Things To Do
Mount Rainier National Park
We had our first date in Washington here. Later, we got engaged here too! Highly recommended for any activity level - as a beautiful, scenic drive, or a breathtaking trail network for hikes :)
Puget Sound / Gig Harbor
Great dining on the water and fun places to recreate/boat/paddle board. You can even rent a gondola ride through the harbor, just like the boats in Venice, Italy.
Seabrook
This quaint coastal town is a wonderful place to spend a day, as the town and beach are so close together. The restaurant options are great, and the grass near the pickleball courts makes a great spot for a picnic :)
Din Tai Fung
Watch the pros while they work on these specialty meals! Highly recommended for their steamed soup dumplings, cucumber salad, and desserts! Make a reservation in advance, or expect a wait - their quality is well known and worth it!
DERU
If Cherie Cecotti isn't around to share her famous homemade Italian deli sandwiches, the only thing that comes close is DERU. They use the freshest ingredients and lots of them at this locally-owned family restaurant. If you've got any room left for dessert, order a slice of any of their delicious cakes. You'll find yourself making friends with the next table to finish it all :) We recommend calling them about 2 hours ahead to check their wait times and put your name in- It's another well-known favorite worth the wait!
Mint City Coffee Roasting
For options closer to the venue, Mint City is a local favorite and PacNW must-have. This coffee house is one of our highest recommendations for small batch, full flavor roasts and awesome service. Options for any time of day, and you won't need a reservation hehe. Runner up spots are the Stout Coffee House (across the street from Mint City) and Fiddlers Coffee in Centralia. Can't go wrong, either way :)