Welcome to Wilsonville OR! Spring of 2024 I wanted to go see the cherry blossoms, either in Hood River or in Wilsonville OR. Wilsonville was much more practical for me, but as I searched out other things to do while there, I got distracted from my original intent while looking at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival, and the free Public Egg Hunt held the day before Easter. I found other places and events of interest as well, as will be seen below. Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm--33814 S Meridian Rd, Woodburn, OR 97071 Hoping to see the big balloons up in the air meant getting to the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm at sunrise (7am) for the take-off, but leaving an hour late, I could only hope to possibly see the landing, or at least packing them up. My hope was to see something from the parking area. Keeping watch for the balloons in the air all the way down, I was disappointed at that, but delighted at the lovely moon out. As it turned out, one could not even get in the parking area without a ticket (which was way beyond my means). It was just as well I didn’t manage to leave any earlier, as the guy at the ticket booth said they hadn’t been able to lift the balloons aloft because it was too windy. The Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm is actually closer to Hubbard OR than Wilsonville. If not in a hurry, the way is a pleasant rural drive past orchards, vineyards & wineries, over hill & dale (watch for tight curves), farms & fields, and forests. Prospects of prosperous farmers & others with plenty money filled my day, and sometimes there were fine perspectives of Mt Hood. Since the road was too narrow to get an overview of the event, I finally found a narrow connecting road to get a few far away shots. There are many videos of the event on the internet.
Along Meridian Road Though concerned about getting back in time for the Wilsonville Easter Egg Hunt, yet I couldn’t resist a few pics along the way. Unfortunately, I didn’t catch the whimsical farm art I'd passed on the way to the tulip farm. Elliott Prairie Community Church--5364 S Schneider Rd, east of Woodburn, OR 97071; also, south of Hwy 211 aka Woodburn-Estacada Hwy Elliott Prairie Christian School--5383 S Schneider Rd, east of Woodburn, OR 97071, across from the church Whiskey Hill Store--5804 S Whiskey Hill Rd, east of Hubbard, OR 97032, store, cafe, & accommodations; Meridian & Whiskey Hill Rd Ninety-One School--5811 S. Whiskey Hill Rd, east of Hubbard OR; Meridian & Whiskey Hill Rd Lenhardt Airpark--29502 S Meridian Rd, east of Hubbard, OR 97032; next to Ninety-One School Meridian Community Hall aka Meridian Schoolhouse--27995 S Meridian Rd, southeast of Aurora, OR 97002; event center Wilsonville City To get to Memorial Park, where the Wilsonville Easter Egg Hunt was held, take Wilsonville Rd east to Memorial Dr, and turn south. On the right is the Wilsonville Public Library (with EV charging), and to the left is Murase Plaza Park, with an amphitheater, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and a water play feature; the map shows a public garden, wooden bridge across Boekman Creek, and a grove shelter, all to the eastern end of the park.
Memorial Park—8100 SW Memorial Dr, Wilsonville OR 97070 Jessica St winds down the hill from Memorial Drive to the athletic fields and amenities of the 126-acre Memorial Park, where the free community Easter Egg hunt is held. Come early for parking. Town Center Park--29600 Park Pl., Wilsonville, OR 97070 My next destination to explore was Town Center Park, the site of the Cherry Blossom Festival I had missed (and hoped there might still be some blooms), and the Korean War Memorial. It’s such a nice family friendly park to picnic & play, and an excellent place for a history field trip to learn more about the Korean War (a moving, touching experience. Wilsonville Town Center and Main St With my vehicle parked at the park, I went wandering about downtown Wilsonville. There are plenty of places to eat and sleep in the vicinity, as well as a YMCA Day Care Center and other places to care for yourself and others. The Library is close at hand. Bullwinkle’s--29111 Town Center Loop W, Wilsonville, OR 97070 A few years ago, when my grandkids were younger, we went to Bullwinkle’s. It’s not really a place for a solo old grandma in a wheelchair, but a fun place if she is accompanied by her favorite teens. It’s been remodeled since we were there, so they have even more exciting things to do. Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo Maserati & Ferrari--25300 SW Parkway Ave, Wilsonville OR Mercedes-Benz of Wilsonville--25035 SW Parkway Ave, Wilsonville OR With a couple young car enthusiasts, I was impressed by the cheerful, patient, and kind staff at these dealerships a few years ago. I took a lot of pics, but I'll spare you so many family fotos. Molalla River State Park--north of Canby OR From Wilsonville take I-5 south, exit 282A onto OR-551, next Arndt Rd NE to S Knights Bridge Rd, and north on N Holly St. The main entrance is at River Park Place, near the intersection of NE 37th Ave and N Holly St. (north of Canby OR) It seemed to make sense to detour just a bit on my way to Triskelee Farm to see this park. I forgot I had visited it previously when I went to the Renaissance Faire in Canby. But, I took a few more fotos and continued on my way. Canby Ferry crosses the Willamette River north of Canby, next to Molalla River State Park I was particularly happy for the opportunity to take the Canby Ferry, and thankfully I happened to have some cash (which is not usual for me). I wanted to take pics up and down river as we crossed, but both were pretty much blocked by machinery & people. Still, I took what I could. I never have yet got out to the interpretive sign on the south side. Triskelee Farm--29700 SW Mountain Rd; E of Wilsonville, south of West Linn, OR; just N of Canby Ferry Triskelee Farm is ever so close to the Canby Ferry. It has perhaps less infrastructure, but it's also much less expensive (or at least it was on Tulip Festival Day), and very cheerfully accommodating as possible. The field parking was pretty coarse pasture grass/ground, so they found me a paved place to park. Though I missed the 1pm tour, they let me just roam around. It's pretty much rough both in and out, and I was very glad for a motor. Outdoors, watch for poop (maybe tours in to see the animals would not be too tidy in a wheelchair). What huge hens they have!. And a big bunny, too. I upgraded my ostrich slider side to ostrich chili: the beans could have been a bit more tender, but the flavor was fine; the ostrich sliders were small but with the jelly, oh so fine! Delectable! In answer to my query, Triskelee Farm emailed “Yes, we are accessible. There are uneven surfaces and there will be mud and animal droppings but we’ve had walkers and wheelchairs in with the animals. Honestly I would recommend coming on a different weekend. With the news coverage we got today it will be a little crazy tomorrow and most of the tours are sold out.” Hebb Park & Oregon Equestrian Center (view of Mt Hood) When I saw the sign, and it was still early in the day, I took off down and around to check out Hebb Park. I didn’t get out to explore, as I wanted to get a picture or two in Oregon City on the way home. It’s really for more able-bodied folks anyway. The views of Mt Hood from Pete’s Mountain Road are so astouding, it’s no wonder wealthy people live along there. At the Equestrian Center I had the chance to get a fantastic foto of the mountain. Hebb County Park-- 500 SW Hebb Park Rd On the Willamette River, nearly opposite the Canby Ferry, but a bit tortuous to get there. North of Triskelee Farms take SW Hoffman Rd east. At the junction with SW Pete’s Mtn Rd, take a right onto SW Riverwood Dr, south to Riverlane Rd, then north on SW Hebb Park Rd til it winds around to the park https://www.clackamas.us/parks/hebb.html Willamette Park & Historic Willamette Main St (now in West Linn OR) It’s generally after I’ve been somewhere that I find out where I was, so I didn’t realize how close I was to Oregon City. Pete's Mtn Rd becomes Tualatin Ave, joins 12th St, meets Willamette Falls Dr in the section of West Linn that was Willamette. Willamette Park--1100 12th St, West Linn, OR 97068 Historic Willamette Main Street seems to have been incorporated by West Linn OR
Brochures & Travel Guides Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory 2022-2023 Travel Planner
Outdoor Recreation Estacada Lake: Timber Park, Milo McGgiver State Park Three Days of Perfect Pedaling Hiking Hidden Gems Mollala River Corridor Recreation Area: hiking, camping, fishing Midweek on the Mountain—Midwinter Months on Mt Hood Timberline, Mt Hood Skibowl, Mt Hood Outfitters Main Streets Make the Willamette River Home Milwukie, Lake Oswego, West Linn, Oregon City Farms & Wineries Oregon Farm Loops—Farmlandia, South Clackamas Four Seasons of Farms & Wineries (great pic of Mt Hood, Liepold Farm 2022 Fall Festival, Boring OR Wine Trail, Tap Trail Arts & Heritage Performing Arts, Heritage Trail, Bigfoot Country\ Communities & Events Milwaukie & Gladstone Happy Valley & Clackamas Lake Oswego West Linn Oregon City Canby (what about Aurora? I want to see more of these two) Wilsonville Molalla Estacada (must return, prob also Detroit Lake) Sandy & Boring Villages of Mt Hood: Gov Camp—Event Highlights (monthly timeline, Lodging, a Dog’s Guide to…, Waterfront Stays, Adventure Base Camps
0 Comments
Note: the following pics are from 2017-2024, mostly 2022. The updates for 2023 and 2024 are at bottom. Chinese New Year 2022, began Feb 1 & ended Feb 15 (Lantern Festival) Lunar New Year Celebrations in Portland Portland Area Events to celebrate Chinese New Year 2022 the Year of the Tiger My tiger travels through a few years. Chinese New Year Celebration at Washington Square Mall, Portland OR--5 Feb 2022 Washington Square Mall Din Tai Fung—popular Taiwanese Restaurant (reservations advisable) Chinese New Year at Vancouver Mall (USA)--2017 had to be postponed 'til March (due to weather) We ate at Panda Express in Cascade Station, Portland OR, for Chinese New Year, 1 Feb 2022, but Vancouver Mall (WA) also has a Panda Express, as does just about every state in the US. Panda Express locations: 82nd Ave & the Jade District, Portland OR Since I had already been to Portland's Chinatown for a previous New Year, and had just discovered all the Chinese (& other Asian) venues along 82nd Ave, I wanted to explore some more there for Chinese New Year 2022. Eastport Plaza is along that way, Portland Community College SE campus is close, on Division St, and so is Portland Nursery, a bit east. More about the Jade District: Hong Phat Food Center, 101 SE 82nd Ave, Portland, OR 97216 Shun Fat Supermarket 5253 SE 82nd Ave, Portland (in Emmert Cali Saigon Mall) Yan Zi Lou restaurant, Jade District, 2788 SE 82nd Ave, Portland, OR 97266--next to Fubonn Shopping Center Chinatown, Seattle WA 2022 Lunar New Year celebrations were postponed 'til Apr 30, and I was fortunate to be able to go back to Seattle to see them, as well as more of the waterfront (more about that in a 2nd post about Seattle). The day began cool and wet (I had to use my umbrella and set out seeking something like a lap quilt for my legs), but the weather took an auspicious turn, the sun came out, and I even had to dig my sun lotion out of my all purpose purse. I had time to do a little exploring of the vicinity, and was very glad to have an electric wheelchair to give me more mileage than I could have managed manually. For more photos of Seattle Chinatown scroll down at See alsoLunar New Year, Seattle WA Hing Hay Park, 423 Maynard Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104 Ho Ho Seafood Restaurant, 653 S Weller St, Seattle, WA 98104 Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience, 719 S King St, Seattle, WA 98104 The Purple Dot Cafe, 515 Maynard Ave S, Seattle WA My own little Lantern Festival for the end of Chinese New Year 2022 Traditional Chinese Music
Shen Yun Portland OR--March 2022 Keller Auditorium I have wanted to go see Shen Yun for years, and over 2 years ago I bought tickets. But the show was postponed twice due to COVID restrictions ☹. At last the day arrived, fortune shined upon me so that the predicted rain cleared and in the end it was a very pretty day. I tried to leave enough time for traffic and to find parking, but some streets were blocked with barricades and the MAX (transit train) blocked one intersection as the time was ticking away. I had checked for some nearby parking, and as it turned out, I got a place in the closest parking garage: Auditorium Park, diagonally across from Keller Auditorium. Naturally, after the show I wanted to have a Chinese dinner, and within a couple blocks I had found August Moon Restaurant. I imagine the Shen Yun performances have brought them good fortune, too. Because next day was 1st Day of Spring, I just had to get Asparagus & (spring) Chicken. I ordered Spring Lamb Szechuan Style to take for the day following. The meats were tender, the vegetables tender-crisp. Loved the chicken dish, the other was a bit (soy) saucy for my taste. Lan Su Chinese Garden, Portland OR We went to see Lan Su Chinese Garden fall of 2019, I returned to gather more about Chinatown there, and we went to the Chinese New Year celebration in 2020. But I didn't use nearly as many photos as I do now, so I'm including some more here. For more info about Portland's Chinatown, see my updated Portland Art Museum--Chinese artifact exhibits Late February 2022 we went to see various exhibits at the Portland Art Museum, among which was a limited collection of ancient Asian art. We found a handicapped parking space open on the street right in front of the museum. Across the way is the Oregon Historical Society Museum, which I have yet to find opportunity to visit. They do offer some online exhibits as well as their print publications. Chinese perspectives from the Oregon Historical Society current exhibits at the OHS Museum https://www.ohs.org/museum/exhibits/index.cfm Chinese in Lewiston ID In early March 2022 I traveled to Lewiston ID in pursuit of Sacajawea's Trail, and unexpectedly, happily happened on the Chinese exhibits at the Center for Arts and History in downtown Lewiston. At the same time they were hosting contemporary artists celebrating women, and one of them was of Chinese heritage. I loved these exhibits, was inspired to try one of the Chinese restaurants in Lewiston, the Mandarin Pine. Loved that experience as well.
Memorials of Chinese Americans in Tacoma WA I saw an exhibit or two about Chinese American experiences at the Washington State History Museum, but moreso at the Chinese Reconciliation Park on Ruston Way. Washington History Museum, 1911 Pacific Ave, Tacoma WA Chinese Reconciliation Park, 1741 N. Schuster Parkway, Tacoma WA 98403 Chinese New Year Jan 22, 2023--the Year of the Rabbit Related to Chinese culture, in 2023 I published a post “Buddha: birth, life, enlightenment, & Cultural Connections”
Chinese New Year Jan 10, 2024--the Year of the Dragon Of course Lunar New Year is not only celebrated in China, but in most Asian countries, as well as worldwide. “15+ Traditional & Cultural Chinese New Year Symbols to Know” (“Chinese New Year Symbols: The Vibrant Tapestry of Tradition and Culture”) Includes a chart of the Chinese Zodiac for 1900-2019 (scroll nearly to the end)Dragon folklore Dragons feature in ancient and medieval tales, but they are just as popular today—witness “Pete’s Dragon”, “Puff the Magic Dragon”, "Dragon Tales", “How to Train Your Dragon” films, programs, and songs . . . P.F. Chang's--7463 SW Bridgeport Rd, Tigard, OR 97224 (Bridgeport Village)
I was attracted to this restaurant in Boise ID, so when I saw it here in the Portland OR area, I took the opportunity to delight my senses. Then I was even more delighted to discover the Dragon mural that was so appropriate for the Year of the Dragon (of course, the Year of the Horse would also be fitting). The food was good, the staff very friendly and attentive (at least before the dinner crowds arrived, I can't say further), and the decor very pleasant. Downtown Oregon City along and off Main Street Historic downtown is walkable, shoppable, and has a nice variety of restaurants from different ethnic food traditions. I didn't take pics of all of them, but a few. More about Dr Barclay along with McLoughlin House below. I was anxious to wheel along the Willamette River at least between downtown and the Willamette Falls Scenic Viewpoint, so I came back to the Municipal Elevator after that. Joseph L. Meek--mountainman, statesman, lawman mural: 10 McLoughlin Blvd aka Hwy 99E, Oregon City, OR (Oregon City Elks Lodge bldg). Plaque reads, "Joseph L. Meek--born 1810 - died 1875. Born in Washington co. VA, Meek leaves home at age 18, arriving in St. Louis in the fall of 1828. Meek signs on as a trapper with the Rocky Mtn Fur Co, remaining in the Rockies until 1839. 1839-1842: Meek travels to the Willamette Valley and eventually starts farming on the 'Tualatin Plains'. 1843: early settlers recognize the need to form a governing body in the Oregon Country. They convene at Champoeg in May 1843. Meek has a pivotal role in establishing an American type of provisional government. Meek appointed sheriff of the Oregon Country. 1848: Meek accepts the duty of messenger to Congress. He arrives in Washington D.C. on May 28, 1848 with dispatches concerning conditions in Oregon. Meek is hosted by his cousin President James Polk. Oregon is admitted as a territory and Joe Meek is commissioned the first U.S. Marshall in the Territory." Hope I got the dates, right, they were hard to read from my photo. It's frustrating when signs & such interfere with murals and other sights of interest. Mt Hood overlooking Oregon City--picture taken from Willamette Falls Drive, Oregon City OR Willamette Falls Scenic Viewpoint--120 McLoughlin Blvd, Oregon City, OR 97045 I wheeled between downtown and the Willamette Falls Viewpoint in my electric chair. I could not have made it with my manual chair: it's pretty steep, quite a way, and I found it intimidating to wheel 3' or so from big trucks zooming past on the highway. I wouldn't recommend walking it with little ones. I was glad for the railing between me and the train that passed by probably 5' away on the other side. There's free parking at the Viewpoint, including a handicapped space without good markings when I was there.
Peter Skene Ogden Search for info on Peter Skene Ogden on the Fort Vancouver WA site Oregon City Municipal Elevator--6 Railroad Ave, Oregon City, OR 97045; Railroad Ave & 7th The historic and kinetic art, the views from the windows with the lines of the city (and beyond) etched into them, and access to the McLoughlin Promenade and the upper part of town makes this a not-to-be-missed experience. McLoughlin Promenade Leaving the Municipal Elevator to the right leads to the overview of Willamette Falls; to the left is McLoughlin House, City Hall, and so forth. McLoughlin House--713 Center St, Oregon City, OR 97045 Next to McLoughlin House is Barclay House. The days and hours they are open are very limited, but even when they are not open for tours there are still monuments to learn from. Upper part of town Some of the photos below were taken in June, some mid February. Museum of the Oregon Territory (MOOT)--211 Tumwater Dr, Oregon City, OR 97045 Clackamas County Historical Society Museum aka Museum of the Oregon Territory End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center--1726 Washington Street, Oregon City, OR 97045 For lots more photos, scroll down to the end of Traveling the Oregon Trail part 3 See also Traveling the OR Trail part 2, near the end And Fort Vancouver WA Clackamas County Heritage Pass and Our Cataclysmic Floodscape brochure
(Temporary Lake Allison made the Willamette Valley what it is) Our Cataclysmic Floodscape brochure
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and Pearson Air Museum Photos taken over the years; those from June 2022 and July 2023 at bottom. More about Chief Factor John McLoughlin at
The Village for laborers, a couple cabins reconstructed at Fort Vancouver Officers Row update, 6-23-2022 We decided to explore Officers Row one day, and parked behind the O.O. Howard House as a sort of midpoint. There's a lovely park area there, a plaza with bistro tables & benches that would be so nice a place for lunch (a coffee/food truck was parked in the parking lot), and an heritage rose garden. We happened into the Director of Education, and what a happy happenstance! She was so helpful and informative. The O.O. Howard House is mostly offices, but she let us see the hallway, marked a map with what was open. We planned our loop route and set out. Evergreen Arboretum plaza & fountain, east entrance of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Evergreen Blvd & Reserve St; and bus stop Huge Anchor on display east of the Visitor Center Visitor Center in June of 2022 Displays & kid activities at the Visitor Center change from time to time. Parade Grounds, plus Cannons & Memorial (the latter north of O.O. Howard House). Update from 1 July 2023 Summerfest--coincided with Canada Day Since Ft Vancouver was essentially part of British Canada/North America at its inception, I thought this such an appropriate way to spend Canada Day. The Grant House--Officer's Row The Visitor Center--addendum A few more pics on the way down to the replica/reconstruction of Ft Vancouver Reconstructed HBC Fort Vancouver (Fort Vancouver National Historic Site)-1001 E 5th St, Vancouver WA 98661 On some days interesting & knowledgeable volunteers offer great insights into life in the past. Not every building is open every day, and the garden (in particular) changes through the seasons, so it's worth revisiting. Summerfest 1 July 2023--Canada Day
I loved the entertainment; lots of family & kid/lawn games & activities, food and vendor booths . . . In the beginning of Oct 2023 I was delighted for the chance to return to the Redwoods and to see even more of the combination of state and national parks, all the way south to Eureka. Here's a link to my first visit in 2020. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park—9 mi east of Crescent City CA on Hwy 199 If you take Hwy 197 to or from the north, off Hwy 101, along the Smith River, you’ll pass Ruby Van Deventer County Park (I didn't have time or opportunity to stop this trip). Redwood National and State Parks Visitor Guide--one of the guides I saved from 2020 to outline my hoped for return to the Redwoods, and then forgot to take it in 2023. Naturally I would expect to find similar info published for any year. Smith River CA In Oct 2023 we stayed at The Pelican Cottage--17265 US Hwy 101, Smith River CA 95567, right by the State Ag Inspection Station (very near the CA/OR state line). It was a quiet pleasant place, inclusive of a game room and small yard with BBQing amenities. We were pretty fortunate with good weather for October (foggy morns, but we didn't get rained on). There were plenty of dishes and linens, and quite nice kitchen/laundry facilities. The parking area was nicely paved and reasonably roomy. There was a place to plug in an RV, but we were charged extra for that. I think it advertised accommodations for 10 or 12, but if you have 5-6 couples, privacy might be an issue for a couple or two. It also advertised pet friendly, but pets were not to be allowed upstairs. The stairs were steep and narrow, but there was a gate at the bottom of them. From the photos sent I thought it would work for a person in a wheelchair, but the master room bed was terrifically tall, and none of the bathrooms were wheelchair friendly (I barely managed toilet, not so with showers--I ended taking "spit baths" with hygiene wipes, do-able for a couple nights). The main floor had a master and a bedroom with bunks. Couches in the living room could sleep a couple people if needed. It did have a full and a 3/4 bath on the main level (no steps), and a half or three-quarter bath upstairs. The living room and master bedroom had nice big screen TVs, game room as well, not sure about the other rooms. I believe they had Wifi and cable TV. California Agricultural Inspection Station--17200 US-101, Smith River, CA 95567
Pelican State Beach--17200 US-101, Smith River, CA 95567 (close to Pelican Cottage above) Picnic tables in view of the ocean, but of course the beach itself is not wheelchair accessible. Picnic areas had scattered trash when I saw them: a good service opportunity--bring gloves and garbage bag. Marine Protected Areas brochure pictured below Don’t Move a Mussel brochure pictured below White Rock Resort Ocean Rentals--16800 US-101, Smith River, CA 95567 (right by Pelican State Beach) Apparently you can buy a cabin, too. Restaurant next to the lodgings looked closed for an extended period. Sea Escape Oceanfront Lodging--15370 US-101, Smith River, CA 95567 (not pictured below, see their site) Clifford Kamph Memorial Park--15100 US-101, Smith River, CA 95567 (not far south of the CA/OR border) Ocean Views RV Park--14015 US-101, Smith River, CA 9556 (not pictured below) Lucky 7 Casino & Hotel, gas & convenience store, and Howonquet/Tolowa Dee-Ni' Nation Lucky 7 Casino & Hotel, dining, fuel mart Howonquet/Tolowa Dee-Ni' Nation
Xaa-wan'-k'wvt (Howonquet) Village & Resort--12420 Hwy 101 N Smith River, CA 95567 The boat by the highway used to be a museum & gift shop, formerly a private yacht.
Smith River CA (town) While all the addresses from the CA/OR border down to where US Hwy 101 crosses the Smith River seem to be called "Smith River CA", the actual little town itself is considerably more circumspect. Below are photos of the town, and a few extra links for places I didn't get to explore. Dollar General--100 Timber Blvd, Smith River, CA 95567; see it from US Hwy 101 Hastings Bulb Growers--437 Borough Ln, Smith River, CA 95567, take Borough Ln off US Hwy 101 Del Norte County Boat Ramp--S Fred D Haight Dr, Smith River, CA 95567; west of Hwy 101 on the Smith River, Google maps isn't showing any street sign of where to turn to the ramp from Fred D Haight Dr, it looks like it's behind private property. Ulrich lane is too far. (Alternatively, Fred D Haight Dr parallels US Hwy 101 south from the town of Smith River). Crescent City CA Florence Keller Regional (County) Park & Campground--3400 Cunningham Ln, Crescent City, CA 95531 West of US Hwy 101 near its intersection with Hwy 199, is Florence Keller Regional (County) Park & Campground, off Elk Valley Cross Road. It's a beautiful place to spend a day or a weekend, offering a group picnic shelter with grills, playground, camping, trails (one accessible), the restroom looks to have flushing toilets. Most of this park is forested, though there's a clearing with rentable group space and amenities. Tolowa Dunes State Park—Kellogg Rd, Crescent City CA, 2 mi north of Crescent City (not pictured below) Tolowa Dunes offers guided horseback riding & facilities. It doesn't appear to have any accessible amenities. Google maps looks like you can get there from Hwy 101 by taking Morehead Rd west off Lake Earl Dr out of Fort Dick (make the turn south of Redwood Elementary School & Earl Grange Hall, but north of Pelican Bay State Prison) . At the west end of Morehead Rd go north on Lower Lake Rd, then west on Kellogg Rd.
Crescent City CA (town) I visited Crescent City in 2020. Here's a link to the places I saw and reviewed then: Below are a few photos I took on my way through town early Oct 2023 Perhaps less picturesque, but useful for travelers . . . these are along US Hwy 101, which is southbound on 'L' St, and northbound on 'M' St. Del Norte County Fairgrounds--421 US-101, Crescent City, CA 95531
Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park—7 mi south of Crescent City, campground 2 mi east of Hwy 101
Wilson Creek Beach pull-out, just south of DeMartin Beach Picnic Area & just north of Lagoon Creek Picnic Area The website warns this is not a safe place to swim. Lagoon Creek Picnic Area--.7mi south of De Martin Beach Picnic Area, Hwy 101 This area was closed early Oct 2023, for my review & photos from 2020, scroll down at the first link below. Klamath CA Trees of Mystery--15500 US-101, Klamath, CA 95548 (actually about 5 mi north of Klamath CA) Motel Trees--15495 US-101, Klamath, CA 95548 Forest Café--15499 US-101, Klamath, CA 95548 Hidden Beach Trail—just north of Motel Trees, Hwy 101, Klamath CA, not well marked at trailhead Anglers Cove Campground--300 Requa Rd, Klamath, CA 95548; also, a boat ramp just west (not pictured here) Klamath River Overlook—further west (northwest) on Requa Rd (not pictured here, see link below) “Requa Road [one of the scenic drives recommended by the National Park Service] Paved; Motorhomes/RVs and trailers not advised-road very steep and narrow. Distance & Duration: ~2¼ miles, one way (to Klamath River Overlook); 15 minutes. Directions: Signed exits off of U.S. 101 located ~2¼ miles north of Klamath, Calif. or ~18½ miles south of Crescent City, Calif. Description: Pass historic Requa, Calif. en route to the Klamath River Overlook perched 650 feet above the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy breathtaking views, whale watching, and bird viewing at the mouth of the Klamath River, where freshwater merges with seawater after a journey of over 250 miles that begins high in the snow-laden Cascade Mountains of Southern Oregon.” See also: In 2020 I provided info & photos of Klamath CA, a modern Native American village with tourist facilities. Scroll down at: A little south of the village of Klamath CA, and not far off US Hwy 101, is the Klamath Tour Thru Tree tourist attraction--430 Hwy 169, Klamath, CA 95548 (exit 769 off Hwy 101 just north of the Klamath River). West of Hwy 101 (on Hwy 169) is Klamath's Camper Corral, east of Hwy 101 is the Log Cabin Diner, as well as the Tour Thru Tree.
The Klamath River The Coastal Drive Another of the scenic drives recommended by the National Park Service is the Coastal Drive. Take Klamath Beach Rd west (exit 768 off US Hwy 101, south of Klamath CA and the Klamath River). Coastal Drive is a loop off Klamath Beach Rd; RVs & trailers prohibited. I took pics of two campgrounds along the way to Coastal Drive, both on the Klamath River: Klamath River RV Park and Kamp Klamath RV Park. Depending on the weather, one may wish a more sunny or a more shady place. Klamath River RV Park--700 Klamath Beach Rd, Klamath, CA 95548 (sunny) Kamp Klamath RV Park--1661 Klamath Beach Rd, Klamath, CA 95548 (shady) Newton B Drury Scenic Parkway—exit 765 and 753 off US Hwy 101, the Redwood Hwy One of the highly recommended scenic drives, has many trails, Big Tree Wayside has an accessible one. Big Tree Wayside really worth taking in Elk Prairie Campground/Prairie Creek Visitor Center—25 mi south of Crescent City, 6.5 mi north of Orick CA; US Hwy 101 (aka Redwood Hwy CA), has several trails. Prairie Creek Visitor Center—25 mi south of Crescent City, 6.5 mi north of Orick CA; US Hwy 101/Redwood Hwy There's a ramp up to the door, but it might need some TLC. A friendly, helpful ranger offered to walk a ways along the trail when I expressed my concern about taking it solo across a bridge and not knowing how steep and narrow it might be for a person in a wheelchair. The other staff kindly covered for him. Choices of trails near the Prairie Creek Visitor Center—25 mi south of Crescent City, 6.5 mi north of Orick CA; US Hwy 101/Redwood Hwy 1.2 mi accessible section Prairie Creek Trail at the Prairie Creek Visitor Center, Hwy 101, 6.5 mi N of Orick CA On my 2020 trip I was cautious about taking this trail on my own in a wheelchair (which was a manual at the time), so I was very glad to be able to venture upon it in 2023, and it was a nice day for it. The ranger walked with me over the bridge to make sure I would be ok. The bridge was rough, and I would have liked a little more between me and the stream below on either side to my right and left, but I was able to do it, and what a great trail through the trees! Elk Meadow Picnic Area/Trillium Falls Trail--258 Davidson Rd, Orick, CA 95555 (a short distance west off US Hwy 101, maybe 3 mi north of Orick). The trail to the Falls is not accessible. Prairie Creek Fish Hatchery—historical landmark, off Hwy 101 a bit north of Elk Meadows (not pictured here) Heart of the Redwoods Cottages & RV--124244, US-101, Orick, CA 95555 Elk Meadow Cabins--7 Valley Green Camp Rd, Orick, CA 95555 Humboldt County
California Redwood Coast Map & Guide. This brochure covers Humboldt county, with highlights of several towns. I was most focused on Eureka, not to say there's nothing else worth exploring/visiting. Photos below from 2 different years' editions.
Orick CA--50 mi north of Eureka CA, US Hwy 101 Redwood National & State Parks South Operations Center--121200 US-101, Orick, CA 95555 Orick Market--121175 US-101, Orick, CA 95555 US Post Office--121147 US-101, Orick, CA 95555 La Hacienda restaurant--121137 US Hwy 101, Orick CA Roosevelt Base Camp motel--121130 US-101, Orick, CA 95555, unobtrusively located on the west side of the Hwy EdeBee’s Snack Shack--12079 Redwood Hwy, Orick, CA 95555 (much cuter than photo below shows, due to sun) The Redwood Gift Shop/California Native Woods--120069 US-101, Orick, CA 95555 Shoreline Fuel Mart--120025 US-101, Orick, CA 95555; convenience store, Aug 2023 notes no longer sells gas Redwood Creek Cottage--121233 US-101, Orick, CA 95555
Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center—turn west off US Hwy 101 at the sign, a mi south of Orick CA (exhibits for the Redwoods parks & seashores) Redwood Creek Beach County Park—US Hwy 101 where you turn for the Kuchel Visitor Center Orick Beach front, Historical landmark—south of Redwood Creek Picnic Area, US Hwy 101 (not pictured here) Ocean by the road, beach pavilion—south of Orick Beach front, US Hwy 101 (not pictured here) Redwood Creek Beach County Park photos Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center exterior The parking lot is flat and has accessible parking spaces. Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center interior. Stone Creek Visitor Center--15336 US Hwy 101 Elk Country RV Resort & Campground—US Hwy 101 between Stone Creek Visitor Center & the road to Dry Lagoon, Humboldt Lagoons State Park Humboldt Lagoons State Park—US Hwy 101, 55 mi south of Crescent City, 40 mi north of Eureka Take McDonald Creek Rd west off Hwy 101, then northwest on Park Rd Harry A Merlo State Rec Area/Big Lagoon County Park—Big Lagoon Rd off Hwy 101, 7 mi north of Trinidad CA (I didn't see in person)
Sue-Meg State Park (formerly Patrick's Point State Park)--4150 Patrick's Point Dr, 5.3 mi to Trinidad, CA--half a mile from US Hwy 101; I didn't want to pay $8 just to drive around taking pictures in the park. Trinidad CA (I didn't visit) From Google Maps: College Cove Falls, Trinidad State Beach, Trinidad Museum CalPoly Humboldt Marine Lab, Trinidad Head Lighthouse, Old Home Beach . . .
Bus system Trinidad south to Eureka, Fortuna & Scotia Vista Point--near California Redwood Coast-Humboldt Co Airport, north end of McKinleyville CA McKinleyville CA—5.6 mi north of Arcata CA (I didn't visit) California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport--3561 Boeing Ave, McKinleyville, CA 95519 Cab Louie—Mckinleyville, Arcata, Blue Lake, Eureka, Manila, Samoa, Trinidad fares
Arcata CA--7.6 mi north of Eureka CA (I didn't visit) Mad River County Park—1 Mad River Rd, Arcata CA 95521 (5 mi northwest of Arcata)
Ma-le'l Dunes, North—off Hwy 255 north of Manila CA Hwy 255 loops west from Arcata down to Eureka, through Manila (note Manila Community Park on Arcata Bay) & almost to Samoa. Just north of Samoa continue south on New Navy Base Rd to Samoa Beach, Fairhaven, Samoa Boat Ramp, Humboldt Bay US Coast Guard Station, and Samoa Dunes Rec Area (thence Lincoln Rd to Samoa Dunes Beach view point, walk out to North Jetty)--Unfortunately, I didn't have a chance to visit any of these. Manila Dunes—off Hwy 255 west from Arcata Humboldt Coastal Nature Center—220 Stamp Lane, Manila CA The Humboldt Bay Maritime Museum--77 Cookhouse Rd, Samoa, CA 95564 Timber Heritage RR museum--930 Vance Ave, Samoa, CA 95564 By Humboldt Bay Maritime Museum, and not far from USS Milwaukee Memorial and beaches Eureka CA
Turn north on ‘X’ street to see Blue Ox Millworks and Historic Village (I would love to have visited if I'd had a couple days instead of half a day in town). Clarion Hotel is at 4th & ‘X’ St, Red Lion Hotel is at 4th & ‘V’ St, and across from it is The SeaDrift Inn at 2014 4th St. Of course, there are are place to eat and get gas all along the way. 'R' St to the North off Hwy 101 is Hwy 255 to Samoa etc. (See above), and to the south it becomes Myrtle Ave south of 5th St (aka Hwy 101 eastbound), which you can take to Cooper Gulch Park & Recreation Center (turn at Myrtle Ave & 8th St). Cooper Gulch Park has baseball and a skate park. Cooper Gulch Rec Center--1720 10th St, Eureka, CA 95501 At 4th & 'Q' St is tiny Kamisu Park, named for Eureka’s sister city, with just a sign advertising Old Town downtown 9 blocks ahead. You can take 'O' St north off Hwy 101 to get to Humboldt County Library (1313 3rd St). The streets in this area are a bit tangled, but it’s worth going west on either 3rd or 4th St and north on 'M' St to drive or walk past the historic (but private) Ingomar Club, where 2nd St Ts into 'M'. Take 2nd St west to 'L' St, then north to Waterfront Dr. East of there on Waterfront Dr is Halvorsen Park. To the west is Adorni Community Center and Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center, and beyond that Waterfront Dr becomes 1st St.
Due to constraints of time and conditions, I decided to pretty much tour the town via my vehicle, street by street with some particular places added. Since some streets are one way, and/or busy, it was a challenge to get good photos, especially without braving the spotty wet weather. Thankfully it didn't start pouring until after I started north again, and then the rain stopped maybe half an hour or so up the road. 'C' & 'D' streets, Eureka CA--traveling south I love historic architecture, and Eureka is full of it. I've included some structures that caught my attention as I drove around. The historic landmark William S. Clark House at 1406 C St was built in 1888 and is listed on the National Register. Under the sobriquet Abigail's Elegant Victorian Mansion Historic Inn, you can arrange for an “opulent” stay in this hallmark home. I saw it on Google Maps, but not in person.
I was there on Columbus Day and thought to eat Italian, but aside from the ubiquitous pizza offerings, none of the Italian places were open until evening. Since I had to be back in Bandon OR that night, I just bought ingredients for Alfredo Shrimp with shirataki noodles & spaghetti squash (which we made and enjoyed greatly). 'E' Street--traveling north from Grant St (about 10th) to 2nd St The historical marker #477 at Opera Alley & 'E' St says, "Eureka was founded as a town in 1850 and incorporated as a city in 1874. Located on the remote northwestern coast of California, Eureka was the region's major port of entry by water in the 19th century before the construction of good access by land, and rose to historical prominence as the major social, political, and economic center of the region. 'Eureka' is a Greek expression and a popular mining term meaning 'I have found it.'" 'F' street--traveling south from 1st to 12th St: feasts for the eyes and ears. Hammond Park--takes up the block bounded by 'E' & 'F' streets, and 14th-15th streets For amenities, check the parks & rec link at the beginning of the Eureka section of this post. 'G' street--traveling north; sights, sounds, & tastes, tantalizing in every sense. Redwood Discovery Museum--612 G St, Ste 102, Eureka, CA 95501 (I didn't get to) A children’s museum that looks so fun inside from their site. 'H' street (and one church on 'I' street)--traveling south; attractive public structures Sequoia Park Zoo--3414 W St, Eureka, CA 95503 (closed when I was there) Continuing south on ‘H’ street, you’ll pass or play at Carson Park (bounded by ‘H’ & ‘I’ streets, Buhne & Carson streets). From the map it looks like it has (reservable) baseball fields, soccer, basketball, playground, a (reservable) group picnic area, and restrooms. I didn't see it in person. From ‘H’ St turn east on Harris St (a one-way street, eastbound). The Boys’ and Girls’ Club is between ‘J’ and ‘K’ streets. At ‘W’ St turn south again to get to the Zoo, which is inside Sequoia Park, and has a number of amenities, including the much touted Redwood Sky Walk. It looks like you can drive through Sequoia Park (not the zoo) on Milo Lane, between ‘W’ St and Glatt & ‘T’ streets.
Eureka Mall & Bayshore Mall (I didn't have time to explore) If you haven’t got mauled at the zoo, you can go to a Mall or two from there thus: from the Zoo, return to Harris St (by going north on ‘W’ St) and drive west, then when Harris becomes a one-way eastbound at ‘I’ St, go north to Henderson St and turn west again. Just north of Henderson between California & Union streets, Pine & Summer streets are interrupted by Da' Yas Park (official address 2605 Pine St, Eureka, CA 95501). Eureka Mall is between Henderson St (westbound one way) and Harris St (eastbound one way), Spring St on the east, Central Ave on the west. I count 5 bus stops around the perimeter of Eureka Mall. Continue on Henderson down the hill to Broadway St and turn south to reach Bayshore Mall. West of downtown Eureka US Hwy 101, aka Redwood Hwy, runs roughly north & south. Along this part it is also called Broadway St, at least south of 15th St. This is a major shopping area, including Bayshore Mall. Da’Yas Park-- 2605 Pine St, Eureka, CA 95501 (I didn't get pics) Eureka Mall-- 800 W Harris St, Eureka, CA 95501 (Didn't get pictures as I passed) Bayshore Mall—3300 Broadway St, Eureka, CA 95501 (Only got a few photos as I passed through the area) Ft Humboldt State Historic Park--3431 Fort Ave, Eureka, CA, park hours 8am-5pm South of Bayshore Mall (Broadway St) is Highland Ave; from there go east a block to Fort Ave then north to the Fort. Not far east from Ft Humboldt, on Highland Ave is Highland Park (Highland Ave & Glen St), which offers tennis, basketball, baseball, and a playground.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites--815 W Wabash Ave, Eureka, CA 95501 A very accommodating staff helped me with my luggage as well as making sure the room would work for me. I always check to see that the bathroom doesn't have issues for me, as soon as I check in. The towels were nicely reachable from my wheelchair, but as is often the case, I had to have the hand-held shower adjusted to within reach, and the shampoos and such put within reach in the shower. Fortuna CA--abt 20 min south of Eureka on US Hwy101/Redwood Hwy Further south--Ft Bragg & Sonoma county CA
Fort Bragg is on the coast, 2.5 hours south of Fortuna CA, so there's a lot to see between the two. It's almost directly west of Reno NV (Lake Tahoe is nearby, on the CA/NV border), 285 mi/5.5 hours by car on CA Hwy 20. It's almost 4.5 hours by car north of San Francisco. I love the beauty of this drive south on Hwy 101 along the Hood Canal, even overcast and foggy days are enchanting. I prefer traveling south, because when traveling north on this fairly narrow road the canal is edgy on the downside. Traveling south the car is on the uphill side of the road. I had some delays for construction. Be aware of logging trucks amongst the traffic. Lake Leland—6 mi north of Quilcene WA, off Hwy 101 along Hood Canal At the top of the list coming south on Hwy 101 from Hwy 104, a good beginning for outdoor recreation:
Quilcene WA--2 hours from Seattle via Hwy 104; 1.5 hours from Olympia going north on Hwy 101 If you like small towns of the Pacific Northwest variety, this is a quaint little place on Hwy 101 along the Hood Canal. It's definitely not glitzy, but has its charms. I loved it, so reminiscent of part of my heritage. Of course outdoor recreational opportunities abound.Quilcene Community CenterQuilcene Campground Hood Canal Ranger District, Quilicene Office--check ahead for hours/days open, but good info on exterior sign Quilcene National Fish Hatchery--off Hwy 101 south of Quilcene WA Not realizing how much there was to see if I'd only gone further on Fish Hatchery Rd, I didn't go far enough. Falls View Campground--off Hwy 101 south of Quilcene WA Mt Walker Viewpoint--road off 101 south of Quilcene WA I wasn't sure how far and what I'd find, so I didn't pursue this. The link below has a video segment about it.
Brinnon WA--Hwy 101 along the Hood Canal, 11 mi south of Quilcene, population about 1000 more or less Point Whitney--3 miles north of Brinnon turn right at Cove Park & Grocery onto Bee Mill Rd nw 2 mi. Plans were to replace the fishing pier over the summer of 2023. On the way is Camp Parsons, est 1919, oldest Boy Scout camp west of the Mississippi River.
Brinnon WA--in town Dosewallips State Park--Brinnon WA, Hwy 101 along the Hood Canal Day Use area accessed next to the gas & convenience store on Hwy 101 (north of the river), Brinnon WA Trails to the beach & observation deck ae closed for the sake of the wildlife at critical times. Day Use area south of Dosewallips River (east side of Hwy 101), Brinnon WA Dosewallips Campground area Pleasant Harbor--2 mi south of Brinnon WA, Hwy 101 along the Hood Canal Pleasant Harbor State Park--no sign on Hwy 101 Signs at the entry of the road (marked on Google Maps as "Old Pleasant Harbor Marina") say Home Port Marina and one lane road ahead. The map shows only a marina and a dock. Just past the state park is Pleasant Harbor Marina Resort (the Marina is private), of which are the following photos. It was a tight little community hugging the hill above the Pleasant Harbor finger of Hood Canal, as far as I could see. Their website makes me wonder if they are developing the whole of Black Point. A bit further south of that on Hwy 101 is Black Point Road which has an off-shoot (first road making a slight left) to Pleasant Harbor Public Water Access with a boat ramp, a little parking, and a small dock (according to the map).
Duckabush Recreation Area--5mi west of Hwy 101 on Duckabush Rd, south of Brinnon WA This recreation area offers hiking & horseback trails, falls, fishing and camping.
Triton Cove--Hwy 101 along Hood Canal south of Brinnon WA Triton Cove Tidelands Triton Cove State Park--a bit south of Triton Cove Tidelands access
Eldon/Hamma Hamma WA--Hwy 101 along Hood Canal between Brinnon & Hoodsport WA Camp Robbinsold—girl scout camp, can be rented/reserved by the public as well (see website for pictures) Hamma Hamm Recreation Area: Hamma Hamma Campground, Lena Creek Campground, trails, rivers, creeks, lakes, beaver pond, falls . . . Mt Washington of the Olympics is not far (which you can also see from the Washington State Law Enforcement Memorial at the Washington State Capitol, Olympia WA). Another place to stay along Hood Canal is Mike's Beach Resort/Motel & his RV place a bit south. On a street behind the Eldon Store is a pretty fantastic looking Airbnb Lilliwaup WA--7.5 mi south of Eldon (4.5 mi north of Hoodsport) on Hwy 101 along Hood Canal
Hoodsport WA--17 mi north of Shelton, 37 mi NW of Olympia WA Such a quaint town! Lengthy Lake Cushman is only 5 mi up WA-119, though maybe longer to the part of it you want to go.
Potlatch WA--2 mi south of Hoodsport, Hwy 101 along Hood Canal The Cushman Powerhouse #2 is such an historic treasure in Potlatch. Potlatch State Park is a nice place to picnic & play at the Hood Canal beach, and there's a restroom . . . not all wheelchair friendly.
Skokomish WA--6.5 mi south of Hoodsport WA; 10 mi or so north of Shelton; 33 mi NW of Olympia With not many more than 600 residents, Skokomish WA is the seat of the Skokomish tribe and reservation. Fill up at Twin Totems gas & convenience store, or be seated in The Drift restaurant at the Lucky Dog Casino Resort (family dining, Prime Rib on Fri & Sat). Picnic, camp, boat, recreate. The tiny town of Union and Twanoh State Park are outside the reservation, up the NE side of the Hood Canal hook, on Hwy 106, off Hwy 101. "Twanoh State Park has restrooms, showers, potable water, year-round camping, boat moorage, a launching ramp, woodland trails, a swimming area, and picnic areas." A Discovery Pass is required to park in the park.
Mason Transit Authority—Olympia, Shelton, Triton Cove-Brinnon, Lake Cushman, Belfair, Bremerton
I conceived of creating a post about the capitals of the Pacific Northwest in 2023. So in May of 2023 I visited Salem OR, July 2023 Olympia WA, and we had visited Boise ID twice: Spring Break 2021 and Aug 2022 (Boise is a favorite of my travel buddy). I've been trying to get to Victoria BC for years, but then COVID restrictions got in the way. I'd like to take the ferry from Port Angeles WA sometime, and try the Victoria Clipper from Seattle. Salem OR
Kim Huong Vietnamese Restaurant--2950 Silverton Rd NE, Salem OR Delicious food, friendly & accommodating staff, pleasant casual atmosphere. A-Dong Market-- 2990 Silverton Rd NE Salem, OR 97303 Oregon State Fairgrounds--2330 17th Street NE, Salem OR 97301 (also accessed from Silverton Rd) Bush’s Pasture Park--890 Mission St SE, Salem, OR 97302 (Bush St off High St) (Including Bush House Museum & Bush Barn Art Center) While the official address seems to be on Mission St, the Museums, rose garden, and playground are on or off Bush St, from High St. There's parking along Bush St, and a small lot at the end of Bush St. Googlemaps shows 3 additional parking lots off Leffelle St, on the south side of the park. Many amenities, and home of the Salem Soap Box Derby.
Churches near Bush's Pasture Park that caught my interest and/or imagination: St. Paul's Episcopal Church--1444 Liberty St SE, Salem, OR 97302--around the southwest corner of Bush...Park Calvary Baptist Church--1230 Liberty St SE, Salem, OR 97302--Liberty & Miller St Deepwood Museum & Gardens--1116 Mission St SE, Salem, OR (just east of Bush's Pasture Park, take 12th St off Mission to get to the parking lot) The Museum is not wheelchair accessible, and some of the paths are borderline (wise to have a companion if you are in a wheelchair), but it's a picturesque place to picnic or plan an event.
Willamette Heritage Center--1313 Mill Street SE, Suite 200, Salem OR Fascinating family centered place to learn about history, weaving, and mechanization, shop eat at the cafe or picnic. $10, Tues-Sat 10am-4pm
Salem OR Amtrak Station--500 13th St SE, Salem, OR 97301 (Southern Pacific RR Station--1918) Although the address doesn't make it apparent, the Amtrak station is not far down the street from the Willamette Heritage Center. The adjacent Greyhound terminal is only a stop: buy tickets online. The Greyhound building announces Salem elevation 163’, 52.7 mi to Portland, 70.9 mi to Eugene. Willamette University--900 State St, Salem OR 97301 Across the street from the back of the Oregon State Capitol, this is truly a handsome as well as an historic campus to wander/saunter. Hallie Ford Museum of Art-- 700 State St, Salem, OR 97301 (Willamette U) Tues-Sat noon to 5pm (4pm entrance) Permanent exhibits "feature works by Pacific Northwest and Native American artists as well as a diverse collection of Ancient, European, American, and Asian art." Special exhibits display the spectrum of Art from the classical to the modern. Additionally, virtual axhibits are offered. Oregon State Capitol--900 Court St NE, Salem, OR 97301; including the parks east, west, & north of the Capitol (historic areas of the building interior were closed for reconstruction while I was there, see virtual tour below) Wilson Park encompasses the Capitol building (east and west of it), while north of the Capitol is Oregon State Capitol State Park, with gardens, monuments, and pavers inset for each county (arranged alphabetically; only a few samples pictured below). Riverfront Park--230 Front St SE, Salem, OR 97301 What a wonderful family-friendly park, full of amenities & activities for every age & interest! Playground, picnic, restrooms, amphitheater, carousel, huge EcoEarth Globe "sculpture" (repurposed sphere used in papermaking), paved trails to hike & bike, group facilities, events . . .
Gilbert House Children's Museum--116 Marion St NE, Salem, OR 97301 (access from Water St) A great place to take young kids. Popular for tours/school groups. Unattended adults not allowed ;-) Union St Bridge (across the Willamette River, aka Union Street Railroad Bridge)—Union & Water St, Salem OR Walk or bike over the river to Wallace Marine Park/West Salem. The bridge is noted on Google maps as part of the Willamette River Water Trail. Wallace Marine Park—200 Glen Creek Rd NW, Salem OR
Marion Square Park--551 Commercial St NE, Salem, OR 97301 "Marion Square Park was platted in the original William Willson 1846 plat of Salem. The park is bordered by Union, Commercial, Marion, and Front Streets and encompasses 3.2 acres. This block-square area was set aside as a park in 1846 and continues in that function today even though it is now somewhat isolated to pedestrian traffic by multi-lane highways. It is easily recognized by a stand of mature conifers planted more than a century ago. For hundreds of years before the Methodists arrived in the Salem area, the site of Marion Square Park had been the permanent camp site for the Chemeketa band and others of the greater Willamette Valley Kalapuyan "tribe". One of the last large encampments on the site occurred in the winter of 1847, according to Henry Brown, writing in 1878 of Chief Quinaby in the Marion County Historical Quarterly. Brown states that all of the Chemeketa and Chemawa Indians formed their winter camp in Salem that year, the camp commencing on the north edge of Marion Square and extending south to North Mill Creek. There were about 400 people camping there when an epidemic of measles broke out. The usual treatment was a stay in a sweat house and then a plunge into the icy water of the creek. This procedure, added to the lack of immunity among the Indians, took a toll of about half the population during the winter. Apparently the burying ground was some distance away from the park site itself. This was one of the last organized encampments at this particular location, however, the park continued as a traditional gathering place and in the 1870s the park was the site of a conference for a treaty. Early settler Fabritus Smith recollects logging in this park during the latter part of the 19th century. In earlier days, the park was surrounded by fine residential development on the river bank; a very small remnant today is nearby Heritage Village. A covered bandstand was built in the park c.1895. A contemporary photograph shows a thickly-wooded park, a 1920 photo, 25 years later, shows much thinning of trees had occurred. The bandstand was in use for about 50 years before its demolition in 1943-44." Historic Downtown Salem Naturally not every place could be included, but below are some that caught my interest or that I thought might be helpful for other travelers (as they would have been for me), narrowed down as best I could. In order to try to organize my wanderings, I went south on Commercial St, then north on Liberty, south on High St, north on Church, south on Cottage, north on Winter, and south on 12th. I have tried to integrate the east & west notables by their proximal north & south locations. Hope not to confuse myself or anyone else! Commercial St (north to south) Liberty St (south to north, with a bit of meandering) High St (north to south) Church St (south to north) Cottage St (a couple at Cottage & Court) Winter St (south to north) 12th St Deepwood Museum & Gardens, Amtrak, Willamette Heritage Center, the east end of Willamette University, and the Oregon Supreme Court (I grouped with Oregon State Capitol) all border on 12th--see sections above. Chira's restaurant--189 Liberty St NE Suite 111, Salem OR (the historic Reed Opera House Mall) A better entrance is about 355 Court St NE. Great food, friendly helpful staff, nice atmosphere/décor.
Holman Riverfront Park Hotel Salem (Tapestry Collection by Hilton)--195 Commercial St SE, Salem OR 97301 Excellent location, easy walk & roll around historic downtown, Riverfront Park, the Capitol, shopping & restaurants, and more. Easy, friendly & helpful valet parking (costed $20/night). Some food options in the hotel. Salem's wider region OSH Museum of Mental Health--2600 Center Street NE, Salem, OR 97301 I arrived after hours (as I was exploring greater Salem), but took some exterior shots anyway. Hours: Thurs--Sat 12-4 pm (check the calendar on their site for weather and holiday closures). Across Center St and off 23rd is the site of the filming of "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" (1975), an historic building now labeled "Board Parole-Post Prison Sprvs". Schreiner’s Iris Gardens—3625 Quinaby Rd NE, Salem OR (actually a little north of Salem) On the way to Salem one fine May day, my eyes were drawn to the magnificent colors displayed by these broad fields of iris along I-5. I just had to find the place on the way home. They also have gifts, supplies, daylilies, lupine seeds, alliums as well as iris, events and catalogue sales.
Powerland Heritage Park—3995 Brooklake Rd NE, Brooks OR 97303 (on my way to Willamette Mission State Park) 15 separate museums plus models, garden, blacksmith shop, country store, etc., gravel parking area. Apr-Sept, Wed-Sun 9am-4pm (and by appt & private events); for public events see:Oregon Fire Service Museum, one of the museums featured here Willamette Mission State Park--about 1/2 hr north of Salem OR, day use, fee Out in the country: don't give up, you'll get there! Outdoorsy place for hikers/bikers, boaters/kayakers, fishers, horse and history lovers, not as much for wheelchair users. Restrooms said to be accessible. Further afield . . . The Oregon Garden--879 W. Main St. Silverton, OR 97381 (abt 1/2 hour NE of Salem), scroll down at Mt Angel OR--abt 1/2 hour NE of Salem OR Woodburn Outlets--half hour north of Salem on I-5 Old Aurora Colony Historical Museum (German & Swiss)—15018 2nd St NE, Aurora OR (abt 40 min NE of Salem) $6, Th-Sat 11-4pm, tours availableSilver Falls State Park--abt 45 min SE of Salem Olympia WA
Brochures below I collected from the Washington State Capitol, Olympia WA In Olympia I explored
Washington State Capitol Complex
Washington State Capitol Campus, west off Capitol Way, Olympia WA 11 min video tour of the Capitol building 4 min video 2001 earthquake Cherberg Bldg-- Primary office building for the state Senate, from WA State Capitol bldg.O'Brien Bldg--Primary office building for the state House of Representatives Inside the Washington State Capitol--416 Sid Snyder Ave SW, Olympia, WA Veterans Memorials on the grounds of the Washington State Capitol Complex, both the west and east sides of Capitol Way between 11th Ave & 14th Ave/Syd Snyder Ave, Olympia WA Memorials & Art Washington State Capitol Campus, east off Capitol Way, Olympia WA Heritage Park, Percival Landing & Marina, Farmers Market Heritage Park There's a switchback path down the steep hill from the Washington State Law Enforcement Memorial at the Washington State Capitol west campus to the south end of Heritage Park. Heritage Park is connected to Marathon Park by a bridge across a narrow part of Capitol Lake. The state plaques along the Arc of Statehood are in alphabetical order. It's walking distance all the way up to Percival Park/Landing for a healthy person. Isthmus Park Percival Landing & Marina, and the Port of Olympia area Percival Landing Park--217 Thurston Ave NW, Olympia, WA 98501 (Columbia St between Olympia Ave & Thurston Ave)
Recreation programs, classes, activities for all ages, events, Senior Services Cynara Restaurant & Lounge--500 Columbia St shopping mall, Olympia WA; Columbia & A Ave, across A Ave from DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Olympia, 415 Capitol Way N, Olympia, WA 98501 Fiddlehead Marina offices--611 Columbia St NW, Olympia, WA 98501 The Olympia Seafood Co, market--411 Columbia St NW, Olympia, WA 98501 Harbor House—events rental, Percival Landing Park Port of Olympia (not just for boats) Olympia Farmers Market—700 Capitol Way N, Olympia WA 98501 Restaurants, gardens, fresh produce & various vendors, parking includes EV charging Gallacci Gardens nearby at Market St & Washington, Batdorf & Bronson Garden nearby on Market St between Washington & Franklin Historic Downtown Olympia
What's to eat on Columbia St Cutz Butchery & Seafood— 510 Columbia St SW, Olympia, WA 98501 (grill at home) Dragon mural—5th & Columbia (food for the eye) Hannah’s Bar & Grille-- 123 5th Ave SW, Olympia, WA 98501 (open mic comedy night Mondays) Hotstone Authentic Korean Cuisine-- 119 5th Ave SW, Olympia, WA 98501 Pho Na ( Saigon Rendezvous), Vietnamese & Thai restaurant-- 117 5th Ave SW, Olympia, WA 98501 Juju's Iced Cream & Frozen Custard—208 4th Ave W., Olympia WA Chicory restaurant--111 Columbia St NW, Olympia, WA 98501 Great Cuisine of India--116 4th Ave W, Olympia, WA 98501 Cascadia Grill—200 4th Ave W, Olympia WA; fun focus on the Pacific Northwest for decor & dining Red Lion Inn & Suites Olympia Governor Hotel--621 Capitol Way South, Olympia, WA 98501 Great location, if only Olympia had not let the historic downtown go down hill. It's a mixed neighborhood as far as attractiveness goes. But the hotel is so close to Heritage Park, restaurants, shopping, historic landmarks & architecture. Not far from the Capitol complex. Rolling/strolling distance to Percival Landing. They have a whole hallway of very cool historic photos (only a few could be included here). One of the staff at the hotel said they were going to be renovating, so I gave them some suggestions. Their ADA room was difficult for me--see photo captions below. More historic downtown--in the vicinity of the Red Lion Inn Other sights to see, things to do around Olympia Hands On Children's Museum--414 Jefferson St NE, Olympia, WA 98501 9-5pm (arrive by 4:45pm), timed entry, $11 ($2 less online), EBT $3, 1st Fri Night $1 (4, 5, 6pm); parking lot $1.50/hr (3 ways to pay) or street parking. East Bay Public Plaza—325 Marine Dr, Olympia WA 98501 WET Science Ctr—500 Adams St NE, Olympia WA 98501 (Mon-Sat 10-4pm, free parking or metered street parking is free on weekends) East Bay Waterfront Park—313 East Bay Dr NEPuget Sound Estuarium—309 State NE, Olympia WA 98501 (open Sat & Sun 11-4pm, $3-$5, $8/family) Food Carts on 4th Ave & Plum St—most open 11am Filling Station Espresso open 7am-4pm https://www.yelp.com/biz/filling-station-espresso-olympia Whitewood Cider Company https://www.whitewoodcider.com/ My Thai Food Truck https://www.yelp.com/biz/my-thai-food-truck-olympia California Tacos https://www.tacoscalifornia.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw_5unBhCMARIsACZyzS1x4YAKCv9ng8sQPZYQwy9dhMwIXIwhnzdp-lZbAk6vMp8Cu87b2JAaArbPEALw_wcB Nineveh Assyrian food https://www.nineveholympia.com/ Arepa Latin-American/Venezuelan Food https://www.arepalatinstreetfood.com/ Yashiro Japanese Garden—2020 Plum St SE, Olympia WA It's a little confusing about how to get to the parking, but turn into the parking for Lee Creighton Justice Center--900 Plum St SE. This little spot is well worth a stop. Bigelow House Museum—918 Glass Ave NE, Olympia WA 98506, on a steep hill. “Susan B. Anthony Visits Bigelow House . . . 1871”. She later worked with the Bigelows to win the vote for women in Washington (which passed in 1910). Bigelow Springs Park—930 Bigelow Ave NE, Olympia WA, on a steep hill. Howard Point Marker—601 East Bay Drive Northeast; East Bay Dr & Glass Ave, Olympia WA Named for Rebecca & Alexander Howard, a black couple that settled in Olympia in the 1850s. I think it was on the paved walk & roll way around the south end of the bay. I took my shot from the road. Squaxin Park—2600 East Bay Drive Northeast, Olympia, WA 98506 East Bay Drive is a divided roadway where it separates the east and west sides of Squaxin Park, with a bridge over East Bay Dr between the two. Otherwise, access the east side going north and the west side going south. Drive a bit beyond the entrances to make a U-turn if needed.
Tumwater & Lacey limited Tumwater
Carlyon Bridge over the Deschutes River--Capitol Blvd, Tumwater WA Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls—110 Deschutes Way SW, Tumwater WA (C St & Deschutes Parkway) Fun & interesting place to picnic, ponder & wander, learn & leisure. Crosby House Museum--703 Deschutes Way Southwest, Tumwater WA Henderson House Museum—602 Deschutes Way Southwest, Tumwater WA There are a few parking spots (including a handicapped one) just as you turn off Deschutes Way (Grant St SW) to go to the Crosby House & Tumwater Historical Park. Tumwater Historical Park--802 Deschutes Way SW, Tumwater WA 98501 The Deschutes River flows into the south end of Capitol Lake here. Lovely place to eat, play, spend the day. Towne Center area--north of Tumwater Blvd on & off Capitol Blvd, Tumwater WA Lots of state offices in the area, as well as public art & fountains. Toyota of Olympia (where I bought my van)--6969 Tyee Dr SW Tumwater WA 98512 Since they are a little out of the way, they really make an effort to keep their customers comfortable while waiting . . . food, massage chairs, glass-walled play area for kids, beside big screens & fireplace . . . When my grandson found the van I needed here, the salesman bent over backward to help me manage the transaction (2 hours' drive away from me). George and Isabella Bush Homestead Historic Site--1400 85th Ave SE, Olympia, WA 98501 On my way to/from Tenino for Oregon Trail Days, I was too tired to get out, unfortunately, so my photos have something to be desired . Lacey WA 2 Seattle by Train, traveled Apr/May 2022 (Olympia-Lacey train station, and crossing Patterson Lake by train) Pirate Festival in Lacey, July 2022 at Thurston County Fairgrounds; mention of nearby parks--see Boise ID Idaho State Capitol--700 West Jefferson St, Boise ID 83702 This is a great field trip to learn about American government in a very visual way, for children and adults. Boise & nearby ID (we made 2 trips to Boise: both with visits to the state Capitol, each with separate photos) Additional posts I've published that relate to Idaho Victoria BC
Provincial Capitals of Canada
Seattle Scottish Highland Games, Enumclaw WA King County Fairgrounds, Expo Center--45224 284th Ave SE, Enumclaw, WA 98022 Traffic and parking requires a lot of patience . . . I'm not sure how early you'd have to come to avoid the crowds. These are country roads, challenged by the amount of traffic of events at the Expo Center. They have large parking areas, some regular lots and some grassy fields, but not enough for the number of vehicles. There is some parking along Warner Ave (aka 456th St), and there's a wide paved path all along it (in fact you might hike/bike all the way from Enumclaw). Some private residences also offered space to park. Parking costs range from $5-15 or so. The fairgrounds have some camping parking facilities as well. Map. Schedule, and info from the Scottish Highland Games 2023, Enumclaw WA Performers played on several stages (pictured below are those I managed to catch). The Seattle Knights performed a humorous take-off of Lorna Doone by RD Blackmore Herding dogs performance Opening Ceremony was held at 12:30pm in the Main Grandstand and included a flag ceremony, National Anthems, parading of the pipes & drums, the clans and dogs. "Walk Through Time"--Viking exhibits & Royal enactors Highland Games Clan Booths--just a few shown below, at less crowded times Vendors--cutlery, clothing, crafts, jewelry, lessons, massage, memorabilia . . . following are a few Indoor Hall of Vendors & Celtic Arts Showcase I had hoped to catch speakers/presentations on "Scottish Music: It's Not Just Bagpipes", or "Gaelic--Scotland's Other Language", but at the time I got to the place they had changed the program offered to "Scotland: An Archaeological Tour." That probably would have been interesting, but there was so much to try to see and do, I didn't stay for it. Another speaker was to present about historic women's clothing. If I had known there was a booth on tracing your Scottish roots, I would have come prepared with some surnames. Food--Scottish options as well as typical fair food: there were a great many tempting choices, below are some Facilities for the Festival The King County Fairgrounds at Enumclaw Other events . . . Enumclaw Pro RodeoBBQ, Brews & Brats (with live music and family friendly happenings) Eugene Scottish Festival--27 May 2023, Irving Grange 1011 Irvington Dr, Eugene, OR 97404
The Place & the Parking At first I accidentally mistook the residential care next door for the Grange. There was a wonderful handicapped spot to park there, but I was informed that they could not accept any of the event parking. I can see why! The 2 handicapped spots at the Grange were long taken by the time I could arrive a half hour late. An attendant told me some had come as early as 7am to be sure to get parking. The overflow parking was in a rough field nearby: totally inappropriate for a person in a wheelchair, and it was full, anyway. Like others, I started to wander the nearby neighborhoods to find a place to park, and none of that was going to work, until I happened upon Arrowhead Park. What a Godsend! I was afraid someone would park too close to me in the park's tiny 2-vehicle parking lot, but there was plenty of room to park along Arrowhead St, off of Irvington, and I could park on the curb and deploy my ramp very nicely. Outdoor Booths--lots of clan booths, of particular interest for culture, geography, family & other history Kid Activity Booth Outdoor Food Vendors Sheepdog Demonstration Team Sport Highland Games--I had printed a schedule, planned ahead how to see the most, but the schedule had changed when I got there, so I was wheeling best I could back and forth to try not to miss anything I hoped to see . . . I wasn't entirely successful. Description of events from Highland Games in Detroit: Outdoor Performers On Stage Indoors Dance participation--taken at a walk for beginners Indoor vendors Food inside Irving Grange #377, 1011 Irvington Dr, Eugene, OR 97404, which has some beautiful paintings. Warm up with something Scotch at home. 30 Things Scotland is Famous For. 10 Cool Facts about Scotland 10 Great Scottish Writers Hamish MacBeth Mysteries by M.C. Beaton 25 movies set in Scotland Scottish Recipes Scots at Oregon Renaissance Faire, Canby OR The third weekend of the Oregon Renaissance Faire in 2023 was to focus on Scotland, but much of all 3 weekends had Scottish elements. More about the Oregon Renaissance Faire in Canby: Portland Highland Games, Gresham OR—Mt Hood Community College 3rd Sat in July July 14-15 2023, no athletics this year; music, dance, entertainment, fanfare (gym & main field) Held for over 60 years . . . Kelso Highlander Festival and Scottish Games--Tam O'Shanter Park, Kelso WA, 9-9-23 I was impressed by the venue as well as the festival in Kelso. I was anxious to get good photos of Scottish dancers, and the crowds were much more manageable, even while they had some great booths and activities. Tam O'Shanter Park--2115 Tam-O-Shanter Way, Kelso, WA 98626
Parade--kids along the route made a grab for candy thrown Highland Games: sheaf toss, weight for height, stone put, weight for distance, hammer throw; I knew I had some previous photos of the caber toss, so I turned my attention to other activities. Opening Ceremonies included posting of flags, piping bands, clans, as well as singing of national anthems, prayer... Clan Booths Various Booths Food Beltaine: "Celtic Fusion band from Portland OR . . . both instrumental and vocal . . . original and traditional . . . Celtic, folk, rock, and classical sources." I loved their music & humor, and obviously many others did as well. Audience participation encouraged. Fort Vancouver Pipe Band It was fun to watch the fancy drumwork, beside enjoying their concert. Tacoma Pipe Band performed as well, but I was tired and needed to go before they took the stage. The two bands combined for the Opening Ceremony, which see above. Dance Competition Playground Tam O'Shanter Park--2115 Tam-O-Shanter Way, Kelso, WA 9862 This family and community friendly park/venue has many baseball and other athletic fields, as well as picnic places. Facilities pictured below. More Scottish Festivals in the Pacific Northwest Oregon Scottish Festivals/Highland Games Portland Highland Games (Gresham) Albany Scottish Highland Games Eugene Scottish Festival Athena Caledonian Games McMinnville Scottish Festival Douglas County Highland Games (Roseburg) Washington Scottish Festivals/Highland Games Tacoma Highland Games Kelso Highlander Festival and Scottish Games Prosser Scottish Fest and Highland Games Bellingham Scottish Gathering Skagit Valley Highland Games & Celtic Festival (Mt Vernon) Seattle/Pacific Northwest Highland Games and Clan Gathering (Enumclaw) Spokane Scottish Highland Games Intrigued by this appealing food cart, we gave Winston’s British Fish and Chips a try. The cod was tender and delicious, the Brit "chips" were tasty, the tartar sauce very good--those were the highlights for me, the rest went along. More Books & media to go along with Scottish celebrations. For such a small town, you would never guess what an impressive celebration Tenino WA puts on annually for Oregon Trail Days; 2023 happened to be the town's 150th anniversary. The town has gone through cycles of boom & bust, but it has maintained a small town character and a remarkable collection of historic artifacts and architecture. I had not realized the settlement was an extension of the Oregon Trail. About Tenino WA
Oregon Trail Days at Tenino City Park All the activities for the celebration were along the length of the park. Pioneer Village some of the activities offered Tenino Depot Museum--Tenino City Park, Park Ave & Olympia St, Tenino WA Crammed with an astounding collection of historic heirlooms.
Behind the Museum Ticknor Schoolhouse--next to Tenino Depot Museum Muzzleloader Guns Demo 9.5 min video muzzleloader loading & huntingThe History of Muzzleloaders 1st Annual Rendezvous Stone wall with carvings Vendors & Booths Food Vendors Facilities at the City Park, Tenino WA Around the Quarry House
Rock & Gems/jewelry show & shop Tenino Quarry Campground--Park Ave & Custer St, Tenino WA (2 blocks south of Sussex) Downtown Tenino WA Shopping Center at the junction of Sussex Ave and Old Hwy 99 SE South Sound Heritage brochure
Hillsboro Chalk Art Festival--July 15-16, 2023 (and the stroll in after days) What a fun event! The Artists and their Artistry The artists were just outlining & beginning their work when I arrived. Intriguing impetus to come back when they would be finished. Performing Artists filled the air with music--I could only catch up with some of them. Vendors & Exhibitors Nearly every booth and vendor offered fun family activities. I tried to get photos before the crowds complicated my efforts to show what there was to see and do. Food Vendors--always favorites for such events! I was so anxious to leave home, hoping to arrive early for parking, I forgot to bring my ice bottles. Then I was desperate for ice to cool my phone camera on such a hot day. Saturday Market--the alternate location (for the sake of the Chalk Art Festival) was an easy roll nearby. By the time I got there, though, it was nearly done. Of course they had food as well as a variety of other vendors, but only one table for eating. Historic Downtown Hillsboro OR I wandered about a bit, though mostly in the vicinity of the Chalk Art Festival. Of course there were permanent places to eat, to expand on the variety from which one could choose. About Hillsboro OR
Hillsboro Station Food Carts & Bar--Baseline St between 3rd & 4th Ave (the bar is inside) A nice variety of cuisines, large indoor dining area, restrooms, a small kid area indoors, some gravel parking on the east side. On a Saturday, for the Chalk Art Festival, I parked across 3rd Ave in the little business center. There's a handy Shell station across from it on Baseline. Look up to see the iconic mountains of the Pacific Northwest at Hillsboro Station Food Carts & Bar
|
Wheelchair WomanI've been in a wheelchair for 30+ years. It poses some challenges for traveling. Maybe others can benefit from my experiences. Archives
March 2024
Categories
All
|