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Complete Guide of Things to do in Ocean Shores WA

The Best and Complete Guide to Ocean Shores, WA

The city of Ocean Shores, on the coast of Washington state is a quaint, friendly small town that needed a complete guide to the city and all activities, restaurants, events and more. We took on the task of compiling all our our favorite things to do in Ocean Shores and more! This is the best guide regarding Ocean Shores and covers; activities, kid zones, events, restaurants, coffee & treats, birding, shoreline, after hours, oyhut bay, shopping, hotels, airbnb’s, camping and a ton more. For quick access to a section, click on one of the category links below. And if you have any feedback or updates to our list, please let us know!

Section Categories for Quick Access

Activities

Kid Zone

Events

Restaurants

Coffee & Treats

Birding

Shoreline

After Hours

Oyhut Bay

Shopping

Hotels

AirBnb's

Camping

Other

Credits

Activities in Ocean Shores

GOLF

Driving range at Ocean Shores Golf Course courtesy of hwcdn.net

Ocean Shores Golf Course
500 Canal Dr NE, Ocean Shores, WA 98569
360.289.3357
http://oceanshoresgolf.com/
Ocean Shores has many outstanding options for the avid golfer, including a wide variety courses and plenty of tee times to fit your schedule. Plan to play a new course during your stay in Ocean Shores and take advantage of the incredible deals on tee times available through GolfNow. If golf is your thing, Ocean Shores is a great place to get in some golf time.

Pacific Paradise
767 Minard Ave NW, Ocean Shores, WA 98569
360.289.9537
https://www.pacificparadisepark.com
Championship golf… with a putter! This is the largest miniature golf course on the Washington Coast, with 36 holes of fun for the whole family—day and night. Putt over the bridge, through a lighthouse, and around rocks and boulders. Both sand and water hazards await you for the ultimate game-time challenge.
RATES
18 Holes – $11
36 Holes – $15

BIKING

Electric Beach Bike Rentals
172 W Chance a La Mer NW | Ocean Shores, WA 98569
360.593.7441
https://www.electricbeachbikerentals.com/
Read a great review on TripAdvisor here
One of the best things to do in Ocean Shores is biking around town, as the area is very bike-friendly. You can bring your own bike if you have one or rent them from several different companies. We especially like renting because they’ve got the great electric bikes that really give you the extra power you need when getting through the soft sand and out to the more compact sand near the water.

FLY KITES

Ocean Shores Kites
172 W Chance a La Mer NW, Ocean Shores, WA 98569
360.289.4103
http://www.oceanshoreskites.com/
Ocean Shores Kites is our go-to kites store. Not only do they have super unique kites, but about every trick kite you can imagine. We especially love their knowledge of kites and the options for those on a tight budget. Kids kites are a must in ocean shores. Even the big kids love seeing a kite fly on the shores.

Amanda Moore was impressed by the customer service in her review here.

Cloud Nine Sportswear & Kites
201 W Chance A La Mer Ave. Ocean Shores WA 98569
360.289.2221

PADDLE BOARDING

Ocean Shores Boat House
952 Point Brown Ave SE, Ocean Shores, WA 98569
360-289-0487
https://www.osboathouse.com/
The Ocean Shores Boat House is a Veteran Owned Business. Rent Duffy Electric 21’ Cruiser boats, Sea Eagle 385FT kayaks, Sea Eagle NN14 stand-up paddleboards, and the Explorer I hydro bike. Choose the equipment you wish to explore the 23 miles of fresh waterways – the hidden gem of Ocean Shores. All watercraft are eco-friendly and made in the U.S.A.

Debbie Snidarich in her review on Google described how she had a blast on the waterways. My daughter and I had a blast on the hydrobikes! The owners were so helpful and friendly and made sure we knew how to use them and gave us whistles and a map to see where we were going.

Surfing

North Coast Surf Inc
73 Point Brown Ave NW Unit A, Ocean Shores, WA 98569
(360) 289-0651
https://www.northcoastsurfshopwa.com/

Believe it or not, surfing is a big thing in Ocean Shores and Westport. And every surf town needs a surf shop, and Ocean Shores is no different. They have just about everything you need for surf and skate, as well as clothing, swimwear, sunglasses, sandals, jewelry, and of coarse, stickers. Staying for the day or weekend? They have board and wetsuit rentals for a fun beach day.

Joe Falk in his review on Google said, “Got a lesson from Aaron this morning and the whole experience was epic from putting the wet suit on to catching that wave near the end of my lesson. “

Kid Zone in Ocean Shores

Arcade

Pacific Paradise Family Fun Center
767 Minard Avenue NW Ocean Shores WA 98569
Email: info@pacificparadisepark.com
360.289.9537
https://www.pacificparadisepark.com/

Hours:
Sunday: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
Monday-Thursday: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
*Hours subject to change without notice

https://www.instagram.com/pacificparadisepark/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CW83EbmDcK3/

Pacific Paradise is an amusement park and mini-golf course in Ocean Shores, Washington. Their focus is on family-friendly fun and their newly designed and recently updated grounds have something for everyone. It’s really amazingly well done for this small town. The wide variety of activities at Pacific Paradise are top notch for any big city!

One visitor named Gynene Lane on Facebook said, “My family came from out of town and we all went and played 18 holes of golf. It was so nice! Except for a few careless people discarding their masks, it was clean and well manicured. The granddaughters rode the water rides, and we played arcades. Wonderful afternoon!!”

Bowling

Ocean Shores bowling

Shores Bowl
125 W. Chance Ala Mer Ave. Ocean Shores WA 98569
360.289.9356
Email: obshaver8@hotmail.com

Saturday: 12:00 PM – 01:00 AM
https://www.facebook.com/shoresbowlwa/
Shores Bowl is a fun and friendly place to spend the afternoon or evening with family and friends. Food, drinks, games and parties all under one roof!

Luecinda Soriano-Churape (Cinder) left a review on Google and said, “We went on our last night of vacation. It was Saturday night. They were pretty full and it was probably close to 10pm. Every worker we encountered felt nice, talkative, and welcoming. We love the atmosphere of this town. I loved the small arcade and we spent an equal amount of time playing there too. We bowled two games also with one game with the night glow lights on. It was so fun.”

The continuation of this guide is a work in progress as of 9/7/22.

Events

Sand & Sawdust
Celtic Festival

Restaurants

American Food
Asian
Mexican
Seafood,

Coffee

Coffee stands
roasters
local retailers

Birding

Trails
Areas
Species

Shoreline

– Vehicles, Campfires, Beachcombing, Clam Digging

After Hours

Pubs, Bars, Nightlife

Oyhut

Outside activities, shopping, restaurants, events, lodging

Shopping

Clothes, Food

Hotels

Budget
Family Friendly
Pools
Cleanliness
Pricing

Airbnb’s

Beachfront
Canal Front
Luxury
Budget
Family Friendly

Camping

Campgrounds
RV Parks
State Parks
Private campgrounds

Skagit county spans from the Puget Sound into the North Cascades. This expansive county is home to plenty of outdoor activities as well as great eats and entertainment. Here we will help you decide on where to eat the best Skagit County food. This guide will provide a few excellent restaurants and activities in all the major areas of the county so your trip can be mapped out before you even get here.

Skagit County food: Where to Eat in Anacortes, Wa

Anacortes is the westernmost town in Skagit County. Often referred to as the entrance to the Islands because of its close proximity to the San Juan Islands, Anacortes is home to great food and summer activities. If you are looking for a bit to eat, there are quite a few excellent options. Head into the A-town Bistro on Commercial Ave for local food with a rustic, old-world flair. With a range of seafood options and exciting choices like their Wild Boar Burger, the A-Town is a fan favorite. They also have an excellent collection of craft beers and spirits. The average price of the A-town ranges from $20-40 for the main entrée.

If you are looking to eat on the water, check out Anthony’s at Cap Sante Marina or Anthony’s- The Cabana. Both of these restaurants are located on the same property and offer great views of the Marina. The Cabana is an outdoor restaurant with a casual vibe and great family-friendly options. The Cabana is the less expensive option of the two restaurants and has a full-sized bocce ball court to play during dining. Anthony’s at Cap Sante Marina is a fine dining restaurant with an excellent array of seafood options, pasta, and delicious appetizers.

Activities in Anacortes

A few times every year, Anacortes shuts down its main street to host festivals. Every July, Anacortes hosts Shipwreck Fest. This festival started thirty-nine years ago when local fishermen would sell their used gear as yard art on the main street. Today there are over 200 vendors that line Commercial Ave with food, crafts, and hand-crafted goods. Plan on spending a few hours here as there are many booths to stop at and there is also usually live music hidden somewhere in the rows of vendors.

Where to eat in La Conner, Wa

Moving east just slightly in Skagit County, you will find a tiny town right on the water. This town is known for its incredible views of the water, fun shopping, and excellent food. For Breakfast, The Calico Cupboard Cafe is a must-stop. There are actually two more of these delicious Cafes located in Anacortes and Mt. Vernon, so you have three chances to make a stop on your tour of Skagit County. These restaurants pride themselves on made-from-scratch baked goods and local ingredients. Their Bakery is located in the Anacortes location, where they whip up massive cinnamon rolls, homemade bread, and hundreds of cookies every morning. The average price of a meal here ranges from $15-20. The La Conner location features outdoor dining on the water and excellent food for both breakfast and Lunch. The Calico Cupboard is dedicated to serving up the freshest food possible, sourced from local ingredients and inspired by whatever is in season. This is a must-stop!

While Snow Goose Produce is closer to Conway than La Conner, it is a must for the summer! While they are a produce market for local fruits and veggies, oysters, and fresh fish, there is usually a line out the door for their ice cream! Flavors infused with local berries and dairy right from the county make Snow Goose a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Come prepared to wait for your delicious treat because lines often head out the door into the back garden. I promise the wait will be worth it, though, as the ice cream comes out in mega scoops on homemade cones.

Bow & Edison

On the north side of the Skagit Valley, you will find Bow and the tiny town of Edison. This area is the perfect stop for bikers as there are miles or backroads through farmlands with views of Puget Sound and the North Cascades. There are a few great restaurants in Edison worth noting. If you are looking for a local take on pizza, try Terramar Brewstillery. With views of the sound and outdoor seating with fireplaces, this is the perfect summer spot. With Pizzas from regular pepperoni to Kale and Wild mushrooms, there is something for everyone here. Pizzas start at $16. Terramar also offers local taps, housemade sodas, and cocktails.

If you are looking for bar food with great views, stop at the Longhorn. This restaurant sits directly on the slough with great views for sunset. With typical bar food, great beer, and a huge outdoor seating area, the Longhorn is excellent for those 21 and up. If you are traveling without kids, this is a perfect choice. Another great 21 plus location in Edison is The Edison. Located at the end of the main street, the Edison is the spot where the locals head. Home to pool tables, great beer, and a good food menu, the Edison is a popular spot for bikers (both motorcycle and pedal alike).

If you are in Edison during the day, check out Sloughfoods for more great views and wine and cheese. This restaurant is known for its wine and appetizers! With only a few things on the menu, Slough Food offers gourmet cheeses from all over the world. Paired with excellent wine and service, slough foods is the perfect place to hand out for a few hours. Their food menu ranges from $5-$15, and they offer a wide range of wines.

Best Skagit County Foods: Burlington

If you head into Burlington, the most popular spot on any given night must be the Train Wreck Bar and Grill. This 21 and over bar sits right next to the train tracks that run through Burlington, and they offer drink specials every time a train goes by. On a Saturday night, every chair will be full. The Trainwreck provides a higher-end take on traditional bar food. They also offer a Saturday and Sunday brunch menu that draws in locals. If you are traveling with kids, the Trainwreck has a sister restaurant just a few blocks away. The Railroad is a pizza joint that offers an indoor-outdoor feel with huge glass doors that are always open during the summer months. In addition to pizza, the Railroad offers craft beers, great appetizers, and sandwiches.

This is just a tiny taste of Skagit County! There are tons of breweries that scatter the county that is worth checking out. Most of the restaurants in Skagit county are owned by locals and love serving up great food and excellent service to tourists during the summer months. The best part about Skagit County Food is there is always another superb place to checkout.

You can’t go very far in Boise without stumbling upon a unique and delicious restaurant. From fun, trendy food trucks, to fine dining, to foreign cuisine, you will be sure to find something that you will enjoy and be coming back for more.

Boise Fry Co.

Where better to start than with a restaurant that shares the name of the city and features the vegetable that Idaho is famous for, potatoes! Unlike most burger restaurants where the fries are a compliment to the burger, Boise Fry Co. puts the fries on center stage.

With 6 different kinds of potatoes to choose from, including purple potatoes, as well as 5 different styles of cut, you can mix and match to find your dream fry. It doesn’t stop there! No fry is complete without proper dipping sauce, and Boise Fry Co. didn’t skimp on this section of the menu either. Featuring sauces such as garlic aioli, spicy fry sauce, blueberry ketchup, chipotle, sweet mustard, marshmallow, and regular ketchup, you have plenty of options for what you’re going to dunk your fry into. Even though they say “Burgers On The Side” they still give you plenty of delicious options, such as a bison burger, turkey burger, and a beef/mushroom combination burger.

Bittercreek Alehouse

If you’re looking for a place to have a beer and a delicious lunch or dinner you should try out Bittercreek Alehouse. Located on 8th St. nestled in amongst dozens of other great restaurants, Bittercreek still stands out and has been a favorite for locals for quite some time. They offer your typical pub fare but with a twist. They don’t just have fries, they have polenta fries, and you can turn your fries or polenta fries into poutine for just a bit more. You’ll probably have trouble deciding which entree to select with options such as inside-out grilled cheese, lamb burger, and a smoked trout salad. If you’re looking for high quality food and atmosphere that consistently delivers, look no further than Bittercreek.

Lemon Tree Co.

Sandwiches are their specialty, but they provide wonderful compliments of soup and salad that makes Lemon Tree Co. one of the best places for lunch in Boise. Unique options such as the PB & JJB (jam, jalapenos, and bacon), sausage and pear, and Massaman Curry Bahn Mi highlight the sandwich section, but there are plenty of other options if none of those are speaking to you. They offer a wide range of salad options but you’d be missing out if you didn’t get a cup of the creamy tomato-basil soup to dunk your sandwich in. Take a look at their sandwiches here to see what you could be having for lunch today!

Paddles Up Poke

Trying to find good, raw seafood in Idaho can be somewhat tricky, but Paddles Up Poke has absolutely nailed it. Unlike traditional sushi, a “Poke Bowl” is typically made up of rice, raw fish, and traditional sushi toppings like ginger, seaweed salad, and cucumber. Paddles Up has been voted “Best poke, best lunch, and best caterer” in Boise since 2017, not too shabby for opening their doors in 2016. They offer an extensive range of seafood, toppings, and sauces such as the “piranha sauce” to let you make your bowl your own. Not a seafood fan? They even offer chicken for those who prefer that option.

Kibrom’s Ethiopian & Eritrean Cuisine

Kibrom’s offers authentic Ethiopian dishes that are as fun to eat as they are delicious.

Most dishes are served injera a spongy flatbread that is used to grab the meat and veggies that come with the meal. They have tons of combinations of ingredients, including beef, lamb, chicken, lentils, kale, potatoes, and cabbage, all simmered in their delicious sauces.

Tango’s Empanadas

This Argentina treasure comes in an unassuming package. Located on the bench, you could easily miss Tango’s if you’re not looking out for it. As you could imagine from the name, Empanadas are the focal point of the menu. These delicious fried turnover come with a number of fillings, all of them delicious. They offer 22 savory empanadas, including beef, pork, chicken, fish, vegetarian, even mac and cheese. To match the savory empanadas they also have 22 dessert empanadas for those with a sweet tooth.

Alavita

Alavita is an italian restaurant that does things the right way. Fresh, handmade pasta, locally sourced ingredients, and an attention to detail that makes every dish feel special. They offer some interesting dishes such as black ravioli and squid ink bucatini, but where Alavita really shines is the quality of their ingredients and the talent of their staff. It’s something you need to experience to truly understand, so give them a try!

Bombay Grill

If you’re looking to fill up at lunch time, and possibly not go back to work, Bombay Grill is a wonderful place to check out. With a fairly priced lunch buffet, you can dig into all your favorite Indian dishes such as butter chicken, saag, curry, and tikka masala. Served with fresh, buttery-garlic naan that makes you never want to leave, Bombay Grill is truly one of the best places in Boise to visit.

Curious about great food in other cities? Check out our other articles at cleverneighbor.com

If you’re into fantastic local brews, you need to explore the Bellingham beer scene.

Bellingham is a College town in northern Washington, across the border from Canada. It’s known for its great community and cool activities. But another thing it’s known for is the amazing beer scene.

Right now, Bellingham has at least 13 breweries within city limits. Most of them are close to each other in the downtown area. For those that are a little further out, you can reach them by bike or car.

The Bellingham beer scene is also dog-friendly, with lots of options to sit outside. Plus, all but three breweries are family friendly, so don’t worry about leaving the kids behind.

None of this would matter if the beer wasn’t good. And believe us, Bellingham beer is some of the best local beer in Washington.

Check out our guide to the Bellingham beer scene.

Get Started with the Bellingham Tap Trail

With so many great options for beer in Bellingham, it’s hard to know where to start. That’s why beer lovers created the Bellingham Tap Trail.

The Tap Trail is a printed guide of all the breweries in and around Bellingham. They also publish information about the beer-related events, like Bellingham Beer Week.

Grab one of their “passports” and get a special stamp at each brewery. Once your card is full, trade it in for cool Tap Trail swag.

A Tap Trail pub crawl is a great way to explore the city. But don’t forget to eat along the way!

Bellingham Beer Spots You Have to Visit

If you don’t have time for a full pub crawl, there are still some great breweries you should visit.

Wander Brewing

Wander Brewing is one of the top Bellingham beer locations. They have a great beer selection, with a popular assortment of darker beers. Ask for samples, or buy a flight for the table before you settle on one drink.

They don’t serve food, but there are food truck options available. If you want a drink or something to eat, you can get up and order from the bar.

There’s lots of seating both inside and outside. Wander Brewing is a great spot if you want to chill out for a few hours.

Aslan Brewing Company

Aslan Brewing is another popular spot in Bellingham. They offer their own beer plus a vegetarian-friendly menu.

Most patrons recommend their IPAs. But if that’s not your beer of choice, there are also good stout options.

The brewery has outdoor seating and is good with both children and dogs.

Structures Brewing

If you love IPAs, then get to Structures Brewing. They have a selection of IPAs and Double IPAs. While they’re good at what they do, Structures offers other kinds of beers like stouts.

Seating areas are not as large as other breweries, but the atmosphere is nice and relaxed. It’s a good place to visit with your friends after spending all day at the Downtown Farmer’s Market.

Illuminati Brewing Co.

The fact that Illuminati Brewing is good should be no secret. This brewery offers unique drinks with creative twists. The dark beers are popular, plus they have a beer called Purple Rain that is actually purple! They also have a great lineup of English ales.

Illuminati Brewing partners with Masquerade Winery to create a great craft alcohol experience. If you’re looking for something to nosh on while you sample the beers, try their cheese and meat platter.

Stones Throw Brewery

The Stones Throw Brewery is within walking distance from downtown Bellingham. It’s also a “stone’s throw” from Boulevard Park and the Interurban Trail.

Other than the great location, this microbrewery has a lot of events to offer. They host trivia nights, giant Jenga, and a different food truck each night. It’s both dog and family friendly, so don’t worry about leaving anyone at home.

They offer a variety of different brews that they switch out regularly. They also sell hard ciders and their own ginger ale, a nice departure from the typical IPA and stouts. Their Raincounty Liquid Sunshine Lager is one of their most popular drinks.

Kulshan Brewing Co.

Kulshan Brewing Co. is one of those Bellingham beer spots you have to visit more than once. Their seasonal offerings make up a large part of the menu, so one stop won’t give you the full experience.

They also round out their beer selection with a list of hard ciders. The ciders come in different flavors, like the blackcurrant cider and marionberry ciders. There’s also a pear cider you can try.

While they do sell cups of peanuts for a $1 each, their main food options are food trucks.

Menace Brewing

Menace Brewing is in the Fountain District of Bellingham. For a long time it was an auto body shop, but now it’s a great place to get a cold Hefeweizen.

The staff is very well informed, and a few of them even judge beers in competitions. So rest assured that if you ask for a recommendation, you’ll get a good one.

The tap room is dog-friendly, and street parking is rarely a problem.

Gruff Brewing Co.

Gruff Brewing is a little out of the way compared to other breweries, but their beers make up for it. Besides, they have plenty of signs that direct you to where you need to go.

The patio is large and inviting with lots of seating and fire-pits. They don’t have a lot of food, but there’s often a food truck nearby.

Gruff Brewing is also very dog-friendly, and many people take advantage of that. Expect to see lots of cute pups when you visit.

If your friend isn’t a beer person, they often have a few ciders on the menu. As for the beers, the IPAs are always a hit.

Want More Recommendations for Bellingham?

If you’re excited about the Bellingham beer scene, and want to explore even more of what Bellingham has to offer, then check out our other recommendations. Bellingham is a great city with lots to offer, and we want to be your guide.

Check out some of our other neighborhood guides here.

There are plenty of things to do in Bend during the Summer months. While Bend is a mecca for outdoor lovers and beer drinkers alike. Summer time is the prime time to enjoy many outdoor festivals, concerts, and beer-centric events.

While Bend’s scene is hopping and the sheer number of events could fill numerous posts, we’re going to focus on the main draws as well as some family-friendly happenings.

The Bend Brewfest– Bend Brewfest is 3 days of craft beer bliss. With over 200 craft beers, cider, and wine ready for your tastebuds, you can’t go wrong checking this one out. This event is staged at the Les Schwab Amphitheater every year. Purchase a souvenir mug (required for tastings) and beer tokens and get rolling! This event is family friendly until 5pm, but continues for the 21+ crowd until 11pm. Check out the Bend Brewfest website for more detailed information.

Bend Farmer’s Market– The market runs from May to October at the downtown location. Here you can purchase fresh local produce, meat, flower bouquets, baked goods and artisanal crafts. The market is located in Brooks Alley behind the Tower Theater.

Whitewater Park– Near the Old Mill District in the Deschutes River, Whitewater Park is the perfect solution for a hot summer day. The park is made up of 3 different channels that provide for human recreation as well as ecological conservation. You can kayak, canoe, or tube float down the river. Maybe a river surfing lesson is more your speed? We’ve got you covered. Check out the park’s website for maps and details.

Les Schwab Amphitheater– The amphitheater gets a slew of big-name acts throughout the summer, as well as playing host to the free summer Sunday concerts. Enjoy live music on the river, just feet away from the Old Mill District’s shopping and food options.

Theater in the Park– Who needs a theater hall! Enjoy amazing theatrical performances in Bend’s picturesque Drake Park. What better venue than the banks of the Deschutes? In year’s past the event has primarily showcased Shakespearean works, with a change in focus for 2018.

First Friday Art Walk– Every first Friday of the month, take a jaunt downtown or through the Old Mill District to see local art exhibits, artist talks, live music, and beer and wine tasting. Local shops are matched with artists and business hours are extended to showcase all that Bend’s artists have to offer.

Bend Summer Festival– Going strong for 28 years, the Bend Summer Festival attracts nearly 40,000 festival-goers for a weekend of fun. The festival is hosted in a cordoned-off downtown corridor with 3 stages for live music, as well as a Center Ring showing off the local talent such as aerial arts and dancing. There is a Family Fun Street with bouncy houses and kid-friendly activities. Check out Food & Libations Street to partake in some of Bend’s best beer and food cart vendors. If you pick one event to be in Bend for this summer, this is it.

Outdoor Recreation- One of the things Bend is known for is the multitude of outdoor activities at your fingertips. From golfing to hiking, cycling, paddling, fishing, or floating, there is something for everyone. There are plenty of outfits that can help you decide where to go and what to do, along with tour companies and gear rental shops. Check out some of the options here.

High Desert Museum- Whether you’re a kid or an adult, the museum is a load of fun for the entire family. Check out the Donald M. Kerr Birds of Prey Center and get up close and personal with a feeding raptor. The Reptile Encounter offers a chance to touch some of the lizards that call the high desert home. Watch otters wrestle in the Autzen Otter Exhibit or sit in on one of the many talks the museum hosts where you can learn about wild mustangs, fish, or High Desert history. Check out their website for the daily schedule and rotating exhibits.

Munch and Music– Happening every Thursday night from July through August. Munch and Music is a free family-friendly live concert event in Drake Park. Music begins at 5:30 and food vendors, local artisans, crafts, and bouncy houses round out the evenings.

The Little Woody Barrel-Aged Beer, Cider & Whiskey Festival– Celebrating craft barrel-aged beers, ciders, and whiskeys from the Northwest. Featuring 20+ breweries along with whiskey distillers, the festival highlights the historic technique of cask-aging. Minors are welcome until 6pm.

BEND HAS IT ALL

From floating the river to strolling around town or hitting the highway to one of the Cascade Lakes, Bend has something for everyone while the weather is good. And it’s usually pretty good! With 300+ days of sun each year, summer isn’t the only time to find yourself playing in Bend. Check out our blog post on off-season happenings to get some inspiration.

Bend’s food and drink has improved rapidly over the years. With many ethnic food options, a thriving food cart scene at The Lot, craft beer, and several bakeries, sometimes the options can be overwhelming when you just want to eat some good food. In an effort to highlight the best that Bend has to offer, we’ve curated a list of the best places to eat and standout joints here.

Sparrow Bakery

The famous Ocean Roll and cappuccino

Sparrow Bakery is one of Bend’s hot spots for breakfast and baked goods. Sparrow showcases items ranging from artisan breads to elaborate pastries and pies, but the shining star is their signature Ocean Roll. A flaky, delectable sweet roll with a cardamom sugar filling, you cannot go wrong ordering one of these. You haven’t been to Bend if you haven’t had an Ocean Roll! Sparrow also features a roster of local coffee roasters on espresso and serves up a mean cappuccino which complements any one of their pastries quite well. Their menu consists of soups, sandwiches, and other daily specials. The Scott Street location is the original Sparrow location and has been open since 2006. You can now find Sparrow at their second location in Northwest Crossing, which is a great option since Scott Street’s itty-bitty space can sometimes be overflowing with ravenous customers on the weekends. The outdoor seating area has propane heaters and sits on a lovely brick patio. Be sure to hop next-door to the Workhouse to be wowed by the local crafters and makers who have set up shop in this workshop/gallery space.

Parrilla Grill

Parrilla has the grungy, no-frills feel of a local dive-bar but with astounding value and fresh, flavorful food. Parrilla Grill has been open since 2000 and has become a go-to for college students and people hitting the slopes at Mt. Bachelor. Expect a line, come hungry (and thirsty! $1 PBR’s all day every day). The wraps and bowls that are served up here can be customized to your particular palate and dietary needs, with protein options from tofu to beef to salmon. Gluten free? Ask for your burrito to come in a bowl instead! Each wrap comes standard with recommended salsas and sauces, although if you have a particular aversion they can leave it off with no problem. Parrilla is known for Uncle Wedgie’s Margarita, and although it comes in a plastic cup, don’t let it fool you, the booze is strong with this one. Seven different rotating taps feature many of the local breweries of Bend, as well as two rotating kombucha taps. An imaginative kids’ menu keeps everyone in the family happy.

Wild Rose Thai

Wild Rose is a family owned and operated northern Thai restaurant. The ambience alone is worth the trip. The decor inside is a bit bohemian with dried flowers hanging from the ceilings and tables filling the entire space. While you might have to put your name on a waiting list to get in, the food is totally worth the wait and comes out with mindblowing speed. The menu is crafted from decades of family recipes with the addition of the Chef’s own signature spins on traditional northern Thai cuisine. No Pad Thai here! Be sure to take a seat at the bar and check out their imaginative cocktail list.

Jackson’s Corner

If local, sustainably sourced food is your game, then Jackson’s Corner has you covered. They believe in consciously sourcing the ingredients for their menu items. The original location on the westside of Bend boasts a wood-fired oven where they pump out delicious pizzas on their house-made dough. Just around the corner from the restaurant you can stop in to the production bread-baking facility and take a gander at the beautiful loaves that Jackson’s bakes fresh every day. Their menu changes seasonally with the available ingredients, but you can always find a range of wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes using fresh, house-made pasta. Jackson’s commitment to locally sourced ingredients is reflected in the pride with which each dish is plated and served. Check out their website for a list of Oregon farmers that supply Jackson’s Corner with everything from greens to beef.

Spork

The winner of several “Best Of” categories from the local Source Weekly newspaper as well as being written up in the New York Times, Spork is not to be missed. From humble beginnings in an Airstream trailer converted into a food kitchen, Spork’s brick and mortar location on the westside is busy, and for good reason. Spork’s menu is designed by chef and owner Jeff Hunt and is globally inspired from many traditions across the world. With Mexican pozole to Peruvian lomo saltado, Thai green curry and Korean barbecue, the menu options abound. Spork also boasts daily specials, a slew of house cocktails, and of course draft beer. Spork offers takeout options and catering services.

Have a favorite Bend restaurant that didn’t make the list? Let us know in the comments below! We are always updating our lists of the best places to eat.

Whether you’re a dedicated brunchie, a classic diner hound, or just looking for a place to eat breakfast on a weekend we’re all out for one thing; our ideal breakfast spot

Everyone is entitled to a good breakfast. Even after a bike ride I prefer to conclude it with some semblance of a meal. No better time of the day than to go on a couple dozen mile bike ride then to top it off with a hearty breakfast. Portland has many restaurants to chose from. I will be covering some well known and other not so well known as we take a tour of Portland breakfast places.

The day was April 18th, 2015. My buddy needed some help moving house from the east side over to Hillsdale. It wouldn’t take long. The truck needed to get picked up and was just shy of ten miles away so we opted to grab some breakfast nearby. It was a perfectly sunny morning and not too cold to fit in an early bike ride. We rode from his old apartment in SE over to the cafe.

Cricket Cafe

On the corner on Belmont and SE 32nd is the cozy early bird restaurant coined Cricket Cafe.This place makes great food and is one of Portland’s oldest and fondest breakfast and brunch haunts. The food is exactly how one expects breakfast if you love a plethora of food and amazing taste! Burritos are big and loaded with tons of flavor. Just about whatever you order gets a side of potatoes. The potatoes are cubed and perfectly fried.

Just know, there could be a little wait but the staff here is great and portions are more than satisfactory.

I recently found out that Cricket was closed a while but, thankfully, is now back and packing the house as before. I’ve haven’t been able to check out the new place as of yet but will be planning to in the near future. All indicators and reviews rave that the food is still just as good as it was before new management. Please go check it out the place and let us know what you think!

Recommendations:

Savory: Looking for something filling? Grab the Truck Driver Burrito.

Sweet: Check out the Honey Cinnamon French Toast.

Jefe

Our next recommendation is Jefe. It is located off the main artery off Boones Ferry Rd close to Kruse Way. Skip the croissants with brie with the hour+ lines at the Parisian brunch place next door. Treat yourself to this hip and urban brunchie favorite (Pease Note* Especially Weekly Brunchday, Sunday, there are still lines but the table turnover is still quicker than the place next door).

Is Jefe technically labeled Mexican Food? Sure, however, there there’s more than meets the eye. Jefe is versatile. The sous chef has implemented Jefe’s own variation of breakfast food. French Toast, Eggs Benedict, steak and eggs, tamales and eggs, omelets, and more. The food combines a minimalist focus on accents and flavor that does not disappoint.

Sunday is definitely the busiest day of the week to eat here. Saturday mornings seem to be less crowded and better the earlier you get there. To my recollection week days are usually a great time to go if you’re a stay-at-home mom looking to curb those at-home-blues. Jefe is a great option for a posh meal out, especially if you’re looking to go out with your friends but can’t stand another trip to another “Acme E-Z breakfast diner”.

Outdoor seating in the summertime makes this location a beautiful place to enjoy a meal outside. Inside there’s main seating with a circular bar almost in the center of the restaurant. Interior design combines minimalist with tactile. Bottles strung from the ceiling array light when backlit by the sun or from ceiling lights. There’s a fair composition of darkly stained lumber and pale masonry to really polish things off.

Recommendations: Modern pallets expect modern alterations, not least of which for breakfast. If you’re looking for a traditional breakfast with a twist I would try either the Mexican omelette or the Kuala Mexican Toast. If you’re looking for something new and experimental I recommend the Huevos Rancheros or the Barbacoa and Eggs. The house coffee here is great as well.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you could go to a breakfast place and make pancakes exactly the way you like them. Either perfectly golden or dough-tastic, you can make pancakes to your own preferred taste, all without having to leave the table. Sure, you can make pancakes at home but you don’t have a griddle built into your dinning room table! Isn’t the novelty of such a thing the reason why you would chose this place as your brunch destination? The place is called Slappy Cakes and it’s likely to be your next favorite place to make and eat pancakes since grandmas’s!

Chose from buttermilk, peanut butter, vegan/gluten free, seasonal and more. Then chose what “fixin’s” from chocolate chips to scallions and toppings from lavender honey to whipped cream (or goat cheese if you’re craving something tangy). Then you’re all set an ready to make pancakes.

Recommendation:

Savory: Country Fried Steak and Eggs… also whatever you get make sure it includes a side of Chicken friend bacon!

Sweet: The pancakes of course. Chocolate chip, strawberries, and whipped cream are a must.

Original Hotcake House

Speaking of grandparents, if your grandparents are coming into town, or even if you’re just the type who likes breakfast made in the way it has alway has, and always should be made then you’re going to want to check out the “Original Hotcake House“. Huge pancakes, fried chicken with biscuits and gravy. More than you can eat, omelettes. Omelettes with ingredients that just make sense like, the Meat Lover’s Omelette which is a personal favorite. French toast is perfect and you don’t need butter for these biscuits.

Try not to get throw off by the behind the counter ordering system. The folks here are very friendly and make some of the best breakfast in town.

Recommendations: Just about everything on the menu.

Savory: I would try the meat lovers omelette if you like eggs.

Sweet: The French toast are the next best thing!

Oliver’s Cafe

Portland’s Foster Street best is known for its 1980s era resilience. Not so much in a good way, but it a “miles of out of date and dilapidated buildings, store fronts, billboards, and empty lots” kind of way. Yes, there are exceptions to the rule and slowly but surely this area too will be absorbed into the greater Portland culture. The pocket which has already embraced this change is around the neighborhood between Mt. Scott and Lents in deep SE Portland and the breakfast place on our list is called Oliver’s Cafe.

Set in a modern brick building Oliver’s Cafe is the new standard for Foster St.

The menu embodies the classic breakfast choices of good ol’ comfort food with that home town style.

Recommendations:

Savory: Try the Country Chicken Friend Steak

Sweet: Belgian Waffles with Strawberries & whipped cream

Vivacé

If already covered the amazing-ness which is Vivacé in my previous coffee article you can check out here. But did you know that one of the best places in town to get crepes is undisputedly Vivacé. Sweet and savory; Nutella or mozzarella Vivacé does not disappoint.

Recommendations

Sweet: ice cream, chocolate sauce, banana, and whipped cream (Indulgent much? Yesss.)

Savory: The chicken crepe (with mozzarella, mushrooms, spring greens, tomato and creame pesto).

This, by no means, is a complete list, just places I’ve been and have really enjoyed. Let us know what you think of these and by all means, share your Portland favorite.

Seattle waterfront and skyline - Unique things near Seattle to do

Seattle is well known around the world as for it’s eccentric style and cultural scene. It’s also a burgeoning tech hub, seeing growth in just about every other industry. Whether you’re here for work or for a vacation, there is a lot to see from the Space Needle to Pike’s Place Market or a Seattle Storm WNBA game. But if you want to get off the beaten path, you should look for some of the more unique things near Seattle to check out.

For people who want to avoid the crowds, getting off the main path can be a relief. The added bonus is that next time you end up in Seattle with family or friends, you can show them something cool and sound like a local.

To get a taste of some of the more unique things near Seattle, check out these 7 sites.

1. Archie McPhee

If you like to check out cute novelty shops, see what Seattle has to offer. Archie McPhee has every kind of gift you need for holidays or for fun.

Have you ever thought about getting a unicorn horn for your cat or a mustache for your baby? Well, Archie McPhee has it. Browse their aisles for hours and you’ll see products you’d never even imagined.

Even if you’re not into novelty shopping, it’s a great place to browse for the fun of it. Dive into the weirdness and more bacon products than you could ever fit under a single roof.

2. Fremont Troll

This is one of the many great free things to see in Seattle. Legend has it the Fremont Troll lives underneath the Aurora Bridge, on the north end near N 36th Street.

It was created by a group of artists in 1990. The troll is made of steel rebar, concrete, wire, hubcaps, and an old Volkswagen Beetle.

The troll has been guarding the bridge for a quarter century and will likely still be there when we’re all gone.

3. Shoe Museum At Pike’s Place

Don’t expect an actual museum when you arrive. This giant shoe is actually part of an old traveling show. For a few cents, you can see a shoe that was once worn by the world’s tallest man.

You’ll see some other oddities and strange shoe related objects. Expect something off-beat and kitschy and you won’t be disappointed. It’s one of the great locations of vintage charm and unique things near Seattle.

4. Vashon Island Bike Tree

If you’re making a trek to Vashon Island, look up. While wandering through the forest, you’re likely to see a bike that’s going through the middle of a tree. This is truly one of the unique things near Seattle that you won’t find on many tour guides.

Locals all have stories about how the bike got there, but good luck getting a straight answer. Some say that the bike was chained to the tree by a young soldier before he headed off to war.

Other people say that the bike was intentionally grown through the middle of the tree.

The common thread is that no one put the bike there on purpose. Closer to the truth is the story about a boy who left their bike behind and over time, a tree just grew through it.

No matter what you believe, there the bike sits, in the middle of the tree. You’ll have to see it to believe it.

5. Lenin Does Fremont

One of the stranger socio-political objects in the city of Seattle has to be the 16-foot high statue of Vladimir Lenin. It was created by a Bulgarian sculptor who built it as an element of the Communist propaganda machine.

While working in Slovakia, a local Seattle resident named Lewis Carpenter found the statue ready to be destroyed. Feeling like it would be a waste of the sculptor’s work, he bought the statue and spent the cash to get it shipped. It took a lot of effort to get the statue in the country.

Carpenter, unfortunately, passed before the statue was ever erected in the US. thankfully his family made a goal of getting it up and now it stands in Fremont.

If you’re looking for unique things near Seattle and have a love for Communist history, you’ll love this oddity.

6. Karaoke at Rock Box

Are you in town with old friends or looking for a bonding experience with co-workers after a long week of a conference? One of the best ways to shake off inhibitions is to engage in the mutual embarrassment of karaoke.

At $4-$7 per hour, per person, it’s a heck of a deal for a memorable night of entertainment. Be sure to call ahead to make sure something is available.

If you’ve got a group of 35 or more, you can book the party room and make it an all-out wild night of showmanship with your group.

7. Ye Olde Curiosity Shop

Along the tourist-heavy strip of Seattle’s waterfront, you might not expect to find anything interesting at all. Lucky for you, there’s Ye Old Curiosity Shop.

It’s another novelty shop selling curious items and Seattle souvenirs. You’ll also find interesting items placed in the style of a museum.

There are narwhal tusks, totem poles, and a couple of mummies. The mummies, named Sylvester and Sylvia, were found in Central America.

They were well preserved, so well preserved that the University of Washington has run studies on them. Sylvester was preserved with a special solution. Whoever mummified him used an arsenic solution hoping that he would one day be discovered.

There’s a Long List of Unique Things Near Seattle!

If you’re a nature buff, you’re going to find all kinds of interesting things to do in the Seattle area. Whether you want to walk along the waterfront or hit the nearby Old Growth Forest, you’ll find no shortage of great sights.

If you’re still looking for unique things near Seattle, contact us for more tips.

One of the best things to do in Spokane is discovering spots that only locals seem to know and love. If ever there was such a spot it’s the Garland Theater, with it’s vintage vibe, second run movies and a bar that is steps from the concessions. But before we take a deeper look at the Garland, let’s look at a couple of other local treats.

Hidden Tricks of Spokane

Every community has their hidden tricks and gems. One of my favorites is the “secret dessert” at the Onion downtown. The hot fudge dipping sauce takes this delight over the top (Pssst… ask your server about the deep fried Oreos. They are a culinary treat)

Another local trick is that farthest Eastern window at Dicks Hamburgers is where you will find the fastest line.

If I mention more, I risk being run out of town. However, there is one piece of information that I can share without relocating my family. It is the Garland Theater and it’s a local treasure.

Read 5 Fun Things To Do In Spokane

The Garland Theater.

The Garland theater is a historic 40’s era single screen movie house located in central Spokane. The theater is a bookend to the historic and revamped Garland District. The theater show second run films but offers a top tier experience. They even have special event movies.

For me, seeing a film at the Garland is by far a more enjoyable experience than catching a flick at a modern theater. Sure the seats might recline at the Regal Theater at Northtown Mall, but the experience of taking my family to see the not so latest releases is probably akin to the experience my parents and grandparents had when they watched Dick Van Dyke dance across the screen.

How about another throwback, the price of the ticket. At just $5 a head I can afford to take my family to a movie. Heck, even the concessions are reasonably priced. For $17 you get a large refillable popcorn popcorn, candy and a large soda. For just $70, you can by an annual pass. With prices like that, I don’t need to sell my organs for the family to see all the new Star Wars movies.

A Beer & A Movie

Before Samuel L. Jackson was swinging light sabers or saving passengers from all those snakes on that Mother F plane. I remember him having a conversation with John Travolta about having a glass of beer in the theater (Pulp Fiction anyone?). That blew my 18 year old mind. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought that one day I would drink a beer in a theater while watching Thor clash with the forces of evil.

I’ve found that the beer in the theatre thing comes in handy when fulfilling parental duties by watching Pixar’s second latest film. Is it just me, or is alcohol sometimes the only way to get through kid-flicks? FYI, I don’t think there is enough beer to get me through Paddington 2. Just sayin’ (Opinions are not necessarily those of Clever Neighbor).

PBR in the cheap seats at the Garland Theater in Spokane, WA.

The Bon Bon Bar

Just of the The Garland Theater’s concession area is the Bon Bon. It’s a great little bar. They have specialty cocktails and the traditional trivia & Bingo nights. Don’t assume it’s just another bar though. It may be small, but it has a cool retro vibe. Wether you want a pre-show cocktail or a chills spot to enjoy, it gets two thumbs up from me. Super huge bonus, you can take your drink to the movie.

Host A Private Screening

In case you didn’t know, Spokane has been the setting for a number of films over the years, thank in no small part to North By Northwest which is located close to Downtown Spokane. Let’s say you just inherited a good sum of money and have always dreamed of producing a film starring your best friend and your dog. The Garland Theater is available for rent! They are glad to host a screening party for your film before it’s sent off to Cannes or Sundance.

Beyond screenings, they host corporate events, team building exercises, Holiday parties and more. Click here to learn more.

A Spokane Experience

Before you head to the show, recognize that this is a unique experience. I grew up going to a second run theater in my hometown Oxnard, (which is almost as nice as it sounds). Anyway, I don’t know how shaving 8 bucks off of a ticket changes the dynamics of the audience but it really does. You’ll see folks talking to each other up and down the aisles. If you go to a matinee you might even get a 1 year old serenading you for an hour and a half. That being said, it’s kind of awesome. The Garland Theater provides a sense of community that you don’t get at a modern theater.

The Garland Theater is not simply a movie experience, it’s a Spokane experience. Folks from all over the community come to meet up and enjoy a films and maybe a beverage or two. It’s a safe place to visit with your neighbors. It’s fun. Folks are there to have a good time. The minor distractions are more humorous than annoying.

All in all, this gem isn’t known too well or widely by outsiders, but to us locals it’s a treasure. So if you are looking for some things to do in Spokane this week or weekend, check out the Garland. It is a treat!

Parting Shots

If I had one complaint, the lights come on after the film a little too quickly. Weird? Not really. If I had a wish I’d ask Pixar to make a movie that doesn’t make me cry.

Manifesto Coffee Single Origin Whole Bean House Blends

Manifesto Coffee Satisfies Your Daily Caffeine Dose

Manifesto Coffee hit the ground running when their dynamic team opened doors in October 2016, emphasizing what’s important to many when it comes to coffee. This shop focuses on superbly roasted beans, and offers Fair-Trade, Organic, Single-Origin Coffee. The coffee has a rich full-bodied flavor that might have you going back for a second Americano. Before you get trapped by winter storms, stop by and pick up one of their original house blends. Hours of operations are 6 AM to 5 PM pm on weekdays and 8 AM to 5 PM on weekends. Manifesto Coffee is located on South 11th Street in Tacoma’s Hilltop Neighborhood

Meet the Masterminds

Manifesto Coffee is a casual coffee shop, co-owned by Israel Hickey and Jack Saffle. This pair has taken their combined coffee expertise and collaborated with a couple close counterparts to create their version of the corner coffee shop. Israel the Head Roaster, lets the beans speak for themselves. His skillful roasting brings out a rich aroma and full bodied flavor profile. I had a moment to discuss the details with Jack. He shared with me in all honesty how for him this local coffee joint embodies all things Tacoma. This is a place for Skaters, Dungeon and Dragons folk and the alternative locals. Not only is this a space to drink amazing coffee, but its a place to collaborate and share their love of Tacoma. With coffee at their core, it’s not hard to see why Manifesto Coffee is the next up-and-coming neighborhood attraction.

The Main Event, Single Origin Espresso

Establishing themselves in the Fair Trade Organic scene, Manifesto Coffee is available at Harbor Greens, the Tacoma Boys 6th Ave, Puyallup and Lakewood locations, Stadium Thriftway, and Dave’s Meat and Produce. Whats more, their variety of blends have unique flavor profiles which are highlighted in the charismatic names.

Sumatra Takengon has a truly decadent taste. This Single Origin blend has a sweet flavor profile that highlights strawberry, cinnamon, and hibiscus. Consequently the name take-n-gone showcases its popularity as this house original has flown off the shelves. Alternatively, Ethiopia Yirgacheffe hits more floral notes, embodying elderflower, honey and melon for a smooth taste. Indeed spice is not forgotten with the Mexico Chiapas. This spicy bright coffee has notes of cedar and tobacco. No doubt this coffee will transport drinkers somewhere warmer. Finally Nicaragua San Juan De Rio Coco has rich apricot, hazelnut notes. This cup of Joe goes perfectly with your favorite chocolate pastry. If you aren’t sure what caffeine hits the spot just ask your barista for a recommendation.

2 Ways to Enjoy

For most of us, coffee helps us to speak to other humans in the morning. The first way to try this new local coffee shop is to of course stop by and get caffeinated. Not everyone takes their coffee black. For this reason, Manifesto Coffee and 1022 have you covered. The syrups on the espresso bar are made from scratch by the craft cocktail professionals at 1022 on South J Street. They are coupled with seasonal, organic flavors that in my opinion are some of the best blended syrups around. Moreover, the second way to enjoy is to grab a bag of beans from your local grocer and perk up with a french press.Considering that you’re already in the neighborhood, go grab some java from these local experts. Tell them Clever Neighbor sent you and you seek caffeine!

Manifesto Coffee
Address: 1003 S 11th St, Tacoma, WA 98405
Phone: (360) 775-9834
Hours: 6AM–5PM