Uncover the Mystery: The Maury Island Incident Mural  Tucked away in the Seattle Southside area, the Maury Island Incident Mural in Des Moines, Washington, commemorates one of the most mysterious and debated UFO sightings in American history. This striking mural tells the story of the infamous 1947 Maury Island Incident, a tale involving flying saucers, strange debris, and government agents. Located on the side of a shipping container outside a local building, the mural brings this intriguing piece of Pacific Northwest folklore to life, capturing the imagination of passersby and inviting them to delve into the mystery that still lingers today.    

Key Features to Explore      
*	Historical Significance: The mural depicts key elements of the 1947 Maury Island UFO sighting, which occurred just days before the famous Roswell incident. The case involved Harold Dahl, a local man who claimed to have witnessed six flying saucers near Maury Island in Puget Sound, and later reported falling debris and other strange occurrences.  
*	Artistic Depiction of the UFO Encounter: The mural, commissioned by John White and created by Nancy and Zach Pahl, features vibrant, detailed imagery of flying saucers, the Puget Sound, and the boats that were involved in the incident. Its dynamic design is both visually captivating and rich in narrative, sparking curiosity about the long-standing mystery.  
*	Cultural and Local Relevance: The Maury Island Incident is a part of local lore, and the mural pays homage to the Pacific Northwest’s fascination with UFOs and the unknown. It connects visitors to the region's history of aviation, conspiracy theories, and government involvement in UFO investigations.  
*	Local Landmark: The mural has become a beloved piece of public art in Des Moines, drawing both UFO enthusiasts and casual observers. It’s an ideal stop for those interested in exploring the more unusual aspects of local history.  

Maury Island mural

A Gateway to Puget Sound Beauty and Adventure    The Des Moines Marina, tucked along Puget Sound, is a popular destination for both boaters and non-boaters alike. This full-service, 900-slip marina offers salty breezes, spectacular sunsets, and panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains. With a long, well-maintained pier that extends far into the sea, you’ll feel like you’re walking on water. It’s no wonder Des Moines is often dubbed the “Boating Capital of the Pacific Northwest.”     

Highlights   
-Full-Service Moorage: The marina offers wet and dry moorage for 850 vessels and fuel services, making it a welcoming port for both short-term visitors and long-term boaters. The guest moorage area provides 1,500 feet of dock space for vessels up to 100 feet in length. Learn more here.      
-Boardwalk and Fishing Pier: Enjoy stunning walks along the waterfront or try your luck at fishing from the public pier.    
-Public Art: Walk around the marina to discover many pieces of public art, including the fascinating marinascope<https://zh.seattlesouthside.com/directory/marinascope/>.     
-Spend a Day at the Park: Adjacent to the marina, Des Moines Beach Park features a grassy field perfect for playing or picnicking, a rocky beach, and trails to explore.    
-Farmers Market: On summer Saturdays, the marina hosts the Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market, featuring fresh produce and flowers as well as ready-to-eat food and wares from local artisans.     Walkable Marina District: Several restaurants and cafes nearby offer waterfront views, including Anthony's HomePort & Lower Deck<https://www.seattlesouthside.com/directory/anthonys-homeport-and-lower-deck/> and Quarterdeck<https://www.seattlesouthside.com/directory/quarterdeck/>. A quick stroll east also brings you to boutique shopping, wine tastings, and cozy cafes—all wrapped in small-town charm.     
-The Vibe: The Des Moines Marina is equal parts tranquil escape and lively hub. From paddleboarding beneath pink skies to savoring local

Des Moines Marina Pier

A unique, Northwest seafood restaurant that is designed in a casual, rustic cedar interior. They serve award winning New England Clam Chowder and an unmatched selection of fish and chips, including Giant Alaskan Cod Fillets. Additional items include halibut, Dungeness crab, salmon, local steamer clams, coconut prawns, scallops, oysters, and a variety of seafood tacos. Wally's also serves great steaks, burgers, salads, and chicken items. Enjoy authentic Northwest seafood and the view of the Puget Sound in the charming community of Des Moines and just seven minutes south of Sea-Tac Airport. Enjoy Award Winning New England Clam Chowder in #SeattleSouthside.

Wally's Chowder House Broiler

A Fresh Taste of the Pacific Northwest at Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market  Immerse yourself in the vibrant community spirit of Des Moines, Washington, at the Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market. Established in 2006, this absolute gem of a local market weaves together the best of local agriculture, artisan crafts, and lively entertainment against the scenic backdrop of Puget Sound. Running every Saturday from June through September, the market promises an array of fresh produce, flowers, and unique local crafts, complemented by live music and picturesque views.  

Need to Know:  
*	Market Days: Every Saturday, 10 AM to 2 PM, from June through September.  
*	Special Features: From fresh local produce and flowers to artisan crafts, food vendors, and live music, the market offers a rich tapestry of community life​​​​.  

The Vibe:  The Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market is more than just a place to shop for produce; it's a community hub where visitors can enjoy sampling the local bounty while overlooking the Olympic Mountains, Vashon and Maury Islands, and the waters of Puget Sound beyond the Marina. Here you can indulge in delicious eats from food trucks and explore the works of amazing artisans. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to Seattle Southside, the market provides a welcoming space for shopping, strolling, and socializing​​.  

Good to Know:  The market goes far beyond just shopping; it's about experiencing the rich agricultural and artisanal bounty of Washington. Enjoy live music, a picnic area for leisurely lunches, and the opportunity to meet and support local farmers and artisans. The market also participates in food security initiatives, accepting vouchers and offering matching programs, ensuring access to fresh, healthy food for all​​​​. As a nonprofit organization, the market is far more focused on providing quality food and service than it is on making a buck. 

Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market (Seasonal)

Rain or shine, Quarterdeck is the perfect place to savor a drink with a waterfront view. This quaint, locally owned cafe and bar is right near the beach at the Des Moines Marina and has ample outdoor seating. On a warm day, you can soak up the sun while taking in breathtaking views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains in the distance. During cooler months, you can stay cozy in a heated outdoor tent, or at one of the tables inside. Even better, it stays open until mid-evening, making it a great place to gather with friends for drinks, or to post up by yourself with a book and a glass of wine.     

It’s dog-friendly, kid-friendly, and you can even bring in outside food if you’d like. Basically, it’s like going to your most hospitable friend’s waterfront home!    

NEED TO KNOW:    
-Community Events: Quarterdeck was founded with the intention to be a community hub where everyone feels at home. It regularly hosts fun, welcoming events, like trivia and bingo nights, wine tastings, and live music. Check their website for upcoming dates.     
-Not Your Average Cup of Jo: Quarterdeck serves organic coffee from Anchor House Roasting, a premium roastery in Buckley, Washington. Enjoy drip, espresso, cold brew, and specialty drinks. Pair your drink with a fresh, flaky pastry from Macrina Bakery.    
-Premium Alcoholic Beverages: Choose from local craft beer and cider on tap and wines from the PNW and around the world, available in bottles or by the glass.    
-Snacks to Savor: Nibble on a charcuterie plate filled with artisanal cheeses and meats, or fill up with warm or cold sandwiches, wraps, or salads. There are also breakfast options, including a mouthwatering sausage omelette melt made with cage-free eggs. You can also bring in outside food if you’d like!      

THE VIBE:    Quarterdeck is warm, welcoming, and casual. The deck and outdoor seating area are beautifully maintained, and the view is unbeatable.

Quarterdeck

The menu features an assortment of Hunan, Szechwan, Mandarin and Cantonese entrees. Try their Hot & Sour soup, Honey Walnut Shrimp, or flavorful Five Flavor Beef. Located in Des Moines, stop in to dine or enjoy take-out.            

Taste All Flavors of Chinese Food in Des Moines, #SeattleSouthside

Mandarin Kitchen

Located within Des Moines' quaint Marina District, via Marina Wood-Fired Italian Cafe is a welcoming Italian eatery that locals love. Following the prestigious Vera Pizza Napoletana Association guidelines, the restaurant uses authentic Italian ingredients and bakes its pizzas at 800 degrees in less than 90 seconds — the real deal.  Known for its warm and casual atmosphere, attentive staff, and outstanding food, this café feels like a tucked-away trattoria you might stumble upon in Naples. Whether you're enjoying a romantic dinner or just dropping in for Happy Hour after a walk on the pier, Via Marina consistently delights with bold flavors and heartfelt service.    

NEED TO KNOW:    
-Variety of Menu Items: Compact but curated, the menu offers standout wood-fired pizzas, hand-tossed pastas, crisp salads, and shareable appetizers. Guests rave about dishes like the Cannelloni di Magro, homemade pasta filled with ricotta, spinach, and pecorino cheese, the Frutti di Mare loaded with seafood, capers, and Gaeta olives, and the shareable Antipasto Misto — a vibrant platter of marinated vegetables and cured meats. Don’t skip dessert: with five rotating options, there’s always something indulgent to end your meal.     
-Full Bar: Complement your meal with a glass of wine or explore the full bar for a craft cocktail surprise.    Marina Views & Cozy Charm: Located near the Des Moines Marina, the café offers a scenic setting paired with a warm, rustic interior that invites you to linger.    
-The Vibe: Heartfelt and Homey  Step inside Via Marina and you’ll find flickering light, the aroma of wood fire, and a setting that feels more like a neighborhood dinner party than a restaurant. The staff treat you like family, and many diners say it’s the personal touches — warm greetings, helpful recommendations — that elevate the experience from a simple meal to something memorable.

via Marina Wood Fired Pizza & Italian Cafe

Recognized as a favorite family-friendly restaurant that offers everything from exotic mixed drinks for adult customers to a special kid’s menu and coloring pages for children. Famous for their variety of juicy gourmet burgers, it's a fun time out for friends and family! The atmosphere is colorful and fun and the service is excellent across the board. At Red Robin, the prices are reasonable and the portions are large, so arrive hungry for the well-known gourmet Red Robin burger and unlimited steak-fries.            

Family-Friendly Restaurant Serving Gourmet Burgers in #SeattleSouthside

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews

Coastal Dining on the Des Moines Marina  Anthony’s HomePort and Lower Deck in Des Moines is a go-to destination for fresh Northwest fare. Located directly on the Des Moines Marina, guests enjoy sweeping views of Puget Sound, passing boats, and dramatic Olympic Mountain backdrops—particularly magical at sunset.     This two-in-one restaurant offers both a refined upstairs experience and a relaxed downstairs patio vibe. From summer happy hours and sunset date nights to celebratory dinners and Sunday brunch, the dual-concept setup means there's always a seat—and a scene—that fits your plans.    

Take note: This restaurant is on the Seattle Southside Savings Pass! Sign up for the pass<https://www.seattlesouthside.com/plan-your-trip/deals/savings-pass/> to get a complimentary crispy calamari appetizer with the purchase of two entrees. It's also on the Seattle Southside Happy Hour Trail<https://www.seattlesouthside.com/food-drink/happy-hour-trail/>.  

Top Reasons to Visit:  
Two Experiences in One: The HomePort upstairs offers elegant, full-service dining with an emphasis on seasonal Northwest seafood. The Lower Deck serves up a laid-back, beachy vibe with outdoor seating, casual fare, and craft drinks. The two restaurants have distinct menus and hours, so it’s wise to check the restaurant website before visiting. The Lower Deck is only open in the afternoons and evenings.    
The Best Seafood in Town: Anthony’s prides itself on sourcing all its seafood through its own, family-owned seafood company.    
Upstairs, you can find virtually any kind of seafood you’re craving, including fresh oysters on the half shell, expertly prepared wild cod, steamed clams, prawn cocktail, Dungeness crab dip, and more. Beyond seafood, Anthony’s cooks a mean filet or ribeye, so you can mix-and-match with sides like scallops or tempura prawns to make a delicious surf and turf meal.      
 On the Lower Deck, you’ll find plenty of options as well, like crispy calamari, wild salmon and cod, and fish 

Anthony's HomePort

A Historic Nursery with a Charming Gift Shop    Zenith Holland Nursery, the oldest operating nursery in King County, is a timeless treasure in Des Moines, Washington. Since 1907, it has been nurturing gardens and building community connections. Beyond its lush selection of plants, the nursery surprises visitors with an expansive gift shop, festive seasonal displays, and creative workshops.     

Need to Know:    
Seasonal Magic: The nursery embraces the seasons with enchanting transformations, such as a whimsical pumpkin patch for Halloween and a cozy Santa area during the holidays, complete with photo opportunities for families. The gift shop is also overflowing with seasonal decor.    

Gift Shop: Discover a large gift shop featuring upscale home decor, candles, kids’ toys, baby items, clothing, jewelry, accessories, and more—perfect for gifts or personal indulgences.    

Creative Workshops and Events: Participate in hands-on classes throughout the year, including wreath-making workshops during the holidays, bonsai lessons, and terrarium-building sessions, offering unique ways to connect with nature and creativity.    

Extensive Plant Selection: From vibrant seasonal flowers to hardy shrubs, Zenith Holland offers everything you need to create and maintain a thriving garden, supported by knowledgeable staff ready to help. Experienced horticularlists and garden consutlants can offer expert advice as you choose what makes most sense for your home or yard.    

The Vibe:    Zenith Holland Nursery feels like a hidden oasis tucked away in Des Moines. It's a great place to stop by when you're visiting Seattle Southside, or to bring guests from out of town.

Zenith Holland Nursery

Round1 Bowling & Arcade is located in Westfield Southcenter Mall in Tukwila. There are 14 state of the art bowling lanes and the facility offers full service food and beverage catering. 

Round1 Bowling

Business Type

Has Promotions Available

Special Features