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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.

Artist & Craftsman St Helens Debut

Artist & Craftsman Store Front

A great addition to the down town area, Artist & Craftsman Supply in Downtown Tacoma is now open! Art lovers won’t have to make that commute to Seattle any longer to get the pro-artist supplies they need. Located on St Helens Ave, Artist & Craftsman Supply is open from 9am to 7pm Monday through Saturday and 10am to 6pm Sunday. These experts have everything painters, sculptors and crafters need.

A Space to Create Art

Artist & Craftsman Paper Selection

Opening their doors November 2016, Artist & Craftsman arrived with a reputation in the art community for quality professional art supplies. Their Seattle Location is known for it’s astounding inventory and size. However the Tacoma location has a more Historic feel. A flood of abstract rainbow colors fill the room along with decorative light features. The Artist & Craftsman team has done an amazing job of restoring the Wagner Motors Building without losing the integrity of its classic 1920’s design.

Although every artist has a speciality and Michael Rives, the Manager of Artist & Craftsman is there to help artist cultivate theirs. I spoke with Kat one of the friendly staff members as she was adjusting upcoming events on the store cork board. She explained that Artist & Craftsman is a place for artist to dive into their passions. Moreover Kat was adamant that if there was a specific tool or item an artist wanted and Artist & Craftsman didn’t carry it in store, they would be able to order it for their customers or help them find it. The friendly staff isn’t the only draw to this stellar art store. Artist & Craftsman also host events, and are beginning to organize classes for the 2017 year.

2 Must See Demos

Artist & Craftsman Spray Paint

You don’t need an excuse to visit Artist & Craftsman but this month there are two Free Demos hosted in store that are a must see. Mark your calendar for Saturday February 4th 1pm to 4pm for the Yupo Paper Demo. Yupo Paper is a type of polyurethane synthetic paper. This paper is actually 100% recyclable. Another feature is that Artist can manipulate their work with water. This awesome paper is amazing for creating watercolor type images, soft textures, and depth.

The second event this month is on Sunday February 12th at 1pm. Artist & Craftsman will be hosting Marabu and demonstrating new products. Celia Buchanan will be leading the demonstration.

There are many more events to come which are listed on the Artist & Craftsman Facebook page and website. Tacoma residents are fortunate to live in a city full of art. Let February be a month to begin creating, painting, crafting and framing. Let’s express ourselves and get inspired at Artist & Craftsman!

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

Donuts from a Drive Thru! I must have crashed and gone to heaven!

If you have a hankering for donuts in Tacoma, check out Pao’s Donuts and Coffee Shop in Tacoma’s West End (making the West Slope Historic). You don’t even have to leave the comfort of your car—they have a drive thru window! Bring cash though because credit cards are not welcome. However the inexpensive pricing will have you searching your seats for change (I speak from experience).

A fresh selection of Old Fashioned donuts in Tacoma at Pao’s Donuts and Coffee Shop

Pao’s Excels in its Simple Approach

I am impressed with the pricing, the simplicity and the excellence in their offerings. Eating at Pao’s has changed what I accept as a good donut. The owners have been there to serve me each time I go. They are quick let me know which donuts are fresh, and which are discounted day old donuts. I was hesitant in ordering an espresso from a donut shop, but I must say, my double tall latte was well made. Pao and his wife seem to take pride in their work, and the community has noticed . Pao’s was voted Best of the South Sound in 2016.

Pao’s was voted Best in the South Sound for 2016.

Family Business

The atmosphere may seem familiar to you. Pao’s is a former Dunkin Donuts. Pink donut boxes, stacked high behind the counter. Pictures of Pao’s children are on the walls, some with giant donuts. You get the feeling that Pao’s is not just a business—but a means to an end—a vision of what America can be and is.

Local To Tacoma

Pao’s is just off Highway 16 on 6^th avenue, on the way toward Titlow Beach, where grown men once wrestled octopi. Tacoma Community College is nearby as is the Tacoma Musical Playhouse. There are lots of things to do in Tacoma, but stopping here in a must!

Do you like musicals? Check out this 5 disk Boxset.

An assortment of syrups illuminated in Pao’s drive thru window, by the late day sun.

Don’t Forget The Cash!

Next time you’re cruising the streets, looking for some donuts in Tacoma, check out Pao’s Donuts and Coffee Shop. You won’t be disappointed–unless you forget your cash!

Bicycles, Helmets and Gear Oh My!

Tacoma’s waterfront is the premier bike path for a cruise. Old Town Bicycle is ready to get your bike that much needed tune up before Spring melts the Winter frost.

With three locations, Olympia on Capitol Way, Gig Harbor on Kimball Drive, and Tacoma’s McCarver St Location, Old Town Bicycle’s staff is ready to get you on the road.

Cycling Aspirations and Perspiration

Let’s be clear, I do not claim to be a cyclist. When I ride, it’s usually a pleasurable cruise down by the water. My beach cruiser is classic cream white with style, and of course she has a basket.

The only time I was semi-serious about cycling was for the annual Tour de Goldfish on Five Mile Drive. That race ended in a tag team Tandem Bicycle ascent to the finish.

READ: THINGS TO DO IN TACOMA: THE NARROWS BRIDGE

Get Tuned

If you are a cruiser like me, or a serious cyclist that needs the right gear for those long distance rides, Old Town Bicycle has you covered.

When I brought my beach cruiser in for a much needed tune up, I was greeted by several staff members who were ready to assist me. Alana described the different types of tune up’s the shop offered.

They cover everything from Standard to Deluxe tune ups, taking the time to clean, inspect, grease and adjust so my two wheeled transportation was ready once again to ride along the waterfront.

Gear Heads

The staff at Old Town Bicycle is friendly and knowledgeable. They were glad to discuss the importance of bike maintenance and the best ways to keep my bike in well working condition.

Helpful Hint: Giving your bike a bath, similar to washing your car keeps it in good condition. Washing prevents pebbles, sticks and nature from rusting chains or breaking gears.

We also discussed the right types of gear. Those funny shorts and Clip in shoes you see when a cyclist passes by in the bike lane are actually well worth the price for comfort and balance.

Old Town Bicycle has the right helmets, tires, water bottles and cycle gear you need to get out on the road feeling prepared.

Outdoor Adventures

Tacoma’s beauty is is better enjoyed outside. The bike path is a great way to do this. There are plenty of things to do in Tacoma on your two wheeled friend. There are tons of local trails and waterfront views to be enjoyed.

If you ever made a resolution to get active and healthy or trying a new sport, placing your feet to the pedals is a great solution

It’s never a bad time of year to get your bike tuned, especially if it hasn’t been done in a while.

Check out Old Town Bicycle’s Deluxe Tune Up Package! Be sure to tell them Clever Neighbor sent you!

Old Town Bicycle
Address: 3009 N McCarver St, Tacoma, WA 98403
Phone:(253) 573-9400
Hours: 10AM–6PM

Climb on at Edgeworks

When you think Rock Climbing our minds wander to gigantic boulders and cliffs with climbers hundreds of feet in the air. This image can be a bit intimidating. Indoor climbing has dramatically changed this traditional view of rock climbing to one with brightly colored hand and foot holds, auto-belays and one-on-one instruction. Located off 6th Avenue on North 9th Street, Edgeworks is hiding out and it’s absolutely the best climbing gym in Tacoma! Don’t be intimidated,the team at Edgeworks will have you suited up and bouldering in no time. They have all the rental equipment climbers need. Everything from climbing shoes, harnesses, ATC and chalk bags. Not to mention they have great hours, open seven days a week Monday – Friday 9 am to 10 pm, Saturday 10 am to 10 pm Sunday 10 am to 7 pm.

Local bouldering

Walking up to the front door of Edgeworks, it’s hard to imagine that inside the grey warehouse business complex there is 10,000 sq ft of climbing, top-out bouldering wall, six auto-belays (single person belay stations), weight room, an instructional climbing wall on the second floor and a yoga studio to boot. Edgeworks literally has it all. There are basic 101 level classes that teach beginners how to tie a figure eight, lock in their ATC’s and climb on. It doesn’t stop there. Once you fine tune those climbing skills indoors the team at Edgeworks takes top-roping and lead climbing outside! Don’t worry when the little ones come calling“Mom I want to climb too!”, Edgeworks has kids classes and camps available as well. Climbing is a family activity and helps get everyone active and exploring the Pacific Northwest.

Commercial Climbing Gyms

The climbing industry has grown tenfold in the past decade. The march continues with the help of heated warehouses and fancy climbing equipment such as Gri Gri’s and comfortable sport harnesses. Commercial indoor climbing is another way for people in the Northwest to stay dry in the winter months while maintaining their 5.11 B status. I began climbing at Edgeworks almost one year ago, January of 2016 and have never looked back. The instructors at the gym are patient, knowledgeable, friendly and fun. They take climbing seriously so we can monkey around and really push the limits. If you are looking to become an Outdoor Guide or just want to boulder with friends check out Edgeworks. Tell them Clever Neighbor sent you!

Game Day Doughnuts

Seahawks fans should be pleased by their options at Legendary Doughnuts. There is the Sherman, which is a raised ring doughnut topped with vanilla frosting and sprinkles of gresen and blue. The Wilson is very similar, but instead of sprinkles; it has sparkly blue and green sugar crystals. On Blue Friday and Game Day these doughnuts are in the shape of a football. Both of these doughnuts are in the “famous” class, alongside the Homer Simpson, Tinkerbell and Sex In The City doughnuts.

One step above the “famous” class is the “legendary” class, where sits a vanilla cake doughnut donning a blanket of vanilla-frosting and two blue and green chunks of bubble gum. If you haven’t yet guessed, this is known as the Pete Carroll (Learn why Seahawks Coach Pete Carroll is known for chewing gum)

Chandeliers and a 12th Man flag hang proudly in Tacoma’s 6th Ave. location.

Local Origins

Legendary Doughnuts opened in 2010 featuring their own cold press coffee and a bacon encrusted maple bar known as the Oprah (check out this recipe from Oprah.com). They became a hit in the South Sound and have since opened a number of new locations, to the delight of many a work place (click here to order a dozen doughnuts).

Legendary Doughnuts features "Fido Nuts" and "Pup Cannoli" for their four legged customers.

Legendary Doughnuts features “Fido Nuts” and “Fido Cannoli” for their four legged customers.

Doggy Doughnuts

Your pooch will be happy to join you. The “Fido Nuts” and “Pup Cannoli” look delicious. Thankfully there are other options to avert temptation, like the “doughsant” class of doughnuts–a ring of croissant dough, featuring a variety of topping options. For those counting calories Legendary Doughnuts offer smaller variations on many of their doughnuts. There are doughnut cakes and towers for those who are not.

A nine inch ring doughnut celebrating the Seattle Seahawks.

Nearest Location

Legendary Doughnuts is making doughnuts at their original Lakeland Hills location near Lake Tapps. They are in Tacoma on 6^th Ave., in Covington near L.A. Fitness (oh the irony), and have two new locations in Federal Way and Frederickson.

Tools To Make Your Own Doughnuts At Home:

Doughnut Dispenser

Doughnut Cutter

Cuisinart Deep Fryer

Top Pot Doughnuts Recipe Book

It would seem that Puyallup has a hidden gem of a restaurant in Ben Herreid’s Arista. A restaurant so intriguing, that restaurant owners rallied around it this week to say, “You will not close!”

Arista offers fresh pasta that is made in-house, and is a proponent of a “farm-to-table” approach. One such dish is their Pumpkin Ravioli, featuring locally sourced pumpkins and foraged Chanterelle mushrooms. They have a diverse selection of wine, including a chianti by the glass, and feature dessert from local bakeries.

Arista has 4.5 stars on Yelp, with gushing reviews. If you are looking for a spot to relax and a be served with food from the heart of a passionate, friendly chef, then find yourself in Arista in the near future, and let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Arista offers a Farm to Table approach and diverse selection of wine.

“The amazing community of Puyallup has reached out! In short we made a decision off of what appeared to be an amazing opportunity to open Roast House in Parkland which has brought on a huge financial burden due to an unforeseen situation. Due to that situation we made a premature emotional decision to close however we apologize for the premature decision to close today. I am passionate about my restaurant. This is my love. We ask you for your support as we open tomorrow and purely focus on doing what Puyallup has proven to us that they love and appreciate in Arista. We ask for your support…we will be open for dinner tomorrow. Please come support us tomorrow!!”

– Ben Herreid (Chef & Owner of Arista in Puyallup) from Arista’s Facebook page

Head Chef Ben Herreid with Bryan Reynolds of Anthem Coffee

Chef and Owner Ben Herreid (on the right) talks shop with Bryan Reynolds of Anthem Coffee.

Something To Consider:

Just across Pioneer Avenue is Anthem Coffee, where you can enjoy an espresso, beer or wine, before or after your meal.

Maybe take a walk through Pioneer Park, or peruse the books at the Puyallup Public Library before your meal.

Make Your Own Pasta at Home:

Sleek Design — Automated: Philips Pasta Maker

Italian Made — Inexpensive: Marcato Atlas Pasta Maker

The Legend of the Great Italian Tacoma Bakery Exists. And it’s called Dolce Si.

“Cake… nah, I will pass.” This is my normal response to most cakes. I’m just not a cake person, or so I’ve told myself. Well back the train up! OMG, did we ever stumble across a Tacoma bakery worth writing about. Not since I was in Europe have I experienced a cake quite like this.

“Where?” you say.

Tacoma’s own, Dolce Sí Sicilian Bakery and Cafe. This little Tacoma Bakery is located at Point Ruston (if you’ve not heard of Point Ruston, you have to visit this page) Dolce Sí is out of control good. It feels like you’re walking into a real Sicilian bakery. The colors, the smells, the food. Wow!

Yep, and it’s in Tacoma…. Oh Tacoma, I am so proud of you. Growing up to be such a wonderful little city (tear being shed).

Add this to the list of things to do in Tacoma!