THINGS TO DO
Dough Zone
Fantastic chinese dumplings at an accessible price point. Many locations around the Seattle area.
Din Tai Fung
Taiwanese dumplings in a bustling atmosphere. Come early and hungry! Don't miss out on the garlic green beans. You'll never forget them!
Tavolata
Great spot for cozy, rich pastas in darker settings. Make sure to try the burrata!
Jackalope Cantina
Delightful spot for tex mex and killer cocktails. Make sure to go in for some chips and guac and a spicy marg!
This casual eatery offers classic Indian & Mediterranean dishes in a homey setting, and a date spot Brad first brought Paige after showing her around his alma mater, University of Washington.
With generous servings of Lebanese-Mediterranean favorites like shawarmas & kebabs in a low-key setting, this small spot located in Bellevue has become a go-to date night for Brad and Paige, both dining in and taking out.
Red House (Renton)
Red House is a cozy, independent restaurant in Old Renton, serving up upscale comfort food and craft cocktails. While it may not be the most popular spot in Renton, it is where Brad and Paige went on their first date. Ask Brad how he feels about the proportion of salad size to plate ;)
COFFEE SHOPS
An incredible roastery, Olympia Coffee is known for its dedication to high-quality, ethically sourced beans and its focus on sustainability. It also happens to be Brad’s favorite.
With a handful of locations across Seattle and highly recommended amongst Brad and Paige’s church community, Victrola is a fantastic coffee roastery with high-quality coffee beans and a warm, inviting vibe.
Boon Boona Coffee is a vibrant coffee shop and roaster with a strong commitment to showcasing African coffee, especially from East African regions like Ethiopia, Kenya, and Rwanda. With a location just a few minutes from where Paige lives, it has been a popular spot amongst friends to meet up, work remotely, or grab a coffee before a weekend hike.
ACTIVITIES
Visit the iconic market and stick around for lunch. Lots of great food options and local artisans. Make sure to park elsewhere and walk in. Don't be that guy driving through on a busy afternoon!
A beautiful display of exquisite blown glass art by local legend Dale Chihuly. Located near the base of the Space Needle and well worth the cost of entry.
Found at the top of the Columbia Tower in downtown, the Sky View Observatory boasts as iconic a view of Seattle as the Space Needle at a more accessible price point. The Space Needle is still cool though.
Enjoy exploring the classic exhibits and wildlife of the Seattle Aquarium and check out the newly opened expansion. While there, check out the great views of the Puget Sound on the overwalk park and walkway up to Pike Place Market.
A fascinating museum for music, film, and pop culture enthusiasts. MoPOP's exhibits cover a wide range of pop culture topics, including music, science fiction, video games, film, and more. It features immersive exhibits, interactive displays, and large collections related to iconic musicians, movies, television, and video games.
Taking a ferry ride in Seattle is one of the most iconic and enjoyable experiences for visitors. It offers a unique opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of the city, its skyline, and the surrounding natural beauty from the water. When Paige first moved out to Washington, she lived across the water from Seattle, and used the ferries from time to time to get into the city!
HIKES
At 14,410 feet above sea level, Mount Rainier is an icon in the Washington landscape. Visiting Mt. Rainier is a stunning experience. The towering, snow-capped peak dominates the skyline, and you'll find lush forests, alpine meadows, and cascading waterfalls along the way. Whether you're into hiking, wildlife watching, or just soaking in breathtaking views, there's something for everyone. The weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly, but the beauty of the mountain and its surroundings is definitely worth it. Paradise Area and Sunrise Area are two popular destinations with excellent day hikes.
The Rattlesnake Ledge hike near Issaquah is a popular and rewarding trail, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and the town below. It's a moderate, 4-mile round-trip hike that climbs steadily, with some switchbacks as you approach the top. Once you reach the ledge, you’re treated to a breathtaking view of Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding Snoqualmie Valley. The trail can get crowded, especially on weekends, so try to get an early start if you want a quieter experience. This was the first hike Brad and Paige did together, and her first time on this trail.
A favorite of Paige’s, the Little Si hike near North Bend is a fantastic option for those looking for a challenging yet manageable hike with great rewards. It’s about 4.7 miles round-trip with a moderate to steep ascent, gaining around 1,500 feet in elevation. Along the way, you'll pass through lush forest and encounter a series of switchbacks before reaching the summit, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of Mount Si, the Snoqualmie Valley, and the surrounding peaks. It’s less crowded than the more famous Mount Si trail, making it a quieter alternative with equally beautiful scenery. Perfect for a half-day adventure if you're in the area!
Not as much of a hike as it is walking trails, Discovery Park in Seattle is a peaceful, 534-acre urban oasis located on the city’s Magnolia Bluff. It’s the largest green space in Seattle, offering a mix of forest, meadows, and shoreline along Puget Sound. The park features several miles of trails, including a scenic path leading to a beautiful beach with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and the iconic West Point Lighthouse. Whether you're into hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the tranquil environment, Discovery Park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without leaving it. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and families looking for a relaxed outdoor experience, and has been a destination Brad and Paige have revisited many times.