At Bristows, we know the importance of being able to hop in your car and take a drive to clear your mind. Don't let recent events like the election, talk of the second wave of COVID-19, or the current season change have you feeling stressed, a little blue, or trapped. Take a nice drive to keep having fun this fall! The Pacific Northwest is a favorite of many, and as a Washington resident, you already know why. The beauty of Washington abounds in every corner of this beautiful state. There are so many gems that are just a road trip away. Need some fun fall road trip ideas? Look no further.
Port Angeles
Just a hop, skip, and a jump away is amazing Port Angeles. Getting there is easy from Tacoma; it's only about two hours away. Port Angeles is about a 100-mile drive, and you'll get to cross the Tacoma Narrows Bridge! Here is a fun fact for you, the original bridge was named Galloping Gertie. It was rebuilt in 1950 and later renamed by locals Sturdy Gertie. Crossing this bridge will be just the start of your journey. You'll also get to travel over the Hood Canal Floating Bridge. Once you get on US Highway 101, you're on the home stretch to Port Angeles. If you get there early enough, you can enjoy a delicious brunch at one of their top restaurants, such as Chestnut Cottage Restaurant, The Haven, or La Belle Creperie.
After brunch, you can walk off all those carbs on a wilderness walk. The Olympic Discovery Trail (ODT) is accessible just west of Port Angeles. The trail currently spans 70 miles and will eventually be nearly 130 miles long. It is an excellent trail for everyone from all walks of life; it's even bike and stroller friendly. Port Angeles is also only a 30-minute drive from Crescent Lake, a glacial carved lake that is deep, very clear, and a beautiful blue. Do you want to spend the day in Port Angeles instead? There are some fun and funky shops you can hit while in this beach-like town.
Deception Pass
Are you looking for some more plush scenery to enjoy? It is right here in your backyard! Head up I-5 North and take Highway 20 to Deception Pass. This iconic bridge connects Whidbey Island to Fidalgo Island and is only two hours from Tacoma. Once you've crossed the bridge, head south on fabulous winding roads to Ebey's Landing, located on the south part of the island, you'll have views of beautiful beaches, spectacular mountains, rural ambiance, and the plush forest, all on one drive. Driving through farm country on a quiet country road is excellent for chasing away big city stress. On the road down to the landing, you'll pop out of the woods to see you're at the top of a large bluff with a beautiful view of Admiralty Inlet. Then up the hill, you're back on the prairie that has been farm territory for 100+ years. Remember to crack the window and let some of that fresh fall air in while taking in the sweeping views this quaint island has to offer.
After taking in the island scenery, catch a ferry on Whidbey Island's east side in Clinton. While you wait for the next ferry, grab a hot chocolate or americano at Honeymoon Bay Coffee Roasters and take a walk at Clinton Beach Park. There's just something so special about taking a ferry from an island in Puget Sound. If you ever have friends and family visit you, take them on this ferry ride. A ferry ride in the Puget Sound is the essence of Washington flavors.
Leavenworth
Are you up for a drive in the mountains in Washington? Then Leavenworth is your next destination. This Bavarian-styled village sits in the Cascade Mountain range of central Washington. The entire town has Alpine-style buildings with restaurants serving German beer and food; Leavenworth is famous for its Christmas Lighting Festival. However, due to COVID-19, it has been canceled in 2020. The town will still be displaying lights (over half a million and counting), and they will be on every day from Thanksgiving through Valentine's Day. Take a stroll on the Wenatchee River. Their Waterfront Park is a prime place to birdwatch; it is a renowned habitat for ospreys and eagles. Leavenworth village is the gateway to nearby ski areas and wineries. Be sure to check about their pending COVID guidelines. As the state adapts to restrictions, you will want to check https://leavenworth.org about potential closures. There are a few lovely wineries and restaurants with outdoor seating to accommodate this new climate we are all adapting to.
Leavenworth is your fall/winter-wonderland destination for joy. It is just over two and a half hours drive away from Tacoma, and you will feel like you're in another land. That's the beauty of Washington, it has so many climates and landscapes to enjoy within just a short drive. Although we live in a time of social distancing, we can all still enjoy a lot of scenery!
If you are itching to go on a scenic drive in Washington and want to have your car serviced before heading out, call Bristow's Auto Repair, we are here to help get you on the road and keep you on the road, safely! Make your check-up appointment with some of the most qualified auto mechanics in the business today. We back our work with a 2-year, 24,000-mile warranty, and our entire team focuses on creating a top-notch customer service experience for you. We specialize in BMW and Porsche service and repair, so you'll know that your car is in the best of hands. Make your appointment today!
We look forward to seeing you soon!