Washington and Beyond: A Pacific Northwest Family Travel Adventure

Picking up where we left off in Federal Way, our family adventure continued, pedaling through beautiful parks, exploring charming towns, and exploring the international charm of Victoria, Canada. Grab your passports, helmets, and appetites—part two of our road trip adventure promises delightful discoveries and unforgettable moments!

Rainy Day Adventures: Discovering the Marine Science and Technology Center in Federal Way

When the forecast promised more drizzle than sunshine, we decided to swap biking for curiosity and check out a little-known gem in Federal Way: the Marine Science and Technology Center—or MaST for short. Bonus? Admission is free. And when you’re road-tripping, “free” is one of our favorite words.

As we walked up to the waterfront building, we noticed a group of brave souls getting scuba diving lessons just off the dock. It looked like a blast... if you enjoy the thrill of icy water and wetsuits that cling to every inch of your body. We were happy to stay dry and observe from afar, preferably with a warm coffee in hand.

While waiting in line to enter the aquarium, friendly volunteers greeted us with marine knowledge and a table full of sea creature skulls. Nothing says “welcome” quite like holding a seal’s cranium in your hands, right? But really, it was fascinating—they eagerly shared facts about local marine life, making even the rain feel educational.

Inside, the space wasn’t massive, but it was packed with charm. Full-size whale and dolphin skeletons hung dramatically from the ceiling, setting the tone for our underwater-themed stroll. They also had a display of vintage diving equipment that made us thankful for modern technology—and for not having to wear a helmet the size of a mailbox to go swimming.

The live touch tanks were a definite highlight. We got up close and personal with sea cucumbers, starfish, and a surprisingly nimble little creature called a brittle star. (If you’ve never seen one, imagine a sea star and a spider had a baby—it's weirdly mesmerizing.)

Though the aquarium was small, it was the perfect cozy escape for a soggy afternoon. It’s hands-on, family-friendly, and a great reminder of how much marine life thrives just below the surface of the Puget Sound.

If you're in the area on a rainy day—or even a sunny one—swing by the MaST Center. You might not leave with dry feet, but you’ll definitely leave a little more ocean-smart.

Pedaling through Paradise at Van Doren’s Landing Park

With the weather cooperating, we loaded up our bikes and headed to Van Doren’s Landing Park in Kent. Located along the banks of the Green River, this scenic area is part of the Green River Trail, a 19.6-mile path that traces the river’s historical route through the fertile Kent Valley. Once a rich agricultural region known for hop fields and dairy farms, the valley has transformed into a recreational haven while still preserving pockets of natural beauty and floodplain management.

Van Doren’s Landing itself was named after a prominent local farming family and has become a cyclist’s dream—10 miles of paved trails winding gracefully alongside the river, flanked by wetlands and native vegetation. Towering lookout points gave us panoramic views, perfect for catching our breath and snapping a few great photos.

Halfway through our ride, we relaxed in one of the park’s shaded ramadas for a scenic picnic lunch, topped off with the perfect seasonal treat: pumpkin drinks from Starbucks. Because nothing says fall quite like spiced caffeine and a bike ride with a view!

Poulsbo: Pirates, Chocolates, and Norwegian Charm

With time to spare before catching our ferry to Victoria, we explored Poulsbo, a postcard-perfect waterfront town affectionately known as "Little Norway." Founded in the 1880s by Norwegian immigrants, Poulsbo’s picturesque location along Liberty Bay reminded settlers of the fjords back home—so much so that they decided to recreate a slice of Scandinavia right here in Washington. Norwegian was the primary language spoken well into the 20th century, and even today, you’ll spot Viking murals, Nordic flags, and charming architecture that keeps the town’s heritage alive.

As we strolled along the marina, we were greeted by boats decked out with pirate and skeleton decorations—leftovers from a recent pirate-themed boat contest that added a playful twist to our walk. The town was full of delightful surprises, including an irresistible stop at Boehms Chocolate, where we happily gave in to sweet temptation.

We couldn’t pass up the Poulsbo Maritime Museum, a local gem that brings the town’s seafaring and Scandinavian roots to life. We learned that the town’s name was supposed to be “Paul’s Bo”—named after one of the early settlers—but thanks to a postal service typo, it became "Poulsbo," and the name stuck. Just one of many quirky tales that made this little town an unforgettable stop on our journey.

Port Angeles: A Charming Coastal Stop Before Our Ferry Ride to Canada

On our way to catch the ferry to Victoria, Canada, we found ourselves arriving a little early in Port Angeles—so instead of sitting in the car like bored travelers, we decided to explore Historic Downtown. And honestly, we're glad we did.

This coastal gem has more history than you might expect. While strolling along the waterfront park, we came across a few signs that clued us in: Port Angeles Harbor is actually the first deep-water “safe haven” for ships traveling from the Pacific Ocean into the Puget Sound. No wonder this town became such an important maritime hub.

As we wandered, we also learned about the Olympic Discovery Trail, a scenic project still in progress. A portion of it, known as the Waterfront Trail, stretches about 6.5 miles—from the old Rayonier Mill in the east, through the downtown area, and all the way to the Coast Guard Station at the end of Ediz Hook. If we’d had more time (and maybe sturdier walking shoes), we would’ve loved to explore it further.

Instead, we enjoyed a peaceful walk along the town’s pier, watching a few boats swaying in the harbor and admiring the view from the park next to the port. Benches lined the perimeter, perfectly positioned to take in the ocean breeze and admire the quirky sculptures and historical markers dotting the path. It was the kind of place that made you want to linger—quiet, beautiful, and steeped in local charm.

Then, James got distracted by something very important: food.

He spotted a small Fish and Crab Shack tucked along the waterfront, and seeing happy locals devouring fresh seafood was all the convincing he needed. He tried the shrimp (which he gave rave reviews), while the rest of us—self-proclaimed seafood skeptics—stuck with a generous helping of fries. No regrets.

Not long after, the ferry pulled into port, ready to take us on the next leg of our adventure: a voyage across the Strait to Victoria, Canada.

Port Angeles may have just been a pit stop, but it turned out to be a memorable one—full of ocean views, a bite of local flavor, and a bit of history we didn’t expect to find.

Victoria, Canada: A Ferry Tale

After a picturesque ferry ride from Port Angeles—complete with whale and seal sightings—we arrived in charming Victoria, Canada. We stayed at the Hotel Grand Pacific, conveniently located right across from the ferry port. Our room featured a wonderful balcony with fantastic views of the bay, perfect for watching ferries come in and out.

Unfortunately, while the hotel appeared luxurious and inviting from both inside and out, the beds were incredibly uncomfortable—so much so that my daughter resorted to requesting ten pillows from room service to fashion a makeshift pillow top! While this creative solution helped a little, the beds remained disappointingly hard for the cost of the stay. If comfortable sleep is a priority for you, I wouldn’t recommend staying here, unless you like a hard mattress. On a brighter note, we did enjoy the convenience of Uber Eats, having delicious burgers and pizza delivered straight to our room on a couple of evenings and people watched from our balcony, after a long day of sight seeing.

Victoria’s vibrant atmosphere swept us away, from elegant horse-drawn carriages to the stunning Government House Gardens. Spanning approximately 36.08 acres (14.6 hectares), these gardens artfully blend formal landscaping with natural ecosystems. Originally designed in 1911 by landscape architect G.K. Maclean, the gardens underwent significant enhancements after a fire in 1957, with British-born landscaper Robert Savery introducing elements inspired by traditional English gardens. ​

The estate's grounds feature a diverse array of themed gardens, including the Victorian Rose Garden, modeled after the plan for the Rose Garden at Warwick Castle in England, and the Garry Oak ecosystem area, which is unique and diverse, ranging from woodlands to meadows, and characterized by the presence of Garry oak trees (Quercus garryana).  Other notable sections include the Cottage Garden, Rock and Alpine Garden, and the Woodlands, each offering visitors a unique horticultural experience. ​

The gardens are meticulously maintained by the Friends of Government House Gardens Society, a dedicated volunteer group established in 1992. Their efforts ensure the preservation and enhancement of this National Historic Site, providing peaceful paths, vibrant floral displays, lush greenery, and delightful encounters with curious deer enjoying the blossoms. 

Brunch Bliss at the Blue Fox Cafe

One highlight of our stay in Victoria was dining at the renowned Blue Fox Café, a local favorite since 1991. Known for its funky decor and bold breakfast creations, this eclectic café has built a loyal following over the decades, often earning accolades as one of the best brunch spots in British Columbia. We waited about 20 minutes for a table, and trust me—it was well worth every minute. The food and drinks were incredibly delicious, and the staff was warm and friendly, making the experience even more enjoyable. To read more about our fantastic experience at the Blue Fox Café, click here.

Museums, Moss Ladies, and Meals

Our explorations in Victoria included a visit to the enchanting Miniature World Museum, located adjacent to the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel. Open since the 1970s, this quirky museum is beloved for its incredibly detailed dioramas, from historical battle scenes to fantasy lands. Some exhibits even feature working day-and-night light cycles, adding a magical layer of realism. We were thoroughly amazed—photos simply don’t do it justice. This is one of those places you have to experience in person.

As we were heading back to our hotel, the hauntingly beautiful sound of bagpipes caught our attention. Rounding the corner, we discovered an older gentleman standing proudly, playing with the kind of skill that made you stop in your tracks. It was unexpected, and honestly, kind of magical.

He told us he plays on that very corner almost every evening—just him, his pipes, and the passing crowd. We couldn’t help but pause and soak it in for a while. The music echoed down the street, adding a little Scottish flair to our day and a whole lot of charm to our walk.

We later dined at Bard & Banker, a charming restaurant set in a historic 1862 building that originally served as the Bank of British Columbia. It’s named after Scottish poet Robert Service, who once worked there as a bank teller before gaining fame for his Yukon-themed poetry. The atmosphere exudes vintage elegance, and paired with delicious food, it made for a truly memorable evening.

Our final day took us to Beacon Hill Park, a 200-acre urban oasis established in 1882 and named after two navigational beacons once used by mariners. It’s also home to the whimsical Moss Lady sculpture, a reclining figure inspired by the mythical Green Man. We wrapped up the day wandering through Fisherman’s Wharf, where the colorful floating homes and bustling eateries offered a vibrant mix of seaside charm and laid-back energy.

A Surprise Snack Stop with a Side of Cat: Dining at Quilbilly’s in Quilcene

After returning to Port Angeles from our quick Canadian adventure, our stomachs did what they do best—start a protest. Loudly. With growls that could probably be heard across the Strait. So we set out in search of food and stumbled upon the most unexpected little gem: Quilbilly’s Restaurant in the tiny town of Quilcene, Washington.

Now, when I say this place was quaint, I mean it in the most charming, cozy, borderline-"storybook" kind of way. And like any good storybook café, there was… a cat. Yes, a real one. Just roaming around like he owned the place. (Honestly, he probably does.)

The best part? Right as a customer opened the front door, the cat made his move—slipping inside with stealth and confidence, leaping onto a table like a feline ninja, and casually sipping from someone’s cup of water as if this were a five-star cat café. We were stunned. The customer? Equally surprised. The owners? Well, they swiftly removed the furry water thief with the grace of people who’ve clearly done this before.

Once the excitement died down, our food arrived—and cue the gasp—there was actual steam rising off the hamburger. Real steam. Not "microwave reheat" warm, but straight-from-the-grill, hot-enough-to-blister-your-taste-buds steam. In a world of lukewarm fries and disappointing fast food, it was a beautiful sight. A hot meal is a simple pleasure, but one we’ll never take for granted again.

The food? Delicious. The service? Friendly and attentive. The atmosphere? Equal parts rustic, cozy, and mildly theatrical thanks to the cameo from the resident cat.

If you’re driving through Quilcene—or even remotely near it—Quilbilly’s is a must-stop. Whether you're craving comfort food or a side of unexpected entertainment, this place delivers both. Just keep an eye on your water glass… the cat sure will.

Cycling Through Point Defiance and the Foothills Trail

Back in Washington, our biking adventures continued. Point Defiance Park, established in 1888, is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, spanning over 700 acres in Tacoma. Originally a military reservation, it was later transformed into a public park and now features lush old-growth forests, formal gardens, and spectacular waterfront trails. We pedaled through towering pines and along scenic views of Puget Sound, concluding with a relaxing visit to Owen Beach, a local favorite since the 1950s and recently renovated to improve accessibility and coastal preservation.

Next, the Foothills Trail East, part of the former Burlington Northern Railroad line, offered us expansive farmland vistas and gentle grades perfect for a peaceful ride. This rail-to-trail conversion not only preserves a piece of transportation history but also connects several small communities along its route.

After our ride, we happily refueled at Burger Express, a classic roadside stop known for its juicy burgers and refreshing, fruit-filled shakes—a delicious ending to our day of cycling.

A Culinary Tour and Sparks Rib Fest

Throughout our stay, our cousin absolutely spoiled us with her culinary skills. One night, she served up a lamb dish so tender and flavorful, it left us speechless—and trust me, that’s saying something. We are not a lamb-eating family. Normally, we’d politely pass and grab a granola bar instead. But her lamb we actually went back for seconds.

And just when we thought it couldn’t get better, their friends treated us to an unforgettable homemade Indian feast. We’re still dreaming about the Tamil Nadu chicken curry, Palak Dal and rice. If we could teleport ourselves back to that dinner table, we would—plates in hand.

To top off one of these amazing evenings, we gathered in the backyard to make s’mores by the fire. There’s just something magical about the combination of toasted marshmallows, melty chocolate, and the cool night air—especially when you’re surrounded by family, full bellies, and laughter echoing under the stars.

On our way home, we made a pit stop in Sparks, Nevada, where our friends introduced us to the famous Rib Fest. Picture this: rows of tents overflowing with award-winning ribs, the air thick with the sweet and smoky scent of barbecue, and live music setting the mood. We ate our way through the festival like it was a competitive sport. Napkins? Optional. Sticky fingers? Mandatory. It was a mouthwatering, meat-sweat-inducing celebration we won’t soon forget.

Homeward Bound: Laughs and Unexpected Dips

On our final leg home, we marveled at unexpected August snow sightings in Bridgepoint, California. However, the highlight of our drive was undoubtedly CA-120’s notorious "big dips." Picture this: us bouncing off our seats, laughter echoing through the truck, wishing we’d recorded every hilarious reaction. Pure road-trip comedy gold!

Final Reflections on Pacific Northwest Family Travel

From scenic bike rides and ferry crossings to pirate boats, gardens, and backyard s’mores, this journey was everything we love about Pacific Northwest family travel. It was the perfect mix of history, humor, and heart—with a few unexpected snowflakes and rib fests thrown in for good measure. Whether you're exploring Washington’s trails or Canada’s coastline, the Pacific Northwest delivers unforgettable family memories at every turn.