Washington State fun

In February we find ourselves in the season of Valentine’s Day.  Washington is a beautiful state with many things to see and do.  There are also many things that you can do with that special someone around Valentine’s Day, get out of the house or on a vacation to Washington.

The Chateau Ste Michelle Winery is a great place to take that special person.  Chateau Ste Michelle is the state’s oldest winery and has more awards than any other in the state.  Go for tasting of their fine wines and don’t skip the Riesling, it’s delicious.  The chateau and their historical grounds are located near Seattle while many of the vineyards are located in Eastern Washington.  They feature daily winery tours and tastings. 

Winter sports are popular in Washington and they offer you the opportunity to hit the slopes for some winter family fun.  There are three national parks and the Washington State Parks’ Winter Recreation Program sponsors many of the snow activities at Mount Ranier National Park, North Cascades national Park and Olympic National Park.  Activities include cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, tubing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and skijoring.  While you are on the slopes you may also have the opportunity to view the winter wildlife of Washington.  There are a wide variety of animals in the wilderness including Elk, Deer, Mountain Goat, Sheep, Hares, Weasels, Red Fox, Raccoon, Mink, Coyote, and many different birds.

If you want to stay warm this February, you may also choose to visit the Tacoma Art Museum.  The museum features traveling exhibitions, an Open Art Studio and an Art Resource Center.  The admission is low at just $7.50 for adults, $6.50 for students, military and seniors, and kids under five are free.  A family of two adults and up to 4 children under 18 can get in for $25.  Third Thursdays of the month are also free.  Guided tours are offered free and they also offer a downtown walking tour to see the art of Dale Chihuly on display in the city.  The museum features the Dale Chihuly Collection permanently.  This is an expansive collection of the artist’s work.  The collection dates from 1977 to present.

Washington may be chilly in February and they have a lot of things that you can do.  Whether you want to enjoy the outdoors or stay inside there are a variety of activities to take part in during the winter months.