At the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Pacific Raceways in Kent, Washington, delivers adrenaline-pumping excitement for racing enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. This renowned motorsports facility offers a variety of high-speed experiences, from drag racing to road courses, catering to both professional drivers and amateurs looking for a taste of speed. The multi-use complex features a world-class road course stretching over 2 miles, with natural elevation changes that test even seasoned drivers.

Pacific Raceways has been a staple in the racing community for more than half a century, drawing visitors from all over to its dynamic events, including drag races and driving schools. It’s a popular destination for motorsport fans of all ages, offering family-friendly atmospheres during race events. The raceway is also an educational hub, providing driving courses that focus on racing techniques and safety.

Nestled amid sprawling evergreen forests, the raceway provides not just high-octane action but also captivating views of the surrounding landscape, making for a distinctive racing experience. With its close proximity to Seattle, Pacific Raceways is easily accessible, making it a must-visit for tourists and locals who crave an exhilarating day at the track. Whether you're drawn by the roar of engines or the chance to learn from industry experts, Pacific Raceways offers a unique adventure that combines speed, skill, and the stunning backdrop of Washington state. 

Pacific Raceways

Discover the natural beauty and rich diversity of plants at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden in Federal Way, Washington. This captivating garden spans 22 lush acres, offering a serene escape into nature and showcasing one of the largest collections of rhododendron species in North America. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, gardeners, and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful outdoor experience, the garden invites you to explore its well-manicured paths and vibrant displays of rare and exotic plant species. The garden is also home to a charming Victorian stumpery, a traditional fern garden that adds a whimsical touch to your visit.

Designed for education and enjoyment, the garden offers a chance to learn more about the importance of plant conservation and the fascinating diversity within the rhododendron genus. Whether you're a seasoned botanist or a casual visitor, the breathtaking blooms and tranquil setting provide an ideal backdrop for a family outing, a day of relaxation, or a learning adventure. Easily accessible from Seattle and Tacoma, the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden is a must-visit destination that promises to inspire and delight all who come to explore its natural wonders. 

Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden

Authentic Mexican food with a festive environment, friendly staff and always fresh ingredients. Warm chips with salsa, great refried beans and large menu with all of your favorites!

Viva Mexico Restaurant

Set high on a hilltop in SeaTac, Grandview Off-Leash Dog Park is a haven for dogs and their humans. With more than 30 acres of wide-open space, stunning views of Mount Rainier, and plenty of room to zoom, it’s one of the largest and most beloved off-leash areas in the region. Located just a short drive from the airport and local hotels, it's also a popular choice for travelers with dogs in tow.       

What you wouldn't ever guess? This park is also a former NIKE Missile Site constructed during the Cold War in case of a nuclear attack. While it's long been deactivated, it remains a destination for history buffs.     

HIGHLIGHTS    
-Massive Open Fields: With acres of rolling meadows and gentle hills, dogs have plenty of space to sprint, sniff, and play.    
-Unmatched Mountain Views: True to its name, Grandview lives up to the hype with panoramic vistas of Mount Rainier.     
-Fenced and Safe: The entire park is securely fenced, giving peace of mind to owners of rambunctious runners.     
-Agility Course: Keep adventurous pups entertained while providing great training opportunities.    

The Vibe:   Grandview feels like a wide-open playground. It’s energetic, a little muddy, and full of fun. Whether you're here to exercise a high-energy pup or soak in the view while your dog socializes, the atmosphere is equal parts serene and playful.

Grandview Off-Leash Dog Park

For authentic Taiwanese bubble tea made with uncompromising quality, Sharetea in Des Moines, WA is a must-visit. Situated near the scenic shoreline and marina district, this boba destination delivers expertly brewed tea, perfectly chewy boba, and a menu that spans dozens of flavor-forward options. Known worldwide for its high standards and commitment to sourcing directly from Taiwan, Sharetea brings the original bubble tea experience straight to the heart of Seattle Southside.    

NEED TO KNOW    
-Over 50 Menu Options: From traditional milk teas to fruit teas, smoothies, and hot drinks, there's a drink for every mood and every season—plus limited-time creations that keep things exciting. Best-sellers include the Classic Pearl Milk Tea, Matcha Red Bean Milk Tea, and Thai Tea with boba—all brewed with real tea leaves and creamy richness. Fruit tea lovers gravitate toward the Mango Green Tea or Passionfruit Orange & Grapefruit blends for a zesty, juicy finish.    
-Customizable to Your Taste: Pick your sweetness, ice level, and toppings like boba, pudding, grass jelly, or aloe to make your drink exactly how you like it.    
-Quick & Friendly Service: The Des Moines location earns praise for its cheerful team and fast turnaround, making it a convenient stop during a walk around town or coastal drive.    

The Vibe:   Sharetea Des Moines keeps the spotlight on what matters most: the tea. The space is clean, simple, and efficient—designed for takeout or quick stops rather than long hangouts. Whether you're grabbing a mid-day refreshment or cooling down on a sunny shoreline stroll, the experience is always fast, friendly, and refreshingly low-key.

Sharetea Des Moines

Serving the most delicious and sustainable poké bowls in the Northwest!

Just Poke Des Moines

JAFRA: Where Mediterranean Meets American Comfort Food      

JAFRA in Des Moines, Washington, offers a culinary journey where the tastes of the Middle East, Greece, and America come together in delightful harmony. Known for its signature lamb and beef gyro, as well as other beloved Mediterranean staples like shawarma and falafel, it's a fantastic option for a quick, casual meal. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty shawarma wrap or a refreshing smoothie, JAFRA's menu promises bold, satisfying flavors.    

Need to Know:
*	All-Day Dining: JAFRA is open 24 hours, Monday through Sunday.   
 *	Menu Highlights: The menu features crowd-pleasers like the tender Lamb and Beef Gyro, packed with authentic Mediterranean spices. The Chicken Shish Kabob is grilled to perfection, while their falafel and hummus plates offer a fresh take on vegetarian Mediterranean fare. The Greek samosas are also a favorite.    Sweet Snacks: In addition to full meals, JAFRA also serves smoothies and pastries such as muffins and donuts.    

The Vibe: Jafra is a casual, family-friendly spot that’s perfect for when you need a quick bite but don’t want to compromise on flavor or quality. While many people take their food to-go, there is a small, cozy seating area that’s clean and comfortable.    

Good to Know: 
Vegetarian-Friendly Options: With a range of plant-based dishes, like falafel wraps and Mediterranean salads, vegetarians are well catered to.    

Great for Takeout: As one reviewer put it, “The presentation was beautiful. I took it home and when I arrived it was still hot."

JAFRA

Menuderia Maria in Des Moines, WA, is a hidden gem for those who crave the warm, homestyle comfort of authentic Mexican soups. Specializing in menudo and pozole—two iconic dishes steeped in tradition—this humble eatery draws both locals and destination diners seeking a true taste of Mexico. Patrons return time and again for the rich broths, tender meats, and handmade tortillas that elevate each meal.    

 NEED TO KNOW    
-Specialty in Menudo & Pozole: Few places do it like Menuderia Maria. Their weekend menudo is rich, aromatic, and packed with tender tripe, while the pozole—available in red or green—is loaded with flavor and tradition.    
-Not Your Average Breakfast: Start your day with delicious dishes such as chilaquiles (corn tortilla pieces simmered in salsa) and eggs with nopal cactus.    
-Tasty Tacos: In addition to soup, you can get rolled or fried tacos with the filling of your choice, topped with lettuce, sour cream, queso fesco, avocado and pickled red onions.     

The Vibe:   Step inside Menuderia Maria and you’ll be greeted by the aroma of simmering soups and the unmistakable energy of a kitchen steeped in tradition. The vibe is quiet, humble, and inviting.

Menuderia María

An Up-Close Look at Puget Sound's Marine Life     Perched on the shores of Redondo Beach in Des Moines, Washington, the MaST Center Aquarium is a living classroom, a research lab, and a community treasure trove dedicated to unveiling the magic of Puget Sound. Operated by Highline College, this vibrant facility fosters curiosity through hands-on learning. With over 250 native species on display, interactive touch tanks, and more than 3,000 gallons of flow-through seawater powering its tanks, the MaST Center offers up-close encounters with creatures that usually remain hidden beneath the surface.    While the MaST Center is not open to the public daily, it hosts free, family-friendly Discovery Days every Saturday. Knowledgeable volunteers and marine experts guide you through the center, making the experience educational and fun.     

Need to Know:   
 Native Species on Full Display – The MaST Center houses hundreds of native marine species—from colorful anemones to mesmerizing jellyfish—all thriving in tanks fed by natural seawater directly from Puget Sound. It's one of the most biodiverse educational aquariums in the state. Touch tanks allow guests to (gently) feel native marine creatures while learning about their roles in the ecosystem.    
More Than an Aquarium – The fun starts when you enter the lobby, where a 38-foot skeleton of a Gray Whale greets you. There are also exhibits about various marine life species and art installations based on environmental topics.    
Underwater Art - During the winter, the center displays an art gallery featuring winning submissions to its Underwater Photography Challenge. See incredible photos of fish and other marine creatures taken right in the waters at Redondo.    
Picturesque Coastal Location  – The aquarium's Redondo Beach site is not only scenic but also perfectly positioned near tidepools and marine habitats that further enhance the educational adventure. While there, take a walk on the Redondo Beach boardwalk.  

MaST Center Aquarium

Step Into a Historic Landscape at the Robert Morris Earthwork  Nestled in a hillside overlooking the Kent Valley, the Robert Morris Earthwork stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and environmental rehabilitation. Born from the visionary collaboration led by 4Culture (formerly the King County Arts Commission) in 1979, this 4-acre public artwork was conceived to breathe new life into an abandoned gravel pit.     

Artist Robert Morris meticulously sculpted the terrain, removing undergrowth and terracing the earth, before sowing it with rye grass to rejuvenate the land. Today, Johnson Pit #30, as it is formally known, has evolved into a gathering place and an international beacon for scholars, students, urban planners, curators, and art enthusiasts, celebrated for its pioneering role in land reclamation through art.       

Need to Know:  
*	Public Hours: Open from dawn to dusk, every day, inviting visitors to experience its serene beauty and historic significance.  
*	Location's Legacy: Recognized for its innovative approach to public art and land reclamation, the Earthwork has been a pivotal site for engagement, recently earning its place on the National Register of Historic Places in October 2021.  
*	Cultural Significance: Hailed as the first publicly funded project to reclaim an industrially-abused site with art, the Earthwork reflects a groundbreaking merger of ecological restoration and artistic expression       
The Vibe:  As you step into the Robert Morris Earthwork, you're not just entering a piece of land but stepping into a piece of history. The site offers an extraordinary view over the Kent Valley below, providing a contemplative open space that resonates with the quiet power of nature reimagined. It's a place where the past and present converge, offering a unique perspective on the role of art in environmental stewardship.       

Good to Know: 
*	Artistic Marvel: The Earthwork is a living sculpture, offering an immersive experience that blends

Earthwork Robert Morris

Pacific Raceways is a legendary motorsports facility located in Kent, WA. The unique 2.25 mile, nine turn road course has hosted some of the world’s most notable international drivers, who favored the circuit’s quick elevation change of 110 feet in less than one-half mile.

Pacific Raceways

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