ColinSea

This museum is does not charge admission. The building is beautiful. The exhibits are uneven but often interesting. Nice cafe and gift shop.

I haven’t found a better burger in Seattle….

I also like their fish and chips.

The last time I went here the service was not what it should have been (especially given the price).

This mall was once referred to as a “lifestyle center” in a book of short stories by a Seattle author. The label is apt.

This outdoor mall has in recent years gone upscale. Bring buckets of cash and a mania for brand names and you’ll feel right at home.

This is an incredibly popular small restaurant… there’s a line on the sidewalk most of the time. It’s fun to watch the chef make the dishes in the open kitchen. I think the food is OK but not great.

I’m sorry to be the contrarian. I have been to this restaurant several times and have never liked the food. It’s popular with several vegetarians I know.

Thumper’s is no longer in business.

See http://www.thestranger.com/blog/2006/10/the_end_of_thumpers

The hike to Joe Lake just about wiped me out. The trail is overgrown with vine maple and hard to follow. Parts of the trail are extremely steep (pretty much a scramble). It’s too hazardous for most day hikers. I made it; I’m alive to tell about it, but I wouldn’t do it again.

The lake is beautiful, however, and there are lots of wild blueberries.

Known for pouring stiff drinks. Older, “bear” crowd.

Unfortunately, they have recently tripled the admission price. The new pricing may do more harm than good by lowering attendance.