For a long, long time I've wanted to start taking road trips. Big, giant, crazy, ridiculous, time consuming, old fashioned road trips. I've always loved the pace of long drives, how the landscape changes and you get to see things you would miss out on otherwise. The diners and funny shops owned by someone's aunt are my favourites.
For a long time, I've tried to synchronize watches with my work & home so I could carve out exactly enough time to go somewhere a little farther than into the northern most central states America has to offer. But it always seems like that kind of time commitment is better spent flying to see family in other parts of the world, or like the timing won't sync up no matter how I try to force it. A Big Proper Road Trip is a commitment, and while you may not lose your luggage it forces you to change your pace and live outside the normal passage of time, in a place where rest stops and airstream trailers rule.
This winter, I tried again. I wound my watch and held it up against all the other schedules I'm tied to- and in May? There was space! And not just a little space, but ten days of it! And not just over any weekend, but over my twenty fifth birthday!
Where are we going, you ask?
And I can't wait!
We're spending a big chunk of time tucked away in an amazing rural space, nestled into a tiny cabin between breweries and diners, and the rest will be spent on the road, reconnecting with old friends, listening to public radio and reading. I can't even fathom about how amazing these ten days will be. It will be relaxing, rapid fire, and two days after I come home I'll be getting my tattoo. /happy sigh
I love planning these things, but I need your help! Do you have any recommendations for shops or restaurants in Seattle, Vancouver, or Calgary that I need to visit? I can google all I want, but you have the best taste- please give me your suggestions! They might even show up in a video blog down the road…. =)
LAST UPDATED ON: April 12th, 2010
CATEGORY: All Posts
Seattle is amazing! I may be a little biased….since I live here and all… It’s gorgeous here right now, which means there is lots to do. I’m constantly discovering new little places. Today I discovered a new coffee shop (Cherry Street Coffee Company). It’s fun just to walk around and discover all the little shops and restaurants. Enjoy Seattle! There really aren’t many places like it!
Three cheers for Seattle!
Breakfast happy hour (who ever heard of such a thing?!): Pesos
Dinner happy hour: Barolo
–get the $6 lamb burger
Biggest and best antique mall: Fremont Vintage Mall
–they have furniture AND clothes, very tasteful
Learn to dance almost any day of the week: Century Ballroom
–one hour lesson followed by open dance floor… loads of fun
.-= Julia´s last blog ..Fiance and I. =-.
http://www.bauhauscoffee.net/
Bauhaus Coffee shop is so fun – it would be perfect to grab a coffee and sit outside amongst all the hipsters that visit in the sun :)
I grew up near Seattle and I have been to so many places there. People above listed even more places I have never been!
One place is a must, if you go up to Broadway, a bit off the road is an absolute must for Vegetarians. It’s one of my favorite places of all time- http://www.hillsidequickie.com/
The Sage Cafe is the one near Broadway.
If you want EXCELLENT tasty martinis for $5 during happy hour, go to The Chapel. I love the Chloe, it has lavender in it!
http://www.thechapelbar.com/#/about/
(and it isn’t as snooty-dress up as the site makes it seem)
In Bell town, on 2nd ave, near Pike Place Market is- http://www.mamas.com/ if you’re in the mood for mexican. This area has a lot of cool dive bars near by if you want to walk around. Shorty’s has the game pac-man as the table itself.
Over in Ballard, near Fremont, there’s a great farmer’s market on the weekends and I liked Root Table… it has decent veggie stuff.
http://www.roottablerestaurant.com/
It’s also near Delancy as mentioned above.
ENJOY YOUR PNW trip! I love and miss that place.
.-= Haley´s last blog ..the way the bones crumble =-.
Hey Kyla,
Okay so I am a former Winnipeger now living in Vancouver for the last three years. I have MANY recommendations. A lot that I haven’t seen mentioned yet:
FOOD:
For vegetarian, one of my favorite places is called Bandidas on Commercial drive. They have the best mexican/veggie breakfast (http://bandidastaqueria.com/) And you must try their cornbread with honey butter – to die for!
Actually Commercial is really great for restaurants in general and has an eclectic mix of people which I think you would enjoy. Great sushi: Sake Maki (for your husband maybe?)
Main street has good restaurants as well such as Habit and Cascade Room.
Must stores on Main street (google these):
Royal Assembly of Text
Front and Company
Twigg & Hottie
Ark
Eugene Choo
Vancouver Special (architecture stuff)
Many others inbetween
Main is a little stretched out so be prepared to walk a little between stores.
South Granville is nice too – a little higher end with places like Pottery Barn, Williams Sonoma and Restoration Hardware (skip it if you don’t like these places).
4th Avenue in Kitsilano is fun too, but also more “yuppy”. Here is where you will find Gravity Pope aka shoe heaven.
And Robson street has more of the chain stores but is fun for people watching.
There is a forever 21 (XII) at Metrotown if you need to go there and an H&M and Urban outfitters downtown.
Sites:
One thing I think thats worth doing because you’re from the prairies is going up Grouse Mountain on the gondola. It’s a fun drive to the bottom of the mountain then you take the Gondola up and have a view of the whole lower mainland. This is a must on a clear day and in May there will still be snow on the mountains.
Oh and BEST FABRIC STORE EVER: Fabricana in Richmond. It doesn’t look like it from the outside or the website but it’s great if you’re into quilting fabrics.
E-mail me if you are looking for something specific and I can point you in the right direction. I know these parts pretty well by now!
Take care,
Robin (rawbean)
As for shopping in calgary –
steeling home on 17th ave – random everything super cool store
– purr (in kensington and on 17th) – women’s clothing
– divine (down the stairs beside hot gossip) on 17th ave. at the back they have a great vintage section!
also – if diner deluxe is closed or busy for breakfast – just down the street is over easy breakfast which is fab.
.-= Michelle E´s last blog ..A bunch of words =-.
Oh oh oh! I’m going to be in Seattle in June. So close, but not quite!
I am dying to go to Vancouver! I’ve never been.
Can’t wait to see the pictures you will take!!!
.-= Allie´s last blog ..Spring Cleaning =-.
Ohhh I’m so excited for you! I’m really really hoping the mister and I can do Seattle for our anniversary next year (this year we’re hoping for Charleston, SC) so hopefully you’ll have lots of good tips for us! Can’t wait to hear more about this!
.-= Becky´s last blog ..Ohh sweet Friday =-.
Vancouver breakfast: The Elbow Room
Oh wow, so exciting! I’m pretty jealous! Can’t wait to live vicariously through it while I’m reading all about it! :)
.-= Janie´s last blog ..Things I Love Thursday =-.
do you read orangette’s blog? she’s a great writer who’s opened a little pizza place with her husband in seattle – it’s called delancey and it looks amazing.
Road trips are so much fun! We did one last summer to Kamloops, Penticton, Seattle and back to Vancouver area.
I live in Calgary and am trying to think of things for you to do and see. If you want a nice place to go for a walk, check out Princess Island Park. It’s just off the downtown area and has lots of stuff happening. I saw that someone mentioned the cupcake place and it’s called Crave. I’ve never had one, but they look delicious! If you are wanting a soup/sandwich type of place, check out the Lazy Loaf and Kettle. You get to choose exactly what you are wanting on your sandwich and lots of healthy options.
When are you doing this roadtrip?
How fun! I love a good road trip. I’ve been wanting to go to far away places lately that haven’t been feasible to visit by car, but I’m thinking I need to carve out some road trip space for myself and the husband.
.-= terra´s last blog ..And then there were some more birds =-.
Sounds like an awesome road trip planned! I grew up in Seattle and there is one awesome pizza restaurant you should go to. http://www.spartaspizza.com/ This is the only restaurant I’m looking forward to going to again when I visit in June.
.-= steph anne´s last blog ..Money Free Activities! =-.
How fun! What a great way to spend your birthday. I’ve actually never visited any of those cities… I’m looking forward to your recap!
.-= Melissa’s Oklahoma´s last blog ..So Sad, but Often So True =-.
I highly recommend Diner Deluxe (previously recommended by Gill). Breakfast and an atmosphere to die for. There is usually a line, so I suggest going early or giving yourself some extra time. It’s most definitely worth it.
Will you still be there on Saturday morning or are you leaving on Friday?
.-= Manderz´s last blog ..Meet Manderz Monday =-.
This trip sounds amazing! I’m planning a road trip of my own, but in the U.S. this summer. Yay!
That sounds like so much fun! I have never been to any of the cities so I have no suggestions for you but enjoy and take loads of pictures!
.-= Karen´s last blog ..Protected: A picture says more than words =-.
I will be taking *tons* of pictures- I’m so excited for the chance! I think I’m going to actually rent a nice lens before we go just to make sure it really counts. =)
Some more ideas:
If you’re going to Mt. Rushmore after May 1st you should drop by the Norwegian Stave Church in Rapid City just to see it. It’s crazy that they built one there:
http://www.chapel-in-the-hills.org/
If you’re up for a drive, go east to Wall, South Dakota for the weirdest little town on the planet. Check out Wall Drug and their free ice water, stay at the Holiday Inn that only has luke warm water, take a slow drive through the badlands and go visit the Minuteman missile silo on the way back. It’s a bit of a drive (“bit” being a bit of an understatement) but it’s true Americana at it’s very finest:
Wall, SD on Google maps:
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=wall,+south+dakota&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=50.956929,135.263672&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Wall,+Pennington,+South+Dakota&ll=43.991024,-102.234521&spn=0.022817,0.066047&t=h&z=15
The Minuteman Missle National Historic Site:
http://www.nps.gov/mimi/index.htm
.-= Morten Rand-Hendriksen´s last blog ..PinkAndYellow.com resurfaces with a new design =-.
Thank you so much Morten, the Chapel in the HIlls looks wild! Like it’s meant to service the spiritual needs of neighbourhood hobbits! lol
ps – I’m there, if only on the off chance that that’s exactly what it’s there for
I grew up in Norway and had one of those churches right in my city. They are actually really cool. Unfortunately when we went there it was early November so the place was closed. Big bummer. Hope you have better luck.
.-= Morten Rand-Hendriksen´s last blog ..PinkAndYellow.com resurfaces with a new design =-.
I would just like to say, I notice CHICAGO is not on this road trip list.
AHEM.
lol I know! I’m actually going over Vegas so I figured best not to go when the social media contingent of the city has been evacuated ;)
Don’t worry, you guys are on my list! I think we’re going to DC in September and then Vegas & Chicago next year. I have to meet Edie sometime, what better than to make a pilgrimage? =)
Bf and I went on a similarly huge road trip last year, and we stayed in Seattle for 4 days. The only thing I can urge strongly is to GO TO THE PIKE PLACE MARKET. It’s amazing and everything I ever want in life. All in one place. Love.
.-= Kara ´s last blog ..Blast from the past =-.
It’s definitely on my list, thank you so much for the heads up! I have a feeling that having fully charged camera batteries is going to be key =)
oh i should add in if youre on a ime constraint dont waste your time in art central other than going to shishismo (another clothing store- they’re big fans of the peg) and the glenbow museum – everything else is a bit of a let down – 17th ave is pretty entertaining!
.-= Gill´s last blog ..Throw back… =-.
just went to calgary to visit kaja and she inroduced leslie and i to the coup (local vegan organic restaurant), diner deluxe (amaaaaazing retro style diner with bakery attached), and Divine (Kaja’s favourite store – on 17th ave. a mix of vintage and new clothing + a tattoo shop)
.-= Gill´s last blog ..Throw back… =-.
Retro style diner?? Gill! You’re amazing. And of course- Lana used to WORK at Divine and it didn’t even occur to me to check it out, thank you for the reminder =)
I wouldn’t mind visiting a few of those. Have fun planning it! I won’t say enjoy it yet though because we’ll be hearing more about it before hand I’ve no doubt!
.-= Charlie´s last blog ..Becoming Mother Week: Monday – Thursday =-.
lol Oh dear, I’m afraid you know me quite well don’t you? It’s a feat of will power that I haven’t been updating you with my progress on everything down to hotel bookings… but don’t worry, I’m well aware that’s what my twitter is for ;)
That sounds so amazing, especially in time for your quarter-century mark! I would recommend amazing places for you to check out, except I haven’t been to those areas myself yet. I look forward to hearing what you got to see and check out when the trip is over, so I can keep in mind of what I will have to try one day in the future. :D
I don’t get how some people hate long drives. I actually enjoy it very much with the company of another (preferably during the daytime) plus some off-key singing to the radio/ipod.
Off key singing is crucial! Mister bought an XM radio so we have a constant great supply of music and talk radio (crucial in the mountains) and I’m excited to thoroughly annoy him with my interpretations of jazz standards ;)
Hey Kyla! I could pretty much write you a novel on Vancouver but here are some short and sweet veggie-friendly options.
The Naam is the traditional ‘everyone goes here’ veggie restaurant, as is the Foundation on Main St. Darhma Kitchen is a new, fantastic, vegan/veggie restaurant on the corner of Alma & Broadway in Kits that is out-of-this-world amazing. It’s a tiny, hole-in-the-wall but very Zen, Asian feel to it.
I lived in Calhoun’s, a 24-hour coffee shop on Broadway, while I was there in Feb as well and it’s great fun. They have amazing London Fog’s.
The Eatery is a hilarious take on a traditional sushi restaurant and there are plenty of veggie options. It’s also on Broadway (can you tell that’s my old stomping ground?)
The Reef on Main street is good cocktails and Caribbean food.
The Diamond in Gastown has amazing, unique and wonderful cocktails and amazing tapas, although I forget how much is veggie-friendly. Go for the star-anise & early grey tea cocktail.
Abigail’s Kitchen, on Yew by Kit’s beach also has unique cocktails and fab food. It’s dark and sultry and great but not cheap (also not break-the-bank).
Ok all of these are google-able, and I tried to give you my non-touristy suggestions that I’m sure you already know/can’t miss/etc.
xoxo I am so jealous.
.-= Caz´s last blog ..Mess Around =-.
Oh Caz, these are amazing, thank you so much! I’ve never spent a lot of time in Kit’s and having some great options around Main and Broadway are key from what I know about Vancouver. I definitely didn’t know about these- thank you so much! I just wish you were going to be there to greet me =)
I’m sure you have lots of people to visit while you are in Calgary but you could always hang out with Miss Moira and I for a little while. : )
As for restaurants there are some great vegetarian ones: Most notabley The Coup: http://www.thecoup.ca and Buddha’s Veggie Restaurant which is Chinese food: http://www.buddhasveggie.com (I just saw that they are now serving meat which is new for them but your Mister might like that). Our favourite Indian restaurant is Tandoori Hut and it has a wide variety of veggie dishes too and a FANTASTIC lunch buffet. If I think of any others I will send you an e-mail.
Thank you so much for the links Melanie! I would love to meet up with you in Calgary! We’re going to be through on a work day, but I think we have an evening free- we’ll be in on May 27th & 28th, if you’re around it would be great to see you!
Hi Kyla, I emailed you once before. Please check out my new blog (and wish me luck!!)
Sarah
.-= SARAH´s last blog ..About me =-.
Sarah, you are the cutest, of course I know who you are- thank you for the new link! =)
Ping us when you’re in Van city. Lots of stuff to see here. For eats I highly recommend Green Basil on Kingsway in Metrotown (Thai food – dinner for two serves 4) and The Reef on Main Street (Jamaican food – their Johnny Cakes are to die for).
BTW: Mt. Rushmore is awfully small when you get there: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mor10/4137380034/
.-= Morten Rand-Hendriksen´s last blog ..PinkAndYellow.com resurfaces with a new design =-.
Woah!! It’s a lot farther away than I thought! Thank you so much for the tips- I’ve never been to Metrotown, I think I’ll have to check it out. =)
Yeah, we did a US roundtrip last year… 16.000km. It took six weeks or so and was absolutely grueling, but still fun. You can read about it here: http://www.bylandseaorair.com (though half the trip is still missing from the posts).
Here’s a very good tip for long-haul road tripping: Get some good lumbar support pillows for your seats. Car seats are back killers. They need to be firm and properly angled. Trust me, your back will thank you.
.-= Morten Rand-Hendriksen´s last blog ..PinkAndYellow.com resurfaces with a new design =-.
First, your rushmore picture made me laugh out loud! And that sounds like a great vacation/road trip. One day I want to drive from LA to Seattle. It’ll happen :) You guys are going to have a great trip.
SOMEONE GOT IT!! lol Thank you so much, that made it worthwhile- I was so amused with myself over it =)
So envious of you! I’ve been to Rushmore, but have been DYING, DYING, DYYYYYING to go to Vancouver, Seattle and Calgary for like 20 years or something.
Nothing to note about Rushmore because it was majorly crowded by Sturgis biker dudes (August).
.-= barbetti´s last blog ..Quick Takes =-.
lol My mom actually biked Sturgis a bunch of times, and we’re getting all of her scouting information on routes before we go down. I hope you get to see your dream cities soon! Living right in the middle of the continent makes it so easy to go east or west, it makes up for being in the middle of no where lol
What an amazing road trip! Can’t wait to hear all about it. I haven’t been to any of those places so I am not of any help!!
.-= Lisa from Lisa’s Yarns´s last blog ..Looking Forward =-.
…only you’re of incredible help because you live so close to me!! I’m so excited to see you this summer, and that I finally have a friend in a city I visit on a regular basis in the summer. I think some lunches & knitting sessions are in order =)
Yessssss, me too – all the way! I haven’t really ever gone on a road trip and the past month of two I have been itching to do something. We kind of narrowed it down to a road trip up to Portland, and I would LOVE to take the extra few hours (4??) to Seattle – if we have time! We’d also hit up some cool things along the way of course (mainly having to do with food, duh!). When are you planning your trip for?
.-= Alyssa´s last blog ..Cute Finds – Ring Pillows =-.
That we aren’t going to Portland is the only thing I wish we could improve about this trip! You’ll have an amazing time there I’m sure =)
We’ll be gone for basically the last 10 days of May, it’s going to be a perfect break from daily life.
Wow, that sounds like so much fun! I’ve been on a few road trips and they are just the best.
.-= Stephany´s last blog ..My First “Big Girl” Race =-.
I’m used to short trips- mostly over nights so I’m interested to see how a big one suits me. Have you gone on a long haul? =)
Oh goodness…how I wish I could go on a road trip. Someday…
.-= Bridget´s last blog ..spring break 2010! =-.
You can definitely make it happen! We’ve been working on this idea for a really long time, and finally seeing it materialize is amazing- but day trips for picnics are just as fun =)
what a great trip!! that will be so much fun i can’t wait to hear about it all, wee.
.-= katelin´s last blog ..A lovelypants weekend. =-.
I’m very excited to have a lot of amazing things to report back to you with =)
oh my gosh, how FUN! i was just talking to a friend the other day about wanting to take a road trip this year. i hope you take lots of photos. ;)
seattle is a great city, i have a feeling you’ll love it! i have a lot of family up there and i always enjoy visiting – have a fabulous time! :)
.-= kelly ann´s last blog ..the small stakes. =-.
Thank you so much! It’s definitely a major undertaking but I know it will be an amazing time- and seeing Seattle with Mister will just make everything perfect. I can’t think of a better place to turn 25 =)
How exciting! I hope you guys have fun :D I’m sure it will be a blast. I love road trips!! There is something so organic about them. <3
.-= Lisa´s last blog ..Seeing life as a verb, and coming to terms with doing. =-.
“There is something so organic about them”
Yes! Oh Lisa, here you are putting things into words in exactly the right way again, as usual =)
That sounds like a trip of a lifetime. My husband keeps talking about a Sea/Tac/Van trip–I’ve only been to Oregon, as far as the NW goes.
When you’re ready to head east, I’m here!
.-= Her´s last blog ..Her Cozy Swap =-.
We are! We have a whole bunch of trips planned and seeing you and your city is right at the top of this list- I will definitely be in touch =)
Oh hurrah! I LOVE roadtrips! I’m quite interested to see what you get up to in Vancouver, fingers crossed I’ll be visiting out that way in November :)
.-= Elly´s last blog ..Behind The Bar: Take Two (For Love) =-.
That’s right! I remember you saying that you would be (hopefully) heading that way. As if I need more reasons to hear west. Keep me in the loop! If you come all the way to Canada, you’re not leaving without us meeting up =)
Oh yay! Seattle!!! The suggestions already listed are definitely excellent.
There are several different neighborhoods that I think you would really love. Fremont is fantastic and is just north of downtown. Especially if you’re there on a Sunday because they have an awesome flea market. It’s also pretty close to where Tom Hanks’ house was in Sleepless in Seattle, and where the giant troll under the bridge is located.
Pike Place Market and Post Alley are downtown and are wonderful (I was just there on Saturday!).
Capitol Hill/Broadway is always happening – and I lived there for 4 years so I can give you more details on all the little places. Lots of thrift shops and funky boutiques, and great cafes, bars and restaurants. You should check out Smith or Quinns. And DEFINITELY go to Volunteer Park. There is a really cool plant conservatory there, as well as the Seattle Asian Art Museum. Climb to the top of the water tower for great views. And at the south entrance of the park is 14th Street, also known as “Millionaires Row”. Stroll down these few blocks to see some of the most incredible mansions.
If you want a really nice dinner, try Restaurant Zoe, Wild Ginger, How to Cook a Wolf, Dahlia Lounge or Il Bistro.
There is no shortage of Pho, Thai, Dim Sum and any other Asian food. Especially in the International District. I’ve never had BAD Asian food in Seattle, so you can just wander into any old place and your taste buds will thank you.
If you want to do something active and the weather’s nice, check out Agua Verde Paddle Club. It’s at the south end of the UW Campus. The cafe is amazing – tons of homemade salsas and delicious Mexican food and tasty margaritas. Down below you can rent kayaks and float around either the houseboats in Lake Union (again, where the Sleepless in Seattle house is) or head out toward the arboretum.
Another charming little neighborhood is Madison Park. It’s east of downtown and Capitol Hill and it’s right on Lake Washington. There are lots of great restaurants and little shops. It’s also a very wealthy neighborhood so it’s surrounded by amazing homes.
On Queen Anne, Kerry Park is a must see. It’s where pretty much every scenic postcard photo of Seattle is taken.
Head across Elliot Bay to West Seattle/Alki Beach. There’s a great boardwalk and lots of shops and restaurants, plus stunning views of the mountains and the Seattle skyline.
Ok, that’s enough for now. I’m more than happy to give you any other info you need! Especially for public transportation. It runs really well in the city, so I highly recommend you use it while you stay here. Feel free to e-mail me anytime!
.-= Stevie´s last blog ..Three =-.
Oh Stevie, these are amazing, thank you! I’m so glad that we’ve tucked away enough time there to really explore it- it’s going to be so hard to choose! If I have any questions you will be my first point of contact. You volunteered! ;)
wow – that road trip sounds FABULOUS!!!! I cannot wait for pictures and tales from the road!
.-= tillie´s last blog ..sooooooooo much to look forward to… =-.
I’m really looking for ways to make it an incredible trip that really counts. I think that lots of unique stops and even more videos and photos are the perfect way to make it happen =)
I need to do a major road trip this summer. I just wish I had someone to go with. The hubs probably can’t get off of work though…Too many projects I guess. :(
.-= Mel´s last blog ..obsessive weight loss tales =-.
Oh Sweetie, I’m so sorry! That’s been the place that we’ve been in for the past four years- no one will give us time off and when one of us can get it off the other can’t. It’s infuriating! I’m sure you guys will find a way soon- just give it time =)
This sounds like an amazing road trip!!! Wish I could give you some tips but I’ve never been to any of those places! I truly can’t wait to hear all about it :D
.-= Anais´s last blog ..Ice, Ice, Baby =-.
Oh good, I’m glad you’re looking forward to it! I’m trying to come up with some fun ways to document it- I think a massive video blog is in order =)
I’m so excited for your trip! Driving through the mountains is just amazing, don’t forget to stop at Covert Farms as you pass through the Okanagan. I promise you will not be disappointed.
.-= Elle Bee´s last blog ..Bull rider =-.
Don’t worry, I haven’t forgotten your e-mail =) Thank you so much for the tip! I’m excited to see your part of the country finally!
Oh my dear lord I cannot wait to see you and finally meet Mister! I’m so excited to hear your stories of adventures and little shops and diners you find on the way.
.-= Awmb´s last blog ..Back To School =-.
How you haven’t met him BLOWS my mind, I’m so glad we can fix this!!
For freaking amazing Chinese noodles and such in Vancouver, visit Hons Wun-Tun House! They’re stuff is SOO good :)
http://www.hons.ca/hons_english.htm
.-= Kara´s last blog ..Reflecting on the final year =-.
Oh wow, thank you for the tip and the link Kara! I’ve been to Vancouver many times but I’ve never had ANY Asian food while I’m there. So wrong! I’m going to fix it this time- thanks!
I’m from Seattle, so here we go:
YES to Pike place market, but even BETTER is POST ALLEY, across the street. Try dinner at the Pink Door (no sign, just a pink door) for yummy italian with crazy performers like trapeeze some nights, live music others, The Perennial Tea room with lots of hard to find bulk teas. Great Assam varieties! Rose’s chocolate treasures for handmade truffles. Also, up the hill from the market try the Palace Kitchen for dinner. They have the BEST goat cheese lavender fondue.
NO to EMP and the underground tour, the monorail, the waterfront. All are touristy in a bad way.
Oh Robin, my goodness, it sounds like we are very much on the same page- “goat cheese lavender fondue.”? I would LOVE to try this, and you just pulled my all time, hands down favourite tea variety out of the blue all casually? And handmade truffles?
/swoon
Thank you so much! These will definitely guide me =)
As you know, Sweets and I take a roadtrip at least once a year. In past years, we’ve gone camping within a day’s drive of home and taken multi-day trips to Montana and Cape Cod. For us, the thrill is doing things at our own pace. Avoiding crowds in airports. And getting to bring our dog, too! This summer, our big trip will be back east to Maine and Cape Cod. But, we have a few camping trips planned in Door County, Wisconsin, too!
Your trip sounds dreamy – can’t wait to hear all about it and to see photos, too!
.-= Nilsa @ SoMi Speaks´s last blog ..Productive =-.
I’ve heard that Wisconsin is amazing for camping, I’ll look forward to hearing what you think of it! I think the thing I love most about road trips is the pacing too- and I’m excited to live in that place for an extended period of time. We’re usually 8 hours to Minneapolis and 8 hours back, end of story. Having more flexibility will be wonderful.
SO. JEALOUS. Hubs and I will be in Seattle for a wedding this summer. Can’t wait to hear YOUR suggestions after you visit!
.-= Ashlee´s last blog ..a paint update. =-.
I’ll definitely report back asap! =)
The only place I’ve been out of those four is Mount Rushmore. I spent a few days in South Dakota for a friend’s wedding and I was pleasantly surprised at what I great place it is. Not only is Rushmore really cool, but there is some great camping in that area and we also explored a beautiful cave.
We’re road tripping it to the Carolinas this summer and I can’t wait!
.-= Kathleen´s last blog ..New York, New York =-.
Have a great time in the Carolinas, that’s on our list too for our upcoming road trips =) I’ll need your tips when you’re back!
I’ve heard that Mount Rushmore is really amazing- more than you would think, and Im excited to see if that’s the case. It’s one of those things you have to do, like seeing the Statue of Liberty, don’t you think?
One of the best places to eat in Vancouver is The Red Door. Good Pan-Asian food. :)
.-= Holly´s last blog ..My Newest Camera… =-.
Thanks so much, Holly! I’ve honestly never had Asian food in Vancouver, isn’t that the silliest thing? I’ll have to make The Red Door happen =)
OH man, Seattle food…Well, Tavolata and Machiavelli for Italian, Le Pichet for French, really really amazing late night tacos at Taco Gringos, sandwiches at either Three Girls Bakery in the market or Honeyhole, Black Bottle for the best blasted broccoli in the universe, hand shaved noodles at Shanghai Garden, sushi at Chiso or Umi Sake House…I can go on and on and on and on.
.-= samantha´s last blog .. =-.
Oh wow! Samantha, these are amazing- thank you so much, you covered the spectrum of delicious didn’t you? lol Very excited to check these out, you’re wonderful =)
Vancouver! Yay!
Definitely check out The Foundation if you have time. It’s a fab veggie restaurant on Main and 7th (can’t find a website.)
.-= hillary´s last blog ..Rock Robot Rock =-.
Oh The Foundation sounds awesome, thank you! Although I may have to forgo it for lunch at Steamworks with you… =)
So excited to see you again!
I don’t have any tips or advice, but I am incredibly jealous!! Road trips are my absolute favorite kind of vacation, and I’m dying to take one this summer!
.-= Claire´s last blog ..For You: WAC Zombies II =-.
Oh I hope you’re able to take one- they’re so much fun! We usually take a number of little ones but this big one will be an entirely different beast. I’m really excited =)
What a perfect way to spend your 25th birthday!!! So exciting. I’m convinced a good road trip depends on two things: snacks and music. You should get recommendations for travel music!
.-= Habbala´s last blog ..What a difference a year makes… =-.
“I’m convinced a good road trip depends on two things: snacks and music.” I think that you and I are very much on the same page about these things, miss =) Mister actually bought XM radio so we can have good music and talk radio all through the mountains and the 13 hour driving days, I’m really excited!
KYLA! When you’re going from Calgary to Vancouver will you be going through Kamloops? Do we have time to get coffee – I would LOVE to meet you!! (If not, I understand though :) That’s a lot of traveling for 10 days!)
SO excited for you this is going to be an awesome roadtrip for you and the mister!! I also highly recommend stopping in Banff and going to Lake Louise on your way from Calgary to Vancouver (if you are taking Highway 1). Banff is SO gorgeous. Revelstoke is also gorgeous. If you’re planning on going that way I will send you an email with more information :) XO
Thank you so much for the tips Amber! I can’t wait to meet you! We’ll definitely be in Kamloops for lunch but it’s on a work day so I don’t know if that will work for you- but hopefully we can figure something out =)
When you are in Calgary, be sure to hit up TD Mall, as it boasts a Holt Renfrew that was recently updated :) It’s made of pure Calgary awesomeness.
.-= claudia´s last blog ..giveaway awesomeness =-.
Oh great idea! I haven’t been to a Holt store in years- this would be the perfect chance. Thank you!
Sounds fantastic. I’m worthless in the help category because I’ve never been to any of these cities. But I really want to, so please do post pics. 10 days? Jealous.
My thoughts exactly =)
.-= Katrina´s last blog ..Foster – To feed, to nourish, to support, to bring up =-.
Oh I know! It’s such a luxury to have that time. We always end up using our holidays to visit family so this is the first time in… five years that we’ve gone on a trip that’s wholly our own. Too exciting!
YAY! you are coming to my city!!!!!!!
Ok there are so many things you need to eat see and do in Seattle.
As for food, I have so many recommendations.
1. Drink: for incredible coffee that Seattle is famous for, go to Zoka. for amazing tea, (voted #1 tea shop in the entire U.S. by Forbes magazine) go to The Tea Cup.
2. Sandwiches/Subs: Definitely go to Other Coast Cafe which is in the Ballard neighborhood. The subs are so so so delicious and flavorful. And you absolutely need to wander around Ballard. there are tons of amazing shops that you need to peruse.
3. treats: for cupcakes, which are beyond trendy here, you need to go to Trophy Cupcakes in Wallingford district (where I live) or to Cupcake Royale in Ballard.
ICE CREAM, you have to go to Molly Moon’s in Wallingford. It is ridiculously delicious, my favorite. fresh hand rolled waffle cones, and all handmade incredibly flavored ice cream. my fav is lavender with a lemon curd topping. yum.
4. dinner: marrakesh is a moroccan restaurant with 5 courses, belly dancers, and amazing atmosphere and is just a total of $15 a person. it is my faaaavorite restaurant. (im going there this weekend when my boyfriend visits!) Jai Thai is my favorite thai restaurant in the Fremont district. For a quick and delicious taste of mexican food, go to Rancho Bravo taco truck, really close to my house. Their $5 bravo burritos are so delicious, and i should know, i’m a california girl who has had so much mexican girl in her life time!
there is my quickest low down on food. i could go on and on. ps, we should skype sometime and I can tell you more about fun things around seattle :)
.-= Moorea Seal´s last blog ..Bloom: The Elephant Bed by John Grade =-.
Moorea, your tips are amazing, thank you so much! These are exactly up my alley! We’ll be through on May 23 & 24th so you’ll have to pick your favourite of these options and we’ll do it together. Deal? =)
Gah!! You’re coming to Mt Rushmore???? In May?? My heart did a little drop when it read that. How come you ask?
1. I live 3 hours from Mt Rushmore. Rapid City is our closest mall. It’s where I go to the eye dr. It’s no biggie to run down there for the day. In fact, hubby and I were just there on Saturday.
2. We’re leaving MT at the beginning of May. Which means we’ll be gone when you come through town. Which means I won’t be able to meet you. Which makes me sad!!
Anyways, if you’re interested in visiting some small, small towns with western charm, let me know and I’ll give you some info!
.-= rachieannie´s last blog ..The One Where I Participate In 10 On Tuesday (#7) =-.
I miss you by thatmuch?! No!! Rachel that’s so lame!! lol Ugh!
But yes, I would love to know any of your favourite spots, we’ll be staying in the area for an over night and then driving up into Missoula, Montana. If you have any suggestions I would love them. =)
Oh my goodness I’m so jealous Kyla. I love love love Seattle. Have you ever been before? I visited last year for the first time since one of my best friends moved there. {you can read my post here; http://lizfranco.com/2009/08/the-emerald-city/}
Def try to make it into whats known as a Cupping at Stumptown coffee. Think wine tasting, but with coffee. It’s amazing.
.-= Liz´s last blog ..Love is… =-.
Coffee tastings? You know about all of the best things. Thank you so much for the link to your Seattle post! I’ve driven through when I was really young, but I haven’t been there to explore as an adult. I think it’s going to be all kinds of awesome =)
Aww, no Portland? If you’re in Seattle over a weekend, I’d come up to meet you :) It’s an easy day trip for me.
Hillary from 2 LL’s gave me an AWESOME list for Vancouver when B and I went up there a year or so ago. I’ll find her email and forward it to you. Pike’s Market in Seattle is neat, and I agree the underground tour is cool. DO NOT go to Experience the Music Project. Boring and a total waste of money.
Oh I know! Portland is one of those cities that I’ve always wanted to see too, I’m going to get there some time, I swear! We get into Seattle on a Sunday night and our full day is a Monday so that might not work with you, but if it did I would love to meet you =)
That’s so exciting, good for you! But even more exciting for me because I suspect you’ll be going through Kamloops on the way from Calgary to Vancouver (we’re at the over halfway point) and if so you and Mister MUST stop for chatty and gelato or wine. At least I hope so. Lets make it happen. P. S. Going to send you an email of my top pics for the Pacific Northwest as it would be way too large to fit into a comment.
Yes! I touched base with Amber the other day too and we are going to make a point of having lunch in Kamloops so we can say hi to you guys- we’ll be through on May 27th if you’re around. Let me know!
I’d be a bit more excited if this list included “San Francisco” but I suppose this will do. As far as Seattle goes, my suggestions: dinner at the Noodle Ranch (I know, sounds like a different sort of establishment, but best Thai food EVER), dance the night away at Chop Suey, shop at Pike Place & find someone to drive you by Kurt Cobain’s house. Not only do you get a rush of Nirvana nostalgia, but you get to snap pics of the most ADORABLE houses. Seattle is plain amazing.
The Noodle Ranch? That’s just wild enough to totally peak my interest! lol Thank you so much for the tips- and I know, it’s definitely not the same as if I was coming through your neighbourhood, but you would be in Vegas anyway ;)
I was just in Seattle about a month ago and it was awesome! I recommend you guys check out Pike Place Market – great vendors selling all kinds of neat things, plus fresh foods and produce!
The Space Needle is cool for a 1st time visitor, but it’s $18/person to go up and walk around.
Oh, and they have this Underground Tour in Seattle – you get to walk around underground (obviously) with a tour guide and they tell you all about Seattle’s history! It’s sooo cool!
.-= Kate´s last blog ..wise words: =-.
Yes!! The Underground Tour. Very, very, very cool!
.-= Emma´s last blog ..Geography is Destiny =-.
An underground tour?? No way! I’ve heard about those but had no idea there was one in Seattle, Kate this is awesome- thank you! Perfectly up my alley! =D
the vancouver flea market is pretty good. it’s only on weekends and costs like a $1 to get in. they have tons of stolen CD’s so you can find really good stuff. The Foundation on main has lots of good veggie foods and an awesome decor.
you should go to Roslyn, Washington! it’s near seattle, and where Northern Exposure was filmed. It’s been on my to do list for the past couple of years…
.-= april´s last blog ..bedrooms and backstreets =-.
Thanks April- we won’t be in Vancouver on the weekend (*shakes fists at the sky*) but I’ve never heard of The Foundation…. but from what I know of Vancouver, if it’s on Main it has to be pretty wonderful. Thank you so much!
Ahhhhh!! I’m so jealous!! I love road trips, and I particularly love the Pacific Northwest of the U.S.
I haven’t been to Seattle in years, and although I spent nearly a week there, I don’t really remember any of the great restaurants we visited. I would recommend heading up to the U. of Wash. area—lots of neat bars, cafes, art galleries, etc., surrounding the campus.
Cannot WAIT to hear where all you two go!
.-= Hannah´s last blog ..Why not? =-.
I’m so excited to finally be off exploring it, I’ve driven from Seattle to San Diego once but it was when I was a lot younger and I didn’t have much of a say in the stops along the way. I think that this will be an amazing way to get a better idea of what these places are actually like. I’ll definitely look into the U of Wash. area- thank you for the heads up, you’re all kinds of wonderful!
I think you might like Commercial Dr and Main St strips, they’re both fairly unique, have tons of organic and hipster stores. Granville Island is definitely a must. And dinner out with me in my neighborhood ;)
.-= Margarita´s last blog ..Tragedy en paillote =-.
I’m a huge fan of Commercial and Main- and I think I have some leads on great spots to check out too =) We’re only in town for 24 hours but I would love to say hello and give you a hug in person, let’s work something out!
Wow, that sounds amazing. I’d really love to take a road trip sometime. For me, most of my vacation days are saved up to go to Europe to see my family – so we haven’t really had much time to take a road trip yet. I hope to be able to squeeze it in some day.
Maybe, when you get back and tell us all about how fantastic your road trip was, that will be motivation enough to finally do it ;)
.-= san´s last blog ..Things you wouldn’t know: Long division does not equal long division =-.
lol Okay, San it’s a deal! I solemnly pledge to rave about it until you have no choice but to hit the road. ;)
But I definitely hear you about vacation days, with Mister’s American family living in Florida whenever we have time left over we head south. This will be our first vacation in five years where we haven’t met up with family at some point!
I’ve been wanting to do a road trip for ages. I’m sure yours will be lovely! Is there a particular type of food or anything you might like to eat while in Calgary? I can recommend away for things to do while you’re here, but if you don’t like the type of food I’m suggesting, it won’t help at all :)
You’ll probably want to check out 17th Ave, and Stephen Ave. I can recommend my favorite cupcake bakery!
Feel free to email me, I’ll think of places that are worth a visit, and I’ll compile a little list for you!
.-= Angela´s last blog ..A Vacation By The Numbers… =-.
A cupcake bakery? I’m there! As for the type of food I’m not too picky, we’re just looking for some local favourites- Mexican, French, Ethiopian, burger places, just any ‘can’t miss’ places you love =)
How exciting! We are doing the same thing in June – Calgary out to the Island and back – with our almost one-year-old daughter and I can’t wait!
What sort of restaurants are you looking for? Fine dining or small holes in the wall?
I love that we’re planning parallel trips, that’s too funny! I’m definitely looking for funky little holes in the wall, not fine dining =)
I LOVE road trips! One of these days we plan on getting out to Winnipeg as well.
Seattle: Pike Place Market of course. There is a little cafe at the back of the market overlooking the sound (might be called Soundview Cafe) that has great breakfasts! For a nice dinner, we love The Brooklyn. They have fantastic steaks and a cool raw bar at the front.
Vancouver: I could go on and on about my favourites but here are just a few. Cafe Luxy on Davie for pasta. Falafel Maison on Robson or Falafel House on Granville for schwarma and falafel. The Naam in Kits or The Foundation on Main for vegetarian. Kadoya on Davie for innovative sushi. Stellas on Commerical for tapas and a great Belgian beer selection. Kalamata on West Broadway for Greek food (their hummous has a wicked garlic kick). Veras Burger Shack for hamburgers.
Calgary: Thai Sa-On on 10th Ave SW for Thai food. Blue House Cafe at 19th St NW & Northmount Dr for Latin food and great seafood. Farm on 17th Ave SW for great cheese & meat selections. Schwarma Knight on 14th St SW for great chicken schwarma sandwiches. Hop in Brew pub on 12th Ave SW for a laid-back pub atmosphere.
Enjoy!
As Courtney’s former Vancouver roommate I’m going to second her suggestions and add a few more of my own!
Check out India Gate on Robson for the world’s best butter chicken and other Indian delights (www.indiagatefood.com/)… Poncho’s restaurant on Denman for awesome margaritas and amazing Mexican food (www.ponchosmexican.com/)… Cupcakes (www.cupcakesonline.com/) is just down the street from there, too!
You MUST have gelato while in Vancouver; my personal favourite is Dolce Amore on Commercial (www.gelateriadolceamore.com/). Cafe Deux Soleils makes a mean vegetarian breakfast(www.cafedeuxsoleils.com/) – also on Commercial.
Calhoun’s is a 24-hour coffeehouse and restaurant with amazing atmosphere – it’s on W. Broadway (www.calhouns.bc.ca/). Lastly, do not miss the chance for a delicious cinnamon bun or chocolate babka from Solly’s, a Jewish Bakery also on W. Broadway (sollysbagelry.com/).
Oh, and for a most memorable experience, visit The Lion’s Den (www.lionsdencafe.oxyfx.com/) which is in Courtney’s old stomping grounds :)
Do me a favour and be sure to sneak in some sangria on the beach, and watch the sun set :)
.-= Emma´s last blog ..Geography is Destiny =-.
Emma, these suggestions are amazing, thank you so much! I’ve walked Commercial and Main a lot when I’m there but I always feel like there must be amazing local haunts that I’m just managing to slip past. This gives me such amazing options- thank you!
Oh my goodness, these suggestions are amazing, thank you!!
I’m happy to already be a Cafe Deux Soleil convert, but I’m going to print these out so I can make sure to hit them all. You’re wonderful!
When you are in Vancouver, you’ll want to check out the Naam, a really wonderful vegetarian restaurant in Kitsilano.
Ah! I love the Naam, done & done! =)
i agree with this one!
.-= april´s last blog ..bedrooms and backstreets =-.
I’m so excited for you! I’d like for Husband and I to take a roadtrip for our 5-year anniversary (which is a little over three years away, but still). Roadtripping excites me!
.-= Megan´s last blog ..Getting to Know SV: School Pt. II =-.
We were initially trying to take a big road trip for our honeymoon, actually! And Mister’s parents want to take a road trip to all the MLB parks when they have a summer off- I love the idea of it, it’s just such an old fashioned thing to do. I can’t wait to hear about your 5-year road trip, that will be amazing!
I would love to visit all of those places. I live in Atlanta, so visiting cool cities is kind of limited on a road trip and I HATE the car. I hate being in the car for the 2 minutes it takes me to drive to things around my neighborhood. I become a monster on long trips and I just don’t know if I could last on an actual road trip. I can’t wait to hear more about yours!
.-= Windsor Grace´s last blog ..We have a winner!! =-.
Oh no! That happened to me last fall after one too many trips down south, I snapped mid-road trip and lost my mind. You can read about it here, just don’t judge ;)
I am so excited for you to take this trip! Roadtrips are much more my speed than flying and hurrying. I love being on my own schedule, doing what I want to do when I want to do it. You are going to have a fabulous time and I have no doubts will find the neatest places along the journey.
“I love being on my own schedule, doing what I want to do when I want to do it.”
It’s so funny that as adults this would be something we struggle to find, isn’t it? But you’re right, that’s exactly what I’m looking forward to =)
How exciting! I can’t wait to hear all about it! I’m sure you’ll have a lovely time. I haven’t been to any of those places, which probably makes me a bad American Citizen and even worse “world traveler,” but I know my mom has been to Calgary for work. I’ll ask her in case she has any suggestions :) I know it’s still kind of far away, but I can’t wait to hear all about it! xoxo
.-= Nora´s last blog ..Free Hug Friday =-.
It’s hard to get out to places and really explore them, traveling isn’t at all time or cost effective, but it’s so much fun!
And as for being a bad citizen, please. I rank right up there. I’ve never been to anywhere in Eastern Canada, not even Toronto! I’m so ashamed, I have no idea how it happened. I’m going to fix it next year lol
How very exciting. I love the thought of travelling/road trip over a birthday!
.-= L.C.T.´s last blog ..Sunshine and Sparkle =-.
It was definitely happenstance but I’m really looking forward to it, the idea of being on an adventure on my birthday suits me perfectly.
Oh my gosh. I LOVE Vancouver! I’m so incredibly jealous! We went whale watching while we were there (if you’re into that sort of thing) and walked through a lot of gorgeous parks. I’m sure you’ll have tons of fun!
.-= Taylor´s last blog ..Exhausted =-.
Vancity is one of my favourite places in the world, it’s the reason I’m getting cherry blossoms as my next tattoo! I’ve never been whale watching though, I might have to look into that… I never would have thought of that, thank you!
Ohhh -you are going to have such a FAB time! It’s been SO long since I’ve been to ANY of those places! Enjoy the mountains!! Jealous jealous jealous!! (but oh so happy for you hehe!)
.-= Lex @ sweettoothlex´s last blog ..Sneak peek of our new house! =-.
I haven’t driven through the mountains since I was a little kid, I’m really excited to see them… and to be able to drive it too! That’ll be a very different experience lol
I went to Vancouver a long time ago and remember going to these really pretty botanical gardens. I can’t remember the name off hand, but if you’re into that sort of thing I would recommend checking them out. They were so beautiful.
.-= Barbara´s last blog ..WTF Friday-Stupid As Seen on TV Products =-.
Oh! I think you might mean at UBC? They have a beautiful Japanese garden at least =) I will do some research, thanks!
I’m pretty sure that’s the place.
.-= Barbara´s last blog ..WTF Friday-Stupid As Seen on TV Products =-.
There’s Van Dusen gardens on Granville Street which are the main “botanical gardens”, but the Nitobe Gardens at UBC are the Japanese ones that are AMAZING! There’s also the Dr Sun Yat Sen Chinese gardens in Chinatown that are gorgeous.
.-= Caz´s last blog ..Mess Around =-.
Oh I’ve never been to Chinatown, Caz that’s brilliant! Thank you! I think that the Nitobe Gardens were where I saw my first ever koi fish =)
I have never been on a real road trip (well, unless I count the trip from Seattle to Idaho several summers ago). Collin and I want to do an East Coast road trip (if time permits, so we shall see).
As for Seattle: Go to Broadway. It’s a street with lots of little shops and cafes. Very unique and very alternative.
.-= Stefanie´s last blog ..Five Years! =-.
Thanks for the tip! We’ll definitely check Broadway out =)
We’re also planning an east coast road trip, among others! I think we have about ten we want to take when all is said and done, what better time to start than now?
I love road trips – I’ve been on so many and each one has been special in their own way :) I hope you have an amazing time – a couple of years back I was planning to travel to Canada on my own to take in the sights, but I just never found the time. Hopefully soon!
.-= Lizzie´s last blog ..Saturday is for doing nothing =-.
YAY for road trips! I’m so excited for you that you finally get to do what you’ve been wanting for so long now. It is one of the most fun and relaxing things to do, and yours sounds lovely! I am a wee bit jealous, though. Mainly because I want to do the same, but also? You’re not coming to NC and that makes me sad! Haha, but alas, I can’t wait to see the great photos and videos you post after your journey!
Aw, it would be so much fun to visit you and have you show me the town! But there will be lots of photos and videos when we come back, I’m already scheming =)