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I wanted to see cherry trees in bloom, and noted that Laurelhurst Park in Portland was said to be a place they could be seen. We'd had plenty of rainy days, I worried that the blossoms might have been rained down. Then the sun came out one day late in March of 2025, so I let my list go, and went. It was actually a Tuesday, but felt like a Saturday . . . 80 degrees and sunny brought out the blankets, picnic baskets, walkers and wheels . . .  I think that's a cherry tree in bloom--the only one I saw, late March 2025 Laurelhurst Park, 32 acres SE Cesar E Chavez Blvd & Stark St, Portland OR 97214 "In 1909, the land that is now Laurelhurst Park was purchased from the estate of William S. Ladd..." Peninsula Park, 16 acres, since 1909 700 N. Rosa Parks Way, Portland OR accessible picnic, restrooms, paved paths splash pad, tennis court, basketball court, horseshoes, soccer field, baseball field historic features, public rose garden with fountain, bandstand, playground, community center, reservable picnic/events areasI don't seem to have photos of this one, but I must have had good reason to consider it worth adding to the post. Saturday (Mar 21, 2020) was a glorious Spring Day, what a day to go to the park! Spring Equinox was 2 days earlier—the earliest it has been in 124 years, according to Farmers Almanac https://www.farmersalmanac.com/spring-equinox-first-day-spring One of my favorite things is to explore different local parks. It's a one-day vacation, without as much packing/unpacking, preparing, adjusting/adapting, and travel. Each community has its own city parks you can generally find online at their Parks and Rec site, or with an online search, such as “city parks in . . . “, and don’t forget county parks . . . Note: keep a roll of TP and a container of disinfectant wipes in your car for using public restrooms.
Access Recreation has reviewed a lot of parks & trails in the Portland area . . . Check out https://accessrecreation.org/home/Access_Recreation_Home.html Here are 16+ great family parks I've visited in the last few years: Farragut Park, Portland--14 acres The main entrance is at the corner of N Kerby Ave and Farragut St. The park has nice paved paths, mostly level, though a little rough from weather in some spots. Nice playground, and swings. Splash area, picnic tables (at least one accessible; most could be reached over flat ground), fenced basketball court, fenced baseball diamond with team benches and fan bleachers & drinking fountain, all make this a family friendly place. Plenty of trees that have been there a long time offer shade. Kids that love big hills will be delighted to play there, and those that love watching trains can see them from behind the fence. Parking is along the streets. If you come from the bus, not all the curbs in the neighborhood are ramped. Restrooms are reported accessible, but they were still closed for the season the day I went. For more info, see https://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/finder/index.cfm?action=ViewPark&PropertyID=119 Mt Scott Park--SE 72nd Ave &, SE Harold St (NE corner of the park), Portland, OR 11 acres Just a block north of Woodstock Blvd and Arleta Triangle Square, not far from Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden and Reed College, this park is truly inviting on a hot summer day. Family & community friendly, it is also flat and wheelchair friendly. Amenities include picnic tables, playground, restrooms, horseshoes, softball, 2 courts for racket sports, and a community center with indoor pool. Bring your own picnic from home, or find plenty of restaurants and groceries nearby to pick up a quick picnic along Woodstock Blvd between Mt Scott & Reed College. Visited May 2023. Also in the near vicinity are Brentwood City Park, Woodstock Park, and Berkely Park, all with similar amenities (except the community center/pool). For more about Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, see Blue Lake Regional Park, Fairview, OR—101 acres This park offers so much it can leave you breathless! Various events and kid activities happen through the summer, including natural gardening. The lake has a swimming beach (children under 5 play in the splash area), boating (rent paddle boats, rowboats, and canoes between Memorial Day and Labor Day), accessible fishing (no license if under 12), and the park also has disc golf, volley ball, softball, basketball, soccer, horseshoes. First come picnic tables, and reservable covered group picnic places, as well as accessible restrooms. Paved paths are pleasant, and the lake had clear water when we visited March 19. There’s a $5/day parking fee (you can get a $40/yr pass good for all the Metro parks--$30 for Seniors, $10 for disabled), but the third Thursday of the month parking is free. Dogs are not allowed but watch your step to avoid walking in duck & goose poop. For more info, see https://www.oregonmetro.gov/parks/blue-lake-regional-park Commonwealth Lake Park, Tualatin Hills Park & Rec District, Beaverton—20-30 acres Such a serene, scenic park when we visited Presidents’ Day 2020. Much of the soccer area was still soggy from winter rains, but the paved path that encircles the lake was great, along with benches and picnic tables. There are very nice accessible fishing piers (lake is stocked with trout, other species), and a playground. It’s in a nice quiet neighborhood. We only saw very limited street parking, and port-a-potties (one looked large enough for wheelchairs). Access from SW Butner Rd, SW Huntington Ave, or SW Foothill Dr. Address: SW Foothill & SW Huntington, or, SW Butner Rd & SW Huntington Ave. More info at http://www.thprd.org/parks-and-trails/detail/commonwealth-lake-park and https://www.google.com/maps/place/Commonwealth+Lake+Park/@45.5116476,-122.8073992,18z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x54950ecc04211c9b:0xca507fa9c19fc5e8!8m2!3d45.5123943!4d-122.8051644 Progress Lake Park, Barrows Park, Westside Trail, Beaverton A guy fishing at Commonwealth Lake Park recommended Progress Lake Park, and we finally found the time and place. There's no parking for the park. We finally parked in Progress Ridge Town Square at SW Menlor Lane & SW Barrows Road. From there you can stroll/roll past La Provence Bistro, Boulangerie & Patisserie (at 15151 SW Barrows Rd, Beaverton https://www.provencepdx.com/ ) to the entrance of Progress Lake Park. There's a bench, a drinking fountain for the standers, for the sitters, and for the 4-leggers. A ramp takes you down to a lower deck and a nice accessible floating fishing pier. The long ramp is reasonable, but you might not mind a little power assist on the way back up. The park is essentially just slightly larger than the little "lake". It has a waterfall that would be pretty when it's running. If you walk/roll (note the clever sidewalk art reminding you that the drains drain into the lake) a couple blocks up SW Menlor Lane, you will come to long and narrow Barrows Park. It's a part of Westside Trail, is paved, nice and wide, and they've managed to fit a few picnic tables (one cut away for wheelchairs), as well as cute animal statues and less ordinary playground equipment for the little ones to climb on. The playground and picnic tables are west of Menlor. Benches are placed along the trail as well. The 6 mile trail "intersects or provides nearby access to several THPRD [Tualitan Hills Parks and Rec] parks, including Progress Lake, Barrows Park, Murrayhill Park, Westside Linear Park, Hart Meadows Park, Summercrest Park and Burntwood Park." PDF maps of 3 segments of the trail can be found at http://www.thprd.org/parks-and-trails/westside-trail We saw indications of lots of parks as we drove to and from Progress Lake Park, and the easiest way I found to reconnoiter them was to Google "parks in Beaverton Oregon" and see them pinpointed and labeled on the map. You can then pursue more info about the one(s) you want to explore more. Henry Hagg Lake--Scoggins Valley Park, Washington county OR; the lake itself is over 1100 acres We finally made it out to Hagg Lake mid Jan 2021. No crowds, a beautiful day--48 degrees. Principle visitors were fishing, augmented by kayakers, bikers, hikers, dog walkers, picnickers. The entrance sign for the park is not where you enter, unless you want to see the spillway. But the road is blocked: authorized vehicles only. Next on the main road you come to the fee station, cost was $7, but we counted MLK Jr Day as non-fee and the ranger station was closed. Maps of the park were for the taking at the fee station. You can pay by card or cash. We drove around the lake on easily driven hills (more of an exercise on bikes), stopping at the several parks-within-the-park (which all had signs/maps showing where you are and other places to go):
Nearest towns are Forest Grove, Cornelius, and Gaston, which look interesting to explore as well. Lacamas Lake & Lacamas Park, Camas WA--Lacamas Park 312 acres, Heritage Park 5 acre It’s a little tricky to get to Lacamas Lake (Heritage Park) and Lacamas Park, Camas WA. From Portland, take Hwy 14 east from either I-5 or I-205 (about 11-12 miles from I-5), then exit 12 for NW 6th Ave, turn left onto Division Street, right turn onto NE 17th Ave, and left onto NE Everett St, and follow that to Lacamas Park (which includes the not-so-very-round Round Lake, an extension of Lacamas Lake). If you want to go to Lacamas Lake, just south of Lacamas Park turn west onto NW Lake Rd, and it’s not far, on the right. The sign says Heritage Park. Lacamas Park is cool and shady in the picnic/playground/restroom area. Some of the picnic areas have grills, charcoal disposal is close by, and the site below says there’s a non-reservable picnic shelter with water and electricity. There are trails, part of which are wheelchair friendly (paved in the picnic area, packed gravel beyond, and further beyond there are some hills that would require a helper for a manual wheelchair). If you want to combine family fun and education, they have some really great informative signs about the water cycle and so forth. The park offers fishing, and perhaps a disabled person could fish off the bridge to the left as you enter the park. Much is changing as of 2020, and this site is not quite up to date, but still useful: https://clark.wa.gov/public-works/lacamas-regional-park Heritage Park on Lacamas Lake has a boat ramp and docks people use to launch kayaks and to fish from, as well as a playground and picnic tables. Behind the small lodge is another access to the lake that can be used for fishing. I recommend having a helper to access the lake. It includes the 3.5 mile Lacamas Heritage Trail of hardpacked dirt/gravel, good enough for strollers and rollers, mostly flat. People like to swim there, but watch for notices of blue green algae outbreaks. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lacamas_Lake Port of Camas-Washougal, Marina Park, Washougal Waterfront Park & Trail, Washington Five miles east of Portland, on the Washington side (just off Hwy 14) is a beautiful new park (or series of parks) with paved path, picnic tables & benches, accessible picnic tables under a shelter, excellent view of Mt. Hood and scenic sunsets. The playground is a short walk from the picnic area and includes a Sasquatch, xylophone, drums, and other natural ways to play. Access to the Columbia River for boating and fishing. There’s a ramp down to the fishing dock, but it is very steep and long. There are informational/educational signs, including about the solar powered accessible restroom. Right next to the Washougal Waterfront Park is the Marina Park and Parker’s Landing Historical Park where the city of Camas hosts great events, such as all-day 4th of July, Christmas ships viewing, etc. You can sign up for news. https://portcw.com/ see also https://portcw.com/parks-trails/ Captain William Clark Park, Washougal, WA—85/93 acres along the Columbia River Just down the road from Port of Camas-Washougal is the Capt. Wm Clark Park, off Hwy 14. The Corps of Discover stopped there 6 days in 1806. There are replicas of their canoes/dugouts as well as canoe and swimming access, reservable covered picnic areas beside individual picnic tables, grills, volleyball standards, accessible restrooms, trails (some paved, some packed gravel ok for wheelchairs). The Lewis & Clark Heritage trail runs along that way, but is not accessible. The goal is to connect the trails all along the Columbia . . . presently the Lewis and Clark Heritage Trail (aka The Columbia River Dike Trail) that goes from Steamboat Landing to Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge—3 miles. See also https://www.clark.wa.gov/public-works/captain-william-clark-regional-park-cottonwood-beach Vancouver Waterfront Park, WA--32 acre urban development with 7.3 acres of park Vancouver, WA is developing its waterfront area into quite a lovely, (mostly so far) accessible walk along the river: A popular pet walk, friendly and family meeting and playing place, eating place, learning place, living and working place, and delight to the senses and soul. There are parking lots near, and street parking, but parking costs between 7am and 6pm. https://thewaterfrontvancouverusa.com/ Google says that you can walk from Waterfront Park to join Columbia River Renaissance Trail via Columbia Way in 15 minutes (.7 miles). The Renaissance Trail paves the way between Esther Short Park in downtown Vancouver (the Washington Vancouver) to Wintler Park 5 miles east. Find out more about wonders of that nature at https://www.cityofvancouver.us/parksrec/page/columbia-river-renaissance-trail-5-miles Vancouver Lake Regional Park, WA--190 acres, 35 developed As with most recreational areas, there is a fee "to park" in the park (you can walk or bike in for free--this park is about 6 miles from downtown). The fees here are not hefty ($3/car), but if you go often, it's worth investing the $30 for an annual pass that is good for 4 regional parks. You can pay with cash or card. This and Frenchman's Bar used to be free in the off-season, but now the fee is year round. This park has wide expanses of grass between the parking and lake, lots of room for kids to run. Make sure they don't run into the water when there's an algae outbreak. It's still a pleasant place to recreate for the day, picnic tables, grills, sand volleyball, beside what you bring for yourself. The playgrounds are far from the water, but near the group picnic shelters and one of the restrooms, so if your kids can't resist getting into what they can see so beautifully before them, you can keep out of sight of the water. Those that can enjoy the views without dipping, needn't be concerned. https://www.clark.wa.gov/public-works/vancouver-lake-regional-park Frenchman's Bar Regional Park--120 acres You can walk, bike, ride horses on a nice 3 mile paved trail between Vancouver Lake and Frenchman's Bar, or, you can drive 2.6 miles by car. 3 miles or less from Vancouver Lake Regional Park, is Frenchman's Bar Regional Park. It offers picnicking, trails, 8 reservable sand volleyball courts, 2 reservable group picnic shelters & 2 playgrounds, as well as fishing. Swimming is not recommended because of swift currents and a steep drop-off. No personal watercraft are allowed, but you can watch the big ships go by. https://www.clark.wa.gov/public-works/frenchmans-bar-regional-park Lewisville Regional Park--159 acres along the East Fork of the Lewis River, Battle Ground, WA "The park was built starting in 1936 as a Works Progress Administration (WPA) recreational center project. The architecture and overall design of the park is intentionally rustic, a common idiom promoted by federal land management agencies in the early part of the 20th century. Lewisville park is the oldest in the county park system and is one of the most significant and lasting examples of the WPA in Clark County." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lewisville_Park A very family and group oriented park. I recommend scoping it out to reserve the site that best fits your family or group. These few pictures can't tell the half of the treasures there. Wend your way through the park on wide, easy trails--most packed gravel, but some paved in the main area. Picnic spots for shade or sunshine, small or large family, many with faucets, grills, charcoal disposal, etc. Beach access for swimming (at your own risk--rapids rise rapidly from calmer waters), fenced tennis/basketball court, a more formal baseball diamond, but other fields could accommodate baseball, soccer, or other netted sports, with your own equipment. Horseshoes and fishing. Of course the restrooms were closed for COVID-19 when we were last there, so I couldn't show what they look like inside. Everyone was courteous and kept their distance as advised. The parking fees are nominal ($3/car, etc). You'll find cars parked just outside the entrance, as walkers/bike riders don't have to pay a parking fee. For more photos & info about the vicinity, see https://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/battle-ground-lake-state-park-wa information, see https://www.clark.wa.gov/public-works/lewisville-regional-park Horseshoe Lake Park, Woodland, WA—85 acres of lake, 6.5 acre park A pretty family park (gorgeous fall colors), with playground, covered and uncovered picnic tables, swimming beach, no-wake boating, paved path, accessible (but a little scary) fishing dock (stocked fishing), skateboard park, restrooms/porta potties, and city events, such as an annual kids fishing derby in April, Easter egg hunt, RC boat racing. See also http://www.lewisriver.com/horseshoe.html and http://www.ci.woodland.wa.us/departments/parks/city.php Marine Park and Louis Rasmussen Day Park, Port of Kalama, WA Only about a half hour north of Portland, via I-5, is Kalama, WA. In fact, I-5 goes right through it. Between the freeway and the Columbia River are train tracks and industrial development. So you might drive by, never guessing what a treasure hugs the Columbia there. You might happen to notice McMenamin's Lodge and Restaurant (tasty food, but a burger is $15; great staff). It's in a choice spot. "The Port of Kalama offers stellar riverfront recreational facilities, including walking and biking paths, playgrounds, covered picnic shelters and the tallest totem pole in the Pacific Northwest! The Port operates a 222-slip marina, and its public beaches are a southwest Washington destination for swimming, windsurfing, fishing and relaxing." There's an amphitheater as well as tennis, basketball, volleyball, horseshoes, and benches facing the river and the sunset. The group picnic shelters are first come first serve, but you can call to put a group event on the calendar. https://portofkalama.com/recreation/ Lake Sacajawea Park, Longview WA—67 acres Very picturesque park with playground, packed gravel trails (ok for wheelchairs), kayaking/canoeing, really nice accessible fishing piers (warm water), picnic tables and benches, bridges, gardens, Solar System Walk, arboretum, Japanese Gardens, wildlife, city events, such as kids fishing derby, Concerts at the Lake (summer evenings), 4th of July. Nice quiet neighborhood, except the end where the hospital parking tends to overflow into the park area. The restrooms needed attention when we were there Nov 2019. See also https://www.mylongview.com/Facilities/Facility/Details/Lake-Sacajawea-12 as well as https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/locations/lowland-lakes/lake-sacajawea and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Sacajawea_(Longview,_Washington)
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Some of the Wildlife they would have seen along the way Sacajawea and the Corps of Discovery (Lewis & Clark Expedition) traveled down the Columbia in 1805, and back up it in 1806. But I am combining the sites for both ways as one trip west down the Columbia River to the Pacific Ocean: the Washington side, and the Oregon side.  Lewis & Clark on the Columbia River--Pasco WA to White Salmon WA, Hood River OR
 Lewis & Clark cruise adventure offered by American Cruise Lines. American Cruise Lines Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, Cape Disappointment State Park, WA An illustrated timeline and exhibits about the Corps of Discovery, and a few other displays pertinent to the area. Click on the photos below to enlarge them. Navigate through them by clicking arrows forward and backward. Note: Lewis & Clark didn't name Cape Disappointment, shipboard explorers before them did.  The Columbia & Snake Comapanion, A Historical Map--from John Day Dam to the Pacific  Sacajawea exhibit at the Idaho State Museum, Boise Sacajawea (Sacagawea) was literally a native of what’s now Lemhi County ID, a member of the local Shoshone tribe. Salmon (Lemhi county) ID is about an 11 hour drive from Portland, if you can drive it without stopping. Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural, and Educational CenterVisitor Info
Local Sites, Salmon ID http://salmonidaho.com/local-sites Salmon Chamber of Commerce6 min video (2009)11 min video (2018) When she was about 10-12 years old, Sacajawea was captured by Hidatsa raiders, and ended up near what would come to be called Washburn ND, where she became second wife to Toussaint Charbonneau, a French-Canadian trapper. When Lewis & Clark, with the Corps of Discovery, reached that area upstream from St Louis via the Missouri River, they built Fort Mandan and hired Charbonneau as another interpreter/guide. Sacajawea came with (as was expected), and became a valuable asset, the only woman of the Corps--a new teenaged mother with her baby boy a few months old. She served as interpreter, part guide, symbol of peace (no war parties would include a woman and child), negotiator, food gatherer, and generally helpful member. One of the multitudes of "ordinary" women across time and place, who bravely faced extraordinary challenges without fanfare. Sacajawea’s Life
The Corps of Discovery exhibits in Boise ID The Corps didn't ever go through Boise, but as Idaho's capitol, exhibits in the capitol bldg and the Idaho State Museum have something to show and tell about the expedition that traveled through northern Idaho, and began the state's history that followed.
Sculpture Lewis & Clark & Seaman—Frontier Park on the Missouri River--500 S Riverside Dr, St Charles MO a suburb of St. Louis The Lewis & Clark State Historic Site, Camp Dubois—Hartford, Illinois
Chamberlain Lewis & Clark Welcome Center & Rest Area-- I-90 at mile post 264.4 Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center on the Missouri River, Chamberlain South Dakota. Photos courtesy Sally Jackson, June 2024 Lewis and Clark Trail brochure showing dates Corps of Discovery, Lewis & Clark Expedition--places to visit in North Dakota  Engaging poster about the Corps of Discovery experience. Corps of Discovery, Lewis & Clark Expedition--places to visit in Montana Sacagawea Rest Park—Darby Montana
Lolo Pass, Long Camp, Weippe, Canoe Camp--Idaho
Orofino ID
 Dam sites along the Corps of Discovery trail: Dworshak Dam on the Clearwater River, then along the Snake River to McNary Dam on the Columbia River. Map from the McNary Dam visitor center.
 The Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center, about 15 min east of Lewiston ID focuses on the life of the Nez Perce (whom the Corps of Discovery found to be life savers and friends). There are informative slides playing that give info about Lolo Pass, Long Camp, Weippe, and Canoe Camp. Lewiston ID to/from The Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center On the north side of Hwy 12 between Lewiston and the Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center is the Clearwater River Casino & Lodge (including RV camping, gas & convenience store). On the south side of Hwy 12 along the Clearwater River are some pull-outs with interpretive signs about the Nez Perce and Lewis and Clark. Where Hwy 95 temporarily intertwines with Hwy 12 on the north side of Lewiston are some great historic metal statues (The North Lewiston Gateway Project) , including Lewis & Clark and Sacajawea with the Nez Perce. You can enjoy some of the art as you travel south into Lewiston, but most of the works are not placed for picture taking. From the frontage road on the south side of the highway I could at least photograph one set.
Lewis and Clark Center (or Confluence Center), at the confluence of the Snake & Clearwater Rivers, Lewiston ID (here are a few images--it was necessary to take the photos at odd angles to reduce reflection) The way is paved, as a part of the 12-13 mi levee trail along the Snake and Clearwater rivers, but requires the power of a helper or a motor for a person in a wheelchair to manage the inclines of the accesses. On one of my trips I was blessed by a kindly person who volunteered both her time and trouble to help me, and on the other I had an electric wheelchair. The levee trail offers wondrous views of the rivers.
Nez Perce County Historical Museum, Lewiston ID (the parts that apply to Sacajawea/Lewis & Clark) This museum complex has so much to explore! And they have taken care to have great interactive exhibits for kids, helping them get a real feel for history. Visited June of 2021. Pioneer Park, Lewiston ID This park not far, up the hill on 5th from City Center. Beside a Sacajawea statue and interpretive signs, a playground and plenty of running room, picnic tables, band shell, and restrooms, event hosting, it has benches overlooking the city and hills beyond. PDF of Lewiston City parks with addresses, acreage, and amenities A few photos from my visit in June of 2021: Lewis-Clark State College, Lewiston ID I had tried to get photos of the Sacajawea statue on campus when I traveled to Lewiston in June of 2021, but in March of 2022 I found a complimentary handicapped visitor parking space right across from the statue, so got out to get better photos. I'm so glad I did! I found more great statues, and the halls named after Lewis, Clark, Jefferson, beside Sacajawea Hall. As is often the case, the campus has great old architecture as well as modern. I intend to inculde more photos in a later post, but here are some especially relevant to Lewis & Clark. Kiwanis Park, Lewiston ID "One of Lewiston’s premier parks this is a beautifully designed area next to the Clearwater-Snake River National Recreational Trail. The park includes Mtn. Dew Skate Park, playground equipment, and picnic tables and shelter. There is plenty of shade for hot afternoons and it’s just a short walk to the Snake River. Kiwanis Park is a location of choice for local fun runs, and events of all sorts." This has one or more access points to the levee trail, which offers wonderful views of the Snake and Clearwater rivers, but I was very glad in 2022 to have an electric chair, as I was on my own, and to get to the crown of the levee would have been impossible without it. Kiwanis park stretches from about 3rd to 11th along the Snake River, and diagonally opposite on 11th food trucks are parked. Address, map, and links to visitor guides: Lewis and Clark Discovery Center, Hells Gate State Park, Lewiston ID (more to see in person, of course) This was a really awesome place to visit, both indoors and out, as well as to get information. Down the road are boating/jetboating access, a campground, and day use area (all requiring fees). For info and photos of jetboating Hells Canyon, get to the bottom of Meriwether’s Bistro, located in Hells Canyon Grand Hotel--621 21st St, Lewiston ID In June of 2021 I found "cedar-planked potlatch salmon", and thought that appropriate for a core of discovery in Lewiston ID. The Hells Canyon Grand Hotel is grand. I arrived at The Meriwether's Bistro after dark, yet was able to be seated with no reservations. They had mood-setting lights in the outdoor dining space and a good band was playing. The waitress was friendly and helpful (I needed a table situated where I could plug in and recharge my phone). The "plank", served with the salmon atop, was rather small and thin. Never mind that, it was still delicious. Planked Potlatch -Planked Potlatch Salmon Bison Burger at Main St Grill, 625 Main, right downtown Lewiston ID In March of 2022 I hoped I might find some native American snacks at The Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center, or somewhere. Maybe there's a place to find something like bison jerky, native nuts/berries/seeds. Next best was to find a Bison Burger at Main St Grill in Lewiston ID. Any of their burgers can be made a bison burger, so I chose the Avocado Bacon Burger (as far from native food as that is--it's just a nod in that direction), and a side salad instead of fries (for the sake of diabetes). I found a parking spot in front of the restaurant and ordered it by phone (because I could not deploy my van ramp: it would be right in the one-way street); the friendly and kind young woman delivered my food curbside. Clarkston WA  Granite Lake Park, Port of Clarkston, Visit Lewis Clark Valley office "This six-acre park is located in the Port of Clarkston. It is landscaped with plants that were native to the area 200 years ago. The park has views of the Snake River and the northern valley hills. There are picnic tables for your enjoyment and paved pathways to take a stroll. You can also access the greenbelt walking path and the dock at Roosters Waterfront Restaurant." In the same area are the Port of Clarkston and the Visit Lewis Clark Valley office. Best Western Inn at Hells Canyon, Bridge Street/Hwy 12, Clarkston WA Not exactly at Hells Canyon, but distances are relative, I suppose. The decor definitely corresponds with the Snake River and Lewis & Clark. This hotel is easy to find, enter, and exit, being right on Hwy 12 aka Bridge St. The lobby is grand, the breakfast area commodious, and they offer not only a nice buffet, but omelets prepared to order. There's a nice gas fire in the dining as well as the patio area. I was pleased to find they had almond milk as well as other choices suitable for diabetics. My room was comfortable, except that I had to fight the bathroom door to maneuver with my wheelchair. I'll save some photos for a later post. Lewis & Clark Timeline at Hells Canyon Resort, Clarkston WA From Bridge St/Hwy 12, turn north at 15th St as if going across the Hwy 128 bridge over the Snake River, but before the bridge watch carefully for the turn to the west to get to the Hells Canyon Resort. Follow Port Dr west to the entrance of the Resort. Just past the buildings, on the right by the water, is the public parking and walkway with the Lewis & Clark timeline embedded in the concrete. Really worth strolling/rolling. Photos below are probably not in order, nor complete. Lewis & Clark Historical Marker Hwy 12 at the side of Red Wolf Golf Club, and Golf Course Pond On the west side of Clarkston WA, Hwy 12, there's a pull-out with an historical marker, the golf course behind it. Just west of that is Golf Course Pond for fishing. The dock looks like it might have a little bit too much of a drop for a solo person in a wheelchair. Might be fine with a helper. West of Clarkston WA, Hwy 12 Chief Timothy Park is an island in the Columbia River 8 mi west of Clarkston WA on Hwy 12, with camping, RV facilities, flush toilets, playground, volleyball, swimming, boating, hot showers in the summer. Lewis & Clark passed through the native village there when Chief Timothy was 5 yrs old. Beyond that a ways is a large Boy Scout Lewis & Clark Trail sign. Hwy 12 leads up into the hills from there (and looking down on the terrain from Google maps could make one dizzy). Alpowa Summit Rest Area--eastbound, Hwy 12 milepost 413, 10 mi east of Pomeroy WA I haven't stopped at the westbound rest stop, I'm not sure it has the interest the eastbound has. Pomeroy WA "Historic Trail: You are now entering Garfield Co. over the historic trail traversed by the explorers Lewis and Clark on their return from the mouth of the Columbia, May 4, 1806," so says the sign on the exterior of Garfield County Museum, a block south of Hwy 12 at 708 Columbia St, Pomeroy, WA. Palouse Falls State Park--past Lyons Ferry/Hwy 261--WA About 20 mi or so west of Pomeroy WA (maybe 12-15 mi north of Dayton WA) on Hwy 12 is the intersection with Hwy 261 to Lyons Ferry State Park. Drive up Hwy 261 about 15 mi to Perry WA, where Lyons Ferry State Park is (past Starbuck WA). A monument in the state park mentions Lewis & Clark passing through on their way west in 1805. Further on is the intriguing Palouse Falls State Park. I wasn't able to get there myself, but my friend Nicole Calvert, a great hiker and photo taker, let me use some of her marvelous pictures. Thankyou, Thankyou!
Tucannon River valley WA About 10 miles north of Dayton WA on Hwy 12, there's a sign for Camp Wooten (30 mi up Tucannon River Rd). It's about 10 miles up Tucannon Rd to the Lewis & Clark campsite memorial. It's a narrowish, undulating 2-lane road, but paved and a pretty drive through the valley. No steep hills. Dayton WA Dayton is an appealing town with a lot of history, including Sacajawea and the Lewis & Clark expedition. I came through in both June of 2021 and March of 2022. I intend to publish more photos of the place in a later post.
Lewis & Clark Trail State Park, WA--Hwy 12 Five miles west of Dayton WA, 4 miles east of Waitsburg, Hwy 12 splits the Lewis & Clark Trail State Park in two. One side is the day-use area, the other is the campground. These are photos from June 2021. In March of 2022 the park was still closed for the winter. Waitsburg and Walla Walla WA Waitsburg is a charming little town, and I intend to post more about it later. From Waitsburg you can continue on Hwy 12 down to Walla Walla, or head west on Hwy 124. Walla Walla has a lot of history, but more to do with the Oregon Trail/Whitman Mission/Fort Walla Walla, which I will cover in part 2 of my Oregon Trail post. In the meantime, here are a few fotos about Lewis & Clark in Waitsburg & Walla Walla. The Corps of Discovery & the Walla Walla Indians Hwy 124 traveling west from Waitsburg Prescott WA is a quiet little hamlet with interesting history, historic architecture, nice little park--I'll post more photos later. But just west of town are a couple interpretive signs relating to Lewis & Clark. Thinking about Lewis & Clark, I noticed the snow on the hills from Agrinorthwest/Eureka Farms, March of 2022. On google maps you can see big circles of irrigated farmland from the air. Ice Harbor Dam, Lake Sacajawea, South Shore Recreation Area, Charbonneau Park
Take Shoreline Dr off Monument Dr to the Indian Memorial as well as Charbonneau Park. You can also take Sun Harbor Dr off Hwy 124, it curves around to become Lakeview Dr. Turn north toward the Snake River on Charbonneau Dr, which becomes Campground Rd. It's not too far off Hwy 124.
Tri-Cities WA and Hwy 730 in WA & OR Sacajawea Historical State Park, Pasco WA This park on the point of the confluence of the Snake and Columbia rivers has a nice little cram packed museum dedicated to Sacajawea and the Corps of Discovery. It has a paved path with interpretive signs, picnic tables, playground, launch accesses, and more amenities. On one visit we saw a flock of turkeys crossing the road to get to the other side. The road to get there goes through the edge of an industrial area, but fear not, eventually it leads to a pleasant park/recreational area. Photos below from Apr 2021, and June 2021. Wallula, Hat Rock, Lewis & Clark Commemorative Trail, McNary Dam overlook--Hwy 730 The Columbia River is the state boundary between Oregon and Washington for most of their border. But as the Columbia bends from the north at the confluence of the Snake River with the Columbia (the Tri-Cities area of Washington), the state line continues straight to the eastern border with Idaho. Thus, following that bend south on Hwy 12 from Pasco WA and Hwy 730 at Wallula Junction, there are more Corps of Discovery sites to discover: a pull-out for Wallula WA history, Hat Rock OR, Lewis & Clark Commemorative Trail from McNary Beach, picnic pull-out overlook of McNary Dam. Wallula interpretive sign pull-out—Hwy 730 just south of the Wallula Junction with Hwy 12
“In his journal, Lewis described the Walla Wallas as ‘the most hospitable, honest, and sincere people that we have met with in our voyage . . . This village consists of 13 large mat lodges. A little before sunset the [Yakimas] arrived. They joined the Wallahwollahs and waited very patiently to see our party dance. The fiddle was played and the men amused themselves with dancing about an hour. We then requested the Indians to dance, which they very cheerfully complied with.”  The Columbia & Snake Comapanion, A Historical Map--from Hells Canyon of the Snake River, Idaho to John Day Dam OR Hat Rock State Park—9 mi east of Umatilla OR, Hwy 730 McNary Dam--east of Umatilla OR Lewis & Clark Commemorative Trail, McNary Beach Park—Beach Access Rd, off Hwy 730, east of the dam
Kennewick & Richland WA Between Hwy 240 and the Columbia River stretches a 400 acre park called "Columbia Park", with lots of picnic options either right on the river or near the other amenities, such as the intriguing "Playground of Dreams", all sorts of sports fields and facilities, Veterans' Memorial, restrooms, and trails. Pertinent to this post is the "Sacajawea Heritage Trail" looping from there over 20 miles as far as Sacajawea State Park at the confluence of the Snake & Columbia rivers in Pasco WA, and for most of the way travels both sides of the Columbia River. There are multiple ways of accessing it, but I first found the access points in Kennewick's Columbia Park. Some access points might be challenging in a wheelchair.
Part Two to come: Sacajawea Trail 2--Traveling down the Columbia River to the Pacific Ocean
Note: Originally published Feb 2022, updates from 2023-Feb 2025 at the end of this page.  Bilalian Odyssey, 1983 by Isaka Shamsud-Din--one of the leading artists of the Pacific Northwest--8'x 16' oil & enamel on panel. I happened on the wondrous work above at the Oregon Convention Center the end of January 2022. It inspired me to publish a post for Black History month, though I wasn't sure I had enough content. Over the years my travels have touched on black lives and experiences a bit, and at last I thought I might have enough for a short post. Next to the panel above was a labeled explanation of who and what is depicted: 1. the 25th Infantry Brigade Black Bicycle Corps 2. Beatrice Cannady, 1st black woman to practice law in OR 3. Golden West Hotel, one of the first black-owned hotels in OR 4. Richard Bogle, one of the first successful black businessmen in the NW 5. America Waldo Bogle, wife of Richard Bogle, civic leader 6. escape from slavery to the west 7. Buffalo Soldiers 8. freed slaves headed west 9-10. George Washington, founder of Centralia WA 11. Sacajawea, Lewis & Clark Expedition 12-13. Lewis & Clark 14. York, member Lewis & Clark Expedition 15. Mary Fields, Pony Express rider, stagecoach driver 16. James Becksourth, mountain man, scout, war chief of the Crow 17. slavery & plantation life 18. pioneer caravans of black settlers 1840s-1850s 19. Moses "Black" Harris, mountain man, trapper, trader, guide 20. cattle drive up the Chisholm trail (at one point 2/5 of cowboys were black) 21. Bill Picket, international rodeo star, mentor to Will Rogers 22. "Peerless" Jesse Stahl, once the best wild horse rider in the west 23. black homesteaders had to do so illegally in OR until 1926 (not allowed to own land)  Mural at Killingsworth St & N. Maryland Ave, Portland OR I have been gathering photos and info for a "Sacajawea Trail" post for a couple years or so. Since York was on that same journey, I thought I'd use some of those to show something of what that expedition might have been like for him. A couple of interesting points were that both York and Sacajawea were invited to participate in giving their input about where to spend the winter on the Pacific Coast, and neither of them received any compensation at the end of their journey (as all the others did). No doubt the assumption was that paying Sacajawea's husband recompensed her as well, but that doesn't do for York. Here is an interesting, and I think even-handed treatment of York, a 2010 half-hour documentary by Oregon Public Broadcasting, and my 2 part post on the Sacajawea Trail:
 End of the Oregon Trail museum's fascinating exhibit of black pioneers in the PNW (Oregon City OR) From an End of the Oregon Trail museum exhibit about black pioneers in the PNW pictured above: “George Washington traveled to Oregon in 1850 with James Cochran, who freed him before making the journey. After spending time in Oregon City, Cochran and Washington eventually settled near present-day Centralia [WA]. Washington cleared and fenced twelve acres, kept two dairy cows, made his own clothing, and maintained a good relation ship with his Native American neighbors. He nearly became a victim of claim jumping—two white settlers wanted his land and as Washington was African American, he had no legal claim. The Donation Land Claim Act of 1850 expressly prohibited African Americans from homesteading in Oregon—he was technically a squatter. The Cochrans had not yet claimed land of their own, so they rushed to Oregon City to file a claim of 640 acres, including Washington’s farm. Cochran later sold all or a large portion to Washington for $3400. The land was at the Skookumchuck and Chehalis River juncture in Lewis Count. He built a one-room cabin and started a pole ferry on the Skookumchuck River. He Farmed, traveling twice annually to Olympia to sell his grain and saved enough to expand his land holdings. In 1872 the railroad laid tracks nearby and Washington saw his opportunity. With the help of his wife and stepson, he filed a plat for the town of Centerville, later to become Centralia in 1875. Washington turned away speculators and sold $10 lots to anyone who would live on the land. He built houses to rent to poor emigrants and refused to sell property to saloons or other disreputable businesses. Over the years he aided many families by loaning them money and seeing that they were fed. He died following a buggy accident at the age of 87 in 1905.” “George Washington Bush, a free-born African American from Pennsylvania, was deterred by Oregon’s first exclusion law. He emigrated from Western Missouri in 1844 in the same party as John Minto. In his diary Minto noted conversations he had with Bush, who expressed concerns for how he would be treated in the Oregon country. After wintering in The Dalles, Bush headed north of the Columbia River, becoming one of the first Americans and very likely the first African American settler. He homesteaded near Olympia, which placed him out of the reach of the provisional government, as it was under the nominal control of the British. He was a successful farmer and fostered respect within his community due to his generosity towards others. Bush’s widespread support in the community became apparent when he was threatened with the loss of his land. After the state of Washington was organized as a territory in 1853, Bush’s homestead was in jeopardy—the Donation Land Act of 1850 excluded blacks from obtaining free land. Michael Simmons, his old friend from Missouri who had journeyed the Trail with him, campaigned to have Bush’s claim recognized. Fifty-five citizens signed a petition urging exemption. The appeal was endorsed by the Washington Territorial Legislature and forwarded to Congress. [The] US Congress approved a special waiver in 1855 which allowed Bush to legally claim his land. During the severe winter of 1852 grain was in very short supply. Instead of opting to sell at inflated prices, Bush said: ‘I’ll keep my grain to let my neighbors . . . have enough to live on and for seeding their fields in the spring. They have no money to pay your fancy prices and I don’t intend to see them want for anything in my power to provide them with.’” “Louis Southworth was born in Tennessee in 1830 and was brought to Oregon from Missouri in . . . 1851 by his owner James Southworth. After settling for some time in Marysville (now Corvallis [OR]), Southworth mined gold in the Jacksonville [OR] area. He earned additional money by playing the fiddle at dancing schools. Southworth discovered that he could make just as much money performing at mining camps and saloons as he could working in the gold mines. In 1858 he purchased his freedom from his owner. As a free man Southworth worked as a blacksmith in Polk County. He became literate and operated a livery stable. After marrying, Southworth moved to Tidewater, near Waldport, where he made a homestead and later donated land for a school. He served on the school board. Southworth operated a ferry for passengers and freight along the Alsea River. He was a well-dressed man who drove ‘a fine team of black horses’. He was well-respected and treated almost as an equal. In 1915 he recalled that the one thing he couldn’t do was attend church. He had been expelled from the local Baptist congregation when members complained about his fiddle playing. ‘So I told them to keep me in the church with my fiddle if they could, but to turn me out if they must, for I could not think of parting with the fiddle. But somehow I hope it’s written in the big book up yonder where they aren’t so particular about fiddles.’—Louis Southworth” “Abner Hunt Francis . . . was targeted with an expulsion order. He and his brother O.B. were free African Americans who had opened a mercantile store in downtown Portland in 1851 on the corner of Front and Stark streets. Abner was a well-known abolitionist, having been an anti-slavery activist in Buffalo, New York before moving to Portland. He was friend to Frederick Douglass, and his background caused concern among Portland’s anti-black community members. It is likely his new store caused unwanted competition. A justice of the peace ordered Francis, who had been charged with violating the Exclusion Law, to leave Oregon within six months. The order was upheld by Oregon’s Territorial Supreme Court and the time limit was reduced to four months. In spite of a petition signed by 211 sympathetic Portland residents to allow an exemption, the legislature tabled the request and never revisited it. The Francis’ continued to reside in Portland until they voluntarily immigrated to Victoria BC in 1860 where Abner was later elected the city’s first black city councilman.” “Moses ‘Black’ Harris was thought to have come West in 1823. As a skilled trapper and explorer, he gained a reputation of being an expert at winter travel. As the fur trade began to decline, he used his skills to act as a guide for missionaries and wagon trains. In 1836 Harris helped guide the Whitmans and Reverned Henry Spalding to the Oregon Country. In 1844 he led a wagon train of around 500 people over the Oregon Trail, including George Washingtn Bush and the Holmes family. In 1845 Harris rode to the rescue of the Stephen Hall Meek wagon train. Meek [led] his party through ynmapped parts of the Oregon’s high desert. He rode ahead when he stumbled on familiar terrain and rode ahead to The Dalles for help. Harris was the only man willing to lend a hand andundertook the rescue effort himself. He secured supplies from local native tribes and brought them by pack horses. Harris met Meek some thirty miles south of The Dalles. He also later saved a group on the Applegate Trail and helped explore the Cascade Mountains in search of an alternative to the Barlow Road. Harris continued acting as a guide until dying of cholera in 1849.” Fort Nisqually gift shop & museum, Tacoma WA Following are fabulous finds from a trip to Fort Nisqually mid August 2022. Another fascinating story, that of a black woman pioneer of southern Oregon: Letitia Carson  "Early African American Idahoans", Idaho State Museum, Boise ID The photo on the left below is from a presentation at Fort Vancouver WA. Naturally, I thought it not appropriate to appropriate all his visuals. I don't have as many photos for the next phase of black history in the Pacific Northwest, but the following links show and tell something about the black experience in the western US during the 1800s. “I am also entitled to be recognized: The Life and Journey of Moses Williams” Lecture at Fort Vancouver WA, Feb 29, 2020; see
Oregon State Historical Society, 1200 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97205, across from the Portland Art Museum "The Remarkable Story of George Washington Bush, The Free Black Man Who Pioneered the Pacific Northwest” by Kaleena Fraga "5 Stops on Your Oregon Coast Black History Road Trip” by Zachary Stocks of Oregon Black Pioneers "Inequity: A Summary of Discrimination in Oregon and the South Coast” Coos History Museum 1st Tues Talk—July 15, 2020 . . . a panel discussion. “Black Americans and Oregon” by Taylor Stewart starts at about 26 min Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St, Vancouver, WA 98660 April of 2022 we finally made it to the Clark County Historical Museum. I was extremely gratified to find along the front sidewalk a colorful and illustrated timeline of Black History for the county, which made it at the same time more local and personal, and was perhaps to some extent a mirror of the wider story of Blacks in America. Photos follow. After having donated most of my children's books to a good cause, I haven't resisted starting to collect more. I love kids' books. Through books we can travel along others' life journeys, their lives enrich our own, and through them our aspirations can take wings. Many good movies have been made about black people's experiences and about black heroes. I noticed some interesting titles at the public library, too, as I was pulling things together for my Learning Lab website delayed in its progress by this Travels site, but eventually they will come together. US Stamps over the years celebrating Black contributions to our nation  I wanted to learn more about and experience a Kwanzaa celebration. In 2019 I found that there's an annual Kwanzaa celebration at the Multnomah County Library--North Portland on Killingsworth and Commercial Ave, so I betook myself to participate. Not all blacks celebrate Kwanzaa, of course, but I think it speaks to the basic principles and values of the black community. Below are some photos from that. Lots of specialty restaurants and food carts are in the area--some African or Caribbean. The Cascade campus of Portland Community College is across the street, which seems to focus a great deal on black history in the US. Portland Art Museum--1219 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97205 We were so crushed for time that we didn't get to see everything Feb 2022, but hopefully there will be another chance with more time. Youth 17 and under are free. I would figure a half day. Below are some of the works by black artists that were on display when we were there. Following are links to more black artists I didn't get to see in person. Oregon Historical Society Museum--1200 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97205 Across the way from the Portland Art Museum is the Oregon Historical Society, including a museum. You can pay for street parking or nearby pay-to-park lots. Their permanent collection is on the third floor. You can also find online resources at their website: A search for “black history” on their website produced 1124 items, perhaps some more useful than others. You can also search "blacks in Oregon".
One incident that caught my attention from Portland's history is the Vanport Flood of 1948. Following are some of many links: “Vanport Flood: Oregon’s Second Largest City that Vanished in a Day” by Tyler Willford, includes a 1 hr video Article “The Vanport Flood” by Michael McGregor (related articles & pics at bottom) Article with photos Article with photo “Vanport Flood begins on Columbia River on May 30, 1948” by Jennifer Ott OMSI Space Science Hall, taken 1 Sept 2022--Portland OR With our world's interconnected communications & media, the Pacific Northwest shares in the wider US experience. Washington History Museum, 1911 Pacific Ave, Tacoma WA I visited the Washington History Museum the end of May 2022, and happened on the exhibit called "The Negro Motorist Greenbook", that ran from Mar 19-June 12 that year. Before I got to that exhibit I saw some pertinent displays in the permanent exhibit "Washington: My Home". Later, as I was exploring the parks along Ruston Way, I saw an interpretive sign in Judge Jack Tanner Park that seemed befitting.  Judge Jack Tanner Park, Tacoma WA More links about blacks in the Pacific Northwest A Timeline of Black History in the Pacific Northwest Pacific Northwest History: African Americans; Tacoma Community College Idaho Black History Museum Boise ID Black History of the Northwest—KUOW/NPR Came across this African-American museum in Seattle online. Here’s a half hour OPB production of African American history in OR Updates for 2023-2024 On my travels in 2023 I came across more interesting Black history of the PNW in Olympia WA  Howard Point, An Olympia Black History Landmark--East Bay Dr & Glass Ave, Olympia WA 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. Though there's a paved walk around the East Bay, and not a good place to park on the east side, I took my shot from the road despite the perils.  Pacific Hotel & Restaurant (Rebecca Howard) mural on the side of The Bread Peddler--222 Capitol Way N, Olympia, WA 98501 George and Isabella Bush Homestead Historic Site--1400 85th Ave SE, Olympia, WA 98501 On the way back to my hotel in Olympia from Tenino WA (for Oregon Trail Days there), I was too tired to get out, unfortunately, so my photos have something to be desired. The structure needs some TLC. I missed the rather inconspicuous Bush family marker when I was on the Washington State Capitol campus. While the following are not just about Blacks who lived in the Pacific Northwest, they are a part of the heritage of all Americans. Different reading levels and interests can make reading and learning a family affair, as everyone can share. Timelines From Black History--Leaders, Legends, Legacies. DK. 96pp, 37 timelines of people & history, 22 brief bios, forward, glossary, index. Sample pages below.
Naturally, I could not include everyone of merit here, but I hope that this post has given a fair range of the experiences and persons of Black Americans. Black History Month of 2025 I went to see the small but very interesting exhibit at the Mall in Vancouver WA. It was focused on notable black persons of the PNW. The library in the mall had a heart hunt to familiarize folks with the library, based on Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, heart surgeon.Daniel Hale Williams, heart surgeon As I prepared to update this post, I naturally wondered what else I might have to share. Here are some photos of people/places that seemed fitting to include. Ben & Amanda Gardener Johnson Brownsville Historic Pioneer Museum—Linn County Historical Museum, Brownsville OR Buffalo Soldiers of Vancouver Barracks, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, WA Alonzo Tucker (1874-1902) A Black boxer, gym owner, shoe shine. Arrested and accused of assaulting a white woman, he fled and hid overnight under the docks. He was found, shot twice, and dragged with a noose around his neck to the site of the alleged incident. He died on the way, but his body was still hung from a bridge/light pole. Black families fled Coos Bay. Coos History Museum--1210 N Front St, Coos Bay OR 97420  The KKK in Astoria, Clatsop County, OR I didn't notice anything about the KKK harrassing Blacks at this museum, but I wasn't looking for it at the time. “The KKK arrived in Clatsop County in 1921 and allied itself with the local protestant churches, supporting Prohibition and municipal reform. One major difference, however, was the necessity to adapt to the largely immigrant population of Astoria. Klan members were primarily native born and Finnish Protestants, who united against local vice, political corruption, and immorality; however the Klan’s ultimate goal was to alienate the Catholic population from the rest of Astoria.” In the end, “The December 1922 fire created an environment of cooperation between groups, which ultimately made the goals of the Ku Klux Klan irrelevant. Astoria grew in population and industry, while fostering an environment of relative peace between ethnic groups.” Heritage Museum--1618 Exchange St, Astoria OR 97103 Juneteenth MLK Jr. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Table: Breaking Bread in Troubled Times National Gallery of Art Eat Like a Civil Rights Activist - Dr. King's Favorite Foods 11 min video by Soul Season Kwanzaa Black Writers I've read more than pictured below (I was greatly affected by Black Boy, admired Maya Angelou after reading her writings, etc.), but that was before I was taking photos to share, so here's what I have to offer.. 15 Most Famous Black Authors of all Times 13 Black Authors to Read  Note: content for this post gathered over several years; last updated 2-22-2025
July 2022 update After a couple years' cancellation due to COVID, the Hawaiian Festival ("4 Days of Aloha") returned to Esther Short Park in 2021, which I missed. In 2022 it was held the weekend of July 21-24. The first 2 days were classes & workshops, Thurs night was a party, Fri night was a concert. Saturday festivities were performers & dancers all day, as well as vendors. Sunday was a 5K/10K run, and a multi-cultural program representing the many peoples of Hawaii. All events/days had a ticket price. I had determined to go on Saturday. In previous years the Saturday festivities were free, but it costed me $10 to get in. I got my ticket ahead online, but plenty of people were buying them at the gate. On my way into downtown at 6th St, I saw a handicapped sign with an arrow. Considering the amount of traffic and the probable difficulty of finding parking, I followed the sign. Not only did I encounter handicapped parking, it was in a garage (costed me $4 for the day), so that my car was protected from becoming an oven. Vancouver Mall--8700 N.E. Vancouver Mall Drive, Vancouver, WA 98662
 Easter bunny photo op at Vancouver Mall, Vancouver WA St. Patrick's festivities at the Mall--16 March 2024 Yeates Academy of Irish Dance Fort Vancouver Pipe Band at Vancouver Mall, 16 Mar 2024 Vancouver Family Magazine Children's Festival--16 Mar 2024 There were many more booths than I could get clear photos without too many people blocking the way; they all seemed to have fun games & prizes for kids. Beside business booths, the Children's Museum had learning and play adventures, the library had a craft table, there was a popular balloon artist, as well as booths by the local school district. I had a great time and collected all kinds of gimmes.
Feb 2025 update--Vancouver Mall for Black History month FVRL (Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries) Vancouver Mall Branch--level 2 Get tax forms, attend story times and other events . . . Mall Library hours: Mon-Thurs 11-7 Fri 11-6 Sat 10-6 Sun 11-6 Businesses do change periodically . . . If looking for something specific, it's worth checking the website above. Exterior Outback Steakhouse--1st level of Vancouver Mall, 8700 NE Vancouver Mall Dr, Vancouver WA 98662 After so many years, and tempting advertising, I decided to give Outback another try. Glad I did!. It was satisfying, especially as the day had turned cold and wet. This time the music volume was much moderated. My waiter was very friendly, patient, helpful. He didn't hurry me, gave me important direction and help.  Chinatown Gate at 4th & Burnside, Portland OR; history about Chinatown at https://pdxsocialhistory.org/stories/portland-s-chinatown-gate.html The Hoxton Hotel is the dark building through the gate. Travel to China (town) and experience the serene sights and sounds of the Lan Su Chinese Garden. Chinatown/Oldtown is the flatland of Portland, OR. You can access it easily by transit if you want to save yourself parking fees and traffic troubles. Look below for info about:
New Year Celebration--Dragon Dance parade, 25 Jan 2020, Year of the Rat; photos above Happy Chinese New Year! What an auspicious beginning for the year of the rat! The forecast was not so propitious: we were worried that it would be a rainy, dismal day in Chinatown for the Dragon parade--but it was beautiful! Parking fills fast (even an hour early), but the little lot across from Lan Su had spaces and only costed $4 for the day, being Saturday (pay by card). I could not find out the parade route, so it was hard to get decent pictures, behind all the tall people, but I got a few that I felt good about, mostly from the point of origin 315 NW Davis St. The paraders made their way around the block, put on a little show next to Lan Su, and entertained along the way toward the Oregon Historical Society Museum, I believe. We didn't try to follow it that far, as I could see very little. The Chinese Garden, had special activities planned for the whole 2 weeks of Chinese New Year, and a few other venues offered some celebratory activities. For more photos, scroll down at "Celebrating Chinese Style"  Portland Chinatown Museum Portland Chinatown Museum & other points of interest
Chinese Eats in Chinatown Chinese restaurants abound all around, and Chinatown is home to other kinds of cuisines (pizza, Mexican, Voodoo Donuts, etc.). But if you want to be thematic, here are some Chinese eateries within a quarter mile of the Lan Su Chinese Garden. Your proof of payment to the Chinese Garden allows you to exit and re-enter on the same day. So here are some other options for Chinese food:
Traveling by Transit (the Max), or Pay to Park Destination Chinatown was my first try at traveling via the Max, Portland’s Light Rail. Expecting to pay (with my Hop pass) once I got aboard, I looked all over for a place to tap it. Well, you tap it before you get on. Look for a post with the necessary place to tap (pictured below). How to ride the Max: https://trimet.org/guide/max.htm Traveling by Max meant crossing over the I-205 freeway, on a fairly boldly declining pedestrian bridge. Despite protections on either side, my initial traverse caused this old grandma some trepidation. I saw all those vehicles speeding below me, a long way down there, and my heart, if nothing else, was quaking as I went. But, I made it, and the next time wasn’t quite as scary. For the first time while riding transit, I was asked by an individual who appeared to be a somewhat less permanent resident, if he could use my cell phone. I was anxious to get to the train (as well as get some photos), and I admit I was glad to have an excuse. Even though he said he would let me hold it as he talked, what could I do if he snatched it and ran? I have found most people are decent, but just enough aren’t that one must be prudent. Parking lots seem plentiful enough near the Chinese Garden, at $5/hour (or all-day rates). We were able to find parking on the street (another time we went), for $2/hour, max 2 hours (3 hours if you are disabled and pay the max). You can pay by card or coin, in 15-minute increments. Look for a rectangular, boxy post-looking thing along the block. After you pay it will give you a ticket to display on the curbside window of your vehicle. Instructions are on the ticket.
Parking Lots: Chinatown Parking 125 NW 4th Ave City Center Parking 220 NW 2nd Ave Smart Park Garage 33 NW Davis St. Here’s an interesting resource: https://en.parkopedia.com It looks like there are a couple disabled parking spots by the Chinese Garden off NW 2nd Ave & NW Flanders St., and 5 hour parking meters on Flanders between 2nd and 4th Ave. A couple places for disabled parking are shown on NW Couch St off 1st Ave (I think). An Opportunity to Invest in the Community, for Entrepreneurs and Philanthropists Most of Oldtown/Chinatown looks like it could use some renovation capital. My dream would be to fund a “hostel” in which the homeless would be housed and prepared in every respect for success in the housing and hospitality industries. Connected with this would be a health clinic, also employing internships for training people who need every kind of mentoring, and recovery help for addictions. I would like to see them help one another as they develop the skills and resilience to build or rebuild their lives. I saw a program that helps at-risk youth in this way: AA and alternatives:  July 19, 2023 updates Chinatown Gate at 4th & Burnside The Hoxton Hotel--15 NW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97209 Chen’s Good Taste Restaurant--18 NW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97209 A website extant invites online orders for delivery. The COVID-19 era was not kind to Chinatown. Charlie's Deli & Delivery--32 NW 5th Ave, Portland, OR 97209 Charlie's seems to have moved to 32 NW 5th Ave, across from the MAX stop. Republic Café & Ming Lounge--222 NW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97209 Lunar New Year Celebration at Lan Su Chinese Garden--Feb 2025, the year of the Snake The night before we went, the celebration had to be canceled, tickets exchanged for another night. I hadn't ventured out since Tues. because it was too cold to melt the snow that fell. But Sat the roads were clear, the sidewalks nearly clear, so we went, as I had wanted for so many years. I dressed in 3-4 layers top to bottom, and my friend gave me a battery heated outdoor blanket, so my paralyzed legs and feet did ok (they can't keep themselves warm). In the vicinity of the Lan Su Chinese Garden  "The Berry Harvest" murals near Main Ave & Powell Blvd, Gresham OR; note Mt Hood Gresham is the 4th largest city in Oregon by population, and it melds into its neighbors so that it's hard to know where the fringes are. In fact, Gresham's boundaries might remind one of fringes, rather than a straight edge or selvage. It has an interesting history, and a lot of inviting things to see and do. Over the years I've trapsed here and there, and following are some of what I've seen.
Historic Downtown--so walkable, with lots of eating options For more about Feather Your Nest Quilt Shop--Corner of 2nd &, 130 N Main Ave, Gresham OR; scroll down at
Heroes Memorial--corner of Powell Blvd & Roberts Ave. Gresham OR Main City Park--219 S Main Ave, Gresham, OR 97080 A family and community friendly park with plenty of amenities. More parking & skate park south of Powell Blvd on Roberts Ave. There's a nice little Japanese garden, but some of its trails are a problem for disabled. Gresham Center for the Arts--NE 2nd St between NE Kelly Ave and NE Hood Ave, Gresham OR I went to 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. More info and photos of that at Gresham Town Fair--300 NW Eastman Pkwy, Gresham OR 97030 Photos below from April 2024. Gresham Shopping Square--390 NW Burnside Rd, Gresham, OR 97030
Gresham Civic Center, City Hall, Police, & Fire--1333 NW Eastman Pkwy, Gresham, OR 97030 Gresham Station--649 NW 12th St, Gresham, OR 97030 Driving along Division Gresham Toyota-- 950 NE Hogan Dr, Gresham, OR 97030 Oregon Trail Shopping Center--2101 NE Burnside Rd, Gresham OR 97030 Washman Car Wash--24161 SE Stark St, Gresham OR 97030, kitty corner from College Square College Square--2800 NE Hogan Dr (Stark St & Hogan Dr), Gresham OR 97030; + Quality Inn & Public Storage  NE Hogan Dr & Red Sunset Dr left, NE 23rd St right; Deep Creek Garden Center, fun lighthouse at storage center beyond; Gresham OR Red Sunset Park--2403 NE Red Sunset Dr, Gresham OR 97030 Such a pretty, family/kid friendly park with fun play equipment, pond with a fountain, Canada Geese, picnic tables with grills, group picnic shelters, restrooms, basketball, soccer & softball fields, rec programs, paved trail Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center--24800 SE Stark St, Gresham OR 97030 Regal Stark Street--2929 NE Kane Dr, Gresham, OR 97030 Right across from Mt Hood Community College, Tues discount prices are great. Mt Hood Community College--26000 SE Stark St, Gresham OR 97030 (official address) Beside the entrance off Stark St, there's more than one entrance off NE Kane Dr.
Hogan Butte Nature Park--757 SE Gabbert Road, Gresham OR What a wonderful find! It was difficult to see & get a photo of Mt Jefferson from a wheelchair, but a guy there helped me out. Nice wide paved walks, though I recommend some form of power for a wheelchair. Picnic tables, group picnic shelter, flushing restrooms, interesting interpretive signs, views of Mt St Helens, Mt Adams, Mt Hood, Mt Jefferson (possibly Mt Rainier & Larch Mtn, if you can recognize). Binoculars a good idea. Powell Butte Nature Park--16160 SE Powell Blvd, Portland, OR 97236 Hogan Butte was a great find, Powell Butte even more spectacular! Seems I couldn't get enough . . . At or near the Visitor Center What at first just appeared to be art or play structures were actually the sizes and purposes of the pipes in the water system. Grasslands exhibit near intersection of Park Center Trail & Mtn Finder Trail Oak Savanna exhibit near trail marker no 6 Forest info--along the Park Center Trail Photos from along the trail up to the Mountain Finder at the top of the hill . . . there were SO many great views of Mt St Helens and Mt Adams I won't include every shot I took . . . The Mountain Finder circle at top of the accessible trail has plaques & pointers. Some views blocked by trees. In the vicinity of 181st-182nd In 2022 I was working on "Savor the Latin Flavors" when a couple of churches as well as Vance Park caught my eye while I was traveling to investigate the little restaurant Sabor Catracho (742 NE 18125 Ave, Portland/Gresham) and Supermercados Mexico (17420 SE Division St, Portland on the fringe of Gresham--see next section below). More info & captioned photos of Sabor Catracho at Supermercados Mexico--17420 SE Division St, Portland OR; right on the fringe of Gresham This was such a wonderful supermarket, with imports from various Latin American countries beside Mexico. Gresham Food Carts--2280 NW Burnside Rd, Gresham, OR 97030 When I was gathering content for my "Buddha . . . & Cultural Connections" post, I was excited to find a food cart offering selections from Singapore at Gresham Food Carts. I found a great variety of cuisines at Gresham Food Carts, and very pleasant dining outdoors and in. I was truly disappointed, however, that the Singapore food cart was not open as scheduled, they didn't answer my calls, and it was too hot to wait for them (in case some unexpected emergency had come up). While there are great advantages to food cart places, one of the disadvantages is that some of the carts may be poorly manned, or have a high turnover rate, though since COVID in particular, small businesses have struggled. Perhaps more reason to support them. Getting to Gresham Wood Village & Fairview Exit 16 off I-84 leads to the geographical puzzle of Wood Village, Fairview, and Troutdale. Wood Village straddles the freeway, with Walmart & other shopping, gas, food, and accommodations on the north, and more of the town south of it. At the intersection of 238th & Halsey (south of the freeway), go east to Donald L Robertson City Park (24300 NE Halsey St, Wood Village). Wood Village Town Center is at 223rd & Glisan.  Welcome & Thanks for Coming sign for Wood Village OR; exit 16 off I-84 puts you on 238th. Wood Village straddles I-84 on the north and south of it. Fairview At the intersection of 238th & Halsey (south of I-84), go west to get to Fairview Woods Wetlands City Park (460 Bridge St, Fairview), Marilyn City Park (Halsey & 223rd), Heslin House Museum & historic jail (223rd north off Halsey), and Cleone City Park (NE 213th Ave north off Halsey). The bus serves Fairview & more: TriMet Bus #77 Broadway/Halsey from NW Portland to Troutdale Chinook Landing Marine Park . . . Blue Lake Regional Park . . . and Salish Ponds Photos taken Feb-Mar 2020. I was particularly impressed with the family and community friendly amenities at Blue Lake Regional Park, as well as lots of room to run, and events. As part of Metro system of parks, it has free parking days every month. Salish Ponds have two access points: one by The Lodges at Lake Salish Apts--20699 NE Glisan St, Fairview, OR 97024, and the other behind Salish Ponds Elementary--1210 NE 201st Ave, Fairview, OR 97024. For more info & photos about Salish Ponds & Blue Lake Regional Park, scroll down at Troutdale I went through Troutdale on my way to Oxbow Regional Park in 2020, and as part of checking out every exit along I-84 in 2020 as well. There have been other reasons for visiting various places in Troutdale, but at last I found opportunity to explore more. Not that I have seen it all, but, here’s a start. I’ve linked the I-84 post later, but here’s a link to the Oxbow trip:A map with some interesting physical features depicted: Columbia Gorge Outlets—exit 17 off I-84, NW Graham Rd, Troutdale OR From the freeway, this is what one sees of Troutdale. Historic Downtown Troutdale OR The Gateway to the Gorge arch is a memorable, defining entry to the historic section of Troutdale. Just past it is Kendall Rd, where the Municipal Court and Multnomah County Sherriff have offices (234 SW Kendall Ct, Troutdale OR 97060). Next is Buxton Rd (just east of Bandit's Bar & Grill), which curves into Troutdale Rd further south. The main street of downtown Troutdale is the Historic Columbia River Hwy. It's a delectable walk, but parking is at a premium. Watch for signs pointing out parking just off to the north, or south a block from the main street (unfortunately, it's rather steep hills up or down to reach them). One of my trips to Troutdale was part of a Quilt Shop Hop in Sept 2024. My Quilting Loft--253 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale, OR 97060; scroll down at The Troutdale House by the Sandy River (wedding venue)--411 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale OR Depot Rail Museum/Visitor Center--473 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale, OR 97060; & Depot City Park Continuing south & east on the Historic Columbia River Hwy Fred E. Harlow House Museum--726 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale OR 97060 Visionary Park--601 SE Jackson Park Rd (just at the bend of the Columbia River Hwy), Troutdale OR 97060 Bronze Pond--902 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale OR 97060; not sure how to access Troutdale Art Center--903 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale OR 97060Bridge over Beaver Creek Glenn Otto Park--1102 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale OR 97060 Glenn Otto Park adopted by NW Steelheaders. No alcohol, no pets, no glass containers, no dogs at the beach. Sugarpine Drive-In--1208 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale OR 97060, next to Glenn Otto Park Sandy River Bridge--1225 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale OR 97060 Lewis & Clark State Recreation Site--go north after crossing the Sandy River Bridge . . . The Historic Columbia Hwy makes an L with Crown Point Hwy Or, take exit 18 south off I-84, the east side of the Sandy River has access to the river & the Rec Site. A Troutdale Loop What looks like an interesting way to lasso in a lot of Troutdale could begin back at Buxton Rd (the west side of Bandit’s Bar & Grill in historic downtown), heading south on Buxton. It curves into Troutdale Rd, which meets Stark St. I haven't yet seen the following parks, but the link below tells about them, as well as those I've seen. Helen Althous City Park--248 SW 7th St, Troutdale OR 97060, west off Buxton Weeden City Park—1323 SE Beaver Creek Lane, Troutdale OR 97060, east of Troutdale Rd, must walk in Kiku Park--1800 SE Beaver Creek Ln, Troutdale OR 97060, east of Troutdale Rd Troutdale City--Parks & Greenways Stark Street from Troutdale Rd west to NE Hogan Drive Stark Street seems to be the cutting edge that divides Troutdale and Gresham. What looks like a worthwhile detour from Stark Street is north on 257th to get to Sunrise City Park. Sunrise City Park--600 SW Hensley Rd, Troutdale OR 97060 (see Troutdale parks link above) Safeway shopping center--25691 SE Stark St, Troutdale OR 97060; with a Walgreens etc. CP City Park (north behind Safeway)--1212 SW 28th St, Troutdale OR 97060 Cannery Park north on McGinnis--2664 SW McGinnis Ave, Troutdale OR 97060 Home Depot--25101 SE Stark St, Troutdale OR 97060 TacoBell/Long John Silver’s etc. in the same place Tonkin Gresham Honda--24999 SE Stark St, Troutdale OR 97060 Troutdale water tower--24451 SE Stark St, Gresham, OR 97030 North on Hogan Dr/242nd Dr from Stark St to Cherry Park Rd, N on 257th Dr eventually becomes Graham Rd Woodale City Park--2326 SW 22nd St, Troutdale OR 97060 (east of 242nd, see Troutdale parks link above) Cherry Park Market Center--2457 SW Cherry Park Rd, Troutdale OR 97060 Safeway gas was a dime or more less than anything else at the time. Imagination Station (Columbia Park)--1900 SW Cherry Park Rd, Troutdale OR 97060 Next to Reynolds HS Helen Althaus City Park—west entrance off 257th Dr (see Troutdale parks link above) Until next time, the next adventure . . . enjoy today, look forward to the future.
 Mike Falls, Golden Ears Provincial Park--24480 Fern Crescent, Maple Ridge BC V4R 2S1, Canada, 40 mi/2 hrs east of Vancouver BC; photo courtesy Nicole Calvert Provincial Capitals of Canada
 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:National_flag_of_Canada 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
 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
Government Street north to Wharf St/Humboldt St intersection
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)
Government Street north toward Chinatown
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.” Yen-Wo Tsung Tsin (Hakka) Society Bldg—w/mural on the side (Government St north of Chinatown gate)
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
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 British Columbia 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 Golden Ears Park--24480 Fern Crescent, Maple Ridge BC V4R 2S1, Canada (40 mi/2 hrs east of Vancouver BC) Photos courtesy Nicole Calvert  USS Turner Joy Naval Memorial Museum, and the marina from above, near the Kitsap Conference Center at Bremerton Harborside--100 Washington Ave, Bremerton, WA 98337; the ferries at hand Coming into Bremerton Puget Sound Naval Shipyard--1127 Charleston Beach Rd W, Bremerton WA 98312 (vehicle inspection gate) off Charleston Blvd (aka Hwy 304) Bug & Reptile Museum--1118 Charleston Beach Rd W, Bremerton, WA 98312; across from the Naval Yard Bremerton WA Boardwalk--at the east end of 2nd St; find parking before you get there (some ideas further on). USS Turner-Joy museum & gift shop In the vicinity of Bremerton Harbor Seattle-Bremerton Ferry--211 1st Street, Bremerton WA Follow the signs carefully, which if you don't want to go to the ferry can be awkward with all the one-way streets. Puget Sound Navy Museum--251 1st St, Bremerton WA 98337; free The Navy Museum can be seen from the ferry terminal, but walk along 1st St to Pacific Ave and cross the street to Puget Sound Naval Shipyard Memorial Plaza. Harborside Fountain Park--251 1st St, Bremerton WA 98337; near the ferries & Puget Sound Navy Museum Could be a pleasant place to picnic for lunch. Bremerton Fountains park--219 Pacific Ave, Bremerton WA 98337 (Burwell St, aka Hwy 304, to Farragut Ave) Just up the street from the entrance to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard And Intermediate Maintenance Facility (1400 Farragut Ave, Bremerton, WA 98337), this interesting art and history-filled park features cut & polished rock sculptures as well as restrooms, tables, & benches (google maps claims). A wider walk/drive around downtown Bremerton Discover Bremerton—links for history, facts, attractions & events, arts, recreation, sister city, transpo, etc PDF chart of parks & amenities, with addresses & map The Roxy Theatre-- 270 4th St, Bremerton, WA 98337; next to the Kitsap History Museum Kitsap History Museum--280 4th St, Bremerton, WA 98337; narrow one-way street, drop off only Seefilm Cinemas-- 655 4th St, Bremerton, WA 98337 Kitsap Regional Library--612 5th St, Bremerton WA 98337 Admiral Theatre--515 Pacific Ave, Bremerton WA 98337; 30 min parking in frontPacific Planetarium-- 817 Pacific Ave, Bremerton WA 98337 More sites that caught my eye around Bremerton Bremerton avenues are north-south, streets are east-west. Kiwanis Park--1701 5th St, Bremerton WA 98337; 2 hr street parking across the street. Blackberry festival at Kiwanis Park (360) 473-5305 Evergreen Rotary Park--1500 Park Ave, Bremerton WA 98337 Farmer’s Market Thur eves late Apr-Sept; (360) 473-5305 Warren Ave Bridge (north-south trending) connects east & west Bremerton over the Port Washington Narrows of Dyes Inlet (one of the waterways of Kitsap Peninsula), off the Puget Sound.
Olympic College--1600 Chester Ave, Bremerton WA 98337; off Warren Ave, aka Hwy 303  Although in the photo it looks diminutive and distant, I caught a glimpse of the amazing view of Mt Rainier from the Warren Ave bridge which spans the Port Washington Narrows, Dyes Inlet of the Puget Sound, Bremerton WA Sheridan Rd is north of the Warren Ave Bridge, in East Bremerton. The Sheridan neighborhood of Bremerton was an historic small town in the 1890s. The west end of Sheridan Rd meets into Lebo Blvd a little west of the inviting, family & friends friendly Lion's Park with its great amenities. I didn't know about it then, but now I do. Illahee State Park--3540 NE Sylvan Way, Bremerton WA 98310 Such a lovely place to spend the day or camp. U.S. Naval Undersea Museum--1 Garnett Way, Keyport WA 98345 I was traveling north toward Port Angeles (on my way to Victoria BC), so though I found this as part of Bremerton sights to see, it's actually north of Bremerton (at the south end of Liberty Bay off Port Orchard waterway--all part of the Kitsap Peninsula and the complex arm, elbow, and fingers of the Puget Sound). This museum seemed so apropos of the area, I just had to include it.
Poulsbo WA I saw something about the SEA Discovery Center aquarium in Poulsbo, so close to Bremerton, and thought it a good way to round out all the waterside explorations of my trip, so went to check it out. Wow! Although I didn't get to explore inside the center, I was so enamored with historic downtown Poulsbo, and it so befit my "Skoal Scandinavia!" post (see link below), that I was pretty ecstatic to have happened upon it (not quite by accident). Poulsbo is at the other end of Liberty Bay from Keyport.
SEA Discovery Center--18743 Front St NE, Poulsbo WA 98370 City of Poulsbo Waterfront Park--18809 Front St NE, Poulsbo, WA 98370 (aka Liberty Bay Waterfront Park) And the Port of Poulsbo. Parking was crowded even in October. Historic downtown Poulsbo WA Poulsbo Maritime Museum, Visitor Center and Gift Store--19010 Front St NE, Poulsbo, WA 98370 Bainbridge Island--east of the Port Orchard channel from Bremerton, east across the Agate Passage Bridge (Hwy 305) from Poulsbo; west of Seattle via the ferry across Puget Sound. Kitsap County
Gig Harbor, Olalla, Port Orchard, Bremerton, Bainbridge Island, Silverdale, Poulsbo, Suquamish, Kingston, Port Gamble, Hansville . . . Since a year ago when a friend and I toured Providence Academy, I was anxious to take my sister on that tour, and to see the enchanting Enchanted Rose with its vintage wares and decor. It was there we learned of the Spools & Stitches Quilt Shop Hop. We thought we might only be able to get to perhaps 4 shops, but as it turned out, we managed to make it to every one, beside a couple of Joann Fabrics and Crafts. The 6" square kits were free, it was $5 for the extensions that would make them into 12" blocks. We chose to do just the 6" squares, for the most part, but that doesn't mean we didn't spend quite a lot of money. 😉 Note: click on photos to enlarge and show captions. Click on the right to advance, left to reverse. The Enchanted Rose Emporium—inside the Historic Providence Academy, 400 E Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver WA The new main entrance to Providence Academy is at the back of the new parking lot off Evergreen Blvd. From that entrance one must wind around a bit to get to the quilt shop. Classes, vintage clothing repairs and alterations, etc. Fort Vancouver is just to the east: for more info about it, scroll down at the 2nd link below. Fiddlesticks--2701 NE 114th Ave, Vancouver WA 98684 A fun place for quilters, with fun quilter events. Paint Chip Challenge display & judging Sept 27-28, 2024 at Fiddlesticks Quilt Shop Kitten in a Pumpkin pattern for the Spools & Stitches Quilt Shop Hop from Fiddlesticks Quiltshop. Quilted Treasures--6400 NE Hwy 99, Vancouver WA 98665 (Hazel Dell) This shop is committed to accessibility (wide aisles), having an employee in a wheelchair. The shopping strip owner is not quite as committed to providing convenient handicapped parking. Just For Fun Quilting--1503 NE 78th St, Vancouver, WA 98665 (Hazel Dell) A dazzling array of samples, kits, and pattern books for embroidery machines is like a carnival of colors and seasons, and for every month of the year, events, and special occasions. JoAnn Fabric & Crafts--7907 NE Hwy 99, Vancouver, WA 98665 (Hazel Dell) Hwy 99 is a major commercial artery in Vancouver, as in other towns of the Pacific Northwest. Feather Your Nest Quilt Shop--130 N Main Ave, Gresham, OR 97030 This quilt shop is right in walkable, shoppable, historic downtown Gresham with lots of restaurants, lovely murals and sculptures, and the history museum. Parking can be at a premium at times; I have parked at the Main City Park before, which is not far. The Main City Park has a Japanese garden as well as playground, heroes memorial, skate park, as well as picnic tables, shelters, and ball park. Post about Gresham coming. My Quilting Loft--253 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale, OR 97060 Located in historic downtown Troutdale, down the street from the Depot Rail Museum & the Visitor Center with a small park along the Sandy River. Within a short walk to the west of the shop is the pleasant Mayor's Square City Park with its beautiful mural, picnic tables, fountain, and sculptures. All along the street are places to shop and eat. The Outlet Mall is off I-84 as you travel toward historic downtown, and driving west through town the Columbia River Hwy takes you past the Harlow House Museum, Glen Otto Community Park on the Sandy River, and across the Sandy River is the Lewis & Clark State Rec Park and access to the Sandy River for fishing and playing in the water. Just on the east of the bridge across the Sandy River is a pull-out with signs of early Oregon History. For more about those, scroll down at the 2nd link below. Sewlarium--3236 N Lombard St, Portland, OR 97217 Very interesting fabrics, personable owner. I didn't get a good pic of the quilting machine. There are a few parking spaces in the rear, including a handicapped one (though not enough room for my ramp to deploy when someone parked next to us). Mike's Drive In (burgers etc) is across the street, Goodwill 3 short blocks east. Sharon's Attic Quilt Shop--2950 SE Cornelius Pass Rd #100, Hillsboro, OR 97123 A large shop with a nice variety of fabrics, accessories, tools, patterns, and kits. I loved the way the fabrics were organized, by colors and themes (natural, holiday, etc). Road "improvements" have made this shop difficult to get to from certain directions. Joann Fabrics & Crafts--7270 NE Butler St, Hillsboro, OR 97124 Located at The Crossroads at Orenco Station, off NE Cornelius Pass Rd & NE Butler St, one of 40 places to shop, eat, explore. This is a huge store, not perhaps at its tidiest when we were there. Quilting Delights--14811 SE Webster Rd, Milwaukie, OR 97267 This quilt shop is indeed a delight. It’s at the intersection of SE Webster & Thiessen Rd among services for the surrounding large residential area. Next to the quilt shop is a little coffee shop, a Subway, and a Shell station. Across the way are Valvoline, Safeway, Starbucks, Papa Murphy’s, a salon, a nail place, dental clinic, State Farm and a laundromat. Cedar Ridge Quilts--19045 S Beavercreek Rd, Oregon City OR 97045 Far from historic downtown Oregon City, Berry Hill Shopping Center offers various businesses and services, restaurants, military recruiting, and Hobby Lobby, beside the quilt shop. Cedar Ridge Quilts has a lot of retro fabrics, as well as a nice variety of other tempting wares and samples. The minimum cut is 1/8th of a yard, but after that they let me add inch by inch, so that I could get just what I needed for 6 1/2" squares. Montavilla Sewing Center--429 1st St, Lake Oswego, OR 97034 (south of Portland) One of 4 locations on their website, this in the quaint walkable, shoppable historic downtown of Lake Oswego, with plenty of interesting places to eat. Lake Oswego city is along the Willamette River (check out Willamette Shore Trolley--311 N State St, Lake Oswego, OR 97034), and includes Lakewood Bay as well as Oswego Lake. Lake Oswego offers intriguing parks. More Quilt Shop Hops & Quilt Shows, flyers & brochures If the dates have passed, check online for next year.
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Wheelchair WomanI've been in a wheelchair for 30+ years. It poses some challenges for traveling. Maybe others can benefit from my experiences. Archives
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