The Space Needle, Pike Place Market and music venues that hosted the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana and Pearl Jam are only a taste of what Washington's largest city has to offer. Music lovers, craft beer enthusiasts, activists and die-hard Grey's Anatomy fans will find plenty to do and learn a few things about Washington culture along the way.

Wine and Whiskey Tasting, anyone? We need to restock our supplies (a.k.a. future gifts) and will stop by some local distilleries. Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, Woodinville Whiskey Co., Bad Dog Distillery are all potential locations, based on the day and whose along for the ride. This could overlap with exploring Arlington and seeing Rebecca's parents.

Rebecca's hometown and where Matt is always fascinated by the extended pick-up trucks, building facades and "country charm", Arlington is full of "small town" experiences. People to see where Rebecca grew up and meet her parents are welcome for day trip before heading out to Friday Harbor in the San Juan Islands.

The San Juan Islands are a unique part of the Washington landscape. Ferry rides with whale sightings, picturesque towns, and grand water views are experiences worth planning.

Bellingham is a beautiful and eclectic combination of outdoor activities, water, art, music (see the line up for Downtown Sounds on 27 July). It's a place to plan activities around the area or adventures to Canada, Mount Baker, Victoria B.C. and the San Juan Islands.

A "local" mountain for people from Washington and Vancouver, B.C. Mount Baker is full of natural beauty. Hiking, biking and wine-tasting can all be found at the end of Mount Baker Highway and the area is great for one day or an overnight stay.

Summer is a great time in Bellingham to observe whales in their natural habit (from a respectful and marine advised distance). For those interested in seeing Oracas, Gray Whales and Dolphins, San Juan cruises offers daily cruises. Matt and Becca will decide between Mount Baker, local mountains and sea cruises based on people's interests.

Victoria B.C. is a favorite stop in the area.* It's a culinary and cultural center appreciated by people from all over the world and it's an easy day or overnight trip from Bellingham.

*Check Covid-19 entry requirements to Canada

We're skipping the traditional "Rehearsal Dinner" in favor of connecting with old friends, meeting some new ones, and to enjoy craft beer and local food fare at the Aslan Depot Barrels & Blending. Show up anytime after 18:00 / 6:00PM! (Cash and credit card accepted).

Six years and two days after our first date, we're hosting a party to celebrate having found each other with our families and friends at the lovely and eclectic Barnstar Events from 14:00 / 2:00 PM until 21:30 / 9:30 PM).

After party TBA in Bellingham.

Hosted by locals Karin and Keith, this is a "last call" before leaving for the next adventure (home address to be given out at the wedding).

For those staying one more night, there is still plenty to do with the local cruises, cycling, a walk around Fairhaven, and live music on Holly Street.

People will be flying home, driving towards the mountains or sailing off into the sunset.

M&B currently plan a day trip to Mount Baker or a last ocean cruise and will overnight in Arlington.

Motorcycle and car enthusiasts alike will enjoy the drive through waterfalls and winding roads. Weekenders note: Snoqualmie is Seattle's go to weekend hike location. Book hotels / campsites now if you want to stay locally - it's competitive!

Arlington is the home of Rebecca's parents; it can also be a stopover on the I-5 to break-up the journey south (and pick some blueberries), a way into or out of the North Cascades, or a place to shop at the Seattle Outlets.

*Sleeps up to 10 people. Call us if you need a bed.

Mount Rainier is the treasure of Washington State, and is a place for alpine, forest and wildflower exploration. Mount Saint Helens is also worth a tour for those interested in geology and the volcano's eruption in 1980 (we will be there 9-12 August). See Travel page for hotel and campsite recommendations. We've overbooked in case someone needs a room.

The Olympic Peninsula is huge and the National Park does not disappoint. Moody beaches, forests and lakes are great for camping and exploration.

Few people realize that on a single trip to Olympic National Park in Washington you can experience mountains, beaches, forests, and camping all three - without heading to other States (though Oregon and California are worth visits).

Oregon boasts some of the most beautiful coastlines in the country. Sandy and rocky beaches, rocky cliffs, seaside towns and breathtaking sunsets are a few of the sites you can find as you drive up and down the highway.

Famous for "blowing her top" in 1980, Mount. St. Helens remains an active volcano and is a place of caves, regeneration and exploration.

A great city that has an important role in the Pacific Northwest for its character, activism, food, craft beer and culture.

Nature, kite-surfing, concert venues and wine tasting are all options!

The Pacific Coast Highway, San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, Joshua Tree, Redwood National Forest are just a few of the stops. If you've never explored it, California might be worth a stop-over and a bit of time.