11am-11 pm (May 26-27), 11am-9pm (May 28-29); Chateau St. Michelle – 10am-5pm daily
Where: Redhook Brewery – 14300 NE 145th St, Woodinville; Chateau St. Michelle – 4111 NE 145th St, Woodinville

Located about 100 miles east of Seattle, Leavenworth is perhaps most famous as the town modeled in the style of a Bavarian village. But it’s also a great starting point for a variety of hikes in the Cascades – like Lake Stuart Trail, a long but relatively mild journey through meadows, forests, and rocky switchbacks; or Icicle Gorge Nature Loop, a gentle and scenic path that’s perfect for first-timers and families with children. After a long afternoon of trekking, there’s no better treat than checking out the authentic German architecture and kicking back with a local beer to match.

Where: Leavenworth, WA

A rustic retreat from busy city life, Vashon Island lies in Puget Sound – just to the southwest of Seattle. Sandy shores line the isle’s edge, while wooded trails criss-cross the interior. It all adds up to the perfect weekend getaway, and there are a number of rental cabins and other properties available – just remember that they tend to fill up quickly around the holiday weekend. As with Bainbridge Island, you’ve got a few options for getting to Vashon Island, but the easiest way from Seattle is to board a ferry at Fauntleroy Terminal.

Where: 4829 SW Barton St (Fauntleroy Terminal, Seattle)

If you’re feeling the need for a change of scenery, Portland makes for an excellent weekend getaway. With its progressive ideas, outdoorsy focus, and fantastic coffee culture, Oregon’s largest city is much like Seattle, though perhaps quieter and even quirkier. For some low-key fun strolling around the city center, check out Powell’s City of Books – the world’s largest used and new bookstore – and be sure to drop by Voodoo Doughnut for some of the most unique pastries you’re ever likely to try.

Where: 303 South Jackson St (King Street Station, downtown Seattle)

Famously featured in the opening credits of Twin Peaks, Mt. Si is one of the Seattle area’s most popular hiking destinations. Gaining 3,100 feet and spanning about 8 miles round-trip, the Mt. Si trail is a rewarding climb without being too daunting for relative newcomers. Nearby Mailbox Peak is another excellent option, and a bit more of a challenge that’s sure to appeal to serious trekkers. Note that you’ll need a Discover Pass ($10/car) to park at either trailhead.

Where: North Bend, WA

If there’s one thing Memorial Day is synonymous with, it’s picnics – and thanks to Seattle’s incredible public parks, this is the place to be for outdoor eating. Plop down on the grassy hill at Gas Works Park and take in the panoramic city view, or venture up to Golden Gardens, where you’ll find plenty of grills and picnic tables as well as incredible waterfront vantages of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains. Also worth checking out it is Seward Park, 300 acres of beautiful forests on a peninsula jutting out into Lake Washington, where there’s always plenty of room to pull right up alongside the water.

Where: Gas Works Park – 2101 N Northlake Way; Golden Gardens – 8498 Seaview Pl NW; Seward Park – 5900 Lake Washington Blvd S

This Memorial Day weekend, enjoy all that the Pacific Northwest has to offer in and around Seattle.