As the name suggests, the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial commemorates the forceful eviction and exile of the Japanese Americans from Bainbridge Island. This outdoor exhibit comprises a stonewall, which bears the name of the 276 ill-fated Japanese Americans residents. Within the premises, one will also find pictorial retelling of the eventful history of the community, which entails their foremost migration to the region, their contribution in strawberry farming and their unjust evacuation. The Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial is a stirring reminder of a dark chapter of America’s history and merits a visit by all.
Formerly serving as the abode and garden of a timber baron, Bloedel Reserve is now an exquisite pastoral preserve. The French-influenced house has been turned into a visitor's center, which also serves as a lavish wedding venue. Taking the spotlight away from the home, however, is the collection of ornamental gardens adorning its front yard. Each garden boasts a different style. One will find a reflecting pool, a Japanese Zen sand garden and teahouse, a moss garden and an azalea garden here. Accentuating the landscape is the rhododendron hillside and the surrounding forested area. While picnicking is prohibited in the gardens, one can wander along the verdure and take in the unbridled beauty of the gardens.
Each chocolatey bite is a culinary experience here! At Theo Chocolate, transforming a simple chocolate bar into a gourmet experience is a daily routine. Also available are organic varieties of chocolate that have grown to be quite the rage among chocolate lovers. Theo also conducts tours of its chocolate factory, where visitors are taken through the entire chocolate-making process. You won't be able to resist indulging in their chocolate creations when you see the gorgeous window displays.
Angela Shen, an avid foodie, founded Savor Seattle to spread her love for food amongst visitors to the city. Angela, who has always worked in the food industry, has formed a team of like minded gourmands, who will guide you through Seattle's culinary sphere. They offer different tour packages that focus on varied areas and themes. The tour around the Pike Place Market is a must-try; visitors get the opportunity to explore this historical place while experiencing the food and culture. You could also sign up for the Chocolate Indulgence, Booze-n-Bites and Gourmet Seattle.
Since 2012, Seattle Free Walking Tours have been conducting tours and educating visitors about the city, at no charge at all. Guests can choose from two packages: Experience Seattle and Market Market. Experience Seattle is the best way to learn about the city's monuments, best eateries, shopping spots and attractions. Explore the historical Pike Place Market, its hidden nooks and the changes it has undergone through the years with their Market Market Tour. They also organize private tours, where packages will be designed according to your convenience. Though tours are entirely free, a contribution is greatly appreciated since this is what the guides do for a living. The tours last for around three hours, so put on your best walking shoes, don a hat and take your strides!
The American dream is alive and well here at Georgetown Brewing Company. Friends Roger Bialous and Manny Chao turned their brewing-in-the-garage hobby into this fixture of the Pacific Northwest beer scene. With five full-time brews and many others on tap, free samples make this the place for beer geeks to nerd out. Not sure which beer is right for you? The friendly staff is there to answer all your questions. Have a lot of questions? Take a Saturday brewery tour and learn how that fine beverage you're holding is made (just make sure to reserve your spot beforehand).