From the west, cars line the street to the holding area to catch the ferry to Edmonds, taking them to points all around the Greater Seattle and Western Washington region. Heading west, travelers disembark and buzz through town to destinations on the Olympic Peninsula and Vancouver Island, British Columbia. But they are missing a great opportunity to stop and visit a charming little village.
I live a mere 15 miles from Kingston, and I play "tourist" there whenever I get the chance. There is so much to do within a compact four or five blocks. It can be a full play day or just a spot to stop and grab a bite to eat. Either way, it's worth the time spent in Kingston.
For tourists and locals alike, Kingston offers a fun-filled time on the shores of Puget Sound. To view a slide show tour of Kingston, go here.
Getting to Kingston
If you are coming to Kingston via the Edmonds-Kingston ferry route, you will have traveled about a half hour over Puget Sound from Edmonds. For a more stress-free trip, leave your car in Edmonds and join foot-traffic travelers to Kingston.
Note that all west-bound travelers and vehicles from Edmonds pay a fare, while the east-bound ferry from Kingston to Edmonds charges only a fare for vehicles and drivers. Go here to find the schedule and fares for the Edmonds-Kingston ferry route.
If you are traveling from the west to take the ferry to the Greater Seattle area, stop for awhile before getting in the ferry line. You can park your vehicle on one of the side streets or in the marina parking lot, next to the ferry terminal. When you are ready to get on the ferry, drive a couple blocks around and get back in the holding lane that takes you to the terminal.
Enjoy the Eateries
Start your visit with a meal. There is an abundance of eateries in downtown Kingston. Take your pick: fish and chips, Mexican, French crepes, pub food, Italian specialties, vegetarian, breakfast specialties, hamburgers, pizza - there is something for everyone's taste. During the sunny and warmer days, many of the restaurants offer outside seating.
Something for Everyone
There are shops to explore, such as the Kingston Quilt Shop with a wide variety of sewing materials or the Clever Gift Shop. You can even take in a first-run movie at the recently remodeled Firehouse Theater. There are sports bars with pool tables and flat screen TVs to watch your favorite games.
Experience the Outdoors
Located on the shores of Apple Tree Cove, on the west side of Puget Sound, Kingston offers magnificent views of the Sound, greater Seattle and the Cascade mountains. There is a water view from nearly every spot in Kingston.
The Port of Kingston Marina is just to the left of the ferry walk-off ramp. Next to it is the popular Mike Wallace Park. The park complex is the location for many Kingston activities, including the Saturday Farmers' Market, May through October, and other summer and fall celebrations. The fourth of July parade and festival is an especially fun family-oriented event. For more information about up-coming events, go to the Chamber of Commerce's website.
There are several other well-cared-for parks, all within walking distance, where you can eat a take-out lunch, walk your dog, play tennis, let the kids enjoy playground equipment, or walk on the beach at low tide.
Enjoy Kingston
On your way to someplace else, or as a destination day trip, take the time to explore Kingston, Washington. You'll be glad you did!
Sources:
Kingston, Washington Chamber of Commerce
Washington State Ferry System
No comments:
Post a Comment