Travel isn’t just about faraway destinations — it’s also about rediscovering the beauty close to home. Here you’ll find a mix of adventures both near and far: from cruising through Alaska’s glaciers and relaxing on the beaches of Turks & Caicos, to exploring the Oregon Coast, Whidbey Island, and hidden gems right here in the Pacific Northwest.
Whether you’re planning a big getaway or just looking for an inspiring day trip from Seattle, my guides blend practical tips, family-friendly ideas, and a love of exploring both near and far.
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Stocker Farms Pumpkin Patch
Discover what to expect at Stocker Farms Pumpkin Patch in Snohomish, WA — from corn mazes and flower fields to pumpkin displays, apple cider donuts, and family-friendly fall fun near Seattle.
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Woodland Park Zoo: Local Mom’s Tips & Favorite Things to Do
Discover Woodland Park Zoo through the eyes of a local Seattle mom who visits almost every week. Get tips on memberships, seasonal events like Pumpkin Bash and WildLanterns, must-see exhibits, and ways to make your zoo days fun and stress-free for kids.
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Family Mount Rainier Day Trip from Seattle (Dog-Friendly Guide)
Looking for a dog-friendly Mount Rainier day trip from Seattle? This guide covers the best family stops — Longmire, Paradise, Reflection Lakes, and Narada Falls — plus tips for parking, picnics, and traveling with kids and pups.
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Honest Review of the Norwegian Encore Alaska Cruise
This post focuses on the ship experience: staterooms, dining, activities, spa, and practical tips. For ports, excursions, and logistics, see our Alaska Cruise Review & Port Guide (link). If you’re packing right now, here’s our Alaska Cruise Packing Guide (link). We sailed in May, so our experience leans cooler weather, but most of this applies…
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Alaska Cruise Packing Guide: What We Wore and Loved
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Packing for an Alaska cruise is a little different than packing for a warm-weather trip. You’ll need layers for changing weather, comfortable shoes for excursions, and outfits that work for both adventure-filled days and relaxing evenings on the ship. We…
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Our 7-Day Alaska Cruise Review: Ports, Highlights & Tips
In May 2025, my husband and I sailed to Alaska with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), round-trip from Seattle on the NCL Encore. While every Alaska cruise season is unique, most of what we experienced — from port highlights to packing strategies — will still be helpful for anyone planning a cruise in 2026 or 2027….
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Turks & Caicos: A Caribbean Paradise
Turks & Caicos has some of the most breathtakingly beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. It’s the perfect place to get away for fun activities and deep relaxation in a luxurious beach setting.
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Seattle Parks: Perfect Spots for Family Fun and Adventure
Seattle is home to some beautiful parks, and springtime can be the perfect time to explore them! Whether you’re strolling with your dog, enjoying a picnic, or letting your kids play on the swings, there’s a park in Seattle for everyone. Here’s a quick guide to some of our favorite spots around the city: Green…
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Exploring Seattle with Kids
Seattle is depicted in the movies as having constantly dreary weather. It’s true that Seattle does have some stretches of solid gray days, however, it gets a great number of lovely days each year. Those precious days are when the city truly comes to life. The clouds break, the sun shines, and Seattle’s stunning beauty…
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Oregon Coast Travel Guide: 12 Best Towns & Things to Do
Explore 12 of the very best locations on the Oregon Coast. With tips and insights about the best activities, food, and fun for families at the beaches.
