<![CDATA[ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL PNW - Blog]]>Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:56:03 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Cottage Grove to California--              S. Oregon on I-5 and Hwy 199]]>Sat, 07 Feb 2026 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/cottage-grove-to-california-s-oregon-on-i-5-and-hwy-199 Originally published Oct 2020, I have added some content since then.
     I was on an adventure to connect with the Redwods (see https://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/redwoods-california ) and Crescent City ( https://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/crescent-city-its-coasts ) from Portland OR, so naturally I had the opportunity to journey through Southern Oregon:
Cottage Grove OR—128 miles south of Portland,
off I-5 (abt a 2 hr drive unless you catch traffic ills)
     Cottage Grove is the southern tip of the fertile Willamette Valley that prompted travel on the Oregon Trail, and pretty well peopled the Pacific Northwest—at least until there were gold discoveries.  Several times I’ve seen a sign about Applegate (one branch of the Oregon Trail) information at a Cottage Grove exit.  I had a chance to take that exit on my trip to visit the Redwoods and Crescent City.  Unfortunately, it was the back way in, and 6 miles from the city itself.  I suggest taking exit 174 straight on to Gateway Blvd and follow it until it meets Main St, then turn right onto Main Street.  The Veterans Park has the interpretive signs about the Applegate (Oregon) Trail.  It’s on W Main St and River Road.       As I wheeled around the Veterans Park and environs, I met a local who said that Cottage Grove area is for bike riding.  She also directed me to follow the paved walk from the Veterans Park (through the covered bridge) north behind the police station, to a cute little unnamed park with parking and a picnic table.  She suggested continuing east from there, but curbs became a problem.  One of several fantastic murals is in the little square at Main & 7th street, restrooms as well.
     But south of Veterans Park (across Main St) along River Road is Riverside Park. Continuing south along the picturesque Coast Fork Willamette River (and people fishing it) .2 mi further is Prospector Park, .4 mi from there is the Chambers Covered Railroad Bridge you can walk or roll through (manual wheelchairs might need a helper on the ramp). 
    There are more parks, free parking areas, a speedway http://www.visitcottagegrove.com/outdoor-recreation  and a state airport.  Hotels are handy, restaurants ready, and shopping convenient enough as you come off the freeway as well as in the historic part of town (though some of the older parts of town suffer from business booming near the freeway).  More recreational info at https://www.cgchamber.com/outdoor-recreation/ Here’s a 1 min video the city has done.   The two rivers mentioned are the Coast Fork Willamette and the Row River.
Update from Sept 2025 trip to the Southern Oregon Coast
Gettings Creek Rest Area Southbound--Creswell OR 97426; just north of Cottage Grove
     Oregon State Department of Transportation Rest Area, ​
​Safeway--1500 E Main St, Cottage Grove OR 97424
     A good place to stop for gas (price & ease of finding) & supplies when traveling to or from the Oregon Coast.
​Coiner Park--1319 E Main St, Cottage Grove OR 97424
     A family, group, and community friendly park . . . nice place to run & play, while traveling or staying.  Close to Safeway, gas, and fast food.
Major Parks in Cottage Grove https://www.cottagegrove.org/cd/page/parks    
If you have more time to spend in the area, nearby lakes offer more recreational opportunities:
Dorena Lake to the east—take Row River Rd along the north side of the lake to find Rat Creek Bridge, Row River Recreational Trail, Harms Park, and on to Dorena (further exploration left to the reader).  To drive along the south side of the lake, take Shoreline Dr/Government Road for Schwarz Park on the west end of the lake, Baker Bay Campground & Marina on the south side, Vaughn County Park and Bake Stewart Park on the south end of the lake, and further south is Dorena and beyond. Cottage Grove Lake to the south—take London Rd along the west side of the Lake, to Lakeside Park.  Cottage Grove Reservoir Rd, off London Rd, goes along the east side of the lake, to Shortridge Park, Pine Meadows Campground, a primitive campground, and Wilson Creek Park.Blue Mountain County Park, SE of Cottage Grove, is not associated with a lake, but offers hiking and picnicking in a beautiful setting.  For photos, description, and directions, see https://www.eugenecascadescoast.org/listing/blue-mountain-county-park/9572/
 
Gettings Creek Rest Area—just north of Cottage Grove OR
     If you don’t have time to stay over in or around Cottage Grove this trip, and just need to make a pit stop, this can be your spot.  I had time to check out one more stop as it was getting dark, at Gettings Creek Rest Area.  One of the two restroom buildings was open and accessible, and they had a room set aside for a disabled person and companion.  At least one covered and one uncovered picnic table was accessible and on pavement; a regular drinking fountain and a lowered one attempted to suit anyone’s needs.  An information gazebo had nothing about the Oregon Trail, but considerable tourist information.
Canyonville OR—200 mi south of Portland, 100 mi north of the OR/CA border, pop about 2000
     As I drove south on I-5, on a sudden I saw a sign about Applegate info, and took the exit to Canyonville.  A Google search and a call to the local Pioneer & Indian Museum furnished me with directions to Pioneer Park (E 5th St & Canyon Ave), where the highway department has built an attractive open structure to house excellent information about the Applegate arm of the Oregon Trail. 
     It’s a really inviting park for a picnic and play, and the fun annual Canyonville Pioneer Days the 3rd weekend of August (in ordinary years) “...an old‑fashioned, small‑town festival featuring a parade, live entertainment on stage, barbecues and pie auctions, cake walks and bingo, car shows, frog jumps, tugs of war, lawn mower race, a craft show, an antiques and collectibles show and dances.“  The park also has an amazing cross section of a grand old Douglas Fir (9 ft diameter, 142 years old when Columbus discovered America, and would build a 3 bedroom home).    
       It probably makes more sense to go to the museum first (exit 98, then turn west on SW 5th Street).  It’s free, but a donation is much appreciated.  The museum is a complex of several buildings.  Because of limited time I was only able to visit the main museum, as well as see the outdoor displays.  They have utilized every inch of the main museum in clever and pleasant ways.  The volunteer working there was so very nice and accommodating.  https://www.pioneerindianmuseum.org/p/homepage.html
     Canyonville City Hall has an information kiosk (250 N. Main St).  
​​     Stanton County Park has picnic tables, fire rings, pavilion, horseshoes, swimming, restroom, trails, fishing, boating, campground (tenting as well as complete RV amenities), showers.  Exit 99, then go east of the freeway. https://www.co.douglas.or.us/parks/view_park.asp?index=4&features&cnt  
​     Canyonville is home to 7 Feathers Casino resort http://sevenfeathers.com/
     South of Canyonville I passed over the 2020’ pass twice in 2020.
​Wolf Creek—20 miles north of Grants Pass, exit 76 off I-5 
     Wolf Creek is an historic village with the 136-year-old Wolf Creek Inn:  a welcome reprieve along the stage coach route.  You can still book a room there, as did Clark Gable and Jack London.  It's also an event venue you can book.  The following website includes videos  About the Applegate Trail depicted in the tiny triangle of a park in front of the Wolf Creek Inn, scroll down at ​Wolf Creek Park, Josephine Co Parks--picnic & play, camping, fee area 
9.5 min video pub 2015 Grants Pass to Canyonville
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgIa-gs3I8c&ab_channel=InterstateKyle
“We live in a world
that is full of beauty,
charm and adventure.
There is no end
​to the adventures
we can have 
if only we seek them
with our eyes open.”
―Jawaharial Nehru
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Applegate Trail Interpretive Center
exit 71 off I-5
     The Applegate Trail Interpretive Center, Sunny Valley OR, is just 14 miles north of Grants Pass.  It wasn’t open when I came through.  In ordinary years they have an annual reenactment (flyer would be on first site below).  In sight down the road is the covered bridge. 

Manzanita Rest Area
     Not far, literally up the road from Grants Pass is the Manzanita Rest Area. The grass was lush and green, mushrooms flourishing, oaks spreading their limbs for lovely shade and drops of acorns.  There were picnic tables (including accessible on a paved pad), paved paths, accessible restrooms (one building with really nice accessible restroom and another building with a disabled stall that is not wheelchair friendly).  Interesting historic markers, and informational signs about the Applegate (Oregon) Trail, all delighted me.

Grants Pass
     Grants Pass is not a small town anymore.  It’s a small city of about 40,000, with a lot to offer, and more in the offing.  On the way south you can take off I-5 at the exit that says 99 to 199 and go with the flow.  On my way north I took comfort in the easy-to-follow signs to I-5.  I saw historic downtown on the way down, and up and coming city life on the way up.  I was impressed by the way they are able to complement their historic heritage and yet provide prosperous prospects.  For excitement Roseburg Downs has horseracing, Hellgate Jetboat Excursions offers a number of options on the Rogue River, from 2 hours to 5 hours, some with brunch, lunch, or dinner https://hellgate.com/  I didn't have time to stop for photo ops, but here are some great resources if you want to plan a trip to the Grants Pass area.
Hwy 199
     From Grants Pass to the California border, Hwy 199 takes you through the dry forests and scrubland of Josephine county OR.  People in this county appreciate fire fighters, as they have seen no shortage of wildfires over the years.  From O'Brien OR the road climbs up to Collier Tunnel (2100’ Google says).  The OR/CA border is just north of that tunnel.  An agricultural checkpoint hopes to deter risk to California's agriculture from pandemics introduced via produce from other areas.  
     Here’s a good 12.5 min video of the ride from Grants Pass to Crescent City https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1nIJK1VVmAs&ab_channel=RobertMerz 
History buffs check out 
http://www.webtrail.com/history/index.shtml 
Kerbyville (or, just Kerby)
27 miles SW of Grants Pass on Hwy 199
     This is the only place I know you can buy golden cron.  They’re not ignorant rubes, nor prone to mistakes (as I would be in painting a big sign):  the advertisement is repeated on more than one sign.  Clever attention-getter (north end of town).  The other place in Kerby that caught my attention was their Museum.  It was closed, but the little log schoolhouse complete with bell, the Victorian home with a long low building reminiscent of a carriage house, and the sign about freedman crystals, all piqued my interest.  I saw a ramp that indicates at least part of the museum is accessible.  It’s right on the highway.  

Cave Junction OR—30 miles south of Grants Pass, Hwy 199
     Cave Junction is on the Illinois River (where its two tributaries meet), and just SW of town is the Illinois River Forks State Park with picnicking, disc golf, fishing, vault toilet, and a short walking trail. https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=71   
     On the map it looks like Cave Junction Jubilee Park, a couple blocks east of Hwy 199 on E. Watkins Street, has a nice playground, and a cool skate park. 
     Although it’s a small town of about 2000, because of the tourist trade, you can find Italian, Chinese, Gyros, DQ, sausage dogs, natural foods, Subway, Mexican, homestyle American, and a choice of coffee places to soothe your tummy's disgruntle.  If you’re in need of other services, among those offered are a laundromat, groceries, banks, churches, NAPA auto parts, RadioShack, etc.  
     Interesting history (gold discovery in the Illinois River) as well as info about the area in the links below.  The ironic name of the Illinois River is explained at last.
Oregon Caves
     Cave Junction is so named for the junction with Hwy 46, which provides a way to the Oregon Caves.  However, check the website below to find out closure status, and check Google Maps about road closures.  Oregon Caves is not accessible for several disabilities.
https://www.nps.gov/orca/index.htm includes a 5 min video
 
Great Cats World Park
     A couple miles south of Cave Junction is an 11 acre park of 17 species of exotic big cats, guided tours, demos, complimentary wheelchairs & strollers, group rates, field trips, traveling show, photo shoot opportunities, and events (Halloween & Easter Egg Hunt).  See their site and their facebook page about closures/re-openings.  Their website is fun to look at whether you can go in person or not.  
Rusk Ranch Nature Center
     For a little more gentle exploration, barely north of Great Cats World Park is the Rusk Ranch Nature Center.  “Located in the beautiful Illinois Valley of Southern Oregon, we offer kids and families an interactive learning environment to learn all about nature as well as recreational activities for everyone to enjoy!  Butterfly Pavilion, Hummingbird Garden, Nature Discovery Play, Volunteer Days, Workshops, Youth Programs, Internships.   Wildlife Preserve and Meadow available during events.”  http://ruskranchnaturecenter.org/

Rough and Ready—between Cave Junction and the California border with Oregon, Hwy 199
     "Rough and Ready" is a good name for the next several places you’ll pass going south on Hwy 199 toward Crescent City CA.  Always at the ready for the rough work of fighting forest fires are the smokejumpers.  Siskiyou Smokejumper Base Museum is 5 miles south of Cave Junction.        Rough and Ready Creek, where Rough and Ready Forest State Park (Botanical Wayside) offers a half mile accessible trail to a vista with one picnic table.  Don’t be misled by the word “forest” . . . it’s rather scrubby (scrub lands) with forests in the distance.  Those who want to hike further can, see      O’Brien OR--about 8 mi south of Cave Junction OR     https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/O%27Brien,_Oregon  the southernmost community 'til the Oregon border (5 miles) on Hwy 199.  Apparently populated by about 500 independent-minded folk.  I could not find the name of the little saphire blue lake between Waldo Rd and town along Highway 199.  From the map I would conjecture it's a small reservoir.  

And that's the reservoir of my knowledge aquired on the road and in internet mode, about Southern Oregon from Cottage Grove to California,
traveling I-5 and Hwy 199.
]]><![CDATA[Back To Bandon for the Cranberry Festival]]>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/back-to-bandon-for-the-cranberry-festival
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The Bandon Cranberry Festival—Old Town Bandon OR
     Coronation, Live Music, Parade, Car Show, Street Dance, Cranberry Eating Contest, Vendor Booths, Kids Activities, Petting Zoo, Food Court, Tournament, Bake Sale, Art Show . . .Photos below from 2025:
1. Parade
2. Vendors and activities downtown
3. Bandon History Museum
4. Quilt Show & Bake Sale
5. A few Murals and Some Bandon Businesses
6. Activity Books, maps, brochures
7. Trip home, including gas price comparisons
A small town Parade at length--Old Town Bandon OR
Vendors and activities downtown
Kids' Corner
Bandon History Museum--270 Fillmore Ave SE, Bandon OR 97411; Hwy 101 & Fillmore
Brochures from the Bandon Historical Society, available at the Museum
Healthy Historic Hikes around Bandon
Quilt Show & Bake Sale
Quilt Show:  Bandon Oddfellows No 133--88184 Hwy 42, Bandon OR 97411 . . . photos courtesy Sally Jackson
     See also Forget Me Knots quilt shop https://www.forget-me-knots.net/ (used their photo of the shop)
     and Sew Crafty https://www.facebook.com/SewCraftyByLeeAnn/ 
Bake Sale:  VFW Post 3440--55352 Bates Rd, Bandon OR 97411​ . . . we got there late, nearly all sold out
Bandon, OR      I've traveled to or through Bandon several times . . .
North Bend to Brookings--the Southern Oregon Coast (scroll down)Reedsport OR and Up & Down the Coast (get to the bottom)Florence to Port Orford, Dune Buggies and Bandon-by-the-Sea; the Southern OR CoastLighthouses of the PNW includes the Coquille Lighthouse in Bandon OR
​Bandon Card & Gift Shoppe--265 2nd St SE, Bandon OR 97411
​     Cool stuff for tourists and older grandkids.
​The Toy Room--295 2nd St SE, Bandon OR 97411
​     Lots of cool stuff for younger grandkids.
Cran-Sol-Fest member market--50161 US-101, Bandon OR (photos mostly courtesy Sally Jackson)
     Bandon has an annual summer Solstice event in June, and the annual Cranberry festival in Sept.
​Misty Meadows Jams--48053 US-101, south of Bandon OR 97411, with a honey stand, lots of flavors
Bandon Beach photos by Brett Schott, and brochures for Bandon Beach Riding Stables
Interesting Bandon Cemetery Info
The Bandon Light--Sept 2025
Activity books, map, brochures
Headed for Home--including gas price comparisons
​     Though gas prices won't necessarily be the same, the relative prices would be similar.
]]><![CDATA[Veterans Day at Ft Vancouver & Pearson Field, Vancouver WA]]>Thu, 27 Nov 2025 02:34:53 GMThttps://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/veterans-day-at-ft-vancouver-pearson-field-vancouver-wa
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     More about Fort Vancouver and Pearson Field, June 2016 through the 200th  yr commemoration Aug 2025 and the Christmas event in 2025, including other various events through the years:
     I've wanted to attend the Veterans Day parade at Fort Vancouver for many years, but November weather isn't always conducive, especially when your lower limbs are so susceptible to the cold.  But in 2025 it wasn't rainy, and temps were in 50s, so I dressed warm as I could, and went.  How glad I am!  
     Entrants came from both Washington and Oregon, some from fairly far away.  I was happy to see so many scouting youth honoring our Veterans, along with the rest of us.   There were 2 or 3 announcer tents, but it was difficult to make out what they said for every entry.  
​     I wish they had published the parade route; I would have parked in the nice new flat parking lot near the reconstructed Fort, with more and better handicapped parking.  They published and marked a handicapped parking lot, but it was woefully inadequate:  not nearly enough spaces, and none with room to deploy my van ramp. 
The Parade
The Veterans Day event continued at Pearson Field
Indoor booths for many services offered veterans at the Veterans Day Event at Fort Vancouver-Pearson Field, Vancouver WA
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US flag, WA state flag, POW/MIA, US Army (surprisingly, white), Marines, Navy, Air Force, Space Force (black), Coast Guard (also white), Merchant Marines, Gold Star service flag (for those who were killed)--photo taken after the crowds were mostly dispersed. Note the plane in the sky between the WA state flag and the POW/MIA flag.
Pearson Field 
A few fotos of Fort Vancouver (
     The reconstructed Fort was closed due to lack of funding through a government shutdown.
Clark County Veterans War Memorial--McClellan Rd & Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver WA
     Though this was Veterans Day, not Memorial Day, surely we can celebrate our fallen heroes as well.
]]><![CDATA[Hood River Harvest Festival via the CAT]]>Mon, 20 Oct 2025 23:26:16 GMThttps://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/hood-river-harvest-festival-via-the-cat
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Historic Columbia River Highway map brochure, Troutdale OR to The Dalles with waterfalls, Mt Hood, and more
     I caught the CAT (Columbia Area Transit) at Multnomah Falls due to complications with catching it in Troutdale OR--both eastbound and westbound stops are accessible, but on opposite sides of I-84.  There was no way for me to get back to my vehicle.  Hopefully they'll be able to address that little issue.
     You can also catch it at Gateway Transit Center, Portland OR, but I had a couple concerns: the lengthier day's travel, and leaving my vehicle there all day as it would be dark when I returned.
     Catching the CAT at Multnomah Falls gave me a chance to get some nice photos of the Falls.  Since it was Fall, there was more chance of finding parking.  Warning signs about leaving valuables in your vehicle are no doubt especially crucial during the height of tourist season.  Most people can be trusted, but there are opportunists in every tourist stop, no matter where you go in the world.
     There are definite advantages to riding the CAT--someone else does the driving, and you don't have to worry about the expense of and finding parking.  By buying a yearly pass, you can travel the Gorge pretty cheaply, see and do more for your money, and not have to try to do and see everything in one day. 
​     I thought it would be a great chance to get photos along the way, since I wouldn't be driving.  It's a little challenging to get good pictures while speeding by, and the bus is not a super-smooth ride.  But I wanted to give some idea of the beauty of the Gorge.
     The CAT stops in downtown Cascade Locks, however, as I didn't get off the bus, I couldn't get good photos.  Multnomah Falls, Cascade Locks, and some of Hood River (including the WAAM) are included in my 2020 post of the exits off I-84. ​      I'll mention here how kind and caring the CAT drivers I experienced were . . . for instance, on the way home there was a dad who needed to drop off his little girl in Cascade Locks on his way to Portland.  But the mom wasn't there to meet the bus.  The dad was frantic, and finally thought he'd have to take his daughter with him on to Portland.  He called the mom and found out she was stuck behind a truck, but nearly there.  The CAT driver waited without getting upset, nor did any of the passengers get upset.  We all know that sometimes things happen, and it's good that there are good people in the world who help and care.
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https://visithoodriver.com/ upcoming events, click a link to get the Visitor Guide
Hood River OR
     Dawn, working with the The Columbia Gorge Tourism Alliance, had contacted me about creating a post featureing travel to Hood River via the CAT, and Fall 2025 seemed like good timing, especially with the Hood River Harvest Festival the very weekend I had been planning to go.  As this was my first experience riding the CAT, she arranged for Emily (at Columbia Gorge Tourism Alliance)  to meet me at the CAT station in Hood River, and I was so very glad, as I had not realized I would need to transfer to another bus in the system to get around Hood River itself (and get to the Harvest Festival).
     CAT Transfer Station--224 Wasco Loop Rd, Hood River OR; transfer to or from the Hood River route
     The CAT station is very close to Walmart--2700 Wasco St, Hood River OR 97031
     It's quite a little circuitous ride around Hood River to get to the site of the Harvest Festival (Hood River Event Site--Portway Ave & N. !st St, Hood River OR), and the streets are not all broad ways, but I noticed plenty of interesting architecture, the library, and the hospital along the way.  The route lists stops at:  Walmart, Safeway, Rite Aid, the Aquatic Center, Rosauers, Waucoma Ctr (historically a huge cold storage building for fruit, developed into an office building), and a couple other stops.  I didn't see a way to signal the driver, it appeared that you just let him know where you want to get off.  I would suggest checking with CAT to find out which stops are handicapped accessible.  From the event site it's not a long way back to the transfer station so as to catch the CAT home.  
Hood River Harvest Festival--2025
     Dawn arranged to have a ticket to the Hood River Harvest Festival waiting for me at admissions.  That was nice, though I think for seniors it was only $5/person.  I had worried about rain forecast that day, and temps in the 50s.  But then the rain left a clearing during the hours I'd be there, and the temps were in the 60s.  I dressed warmly, took an umbrella, and I saw that the event provided tents for vendors, and visitors watching the stage show and such.  It was a feast for the festival goer, but be prepared . . . I had a hard time finding anything for under $10.  That seemed the minimum.
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A whole line-up of temptations . . . between crowds at the 2025 Hood River Harvest Festival at Hood River Event Site--Portway Ave & N. !st St, Hood River OR
Various vendors came in trucks, little tents, and big ones . . .
 Return journey--Hood River to Multnomah Falls, I-84 along the Columbia River
     My phone wasn't recording locations properly, but here's what I could catch on the way back.
Hood River (OR) City & County map
     Although these images are not clearly legible on this post, they give an idea what the map shows.  I got the map for free at the Harvest Festival booth, but I'm sure they can be obtained from the City, the Visitor Center, or ordered from them online.
Hood River County
​Columbia River Gorge Visitor Guide--2025-26, sample pages
     I've pictured a sidebar of annual events, but it's well worth perusing the 6 pages of 2025 events listed by month, which no doubt gives an idea of when to watch for things you may be interested in planning to attend next year.  Looks like they have done a good job of listing addresses, contact numbers, and websites to find out more.  You can order the Visitor Guide at 
]]><![CDATA[Madras & Mt Jefferson]]>Thu, 25 Sep 2025 05:56:04 GMThttps://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/madras-mt-jefferson
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Madras OR—a little over 2 hours SE of Portland OR, Hwy 26 (east side of Mt Hood & the Cascades)
     Previous trips to the east side of the Cascade Mtns I hadn't the time I wanted to spend in the Madras area, and missed the Warm Springs Museum, so that was my goal this trip at end of summer 2025.  I had hoped by Sept Mt Jefferson would have new snow, but no, it was still summer up there.  I was very disappointed about that, until I saw the great views of the mountain in the smoky sunset.
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Brochure for The Museum at Warm Springs--2189 Highway 26, Warm Springs OR
The Museum at Warm Springs--2189 Highway 26, Warm Springs OR, across from Indian Head Casino
     The price of admission is quite reasonable.  There's a gift shop with things from Pendleton Woolen Mills, artists, jewelry and such, other tourist gifts and items.  Great film in the theater, great displays in the main exhibit hall, plus there's an interesting exhibit room with natives in rodeos and other displays.  Here are a few pictures I hope will tantalize, but I intend to post more when I publish "Native Americans of the PNW".
Culver OR--about 9 mi SW of Madras OR
     This pretty tiny town has a great park with family & community friendly amenities and events.  The town has visitor conveniences such as restaurants and recreational supplies.  Great views of Mt. Jefferson.
The Cove Palisades State Park—about 3 mi NW of Culver OR
​     I required the Google Gal to direct me to Cove Palisades from Culver.
Crooked River Campground offering RV & tent camping, trash, recycling, and RV dumping
The road down to the marina, day use area, and beyond
Cove Palisades Resort and Marina--5700 SW Marina Dr, NW of Culver OR 97734
Crooked River Day Use Area--5700 SW Marina Dr, near Culver OR 97734
Madras OR—a little over 2 hours SE of Portland OR, Hwy 26 (east side of Mt Hood & the Cascades)
​     Hwy 26 splits just south of Sonic Drive-in, into 4th St southbound and 5th St northbound.  At the south end the split is at Madras Truck Stop & Cafe.
Sahalee Park--7th & C streets, Madras OR
On the way to Culver OR and Cove Palisades State Park
4th St = southbound Hwy 26 between Sonic Drive-in at 222 NW 4th St, Madras, and Madras Truck Stop & Cafe at ​992 US-97, Madras, OR 97741
5th St = northbound Hwy 26 through downtown
Historic Jefferson County Courthouse & Jail—34 SE D St, Madras OR (NW corner 6th & D Streets) Jefferson County Historical Society --164 SE D St, Madras, OR 97741 (SE 8th & D Streets) Sahalee Park--SE 7th & C St, Madras OR 97741 Open Space park--7th to 9th St 
     bike path, picnic tables The Inn at Cross Keys--66 NW Cedar St, Madras, OR 977411; just off Hwy 26
     Across from Safeway, next to The Bunkhouse The Bunk House at Cross Keys--706 Bunkhouse Rd, Madras, OR 9774
     Take NW Cedar St just off Hwy 26, across from Safeway. Erickson Aircraft Collection— 2408 NW Berg Drive, Madras OR 97741
On my way home I stopped for gas at Safeway, cheaper than anywhere along the way, as well as at home.
Madras Airport area, off Hwy 26, aka NW Warm Springs Hwy
​Plateau Travel Plaza, Sinclair gas & Madras Airport & Industrial Park--NW Cherry Lane, Madras OR
​Jefferson County World War II Veterans War Memorial--2028 NW Airport Way, Madras OR 97741
Erickson Aircraft Collection--2408 NW Berg Dr, Madras OR 97741 (within Madras Airport)
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Mt Jefferson from near the Madras OR airport, when smoky haze made a beautiful sunset
]]><![CDATA[Goldendale to Prosser WA, with Mt Adams, Toppenish, Granger, & Sunnyside]]>Wed, 27 Aug 2025 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/goldendale-to-prosser-wa-with-toppenish-granger-sunnysideGoldendale WA
     Pop 3400, Klickitat county. Just up the hill from Maryhill—abt 12 mi/20 min  (for more about Maryhill, see links below)
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Mural celebrating the observatory--at Main & Columbus, Goldendale WA
Downtown Goldendale
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Mural of Mt Adams, Columbus Ave south of Main St, Goldendale WA, across from the Observatory mural
The Presby Mansion museum--411 N Grant Ave, Goldendale WA 98620 (Grant & Broadway)
Klickitat County Courthouse--205 S. Columbia Ave, Goldendale WA
World War II memorial park--213 E Burgen St, Goldendale WA 98620
Mt Adams bus system
Ekone Park—N Wilbur Ave, Goldendale WA
Aquatic Center--401 N King Ave, Goldendale WA 98620
Goldendale Observatory State Park--1602 Observatory Dr, Goldendale WA 98620
     I had wanted to come to this observatory for years, but before I could get here, it seems like they were renovating, and then COVID happened.  I often watched videos done by the staff in the meantime.  And, at last I made it (Aug 2022)!  I couldn't climb up the ladder to see through the telescope, but I still really enjoyed all I saw and learned.
IOOF Mountainview Cemetery—North Columbus Ave, Goldendale WA
The Dirty Cowgirl restaurant--604 S Columbus Ave, Goldendale WA 98620
     Don't try the handicapped parking onsite.  Additional parking on the flat (but dirt/gravel) at Brooks St between Columbus & Grant.  I decided to be bold and try the PB & Bacon burger.  Not my taste.  But the peach cobbler a la mode was delicious.  Friendly staff.
Ponderosa Motel--775 E Broadway St, Goldendale WA 98620
     This motel would likely be good for persons intending to stay in the area for a few or several days.  My room had 2 bedrooms, and the kind of amenities useful for staying awhile, such as a kitchen area.  The complimentary breakfast was served in a separate building, with rather limited seating, but a staff member brought my plate to my room for me.  It's always difficult to choose a hotel without seeing it first, and I have learned over the years that especially motels and older hotels are not very accessible for a person in a wheelchair.  This motel was just down the street from the Chamber of Commerce.
Just off Hwy 97 at Hwy 142, aka Broadway--same street, not far from the Ponderosa Motel
Quality Inn etc, Simcoe Dr exit off Hwy 97
St John's Bakery--near Brooks Memorial State Park, north of Goldendale WA on Hwy 97
     Greek Pastry, coffee & gifts, 
Brooks Memorial State Park—2465 US-97 (both sides of Hwy 97), north of Goldendale WA 98620--just north of St John's Monastery & Bakery; quarter of an hour NE of Goldendale
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Brooks Memorial State Park--Hwy 97, north of Goldendale WA
Satus Creek along Hwy 97 through the Simcoe Mtns between Goldendale and Toppenish WA
     From Goldendale, “cross the Simcoe Mountains via Satus Pass, located 3,107 feet (947 m) above sea level.
US 97 then traverses part of the Yakama Indian Reservation with shrub–steppe land that lies between the Simcoe Mountains and Toppenish Ridge. After crossing the latter, the highway descends into the Yakima Valley, passing through farmland and vineyards. US 97 then turns northwest at a junction with SR 22 in Toppenish and travels through Wapato before leaving the Yakima Indian Reservation and merging with I-82 and US 12 at Union Gap.” https://sites.google.com/view/historichighwaysofthewest/other-highways/us-97/us-97-washington
     A few miles north of the Tomith Rd. bridge across Satus Creek (at the border of Klickitat & Yakima counties, 28 mi south of Toppenish WA), Google Maps shows a swimming hole called The Cliffs, on the west side of Hwy 97 (not pictued below).
Yakima Valley Travel Guide--sample pages
Toppenish WA—at the intersection of Hwy 97 and Hwy 22 a bit south & parallel to Hwy 82 (aka Hwy 12)
     Pop abt 9000, within the Yakima Indian Rservation, more than 75 murals.  
Toppenish National Wildlife Refuge Mt Adams Country Club--1250 Rocky Ford Rd, Toppenish WA 98948
Yakima Nation Cultural Center--100 Spiel-yi Loop, Toppenish, WA 98948
$6; most days 8:30am to 4:30pm, check site for holidays & weather closures
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Old Timers Plaza, Toppenish WA
Granger WA
     Pop 3600, Yakima county, founded 1902. 
Hisey Park--505 Main St, Granger WA 98932, and Granger Public Access Yakima River Boat Ramp
​     Minimal accommodations at the Boat Ramp, but required a Discover Pass.  Photos taken in 2024.
Bell Memorial Park--Main St between A St & Bridge St, Granger WA; next to the fire station--499 Main St
     Just down the street from Hisey Park.
Granger City Park--between Main & A streets, and 2nd & 3rd streets, Granger WA
Veterans Memorial--119 Main St, Granger  WA 98932, diagonally from the City Park
​     Photos from 2022.
Granger City Hall & Municipal Court--102 Main St, Granger WA 98932; with fountain
KDNA radio 91.9 FM--121 Sunnyside Ave, near City HallGranger Museum—223 2nd Ave., Granger WA 98932; next to KDNA radio (grand opening Aug 2024)      Photos from 2022.
Granger Library/Yakima Valley Libraries--508 Sunnyside Ave, Granger WA 98932      Photos from 2022.  Signs about the projected future museum a bit confusing . . . the museum was built as above, next to the KDNA radio station.
​Bailey Ave entrance to Granger WA--off Hwy 223 near its junction with Hwy 12
     Photos taken in 2022.
Granger 9-11 Memorial--Bailey Ave & Hwy 223, next to the Granger Travel Plaza
Granger Travel Plaza--1221 Bailey Ave, Granger WA 98932
Sunnyside WA
     Pop 16,000, Yakima county.  I became acquainted with Sunnyside in May of 2022 when I was looking for a Cinco de Mayo celebration, and this was the closest one I could find!  (See 3rd link below, scroll down to Hispanic/Latino Holidays)  Of course, I had to go back to explore more.  
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Welcome to Sunnyside, map with info on the back; across from Jack in the Box--100 W South Hill Rd, Sunnyside WA 98944
Sunnyside South Hill Park, 1521 S 1st St, Sunnyside WA 98944
Sunnyside Museum--704 S 4th St, Sunnyside WA 98944; Grant & 4th
 Sunnyside Central Park--327 E Edison Ave, Sunnyside WA 98944
and Holy Trinity Episcopal Church--327 E Edison Ave, Sunnyside WA 98944
"Morning Chores"--5th & Edison between Central Park & Centennial Park, Sunnyside WA
"Pioneer survival depended on every member of the family taking part in life-sustaining responsibilities.  Children's chores were to slop hogs, feed chickens, gather eggs, take care of a vegetable garden, and milk the cow."  This statue depicts a 12 year old girl.  Often the cow was left free to graze, her bell sounding her whereabouts.  Now modern dairies surround Sunnyside.  The first commercial dairy in the area was Mountainview Creamery, est. 1901.  Carnation milk and Darigold came along later.  
Centennial Square--525 E Edison Ave, Sunnyside WA 98944
     "Centennial Square, located in the heart of downtown Sunnyside, is a beautiful park with a large bandstand, manicured lawn, trees, paved walkway and handicap accessible restrooms. Many community events are held in this very central location."  The bronze statue is of H. Lloyd Miller, an agricultural pioneer of the Yakima Valley, inscribed above it is USR 1937, whatever that means.
Downtown Sunnyside
​     My main focus the Cinco de Mayo celebration in 2022, maybe not as many photos of the town itself.
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Rainbow over Fiesta Foods, Yakima Valley Hwy & E Edison Ave, Sunnyside WA
Grandview WA—midway between Yakima & Kennewick (38 mi from each)
     Pop 11,000, Yakima county. I didn't have much chance to explore Grandview, but saw a nice park.
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Pavilion in the rose garden, Palacios Parkway, Grandview WA
Prosser WA—Hwy 82, on the Yakima River, 80 mi/abt 1.5 hrs from Goldendale
​     (1/2 hr W of Richland WA)
     Pop 6000, county seat of Benton County.  I came out to Prosser for States Day, so stayed overnight the night before.  I got there in time to get oriented a bit and take a few pics before the crowds.  It was about 100 degrees that day, but as I was so worried about sitting in that heat for hours to watch the parade, and all, that next day was overcast and very pleasant.  
City of Prosser public parking, visitor center, Chamber of Commerce—1230 Bennett Ave, Prosser WA 99350
     Fun little plaza, the old depot, with a nice handy handicapped parking spot. Prosser Annual Events—(including States Day:  1 Sept 2025; Fly-In Aug 29-Sept 1, 2025) Tour Prosser brochure & map
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Prosser mural on the side of MnE Boutique--701 6th St, Prosser, WA 99350; from Meade Ave-
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On the way into town . . .
     I was really concerned about finding a suitable place to park to see the parade, but found the Visitor parking at the Chamber of Commerce at 6th St and Bennett Ave was great.  Close, flat, has a handicapped spot.  
Prosser States Day parade 2024--slide show.  Just plain hometown fun; heroes, interest, antique autos, nearby communities, dance and marching groups, music, and dancing horses!  I loved it.  Loved the lady next to me willing to explain the history and meaning of States Day. 
     After the parade, there was food and fun, and a stage show at City Park--1301 Sommers Ave (7th & Sommers), Prosser WA 99350.  I went there early to get photos before all the crowds.  
​City Parks Prosser Museum--in City Park.  Check for days and hours.
States Days at Home
50 Cities of the USA by Gabrielle Balkan; 112 pages
     Related to the states are the major cities of those states.  Contents, labeled maps, key facts, itineraries (including foods and places to eat), things to spot throughout the book, brief facts on 8 extra cities, index.  Another title from "the same team" is The 50 States.
Bickleton WA
     Pop 100, Klickitat county, est 1879.  Bickleton boasts a carousel and being the “Bluebird Capital of the World.”  It might make an interesting loop back to Portland from Prosser.  It has an annual picnic and rodeo, and the historic Bluebird Inn tavern.
Where in the heck is Bickleton?
From Prosser travel west to Mabton via WA Hwy 22, abt 45 min/40 mi
Bickleton to Goldendale is about 50 min/37 mi
Bickleton to Portland OR via Hwy 14 is about 2.5 hours/150 mi Bickleton Community Day the end of August
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Posted for 2024 Bickleton Community Day
]]><![CDATA[Hawaii in the PNW]]>Sun, 24 Aug 2025 03:35:29 GMThttps://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/hawaii-in-the-pnw
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Homemade Luau--kalua pork & rice with marinated cucumber slices from Hula Boy, Reser's coleslaw, Hawaiian roll from the grocery store, pineapple mango salad 'n coconut, banana, white chocolate macadamia nut cookies, my own punch mix
4 Days of Aloha--the annual Hawaiian Festival at Esther Short Park, Vancouver WA (and beyond)      After postponement due to COVID restrictions, I was anxious to get back to this beloved and popular event in July of 2022.  I had attended in other years (when it was still free), but that was before I started this Travel site, so I was determined to get more and better photos.  Unfortunately, I wasn't in the best spot for the performances, so there's a distracting railing on the steps up to the stage (and there was a guy who felt entitled to block the view of others for the sake of his own photography) .  But the performers were wonderful.
The Dancers
The Food
A Few of the Various Vendors, 1st Aid Tent (plenty of porta potties, not shown below)
History of Hawaiians in the PNW
Kanaka Timeline—Hawaii to the Pacific NorthWest
(Salt Springs Island, BC—between Vancouver Island and mainland BC) "The Onedin Line" series is the saga of fictional James Onedin, developer of a Liverpool shipping line from 1860 onward.  It includes snatches of sea shanties, including “John Kanaka” (S5 E9); more renditions:British Exploration in the Pacific & PNW
Arrival of Hawaiians in the Pacific NorthwestHawaiians in the Fur Trade of North-West America, 1785-1820 ​ How Indigenous Hawaiians Helped Build the Pacific Northwest Economy ​Leaving Paradise: Indigenous Hawaiians in the Pacific Northwest, 1787–1898 – UH Press Little Hawaii:  The history of Hawaiians in Pacific Canada Aloha, Oregon!  Hawaiians in Northwest History
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Sea Routes of the Fur Trade map at Fort Vancouver WA
Hawaiians at Fort Vancouver--Vancouver WA
     I attended the Fort Vancouver 200th year commemoration on 16 August 2025, and that was one of 2 events that day that precipitated this post.  Of course I knew beforehand that Hawaiians were employed by Hudson's Bay Company at Fort Vancouver, but the power of the combination of events gave me the impetus to find a way to share about Hawaii, though Hawaii's not in the North Pacific.  For more about that Bicentennial event, get to the bottom of  A great 30 min video done by OPB "Fort Vancouver" also talks about Hawaiians at the Fort
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A coloring page in the children's section of the Visitor Center. Around the Fort were cultivated grain fields. Note Mt. Hood beyond, in full view of the Fort.
​Find more specifically about Hawaiians at Fort Vancouver:
​Who lives in your community?
     “A diverse workforce fueled the Hudson’s Bay Company’s operations at Fort Vancouver.  Only a handful of people lived inside the walls of the fort, while several hundred employees and their families lived outside the stockade walls in the Village.  Relationships formed in this diverse fur trade community across ethnic, religious, and linguistic lines.  Your spouse, your co-workers and your neighbors could be from opposite sides of the world! 
     “Nearly 30 groups of American Indians from across the northern part of the continent were represented at Fort Vancouver.  Over one third of the men working here were Hawaiian, while other residents of the Village were French Canadian, Scottish, Irish, English, American and Portuguese.  Most men married indigenous women, creating generations of people who were Métis—of mixed European and Native heritage—adding to the already diverse community in the Village.” from an interpretive sign at Fort Vancouver, Vancouver WA
A little Luau event the same day I went to the Fort Vancouver 200th year commemoration
     Lani (Lara) Miller, one of the performers below, is a descendant of Naukane (John Coxe)--of Ali’I  royalty--sent by King Kamehameha to Fort Vancouver (menitioned above under Fort Vancouver).  The performers were so fun, it was obvious how they loved their Hawaiian culture and music.  I forgot to take pics of all the food 'til it was nearly gone.  There was teriyaki chicken, pulled pork, yams, fruit salad, apple crisp, beside those shown below.  And drinks.
Hawaiian Holidays at Home
Hula Boy Charbroil--11820 NE Fourth Plain Blvd Ste G, Orchards WA 98682
Hawaiian Style Grill--5000 E 4th Plain Blvd, Vancouver WA 98661
     I took take-away.  Photos of their food under Hawaiian Holidays at Home above.
Oceans, Islands, Volcanoes, Songs, Stories & Such
 "I Lava You" from Pixar Studios OFFICIAL Somewhere over the Rainbow - Israel "IZ" Kamakawiwoʻole Hawaiian flowers (including canna lilies)
Bringing Hawaii Home
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On the way home from 2 weeks' vacation in Japan Oct 2025, my daughter had a layover in Hawaii. She brought me these pins to addd to my US map wall hanging we collect pins for--the Hawaiian flag, Waimea Valley (Ho'okipa Ambassador), Waimea Valley peacock (North O'ahu, Hawaii), pineapple with Hawaiian islands, rainbow over Hawaii.
     Below are some photos and memorabilia from a family album . . . though the photos are from a long time ago, maybe they still whet the appetite.  I've watched a lot of the old original "Hawaii 5-0" lately, and then there's the old "Magnum PI" with Tom Selleck (both streamed free with ads on Tubi).  I'm sure you could likewise find old Elvis movies set in Hawaii.
Films & TV shows set in Hawaii Hawaiian Culture, Visiting Hawaii Honolulu Museum of Art had an exhibit: Fashioning Aloha, summer of 2024 Waiakea Resort Village--later developed into condos The Royal Lahaina Resort, Kaanapali, Maui HI Whaler’s Village Maui Pineapple Tour | Pineapple Farm Tours in Maui, HI Dole Plantation - Hawaii’s Complete Pineapple Experience TOUR PACKAGES - Dole Plantation 8 Best Pineapple Farm Tours in Oahu 🍍 (Local Guide & Reviews) ​Sun Farm Hawaii
The Polynesian cultural center
     In lieu "au" goin'--for those of us who can't . . .
https://www.polynesia.com/ Foods to Try at the Polynesian Cultural Center Sharing Aloha 2025 documentary film
I so enjoyed this movie . . . lots of back stories you might never know, even if you go.
]]><![CDATA[O Canada!]]>Tue, 22 Jul 2025 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/o-canada
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Vew from Sea to Sky Gondola--36800 Highway 99, Squamish BC (45 min drive north of Vancouver BC)--taken by Nicole Calvert
Provincial Capitals of Canada
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https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:National_flag_of_Canada
​"O Canada" Canadian National Anthem
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RidIw0OXs9U
In celebration of Canada Day--July 1

Canadian Thanksgiving--second Monday of October
Must Do Canada National Parks of Canada
Note:  I'm starting with Victoria, Vancouver Island, and making my way east as far as I have  gathered content!
Victoria BC—provincial capital of British Columbia
​      The Parliamentary grounds are so beautiful, they are well worth wandering.  For more about the Parliamentary complex of Victoria, and more links for things to do/see, scroll down to the bottom of
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Parliamentary Buildings with statue of Queen Victoria, Victoria BC on a glorious day mid October
Coming into Victoria via the Ferry from Port Angeles WA
 The Black Ball Ferry Line--430 Belleville St., Victoria BC V8V 1W9, Canada
Surrounding the Parliamentary Complex
  • Steamship Terminal--470 Belleville St., Victoria BC V8V 1W9, Canada
  • ​Inner Harbor Causeway--along the Marina by the Steamship Terminal
  • Confederation Garden Court & Fountain--Menzies St &, Belleville St., Victoria BC V8V, Canada (not shown)
  • Victoria Carriage Tours-- ​https://apps.victoriacarriage.com/store/reservation    (not shown)
  • WestPark Lot 707--481 Kingston St, Victoria BC V8V 1V8, Canada  (not shown)
  • King's Printer--563 Superior St, Victoria BC V8V 0C5, Canada
  • The Douglas Building--617 Government St, Victoria BC V8V 1X6, Canada
  • The Peace Tulip Garden--430 Belleville St., Victoria BC V8V 1W9, Canada 
​Government Street north to Wharf St/Humboldt St intersection
  • Emily Carr Statue--Government St & Belleville St., Victoria BC V8W 1W5, Canada
  • Hop On Hop Off City Tours--721 Government St, Victoria BC V8W 1W5, Canada (brochure pic above)
  • The Fairmount Empress Hotel--​721 Government St, Victoria BC V8W 1W5, Canada
  • Destination Greater Victoria Visitor Centre--812 Wharf St, Victoria BC V8W 1T3, Canada
Wharf St
     Sites to see going north along Wharf St from Government St (I didn't get to see all on first trip to Victoria)
  • "The Homecoming Statues"--814 Wharf St, Victoria, BC V8W 1T3, Canada (not shown)
  • "The Veteran Sailor Statue"--814 Wharf St, Victoria, BC V8W 1T3, Canada; & 2 other memorials (not shown)
  • The Victoria Dragonboat Festival--815 Wharf St, Victoria, BC V8W 1T2, Canada (August annually)   https://victoriadragonboatfestival.com/ (not shown)
  • Ship Point Park—off Wharf St near the Dragon Boat Festival site; offers lots of summer activities
    https://www.victoria.ca/community-culture/events/summer-ship-point-kicks (not shown)
  • The Old Victoria Customs House--1002 Wharf St, Victoria, BC V8W 1T4, Canada; west end of Broughton St (see distant pic at the end of Broughton St, beyond parking garages, under Government St below)
  • Fort Victoria National Historic Site--between Broughton & Fort St (not shown)
  • Lots of places to eat, rent charters & tours, etc
  • Reeson Park--1304 Wharf St, Victoria BC (photo below)
  • The Commerce Canoe sculpture-- at the meeting of Pandora & Johnson St; bridge to W Victoria beyond; Victoria BC; see photo below
Government Street north toward Chinatown
  • Bug Zoo—631 Courtney St, just off Government St     https://www.victoriabugzoo.ca/
  • Out of Ireland—1000 Government Street, Victoria, BC | V8W 1X7 “Located in a beautiful heritage building in downtown Victoria, British Columbia, our store is well known for its eclectic collection of Irish knitwear, clothing, jewellery, fashion accessories, and gifts.” https://www.outofireland.ca/
  • Bard & Banker pub--1022 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1X7, Canadahttps://www.bardandbanker.com/
  • The Bay Centre—1150 Douglas Street, Victoria, CA V8W 3M9, with another entrance on Government Sthttps://www.thebaycentre.ca/directory/
  • Bastion Square—View St & Government St, Victoria BChttps://www.tourismvictoria.com/statues-landmarks/bastion-square  links for things to see & do
  • Market Square--560 Johnson St (west off Government St), Victoria, BC V8W 3C6, Canada (with another entrance on Pandora Ave).    ​https://marketsquare.ca/?utm_source=tourismvictoria.com&utm_medium=referral
  • McPherson Playhouse--3 Centennial Square, Victoria, BC V8W 1P5, Canada (photo below from Government St)   “Located in the heart of Old Town Victoria, the McPherson Playhouse has been the home of intimate theatre in Victoria since opening in 1914 as part of the Pantages chain of theatres found across North America. Evolving from its vaudevillian roots, the McPherson hosts a variety of professional, community and amateur events throughout the year. The 772-seat theatre continues to be one of the most impeccably maintained and finest examples of theatres from its era still standing in Canada today.”  For accessible accommodations, contact the theatre.  Photo below from Government St & Pandora Ave.​https://livevictoria.com/mcphersonplayhouse
Chinatown
     While the Chinatown gate is at Fisgard & Government St, Victoria's Chinatown covers an area from at least Pandora Ave north to Herald St, and east on Fisgard to Douglas St.  It's a delight to explore!

Victoria Chinatown Museum-- 10 Fan Tan Alley, Victoria, BC V8W 1W3, Canada
Open Thurs-Sun 11am-5pm, and all statutory Monday holidays.  It wasn't open when I was there. Bucket List Chinatown Victoria ​CRD (Capital Regional District) Square—across from the Chinatown gate at Fisgard & Government St. 
     Worth a stroll or a roll, with a statue of Dr Sun Yat-Sen & Bright Pearl
“As the centrepiece between Centennial Square and historic Chinatown, the Bright Pearl honors the many people who immigrated here from the Pearl River Valley in China.  The Bright Pearl welcomes citizens and visitors alike to this civic square, especially those from our twin cities around the world . . . added the finishing touch to the official opening of the Capital Regional District [CRD] Building.”

​Douglas St--I wheeled south on Douglas St, but my phone battery died​ ☹​
Victoria Public Market at the Hudson on Douglas St between Fisgard & Herald, Victoria BC Beehive Wool Shop--1700 Douglas St, Victoria, BC V8W 2G7, Canada; yarn store at Fisgard & Douglas St​ Centennial Square Parkade--645 Fisgard St, Victoria, BC V8W 1R7, Canada Centennial Square--1 Centennial Square, Victoria, BC V8W 1P6, Canada; Transcanadian Hwy 1 aka Douglas St City Hall—Douglas St & Pandora Ave
Miniature World—649 Humboldt St (just west of Douglas St), Victoria BC ​The Maritime Museum of British Columbia--744 Douglas St--or 634 Humboldt St, Victoria BC Mungo Martin House in Thunderbird Park-- 475 Belleville St., Victoria, BC V8V 2P8, Canada; Belleville & Douglas 
Thunderbird Park-- 638 Douglas St, Victoria, BC V8V 2P8, Canada
James Bay Inn--270 Government St, Victoria BC (a block west of Douglas St & Beacon Hill Park)
     Hotel, Suites, Cottages.  Dating from 1911, “No air conditioning & no elevators.  Access to a sunny verandah on
     floor 2 & 3.  Art Deco Cafe & Restaurant and a friendly pub on site.  No smoking, no pets.”
Itinerary Ideas for 1-4 or so days in Victoria BC--choose what looks fun
​     I suggest first going to see Confederation Fountain/Park at Belleville St & Menzies St, across from the Parliamentary campus.  Next tour the Parliament buildings, or at least the grounds.  After that, see the Royal BC Museum, and from there head north up Government St, past the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel.  Stop for info at the Greater Victoria Visitor Center, and continue north on Government St as far as Chinatown.  Return south on Wharf St (after crossing the Johnson St Bridge and seeing Songhees Park, if you like), check out the Fort Victoria National Historic Site and pass the Old Victoria Customs House, (optionally have lunch at Red Fish Blue Fish if that brings delight), see the Veteran Sailor Statue and the Homecoming Statue, and detour to walk along the Inner Habour Causeway. This could take a whole day, and if you have an electric wheelchair, may seriously deplete your battery. 
     Return to Belleville St and head east to Thunderbird Park, then north again on Douglas St (aka Trans-Canada Hwy 1).  See the Victoria Crystal Garden, The Maritime Museum of British Columbia at Victoria Conference Center, detour a half a block west on Humboldt St to see the Miniature World museum, before continuing north on Douglas St (half a block west on Courtney St is the Bug Zoo, half a block east on Broughton St is the Greater Victoria Public Library).  St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, then Bay Center shopping mall are north on Douglas St, and Haunted Manor mini-golf & ping pong are just to the east on Yates St, as is Cineplex Odeon Victoria Cinemas.  Victoria City Hall is at the corner of Pandora Ave & Douglas St, and next north of it is Centennial Square with it’s fountain & plaza, and restrooms on the first floor of the Centennial Parkade.  Victoria Public Market is between Fisgard & Herald streets on Douglas St.  This could well take a 2nd day, but if not, head south as follows.
     Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre arena is on Blanshard St at Caledonia (next street north of Herald St), and you can return south along Blanshard, stopping at what appeals (Capitol 6 Theatres are nearly opposite the Cineplex Odeon Victoria Cinemas at Yates St, and the Royal Theatre is at Broughton).  An interesting detour east on Broughton  is Pioneer Square, and south of that is Christ Church Cathedral, across from which is the Afghanistan Memorial.  Returning to Blanshard on Burdette Ave is the Provincial Courthouse.  Continue south on Blanshard St to St Ann’s Academy and Auditorium National Historic Site (enjoy the grounds of the complex), and if you have energy left, explore Beacon Hill Park, with it’s elegant gardens, ponds, bandshell, ball fields, pickleball, children’s farm (if open), sun clock, totem pole, etc (has restrooms).  This could take a day or two as well.
     The long walk along the shore on Dallas Rd takes you past historic Holland Point Park, in view of The First Nations Breakwater Mural, and in sight of the Breakwater Lighthouse (a “massive white lighthouse, built in 1916, with scenic views at the end of a long breakwater walkway”, which the ferries pass, but I didn’t see).  Continuing along Dallas Rd is the interactive Ogden Point Sundial, and eventually Fisherman’s Wharf/Fisherman’s Wharf Park (“Visitors can see seals & other marine life along this quaint floating pier with food kiosks & shops”).  A few zigzags will get you back to Belleville St where you began. 
     In all, there’s plenty here for 4-5 days, not even counting the sights of West Victoria, the famous Buchart Gardens, Craigdarroch & Hatley Castles, and so much else Vancouver Island has to offer!

Holland Point
https://beaconhillparkhistory.org/contents/appendix_C2.htm
 
Ogden Point Breakwater Lighthouse (one of 4 active lighthouses listed for Victoria)
https://www.lighthousefriends.com/light.asp?ID=1202
Brochures & Maps from the Ferry--choose the map that makes most sense to you
Butchart Gardens—13.5 mi NW of Victoria, travel by car, bus, tour, taxi, boat
     Sunken Garden, Rose garden, Japanese Garden, Italian Garen, Mediterranean Garden; Visitor Centre, Gift Shop, Carousel, Wharf, places to eat Victoria Butterfly Gardens--1461 Benvenuto AVE Brentwood Bay BC V8M 1J5 (said to be 5 min from Butchart Gardens)
Vancouver Island
Vancouver Island Bucketlist
     Naturally, I couldn't do everything, but here are some more enticing ideas of things to do . . .
Tofino--Vancouaver Island
Langford--Vancouver Island
Comox Valley--Vancouver Island
​Nanaimo--Vancouver Island
​Gulf Islands--between Vancouver Island and Vancouver BC on the mainland
British Columbia
BC Parks, Canada Top 12 Most Beautiful National and Provincial Parks in Western Canada, other than Banff
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James Douglass--Father of British Columbia, display at Vancouver WA mall
The other Vancouver—Fort Vancouver USA
    Before it was part of the US, this fort was part of British North America, essentially Canada.  In 2025 this fort celebrated its 200th year.  
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Hudson's Bay Company Historic Trading Posts and Territories; Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Vancouver WA
Vancouver BC
     Photos courtesy Nicole Calvert.
Point Atkinson Lighthouse, West Vancouver BC
     Thanks to Nicole Calvert for publishing her photos of this lighthouse & hike; more photos: see 1st link below
Stanley Park--photos courtesy Nicole Calvert 
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park--3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver BC; photos by Nicole Calvert
Grouse Mtn Resort—15 min drive north of downtown Vancouver BC. 2024
     Other than driving by car, you can travel by public transit, or take a free summer shuttle from downtown Vancouver (with the purchase of a roundtrip admission ticket).
     Photos courtesy Nicole Calvert
Sea to Sky Gondola--36800 Highway 99, Squamish BC (45 min drive north of Vancouver BC)
Shuttles, buses, tours from Vancouver available (see site below, photo at the top of this post)
Whistler BC—77 mi/1 hr 45 min north of Vancouver BC; photos below courtesy Nicole Calvert
     Site of the 2010 Winter Olympics.  Not far is the historic Whistler Train Wreck site.
Golden Ears Park--24480 Fern Crescent, Maple Ridge BC V4R 2S1, Canada (40 mi/2 hrs east of Vancouver BC)
     Photos courtesy Nicole Calvert
Cascade Falls, Hayward Reservoir Trail, & Steelhead Falls near Mission BC
     Fraser Valley Regional District.  Cascade Falls is northeast of Mission BC, Steelhead Falls is north of Mission.  There is no public transit to either of these falls.  Hayward Reservoir Trail is at Stave Falls BC, moderate hike may need maintenance, popular, figure a half day for the whole trek.  All photos below courtesy Nicole Calvert. Stave Lake & Stave Falls dam Mission BC is about an hour by car east of Vancouver BC
West Coast Express rail service from Downtown Vancouver BC to Mission BC
Chilliwack BC--about ½ hr east of Mission by car Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park, east of Chilliwack BC; all below photos courtesy Nicole Calvert 
Harrison Hot Springs—it’s about 20 mi/half an hour from Chilliwack BC to Harrison Hot Springs
     The easiest route is to travel east on Hwy 1 (Trans Canada Hwy) , then north on Hwy 9.  One of many things to do there is to walk the Spirit Trail.  Photos below courtesy Nicole Calvert.
Hicks Lake, Sasquatch Provincial Park--north of Harrison Hot Springs
​     All photos below courtesy Nicole Calvert.
Clearwater BC—78mi/abt. 1 hr 20 min north of Kamloops BC (abt 2hrs by train, twice a week)
     Located where the Clearwater River empties into the North Thompson River. Its latitude is 51° 38' 42" N; longitude is 120° 1' 58" W.  All photos below courtesy Nicole Calvert, intrepid hiker!Weather/Climate of Clearwater
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Photo by Nicole Calvert
Wells Gray Provincial Park—near Clearwater BC
​     All photos below courtesy Nicole Calvert.
Hinton/Jasper KOA (Hinton Alberta, is about an hour from Jasper via Trans-Canada Hwy 16)
     Hwy 5 is a north-south route in BC.  South of Kamloops it’s known as the Coquilhalla Hwy.  Photos courtesy Nicole Calvert.
https://koa.com/campgrounds/hinton/ Hinton/Jasper KOA Holiday (east of the Rockies)
https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Hinton/Jasper-AB-Canada by car, bus, train, taxi
Jasper Alberta
          Skytram, Jasper National Park, and Whistler Summit at Jasper National Park.  ​As ever, photos are courtesy Nicole Calvert
Yoho National Park
     Located on the western slope of the Continental Divide, SE British Columbia (bordering Alberta).  It includes several peaks over 10,000 ft high, at least 2 truly notable waterfalls.  It shares a boundary with Jasper National Park, Banff National Park, and Kootenay National Park: in the heart of Canada’s Rockies.  Field BC is the tiny community in the center of Yoho, on the Trans-Canada Hwy (Hwy 1), 475 mi/8.5+ hours from Vancouver BC by car.  Photos courtesy Nicole Calvert Emerald Lake
Golden BC
     Photos courtesy Nicole Calvert
Banff, Alberta
     Photos thanks to Nicole Calvert
Yahk BC to Bonner’s Ferry ID
     Headed Home across the  US PNW; photos courtesy Nicole Calvert
]]><![CDATA[Hwy 38--Reedsport to Drain OR]]>Fri, 20 Jun 2025 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/hwy-38-reedsport-to-drain-or
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Heart of the Dunes--Reedsport OR, intersection Hwy 38 and Hwy 101
     I'm writing this up after attending the 25th Annual Oregon Divisional Chainsaw Carving Championship:  Father’s Day Weekend, June 12-15, 2025.  But this is not the first time I've visited Reedsport, nor traveled Hwy 38.  Over time I've gathered more than I have written up before, so here's what else I have to say.  See also, links below:
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Reedsport Centennial Mural
Reedsport OR--at the junction of Hwy 38 off I-5 and Hwy 101 along the coast
     In order to get to the Chainsaw Carving event in good time, we stayed over at the Best Western Salbasgeon Inn & Suites of Reedsport OR, and grabbed something to eat at the nearby DQ.  I wanted to explore a bit before bedding down, so wheeled a loop east along Winchester Ave, north to the site of the event, returning west along Fir/Hwy 38. And finally south on Hwy 101 back to our hotel.  Traveled the same loop the next day.
Best Western Salbasgeon Inn & Suites of Reedsport--1400 Highway 101, Reedsport OR 97467 Dairy Queen--1250 Oregon Coast Hwy, Reedsport OR 97467
     Sept. of 2025 en voyage at the coast, I found myself needing air for my tire.  The friendly, helpful person at the Union 76 station suggested I go to Les Schwab down the street, right by Umpqua Shopping Center.  They kindly took  care of me. 
Umpqua Shopping Center, across from Best Western and MacKay's Market
Les Schwab--174 16th St, Reedsport OR 97467; by Safeway, right on Hwy 101
​Winchester Ave
     I wheeled the rear path from the parking at the Best Western right to Winchester Ave, all the way along it to 3rd, where I crossed over Hwy 38.  No stop light, but it was safe to cross there by the Post Office.
Reedsport Rock & Gem Show at the Reedsport Community Center—451 Winchester Ave, Reedsport OR
     I was so pleasantly pleased to happen upon this rock show the same weekend as the Chainsaw Carving event! It was hard to narrow down all the photos I took, and they don't do justice to the awe-some rocks, stones, gems, displays, even kid activities.  And it's Free!
Lower Umpqua Library--395 Winchester Ave, Reedsport OR 97467
     Happened upon the library booksale . . . books had no set price, just donate what you can.
The Umpqua Riverfront--from Hwy 38 & 3rd St, Reedsport OR
25th Annual Oregon Divisional Chainsaw Carving Championship:  Father’s Day Weekend, June 12-15, 2025
     You can get stuff to eat and drink as you wander in wonder, watching the carvers at work, or buy their wares premade, or you can sit a spell to eat between wanderings.  There are other various vendors, as well.  I believe each night they auction the works of the quick carve contests--1 hour to creat a masterpiece!  Naturally, I took many more photos than is reasonable to include here.
Umpqua Discovery Center--409 Riverfront Way, Reedsport OR 97467
     Unfortunately, no photos are allowed in the exhibit walks, because the murals are spectacular!  I still found plenty to photograph, I guess.
 Rainbow Plaza & Boat Launch--next to the Umpqua Discovery Center--409 Riverfront Way, Reedsport OR 97467
     "The public lot features ample parking for 10 passenger cars and 34 boat/trailer spaces. Used by adjacent restaurant for customer parking as well as visitor's to the beautiful Umpqua Riverfront. A large restroom facility is open from dawn to dusk for public use along with multiple picnic tables and viewing benches."  
     The site of the Chainsaw Carving event is an open gravel lot:     "A large .17 acre gravel lot with plenty of space for parking and events. In 2018 through a major grant project the City was able to install the adjacent fish cleaning station along with the City's only coin operated boat wash which sits in the southeastern corner of the lot. The plaza is most heavily used during the summer months as overflow parking for the boat ramp as well as limited space for dry camping. The plaza also features the Reedsport Main Street Program's Salmon Mural on the north end along the levee wall.
     "The focal point of the plaza is the 1915 Smith & Watson Iron Works steam donkey also known as "Machine No. 36;" one of only three of its kind, featuring a compound geared two-speed cable pull.  Powered by an efficient, wood-fed firebox, Machine No. 36 was used throughout the thick timber around Reedsport and Winchester Bay to haul logs downhill to the rail lines."
Kismet’s Landing--351 Riverfront Way, Reedsport OR 97467
     We had dinner here, and it was really great.  Beautiful decor and table settings, really friendly and accommodating staff, and tantalizing fare.  They also have an order out window.  It's not inexpensive. Big Fish Café--345 Riverfront Way, Reedsport OR 97467; next to Kisment's Schooner Inn Café--423 Riverfront Way, Reedsport OR 97467; just on the other side of the Discovery Center
​Old Town Reedsport
Hahn Park--680 Fir Ave, Reedsport OR 97467
     A memorial in the triangle created when Hwy 38 becomes Umpqua Ave between 6th St & E RR Ave
Douglas County Courthouse Annex--680 Fir Ave, Reedsport OR 97467
Roy Henderson Park--West RR Ave between Greenwood and Fir, Reedsport OR
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Siuslaw National Forest, US Forest Service Office--at the junction of Hwy 38 and Hwy 101, Reedsport OR
​South on Hwy 101 between the junction with Hwy 38 and Winchester Ave
​(see more at “Reedsport OR, up & down the coast”)
​Mexican Express--345 N 13th St, Reedsport OR 97467
​Brochures, menues, & more info about the wider area
Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area--just east of Reedsport, on Hwy 38
(see also links at the beginning of this post for more pics of the amenities and elk here)
Upmqua Wayside, east of Reedsport OR on Hwy 38
Scottsburg OR
Scottsburg County Park--43833 OR-38, Scottsburg OR 97473, west of Scottsburg on the Umpqua River
Scott Creek, Douglas County Park boat launch--between Scottsburg & Elkton, Hwy 38 aka Umpqua Hwy
Wells Creek OR
Elkton OR--at the junction of Hwy 38 and Hwy 138 Fort Umpqua--unobtrusive entry next to Elkton Community Education Center--15850 OR Hwy 38 W, Elkton OR
     Elkton is an appealing little community, though the hills would be difficult for me to manage as a disabled person.  But there's a lot that I like about it.  Elkton HS looks so cool, but its photogenic side is right on Hwy 38, so no way to get a shot of the most interesting, historical architectural building (at least not from my vehicle). ​
Alfred S. Tyson Park--640 River Dr, Elkton OR 97436
Elkton RV Park--450 River Dr, Elkton, OR 97436
Leaving Elkton OR east on Hwy 38
Drain OR
     Since I've traveled through Drain many times, both east and west, some of the following fotos will be east facing, some west facing.  There's more behind the scenes at Drain that appears with a mere drive-through.
     “The City of Drain is located in northern Douglas County at the confluence of Pass and Elk Creeks. A mere 50 miles east of the Oregon coast, Drain is known as the "Gateway to the Pacific Ocean." The city is nestled among fir trees and surrounded by beautiful scenery. It's a small quiet community, far enough away from the hustle and bustle of the city, yet close enough to take advantage of the conveniences. Drain is located just 6 miles west of Interstate 5, making the 39 mile commute north to the city of Eugene, or the 34 mile commute south to the city of Roseburg (the county seat) very accessible.”
     I note a free family/tween movie & popcorn event July 10, 2025, 4-6pm.  I presume that’s not just a one-time event.
]]><![CDATA[Hanukkah & Holocaust; + Annual Jewish Holidays]]>Tue, 10 Jun 2025 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/hanukkah-holocaustNote:  Originally this post was published Nov 2021; 2025 Jewish Holidays update at the end
     Hanukkah in 2021 began Sunday Nov 28, and I decided it was an appropriate time to visit the Jewish museum and the Holocaust Memorial in Portland OR.
     For us non-Jews, below are some interesting links:
"Hanukkah - Chanukah 2021 - Menorah, Dreidels, Latkes, Recipes, Games and more" "How to Light the Menorah - Light Up Your Environment! - Chanukah - Hanukkah" After about two and a half min the Rabbi focuses on Hanukkah in the following link:
     I attended the first ever lighting of the Menorah in Gresham OR, the first night of Chanukah in 2021, the year of the opening of Chabad Jewish Center of Gresham / East County.  The event was at the Gresham Center for the Arts, a nice plaza on 2nd St between NE Kelly Ave and NE Hood Ave where they have a Farmers Market, restrooms, and a splash pad in summer, a drop box for letters to Santa during the season.  I went early so I wouldn't have to try to find the place and van-accessible parking in the dark.  I got the perfect easy parallel parking on the curb.  After all week fretting that it would be a cold, dark, rainy night, the weather turned out nice, though breezy enough that the huge inflatable dreidel kept blowing over.
     The Rabbi and the City Councilwoman both gave touching/inspiring messages for the evening.  My notes (taken on scraps in the dark) are imperfect, so I beg pardon for that.  The Rabbi spoke of how physical symbols remind us of spiritual things like wisdom, friendship, love.  We must “use” those spiritual aspects of life or lose them.  Hanukkah flames are lights that shine in the darkness, reveal evils—the erosion of time-honored values—give light to those who walk in darkness, and benefit us all.    The Councilwoman spoke of the inspiration of Hanukkah celebrating the victory of Right over Might.  We must have courage to stand against the tyranny of the powerful.  She spoke of the appropriateness in the proximity of Thanksgiving and Hanukkah, both celebrations of blessings we’ve received.  She praised the “Melting Pot” of America [where race, ancestry, differences of experience and heritage all season the medley, or add various strengths to the alloy].  We are all Americans.
     I wished I could have attended the 2021 Community Chanukah Celebration in Esther Short Park (605 Esther St.) in Vancouver USA, with “live music, hot cocoa, doughnuts and a giant ice menorah carving,” (which sounded cool) but I had attended their 2019 lighting, and wanted to spread my wings, so to speak.  I couldn't be in both places at the same time.  For 2019 “Festivals of Light”, including Hanukkah at Esther Short Park, scroll down at        Portland OR, of course, celebrates Hanukkah every year, virtually in 2020, and both live and virtually in 2021.  They say you can participate every night by Zoom.
     The weekend of Hanukkah I went to Portland Friday for the tour at the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education, and to visit the Oregon Holocaust Memorial.  I stopped at Ben & Esther's Vegan Jewish Deli for lunch, hoping as well to get latkes and jelly donuts for my Hanukkah feast at home.  I had tried to call ahead all week to make sure, but got no connection—as it turns out, they were closed 10 days for renovations.  But I drove that way anyway, and it was the very day they reopened, unfortunately for me they didn’t have latkes or donuts yet (nor the next day).  They have very limited street parking, but Safeway across the street has van-accessible parking, and the street crossing is not bad except for water pooled on a rainy day at bottom of the crossing ramp.  There’s a handy bus stop as well.
    Ben & Esther's Vegan Jewish Deli--6912 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland OR    
     Friday night after the Museum and Memorial I drove to Sweet Lorraine’s Latkes and More, to try to get latkes and jelly donuts, but it was dark, the limited street parking was full, I was tired, and again, I got only a  recorded message when I tried to call.  So when I had to pick up my main dinner from Zuppan’s Market on Saturday, I stopped at Sweet Lorraine’s (Killingsworth Station Food Carts) for lunch, where I was fortunate enough to get a good spot to park along the curb.  The ramp up to the food carts is too steep for a manual wheelchair, but my new electric one was able to make it without tipping over.  Lorraine suggested I order online and include a note about needing curbside delivery, park in the back momentarily and call, and they would bring the food out.  She did have latkes, and a delicious kale salad, but no jelly donuts yet. 
    Sweet Lorraine’s Latkes and More—1331 Killingsworth, Portland OR
     Saturday was rainy, but when I called earlier in the week to order my main Hanukkah meal from Zuppan’s Market (Burnside), the person taking my order said just to park and call, and they’d bring my food out to accommodate my handicap.  There’s a longer story . . . I had hoped to pick up the food on the way home from the Holocaust Memorial in Washington Square (Portland OR) on Friday, because it is so close and I wouldn’t have to make an extra trip.  But as it turned out, I had to make that extra trip, and once again, I only got a recording when I called.  Again, I was so very fortunate that the handicapped parking was roomy for a van with a ramp, was right at the doorway, and was unoccupied.  I went in and asked about my order, and eventually they got it together while I explored the store, décor and delights, and took photos.  I had ordered a meal for 4, but the dishes were generous enough for at least 6.  The ad for their Hanukkah meal was really very enticing, and the food was not disappointing.  I could have ordered my latkes and jelly donuts from them as well, but I had wanted to try the other places.  I wasn’t sorry I tried the others, but I was sorry I didn’t just include the latkes and donuts in my Zuppan’s order.  It is an investment.
    Zuppan's Market-- 2340 W Burnside
     As always, the first time going somewhere there is considerable anxiety about finding appropriate parking.  The online map did show that there was parking around the block from the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education.  I worried about the time it would take to park and pay and get around to the entrance, that I might miss starting with the tour.  But just across from the Museum is the historic old US Customs House (had been sold for shared office space), that had a van accessible handicapped parking spot of which I availed myself.  Very handy.  I made it to the tour just as they were starting, and they welcomed me in.  After the tour I noted the pleasant park along several blocks between 8th and Park Avenues.
    Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education--724 NW Davis St, Portland OR       The historic United States Customhouse--220 NW 8th Ave, Portland OR
​     Construction was still going on in the area of Washington Park where I wanted to go but wasn’t blocking my way.  The online maps and physical street signs leave something to be desired, so I had to go the rounds to try to find the Oregon Holocaust Memorial.  At last, I parked by the Coming of the White Man statue (which I take is meant to also be the Memorial parking), and got out for some pathfinding.  I rolled the compacted gravel path by the statue, and followed the signs toward the memorial, which didn’t have good follow-up for the way to go.  Both ways became steep inclines, and I didn’t have a companion in case I got into a fix.  Nevertheless, I continued with trepidation.  Partway down I tried to turn back, but my wheels spun, so I continued cautiously toward the bump barrier at the edge of the road, and on my way there caught a glimpse of the memorial down through the brush.  I took some pics just in case that was the best I could do.  Once I got on the road, I decided to try the crossing, and sure enough, that’s where the inadequately marked paved path to the memorial is.  So, to distill all that--drive up and park by the "Coming of the White Man" statue (picnic tables near; costed me $2 for an hour at the pay post, which takes coins and card), stroll/roll back down the paved road to the pedestrian crossing to get to the Holocaust Memorial, as well as restrooms and park map.  It’s not suitable for a solo person in a manual wheelchair, but my new electric chair was able to manage the steep incline back up to my van, even as I kind of held my breath.
    Oregon Holocaust Memorial-- 240 SW Wright Ave, Washington Park, Portland OR     United States Holocaust Memorial Museum--100 Raoul Wallenberg Place SW, Washington, DC 20024-2126
Main telephone: 202.488.0400
A modern Jewish immigrant experience
Updated 2025
Jewish Holidays
Note:  Jewish days begin at sundown.
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Awe-Some Days: Poems about the Jewish Holidays by Marilyn Singer (with a Note About the Jewish Calendar)
Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret, Simchat Torah, Hanukkah, Tu B'Shevat, Purim, Passover, Israel Independence Day, Lag B.Omer, Shavuot, Tish B'Av, Yom Ha Shoah, Tu B'Av, Shabbat
Beg pardon for organizing the following celebrations by the US calendar.
Fast of Tevet 10               10 Jan 2025
Armies of Babylon laid siege to Jerusalem
Fasting, mourning, repentance
“The Babylonian Conquest and the Destruction of the First Temple” 7.5 min video Jeremiah part 3—history chapters, including the fall of Jerusalem to Babylon Bible Collection:  Jeremiah (1998) with Patrick Demsey & Oliver Reed; 1.5 hour movie
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Jeremiah sits amidst the rubble of Jerusalem, after its siege, Lithograph by B. Weiss; from Wikimedia Commons
Tu B’Shevat—Feb 12, 2025
New Year for Trees
Eat fruit, plant trees
Sammy Spider’s First Tu B’Shevat
Trees to See in the Pacific Northwest
Purim    13 Mar 2025
Queen Esther story, from the Book of Esther
Sammy Spider’s First Purim
Legumes & seeds (Daniel foods), kreplach, matza meal, hamantaschen, etc.
Keylitsh—sweet long challah Bible Collection: Esther (2000)
The Bible story of Esther starring Louise Lombard, F. Murray Abraham & Jurgen Prochnow
Purim at the Gan:  Portland Jewish Preschool--6612 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland, OR 97239
Purims at my place 
Passover/Pesach             12 Apr 2025  8 days
Exodus, freedom, deliverance—Exodus 11-12
Seder Plate & Passover meal ​(Note:  as a non-Jew, my meals pictured below aren't necessarily kosher, I hope not offensive)
Feast of Unleavened Bread—celebrated as a part of Passover Exodus 12:14-28, Leviticus 23:4-8, Numbers 28:16-25, Deuteronomy 16:1-8
Sammy Spider’s First Haggadah
Sammy Spider’s First Passover
Sammy Spi der’s First Passover Shapes
Feast of the First Fruits  20 Apr 2025
The day after the Sabbath ending the Feast of Unleavened Bread
1st harvest-- Leviticus 23:9-14. Deuteronomy 26:1-11
Wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, dates (offer the first & best of every harvest) Ruth gathered barley, then wheat in Boaz’s field (Ruth 2:17)
Shavuot/Pentecost         1 June 2025
Feast of Weeks, 50 days after First Fruits-- Leviticus 23:15-16, Deuteronomy 16:9-10, Numbers 28:26-31
Giving of Torah on Sinai.  Read 10 Commandments, Dairy foods. The 10 Commandments—5 min videos ‘The Ten Commandments” (1956) Charlton Heston, Yul Bruner, etc Enhanced version of “The Ten Commandments” created for the 95th anniversary of DeMille's 1924 film
     2hr 16min. TV PG (free on Tubi):  silent movie; at 50 min it becomes a “modern” story Sammy Spider’s First Shavuot
Scroll down to Tillamook Creamery at
Rosh Hashanah/Feast of Trumpets                        22 Sept 2025   2 days
Jewish New Year.  Creation, Adam & Eve
First of High Holidays-- Leviticus 23:23-25
Challah, pomegranate, chicken, tzimmes, apple kugel, honey cake, apple coffee cake​, etc.​Sammy Spider’s First Rosh Hashanah
Yom Kippur        1 Oct 2025
Day of Atonement; holiest day of Jewish calendar-- Leviticus 23:27-28, Leviticus 16:1-34
Fast, pray, seek forgiveness from God & fellows
The food photos following are for before and after Yom Kippur; of course from more than one year.
Peak of High HolidaysYom Kippur War (an ad before the feature could cause confusion)
Sukkot               6 Oct 2025    7 days
Feast of Booths, Feast of Tabernacles, Feast of Ingathering, Harvest
Exodus 23:16, 34:22; Leviticus 23:34, 42; Deuteronomy 16; Zechariah 14
Informative and interesting explanations:Commemorating the wilderness journey of the Israelites to the Promised Land, and a Harvest festival.
Challah, corn, pumpkin, tzimmes, kugel, gefilte fish, carrots, chicken, apples, pears, edible sukkas, etc.
Sammy Spider’s First Sukkot
Chanukah/Hanukkah     14 Dec 2025    8 days
aka Feast of Dedication Fried foods, latkes, jelly donuts, brisket, kugel, etc.
Lighting of the Menorah at Pioneer Courthouse Square, Portland OR, 2023
     A really fun event.  I drove down early to find parking at our favorite parking garage not far away (Smart Park at 4th & Yamhill, Portland OR), but buses stop right at the Square.  I worried about being there at night, especially with recent current events, but I felt perfectly safe there on my own.  The city and the organizers both provided security.
Hanukkah around
Hanukkahs at home
Hanukkah books
Sammy Spider’s First Hanukkah
The Count’s Hanukkah Countdown, Shalom Sesame, 24pp  (special number 8), picturebook grade K-1
These series have a Hanukkah title:
  • Seedlings series
  • Benchmark Rebus series, typically 24pp, 1 sentence/page, full-page phtos, grade K-1
  • Scholastic Rookie Read-About Holidays, typically 32p 4ch, activity, quiz great pics, grade 1-2
  • Bumba Books, It's a Holiday, grade 1-2
  • Story of Our Holidays, Hanukkah by Joahnna Ponto & Carol Gnojewski, 32pp 5ch, recipe, craft, game, gr 2
  • Pebble Explore series, Capstone publishing
  • Celebrating Holidays, Blastoff Readers level 2
Shabbat Shalom              begins at sundown Friday nights
Other pertinent books
     I haven't read all, so can't vouch for all, nor comment on their possible biases.  The size of the photos has more to do with the number of photos I had of each, not their relative importance.
The Angel: The Egyptian Spy Who Saved Israel by Uri Bar-Joseph 
Who By Fire:  Leonard Cohen in the Sinai by Matti Friedman 
Master of the Game:  Henry Kissinger and the Art of Middle East Diplomacy by Martin Indyk
Bibi:  My Story by Benjamin Netanyahu (2022); 736pp
     He has also written
A Durable Peace:  Israel and its Place Among the Nations (2000)
Fighting Terrorism:  How Democracies Can Defeat Domestic and International Terrorists (2001)
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