A lot of people go on big, extravagant vacations during spring break. But, what about those who don’t? Here in Shoreline, you may find yourself feeling like there is nothing fun to do that is close to home. However, as someone who isn’t a massive fan of traveling, I believe otherwise. So, I have put together a handy list of places in and near Shoreline, to help you plan an amazing “stay-cation.”
Washington Park Arboretum
The Washington Park Arboretum is a large garden that is open for tours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day. It is a very popular attraction in the area. The garden is home to the Seattle Japanese Garden, the 2-mile Arboretum Loop Trail, and its “most iconic” attraction, according to the Arboretum website, Azalea Way. The Arboretum is a great place for anyone whose idea of a vacation is seeing and experiencing nature. The Arboretum is located in Seattle, near Lake Washington, about 10 miles away from Shoreline. For more information, you can visit botanicgardens.uw.edu/washington-park-arboretum.
Richmond Beach
If your idea of a vacation is the beach, rather than the forest, this is the place for you. A popular beach in the area, if you can find a sunny day, I highly recommend going there. Not only is there obviously a beach, there is a park as well, and it’s a great place to have dinner and watch the water. Richmond Beach is open every day from dawn to dusk. Even if it does rain, that only serves to keep people away, and let you have more of the beach to yourself!
Another Castle
If going outside isn’t your cup of tea, or you’re a more geek-y person, a very cool place to visit is Another Castle. It is a cute little store that contains mainly video games, and also video game merchandise. If you’re a fan of games from any era, old or new, this store is an awesome place to check out. They also have an arcade right there in the store! So, if you’re looking for something engaging and hands-on, Another Castle is the place for you. It’s one of my personal favorite places in Shoreline, and I barely even play video games these days. I’m just mesmerized by the variety of what they have, and the “vibe” as some may say, is great. Located at Aurora Ave. is Another Castle. Located at 23303 Hwy 99 Ste A, Edmonds, they are open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day.
Alderwood Mall
Alderwood Mall is by far the most popular mall in the area. I personally love Alderwood Mall, because not only is it full of stores to shop in, it’s surrounded by restaurants both directly in the mall complex, and in the area around the mall. I had my 16th birthday party there, which was probably the best day of my life, so what else can I say? It’s a popular location for a reason, and walking the mall is a great way to spend the day, whether you buy something or not. Located at 3000 184th St SW, Lynnwood, the mall is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday – Saturday, and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays. By the way, it smells good inside the mall, unlike a lot of places you would find yourself in during a far-away vacation.
Third Place Books
Third Place Books is in my opinion the best book store ever. Half Price Books in Lynnwood is also great. However, Third Place is huge. So, if you’re a fan of reading, this is going to be Heaven for you. Trust me, I know since I used to be a bookworm. The store, located at Located at 17171 Bothell Way NE #A101, Lake Forest Park, is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day. For more information, visit www.thirdplacebooks.com/lake-forest-park.
Pike Place Market
This one is farther from Shoreline, but it’s also the most famous of all of these locations. People who don’t live here actually know of Pike Place, and it’s a top tourist spot in Downtown Seattle. There are tons of shops to explore, with something for everyone, and I truly do mean everyone. Even all of the Russian antique collectors at Shorewood (I’m sure there are many) will find a shop that’s up their alley! With how popular it is, Pike Place can get quite crowded, but it’s a must for any “cations” near Seattle, whether it’s the vacation or “stay-cation” variety. Hours will vary between businesses in the market. For more information (and the definitely true possibility of a real fish flying out of your computer screen), visit www.pikeplacemarket.org.
Shoreview Park
Back to nature, a great hike to try is Shoreview Park. It’s a very beautiful and brisk walk, but it’s not too difficult. Even people with broken backs (i.e. half of my family, for some odd reason) can enjoy this hike. If you’re looking to barely leave your house at all, yet you want that “vacation” feel, this may be the best option for you. One summer, I walked through Shoreview nearly every day with my family, and we never tired of it. You can explore here from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day.
If you have no plans of traveling far away during your spring or summer break, but you still want to make the most of it, there’s plenty to do close to home!
