Visiting Boise in the winter months offers a plethora of activities to choose from. Whether you are wanting to brave the frigid slopes of one of the nearby ski resorts or would rather stay warm in a gorgeous natural hot spring, Boise offers something for everyone.
Bogus Basin
Just a 45-minute drive from downtown Boise, Bogus Basin offers easy access to countless winter activities. The main attraction is the ski hill which offers 2,600 acres of terrain, 80 runs, and 10 lifts. If flying down a mountain is a little extreme for your taste, they also offer cross-country skiing, winter tubing, and snowshoeing. Bogus Basin is also home to Idaho’s only mountain coaster, where riders can fly down 4,330 feet weaving in and out of trees and experience the mountain like never before.
Winter Garden aGlow at the Idaho Botanical Garden
If you’re visiting during the month of December, the Winter Garden aGlow at the Idaho Botanical Garden is a can’t-miss event for the whole family. Every night during December that Idaho Botanical Garden lights up with over 550,000 lights across its 14 acres of land. Along with the amazing visual experience, there are food trucks, live music, and fun events and activities for the kids. Winter Garden aGlow is one of the botanical garden’s biggest fundraisers of the year, so not only will you receive a memorable experience, but you will also be helping the garden provide a wonderful service to the local community.
Sun Valley
Sun Valley is an extremely popular ski-resort town about 3 hours northeast of Boise that offers skiing, fine dining, and an exciting nightlife. Bald Mountain is what brings most winter tourists up to the town. If you enjoy beautiful views, you’ll find plenty in Sun Valley, but the one you can’t miss is at the Seattle Ridge Day Lodge located at the top of Bald Mountain. At 8,800 feet you can see forever, and if you time it right you can see the mountains turn from white to a combination of a breathtaking pink and blue at sunset, just make sure you call ahead because you do need a reservation.
Along with the mountain, Sun Valley has a laundry list of other winter activities such as ice skating, sleigh rides, and ice sculptures. Once you have gotten your fair share of outdoor time, you’ll need to warm up inside with a hearty meal and a drink of your choice. There’s plenty of options to choose from, but some of our favorites include Sawtooth Brewery, Lefty’s Bar & Grill, and The Roundhouse.
Hot Springs
It’s difficult to find yourself anywhere in Idaho without being close to a hot spring. There are dozens of springs within a couple of hours of Boise, here’s a great guide that lists most of the ones available to the public.
If you’re looking for a hot spring experience that has a resort feel to it with built-out pools and some amenities such as bathrooms, food and drink, and on-site parking, we’d recommend Goldfork Hot Springs near McCall or The Springs at Idaho City. Both locations are easy to access while still getting all the benefits of a natural hot spring.
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous and want to experience a more “natural” hot spring experience you can’t go wrong with Kirkham Hot Springs or Trail Creek Hot Springs. Both require a small but relatively steep hike down to the pools, but the scenery and experience is well worth it if you can make the trek.
McCall
Another lovely mountain town about 2 ½ hours north of Boise is McCall. With many of the same characteristics as Sun Valley, McCall offers all the typical mountain activities in a beautiful city built right next to Payette Lake.
Brundage Mountain & Tamarack Resort are both within a short drive from McCall and have some of the best ski terrains in the Northwest.
In late January to early February McCall hosts their annual Winter Carnival which is a favorite among locals and tourists. One of the main attractions is the ice sculpture contest, where amateurs and professionals compete for $1,000+ prizes for the best sculpture. There are upwards of 100 sculptures each year so just walking through town is an event in and of itself.
The supporting events are just as fun, with activities such as a dog sled challenge, chef collaborative dinner, mardi gras parade, and snowshoe golf.
Looking for more things to do while you are in Boise? Check out our other guides here.
The fall months are some of the best times to visit Boise. Tree’s all around the city start to change, turning the city from a giant green patch to a kaleidoscope of red, pink, yellow, and orange. The weather is also quite pleasant in the fall months, nestled right between the 100 degree days of summer and the freezing, windy days of winter. Along with the city’s natural beauty, there are a number of exciting events going on during these months that are sure to please.
Spirit of Boise – Hot Air Balloon Festival
Probably the most popular fall event, as well as one of the most picturesque, is the Spirit of Boise hot air balloon festival. It is a 5-day event that usually takes place the first week of September. They do a wonderful job offering different types of events for the whole family.
It typically starts with a kid’s day where kids can take a “tethered ride” where they can experience a hot air balloon ride while still being roped to the ground, giving parents slightly less anxiety about watching their child float away. Later in the week, they have multiple flights where 20+ balloons take to the skies and float over the city and neighboring areas. On Friday night they have the Nightglow Spectacular, where they inflate all the balloons after dark and put on a light show along with music, drinks, and other fun events.
Treefort Music Festival
If music is more your thing, the Treefort Music Festival is a great opportunity to see not only great artists from Boise and the Inland Northwest, but the festival attracts big names from across the country as well. Previous years have featured artists such as Run The Jewels, Vince Staples, and Lizzo. If none of those appeals to you, there are over 100 shows every year, so you’re bound to find something that fits your taste. It’s typically a five-day event in the heart of downtown that features beer gardens, comedy shows, and plenty of food trucks to explore.
Boise Farmers Market
Every Saturday local farmers, artists, business owners, and chefs set up downtown for the Boise Farmers Market. Located in the heart of downtown, the farmers market is a great place to start your Saturday even if you don’t plan on purchasing anything. You will get the chance to see unique works of art by local artists, local and international cuisine, and tons of options for organic vegetables, beef, and fish.
Boise State Football Games
Even though Boise isn’t home to a major sports team, they still have one of the most exciting teams in college football. The Boise State Broncos rose to prominence in the early 2000s and have made it to a bowl game every year since 1999. The team is fun to watch and the environment is electric for a sports fan. Along with the great food and company at the tailgate, the stadium includes the famous “smurf turf” which was the first non-green playing field in college football history.
Boise Restaurant Week
If you consider yourself a “foodie”, or just enjoy a great meal in a fun environment, you can’t miss the Dine Out Downtown – Boise Restaurant Week. Dozens of restaurants participate in this event which includes special menus, deals on food and drinks, and fun events put on by each restaurant. Usually, this is held around the last week of October or the first of November. If you’re wanting to double down on your Boise food experience, there is also the Boise Grilled Cheese and Beer Festival held right before restaurant week.
Harvest Festivals
Few things get people more excited about fall than harvest festivals, and the Boise area has plenty of them. With pumpkin patches, corn mazes, hayrides, along with numerous other activities there is fun for the whole family at any of these festivals. There are numerous festivals throughout the fall, including in Eagle, Garden City, Caldwell, Emmett, and Kuna.
Boo at the Zoo
If you’re visiting around Halloween the Boise Zoo hosts an annual Boo at the Zoo event for children and families. The event usually consists of costume contests, prize giveaways, trick or treating, face painting, and games for all ages.
If you’re in town earlier in the month you can still experience the Zoo with a Halloween twist. Every weekend in October they have Spooktacular Evenings from 6-9 PM. They call it a “merry-not-scary” event that is suitable for all ages. The Zoo will be lit up with Halloween displays and will also have activities and special entertainment every night.
Visiting Boise during a different time of the year or want to check out more of what the city has to offer, check out our other recommendations here.
Artificial intelligence has been making our lives easier in many ways and across numerous sectors. When you get the best answer for your Google search, that’s AI. When Netflix picks just the right next show for you, it’s AI again. The technology has also been used to recognize and fight Covid-19.
AI’s potential is enormous, and we’re just starting to scratch the surface of all the possible uses. The travel industry has joined the trend, and new AI uses in travel emerge every day. Here’s how AI is changing the way we travel.
Robot Concierge
Not only can AI-powered software help customers online, but it can also assist them face-to-face. It is now possible to find robot concierges at the front desks of some hotels. They can answer any tourist questions and provide other information.
One such example is Connie, a robot experiment at the Hilton hotels. Connie stands at the front desk and greets all the customers politely. It can provide information about the best restaurants nearby, for example, and even turn its body around to point you in the right direction. Connie’s eyes are expressive, i.e., they change colors to express understanding and emotion.
So while employees handle more complex requests, Connie can deal with all the usual questions.
Hotel AI Assistants
Hotels and similar businesses have even more uses for this powerful technology. Namely, there are now AI personal assistants, which can make your stay even more enjoyable and comfortable. You can get these in the form of an app and always have them handy.
These AI assistants can answer any questions, but they can also turn up the heating in your room before you arrive, for example. They may also turn the lights on and off or dim them. You can either give your assistant a voice command or a text-based one. It will use the power of the Internet of Things (IoT) to “communicate” with the appliances in your room.
Customer Service Bots
Customer service is incredibly important in the travel industry, and the emergence of AI-powered chatbots is taking it to the next level. These bots can help provide online assistance to customers with little to no help from a live rep.
They can answer any questions and provide information in an instant. If a customer is looking for recommendations, chatbots can provide them as well as, if not better than, any live representative. They can help people complete bookings in no time.
Hotels and other businesses have started implementing them on their websites and social media, and people seem to love the self-service option they provide. Plus, they are available around the clock, so people can interact with them at any time.
Data Processing
The travel industry benefits majorly from the data processing and analytics abilities of AI technology. Various AI-powered tools allow businesses to process huge amounts of data in minutes and draw meaningful insights and conclusions.
Many businesses in the travel and tourism industry use these tools to understand their customers and their needs better. Before, they had to rely on their intuition, but now, they can simply take a look at the relevant data points. This way, they can make adjustments so as to cater to their customers better.
Both businesses and customers benefit from this type of smart analytics as customers get what they want and businesses thrive as a consequence.
Travel Recommendations
AI-based recommendations are everywhere these days. We’ve already mentioned Netflix, but another great example is any online shopping experience. The algorithm will learn what you like quickly and be able to recommend the best pieces for you.
In the travel industry, many booking platforms utilize this ability and deploy AI to help customers make an ideal pick. The algorithm analyzes your behavior on the site, your searches and preferences, and recommends ideal places to visit and things to do at your destination, for example.
Some websites even offer personalized travel recommendations, where they ask you a series of questions about your preferences (i.e., the food you like, the weather you prefer, etc.) and let the software provide the best choices for you.
Mobility as a Service
Mobility as a Service (MaaS) has been nicknamed the Netflix of transportation. In essence, it represents an ecosystem of transportation options that are at a commuter’s disposal. MaaS has a huge potential in the travel industry as it can help travelers move around with ease using the best possible modes of transport. One example of MaaS is the Helsinki-based app called Whim.
A tourist can install the app which will lead them door to door by pointing out the best (or preferred) transportation options, including anything from public transport to bicycles. The AI mechanism behind it helps integrate all the different transport networks in a functional, holistic system.
Facial Recognition as a Boarding Pass
One day, not too far from now, we’ll probably be able to travel without having to carry passports and other documents with us. Thanks to AI, biometric authentication has surpassed our expectations of what’s possible, and we can now use facial recognition tools to identify passengers without interaction with airport employees.
Finnish airline operator Finavia is already testing this kind of technology in hopes to simplify and shorten the complicated passenger journey at the airport.
Cheap Flight Prediction
Flight prices can fluctuate wildly, and it’s difficult to predict their affordability in the near future. However, AI’s power of accurate prediction is the basis for apps such as Hopper, which allow you to save money on travel by hunting down the cheapest flights, as well as hotels and other modes of transport.
Apps such as these allow travelers to see the world on a budget and never spend a dime more than necessary. Researching this kind of information would take us a lot of time and effort, and now, we can have it at a tap.
As you can see, AI is making travel cheaper, more convenient, and more personalized for everyone. It’s making it easier to book a trip, get wherever you want to go and find exactly what you’re looking for.
You don’t need to get a new kitchen or remodel the bathroom to increase your home value. There are simple and inexpensive ways to give your property a facelift, and you can even do many of them yourself.
If it’s a rental property and you’re away, your collection agent can take care of the refurbishments, and you can pay them over time from the rent. What’s more, a property management company can help you decide on the best home improvement projects to boost your property value.
A little goes a long way, so here are some ideas on how to improve the appeal and price of your property.
Freshen Up the Wall Paint
One of the easiest ways to increase your property value is to roll up your sleeves and touch up the interior with a fresh coat of paint. If the walls have smudges, the color is outdated, or they simply haven’t been painted in a while, they might put off any potential buyers or tenants instantly.
Since walls are a blank canvas against which people envision their future furnishings, it’s best to go for a neutral color.
Pro tip: A study has found that houses with black, smokey, or charcoal front doors sell for $6,271 more than others on average. Repainting the door is inexpensive and simple, and it can have a massive impact on the overall appeal.
Upgrade Your Bathroom
The most effective home improvement projects that can skyrocket the price are bathroom and kitchen remodels. However, you don’t have to remodel the entire bathroom to boost your property value. Making a few changes in decor can do magic.
You can update your fixtures for cheap and get a major glow-up. For starters, if there are any leaky faucets or anything that doesn’t work properly, replace it. Add more storage space if possible. Then, you can also improve on the overall aesthetics by getting a new vanity, changing its countertop, or painting it over.
You’d be impressed at the difference a $15 dollar shower curtain can do.
Boost Your Curb Appeal
There’s one rule real estate agents agree on — if you can do only one thing to improve your home’s marketability, work on your curb appeal. It’s the first thing buyers see, and first impressions can color the entire experience.
Depending on your budget, you don’t even have to do much. Prune any shrubbery, mow your lawn, paint your mailbox, add some decor to your front door, and make sure the windows are squeaky clean.
You may also add a stone veneer and change the garage door or even plant more greenery to make the house look homier. Most of these changes are extremely cost-effective with a great ROI.
Update Fixtures
One of the most effective and inexpensive updates that is often overlooked is changing the fixtures around the house. For example, outlet covers and switch plates often won’t even cross your mind, but you can change them for a few dollars apiece and make them look much more expensive.
You can also replace your light fixtures and achieve a major effect on the overall appeal. Tacky old chandeliers can be a complete eyesore, and you can switch them for elegant, energy-efficient, and easy-to-install ceiling lights, which will brighten up the space.
You may also add new blinds, change old doorknobs, get better-looking curtain rods.
Restore the Floors
Installing new flooring can be expensive and time-consuming, but you can refresh your floors in other ways. If your house is old and carpeted, chances are you have a hardwood floor beneath them. Hardwood is much more attractive than old and shaggy carpets, so you might as well reveal it.
You can restore the glow to your hardwood floors by sanding and refinishing them. It’s a bit of work, but it’s much cheaper than paying for the new wood and labor.
Hardwood is the best flooring option for adding resale value. It can have an ROI of 70 to 80%.
Deep Clean
The biggest turn-off for potential buyers is bad odors. You may have noticed that every house that is lived in has a distinctive smell. Unfortunately, different people find different smells unpleasant, so it’s best to deep clean your house before you show it to any potential buyers.
People also hate to see signs of neglect in bathrooms and kitchens, so give these areas some extra love while cleaning. You may want to hire professional services because they know exactly what to look out for and how to take care of it.
Deep cleaning helps with another home buyer turn-off, i.e., clutter. Make sure everything is tidy and there are no bad smells.
Improve Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency has become a major concern for home buyers, and a drafty home simply won’t do. You can improve the overall energy efficiency of the house by sealing any cracks around doors and windows or adding some insulation to your attic.
Ceiling fans are another green addition to a home that buyers will appreciate. You may also help conserve water by installing low-flow fixtures in the bathroom and save energy by installing LEDs.
Various studies have found that energy efficiency can both make your property more desirable and increase its value on the market.
Paint the Kitchen Cabinets
You can spruce up your kitchen by simply repainting your cabinets. You don’t have to install new ones if the old ones are functional, but you can easily make them look fresh and new by painting them over. You can always go for white paint since it will make the kitchen look spacious, clean, and pleasant to be in.
Depending on the state they’re in, you may want to scuff them with sandpaper first and add a finish to make them look as good as new.
As you can see, increasing your home value doesn’t have to be expensive and difficult. There are a ton of small improvements with a huge ROI you can practically DIY.
Bellingham has a number of distinct areas and districts, each with their own charm and unique culture. Fairhaven is in the South of Bellingham, nestled next to Chuckanut Drive and Bellingham Bay. If you are looking for a day of leisurely activities and great food, Fairhaven is the perfect stop for you.
Full of book stores, excellent food, and family-friendly activities, Fairhaven is a superb summer stop. Locals and tourists alike spend hot summer afternoons strolling the streets of Fairhaven with ice cream cones, iced coffees, and their dogs!
Best Eats in Fairhaven
Deciding where to eat in Fairhaven might be your most difficult choice of the day. With tons of great, local, family-owned options, it can be hard to decide where to head. There are dozens of restaurants in just a few block areas, so we have picked out our favorites for you to try.
Fat Pie Pizza is located on the corner of Harris Ave and 11th street, right in the heart of Fairhaven. Known for their deep-dish pizza, Fat Pie Pizza is definitely a popular spot. It may look like a small place from ground level with only a few outside tables and a handful of tables inside. However, Fat Pie Pizza has a rooftop dining area with a fantastic view of the Bay. Head into Fat Pie for great pizza, appetizers, and drinks with a view!
Jalapenos
Just two doors down Harris Ave from Fat Pie Pizza is Jalapenos Mexican restaurant. This is a popular sport in the area for its margaritas and great food. They have a fun outdoor seating area on an overhanging deck for those over 21 and a traditional Mexican-American menu that is sure to please everyone. Located on the outward-facing side of the main square, Jalapenos is centrally located and an excellent stop for big appetites.
Avenue Bread
Avenue Bread is a neighborhood café and bakery that serves sandwiches, salads, and homemade bread from 11th street overlooking Bellingham Bay. There are a few Avenue Bread locations throughout Bellingham, but the Fairhaven location serves Breakfast sandwiches, lunch sandwiches, salads, and a large selection of fresh, homemade bread. They use fresh and locate ingredients and have excellent Gluten-Free bread. The average price of a full-size sandwich here is $10-$15, and you’ll have to take home at least a few loaves of their bread.
The Black Cat
The Black Cat is located in East Fairhaven and is a sophisticated tavern with a classic bistro menu and excellent cocktails. This charming spot is located on the 3rd floor of the Sycamore Square Building. They feature starters such as steamed Manilla Clams, Dungeness Crab Cakes, and Cauliflower totes that average $10. Their entrees offer a wide selection of seafood, pasta, and red meat, ranging from $15- $40. The Black Cat also has a wide range of salads, soups, and desserts.
They offer a weekly specialty cocktails menu as well as classic cocktails. On their specialty menu, you can find drinks tailored to the season. They feature drinks such as the Cat Scratch Lemonade in early summer, which has Jalapeno Lime Vodka, Basil, Simple Syrup, and Sierra Mist for $9. For hot summer days, check out the Pineapple Ginger Mojito with rum, ginger liqueur, pineapple, lime, mint, and soda. They are always busy and are a great place for those 21+.
Desserts
Fairhaven has such a wide array of dessert options that you might have to skip dinner altogether and just eat ice cream. Make sure to save room wherever you decide to have lunch because you are surely going to watch to check out some of these sweet eats.
Colophon Café
Starting at the Colophon Café, you must stop by their dessert case. While they have excellent food options, their desserts are to die for. They are known for their cakes. With towering carrots cake, cheesecake, peanut butter pie, and more, it might be hard to choose just one. Their Chocolate Chunk Cake served ala mode is a must-try. Grab a coffee with your cake and head out into the courtyard to enjoy it in the sun!
Acme Valley Ice Cream
Located right next to Fat Pie Pizza, Acme Valley Ice Cream is a fan favorite. They have an array of ice cream flavors made in Acme, Washington, as well as a number of baked goods. This tiny store is directly on the corner of 11th and Harris Ave, one door up from Fat Pie Pizza. Most people pop out the doors of Fat Pie Pizza after dinner and pop in Acme Valley Ice cream doors for an after-dinner treat.
Sweet Bellingham
Sweet Bellingham is located right next door to Jalapenos. This Sweetshop has cakes, caramel apples, and cupcakes! They have something for everyone and lots of fun, colorful options to choose from. They are located within walking distance to nearly everything in Fairhaven and are a fun stop for kids!
Sirena Gelato
The Sirena Gelato Café offers artisanal gelato and Sorbet in many different flavors. If you are a fan of gelato over traditional ice cream, head over the Sireana’s and choose from their huge stock of different flavors. They also have cookies and coffee, so if you want a gelato espresso, they have you covered.
If you are looking for a few activities to do in Fairhaven, there is plenty of family-friendly stops! Bellingham is home to tons of entertainment and activities, and Fairhaven is no different. Whether you need something to pass the time between dessert stops or are looking for an activity for kids, Fairhaven has it all.
Creativitea
Creativitea is a super unique stop that is fun for all ages! This is a pottery painting shop that doubles as a mini café. When you head into Creativitea, you will be able to pick out the pottery you would like to paint. From mugs and plates to animals, birdhouses, and more, there is a ton of different options to choose from. Once you have picked out your pottery, you pay for the ceramics and then can choose a table. There is endless paint options, brushes, and other tools to decorate your creation!
Best Activities in Fairhaven
If you get hungry while you are crafting away, they offer tea-time foods. Small appetizers, sandwiches, pastries, and of course, tea! Once you have finished up painting and your snack, you give your pottery to the front desk so that it can be put in the kiln to set. This process usually takes 2-5 days, so make sure you have time to stop back in to pick everything up.
Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema
The Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema is one of the most fun activities in the area. From June to late August, the Fairhaven Village Green hosts outdoor movies. Everyone is able to bring a blanket and find a spot on the grass to watch a film. These are usually classic family favorites mixed in with a few new releases. Each summer, there are normally movies on Friday and Saturday nights starting when it gets dark enough to see the projector. There is often popcorn for sale, and you can bring your own snacks.
This is a cheap movie option that adds some excitement over just watching a movie at home. Many people get there considerably early to find a seat on the grass, so make sure to plan ahead to make sure you can get in. The Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema will be resuming in June of 2022 due to the ongoing pandemic, so make sure to check out their website for the dates!
Village Books
One could spend hours wandering around the floor of Village Books. Located on the main square on 11th street, Village books is a three-story book store. There is an excellent children’s area with a cozy reading corner, a young adult section, and games for younger children. The rest of the book story is floor-to-ceiling books with plenty of selection for everyone. Downstairs you can find hiking and travel guides while the upper two floors host all sorts of different genres and sections. If you need help finding a book or need a recommendation, just find a Village employee who always has great suggestions.
Eclipse Book Store
If you are looking for winding towers of books and piles of used stories to dig through, Eclipse Book Store is a must-stop! This used book store quite literally has piles of books on every available surface. You never know what you might find buried in some of these mounting piles. This two-story book store overlooks the Bay, and while you won’t find many new books here, you are sure to find exactly what you didn’t know you were looking for.
Fairhaven is full of fun activities, plenty of good eats, and a great place to walk around with the family this summer. During the hottest weekends and summer evenings, the sidewalks will be full of tourists and locals alike, taking in all of the great offerings of Fairhaven.
Fairhaven is just one district of Bellingham, so check back into the CleverNeighbor for more cool areas to check out in Bellingham.
Since the first truck load of squash was delivered in 1977 by Burr at the age of 17, Mosby Farms, planting for the future!
“What makes us different is the same for all farms, each family farm story is unique to its own. Washington State’s population has grown 13% over the last 10 years but we’ve lost almost 5% of our farmers. Our communities can’t afford to lose access to local food when it’s in season. When we lose farmers, we lose local food access, land and habitat stewardship, and the many other benefits farmers provide for their communities.”
Rosella and Burr Mosby
Rosella and her husband Burr are the owner of Mosby Farm, Both Sumner native’s, and of course supportive Seahawks fans. You might see them at the games!
Local Biz Hero
Rosella and Burr are what we like to call Local Biz Hero‘s, self-made entrepreneurs who bring true value to their community. High stands of professionalism and strong work ethics of local farmers like Rosella and Burr are the infrastructure of local farming. They take pride in nurturing the land that provides for them. Mosby Farms, Planting for the future.
Rosella is passionate about her involvement in agriculture advocacy through groups like My Fork Supports Farms, King-Pierce Farm Bureau, and the Farm Journal Foundation.
Sit Down With Rosella
We sat down with Rosella for a quick interview –
Why do you do what you do?
“I was self employed when Burr and I married and I liked my work. It wasn’t in my plan to work on the farm but in the end it was better for our family. When you have little ones, eating lunch together is great, because it’s likely dad won’t be home until dark. I attempted to continue my business and helping at the farm but it became too much. One day, the babysitter fell through so I took her to work with me in a stroller, I was on a ladder, working for myself with a phone in my neck placing a produce order for the farm asking myself, what am I doing? Over the years my work at the farm has evolved. I know in my heart this is where I belong.”
How did you get into this profession?
“Burr had a little produce stand and needed someone to run it, but I already had a job. Attempting to do both, channeling some of my creativity into the little produce stand I managed to increase sales quite a bit and he was hooked, it continued to grow until we chose to close it due to some county requirements that didn’t pencil out. There is always plenty to keep busy on the farm, Youth Crew, Pumpkin Patch, and consumer outreach needs. Zucchini grows a quarter of an inch per hour in the hot sun and it takes a team of people to get that zucchini to your dinner plate. Our work isn’t just about us, it’s about our crew, the land we steward and the community we feed.”
Perspective Check
What is the most significant event that ever happened to you?
“When I was 30, I was diagnosed as a type 1………….. Every day is a gift, you can choose to accept it and do something meaningful with it or let it pass you by. I want to choose to do something meaningful.“
Support Your Local Farmers!
If you could share one tip with the readers for choosing a farm, what would it be?
“I want everyone reading this to seek out their local farmer and just learn about them. Ask what their struggles are and ask what their community can do to help. We need to help farmers be viable for their future. Get to know your local farmer. “ Checkout Mosby Farms HERE and follow on Facebook HERE
For the past 40 years, Small Car Performance is Known Globally and here in our South Sound community. Michelle and Austin, since February this year, took ownership. The Small Car Performance team serves by “building an experience machine for those wanting to see the world.”
Small Car Performance
Austin says “What makes us different is that we have a very specific niche that is sought out globally. Not only that, but we are also the manufacturer for the new tech needed for our competitors to do business.”
Michelle is the President and CEO of Small Car Performance, a driven mother of 3 young children and wife, who handles the business like a Boss Lady! Austin, proud father and husband mentions, ” I admire how my wife can control a room and handle business. I am blessed to witness it. She is top notch, amazing and intelligent.”
Local Biz Hero
Michelle and Austin are what we like to call a Local Biz Hero, a self-made entrepreneur who brings true value to his community. High stands of professionalism and strong work ethics of small business owners, like Michelle and Austin, are the infrastructure of restoration economy.
Therefore, every dollar that they make goes back to supporting the local business ecosystem and the community. As Small Car Performance supports the charities local to the 414. They also employ many locals from our area.
VW Vans with Small Car Performance
We sat down with Austin for a quick interview –
Why do you do what you do?
“We owned vans for over 20 years as a couple. Our friends were the previous owners. Let’s just say we were in the right place at the right time.”
Are you Seahawks and Sounders fans?
“We are from Atlanta, GA but since moving here we have become fans and love supporting local sports.
Being the VP, Austin works directly with many people. We asked him what is the most significant situation that ever happened to you on the job?
“Deciding to purchase the business. We were looking for a while to buy into something. I love seeing people’s heads’ turn when telling them my wife runs the company as President and CEO. “
One tip when choosing a professional restoration for VW vans, what would it be?
“Make sure you ask many questions. Make sure you have transparency before making your decisions. “
Professional Restoration for VW Vans
When looking for a professional restoration for VW vans, the Small Car Performance team should be your first choice. For me, Small Car Performance is known Globally and makes a big impact here locally. Call the team at 253.473.2474 or visit www.smallcar.com – Seriously Great Experience Machines.
Summertime in Skagit County is almost perfect one could say. With mild, temperate weather reaching the mid 70’s or low 80’s, it is the perfect place for outdoor recreation and fun. The Skagit Valley is a farming community that is nestled between the Northern Cascades and the Puget Sound with many local berry stands, family-owned businesses, and small town charm. During the summer, many come to the Skagit Valley to get a taste of adventure through Kayaking, boating, fishing, rafting, biking, and more. Still, several other activities are just as exciting. From Wineries and live music to fresh fruit stands and farmers’ markets, Skagit County has an activity for everyone.
Skagit Speedway
The Skagit Speedway is a favorite pastime during the summer months. You can often hear the race tracks going from miles away, and the start of summer is always accompanied by the hum of the cars in the distance. The Skagit Speedway is usually up and running by early May and runs into September. While the schedule varies throughout the summer, there are traditionally races every Saturday with several Friday night or weekend-long events as well.
Adult tickets are 15 dollars for regular races, while a family pass for a family of 4 is available for $45. During special events such as the mid-season races, ticket prices may be higher. Some bleacher seats are available, but most general admission tickets are for the lawn area where families bring low sitting chairs or blankets to water the races on. The races are a great family event, but small children may find the experience too loud. If you do have small children, be sure to bring ear protection. You can find a complete list of the Skagit Speedway schedule here.
Farmers Markets
Anacortes
The city of Anacortes hosts a farmer’s Market year-round. During the summertime, this Market is held every Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm from May 1st to October 30th. The farmers market is located close to the marina at 611 R Ave Anacortes, Wa 98221 (the Corner of 7th street and R Avenue). There are over 50 vendors that attend the Anacortes Farmers market, and the offerings range from fresh produce to Jewelry, homemade pie, and locally raised beef. You could spend several hours wandering through all of the vendors, snacking on streetcar food, and buying local makings.
Mt. Vernon
The city of Mt. Vernon also hosts an excellent farmers market every summer from May 15th to October 9th. The Market occurs from 9 am to 2 pm on Saturdays in the Riverfront Plaza on Main St Between Gates and West Montgomery. While the Mt. Vernon farmers market has only been open for a few years, it has grown steadily and now offers a wide variety of local goodies. There are a few hot food stands such as Kona Ice of Skagit Valley, Ma & Pa Kettle Corn, Pancakes at the Market, and Sweet Bellingham.
After you have checked out the hot food stands, make sure to grab some local flowers and whatever fruits and veggies are in season before moving on to the local artisans and other sellers. The Mt. Vernon Farmers market happens right off of the Skagit River and is surrounded by other shops and restaurants that you can check out after you are finished at the farmers market.
Scenic Drive up Chuckanut
Chuckanut drive is famous among tourists and locals alike for its stunning views of the San Juan Islands. Just outside of Edison, you can drive up windy Chuckanut drive and stop at viewpoints along your way to Bellingham. Although the actual distance between Edison and Bellingham is not very far, you will want to leave enough time to stop and take pictures. On your way up, you can also take a left turn at the hairpin turn and head down to Taylor’s Shellfish for a sampling of Fresh Oysters before you continue on your way. Chuckanut Drive is known for its sunsets. Bring a camera and pick a viewpoint to watch the sunset behind the Islands. You can also often see the Olympics from Chuckanut drive, which adds up to quite the amazing summer sunset.
Summertime in Skagit County: U-pick Berries
Skagit Valley is a farming community. One of the world’s only growers of commercial Tulips and strong Strawberry yields, Brussel sprouts, wheat, and more, there is always a new crop to check out. When you head to the farmer’s markets, much of what you will be buying only had to travel a few miles down the road. During June and early July, strawberries are in season! There are roadside fruit stands everywhere selling flats of strawberries, but if you want to make a day out of it, pick your own!
Schuh Farms in Mt. Vernon offers u-pick strawberries while there are in season. You can go out into their fields and pick the ripest strawberries that you can find. Once you’re done you can head to the barns and find a homemade shortcake to go with your strawberries. Schuh farms also have pies made with their own berries and a coffee stand to get a strawberry milkshake. While you’re there, make sure to check out the animal barns. Schuh farms has a family of goats and a herd of chicks who love to be fed and given attention.
Bertelsen Winery
The Bertelsen Winery sits on the edge of Skagit County, just off of I5. While their wine is definitely reason enough to visit, their summer concert series is another exciting activity to fill your summer days. They have music every Friday night during the summertime, as well as a few additional headline concerts on Saturdays. If the weather is nice, the event will be held outside on the patio and lawn. A food truck is often parked in the parking lot, and plenty of wine to taste and choose from. Dance, listen to music, drink wine and eat good food at the Bertelsen Winery. You can find out more about their summer concert series here.
Beer Hopping
If wine isn’t your cup of tea, don’t worry, there are plenty of amazing breweries in Skagit County. Farm Strong Brewing offers a taproom, beer garden, and kitchen where all ages and dogs are welcome. If you are looking for beer and music, they have a concert every Tuesday night. Tickets are just $10, and they feature amazing bands from around the area. Check out their Facebook page to find out who the artist or band of the week is. Farmstrong also has Wednesday night Trivia. It is free to play, and there are prizes! If you are looking for beer and a good time, Farmstrong Brewing is a great place to check out.
Skagit County Fair– Summertime fun in Skagit County
The Skagit County fair is back for 2021! This hometown fair is home to a whole day worth of fun activities. There is a dog show, sheep, pigs, cows, rabbits, poultry, cavies, cats, 4H bars, indoor exhibits, a carnival, and an arena for the horse show. There is the main show stage and live entertainment as well. The Skagit County fair will be at the fairgrounds in Mt. Vernon Washington August 11th- August 14th. They have not released a full schedule or ticket information yet, but it is a confirmed event in the county, and there will be more information coming soon. The Skagit County Fair is highly attended by both locals and tourists and is fun for the whole family. There will be rides, an animals fair, food and more! Be sure to check back in to get tickets and plan your trip to the 2021 fair.
Eat at amazing restaurants
If you are looking for a summer smattering of local goodness, there are a few restaurants you have to check out. While you can check out a full guide of restaurants in the county on our website here, these are a few summertime must-stops.
Snow Goose Produce
The first is Snow Goose Produce. While it may not be a full-service restaurant, their massive ice cream cones more than makeup for it! With local flavors filled with fresh fruits and homemade cones, you can’t miss a stop at Snow Goose Produce. Located on Fir Island, Snow Goose is an essential stop in Skagit County. The line for ice cream often wraps around the outside of the building, but it is well worth the wait!
Rexville Grocery
Just down the road from Snow Goose Produce is the Rexville Grocery. The Rexville grocery is the perfect spot to head for lunch because of their made-to-order sandwiches. With fresh, local ingredients and homemade sourdough bread, it is the perfect place to head on a hot day. They offer other food as well but are best know for their sandwiches.
Skagit Flats Marathon
While most areas see the end of summer festivities with the start of the school year, summer events in Skagit County go long into September. The Skagit Flats Marathon & Half Marathon is happening in Burlington every year in mid-September. Get your running shoes out because this year’s race is on Sunday, September 12th. There is both a half marathon and a full marathon, both of which are run on an out and back course in Burlington and Bow. The race starts from the high school and lives up to its name as the Skagit “Flats” run because this race is dead flat. There is almost zero elevation change in this run, making it the perfect race for all levels.
Sedro-Wooley Car show
Also in September, the Sedro-Woolley car show will be held on the same day as the Skagit Flats Marathon this year! On Sunday, September 12th, the car show will be held at Murdock and Woodworth. This classic car show is a fun event to walk through and dream about your next classic car purchase or even enter your car into the show. The car show is held every year and is always highly attended. Make sure to plan ahead for lack of parking and make sure to register your vehicle the morning of, before you park, if you plan to participate.
Skagit County is home to a wide array of summer activities. With outdoor music, car shows, delicious summer eats, and more, you are sure to never run out of things to do in Skagit County. Get your summer schedules started now because there are so many fun events that your calendar will start to fill up!
There are so many unique spots in Skagit County to beat the heat and swim, kayak, or even fish. With several rivers, lakes, and even access to the Puget Sound, there is a water activity for everyone. While temperatures remain modest in Skagit County in the summertime, coastal humidity can make the area feel hot! Whether you are planning your summer vacation to the pacific northwest or you are a local looking for a new adventure, this guide will help you decide on the best activities on the water for you this summer.
Whether you have a whole family to entertain or are looking for some quiet time by yourself this summer, Skagit County is the place to come. With over 100 lakes, two major rivers, three Islands, and miles of coastline, you are guaranteed to find an activity that suits you.
Anacortes kayaking
Anacortes is the entrance to the San Juan Islands. If you are looking for a saltwater adventure, Anacortes Kayak Tours may be for you. The Anacortes Kayaking Tour company requires no previous kayaking experience. You will kayak around Burrows Island and several other small islands in the area. The San Juan Islands are known for Bald Eagles, seals, porpoises, deer, and sometimes orcas, grey whales, or humpbacks.
These trips are family-friendly and guided by knowledgeable staff that will help you get comfortable in your kayak. Depending on the direction your group takes, you may get stunning views of the Olympic Mountain Range, the North Cascades, Mt. Baker, or Mt. Rainer. Kayaking is suitable for all levels of physical fitness, and is a great way to get out on the water. Kayaking tours start at just $79 for adults and are sure to be a highlight of your summer adventures.
Multi-Day Kayaking Trips
Suppose you are a more adventurous kayaker or have more time to spend. In that case, the Anacortes Kayak Tours co offers multi-day Island hopping tours that feature camping. Multi-day tours also feature even more exceptional views with 6 hours of kayaking a day. The San Juan’s experience many days of sun and good weather during the summer months. Another fun option is the bioluminescent night tour. Bioluminescent organisms light up the water and offer an incredible kayak experience. This trip is weather and condition dependent but is another option for a unique adventure to beat the heat.
Rosario Beach/ Deception pass
If you are looking for a saltwater experience with excellent views, Rosario Beach in Skagit County is great. Rosario beach is connected to Bowmans Bay, a small bay home to seals, birds, calm water, hiking, and more.
There is a small boat launch at Rosario beach perfect for launching kayaks. You can also paddleboard to cruise around the bay area. Head out toward the large rocks at the mouth of the bay! You may see seals, porpoises, or starfish on the rock itself. The bay usually has very calm water making it the perfect place to paddle or kayak for all levels. You can also often find remote control boat races happening during the summer months at Bowman’s Bay.
There are a number of hikes at Rosario Beach that offer views of the Salish Sea and Deception pass. In the channel facing Deception Pass, you can occasionally see Orcas passing by. While the saltwater is cold, Rosario Beach is a great place to dip your toes. Walk the beach to look at crabs, beach rocks, and other sea life.
Washington park
Washington Park is a great water location for those who don’t necessarily want to get wet. With a cool breeze blowing in off the water, Washington Park is usually several degrees cooler than the rest of the county. Washington Park is arguably one of the best locations in the entire county to watch the sunset during the summer months. There is a number of picnic tables facing the water with park BBQs available.
Washington Park has both a large grassy area, perfect for picnics, as well as a beach and several viewpoints. If you are looking for a place to beat the heat and spend an afternoon, this is an excellent option for families, couples, and solo adventures. Parking is free, and there is also a public boat launch if you are in need of one.
Skagit River
The Skagit River runs across the entirety of Skagit County. The river itself begins in southwest British Columbia in Canada and ends by flowing into the Puget Sound. The river is roughly 150 miles long. The Skagit River is excellent for fishing, swimming, boating, and fishing.
The Skagit River is the only river in the United States that is home to all five species of salmon. If you are a fishing enthusiast, then look no further. There are plenty of great areas to fish on the river. The Skagit River is home to great fishing for Silvers, King salmon, Stealhead’s, and more. Many people fish from boats, but there are plenty of areas to fish from the shore as well in the Skagit Valley.
Diablo Lake on the Skagit River
If you want to venture just outside of Skagit County, you can follow the river up highway 20 to Diablo Lake, which is a reservoir created by the Diablo dam. The water here is often a picture-perfect blue, and there are plenty of viewpoints along highway 20 to take in the views. The Skagit river also supports one of the largest populations of Bald Eagles in the United States. No matter where you are on the river, you are bound to find lots of fish, birds, and views.
Swimming in the Skagit River can be hazardous, so please pick carefully where you might want to take a dip. As you travel up highway 20 toward lake Diablo, there are a few safe swimming areas. Be aware that snowmelt and rain can drastically affect the water levels and how fast the water is moving.
Lakes
There are 137 lakes in Skagit County. From high alpine lakes to calm residential watering holes, there is plenty of excellent areas to cool off in the area and beat the heat.
Lakes in Skagit County
Whistle Lake
For cliff jumping, swimming and hiking, head to Anacortes to Whistle Lake. This lake is popular during the summer months because of its array of cliffs overhanging the lake, bringing in young adventures for the cliffs. Jumping. If you are looking for a nice place to float, this lake usually has plenty of lake-side spots to set up a day camp and is quiet and protected in a wooded area. It is an excellent place to lounge on a floaty for the day.
Lake Shannon
Lake Shannon is a great place to kayak, boat, jet ski, paddleboard, and swim. This lake is near Concrete, Washington, and offers stunning views of Mt. Baker. With a public boat launch and plenty of beachside nooks to hide out in, Lake Shannon is one of the best lakes for water toys. It is large and offers enough room for boats and kayakers to enjoy the lake. If you are ready for a day at the lake, pack a lunch and paddle your way to the best shoreline spots.
Hidden Lake
If you are looking for a trek to get to your cool-off spot, Hidden Lake is the lake for you. This 8 mile- out and back hike offers stunning views of the north cascades and a great way to enjoy new areas of Skagit county. Hidden lake is located at the top of the hike and is a great place to have lunch and enjoy the views.
Baker Lake
Just outside of Concrete, Wa, you will find Baker Lake. Baker Lake is a massive lake situated just inside the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Park. Home to hiking, fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming areas. With stunning views of Mt. Baker and plenty of coves and beaches to explore, it is a favorite place for many people from Skagit County. Bake lake has a few different swimming areas and public parks that often fill up during the summer months, so grab a parking spot early in the day. If you are looking for a hike, there is a trail on the south side of the lake with incredible views of the mountains and even a few spots to jump in and swim. Bake Lake is known for its trout fishing, and fisherman cruise the edges of the lake during the summertime for trout and bass.
Sauk River
Sauk River is a 45-mile long river that drains a high area of the North Cascades. This river flows into the Skagit River, but it is known for its snowmelt and icy cold water year-round. The Sauk River is a popular rafting location. With plenty of class 3 and 4 rapids, it is the perfect intermediate wilderness adventure.
If you are looking for an adventure in the water, check out Triad River Tours to book your rafting adventure for this summer. Rafting trips start at 85 dollars and offer a 1.5-2.5 hour raft trip with stunning mountain views. Rafting is an excellent way to get on the water and beat the heat.
Sauk river is also known for its fly fishing. The river is remote and offers exceptional views and stunning waters. The locals identify the perfect fly fishing when the water turns a clear green. If you are ready for fly fishing in the great wilderness of the foothills of the cascades, Sauk River is the stop for you.
Beat the Heat on the coast
There are miles of coast in Skagit County and even a few islands Guemes Island, Cypress Island, and Sinclair, make a trifecta of bliss as you head into the Islands. If you are looking to take in the views and experience Island life, head to Guemes Island. You will cross a short waterway by ferry from Anacortes and land on the tiny Island. Guemes is only 8 square miles and offers stunning views of the cascades and the sound. If you have a boat or kayak, consider doing an Island tour of these three Islands to enjoy the ocean breeze and beat the heat. These islands are close enough together that you can kayak or boat around them and spend the day taking in the views, watching the seals and birds, and fellow boaters.
Samish Island and Padilla Bay are also part of the Skagit Valley; both of these locations offer a number of beachfront areas to launch kayaks, fish, and cruise the beaches for crabs. While Samish Island is largely private property, Padilla Bay has a fantastic walking trail that sits just on the edge of the water. It is a great place to enjoy the cool air from the water, go bird watching, and watch the tide come in and out.
Skagit County has countless places to cool off by the water and beat the heat. Skagit County has you covered whether you are looking for a salty breeze by the ocean, a lake day, or a wilderness river adventure. There is no end to the exceptional views or adventures that you can have on the water in the area. If you want to fish, kayak, swim, or simply hang by the water’s edge, you don’t have to choose. With so many options all in one county, you could start your morning rafting in the foothills of the Cascades and end the day enjoying the sunset over the ocean.
For the past year Wanda Degolier “Plant Whisperer” and her team of indoor plant specialist have been rooting and reviving everything in Tacoma area.
“What makes us different is that I am able to help your plants back to health and I want to teach you how to allow your plants to live a fulfilled life.”
Wanda is the owner of 8Rs Indoor Plant Specialist, a Colorado native, born and raised, now a Tacoma fan and call home after the last 20 years.
Local Biz Hero Giving Us a Breath of Fresh Air
Wanda is what we like to call a Local Biz Hero, a self-made entrepreneur who brings true value to her community. From being laid off because of the pandemic, she rooted herself with nature. After reviving a whole room of plants, ,she wanted to bless the community with nature. If your business or home needs new plants or someone to care for them, Wanda is the one to contact. Serving businesses all over the South Sound with splash of greenery and fresh air.
Every dollar that Wanda makes goes back to supporting the local business ecosystem and the community as her family supports our community by “giving us a breath of fresh air.“
“I was a plant lady before I started my business. When I was laid off and found those dead plants, I knew I had to do something. I have been given the name “Plant Whisperer” because of my ways with the plants.”
How did you get into this profession?
“I wanted to give locals a bit of nature everywhere they went. Now i help many businesses with their plants and upkeep. I like to educate locals on the caring of plants. Empowering them to do it for themselves.
Being a gardener who works directly with many people, we asked her what is the most unusual situation that ever happened to you on the job?
“Over the last year, more often than none, I’ll have locals ask me how to care for certain plants. They would be receiving them from recently deceased loved ones that have been caring for them for years. It’s weird but it is a way for them have something of theirs to remember them by. “
If you could share one tip with the readers for choosing a plant service, what would it be?
“I am a full-service plant hospital. You bring me your sick plants and I will do my best to revive them. We also do on sight estimates. We want to keep people healthy through plants. “
Indoor Plant Specialist
For those of you who are looking for a professional plant specialist, Wanda and her R8s Indoor Plant Specialist should be your first choice. Call Wanda at 253-678-8547 or visit www.8-Rs.com/ – Giving you a breath of fresh air!
