Articles Tagged "Local attractions"

With so many small businesses and nonprofits operating in the area, Seattle homes for sale are never far from great thrift store finds. 

In addition to traditional thrifting brands, you'll also find a variety of vintage clothing boutiques that use eco-friendly practices.

All of this makes Seattle the perfect place to enjoy National Thrift Shop Day. It takes place on Wednesday, August 17 this year, and there is plenty of time to get ready for a day full of shopping. Our brokers know that it isn't always easy to decide where to start an exploration of beautiful Seattle, so we have a few pointers for you to enjoy as you plan your day.

Let's take a closer look at some of Seattle's top thrift stores:

• Goodwill Seattle – 1400 South Lane Street, Seattle, WA 98144
  Goodwill Seattle is a local storefront operated by one of the most trusted names in America's nonprofit scene. Shopping and donating help to fund free education and job training programs focused on Seattle adults. Besides the clothing, Goodwill Seattle is also known for a vast assortment of art, including pieces from local artists. Major sales of 30% to 50% off take place on a regular basis here.
  
  
• The Barn Owl – 2611 Northwest Market Street (Rear), Seattle, WA 98108
  The Barn Owl recently celebrated the opening of a new location, but its original Seattle store is still the most popular. You can get lost for hours here thanks to the racks and racks of authentic vintage clothes. Where else in Seattle can you find Elvis merchandise side by side with original Garfield toys, cups, and clocks? What's old is new again at The Barn Owl, and there is always something more to encounter.
  
  
• Bon Voyage Vintage – 110 South Washington Street, Seattle, WA 98104
  Bon Voyage Vintage will dazzle your senses with its range of products. It goes beyond standard thrift store finds to include candles, sleep spray, and other products promising unique sensory experiences. The focal point of the clothing is in local designers, particularly those working in styles inspired by the 1980s. Handmade gifts and vintage photography round out the intriguing selection.
  
  
• Assistance League Seattle – 1415 North 45th Street, Seattle, WA 98103
  Assistance League Seattle operates a full spectrum of programs intended to support students who are at risk or disadvantaged. Proceeds from its thrift store help to support these initiatives, like "Operation School Bell," which provides basic clothing assistance to kids who might otherwise drop out. Visit the shop on Thursdays, Fridays, or Saturdays to shop for a cause. You can even browse the racks online.
  
  
• Lucky Vintage – 5424 Ballard Avenue Northwest, Seattle, WA 98107
  Located alongside Lucky Dry Goods, the flagship location of Lucky Vintage is always busy with shoppers. From t-shirts and sweatshirts to designer dresses, this vintage brand is known for the bold and fanciful. It also sponsors fun and exciting events throughout the year. If you can't make it to the shop in person, its Etsy store and full online gallery will help ensure you don't have to miss out on any precious finds.
  
  
• Pretty Parlor – 119 Summit Avenue East, Seattle, WA 98102
  Pretty Parlor is an iconic Seattle corner boutique that offers vintage clothing and accessories for both women and men. It also has original designs that are constantly changing, plus a bridal collection. As a mainstay in the area since back in 2001, it has a dedicated following where you'll find Audrey Hepburn-inspired "fancy" fashion.

One-of-a-kind shops are just one of the many things locals love about life in Seattle. Ready to make this area your home?

Contact us to discover more about all Seattle has to offer.

Few sights can match the awe-inspiring experience of a sunrise over the spectacular natural scenery around Portland homes for sale, and there are plenty of great trails in the area that allow you to get a front-row seat for one of nature's most amazing displays. As an added bonus, hitting the trails early allows you to beat the crowds and leaves you plenty of time to tackle everything else you need to do in your busy day. Our brokers appreciate the natural beauty of Portland, and we've got all of the key details on some of the best trails for a sunrise hike around the city.

• Kelley Point Park – N. Kelly Point Rd., Portland, OR 97203
  Located at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, Kelly Point Park has a long, interesting history. In the early days of Oregon's settlement, this land was viewed as a place to start a city. Instead, it eventually became a city park, where you can watch the sunrise over the rivers with a pleasant breeze at your back. The Kelley Point Loop trail makes it easy to traverse the park with a short, scenic 1.7-mile hike.
  
  
• Powell Butte Nature Park – 16160 SE Powell Blvd., Portland, OR 97236
  If you're in the mood for a hike with some elevation, Powell Butte Nature Park is an excellent choice. The park is located on an extinct cinder cone volcano, with about 600 feet of elevation to hike before you reach the highest point. There are a variety of trails here to choose from, and watching the sunrise from the top of an extinct volcano is one Portland experience that you won't want to miss.
  
  
• Mt. Tabor Park – SE 60th Ave. & SE Salmon St., Portland, OR 97215
  Why settle for one hike on a cinder cone volcano when you can have two? Mt. Tabor Park is also located on a volcanic cinder cone, with paved trails that help you travel the 636 feet of elevation until you reach the top. This park offers some of the best views of the Portland skyline that you'll find anywhere, making it a great place to capture some sunrise photos during your hike.
  
  
• Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge – SE Sellwood Blvd. & SE 7th Ave., Portland, OR 97202
  For a sunrise hike with a side of bird watching, try a trip to Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge. The refuge features a 2.3-mile loop trail that offers excellent views of the blue herons that like to congregate here and allows you to watch the sunrise over the marsh. There are dozens of other species of birds to spot as you hike, with different species to see depending on what time of year you visit.
  
  
• Forest Park – Portland, OR 97231
  With more than 40 access points located around Portland, 80 miles of trails, and over 5,200 acres to explore, Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the world. There's a trail here for hikers of every experience level, and the Trail Map makes it easy to find an access point to Forest Park near your home. With hilly, occasionally steep terrain, this park rewards your hiking effort with some of the best sunrise views in Portland. The longest trail at Forest Park is the 30-mile Wildwood Trail, which is recognized as a National Recreation Trail and connects with many of the park's access points.
  
  
• Tom McCall Waterfront Park – 98 SW Naito Pkwy., Portland, OR 97204
  Located in the heart of downtown Portland along the Willamette River, Tom McCall Waterfront Park is a dog-friendly park ideal for a quick morning hike with your furry friend. While the scenery here is more urban than the other larger parks on our list, the waterfront views are still fantastic. There are also interactive fountains and splash pads perfect for keeping the kids entertained if you bring them along for your hike.
  
  
• Hoyt Arboretum – 4000 SW Fairview Blvd., Portland, OR 97221
  Speaking of kid-friendly hiking destinations, Hoyt Arboretum offers a number of advantages if you're going for a sunrise hike with the whole family. The trails here are expansive, well-marked, and easy to traverse, making them ideal for young hikers. Hoyt Arboretum is home to more than 2,000 species of shrubs and trees, with educational signs that make it easy to teach your kids about each species. Watching the sunrise above the towering trees and lush green scenery is something that visitors of all ages can appreciate.

Searching for a home that makes it easy to enjoy the natural beauty of Portland? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Portland, OR area.

Get to know the glittering jewel of Portland's incredible neighborhoods. Our brokers share their favorite must-see places in the chic and historic Pearl District.

History of the Pearl District

While the word "pearl" conjures up images of a shiny, polished gem, Portland's Pearl District was originally a gritty area that was home to railroads, warehouses, and industrial buildings. In the mid-1980s, urban renewal began transforming the neighborhood into a popular district known for art galleries, charming boutiques, and trendy restaurants.

At one time, the district was known simply as the Triangle, but a search began for a more satisfying name. The Rose Arts Magazine presented a list of suggestions, and the Pearl District ended up gaining favor as a reference to the artists who were setting up studios in warehouses being converted to lofts.

Activities

• Jamison Square - 810 NW 11th Ave., Portland, OR 97209
  Green spaces were a major part of the plan for the Pearl District, and the best-known may be Jamison Square. This pocket-sized park, just under one acre, is a favorite of families because of its centerpiece fountain. Designed to replicate a tidal pool, the fountain features a waterfall that cascades into a continually refilling basin. Park hours are 5 a.m. -  midnight daily. 
  
  
• First Thursday - NW 13th Ave. & NW Irving St., Portland, OR 97210
  First Thursday is one of three monthly art walks held in Portland. Artists are on hand at Pearl District galleries to discuss their work, as well as selling their pieces at street stands. Live music and refreshments complete the picture. Hours are 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. and admission is free.

Shops

• Powell's City of Books - 1005 W. Burnside St., Portland, OR 97209
  Founded in 1971, Powell's City of Books is a true Portland landmark. The store takes up an entire city block with nine color-coded rooms that encompass more than 3,500 different sections. Book lovers from around the country flock to the Rare Book Room, which includes autographed first editions and other items of interest. Powell's is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Recycled Chic Boutique - 239 NW 13th Ave., Suite 209, Portland, OR 97209
  It's no surprise that Portland residents want to look stylish while still observing their commitment to the environment. Recycled Chic Boutique offers a thoughtfully curated selection of gently-used designer clothing and accessories, from casual streetwear to high fashion. You're likely to find brands such as Alexander McQueen, Burberry, and Jimmy Choo represented. Hours are noon - 4 p.m. on weekdays.

Dining

• Fuller's Coffee Shop - 136 NW 9th Ave., Portland, OR 97209
  Tradition is alive and well in the Pearl District at Fuller's Coffee Shop. This old-school diner opened in 1947 and still retains the delightful retro ambiance. Instead of booths or tables, take a seat at the classic U-shaped counters with swivel stools. Breakfast is served all day, as well as comfort food favorites such as BLTs, burgers, and egg salad sandwiches. Fuller's is open 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. daily except Sunday when starting time is 8 a.m. 
  
  
• Oven and Shaker - 1134 NW Everett St., Portland, OR 97209
  Pizza may be considered casual food, but it's serious business at Oven and Shaker. Chef Cathy Whims, a multiple James Beard award nominee, was inspired by numerous trips to Italy. Oven and Shaker's pizza begins with their signature 70-year-old sourdough starter and features fresh local ingredients for the toppings. Pies are hand-tossed and fired in a Milanese wood-burning oven that was transported brick-by-brick from Europe. Hours are 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. Friday, noon - 10 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday.

Entertainment

• Portland Center Stage - 128 NW 11th Ave., Portland, OR 97209
  From its origins as a branch of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Portland Center Stage has grown to become one of the top 20 regional theaters in the country. In addition to plays, Center Stage hosts events such as art exhibits, improv shows, and live music. 
  
  
• The Big Legrowlski - 812 NW Couch St., Portland, Or 97209
  At The Big Legrowlski shows are on every night, featuring the best local musicians, open jams, and dance parties with top DJs. Hours are 7 p.m. - midnight Sunday through Thursday and 6 p.m. - midnight Wednesday through Saturday. Showtime is 7 p.m. Cover charge runs $5-$10, with no cover for open jams.

No one knows Portland homes for sale like our cheerful and experienced brokers. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to learn more.

Portland offers plenty of restaurants serving fantastic international dishes. Whether you're in search of a new favorite roll or you've never tried sushi before, join our brokers in celebrating International Sushi Day on Saturday, June 18 with a visit to one of these amazing Portland restaurants.

• Bamboo Sushi - 310 SE 28th Ave., Portland, OR 97214 
  In 2008, Bamboo Sushi established a new level in responsible dining by becoming the world's first certified sustainable sushi restaurant. They have partnered with organizations such as the Marine Stewardship Council, an independent group that sets guidelines for sustainable fishing and seafood traceability. Don't miss their Big Island roll, a customer favorite that's available as a "Little Island" vegetarian option. Bamboo Sushi is open 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. daily except Friday and Saturday when doors close at 10 p.m.
  
  
• Masu Sushi - 406 SW 13th Ave., Portland, OR 97205
  At Masu Sushi, the dining room is as much a feast for the eyes as the food itself. Masu is located on the secluded second floor of a turn-of-the-century building in downtown Portland. The mid-century modern decor creates an ambiance that's both elegant and comfortable. Add a touch of drama by ordering the St. Helens Volcano roll, which comes in an appropriately flaming presentation. Masu is open seven days a week from 5 p..m. - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Murata Japanese Restaurant - 200 SW Market St., Portland, OR 97201
  Are you looking for a traditional Japanese dining experience? Join family and friends in one of the classic tatami rooms at Murata Japanese Restaurant. Fans of Murata appreciate the attentive and efficient customer service, with food arriving promptly but no one feels rushed. If anyone in your group doesn't eat sushi, Murata has a full menu of other Japanese favorites, including teriyaki, tonkatsu, and broiled fish. Seating is limited, so reservations are strongly recommended. Lunch hours are 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. weekdays and dinner hours are 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
  
  
• Mirakutei - 536 E. Burnside St., Portland, OR 87214
  Mirakutei, which translates to, "a place to eat and enjoy," perfectly sums up the restaurant's mission. Sushi chef Hiro Ikegaya founded Mirakutei in 2011 as a Japanese tapas, ramen, and sushi bar. Upon his semi-retirement in 2018, he passed the baton to brothers Nico and Job Martinez, who worked their way up under Hiro's tutelage. Treat yourself to omakase, or "chef's choice," which is available any time on request. Hours are noon - 9 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Yoko's Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar - 2878 SE Gladstone St., Portland, OR 97202
  Yoko's Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar dates back more than 30 years, to the time when sushi was still somewhat new on the Portland dining scene. The restaurant is still a trailblazer thanks to Yoko herself, who is one of only a relative handful of female sushi chefs in the country. Andrea Damewood, restaurant critic of the Portland Mercury, calls Taka's Tuna "the most iconic sushi dish in town." This unique item features spicy ahi tuna, avocado, and rice fried into the shape and texture of a McDonald's hash brown patty. Hours are 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. every day but Monday.
  
  
• Sho Japanese Restaurant - 10100 Barbur Blvd., Portland, OR 97219
  While Sho Japanese Restaurant serves authentic dishes, they aim to blend tradition with the best elements of Portland's thriving food scene. In this family-owned restaurant, all dressing, sauces, and broths, including dashi, are made from scratch with high-quality ingredients. Sho also sources all seasonal vegetables from local growers whenever possible. According to one rave review, a diner was so pleased with their food that they immediately ordered more to take home. Lunch is served weekdays from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m., while dinner hours are 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Sho is open weekends from 11:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 
  
  
• Sushi Mazi - 2126 SE Division St., Portland, OR 97292
  Whether you're talking business, sharing a romantic date night, or meeting friends for dinner and drinks, Sushi Mazi is the place to be. The sleek, contemporary decor complements chef Marc Mazi's cutting-edge approach to sushi, experimenting with ingredients and techniques. If you're following a special diet, the menu includes a number of vegetarian and gluten-free options. Most items are available as your choice of nigiri, sashimi, roll, or cone. Hours are 3 p.m. - 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 3 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Portland homes for sale are surrounded by a diversity that's unlike anyplace else. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for qualified help buying or selling a home. 

Reading is an excellent year-round activity for family members of all ages to enjoy. Plus, the Pacific Northwest is home to many local bookstores full of books to add to your summer reading list. While summer reading is certainly enjoyed outdoors, an indoor reading nook makes it so you can enjoy your new favorite novel even when it is raining. 

After you've stocked up on new reads, follow these tips for creating a cozy reading spot in your home. 

1. Select a Quiet Spot with Minimal Distractions
   Most people prefer to read in a quiet, serene environment so that they can focus on their book and won't be distracted by typical household sounds. If you're worried that your home is lacking sufficient space for a designated reading space, one idea is to turn a closet into a reading nook by adding a built-in bench. Or, if you have an area that you aren't sure how to use, like a built-in seat or a storage area under your stairs, this is an excellent spot for your reading nook. Another option is to set up your reading nook outside. A deck, porch, or shade tree are excellent spots to transform into a reading nook. Once you find your ideal spot, decide how you want to store your books. Floating shelves, a designated bookcase, and a utility cart are all options for housing your reading materials. If you need to house your books in a different location than your reading nook, a metal utility card works especially well because you can roll the books to and from your nook and their permanent storage area. 
   
   
2. Make Your Reading Nook Cozy and Comfortable
   A comfortable reading nook just begs you to spend hours curled up with your favorite book. Outfit the space with furniture and accessories that are pleasant to use, like overstuffed chairs, soft beanbags, a chaise lounge chair, a recliner, a love seat, a hammock, an egg chair, plush throw pillows, soft blankets, or comfy floor cushions. If your nook is outside, add a waterproof storage chest to conveniently store pillows, blankets, and cushions when you aren't using them. 
   
   
3. Add Decor
   Your reading nook should incorporate decorative items that make you happy to use the space, like your favorite scented candle, fairy lights, fun photos or interesting artwork, wall decals, flowers, and plants. For an extra special literary twist, add elements from your favorite novels, such as wall art with quotes from a book you love. 
   
   
4. Make Sure Your Space is Functional
   It isn't sufficient for your reading nook to merely look nice; it needs to include elements that ensure it's a terrific fit for your needs. For example, you might like to enjoy a hot cup of coffee and a snack while you read. You'll appreciate having a side table in your reading nook so that you're not trying to balance a tray on your lap while you read. Or, perhaps your reading nook is outside on your deck. When the weather is too hot, you find that the heat distracts you from your book. Consider adding a small tabletop fan so that you can quickly cool your reading space when the temperature inches upward. You should also confirm that you have ample lighting to illuminate your book so that you don't strain your eyes. A task lamp with soft light is an excellent addition that ensures you have sufficient illumination. There are even rechargeable task lamps available if your nook doesn't have an electric outlet that's easily accessible. 
   
   
5. Banish Clutter from Your Reading Nook
   Not only does clutter make your reading nook less inviting, but it can distract you from your book. Make it a rule to never let clutter accumulate in your reading space by giving everything a home and always putting an item back where it belongs. If items still have a way of finding a spot in your reading nook, despite your best efforts, one option is to add a stylish bin or basket so that you can store the clutter out of sight until you're through reading and ready to put it away or dispose of it.

Want a home with more space for your books or for a larger reading nook? Or a home where you can enjoy your favorite hobbies year-round? Our brokers can help! Contact us today to begin your search! 

Seattle is known as the "Emerald City" thanks to the lush greenery that surrounds it, especially the many amazing forests. Seattle homes for sale benefit from these unique surroundings and much more: Strong local businesses, a vibrant cultural scene, and some of the best dining in the region.

Our real estate agents know Seattle has a reputation for rain, but you'll also have "can't miss" rooftop dining opportunities. While many of them are available only in spring and summer, some covered and climate-controlled rooftop patios have recently opened for dining all year around.

The Seattle skyline is even more striking with the right view, so check out these local restaurants where seasonal rooftop dining is on the menu:

• The Mountaineering Club – 4507 Brooklyn Avenue Northeast, Seattle, WA 98105
  Perched on the grounds of the Graduate Seattle hotel in the famous University District, The Mountaineering Club has ample seating with full views of both the city and the mountains. Oysters on toast are a favorite, along with a curated selection of handcrafted cocktails. Delivery is also available.
  
  
• Rooftop Brewing Company – 1220 West Nickerson Street, Seattle, WA 98119
  The rooftop patio of the Rooftop Brewing Company is outfitted with full picnic table dining, great for meeting up with friends. Complimentary board games will help you pass the time, and you can even bring your favorite canine. An assortment of food trucks provides diverse options for lunch or dinner.
  
  
• MBar – 400 Fairview Avenue North, Floor #14, Seattle, WA 98109
  MBar gives you the chance to see Lake Union and the Space Needle at the same time! This spot will delight all of your senses with the beautiful surroundings and a lavish menu. Middle Eastern cuisine such as kebabs and mezze are always ready for you, along with a robust pairing menu of tasty beverages.
  
  
• Mezcaleria Oaxaca – 422 East Pine Street, Seattle, WA 98122
  Mezcaleria Oaxaca has a rooftop patio designed to protect you from the sun while still giving you the unimpeded views you crave. It's one of the largest spaces on this list, with room for several full parties at once. A specialty bar accessible only from the roof offers a variety of exclusive cocktails.
  
  
• Terra Plata – 1501 Melrose Avenue, Seattle, WA 98122
  Led by executive chef Tamara Murphy, Terra Plata celebrates Central and South American cuisine with mouthwatering dishes like Peruvian chicken and roasted pig. With its covered and heated roof deck, Terra Plata can accommodate outdoor dining at times when other restaurants would not.
  
  
• Fog Room – 1610 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
  The crown jewel of the Charter Hotel, Fog Room is one of the best places to go for views of Downtown Seattle – with the Great Wheel right at center stage. Food offerings run the gamut from artisanal cheese and snack plates to lobster rolls, roasted king salmon, and New York strip steak, among many others.
  
  
• The Nest Rooftop Bar – 110 Stewart Street, Seattle, WA 98101
  The Nest Rooftop Bar is a popular stop for those exploring Pike Place Market. Its panoramic view overlooks Puget Sound and the iconic Olympic mountains. With a sprawling 3,500 square feet of space, there are plenty of seating options. You can enjoy the view from inside with the floor-to-ceiling windows.
  
  
• Frolik Kitchen and Cocktails – 1415 5th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101
  Last but not least, among rooftop hotel restaurants, Frolik Kitchen and Cocktails is at the peak of the Motif. Its patio creates a relaxing atmosphere with fire pits and lawn games. Frolik has become known for its occasional partnership with Mixtape Pasta, a local sensation you shouldn't miss.
  
  
• Monsoon – 615 19th Avenue East, Seattle, WA 98112
  Monsoon brings rooftop dining to a higher level – figuratively and literally – with its chef-driven take on Vietnamese food. Saigon Dungeness pepper crab is the #1 menu item, a mainstay that has been around since the opening of Monsoon Seattle almost twenty years ago.
  
  
• Maximilien – 81A Pike Street, Seattle, WA, 98101
  Take your French cuisine higher with Maximilien, a charming eatery to stop at when you're enjoying a day out in Pike Place Market. Perhaps best loved for its brunch, it is the vision of Chef Christian Potvin, whose storied career began at age 16 when he apprenticed at Le Meaban in France.

Coldwell Banker Bain is here to help you get to know Seattle. Contact us to discover more about Seattle homes.

The Portland Saturday Market is a local treasure in the area around our Portland homes for sale. With a history dating back nearly 50 years, it's easy to see why. This gathering of local vendors is a remarkable achievement. Let's take a closer look at the Portland Saturday Market and see what keeps it drawing so much attention after all these years. 

History

The Portland Saturday Market began in 1974 as a small gathering of local vendors interested in selling their wares to people in their community. This type of market was common in the early 1970s, reflecting high levels of interest in crafts like macrame, tie-dye, and crochet. 

The market started small, but it was a beloved local tradition that many hoped to see expand in the coming years. Eventually, it attracted the attention of Bill Naito, a major investor in Portland's economic development. Naito supported the endeavor, and the market was given permission to use a plot of land in the city's downtown core each weekend. This land is currently known as 2 SW Naito Parkway and sits between Waterfront Park and Ankeny Plaza. The space is marked by a large curving golden sign designating it as the official market location. 

After nearly 50 years, the Portland Saturday Market is currently the largest continuously running outdoor market in the US. It is open on Saturdays from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sundays from 11 AM to 4:30 PM. It is also open for the entire week before Christmas to give shoppers a chance to pick up any last-minute gifts they need. The market typically takes a short break between Christmas and early March to account for the cold Oregon weather at this time.

Currently, the Portland Saturday Market boasts over 400 vendors, attracts 750,000 visitors per year, and is responsible for around $12 million in annual sales. 

Shopping, Lunch, and More

The Portland Saturday Market is well-known for its impressive selection of craft items. Visitors can purchase items like skirts, scarves, earrings, greeting cards, stickers, prints, and more. All items sold at the market are handmade by craftspeople from all over the Pacific Northwest. The same vendors are usually present from week to week, so if you like a particular vendor's wares, you can always come back for more. 

Visitors can also purchase food and drink from the fleet of food trucks that drives into the event space every weekend. Many people stop by the market just to enjoy a delicious lunch from one of these businesses and enjoy the market's laid-back bohemian atmosphere. Our brokers have been known to stop in for a bite between showings! 

During the first Sunday each month from July to October, the market hosts special kids' activities for the local children. These include puppet shows, crafting demonstrations, and other entertainment. The market also receives some grant funding from Metropolitan Arts Commission in recognition of its role in promoting the work of local artists. It's a great place to go if you want to become better acquainted with the work of artists in this famously creative area. 

The Fun Continues Online

In an effort to expand its reach and comply with social distancing requirements, the market has also set up an online store. Shoppers can purchase items from the market directly on the organization's website. This site is constantly updated with the latest wares, making it a great place to get a preview of what you'll find in the market in person that week. Each seller manages the listings for their own products, and some may take orders for custom items if contacted in advance. 

Most sellers ship their wares to addresses in Portland and the surrounding area. Some sellers may ship items to farther locations upon request. Be sure to ask sellers about shipping availability and costs before placing an order.

Make Portland Your Home Today

The Portland Saturday Market is more successful than ever, and it's very likely that it will continue to grow in the coming years. If you're interested in living closer to this thriving small business community, contact us today. We'll help you find the perfect Portland home for your needs and budget. 

Seattle is known for its vibrant restaurant scene, and there is a growing number of local restaurants making their mark with authentic and flavorful BBQ. Join our brokers and celebrate National Barbecue Month in May with a meal or two at these great BBQ spots. 

• Pecos Pit - 2260 1st Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98134
  The legend of Pecos Pit began with a modest carryout window in SoDo that was beloved by Mariners fans and workers at nearby businesses. Iconic Seattle restauranteur Gerry Kingen took over in 2010 and opened a sit-down outpost in West Seattle with the same hearty sandwiches and creative side dishes. There's also a spinoff, Pike's Pit, located in historic Pike Place Market. SoDo hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday. West Seattle is open daily from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Bitterroot - 5239 Ballard Ave. NW, Seattle, WA 98107
  Bitterroot is dedicated to the three B's: BBQ, beer, and bourbon. Their smoked meats are prepared with a dry rub, allowing you to apply your own choice of four housemade BBQ sauces. The beer and whiskey list has been carefully curated to provide perfect complements to the food. Bitterroot is also the temporary home of Mammoth, their sister BBQ spot, serving up appropriately-named sandwiches such as the Sabertooth, a take on a Cuban sandwich with pulled pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and Dijon mustard. Hours are 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon - 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Wood Shop BBQ - 2513 S. Jackson St., Seattle, WA 98144
  Matt Davis of Kansas and James Barrington of Texas created a happy medium of regional favorites with the tasty food at Wood Shop BBQ. Meats are prepared in a smoker with the whimsical name of Brad Pit, using hickory wood from the Ozarks and post oak wood from Texas. Wood Shop has also developed a reputation for serving what some have called the best mac and cheese in the state. Can't make it to the restaurant? Their food truck makes regular stops at establishments around Seattle homes for sale. Wood Shop is open from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
  
  
• Jones Original Barbecue - 4417 Fauntleroy Way SW, Seattle, WA 98126
  Located in a small, blink-and-you'll-miss-it storefront off the West Seattle Bridge, Jones Original Barbecue is worth the trip. Their primary claim to fame is the sweet/hot sauce, which comes in mild, medium, and hot varieties you can take home by the bottle. Their rib, pork, brisket, and chicken dinners come with a generous half-pound of meat and two sides. Heartier appetites or undecided customers go for the combos, including your choice of any or all of the different meats. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and noon - 8 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Lady Jaye - 4523 California Ave. SW, Seattle, WA 98116  
  Lady Jaye describes the vibe of their restaurant as "Anthony Bourdain meets Clint Eastwood." This perfectly sums up their blend of traditional BBQ and contemporary sensibilities. Cletus, a 2,500-pound smoker, constructed from an old air tank found at an archery factory in Walla Walla, is Lady Jaye's MVP. The menu features upscale dishes such as prime bulgogi short rib melt, smoked tofu chili, and smoked Delmonico cheesesteak. Don't miss the baked odds & ends black-eyed peas, flavored with all the bits and pieces left behind in Cletus. Lady Jaye is open 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 4 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Lil Red Jamaican BBQ & Soul Cuisine - 4225 Rainier Ave. S, Seattle, WA 98118
  Barbecue goes global at Lil Red Jamaican BBQ & Soul Cuisine. The bold flavors of Jamaica marry well with tangy American BBQ. The menu offers jerk chicken and pork, cooked low and slow over a grill with a marinade that gets heat from Scotch bonnet peppers. Lil Red is also the rare BBQ restaurant that incorporates seafood, prepared escovitch-style with a topping of onions, bell peppers, Scotch bonnet peppers, and vinegar. Hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.

No matter how long you've lived here, there's always something new to discover in Seattle. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for experienced help with all your real estate needs. 

The Little Free Library movement has been gaining popularity in cities all around the country, but few places have embraced it with more enthusiasm than Seattle. All around the city, you'll find Little Free Libraries where you can freely exchange books with friends and neighbors. Find something new and exciting to read while supporting a good cause in the process. Our brokers have more information on what Little Free Libraries are all about and where you can find some of the many Little Free Libraries in Seattle.

What is a Little Free Library?

The Little Free Library (LFL) movement started with simple goals, to provide a way for communities to freely exchange books and foster a love of reading in communities all around the country. In order to accomplish this goal, charters are issued to people who want to set up a Little Free Library in their neighborhood. Most Little Free Libraries come in the form of book exchange boxes holding a few dozen books, which are open for all to enjoy. You can download the LFL app or check the interactive map to help you easily find libraries close to you. It's also easy to register online if you're interested in setting up a new LFL in your own neighborhood near Seattle homes for sale.

Little Free Library Locations in Seattle

• Essentia Seattle – 2008 1st Ave., Seattle, WA 98121
  The employees at the Essentia mattress store in Seattle include many who enjoy a good book, so the team at the store came together to set up a Little Free Library to share that love of reading with everyone who happens to stop by. This LFL is located in the Belltown neighborhood, surrounded by other shops, salons, dining destinations, and residential properties.
  
  
• Cayton Corner Park – 1625 19th Ave., Seattle, WA 98122
  The Friends of Cayton Corner Park are hard at work designing and building a new park at the corner of 19th Ave. and Madison for everyone in the community to enjoy. They've set up an LFL in a temporary location that will be there throughout the construction process of the new park and plan to find a more permanent location for the LFL once Cayton Corner Park is officially ready to open to the community.
  
  
• Center for Wooden Boats – 1010 Valley St., Seattle, WA 98109
  Interested in borrowing books with a nautical theme? One of the more distinctive Little Free Libraries in Seattle can be found at the Center for Wooden Boats, where the library exchange box is built from the bow of an old wooden rowboat. Fittingly, you can find this LFL on the docks in Lake South Union, and it's open for borrowing during regular business hours for the Center for Wooden Boats.
  
  
• Alison Marti Little Free Library – 211 Howe St., Seattle, WA 98109
  Created in honor of a parent who instilled a love of reading in her children, the Alison Marti LFL is all about sharing that love of reading with the next generation of young bookworms. This LFL is regularly stocked with fresh children's books, from old, classic books that have been passed down for generations to the latest releases in children's literature. Stop by to grab a book to read to your own kids or donate a book for other children to enjoy.
  
  
• Bagley Blues Little Free Library – 3812 Bagley Ave N., Seattle, WA 98103
  One of quite a few Little Free Libraries along Bagley Ave., the Bagley Blues LFL offers a unique perk. Along with a great rotating selection of different books, this library is built next to an herb garden in planters. The library's owner encourages visitors to take home a few sprigs of fresh herbs for themselves, along with a book.
  
  
• John Hay Jaguars – 2235 12th Ave. W., Seattle, WA 98119
  Constructed and signed by the 2020 fifth grade class from John Hay Elementary, the John Hay Jaguars LFL is a great example of the creativity that goes into building so many of the Little Free Libraries in Seattle. It includes a beautiful glass window, a shingled roof, and a red coat of paint to match the school's colors.

Ready to find a home close to all of the art, culture, and community spirit Seattle has to offer? Our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Seattle, WA, area.

Are you searching for a unique shopping experience near Portland homes for sale? You won't have to look far for a historic shopping area that embodies the true spirit of Portland. Our brokers would like to introduce you to the Alberta Arts District!

The Alberta Arts District sits along Northeast Alberta Street in Northeast Portland, crossing parts of the highly desirable Vernon, Concordia, and King neighborhoods. Its energetic and eclectic vibe is powered by its lively community of artists and entrepreneurs.

Throughout the year, many live musical events are focused on the Alberta Arts District, and it's a great place to stop for a bite to eat with many delicious restaurants to choose from. As you explore the storefronts, you'll encounter vibrant murals, sculptures, and a whole lot more. There's always something new to see and do.

Let's look at some of the best places to do some local shopping in the Alberta Arts District:

• Amelia – 2230 Northeast Alberta Street, Portland, OR 97211
  Amelia is a boutique that focuses on feminine flair with a vintage aesthetic. The unique, limited edition products are often not available anywhere else. In addition to clothes, you'll find necklaces, earrings, nail care products, fragrances, candles, art, and crystals.
  
  
• Antler Gallery – 2728 Northeast Alberta Street, Portland, OR 97211
  Now celebrating its 10-year anniversary, Antler Gallery features the works of local artists from all over Oregon, as well as national and international pieces. Nearly 60 creative visionaries call Antler Gallery their artistic home. It also holds a fascinating collection of limited edition and rare prints.
  
  
• Pie Footwear – 2916 Northeast Alberta Street, Portland, OR 97211
  Locally owned and operated, Pie Footwear is a shoe store catering to women and men with a distinctive Portland style. Its inventory includes "zero drop" footwear you'll barely feel on your feet. Pie is also well known for its line of vegan footwear. Many of its products are handmade right in the local area.
  
  
• Ecovibe – 1906 Northeast Alberta Street, Portland, OR 97211
  Ecovibe will delight you with its selection of kitchenware, decor, and art. It also has a veritable forest of local house plants and air plants sorted by need, size, and type, complete with a potting service located right on site. Local chocolates and candies like honey meltaways will also be an extra sweet addition to your shopping experience.
  
  
• Grasshopper Boutique – 1816 Northeast Alberta Street, Portland OR 97211
  From babies to growing tweens and teens, Grasshopper Boutique is where to find fun and educational toys, games, and books to expand young minds. Clothes, puzzles, art supplies, and musical instruments just for the little ones are also stocked in abundant supply, so imaginations can really soar.
  
  
• Frock – 1439 Northeast Alberta Street, Portland, OR 97211
  Frock is a magical place for vintage and handmade fashions and accessories. Working with local designers, it has a seasonal bent, closing its doors four times each year only to spring back into action with all-new offerings and even entire product lines.
  
  
• Blendily - 1532 NE Alberta Street, Portland, OR 97211
  Say goodbye to the chemicals in your skincare routine and support local when you shop at Blendily. All of their products are handmade in their stores, plus they put an emphasis on using plants from their own garden. Their homemade products include a selection of serums, soaps, and aromatherapy products. The Alberta Street store is their second location with another one in the Seattle area.

There is always something new to check out in the Portland area. The Alberta Arts District is a fantastic place to do some shopping and offers a glimpse into some of the makers and artists who call the area home! Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to learn more about life in the Portland area.

You never run out of interesting things to see and do in Portland. Old Town Chinatown is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offers some truly unique attractions in the Portland area. Our brokers love telling people about Portland and all it has to offer! Be sure to check out these 7 places in Old Town Chinatown. 

1. Lan Su Chinese Garden - 239 NW Everett St, Portland, OR 97209
   A nod to Portland's Chinese heritage, the Lan Su Chinese Garden is a tranquil botanical garden in the heart of Old Town Chinatown. The garden was founded in 2000 in partnership with the city of Suzhou, which is Portland's sister city in China. In addition to its magnificent stonework and lush assortment of native Chinese plants and trees, the Lan Su Chinese Garden includes an authentic Chinese tea house, which is surrounded by beautiful foliage and water features. The garden is just minutes from many Portland homes for sale. 
   
   
2. Portland Saturday Market - 2 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204
   Held every Saturday from March until Christmas, the Portland Saturday Market is the oldest continuously-operated outdoor market in the United States. Since 1974, it's been Portland's best destination for art, crafts, and freshly made food. The market overlooks the Willamette River, between the west side of the Burnside Bridge and the Old Town Archways. More than 250 vendors make visiting the Portland Saturday Market a fun, colorful, ever-changing experience. 
   
   
3. Portland Oregon White Stag Sign - 70 NW Couch St, Portland, OR 97209
   The Portland Oregon White Stag Sign is easily one of the most iconic and often-photographed landmarks in Portland. The instantly-recognizable neon sign is perched atop the White Stag Building, overlooking the Burnside Bridge. Although it has changed a handful of times over the years since the sign was first illuminated in 1940, it remains one of the city's must-see attractions. You always know it's Christmastime in Portland when the White Stag sign is given its red nose for the season! 
   
   
4. Portland Union Station - 800 NW 6th Ave, Portland, OR 97209
   Portland was a major West Coast boomtown in the late 1800s, and its rapid growth was spurred on even more by the arrival of the railroads. The Portland Union Station has served as the city's primary rail hub since it opened its doors on Valentine's day in 1896. To this day, it's an active railway station in addition to being a link to Oregon's past. Portland Union Station is known for its Romanesque clock tower, which is a fixture of the Old Town Chinatown skyline. 
   
   
5. Dan and Louis Oyster Bar - 208 SW Ankeny St, Portland, OR 97204
   There are plenty of places in Old Town Chinatown to grab a drink and a bite to eat, but none offer a taste of Portland's history quite like Dan and Louis Oyster Bar. This beloved local watering hole and eatery has been in the same location since 1907 when it was first opened as City Oyster Co. by Louis C. Wachsmuth. The name was changed to Dan and Louis Oyster Bar after a newspaper article noted that Louis' son Dan was always there working. It's still one of the best places in Portland to enjoy happy hour drinks and shuck a few oysters. 
   
   
6. Voodoo Doughnut - 22 SW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204
   If Dan and Louis Oyster Bar represents Old Portland, then Voodoo Donut must represent New Portland. Offering an eclectic assortment of colorful, flavorful pastries, Voodoo Donut was a hole-in-the-wall joint known only to locals until 2009, when it blew up after being prominently featured on The Amazing Race. They're known for creative offerings like their raspberry-filled Voodoo Doll donut, complete with a pretzel "stake" through its heart. A lot of their donuts are vegan as well. 
   
   
7. Oregon Maritime Museum - 198 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204
   The Oregon Maritime Museum is a unique, must-visit attraction on the Portland Waterfront. This floating museum is housed inside the Sternwheeler Portland, a historic steam-powered sternwheel tugboat docked on the Old Town Chinatown waterfront in the Willamette River. The fully-restored craft dates back to the turn of the 20th century, and its the last operational ship of its kind in the United States. The ship is open to the public on guided group tours and houses a wide range of artifacts and memorabilia in addition to the Sternwheeler itself. 

Looking for more information on Portland's distinctive neighborhoods and historic districts? Contact us today to learn more about life in Portland, and talk to our brokers about finding your dream home in the Portland area. 

Ireland is over 4,000 miles away from Seattle homes for sale, but that distance vanishes on St. Patrick's Day. Celebrate the luck o' the Irish by donning your finest green outfit and joining our brokers at these exciting holiday events around Seattle. 

• St. Patrick's Day Bar Crawl - SPIN Seattle, 1511 6th Ave., Seattle, WA 98101
  St. Patrick's Day in Seattle is so big that one day alone can't contain it. You can enjoy not one but two St. Patrick's Day Bar Crawls across two weekends. Gain cover charge-free access to participating venues, along with a number of great drink specials. Start the crawling at 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 12, and 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 17. Tickets are $15-$45.
  
  
• St. Patrick's Day Dash - Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St., Seattle, WA 98109
  Offset the calories from all the green beer at the annual St. Patrick's Day Dash. For the 38th year, participants of all ages and levels of experience will head out on the 5K route that begins and ends at Seattle Center. Groups will be based on whether you plan to dash, jog, or walk. Kids 10 and under can complete the 1K Leprechaun Lap on the Center grounds and still join the family for the 5K. Race time is 8 a.m. on Sunday, March 13, with the Post Dash Bash keeping the fun going until noon. Registration fees are $50 for the 5K and $25 for the 1K, which includes a free shirt.
  
  
• Erin Go Baroque - St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 111 NE 80th St., Seattle, WA 98115
  Ireland has given the world some of the most lyrical and heartfelt folk music ever. Spend an evening immersed in Celtic music and culture at Erin Go Baroque on Friday, March 11. Soprano Natalie Ingrisano joins fiddler Brandon Vance and Henry Lebedinski on harpsichord and guitar for some traditional reels, Strathspeys, jigs, marches, and sonatas. Admission includes a tasting of five premium Irish whiskies. Showtime is 7:30 p.m., and tickets are $40.
  
  
• Geoffrey Castle's St. Patrick's Day Celebration - Historic Everett Theatre, 2911 Colby Ave., Everett, WA 98201
  Looking for a family-friendly holiday activity? After a day of viewing Everett homes for sale, plan on an evening at Geoffrey Castle's St. Patrick's Day Celebration. Even your teenagers won't be able to resist clapping along as electric six-string violinist Geoffrey Castle displays his incredible skill. Geoffrey brings his energetic show to Historic Everett Theatre for the 15th time on Thursday, March 17. Showtime is 7:30 p.m., and tickets are $25-$30.
  
  
• Blarney Stone Pub - 1416 1st Ave., Seattle, WA 98101
  The Emerald City meets the Emerald Isle at the Blarney Stone Pub. This pet-friendly, Irish-themed sports bar features a menu of traditional dishes, such as shepherd's pie and corned beef & cabbage, made with fresh Northwest ingredients. In addition to a full selection of Irish whiskies, the bar stocks Guinness and Harp on tap. Hours are 2 p.m. - 2 a.m. Monday through Thursday and noon - 2 a.m. Friday through Sunday. 
  
  
• T.S. McHugh's - 21 Mercer St., Seattle, WA 98109
  If you've never been to T.S. McHugh's, St. Patrick's Day is the perfect time for your first visit. This iconic Seattle pub, open since 1990, has a warm, welcoming ambiance that includes dark wood decor and historic memorabilia. T. S. McHugh's is right across the street from Seattle Center, making it a perfect spot before or after a Kraken game or a show at the Seattle Rep. Dine on ale-battered fish and chips, Irish potato skins, and bangers & mash paired with a pint of Guinness or Harp. Hours are 3 p.m. until close Tuesday through Sunday.

Ready to celebrate every season in the Pacific Northwest? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for answers to all your local real estate questions.

There are so many wonderful places where you can get to know Seattle, from markets and museums to stunning, Instagram-worthy waterfront destinations. But what could be a better way to learn about a city than to explore its culture of cuisine? The famed, internationally-inspired dining scene around Seattle homes for sale offers so many options that it can be hard to know where to start, which is why food tours are such a great way to get to know both the city and its dining destinations. Our real estate agents have the details on some of the best food tours that will take you all around Seattle.

Savor Seattle Food Tours – 1916 Pike Place Market #12-480, Seattle, WA 98101

Based in the historic, world-famous Pike Place Market, Savor Seattle Food Tours is one of Seattle's top-rated food tour companies, with a variety of expertly guided walking tours of the market that you can enjoy anytime and even a special Gourmet Kayak Expedition to beautiful San Juan Island.

• Pike Place Market Signature Tour
  If you're new to Seattle, then you're probably already excited about the prospect of visiting Pike Place Market and experiencing the country's oldest continuous market for yourself. The Pike Place Market Signature Tour will give you an excellent first taste of the sights, sounds, and flavors of the market. This two-hour tour features more than 12 tastings around the market and is also family-friendly.
  
  
• Pike Place Market VIP Early Access Tour
  Even if you're already familiar with Pike Place Market, you may have dreamed of visiting the market with no crowds and feeling like you have the place to yourself. The Pike Place Market VIP Early Access Tour allows you to do just that, getting priority service and tastings at some of the markets best food vendors with a small group size of a dozen or less. Enjoy outstanding breakfast food, experience Pike Place Market before the crowds arrive, and take advantage of special VIP perks like a demonstration of the bean-to-bar process for making chocolate.
  
  
• Gourmet Kayak Expedition to San Juan Island, WA
  Looking for a more outdoorsy food tour? The Gourmet Kayak Expedition will take you on a journey to San Juan Island, which is located between Seattle and Vancouver Island. Spend your days kayaking around the islands, sipping some of the best local wines from the Seattle area, and enjoying delicious dining at every stop. This tour lasts for three days, and space is limited so it's worth reserving your place ahead of time.
  
  
• Private Tours
  Interested in having a private tour with your own group of friends, family, or colleagues? Savor Seattle also offers Private Tours for groups ranging in size from 12 to 60 people to a variety of popular dining locations around the city.

The Emerald Palate Seattle Food Tours – Seattle. WA

Pike Place Market is an excellent place to start your journey, but what about when you want to explore some out-of-the-way, less famous destinations where the food is no less amazing? The Emerald Palate is a Seattle-based food and lifestyle blog that offers a selection of detailed, self-guided tours that will take you all around the city. Find the spots that the locals love, and discover some fantastic neighborhoods that tourists don't even know to visit.

• Ballard Food Tour
  Seattle's artistic Ballard neighborhood offers more than just great culture to explore. It's also home to a vibrant, diverse collection of local restaurants with something to suit every taste. The 40-page, self-guided Ballard Food Tour features more than 20 excellent restaurants, including pictures, suggestions on what to order, and even interviews with restaurant staff. If you want to dine like a local, this tour will help you feel right at home.
  
  
• Fremont Food Tour
  A truly unique neighborhood, Fremont is definitely a place that you'll want to explore as you get to know Seattle. The Freemont Food Tour checks in at 39 pages and also features 20 local restaurants to visit. The Emerald Palate updates all of its self-guided tours every month, so you'll always be able to stay up to date on the best places to dine around Seattle.
  
  
• Food Tour Bundle
  Can't decide which tour to choose? You can always try both, save with a bundle, and discover more than three dozen of Seattle's best-hidden gems. The Food Tour Bundle is perfect for anyone looking to find restaurants they'll enjoy visiting again and again in some of Seattle's best neighborhoods.

When you're ready to buy or sell your next home close to all of the amazing dining experiences around Seattle, our local real estate team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Seattle, WA area.

Portland has a vibrant live theater scene packed with popular plays, musicals, and more that are performed in interesting venues with rich histories. The 2022 calendar is filled with exciting performances, so you're sure to find several that appeal to you.
  
Our brokers are excited for all the performances taking the stage in Portland. Here are a few in 2022 you don't want to miss:

• Anastasia - Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay St. (corner of SW 3rd Ave. and Clay St.), Portland, OR 97201
  Keller Auditorium, which was built in 1917, hosts a wide range of performances, including Broadway productions, ballets, operas, and family events. It's a spacious venue that's known as a workhouse in the arts community because of the large number of events that are held there. From February 8-13, 2022, the venue hosts Anastasia a critically acclaimed Broadway production that's filled with romance and adventure. Set in the twilight of the Russian Empire and the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, a young woman, seeks to solve the mystery of her past. She's pursued by a Soviet officer who wants to silence her and helped by a dashing conman and a loveable former aristocrat. Although it incorporates elements of the classic film, this production of "Anastasia" presents a more historically accurate version with a more nuanced narrative.
  
  
• Freestyle Love Supreme - Portland Center Stage at the Armory, 128 NW Eleventh Ave., Portland, OR 97209
  Experience Freestyle Love Supreme a truly unique show, with Portland Center Stage from April 8-May 1, 2022. Portland's largest theater company, Portland Center Stage, calls The Armory home. This historic building was constructed in 1891 and retains a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Due to the improvisational nature of this hip-hop musical phenomenon, no two shows are ever alike. Direct from Broadway, the experience is from Lin-Manuel Miranda, Thomas Kail, and Anthony Veneziale. Performers take suggestions from members of the audience and use them as inspiration for a freestyle, hip-hop improvisational comedy ride. The show was the subject of the Hulu documentary "We Are Freestyle Love Supreme" and has been praised as one that "puts you in your happy place" by The Washington Post. It has also been Grammy-nominated.
    
• Hamilton - Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay St. (corner of SW 3rd Ave. and Clay St.), Portland, OR 97201  
  Hamilton is perhaps the most buzz-worthy, critically-acclaimed musical in years, and it's coming to Portland's Keller Auditorium from April 13-May 1, 2022. The book, music, and lyrics were written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, and this story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton has impacted culture, politics, and education. Miranda has described it as "America then, as told by America now." It tells Hamilton's story in two acts that also focus on other historical figures who influenced his life. With a score that blends genres including hip-hop, R&B, pop, soul, and traditional Broadway tunes, "Hamilton" has won numerous awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Drama as well as Tony, Grammy, and Olivier Awards.
  
  
• Beethoven & Brahms - Portland'5 Center for the Arts, Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 111 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97205
  From Feb. 19-21, 2022, Grammy Award-nominated German pianist will play with the Oregon Symphony for the first time at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. Lovingly referred to as "The Schnitz," the venue features Italian Rococo Revival architecture that's been beautifully restored. The program features classic giants Beethoven and Brahms, with an early Beethoven concerto and Brahms' Third Symphony, a strong, robust piece. The program features Jennifer Higdon: blue cathedral, Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 2, and Brahms' Symphony No. 3, as well as his Hungarian Dance No. 1. Mario Venzago will conduct the program.
  
  
• Hadestown - Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay St. (corner of SW 3rd Ave. and Clay St.), Portland, OR 97201
  Hadestown a Tony Award-winning musical that intertwines two mythic tales, will be presented on July 19-24, 2022. From the love of Orpheus for the beautiful Eurydice to the story of King Hades and his wife Persephone, the new musical is a timeless love story. It's by celebrated singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and directed by Rachel Chavkin and has received high praise in many prominent media outlets, including The New York Times, which described it as "Sumptuous. Gorgeous. As good as it gets." Variety praised it as "Spellbinding. Hadestown, for a while, makes the whole world forget its troubles."

Contact us to see Portland homes for sale or to sell your home. We've been helping people buy and sell real estate in the Pacific Northwest since 1972 and know it's a great area to call home. 

It's no exaggeration to say that Seattle is the city that turned the food hall into an art form, thanks to the legendary Pike Place Market. But that's not the only amazing food hall around the city! Whether you're a dedicated foodie shopping for the perfect ingredients for your next creation or you're searching for fresh, expertly prepared food inspired by cultures from around the world, the food halls of the Seattle area have you covered. Our brokers have the delicious details on 7 of the best food halls to visit in Seattle and nearby communities.

1. Pike Place Market – 85 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98101
   When you're talking about food halls near Seattle homes for sale, there's only one place to start. Pike Place Market is a world-famous destination for food, shopping, and fun, with a history that stretches back more than 100 years. Pike Place Market brings together local restaurants, food vendors, farmers, craftspeople, specialty food purveyors, and live performers to create one of the best places on the planet to enjoy some shopping. There's also a busy schedule of programs and signature special events, so you'll always have something new to see at Pike Place Market.
   
   
2. Melrose Market – 1531 Melrose Ave., Seattle, WA 98101
   It may not be quite as famous as Pike Place Market, but Melrose Market has earned a loyal following thanks to its fresh ingredients, delicious meals, and great deals. Melrose Market is home to 10 local vendors selling locally sourced ingredients, fresh, delicious prepared meals, unique home goods, and fine spirits. With its emphasis on local vendors, Melrose Market is a great place to find out what's going on in the neighborhood.
   
   
3. Spice Bridge Global Food Hall – 14200 Tukwila International Blvd., Ste. 141, Tukwila, WA 98186
   Interested in exploring cuisine inspired by diverse cultures from around the world? Spice Bridge Global Food Hall is well worth the trip, with a lineup of vendors that emphasizes women of color, immigrant, and refugee chefs. Sample dishes from international cultures, enjoy a packed schedule of special events, and support a great cause in the process. Be sure to check the schedule ahead of time if you're looking for a particular vendor, as the lineup rotates each day with fresh options.
   
   
4. Lincoln South Food Hall – 500 Bellevue Way NE Floor 2, Bellevue, WA 98004
   In the mood for an outstanding meal near Bellevue homes for sale, but not quite sure what you want to eat? Lincoln South Food Hall has you covered with an eclectic collection of dining options and many of the Pacific Northwest's favorite craft beer selections on tap. Stop by for a gourmet meal from Barrio Luchador, Burger Brawler, or What the Pho, then head to the bar to find your perfect pairing.
   
   
5. Matchbox Food Hall – 2329 California Ave. SW, Seattle, WA 98116
   With 5 restaurants serving sandwiches, salads, wraps, and pizza along with one outstanding bar, Matchbox Food Hall is sure to satisfy your craving for a delicious meal close to home. Fresh, healthy food is the name of the game at Matchbox Food Hall, where you will find Forge Pizza, Sway Sandwich Co., Carrera Taqueria, Chop Salads, and Boxcar Bakery. Shep's Tavern is where you'll find an extensive collection of craft cocktails, as well as locally crafted beer and wine.
   
   
6. Uwajimaya Seattle – 600 5th Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98104
   For Asian cuisine, ingredients, and sweet treats, it's hard to top the experience at Uwajimaya Seattle. Part specialty grocery store, part food court, this local chain has 4 locations in Seattle and nearby communities. The flagship Seattle location covers more than 35,000 square feet, with a grocery store and large food hall all in one place. The food hall at Uwajimaya Seattle has 10 unique dining options, with more always being added. Grab a great book from Kinokuniyana Bookstore – also located in-house – then head to the food hall to enjoy some fresh, authentic Asian cuisine while you read.
   
   
7. City Hall Farmers Market – 600 4th Ave., Seattle, WA 98104
   While it may not be housed indoors like the other food halls on our list, the popular City Hall Farmers Market offers many of the same perks as some of the city's most famous food halls in an airy, inviting outdoor setting. The City Hall Farmers Market takes place every Tuesday morning and early afternoon. It brings together local farmers and food vendors to share their wares with the public, with a different selection depending on which time of year that you visit.

Searching for a home that makes it easy to visit your favorite Seattle food halls anytime? Let our team help you find the perfect match. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Seattle, WA area.

Seattle might be famous for its coffee, but don't forget about its tea. No city does warm beverages quite like Seattle, and tea is no exception.

January is National Hot Tea Month, so there couldn't be a better time to visit your favorite local tea shop in Seattle and unwind with your favorite blend. Tea is proven to reduce stress, plus it's loaded with antioxidants making it a perfect wintertime beverage.

Whether you're looking to stock up on your favorite loose leaf tea or simply want to warm up in a cozy teahouse on a rainy day, there are so many great independent tea shops around town. Here are some favorite destinations from our brokers:

• Perennial Tea Room - 1910 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101
  Located in a small alley in Pike Place Market, Perennial Tea Room is Seattle's most popular tea destination. This cute tea shop has all of your favorite fine loose leaf teas from around the world, in addition to a wide assortment of tea-related gifts, accessories, and books. Looking to try something new? The staff is incredibly helpful and can help you find a tea that aligns with your tastes. If you love shopping around Pike Place Market, there are some incredible Seattle homes for sale nearby. The shop is open daily from 9:30 am to 5 pm.
  
  
• Steepologie Teas - 3420 Fremont Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
  Steepologie Teas has 6 locations around Seattle, each offering over a hundred varieties of loose leaf tea as well as tumblers, infusers, mugs, and pots. This store has so many great gifts, so it's easy to find something perfect for the tea lover in your life. Enjoy a fresh cup inside the shop or take it on the go. Steepologie Teas is open daily from 11 am to 7 pm.
  
  
• Taiwan Oolong Shop - 1704 NW Market St, Seattle, WA 98107
  For some authentic oolongs and teas straight from Taiwan, visit Taiwan Oolong Shop. This store stocks dozens of varieties of high-quality products, and the inventory is constantly changing, so you'll want to stop back. All oolongs and teas are unblended, single estate pickings, and with a friendly, helpful staff, it's easy to find something you love. Stop by Wednesday through Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm.
  
  
• Miro Tea - 5405 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107
  At Miro Tea, you'll find 150 exceptional teas from around the world -- each meticulously sourced based on taste, appearance, and quality. The shop's ability to find high-quality products has earned it a reputation for being one of Seattle's top tea destinations. Buy your tea to go or enjoy a cup in the store's onsite cafe, which also serves delicious snacks. The shop is only daily from 8 am to 8 pm.
  
  
• Tea Republik - 4527 University Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105
  You'll find an extensive selection of loose-leaf specialty teas, black teas, green teas, white teas, and more at Tea Republik, a cozy teahouse located in the University District. This is a great place to stop in and enjoy a warm cup of tea on a rainy day. Tea is delicious, and the service is friendly and helpful. Store hours are 10 am to 10 pm daily.
  
  
• Queen Mary Tea - 2912 NE 55th St, Seattle, WA 98105
  Queen Mary Tea is the ultimate Seattle destination for tea lovers, and it's truly a unique experience. The Queen Mary Tea Room is the oldest independently owned tea room in America and has a true Victorian elegance. The attached tea shop features one of the largest selections of loose lea tea in the city, along with wonderful teaware, tableware, treats, and gifts. Stop by Wednesday through Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm.
  
  
• Friday Afternoon Tea - 4228 Stone Way N, Seattle, WA 98103
  This family-owned, geeky-themed tea shop offers all your favorite loose leaf teas, custom blends, and gifts. In addition to some great products, Friday Afternoon Tea serves as a great community gathering spot. The store hosts a CommuniTea book club as well as Custom Blending appointments. The shop is cute, bright, clean, and definitely worth visiting. Store hours are 10 am to 6 pm daily.

Seattle has a strong beverage culture, so it's no surprise the city is home to some of the country's best tea shops. For more recommendations on local businesses, contact us today.

During the holidays last year, shoppers chose to support small businesses more than ever before by skipping online shopping and chain stores to do their holiday shopping locally. So let's do even better this year, and show the Seattle area small businesses some love for the holidays. Our brokers have the details on why and how to support small businesses this holiday season.

Why Small Businesses Deserve Your Support During the Holidays

If you're like most people, then you probably already have some favorite local small businesses where you love shopping. It's nice to go to a place where people know your face, name, and preferences as soon as you walk through the door. Small businesses provide the opportunity for local artists, artisans, farmers, restaurateurs, and business people to share their unique wares with the public.

Small businesses are also integral to local economies in every neighborhood, and Seattle is no exception. Thriving small businesses create jobs, drive local spending, and provide a level of personalized service that you can't find anywhere else. Many small business owners are also very dedicated to raising funds for local charities, supporting community events, and giving back to the communities that help them thrive.

How to Support Small Businesses for the Holidays

There are so many reasons both big and small to support small businesses for the holidays. Your support means so much to these businesses, and doing your holiday shopping locally is also a great way to find one-of-a-kind gifts that you won't find anywhere else. But how do you show your support? Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Show Up and Browse to Find That Special Something
  We all know how easy it is to browse a big, online retailer to find generic gifts, but it's hard to find that spark of inspiration for a truly special gift when you shop online. Whether you already have a gift idea in mind or you want to find a unique gift for someone who's hard to shop for, visiting small businesses to browse and make a purchase is a great way to get inspired for your holiday shopping.
  
  
• Start Your Shopping Early and Be Patient
  Starting your holiday shopping early provides a variety of benefits for small businesses, and can make your life easier too. It provides revenue for small businesses when they need it most, and allows them to prepare your order before the busiest holiday shopping times. So get out there to start shopping before Black Friday, and be patient while small businesses get your order ready in time for the holidays.
  
  
• Support Small Businesses by Showing Your Love Online
  After you're done shopping at your favorite small businesses, why not show them some love online? Leaving positive reviews on Yelp and Google is a great place to start because those reviews really help small businesses gain exposure online. You can also shout out and link to your favorite small businesses on social media, to help all of your connections find the best local places to shop for the holidays.
  
  
• Try Dining Out or Ordering a Meal Kit for a Holiday Meal
  Eliminate the stress of cooking for the holidays and support a small business in the process by visiting a restaurant for a holiday meal. You can dine out at a restaurant that's open for in-person dining, or order a meal kit from a local restaurant that makes it easy to whip up a world-class meal at home with minimal effort.
  
  
• Be a Friendly Customer and a Generous Tipper
  When you visit a small business to do some shopping or eating, make sure to treat the staff well. And if you can afford it, a generous tip can make a big difference.

Are you searching for a home located close to all of your favorite Seattle small businesses? Our local real estate team is here to help you find the perfect match among the many Seattle homes for sale. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Seattle, WA area.

Los Angeles may claim to have started the food truck craze, but Portland has truly embraced the trend. With more than 500 trucks, or "carts," as they're referred to by locals, Portland's food cart scene has drawn raves from Bon Appétit, CNN, and other national sources.

Our brokers spotlight some of their favorites among the exciting food carts found just minutes from Portland homes for sale.

• Yoshi's Sushi - Multnomah Village French Quarter, 3518 SW Multnomah Blvd., Portland, OR 97219
  So you're viewing Portland homes for sale and you get a craving for sushi. What to do? Pick up the phone and call Yoshi's Sushi. Owner/chef Yoshi Ikeda shows that you don't have to go to a glitzy, upscale restaurant to get fresh, high-quality sushi. Customers rave about the nigiri, especially salmon and hotate, or scallop. Yoshi's is open Tuesday through Saturday for phone orders only, with lunch served from noon - 2 p.m. and dinner from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. 
  
  
• Jojo - 3582 SE Powell Blvd., Portland, OR 97202
  Chicken sandwich wars are raging among fast-food outlets everywhere, and many will declare JoJo to be the clear winner. Their fried chicken sandwiches come in four different varieties, and the star is the Fried Chicken Melt. Two slices of toasted shokupan bread hold a patty topped with American and Cheddar cheeses, Crystal hot sauce, house ranch, coleslaw, and chives. Jojo is open daily from 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
  
  
• Viking Soul Food - 4255 SE Belmont St., Portland, OR 97215
  It's called Viking Soul Food, but their Scandinavian-inspired dishes will definitely satisfy your taste buds as well. Owners Megan and Jeremy put their own spin on dishes from Megan's childhood, such as the Norwegian meatball wrap that was sampled by Guy Fieri on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Save room for a lingonberry lefse wrap, stuffed with plump lingonberries and smooth cream cheese. Hours are noon - 8 p.m. daily except Friday and Saturday when closing time is 8:30 p.m. 
  
  
• Tierra del Sol Oaxacan Cuisine - 7238 SE Foster Rd. #1, Portland, OR 97206
  Mexico's famed street food makes it a natural fit for a food truck. Located in the lively Portland Mercado, Tierra del Sol Oaxacan Cuisine offers classic dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The showstopper is the tlayuda, a 14-inch corn tortilla piled with chicharrons, black beans, queso Oaxaca, and veggies. Meat is optional, and the tlayuda comes packaged in a pizza box. Tierra del Sol is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  
  
• MF Tasty - 3927 N. Williams Ave., Portland, OR 97227
  MF Tasty grew out of another food trend, when husband-and-wife Eric and Nicole operated a secret supper club in Phoenix, AZ. After moving to Portland, the couple opened a food cart serving "Southwest inspired, Portland made" dishes. The menu changes each week, but typical offerings include pumpkin-spiced risotto, harissa-BBQ glazed "beetloaf," and their award-winning chorizo mac & cheese. Follow them on Instagram to view the current menu. Hours are 5 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Sunday and Monday.
  
  
• Birrieria La Plaza - 600 SE 146th Ave., Portland, OR 97233
  Hard to improve on perfection, but birria-style takes tacos to another level. Birreria La Plaza cooks the flavorful dipping consome for hours to bring out all the seasonings and spices. Owner Oracio Hernandez's secret weapon is his mother, Doña Sofia, and the recipes she learned growing up on a farm in Jalisco, Mexico. Cheese lovers go for the combo that includes one each of quesotaco, mulita, vampiro, and quesadilla. Hours are 10:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday, and 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Stretch the Noodle - 223-269 SW Washington St., Portland, WA 97204
  A visit to Stretch the Noodle rates high on both food and entertainment factors. On most days, you can watch chef Xuemei Simard practice the esteemed art of noodle-pulling as he folds, twists, and stretches dough into delicate strands. Every dish is made to order, and well worth the wait. Try the biang-biang noodles, a wide noodle with hot oil, black vinegar, and garlic sauce, topped with a sprinkling of sesame seeds. Stretch the Noodle is open weekdays from 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
  
  
• Erica's Soul Food - 803 SE 82nd Ave., Portland, ME 97216
  Authentic down-home Southern cuisine comes to Portland via Erica's Soul Food. Comfort food classics such as meatloaf, pimento cheese fries, and shrimp & grits will make you forget you're on the West Coast. Check out the Soul Bowls, mash-ups of Southern favorites like the Grandma, with meatloaf, cornbread, black-eyed peas, and cabbage. Erica's is open Wednesday through Sunday, with lunch served from noon - 2 p.m. and dinner from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Find out why everything's coming up roses in Portland. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to learn more.

Spanning 2,650 miles from the Mexican border in the south to the Canadian border in the north, the Pacific Crest Trail is to the West Coast what the Appalachian Trail is to the East Coast. Our brokers take a look at this iconic hiking destination that's within convenient distance of Bend homes for sale.

History of the Pacific Crest Trail

The first seeds of the Pacific Crest Trail were planted right here in Oregon. Fred Cleator, a supervisor in the U.S. Forest Service, first mapped the state's Skyline Trail in 1920 and started plans for a similar route in Washington.

At the time, the Boy Scouts, Sierra Club, and other organizations were floating various ideas for hiking trails. In 1926, Catherine Montgomery, a teacher in Bellingham, WA, became the first to propose a contiguous hiking trail through the three West Coast states. 

Mountain League of Los Angeles chairman Clinton C. Clarke was inspired to unite these groups into one cohesive effort when he organized the Pacific Crest Trail System Conference in 1932. The conference, which counted legendary nature photographer Ansel Adams among its committee members, led to Clarke becoming known as the father of the Pacific Crest Trail.

Finally, during President Lyndon B. Johnson's administration, Congress passed the National Trails System Act on October 2, 1968. In addition to setting forth the administrative framework for a nationwide system of trails, this officially named the Pacific Crest Trail and the Appalachian Trail as the country's first scenic trails. 

Fun Facts About the Pacific Crest Trail

• At loose ends after the death of her mother, writer Cheryl Strayed began a journey on the Pacific Crest Trail despite no previous hiking experience. Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail details the highs and lows of her 1,100-mile journey. The memoir, along with the movie adapted from the book and starring Reese Witherspoon, created a spike of interest in the Pacific Crest Trail.
  
  
• Anyone hiking or horseback riding 500 miles or more in a continuous trip must obtain a permit. While there is no charge for a permit, they are issued on a first-come-first-served basis and limited by quota. Day and overnight use permits are also required in 33 places along the Pacific Crest Trail, including Crater Lake National Park, Mount Jefferson Wilderness, and Three Sisters Wilderness in Oregon.
  
  
• How long does it take to traverse the entire length of the Pacific Crest Trail? While some elite athletes have accomplished it in as little as two months, the average time is approximately five months. Expenses run anywhere from $4,000-$8,000, depending on how frugal or extravagant a hiker chooses to be.
  
  
• While no formal statistics are currently kept, the self-reported "2,600 Miler List" includes 7,936 people, 100 of whom have completed the trail more than once. The annual number peaked in 2018 when 1,185 completions were reported. Total number of permits issued for all usage has grown from 1,879 in 2013 to 7,888 in 2019.

Pacific Crest Trail Hikes Near Bend

• Experienced hikers who are up for a challenge are rewarded with spectacular views after reaching the summit of Diamond Peak, one of Oregon's Matterhorns. The 13.8-mile dog-friendly trail is described as a "scramble," which is the term for a route that's more difficult than regular hiking but not quite to the level of rock-climbing. Unlike most mountains that are relatively symmetrical, Diamond Peak has a jagged profile that's been compared to the back of a stegosaurus. 
  
  
• Twin Peaks, more familiarly known as the Twins, is a volcano that gained its name from the dual summits formed by a gap in the crater rim. This 6.7-mile dog-friendly route crosses the Pacific Crest Trail on its way to views of both Twins along with Mount Jefferson, Mount McLaughlin, and other parts of the Cascades. The real showstopper is Waldo Lake, a popular Oregon attraction that's the second-largest natural freshwater lake in the state behind Crater Lake.
  
  
• North, Middle, and South make up the Three Sisters that are the centerpiece of the eponymous Wilderness Area. Skirt the permit requirement by hiking the Scott Trail, a dog-friendly route marked by alpine meadows full of wildflowers. Along with the Three Sisters, the summit features views of Collier Glacier, the largest glacier in Oregon, situated between North and Middle Sisters.

The best part of any journey is returning to your dream home in Bend. Whether you're buying or selling a house, contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for cheerful and professional help with Bend real estate.

Pike Place Market is such a cherished part of Seattle that offers fantastic food options in every season. Our brokers are especially fond of the fall treats that can be found at the market. Plan your next trip to Pike Place Market and be on the lookout for these fall finds.

• Ellenos Yogurt - 1500 Pike Pl., Seattle, WA 98101 
  Ellenos Yogurt is a classic Greek food that ended up in the Pacific Northwest by way of the Land Down Under. Yvonne, a flight attendant who fell in love with the yogurt on the job, convinced father and son Con and Alex to leave their home in Australia and bring their incredible yogurt to Seattle. Fall marks the return of their popular pumpkin pie yogurt, loaded with pieces of real pie. Hours are 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors close at 5 p.m.  
  
  
• Cobb's Gourmet Popcorn - 1500 Western Ave., Seattle, WA 98101
  As fall brings shorter days and the inevitable Seattle rain, it's a great time to hunker down with Netflix or Amazon Prime. And what's a TV and movie night without popcorn? Cobb's Gourmet Popcorn makes their popcorn from scratch with butter, sweet cream, real vanilla, and other fresh, high-quality ingredients. Go classic with Brown Butter and Sea Salt, or try Vanilla Salted Caramel for some sweetness. Be sure to look for the seasonal varieties that "pop" up from time to time. Cobb's is open noon - 6 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
  
  
• Made in Washington - 1530 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101
  It's never too early to start holiday shopping. Give the gift of the Pacific Northwest with the unique items at Made in Washington. Build your own gift basket featuring iconic Northwest brands such as SeaBear Smoked Salmon, Fran's Chocolates, and Fisher Fair Scone Mix. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Simply Seattle - 1600 1st Ave., Seattle, WA 98101
  Even non-sports fans are buzzing about professional hockey's return to Seattle this fall, after an absence of nearly a century. Show your team spirit with a jersey, cap, or other official Kraken gear from Simply Seattle. The shop features a full selection of items representing all the city's pro and collegiate teams, including the gone-but-not-forgotten Seattle Supersonics. Have a TV buff on your gift list? They'd love a Grey's Anatomy hoodie, coffee mug, or keychain. Simply Seattle is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• MarketSpice - 85A Pike Place, Seattle, WA 98101
  Spend a cozy fall afternoon curled up with a warm throw, a good book, and a comforting cup of MarketSpice tea. Not surprisingly, Washington apples play a starring role in MarketSpice's fall flavors, including Apple & Cinnamon and Caramel Apple. Brighten your home with candles in the shop's signature cinnamon-orange scent and other delightful aromas. Treat the kids with a hot chocolate mix in gourmet flavors such as mint, raspberry, and vanilla. Hours are 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., seven days a week.
  
  
• Honest Biscuits - 1901 Western Ave., Seattle, WA 98101 
  Enjoy a hearty Southern classic made with a Pacific Northwest spin at Honest Biscuits. Founder Art Stone drew on his experience baking biscuits with his grandmother in North Carolina, tweaking the recipe to reflect his own life experiences. Their classic Butterhole Biscuit, made with high-quality local ingredients, is also available in a gluten-free version. Go for the gusto with their signature biscuit, the MacGregor, studded with Bavarian Meats bacon, Beecher's Flagship cheese, and caramelized onions. Honest Biscuits is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. and weekends from 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
  
  
• Pike Place Chowder - 1530 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101
  When a clam chowder wins competitions on both coasts, you know it has to be good. Pike Place Chowder has earned cook-off championships in Newport, RI, Westport, CT, and Monterey, CA. In 2018, after conducting a nationwide study, Yelp proclaimed the restaurant's New England clam chowder to be the most popular dish in America. Their prize-winning chowder and six other varieties are available for carryout, along with their authentic lobster, shrimp, and Dungeness crab rolls. Hours are 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily.

Pike Place Market is just minutes from many incredible Seattle homes for sale. Want to learn more? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain.

As home to nearly 70 breweries, more than any other city in the world, Portland has been a vibrant part of the craft beer movement since the early 1980s. What better place to be during Oktoberfest? Our brokers raise a toast to these microbreweries throughout the Portland area. 

• Upright Brewing - 240 N. Broadway, Portland, OR 97227
  What does brewing beer have in common with composing music? According to Upright Brewing, both activities are methods of "exercising creativity and craft" in ways that defy categorization. In keeping with the musical theme, Upright Brewing designs each beer label to look like an album cover. Pair your beer with a sandwich or snack from adjoining PBS Café. Tasting room hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Ruse Brewing - 4784 SE 17th Ave., Portland, OR 97202
  The spirit of Portland runs through the DNA of Ruse Brewing. Inspired by the city's culture of creativity, founders Shaun and Devin made community support the primary element of the company's vision. Ruse Brewing teams up with local artists and musicians to create specialty brews for beer releases and other events. The cozy taproom, filled with natural light and wood accents, gives off a major Pacific Northwest vibe. Hours are 3 p.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 3 p.m. - 10 p.m. Friday, 1 p.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Back Pedal Brewing - 1425 NW Flanders, Portland, OR 97209
  Back Pedal Brewing is using its space to host a pop-up from Road Beers PDX. Enjoy a beer in the taproom or place an order to go for brands from one of Road Beers' many partner breweries. The taproom is open Wednesday and Thursday from 2 p.m. - 8 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from noon - 8 p.m.
  
  
• Threshold Brewing & Blending - 403 SE 79th Ave., Portland, OR 97215
  Jarek and Sara Symanski, owners of Threshold Brewing & Blending, aren't content to simply brew a great beer. They love to experiment with unexpected flavor profiles. Check out the tart funk of farmhouse-style beers or the assertiveness of bourbon-forward dark beers. Be sure to go hungry and try the zapiekanka. Jared brought the unique open-faced mushroom and cheese baguette sandwich from his native Poland. Stop in with the whole family, including four-legged members, after viewing Portland homes for sale. Hours are 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Friday, 3 p.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 6 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Culmination Brewing - 2117 NE Oregon St., Portland, OR 97232
  Culmination Brewing bridges beer's past and present with classic flavors that are updated to appeal to modern tastes. They generously promote the local beer industry by collaborating with other breweries to create some of their flavors. Miami Nice provides a food menu of vegan Cuban cuisine, such as empanadas, croquetas, and yuca fries, that's so tasty. The taproom is open 3 p.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Zoiglhaus - 5716 SE 92nd Ave., Portland, OR 97266
  The amusing and memorable name of Zoiglhaus is actually deeply rooted in German brewing tradition. Zoigl brewing dates back to the Middle Ages when towns had a communal brewhouse where people would take turns making and serving their personal beers. Fast-forward to Portland today, where Zoiglhaus aims to foster that same sense of community. Food such as Bavarian pretzels and jägerschnitzel reflects the same German influence. Hours are 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. daily. 
  
  
• Breakside Brewery - 820 NE Dekum St, Portland, OR 97211
  Since opening in 2010, award-winning Breakside Brewery has grown from a modest pub to a large regional operation with five metro-area locations, as well as a sixth coming soon in Beaverton. Breakside has gained a devoted following thanks to creative flavors such as their version of the classic Black & Tan, with notes of whiskey, milk chocolate, and caramel. Two years ago, Breakside proudly became one of only a few employee-owned breweries across the country. Breakside is open seven days a week from noon - 9 p.m.

There's something new to discover every day around Portland. If you're buying or selling a home, contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain to learn more. 

August 9th is National Book Lovers Day, and our brokers honestly can't think of a better place than Seattle to celebrate this particular holiday. We happen to have some of the greatest independent bookstores in the country, and we're excited to share some of our favorites in honor of National Book Lovers Day!

1. Ophelia's Books - 3504 Fremont Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
   A strong case could be made that Ophelia's Books is Seattle's most fun bookstore for those who like to browse. Packed to the gills with secondhand books spanning genres and decades, Ophelia's spans three levels, with enchanting spiral staircases that lead you up to each new floor of literary wonders. Located conveniently to countless Seattle homes for sale, the shop also has cozy couches where you can sit and read, and there's a good chance you'll be visited by one of the live-in cats. 
   
   
2. Phinney Books - 7405 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
   Phinney Books opened its doors in 2014 and quickly established a reputation for offering a well-chosen selection featuring all the latest and greatest from the literary world. The shop's owner and noted bibliophile Tom Nissley, an eight-time Jeopardy! champion who knows a thing or two about books. The staff is always friendly and happy to help you find your next great read.
   
   
3. Twice Sold Tales - 1833 Harvard Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
   Nestled in Seattle's endlessly enjoyable Ballard Neighborhood, Twice Sold Tales is the sort of bookstore that warrants repeated visits. That's because, as its punny name suggests, Twice Sold Tales is a used bookstore, and its shelves are always being replenished with new and fascinating volumes. Be careful when you open and close the door not to let the shop's resident cats out!
   
   
4. Couth Buzzard Books - 8310 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
   A bookstore that's also a coffee shop—what could be more Seattle? Couth Buzzard Books is one of the city's favorite bookstores not just because it has a great selection of books (and great espresso) but because it's a warm, welcoming space that makes you feel like you're right at home. Their shelves are packed with literary treasures, and the staff is always friendly and knowledgeable. Couth Buzzard's cafe sells coffee and light bites and often hosts live music.
   
   
5. Elliott Bay Book Company - 1521 10th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
   A mainstay of Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood, Elliott Bay Book Company is more than a bookstore. It's a hub for the local literary community, with a vast selection of reading materials in every genre and discipline. They frequently host compelling live author readings, and the adjoining Little Oddfellows Cafe is a beloved local hangout for bookish types.
   
   
6. Secret Garden Bookshop - 2214 NW Market St, Seattle, WA 98107
   Another Ballard neighborhood staple, Secret Garden Bookshop, sells all kinds of books, but children's books are their real specialty. This is a fantastic place to find books for kids and young adults, and there's a good chance all your own childhood favorites are here (including the 1911 novel from which the shop takes its name). Best of all, Secret Garden's location on Market Street puts it within walking distance of some of the city's best shops, galleries, and cafes. 
   
   
7. Madison Books - 4118 E Madison St, Seattle, WA 98112
   Opened in 2019, Madison Books is one of Seattle's newest bookstores, but it's quickly become a trusted source of new reading material in the Madison Park neighborhood. Situated on a picturesque tree-lined street, Madison Books carries a superb selection of new titles, with lots of cozy nooks where you can settle in and flip through the pages. We also love the irony that this bookstore was opened by two former Amazon employees!
   
   
8. Magus Books - 1408 NE 42nd St, Seattle, WA 98105
   A fixture of the University District for some 40-odd years, Magus Books has been buying and selling used books since 1978. Their space looks like one would expect from a used bookstore near a college campus: floor-to-ceiling shelves overflowing with books, stacks of stray volumes threatening to topple over. It's a treasure trove of the old, rare and unusual. Magus Books is a great place to find early editions and collectible books.

Contact us today to learn more about the great independent businesses that thrive in Seattle, and be sure to ask how our brokers can help you find your Washington dream home. 

With a city surrounded by water and mountains, is it any wonder that outdoor dining is so popular in Seattle? Pack a basket or grab some carryout and visit one of these amazing picnic spots around Seattle recommended by our brokers. 

• Waterfall Garden Park - 219 2nd Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98104
  An urban picnic area may sound like an oxymoron, but Seattle is full of such unconventional delights. Waterfall Garden Park is tucked into an unobtrusive 60-by-80-feet spot in historic Pioneer Square. Until 1975, the site held the headquarters of United Parcel Service. Today, the charming park includes a 22-foot man-made waterfall and a dual-level patio with tables and chairs, making it a wonderful place for a lunch hour picnic or reading break. Park hours are 8 a.m. - 3:45 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Green Lake Park - 7201 E. Green Lake Dr., Seattle, WA 98115
  The area around Green Lake Park features some of the most desirable Seattle homes for sale, and it's not hard to see why. Who wouldn't want to live just down the street from a beautiful three-acre lake surrounded by lush green space? The neighborhood is full of great restaurants, delis, and sandwich shops where you can pick up a picnic-friendly meal. Work up an appetite or work off some calories with swimming at the lifeguard-patrolled beach or a walk along the 2.8-mile path that circles the lake. Bring along a guidebook to identify the numerous birds and waterfowl you're sure to see. Green Lake Park is open 24/7.
  
  
• Dr. Jose Rizal Park - 1007 12th Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98144
  Seattle has one of the most iconic skylines in the country. Take in some incredible views of downtown and Puget Sound during your picnic at Dr. Jose Rizal Park on Beacon Hill. With nearly 10 acres of grounds, including reservable picnic areas, the park can accommodate groups of any size. Be sure to bring Fido along and spend some quality time at the off-leash dog area. Park hours are 4 a.m. - 11:30 p.m., seven days a week.
  
  
• Gas Works Park - 2101 N. Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103
  When someone in Seattle says, "Go fly a kite," people immediately head to Gas Works Park. The 19.1-acre site, once the home of the Seattle Gas Light Company plant, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Kite-flying on the park's spacious hills is a local ritual, while remnants of the original facility are incorporated into a play barn that's a favorite of families. Watch seaplanes land and take off from Lake Union against the backdrop of the downtown skyline. Gas Works Park is open daily from 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.
  
  
• Washington Park Arboretum - 2300 Arboretum Dr. E., Seattle, WA 98112
  Nature is on display in all its glory at Washington Park Arboretum, a 230-acre extravaganza of gardens, wetlands, and wooded areas. The grounds contain 5,500 different plants from all corners of the world, including one of the top Japanese maple tree collections. Choose your favorite points of interest and create your own walking tour along the numerous trails. Print one of the seasonal scavenger hunts from the website and see how many items kids can find. Leashed dogs are welcome at the arboretum. Hours are dawn - 8 p.m. daily, and admission is free.
  
  
• Carkeek Park - 950 NW Carkeek Park Rd., Seattle, WA 98177
  Washington state is known for apples because of spots like historic Piper's Orchard in Carkeek Park. Six miles of trails lead to the orchard, as well as spectacular views of Whidbey Island and the Olympic Mountains. The salmon-themed playground plays tribute to another notable product of the state. Check out the tide pool beach at low tide, when you can walk hundreds of feet out into Puget Sound. Park hours are 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Woodland Park Rose Garden - 750 N. 50th St., Seattle, WA 98103
  With 2.5 acres filled with nearly 3,000 roses, Woodland Park Rose Garden is perfect for a romantic picnic for two or a delightful family outing. The garden is one of only two dozen American Rose Test Gardens in the country, displaying new hybrids before they're available to the public. Fun fact: since the garden went pesticide-free in 2006, the flowers have been used to feed animals in adjoining Woodland Park Zoo. Hours are 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily, and admission is free.

Picnics don't get more exclusive than the ones you hold in the backyard of your Seattle home. Have questions about buying or selling real estate? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for cheerful and experienced help.

Think you have what it takes to be a trivia champ in the Portland area? Grab your family and friends and join our brokers in showing off your knowledge at these great trivia nights near Portland homes for sale. 

• Schmizza Pub & Grub - 320 NW 21st Ave., Portland, OR 97209
  Could there be a better name for trivia hosts than Geeks Who Drink? With a slogan of, "Useless knowledge means everything," this national company brings their British pub-style trivia show to Schmizza Pub & Grub each Thursday night at 7:30 p.m. Teams compete in seven rounds of eight questions each, with cash and other prizes for the winner. Be on your toes for bonus questions when you can score extra treats. Keep your brain cells fueled with one of Schmizza's two-dozen specialty pizzas, such as Alligator Pie, topped with alligator sausage, red peppers, onions, tomatoes, and feta. Regular hours are 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors close at 8 p.m.
  
  
• Chill N Fill - 5215 N. Lombard St., Portland, OR 97203
  Looking for a place to unwind after a long day of work? With its casual decor and relaxing ambiance, Chill N Fill has created a classic neighborhood gathering spot. You're sure to find a favorite beverage from more than 30 rotating taps of craft beer, wine, cider, and kombucha. If that's not enough, Chill N Fill also carries a wide selection of local bottled beer, wine, and cider. Stop in Tuesday nights at 7 p.m. for team trivia hosted by Rain Brain, an award-winning local quizmaster. Get a head start and test yourself with sample questions on Rain Brain's website. Don't forget to fill your growler before you head home! Regular hours are noon - 11 p.m., seven days a week. 
  
  
• Rose City Book Pub - 1329 NE Fremont St., Portland, OR 97212
  Whether you want to socialize or just curl up with a good book, Rose City Book Pub has you covered. This cozy shop combines the best qualities of a bookstore with a European-style bistro, serving appetizers and light meals along with beer and wine. In addition to interactive Zoom trivia on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m., Rose City Book Pub hosts author readings, live music, and various cultural events. Regular hours are noon - 10 p.m. daily.
  
  
• The Old Barn - 9656 SW Barbur Blvd., Portland, OR 97219
  You won't find any live animals or haystacks, but The Old Barn is definitely a comfy place to kick back with friends. Watch the game on one of 20 TVs or try your hand at video poker. Seafood lovers flock to The Old Barn on the second Friday of each month for Dungeness Crab Day, with a menu showcasing the iconic Pacific Northwest shellfish. Wednesday night trivia at 6:30 p.m. is hosted by Last Call. Sign up for their newsletter to get a list of answers to random questions that may or may not turn up at The Old Barn. Regular hours are 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 a.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 2:30 a.m. weekends.
  
  
• Jolly Roger - 5627 SW Kelly St., Portland, OR 97239
  Nestled in the venerable John's Landing neighborhood, Jolly Roger was originally Stanich's West until Rob and Starr Jackson purchased and remodeled the restaurant in 2008, reopening under its current name. According to their slogan, "No one has more fun than we do," and that's especially true during Wednesday night trivia at 8 p.m. Local quizmaster Bridgetown Trivia is the host, and with teams of as many as 35 players allowed, the proceeding can get rambunctious. Bridgetown uses a variety of question styles, including puzzles, pictures, music, and fill-in-the-blank. Regular hours are 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily except Sunday when closing time is 10 p.m.
  
  
• Cascadia Tap House - 13619 NW Cornell Rd., Portland, OR 97229
  Stumptown Trivia, the newest player on the Portland quizmaster scene, has gained fans with their lively trivia nights. You'll find them at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of every month at Cascadia Tap House. Raffle prizes give you additional chances to win. Sip on one of the many local and regional craft beers, wines, and ciders available at Cascadia as you nibble on chips and salsa, artisan pretzels, and other favorite bar snacks. You're also welcome to bring in food from one of the restaurants around the mall. Regular hours are 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday.

Buying or selling a home in Portland is no trivial pursuit. When you need the right answers, contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain.

Portland regularly ranks among the most beautiful cities in the United States, in large part thanks to its incredible natural scenery. What better place to celebrate Nature Photography Day on Tuesday, June 15? Our real estate agents will be taking their cameras to these stunning parks that are just minutes from Portland homes for sale.

• Leach Botanical Garden - 6704 SE 122nd Ave., Portland, OR 97236
  Called Portland's "little jewel," Leach Botanical Garden is named after the couple who bequeathed their property to the city. Lilla Leach, an award-winning botanist, wanted their beloved home to live on as a garden and museum. The 16-acre grounds, once known as "Sleepy Hollow," are full of stunning flowers, trees, and plants that make for amazing photo opportunities. Admission is free, although donations are welcome, but tickets must be reserved in advance. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
  
  
• Peninsula Park - 700 N. Rosa Parks Way, Portland, OR 97217
  Peninsula Park has a colorful past as the site of a roadhouse and horse-racing track. After the grounds were purchased by the city in 1909, architects designed the park in conjunction with Portland's "City Beautiful" movement. Many of the original features, including the century-old fountain that forms the pet-friendly park's centerpiece, remain. Peninsula Park is open daily from 5 a.m. - midnight.
  
  
• Mt. Tabor Park - SE 60th Ave. & Salmon St., Portland, OR 97215
  When it comes to urban landscapes, volcanoes don't often come to mind. Portland is one of a handful of cities that include an extinct volcano within their limits, and this cinder cone is the basis for Mt. Tabor Park. A number of paved and unpaved trails wind through forests and meadows and, alongside former reservoirs, turned reflecting pools. Make it to the top, and you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding lands. There's also an off-leash area where Fido can get some exercise. Park hours are 5 a.m. - midnight, seven days a week.
  
  
• Waterfront Park - 98 SW Naito Pkwy., Portland, OR 97204
  If you're looking for photogenic scenes of nature, how could you go wrong with a place called Waterfront Park? At one time, developments such as Harbor Drive cut city residents off from the Willamette River. In the late 60s, Governor Tom McCall spearheaded the creation of Waterfront Park, which now officially bears his name. While they don't technically count as nature, the bridges along the waterfront are a popular draw for visitors. Waterfront Park is open daily from 5 a.m. - midnight.
  
  
• Lan Su Chinese Garden - 239 NW Everett St., Portland, OR 97209
  Mother Nature makes her presence known throughout the world. Enjoy a unique international perspective at Lan Su Chinese Garden, a collaborative effort between Portland and Suzhou, its sister city in China. In addition to combining elements from the names of both cities, Lan Su translates to "Garden of Awakening Orchids." Heavily influenced by Chinese traditions dating back two centuries, the garden is a harmonious blend of art, architecture, and nature. Kids will have fun with interactive scavenger hunts, photo challenges, and quizzes. Enhance your visit with the mobile app that provides facts about Lan Su's history and culture. Admission is $12.95 for adults and $9.95 for kids between 6-18. Lan Su is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. every day but Wednesday.
  
  
• Washington Park - 400 SW Kingston Ave., Portland, OR 97210
  Can't get enough of Portland's iconic roses? Head to Washington Park, home of the city's International Rose Test Garden. The breathtaking display comprises more than 10,000 rose bushes, representing more than 610 different varieties. In 2006, the IRTG received the prestigious Garden of Excellence Award from the World Federation of Rose Societies. Don't miss the Frank Beach Memorial Fountain, honoring the man credited with coining the nickname "City of Roses." Hours are 7:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily, with free public tours conducted at 1 p.m. each day between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
  
  
• Pittock Mansion - 3229 NW Pittock Dr., Portland, OR 97210
  Built in 1914 as the home of Portland's first "power couple," Pittock Mansion is a fascinating look at the city's transformation over the years, but the 46 acres of grounds around the estate are worth the trip by themselves. Hikers flock to the trails and their remarkable vistas of the Portland skyline from high up in the West Hills. The Pittock Mansion grounds are maintained as a public park open until 9 p.m. daily.

Portland is the quintessential Pacific Northwest city with a blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for experienced help with all your local real estate needs.

Mark your calendars. Mother's Day is Sunday, May 9th! After a challenging 2020, one of the things our brokers are most excited about is the re-opening of some of our favorite Seattle restaurants this spring. If you're looking for a great place to take your mom for brunch on Mother's Day, we definitely recommend these great Seattle eateries:

• Portage Bay Cafe - 391 Terry Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
  One of Seattle's most beloved brunch spots, Portage Bay Cafe, is known for their fresh sandwiches and bowls, as well as a breakfast bar stocked with organic, local, and sustainable sources ingredients. They make some killer omelets and French toast, too, making it a prime Mother's Day spot. We love the South Lake Union location, which is a short walk from downtown, but Portage Bay Cafe also has several additional locations throughout the city, all convenient to many Seattle homes for sale. 
  
  
• Fat's Chicken and Waffles - 2726 E Cherry St, Seattle, WA 98122
  One of Seattle's best destinations for hearty Southern-inspired comfort food, Fat's Chicken and Waffles is a cozy, stylish little cafe with an atmosphere that—much like its menu—feels like a quirky take on what you'd see at an old-fashioned Southern joint. Their brunch menu is packed with tasty favorites like shrimp and grits with eggs and biscuits with andouille sausage gravy. And it almost goes without saying that their fried chicken and waffles are amazing. 
  
  
• Tilikum Place Cafe - 407 Cedar St, Seattle, WA 98121
  Tilikum Place Cafe is a European-style bistro nestled in the historic heart of Belltown. It's a treasured neighborhood eatery with an eclectic menu of seasonal favorites. Their offerings are ever-changing depending on what's in season, but you can always count on anything your order being handcrafted from the freshest local ingredients. Cafe Tilikum is a cozy space with just a few tables, so reservations are always a good idea, especially on popular brunch days like Mother's Day. 
  
  
• Café Pettirosso - 1101 E Pike St, Seattle, WA 98122
  Originally founded as a coffee cart in the '90s, Café Pettirosso moved quickly into a brick-and-mortar location, and after a few changes over the years, has become one of the best brunch spots in Seattle's Capitol Hill area. They offer a little bit of everything, from a pastry and espresso bar to fresh-squeezed juices and craft cocktails. The brunch menu at Café Pettirosso is full of great options like seasonal omelets and duck confit hash. 
  
  
• El Parche Columbiano - 11740 15th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98125
  With a vibrant atmosphere and colorful Columbian cuisine, El Parche Columbiano is arguably the best place in Seattle to find authentic South American fare. They serve every meal of the day in their fun, funky space, but the breakfast and brunch staples are some of our favorites. Traditional Columbian breakfast dishes like Calenta'o (rice and beans served with arepas and eggs any style) are fresh and delicious. El Parche Columbiano also makes some of the best empanadas you're ever likely to taste.
  
  
• OLMSTE(A)D - 314 Broadway E, Seattle, WA 98102
  A hip hangout in Capitol Hill known for their daily brunch and craft cocktail menu, OLMSTE(A)D is a fun neighborhood hangout spot. The food here tends to get classified as new American cuisine, but OLMSTE(A)D draws inspiration from all over the globe, with fresh and flavorful brunch dishes like rich, spicy shakshuka and thick-sliced brioche French toast. Brunch is served every day until 2:45 PM.
  
  
• Le Pichet - 1933 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
  Nestled amid the hustle and bustle of Seattle's famed Pike Place Market, Le Pichet is a welcoming little French-style bistro and bar. It's a quaint, cozy place to enjoy morning coffee or a glass of wine in the evening in their open sidewalk dining area. Their menu abounds with French breakfast and lunch specialties, from expertly prepared egg dishes to sandwiches on fresh-baked baguettes. Le Pichet also offers splendid charcuteries and cheese boards, and their house-made ice cream is to die for. 

Contact us today to learn more about living life to the fullest in the Seattle area, and be sure to ask our team how we can help you find your dream home here. Seattle is a truly unique and special place to call home, with great dining options for Mother's Day or just any old day!

If you're looking at Seattle homes for sale, prepare for delicious cuisine.

Seattle has a rich and diverse culinary heritage our brokers know as one of the things that make the Emerald City unique. Seattle flavors have been shaped by remarkable Pacific seafood as well as the many immigrants from all over the world who have helped to make Seattle what it is today.

Over time, Seattle has become famous for dishes originating across the globe, from its unique take on Chinese dumplings to its unbeatable burgers, hot dogs, and much more.

Let's drop in on some of the restaurants that offer true Seattle classics:

1. The Walrus and The Carpenter – 4743 Ballard Avenue, Seattle, WA 98107
   The Walrus and The Carpenter isn't just one of the most surreal scenes from Alice in Wonderland – it's also the #1 place for oysters, a long-time Seattle favorite. Now with outdoor seating and convenient online reservations, The Walrus and The Carpenter serves up sophisticated seafood and wine pairings that epitomize the Pacific Northwest. Other delights on the menu include scallop crudo, smoked coho, grilled sardines, and steak tartar.
   
   
2. The Pho Bac – 1240 South Jackson Street, Seattle, WA 98144
   With no less than four locations throughout the Seattle area, The Pho Bac is a leading purveyor of short rib pho. Pronounced fuh, this Vietnamese dish is a soup containing broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat. While chicken is the mainstay approach to pho, The Pho Bac expands the palate with a curated shortlist of new takes. Now in its second generation, it is one of Seattle's best-known family-owned businesses.
   
   
3. Dahlia Bakery – 2001 4th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121
   Famous for its delicious triple coconut cream pie, a Seattle staple, Dahlia Bakery also stocks delectable artisan breads, handmade pastries, and desserts. You'll want to come back frequently since everything here is small batch and the menu changes regularly. There are also classic breakfast sandwiches, including the bacon and egg and veggie varieties and lunch specials.
   
   
4. Dick's Deluxe – 12325 30th Avenue Northeast, Seattle, WA 98125
   No list of Seattle favorites could be complete without mentioning Dick's Deluxe, which since 1954 has been the city's go-to hamburger joint. Known far and wide for its fresh burgers, real potatoes, and hand-dipped shakes, Dick's has various drive-in and food truck locations. There are also ice cream sundaes, cones, and root beer floats that are perfect for the kids. No matter where you are in Seattle, a location isn't far away.
   
   
5. Sushi Kashiba – 86 Pine Street, Suite 1, Seattle WA 98101
   "Omakase" loosely means "chef's choice," and Sushi Kashiba owner Shiro Kashiba has been called Seattle's "sushi grandmaster." There may be no better place in Seattle to enjoy the classic omakase sushi bento box, which includes an eclectic mix of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese lunch foods arranged by Chef Kashiba. With ample cuts of fish in brilliant colors, it plates as good as it tastes.
   
   
6. Mee Sum Pastry – 4343 University Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98105
   For maximum flavor, Seattle's famous curry beef hom bow, known elsewhere as bao, must be made fresh each morning. When you visit Mee Sum Pastry, you might even have the chance to watch. In the bustling University of Washington area, this is one of the foremost places for Taiwanese cuisine with a Seattle spin. You can also savor a full assortment of other beef, chicken, pork, seafood, and vegetarian-friendly entrees.
   
   
7. Rain City Hot Dogs – 2700 Rainier Avenue South, Seattle, WA 98144
   The classic take on a Seattle Dog includes cream cheese and sauteed onions – and that's the marquee meal here at Rain City Hot Dogs. One of the highest-rated hot dog experiences in town, it also offers full-service catering. Every dog on the menu can be customized with your choice of a quarter-pound all-beef hot dog, a spicy Louisiana-style hotlink, or a veggie dog. Don't miss out on the Smoky PB&J!
   
   
8. Chinook's at Salmon Bay –1900 West Nickerson Street, Seattle, WA 98119
   Copper river salmon flown in from Alaska have become a hallmark of some of the best Pacific Northwest dishes, and Chinook's at Salmon Bay is widely hailed as one of the best places in Seattle to enjoy the iconic fish. From its Fishermen's Terminal location, fish scarcely gets any fresher than this. Enjoy an afternoon or evening right on the waterfront patio and have lunch, dinner, or selections from the seasonal Oyster Festival menu.

Coldwell Banker Bain is here to help with your Seattle real estate needs. Contact us to learn more today.

National parks are a true American treasure, handed down from one generation to the next.

The Pacific Northwest has so many wonderful national parks to visit, or better yet, live near. 

Stunning Crater Lake National Park is less than half a day's drive from Portland homes for sale. Or explore 73 miles of Pacific Coast at Olympic National Park, roughly a two-hour drive from Seattle homes for sale. 

Our brokers share nine top benefits of living near a national park. Do some of these surprise you? 

1. More Opportunities for Quality Family Time
   In today's families, both kids and parents are likely to have fast-paced schedules that have them moving in different directions. Even gathering around the dinner table can be hard. National parks offer accessible hours along with a wide variety of activities and attractions to suit everyone. Simply packing a picnic lunch to enjoy after a pleasant hike is a relaxing getaway. Admission fees are nominal, with several free days during the year, to fit any budget. And most parks are pet-friendly so that Fido can tag along!
   
   
2. Low-Cost Outdoor "Health Club"
   Do you pay ever-increasing membership dues to a conventional health club to fight for a parking spot and wait in line for a treadmill or elliptical machine? National parks are incredible open-air "fitness centers" that aren't confined by four walls and a roof. Available activities range from hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing in the summer to cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowboarding in the winter.
   
   
3. Good for Mental and Emotional Health
   Physical fitness is only part of the equation for overall health. Spending time around nature has been proven to reduce stress and depression. In one study conducted in 2015, researchers examined the brain activity of two groups of people who took 90-minute walks, with one group in a natural setting and the other in an urban setting. The group from the outdoor setting had lower activity in the prefrontal cortex, which is where negative self-talk usually occurs. 
   
   
4. Greater Earning Power
   According to experts, areas with national parks tend to have a thriving tourist industry, which in turn creates more jobs and better financial opportunities.
   
   
5. Promotes Childhood Development
   In another revealing result from the OSU study, researchers discovered that kids under the age of 5 who lived near national parks were 10 percent taller than their peers who lived further away. While this is no guarantee for your child's height, there's no question that youngsters who have frequent exposure to nature gain physical and mental benefits, such as the development of cognitive skills that help with classroom learning.
   
   
6. Less Risk of Natural Disasters
   When you respect Mother Nature, she returns the favor. Forested areas in national parks remain untouched, which allows the trees to protect water sources. In addition, the West Coast is vulnerable to flooding, landslides, and other natural disasters that endanger the environment, along with humans and animals. Protected habitats stabilize the surrounding land, reducing the risk of such devastating incidents. 
   
   
7. Eco-Friendly Access to Nature
   There has been a long struggle finding a balance between outdoor activities that are enjoyable and accessible without causing damage to the environment. National parks provide a venue to spend time outdoors with minimal impact on our natural resources.
   
   
8. Maintains Biodiversity
   Over the years, society mistakenly believed that natural resources were infinite. Fishing, hunting, mining, and other practices were conducted with no thought about their long-term effects. Sadly, a number of ecosystems and animal species are now endangered today due to this behavior. National parks create protection for wetlands, forests, and other ecosystems and endangered animals such as gray wolves. 
   
   
9. Strengthens Friendships and Social Interactions
   How often do you attempt to plan an outing with friends and spend most of the time debating over dinner, a movie, or a ball game? A lively walk or vigorous bike ride on the trails of a national park are activities everyone can agree on. Being outdoors is also a great way to escape the pressures of daily life and focus on communicating with friends and loved ones.

Want to learn more about the parks around the Pacific Northwest? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for more information.

It's springtime in Portland, and life is good. There are countless reasons why our brokers are always excited about spring's return, but one of the biggest reasons is the unbeatable farm-fresh produce. 

Oregon is home to some of America's greatest and most diverse growers. You can find their crops every week at these Portland area farm stands and farmers markets. Check them out, and enjoy some fine spring weather while you're out there!

1. Bella Organic Farm - 16205 NW Gillihan Rd, Portland, OR 97231
   One of Portland's largest farms, Bella Organic Farm, offers everything from fresh vegetables at their farm stand to you-pick apples and berries. They even have their own winery and cider mill in-house. Although popular in fall for their pumpkin patch and corn maze, the farm has fresh offerings year-round, with dozens of crops that change with the seasons. The farm is located on Sauvie Island, just minutes from many Portland homes for sale. 
   
   
2. Portland Farmers Market at PSU - 1803 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97201
   The Portland Farmers Market has grown to include six markets at different locations on different days, but their flagship market at Portland State University is still arguably the favorite. It's been going strong every Saturday, year-round, since 1992. There may be no better place in Portland to find farm-fresh produce, along with local goods of all kinds. More than 100 vendors bring everything from locally cured cheeses and fresh-baked bread to handmade crafts and local honey and jams. 
   
   
3. Side Yard Farm and Kitchen - 4800 NE Simpson St, Portland, OR 97218
   Established in 2009, Side Yard Farm and Kitchen is a 1-acre urban farm, music venue, supper club, and catering business in Portland's NE Cully Neighborhood. They offer online and in-person markets where you can pick out your produce, as well as a "Garden Start" CSA subscription, which includes a selection of seedlings you can start in your own garden every month. Pick-up is every Wednesday and Friday. 
   
   
4. Fox + Bear Urban Farm - 10524 NE Morris St, Portland, OR 97220
   A small farm with a mission to help bring a closeness and connection with the earth to city folk of Portland, Fox + Bear Urban Farm grows hand-tended, organic produce in small batches. Available in the form of CSAs and occasionally through local markets, their produce is always of the highest quality, and the care that goes into growing it is plain to see. 
   
   
5. Topaz Farm - 17100 NW Sauvie Island Rd, Portland, OR 97231
   Formerly known as Kruger's Farm, Topaz Farm is a 130-acre family farm on Sauvie Island that grows organic, no-spray produce. You can browse their fruits and veggies at their farm stand, along with offerings from other nearby farms. The crops change with the seasons, so there's always something new and fresh to get excited about. Topaz Farm also hosts live concerts and farm-to-plate dinners throughout the warmer months. 
   
   
6. Hollywood Farmers Market - 4420 NE Hancock St, Portland, OR 97213
   Offering produce and other local goods from farmers throughout the region, the Hollywood Farmers Market is a staple of Portland's Hollywood Neighborhood. And while you can certainly find an abundance of fruits and vegetables hare, their ever-changing lineup of vendors also includes everything from local bakers, brewers, and distillers to fishers, coffee roasters, and growers of all kinds. The market takes place on the first and third Saturdays of every month, year-round. 
   
   
7. Coquine - 6839 SE Belmont St, Portland, OR 97215
   A beloved neighborhood restaurant in Southeast Portland's Mt. Tabor area, Coquine came up with some cool new ideas when indoor dining went away in 2020. Using the connections they had already developed with local farmers, they started putting together CSA-inspired farm boxes for their customers. It was a big hit. You can craft your own box using the form on their website, choosing among many fresh vegetables, eggs, meat, dairy products, and numerous other offerings. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in the Portland area. From freshly grown goodies to wild scenery and unique culture, it's a truly special place to call home. Our team is dedicated to helping you find your dream home in the Portland area. 

Sunday, March 14th is Pi Day, the annual celebration of the mathematical constant. While you could solve some math equations to celebrate, another option is to enjoy a slice of the dessert that shares its name. 

Our real estate agents are in favor of the second option. If you agree, you might see us at one of these awesome bakeries and pie shops in the Portland area on March 14th!

1. The Pie Spot - 521 NE 24th Ave, Portland, OR 97232
   The folks at The Pie Spot got their start selling pies at local Portland street fairs and farmers markets in 2009, and their tasty offerings took off in a big way. They now have two brick-and-mortar locations in the city, including this 24th Ave. hot spot just minutes from many Portland homes for sale. They offer amazing pies, both sweet and savory, specializing in meal-sized hand pies and seasonal specialties like brown butter pecan, blueberry ginger, and brandy apple crumble.
   
   
2. Pacific Pie Company - 1520 SE 7th Ave, Portland, OR 97214
   Have you had Australian pasties? They're tasty, savory hand-held pies that might contain any number of fillings, and man, are they good. Pacific Pie Company is Portland's leading purveyor of these savory Down-Under favorites, and they offer options for every meal. Go ahead and grab a green chili, egg, cheddar, potato pasty for breakfast, or maybe a spinach and feta pasty for lunch. Better yet, get both, and follow it up with a beef and mushroom stout pasty for dinner. Yum.
   
   
3. Petunia's Pies & Pastries - 610 SW 12th Ave, Portland, OR 97205
   Try to rid yourself of any preconceived notions you might have about vegan and gluten-free baked goods. At Petunia's Pastries, everything on the menu is vegan and gluten-free. And you know what? If they didn't tell you ahead of time, you would never know. Everything in this hip, adorable bakery is absolutely delicious, from the breakfast pastries to the cheesecake. And, of course, the pies or to die for. Their menu rotates seasonally, but rest assured, they always have multiple pie flavors on deck, and you can't go wrong. 
   
   
4. Lauretta Jean's - 3402 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97202
   You'll find every dessert under the sun at Lauretta Jean's, but the pies are, without a doubt, the stars of the show. Bourbon pecan, key lime, heirloom apple, chocolate cream, tart cherry—you name it. They're known around town for having the butteriest, flakiest, most delicious crusts around. Plus, they serve breakfast, lunch, coffee, beer, and wine. What else could one possibly need?
   
   
5. Sizzle Pie - 624 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
   The pizza is definitely a type of pie. Maybe the best type of pie. And as it happens, Sizzle Pie has become Portland's favorite spot for pizza, so much so that they've grown to include half a dozen locations throughout the city. The downtown spot on Burnside is still our favorite, though, and whether you're looking for a whole pie or a quick slice, you're sure to be satisfied. Sizzle Pie is also famous for making one of the best vegan pizza pies around. 
   
   
6. Wilde Pies - 2036 S Vermont St, Portland, OR 97219
   Every pie is unique at Wilde Pies. Every pie is custom-made from scratch and either readied for pickup or delivered right to your door. They offer plenty of classic pies available year-round, like apple, pecan, lemon meringue, coconut cream, and pumpkin. But others—like strawberry rhubarb, cranberry gingersnap, and fresh peach—are made using local, seasonal ingredients, so get them while you can! Vegan, gluten-free, and Keto-friendly options are available, and special requests are welcome. 
   
   
7. Baker & Spice - 6330 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland, OR 97239
   Founded in 1998, Baker & Spice is one of Portland's best bakeries, hands down. They make pies of practically any kind you could think of, including sweet pies, savory pies, hand pies, full-size pies, and specialty pies for any holiday or occasion. Of course, if you prefer to order an entire pie and take it home with you, you could hardly be blamed. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Portland. It's truly a one-of-a-kind place to call home, and our team is ready to answer any questions you may have about finding your dream home in the Portland area. 

Did you know that National Go to an Art Museum Day takes place every year on November 9th? Thousands of art museums around the world participate in this special day, and every year features a different, unique theme. The Portland area has long shown strong support for local artists, with a huge selection of local art galleries that showcase talented artists from Portland and beyond. Now is a great time to visit some of Portland's best art galleries and museums. Our brokers have the details on 6 amazing places to view art around Portland for National Go to an Art Museum Day this year.

1. Pearsons Art Gallery – 20890 S Hwy. 99E, Portland, OR 97045

   Start your tour of art galleries near Portland homes for sale with a trip to Pearsons Art Gallery, which features a truly unique collection of art that you won't find anywhere else. Pearsons Art Gallery is all about wood carvings, statues, sculptures, centerpieces, and so much more to decorate your home. If you're looking for a custom-made piece of art that you'll be proud to display in your home, this is a great place to visit. There are tons of pieces available pre-made in the gallery, and the owner (and artist) can also create custom pieces to suit your needs.

2. Village Gallery of Arts – 1060 NW Salzman Rd., Portland, OR 97229

   A Portland non-profit with a commitment to showcasing the work of local artists, the Village Gallery of Arts has been a hub of the Portland art scene for more than 50 years. This is a fun place for any art lover to visit, with fantastic local art on display and a wide variety of community classes available to help you create art of your own. The gallery here features exhibits from Portland-area artists working in various media, with work from more than 100 local artists on display.

3. Froelick Gallery – 714 NW Davis St., Portland, OR 97209

   You never know what you might find when you visit the Froelick Gallery, and that's part of the fun! Froelick Gallery has been a popular Portland art spot for more than 25 years, with rotating exhibitions from a diverse group of artists. Much of the work you'll see here was created in the Pacific Northwest, with a sprinkling of work from artists in Tokyo, as well. The gallery is open by appointment and accepts walk-in visitors if you happen to arrive when someone is present to let you into the gallery.

4. Caswell Sculpture – 903 E Historic Columbia River Hwy., Troutdale, OR 97060

   Owned and operated near Troutdale homes for sale by the husband-and-wife team of Rip and Alison Caswell, Caswell Sculpture is a must-see for anyone who loves bronze statues. The Caswells have traveled around the world to find inspiration for their art, and much of their work is based on nature. The gallery also features a fascinating collection of photography and bronze sculptures of people, both famous and obscure. There are even sculptures of university mascots, which you can find both in the gallery and on the grounds of some famous local universities.

5. Portland Art Museum – 1219 SW Park Ave., Portland, OR 97205

   When you're in the mood for the classic Portland art experience, start your journey at the Portland Art Museum. With more than a century of experience displaying local art, the Portland Art Museum is the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest. When you visit, you'll find an extensive collection of new exhibitions, long-term collections, films, and educational programs. Tour the expansive museum at your own leisure, or enjoy a guided tour from one of the friendly, knowledgeable staff members at the museum.

6. Three Rivers Artist Guild – 613 7th St., Oregon City, OR 97045

   With a commitment to showcasing the work of Oregon City artists, the Three Rivers Artist Guild is your source for great art near Oregon City homes for sale. Three Rivers Artist Guild features exhibit rotations that vary with each month, so there's always something new to see. The strong commitment to local artists means this is an excellent place to see work from emerging artists who haven't had their work displayed in other galleries. Each month features work from 30 to 40 new artists, so be sure to check back often to see all that the Oregon City art scene has to offer.

When you call Portland home, the region's vibrant, legendary local art scene is always just a short trip from your front door. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Portland, OR area.

Lions, tigers, and bears — oh my! Seattle is home to those species and so many more, thanks to the Woodland Park Zoo. Located in the Phinney Ridge neighborhood of Seattle, the zoo is committed to teaching guests the importance of conservation.

Woodland Park Zoo — 5500 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103

History of Woodland Park Zoo

Woodland Park Zoo is a beloved Seattle site, a destination that locals and visitors alike cherish. Our brokers included! After over a century of providing men, women, and children of all ages with an educational and immersive wildlife experience, it's hard to believe that once upon a time, this green space was once just a simple park along Seattle's Greenlake. Developed into a traditional English garden in the late 1800s by Englishman Guy Phinney, a large house, rose garden, pump house, and deer park once called this space home.

Seattle's first zoo was housed in at Leschi Park and owned by the Lake Washington Cable Railway. After Phinney's death, the City of Seattle purchased Woodland Park, and the animals were donated as the zoo's first residents when it was founded in 1899. The park was then divided into "Lower" and "Upper" Woodland Park after the construction of Aurora Avenue. It wasn't until 1967 that the first zones of the children's zoo were opened. Since then, Woodland Park Zoo has continued to grow, making room for countless new animals and educational and interactive opportunities!

Woodland Park Zoo Exhibits

So what can you and your family expect during your visit to the Woodland Park Zoo? The real question is, how can you experience everything in just a single day? With more than 1,100 animals from over 300 diverse species, the zoo features 92-acres of diverse natural habitats. Explore these amazing areas and discover the wonders of the animal world right in Seattle's backyard. Exhibits include:

• African Savanna: Journey into the African Savanna for a view of lion, giraffe, hippos, zebras, ostrich, and monkeys.
  
  
• Ambassador Animals: Meet the stars of the show — the Woodland Park Zoo ambassadors. Mammals, birds, and reptiles are ready to make your acquaintance.
  
  
• Assam Rhino Reserve: One of the most popular exhibits, the Assam Rhino Reserve, also features the Asian Brown Tortoise and Demoiselle Crane to keep the one-horned rhino company.
  
  
• Australasia: Enjoy a bird feeding experience at the Willawong Station after you spot snow leopards, emu, kookaburra, and wallaby.
  
  
• Molbak's Butterfly Garden: Opening up again for the Spring season, Molbak's Butterfly Garden lets over 500 butterflies take flight. The Microsoft Pollinator Patio is open year-round.
  
  
• Humboldt Penguin Exhibit: Don't let the name fool you, this penguin exhibit features Humboldt Penguins native to Chile and Peru.
  
  
• Northern Trail: Hike into the chilly Northern Trail to the Taiga Viewing Shelter and Tundra Center to feast your eyes on Steller's sea eagles, snowy owls, bears, wolf, and elk.
  
  
• Temperate Forest: Venture into the temperate forests, the same types of forests found in our region.
  
  
• Trail of Adaptations: Watch unique nocturnal animals like sloth, meerkat, and Komodo dragons frolic around at night.
  
  
• Tropical Asia: The Trail of Vines and Banyan Wilds showcase Asia's tropical locals like tigers, bears, pigs, otters, and orangutan.
  
  
• Tropical Rainforest: Featuring an Outdoor Tropical Rainforest and Indoor Tropical Rainforest, this area is home to Jaguar Cove. Animals like lemur, gorillas, anacondas, monkeys, ocelots, and tarantulas are waiting to welcome you.  

Whether you're a long-time fan of the Woodland Park Zoo or this is your first visit, your family will love spending a day learning about wildlife from around the world.

The zoo has been welcoming back guests and has made several changes due to COVID-19. Plan your visit and learn about their latest policies on their website. 

If you're looking at Seattle homes for sale, you'll be excited to discover that the Woodland Park Zoo has a great relationship with its surrounding community. Contact us today to tour homes in this neighborhood!

When most people think of Portland, our lively culture, delicious food, and gorgeous Pacific Northwestern backdrop often come to mind. Though the City of Roses is far younger than many cities on the East Coast, Portland still has a rich, fascinating history that is worth exploring. Founded way back in the 1840s, Portland's diverse history is accessible through our many museums, landmarks, memorial sites, and protected areas. If you're searching for a glimpse into Portland's past, our brokers encourage you to visit these interesting historical sites.

1. Shanghai Tunnels – 120 NW 3rd Ave., Portland, OR 97209
   Portland's Underground, also known as the Shanghai Tunnels are located in Old Town Chinatown. Beneath the buildings, a series of interconnected tunnels running all the way to the waterfront. Sadly, most of the tunnels have collapsed, preventing anyone from uncovering a clearer definition of their intended use. However, these tunnels are often sited through local lore to have been used to smuggle illegal goods from ships to the shore. 
   
   
2. The Pittock Mansion – 3229 NW Pittock Dr., Portland, OR 97210
   The Pittock Mansion is a historic house museum that was once the home of The Oregonian owner, Henry Pittock. As he built his financial empire in real estate, banking, railroads, and more, his wife used their wealth to start and support countless organizations benefiting the people of Portland, including the Martha Washington Home and the Ladies Relief Society. The mansion was acquired by the city and restored to act as a museum dedicated to this interesting piece of Portland's early history.
   
   
3. Waterfront Park – 98 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204
   Waterfront Park is a relatively new site for the city, with its ideation beginning in the early 1900s. It wasn't until 1974 that ground broke on this park, but it was well worth the wait as its been a popular social spot for Portlanders ever since. This park features many historical landmarks such as the Battleship Oregon Memorial, which was constructed to honor the retired ship that served our country in the late 1800s. The Founder's Stone is also on-site, which acts as a tribute to the city's founders who actually flipped a coin to determine whether the city would be named Portland or Boston. The Japanese American Historical Plaza is also within Waterfront Park, which honors the Japanese Americans of the Northwest who served in the United States military during World War II.
   
   
4. Oregon Holocaust Memorial – 95205 SW Washington Way, Portland, OR 97205
   The Oregon Holocaust Memorial is located outdoors in Washington Park. This memorial was dedicated in 2004 to the many residents of Portland and Washington that have had relatives who died in the camps; their names are engraved on the memorial wall. A soil vault panel, filled with soil and ash from six camps, sits alongside bronze tokens representing the everyday objects left behind as individuals from across Europe were transported to the camps.
   
   
5. Ankeny Plaza – 2 SW Ankeny St, Portland, OR 97204
   Ankeny Plaza was one of the first public spaces in Portland and contains a number of historical features. Located in Old Town Chinatown, this plaza is surrounded by buildings built in the mid-1800s and contains the oldest public art sculpture: Skidmore Fountain. Meant to act as a drinking fountain for men, dogs, and horses, this 14-ft bronze piece of art continues to be a public space where Portlanders and their animals can come to cool off.

Are you searching for an older, charming home in Portland that you can call your own? Our team can help! Contact us today to tour our listings of Portland homes for sale.

When you want the best, pick it fresh. That could be the motto at any of the many great farms around Portland where you can pick fresh, locally grown fruit and vegetables with your whole family. Heading to a farm is a great way to enjoy the early fall weather, get out of the house, and stock up on your favorite produce. As the calendar flips to fall, you can expect new and different opportunities at your favorite farms. Our brokers have the details on 5 great farms around Portland where you can pick your own fresh fruit and vegetables.

1. Douglas Farm – 15330 NW Sauvie Island Rd., Portland, OR 97231
   Many of the most visited farms around Portland homes for sale are located on Sauvie Island, and Douglas Farm is no exception. This farm has been in the same family for five generations, offering an excellent selection of fruit and veggies that you can pick yourself. Reservations may be required, so be sure to check the website before visiting. The farm will provide picking boxes for you to stock up on their farm. Current produce available for picking includes beans, peppers, tomatoes, eggplant, and many varieties of cucumbers.

2. Albeke Farms – 16107 S Wilson Rd., Oregon City, OR 97045
   You can find plenty of great farms near Oregon City homes for sale, too! Albeke Farms, located close to the city, specializes in berries of all types, along with peaches, apples, and a smaller selection of vegetables. This farm is open every day from Thursday through Sunday during the late summer/early fall picking seasons. Call ahead to find out what crops are available for picking, and plan on bringing home plenty of fresh produce. 

3. The Pumpkin Patch – 16511 NW Gillihan Rd., Portland, OR 97231
   One of the Portland area's largest farms, The Pumpkin Patch offers u-pick produce and so much more. Open for 52 years, this farm is a great spot to visit with the whole family, with a cafe, corn maze, animal barn, and tons of autumn activities. You can cut your own flowers from the beautiful blooms located on the property. Be sure to stop by the market as well, where you can find an excellent selection of freshly prepared farm-to-table food to take home. Their market is stocked up on 50 in-season fruits and vegetables grown on their farm and picked daily. 

4. Bella Organic – 16205 NW Gillihan Rd., Portland, OR 97231
   If you're searching for a great selection of certified organic produce in Portland, then it's hard to top Bella Organic. This farm offers all of your favorite berries, along with corn, tomatoes, and pumpkins in the early fall. There is also a winery on-site with tastings available, and a corn maze that offers fun for all ages. The farm store and food pavilion are great places to stop and recharge with a fresh, delicious meal in between picking. Looking for fall activities besides locally grown produce? Be sure to check out their haunted corn maze for a memorable October weekend. 

5. Topaz Farm – 17100 NW Sauvie Island Rd., Portland, OR 97231
   Family run and filled with activities for visitors of all ages, Topaz Farm is a great place to go picking this year. This farm is open every day and offers fresh, delicious outdoor dining on-site in addition to u-pick produce. Kids especially love to meet friendly farm animals and learn about farming from the team at Topaz Farm. Check out their website to learn about what's in season and plan ahead for their family-friendly events coming up during the fall months. 

Fresh, local produce and fantastic food are just part of the package when you call Portland home. Ready to find your next home? Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Portland, OR area.

Seattle is a city that's bustling with a unique creativity that's seen in everything from our architecture and art to our food and literature. So many Seattleites unlock their artistic passions when they discover a new hobby that acts as a perfect outlet for their creativity. If you're searching for a new pastime, our brokers encourage you to give glass blowing a try at one of these local glass blowing studios in the Seattle.

1. Seattle Glassblowing Studio – 2227 5th Ave., Seattle, WA 98121
   The Seattle Glassblowing Studio is an interactive art gallery where locals and visitors can learn about the glassblowing process, purchase custom made pieces, and even learn how to create their own glasswork. They've recently reopened their classes with limited enrollment to ensure maximum safety. Some lessons can be completed in as little as 15 minutes by glassblowers as young as five years old while other classes and private lessons can take one to three hours and are designed for adults and children aged 11 or older. 
   
   
2. Glasshouse-Studio – 311 Occidental Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98104
   Glasshouse-Studio was founded at the beginning of the northwest glass movement in the early 1970s. As the oldest glassblowing studio in the entire northwest, Glasshouse-Studio is the ultimate destination for those who absolutely love the art of glassblowing. We encourage you to tour their fascinating studio, speak with their talented artists, and view a live glassblowing demonstration before taking a piece home.
   
   
3. Pratt Fine Arts Center – 1902 S. Main St., Seattle, WA 98144
   The Pratt Fine Arts Center is one of the best places in the Emerald City to unleash your love of all things art. Among their other offerings, Pratt facilitates interesting classes ranging from introductory workshops for new beginners to Master Artist classes for the trained artist. Glassblowing, glass casting, flameworking, cold working, bead making, kiln glass, and glass fusing classes are all available for adults over 18 or children 16 and over with exceptions. You can take a 3D tour of Pratt's studio on their website to learn about the equipment used and discover what possibilities await your first lesson.
   
   
4. MoltenWorks – 12602 NE 178th St., Suite A, Woodinville, WA 98072
   If you're looking to get out of the city, take a quick trip up to MoltenWorks in Woodinville. Their two studios are now accepting registration for their glass blowing classes. Open studio sessions, Sip 'N Fuse classes, Ornament Workshops, and other workshops are designed for adults while they also have special kids classes for ages seven and above. If you don't feel comfortable attending classes in person, you can pick up one of their at-home glass kits.
   
   
5. Blowing Sands Glass Studio – 5805 14th Ave. NW, Seattle, WA 98107
   Although their glass blowing lessons are currently on hold due to the coronavirus, the pandemic hasn't stopped Blowing Sands Glass Studio from creating masterpieces. Staples of the Ballard Arts Community, Blowing Sands specializes in unique décor including custom lighting fixtures and other pieces designed on commission. Glassblower David Smith brings his quarter-century of experience to every piece, creating a one-of-a-kind work of art that looks wonderful wherever it finds a home. Their gallery is currently closed, but you can shop Blowing Sands' creations online and arrange convenient curbside pickup.
   
   
6. Avalon Glassworks – 2914 SW Avalon Way, Seattle, WA 98126
   A favorite spot for shopping in Luna Park, Avalon Glassworks has been making and selling their own gifts and décor since the early 1990s. Their selection of artwork is inspired by the Northwest landscape, creating unique pieces that encompass the region's natural beauty. If you would prefer to learn more about the glass blowing process without actually getting a hands-on lesson, a stop at Avalon Glassworks will yield enlightening conversations with their creators. Located next to The Spot coffee shop, a stroll through Avalon Glassworks is a must when visiting Luna Park. You can also browse their selection of glassworks on their website.

Would you love a new home to display your glass blowing creations in? Contact us today to tour our spacious Seattle homes for sale.

Get out of the house and enjoy the beautiful sites at the reopened Seattle Japanese Garden. This serene space located in Washington Park is the perfect place to relax your body, calm your mind, and let your soul absorb the beauty, wonder, and peacefulness that this park projects. Whether the Seattle Japanese Garden is one of your favorite spots in the Emerald City or if you've only heard about it but have never been, our brokers believe that now is a great time to support this city landmark.

60th Anniversary of the Seattle Japanese Garden

One reason you should visit the Seattle Japanese Garden is that it just celebrated its 60th anniversary on June 5th. Opened in 1960, the Seattle Japanese Garden is recognized as one of the best Japanese-style gardens on the continent. This charming garden features elements of Japan's many diverse landscapes. This special occasion is known as "kanreki", which marks a rebirth or return to childhood. Throughout the year, the Seattle Japanese Garden will commemorate this anniversary with special activities.

The Seattle Japanese Garden is Reopen for Visitors

Seattle Japanese Garden – 1075 Lake Washington Blvd. E., Seattle, WA 98112

• Hours
  Tuesday – Sunday 10 AM-7 PM during August
  Tuesday – Sunday 10 AM-6 PM during September
  
  
• Admission
  $8, Adults 18-64 
  $4, Ages 6-17, 65+, and College Students
  Free, Ages 0-5

After closing in accordance with local guidelines regarding the COVID-19 outbreak, the Seattle Japanese Garden happily welcomed back its first visitors on July 14th. The Seattle Japanese Garden has made a few temporary changes to ensure the safety of visitors and staff alike.

• The Seattle Japanese Garden has implemented a new timed ticketing system that requires visitors to purchase their tickets in advance online. These tickets will be purchased for a specific timeslot and cannot be changed or refunded.  
  
  
• Face coverings are required for all guests ages 5 and above.
  
  
• Paths throughout the garden will now be one-way only.
  
  
• Many areas and pathways will be closed until further notice, including the Tateuchi Community Room, the azumaya, various bridges, various platforms, and the Shoseian Teahouse.
  
  
• Tours and tea ceremonies are not offered at this time.
  
  
• You cannot bring in your own food or beverages, with the exception of your own drinking water as water fountains within the Seattle Japanese Garden are closed.
  
  
• Your group size cannot exceed five individuals, including children.

Planning Your Visit to the Seattle Japanese Garden

Although these temporary changes may place limitations on how visitors can engage with the Seattle Japanese Garden, you can still have a wonderful experience even if it's your first visit. 

How to plan your visit:

• Plan your visit well in advance to ensure that you can secure a ticket for the day you desire.
  
  
• Research the history of the Japanese-style garden and learn about the importance of the Seattle Japanese Garden.
  
  
• Be sure to eat a meal prior to your arrival and consider bringing a bottle of water for each person in your group.
  
  
• When you arrive, grab a brochure at the entrance so your group can complete a self-guided tour of the grounds.
  
  
• Follow all guidelines including wearing your mask at all times and progressing through the garden according to the marked paths.
  
  
• Most importantly, make sure to take a moment to sit and admire the beauty of each varied landscape of Japan certain areas represent.

Types of Plants at the Seattle Japanese Garden

Japan is a country with diverse geography, containing varied landscapes including mountains, islands, the sea, rivers, lakes, forests, and waterfalls. As you stroll the Seattle Japanese Garden, you'll encounter these unique regions of Japan and view some of the flora and fauna that call this country home. Some of the gorgeous species you'll find throughout the Garden include:

• Japanese forest grass
• Chinese silver grass
• Bamboos
• Miscanthus
• Cherry trees
• Japanese spicebush
• Western red cedar
• Arnold azalea
• Osmanthus
• Japanese camellias
• Hinoki
• Water lilies
• Japanese iris
• Corylopsis
• Lily of the Valley shrub
• Cryptomeria japonica
• Koto no Ito

The Seattle Japanese Garden is one of our favorite spots in the city. Recently reopened, we encourage you to visit this tranquil park before the summer ends. If you're interested in browsing Seattle homes for sale while you're in the area, feel free to contact us to schedule a tour.

Living in Seattle means that you're never far from natural beauty, and the Salmon Bay Wildlife Corridor is one example of why that's the case. The corridor is located within the city but has been preserved so that visiting feels like a trip to the wilderness. It's a place where you can see nature, discover local wildlife, and watch the great migration of salmon in action throughout the year. Ready to start exploring? Our brokers have you covered, with our guide to the sights you'll see and the activities that you can enjoy along the scenic Salmon Bay Wildlife Corridor.

• An Urban Wildlife Corridor in Seattle
  The Salmon Bay Wildlife Corridor is conveniently located close to Seattle homes for sale, running along Seaview Avenue by the water. Salmon Bay itself is located on the edge of the Puget Sound, just past the Ballard Locks and the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks Visitor Center. It's an estuary on the boundary where freshwater meets saltwater, which is a recipe for a bustling area of wildlife, activity, and natural beauty. 

• How Salmon Bay Got Its Name
  As you likely have guessed, Salmon Bay received its name because you will often find a diverse selection of salmon navigating the waters. What you may not know is that Salmon Bay is a key point on the migration path of many types of salmon, from the endangered chinook to the ubiquitous sock-eye. You can also find rare species like the steelhead and the coho. The migration happens from March through October, so there will be ample opportunities to spot your favorite fish throughout the year.

• A Haven for All Types of Wildlife
  While the salmon is a key attraction for visitors interested in spotting wildlife, the abundance of fish also attract many of the other types of birds and animals native to the area. When you visit, you might find a bald eagle perched majestically along the waterway, or a spectacular blue heron swooping down to catch a meal from the water. There are even sea lions along Salmon Bay, and you can often find them feasting on fish during the migration seasons. Whether you're interested in watching birds, spotting fish, or observing local ecosystems in action, there's so much to see on the Salmon Bay Wildlife Corridor.

• Start Your Journey at Discovery Park
  The Salmon Bay Wildlife Corridor runs from the Environmental Learning Center at Discovery Park to Golden Gardens Park along the Sound. The Environmental Learning Center is the perfect place to start your journey, with information on the Wildlife Corridor, the species that you'll see, and the extensive efforts made to preserve the area. You can explore some of the miles of trails located within Discovery Park, or head straight to the Wildlife Corridor for the main attraction. Along the way, you'll find signs telling you about the ecosystems and wildlife you will encounter.

• Watch Salmon Climb the Fish Ladder at the Ballard Locks
  If you're visiting the Salmon Bay Wildlife Corridor during the migration season, then you may be treated to one of the most impressive displays that nature can offer. Stop at the fish ladder, located at the Ballard Locks, to watch salmon make the uphill climb to the top of the ladder and set off toward their next destination. There are viewing areas that allow you to get very close to the fish, including the young salmon, using specially constructed slides to move in the opposite direction of migrating adults.

• End Your Day with a Picnic at Golden Gardens Park
  At the end of the Salmon Bay Wildlife Corridor, you'll find beautiful Golden Gardens Park, which offers views of the Puget Sound, Salmon Bay, and all of the wildlife that calls the area home. The park is located in a restored wetland, which attracts birds, mammals, amphibians, and a wide variety of fish. There are picnic areas perfect for enjoying a meal after your stroll, and if you visit at the right time, you may be able to watch sea lions enjoy their meal while you enjoy your own.

If you want all of the advantages of urban living while remaining connected to nature, then you will truly love living in Seattle. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the area.

Is it time for spring break already? If you're searching for fun, family activities to enjoy with your kids over spring break, you're in luck. The Portland area is filled with amazing attractions for families with kids, as our brokers and so many long-time residents can attest. Prepare for an unforgettable spring break filled with family memories, with our guide to 6 great things to do with your kids this spring in Portland.

1. Japanese Garden – 611 SW Kingston Ave., Portland, OR 97205
   Portland homes for sale make it easy to find fun, cultural activities to keep your kids entertained over spring break, thanks to fascinating attractions like the Japanese Garden. The Japanese Garden is an excellent mix of fun, education, and culture. Kids will love exploring the exotic, beautifully arranged plants in the garden, connecting with outdoor art, and climbing to the cultural village. At the cultural village, you'll find world-class Japanese architecture, with buildings featuring Japanese art and different activities for every season. Stop by on the right day, and you might find a unique live performance or demonstration from Japanese culture.
2. Oregon Zoo – 4001 SW Canyon Rd., Portland, OR 97211
   What could make for a better family outing than a day at the zoo? Enjoy the spring weather while you explore the vast Oregon Zoo, where there's always something new and exciting to see. The 64-acre zoo features five large exhibit areas, each highlighting wildlife from different parts of the world. Exhibits include forests, the Great Northwest, Asia, Africa, and much more. Nearly every day, you'll find a new performance, concert, educational talk, or special exhibit at the zoo. There's also plenty of food available, along with scenic, quiet places to rest when you spend a full day exploring.
3. North Clackamas Aquatic Park – 7300 SE Harmony Rd., Milwaukie, OR 97222
   You don't have to wait for summer to enjoy a family day at the pool close to Milwaukie homes for sale, thanks to the wonderful North Clackamas Aquatic Park. The Aquatic Park is home to Oregon's largest wave pool, and that's just the start! Kids love spending time racing down the various water slides at the facility and climbing the tall rock wall. There's a toddler splash zone for younger kids, along with multiple pools for swimmers of all ages. Kids can learn the ropes of pool safety with regular swimming classes, and adults love the aquatic exercise classes offered at North Clackamas Aquatic Park.
4. Evergreen Museum – 500 NE Captain Michael Smith King Way, McMinnville, OR 97128
   Family fun is never far from your front door around McMinnville homes for sale, and the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is one of the top family attractions in the area. The museum offers educational tours, where kids can learn about the history of aviation in a fun, engaging setting, or you can participate in a family scavenger hunt that will bring you to every corner of the museum. If you're planning a group event for spring break, kids can even spend the night at the museum! Of course, every day, there are amazing exhibits to see, on everything from early aviation to space flight technology.
5. World of Speed – 27490 SW 95th Ave., Wilsonville, OR 97070
   With a convenient location close to Wilsonville homes for sale, the World of Speed Motorsports Museum mixes education and entertainment in a way that kids love. Interactive exhibits at World of Speed are especially popular among children, including racing simulators that allow kids to feel what it's like to be behind the wheel of a real race car. The Starting Line Club is perfect for younger children, allowing them to learn about the science of vehicle manufacturing and racing in a fun, hands-on way.
6. Quarterworld – 4811 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Portland, OR 97215
   Does a day of new and retro arcade games sound like fun for you as it would be for your kids? Then it's time for a trip to Quarterworld, which is part arcade, part museum, and 100 percent family fun. Quarterworld is filled with all of your favorite arcade games from childhood. You won't find a better selection of classic pinball games anywhere in Portland, while Quarterworld also features delicious food and drink to keep everyone in your group at the top of their game.

No matter the season or occasion, there is always a fresh, fun family activity to enjoy when you call Portland home. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Portland, OR area.

Spend a bit of time hanging around Bend, and you'll quickly notice that the area is home to a huge collection of local breweries. While the quantity is nice, it's the quality of local breweries that sets Bend apart from most cities around the country. Bend now ranks as one of the best areas in the entire country for craft brewing, adding to the reputation of Central Oregon as one of the nation's real brewing hotspots. Our brokers have all of the exciting details on where to enjoy brews around Bend.

• Silver Moon Brewing – 24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend, OR 97730
  Bend homes for sale put you in the heart of a dynamic brewing community, thanks to great local breweries like Silver Moon Brewing. Established at a time when Bend was home to just two other breweries, Silver Moon remains one of the best spots in the city. Like most breweries in the area, Silver Moon Brewing starts with freshwater from mountain snow-melt for its beers, then builds complex flavors from that strong base. The Silver Moon Pub is a relaxed, inviting drinking destination, where you're likely to find a few new friends in addition to some excellent local brews.

• GoodLife Brewing Company – 70 SW Century Dr., Bend, OR 97702
  Enjoy a taste of the good life, with the diverse menu of locally brewed craft beers from the GoodLife Brewing Company. While some breweries specialize in creating sweet or sour beers, the team at GoodLife Brewing is all about balance. Beers here are never too sweet or bitter, but every brew is still packed with flavor. Ales are the signature style at this brewery, and the GoodLife Bierhall is the perfect place to enjoy these delicious local brews alongside an excellent meal.

• Bend Brewing Company – 1019 NW Brooks St., Bend, OR 97703
  If you're looking to enjoy an amazing craft brew in a classic pub atmosphere, be sure to take some time for the excellent Bend Brewing Company. Like Silver Moon Brewing, the Bend Brewing Company was one of the three original breweries in Bend. The team here has been creating hoppy, flavorful IPAs for 25 years, and even with increased competition remains one of the best breweries in the city. The Bend Brewing Pub is a popular hangout for locals and visitors alike, with a casual atmosphere, extensive food offerings, tons of TVs, and friendly, personal service.

• 10 Barrel Brewing Co. – 62950 NE 18th St., Bend, OR 97701
  With 20 taps featuring the best local brews and an unmatched menu of pub food, 10 Barrel Brewing Co. will always be one of Bend's favorite spots to enjoy a cold beer. The pub is located at 10 Barrel Brewing Co. Headquarters and features stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and the local scenery around Bend. Sample one of the many year-round brews available, or stop by during each season to check out a fresh selection of seasonal beers. You can even schedule a brewery tour to go behind the scenes.

• Worthy Brewing – 495 NE Bellevue Dr., Bend, OR 97701
  Local breweries are often great supporters of the communities where they do business, and Worthy Brewing truly goes the extra mile to be a valued part of the community. Of course, the beer and atmosphere are fantastic, too! Everything at Worthy Brewing, from the beers to the delicious food on your plate, is created with the freshest local ingredients. Worthy Brewing maintains a garden where many ingredients are sourced and partners with local farms for the rest. The result is a brewery celebrating everything that makes Bend so special.

• The Ale Apothecary – 30 SW Century Dr. Suite 140, Bend, OR 97702
  Searching for something unique for your next brew? The Ale Apothecary brews every batch in handmade oak barrels and sources every ingredient locally to create flavors that you won't find anywhere else. With a commitment to all-natural brewing techniques and a reverence for the bounty that local land supplies, the team at the Ale Apothecary creates unique brews that keep regulars coming back for more. 

If you love fresh, unique local brews, then you'll feel right at home in Bend. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the area.

"You make a million decisions that mean nothing, and then one day you order take-out, and it changes your life."

Such is the story of a man and a woman in the iconic romantic comedy Sleepless in Seattle. This 1993 hit starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan.

A romcom that still holds a special place in our hearts nearly 30 years later, Sleepless in Seattle, places the Emerald City front and center on the silver screen. Our brokers suggest venturing to these seven Seattle hot-spots featured in Sleepless in Seattle.

1. Pike Place Market — 85 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98101
   Scene: Sam's son, Jonah, first meets his dad's new girlfriend, Victoria, at Pike Place Market.
   Perhaps the most famous Seattle attraction aside from the Space Needle, Pike Place Market is a bustling center of culture located on a beautiful stretch of waterfront. Opened over a century ago, nine acres of space feature farmer's markets, crafts markets, seafood markets, food stalls, restaurants, shops, and more. Don't just grab a photo as a souvenir — be sure to stroll the alleyways of the market and taste everything!
   
   
2. The Athenian Seafood Restaurant & Bar — 1517 Pike Pl., Seattle, WA 98101
   Scene: Sam and his friend, Jay, eat lunch while discussing relationships.
   Located within Pike Place Market, this restaurant and bar has a special plaque signifying the stool on which Tom Hanks' character sat in the scene. The Athenian has been in Pike Place Market since 1909, and you'll discover why when you try one of their fresh seafood dishes.
   
   
3. Inn at the Market — 86 Pine St., Seattle, WA 98101
   Scene: Although they do not go into this boutique hotel, Sam and his friend Jay walk beneath the Inn at the Market's awning.
   Inn at the Market, located steps away from Pike Place Market, offers 76 rooms and suites providing visitors with direct access to the food, views, and culture found by the Seattle waterfront. If you're in town searching for Seattle homes for sale, stay at the Inn at the Market to get a true taste of the area.
   
   
4. Lake Union — 860 Terry Ave. N, Seattle, WA 98109
   Scene: Sam and his son live on a houseboat, docked on beautiful Lake Union.
   This freshwater lake is a fantastic place for outdoor recreation, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and boating. Head out onto the water and admire the great Seattle skyline or sit along the shore and enjoy a relaxing picnic surrounded by the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
   
   
5. Gas Works Park — 2101 N. Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103
   Scene: Alone on his houseboat, Sam watches New Year's Eve fireworks over Gas Works Park.
   This 19-acre park is a perfect place for families to play. Gas Works Park is located on the north shore of Lake Union, allowing you to hit two scenic Sleepless in Seattle spots in one stop!
   
   
6. Alki Beach — 1702 Alki Ave. SW., Seattle, WA 98116
   Scene: Annie secretly watches Sam and his son, Jonah, play on Alki Beach.
   Seattle's closest beach, Alki Beach Park, is roughly two-miles long, offering visitors and locals alike a place to enjoy the outdoors all year long. With great views of the Seattle skyline and Bainbridge Island, Alki Beach is a wonderful place to relax after a long day chasing the scenes from Sleepless in Seattle.
   
   
7. Dahlia Lounge — 2001 4th Ave., Seattle, WA 98121
   Scene: Annie hires a private investigator who follows Sam to a location where he's having a date with Victoria. 
   Considered the quintessential Seattle restaurant experience, Dahlia Lounge is known as the epicenter of Seattle's local, organic, and sustainable food movement. This delicious dining destination opened by Tom Douglas offers fresh tastes from throughout the Pacific Northwest. Unfortunately, the original restaurant location, as seen in Sleepless in Seattle, has moved, which means it doesn't resemble the movie's scene any longer. Still, they have one of the best menus in the downtown area, making it a must-visit for your Seattle tour. Enjoy Dungeness crab cakes, local oysters, and their delectable triple coconut cream pie — without a private investigator spying on you as you eat.

Would you like to live near these famous Seattle locations? Contact us today, and we'll give you a tour through the best Seattle homes for sale.

With Thanksgiving and its turkey now just a memory, we're firmly in the thick of the holiday season. December's ticking away at a rapid clip, but before you get mired in a tangle of tinsel, gift wrapping or kransekake baking, have some fun first! There's so much going on this time of year it's hard to choose. Here are a few ideas we just couldn't resist.

Portlanders really know how to get into the spirit, or should we say spirits, this time of year? At the  Holiday Ale Festival in downtown Portland, nearly 50 craft brews and ciders will be on tap, along with food, merchandise and more (Dec. 4-8). On the other hand, what could be more fun than 300 tubas gathered together in Portland's Pioneer Courthouse Square to play Christmas carols and other seasonal songs at Tuba Christmas (Dec. 14)? You'll see more than three ships go sailing by at this year's Christmas Ships Parade, where for two weeks fleets of festively decorated vessels will cruise the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, much to the delight of the onshore crowds (Dec. 5-22). A trip to the zoo is family fun any time of year, but ZooLights at the Oregon Zoo ups the ante with a display of more than 1.5 million bulbs that turn the animal kingdom into a magical wonderland (through Jan. 5). Seattle has its Candy Cane Lane, but Portlanders head to Peacock Lane, where residents there have been festooning their Tudor-style homes in holiday garb since the 1930s. Drive through or park nearby and stroll at your leisure. Free hot chocolate and cider will be on hand, though a donation is appreciated (Dec. 15-31).

In Bend, there's an interesting onstage sequel to Pride and Prejudice, the Jane Austen classic, in Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley, presented by the Cascades Theatrical Company. Set two years after the original novel and focusing on middle sister Mary, the play has been called "an unstuffy, highly entertaining and warm-spirited work," by the Chicago Tribune (through Dec. 15). In the Old Mill District, local choirs sing their hearts out and fill the air – and shops and restaurants in the outdoor mall – with holiday spirit (through Dec. 21). The Old Mill District is also the site of the annual menorah lighting in celebration of Hanukkah, with music, food, Hanukkah gelt (chocolate coins) and more (Dec. 22). Pack up the kids and head to Gingerbread Junction at Sunriver Resort, where amazing candy and cookie creations have been dazzling holiday visitors for nearly a quarter century (Dec. 6-Jan. 4).

The Teddy Bear Suite at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel in downtown Seattle is an annual holiday pleasure for kids and parents alike. But heads up: If you plan to visit the teddy bear wonderland on the weekend, be prepared for a lengthy wait in line (through Dec. 26). In Bellevue, it's a party every day on Snowflake Lane, where a nightly parade of holiday characters, dancers, lighted floats, falling snow – even Santa as the 12^th Man – enliven the sidewalks between Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square (through Dec. 24). After the parade, sashay over to the ice rink, strap on your skates and enjoy more than 9,000 square feet of real ice. Can't skate? Don't worry; free skating lessons are available or you can take a two-week class for $40 (through Jan. 20). Area green-thumbers are in for a seasonal treat at the Garden d'Lights, the annual holiday extravaganza of more than half a million twinkling lights shaped like plants, flowers, birds and more on view at the Bellevue Botanical Center (through Dec. 31). See you there!

Since 1988 Pier 54 has become one of the top tourist destinations in the Seattle Waterfront. Famously home to the flagship Ivar's restaurant, the pier has become a symbol of Seattle and is a central location for a fun day on the waterfront. There is no doubt that our Brokers like to highlight how vibrant and fun a city Seattle is, and Pier 54 contributes to that atmosphere.

Waterfront Fun Begins at Pier 54 

Pier 54 is a familiar sight for commuters as it is adjacent to the ferry terminal that serves popular destinations such as West Seattle, the Olympic Peninsula, and Vashon Island. This was why it was considered such a prime location for some of Seattle's oldest businesses. These businesses include such Seattle originals as:

• Ivar's Acres of Clams Seafood Restaurant
• Ye Olde Curiosity Shop Museum and Gift Shop 
• Simply Seattle Gift and Souveniers
• Kidd Valley Burger and Shakes
• The Frankenfurter Hot Dog Stand

While the eateries do brisk business with commuters waiting for their ferries, these businesses provide a place for visitors to fuel up and get ready for a waterfront walk.

Pier 54 Nearby Attractions

As a gateway to the entire waterfront. Pier 54 is next to some of Seattle's most popular tourist attractions. Pier 55 features a variety of shopping opportunities such as the Seattle T-Shirt Company and Frankly Sweets, but it all revolves around Argosy Cruises. Argosy provides sightseeing trips in the Puget Sound that includes historical tours, shore excursions, and even whale-watching opportunities. After these day trips, many visitors like to refresh themselves at the Eliott Oyster House on Pier 55. 

Alaskan Way Makes the Waterfront Come Alive

As tourists continue down Alaskan Way past the Seneca Street and UnIvarsity Way intersections, the waterfront opens up not only to higher traffic but also in terms of dIvarsity of opportunity. Pier 57 is the heart and soul of the waterfront and possibly the most fun you can have with a view of the Puget Sound. Along with a boarding point for City Sightseeing Seattle tour buses, there are opportunities to see the city from a higher vantage point at Wings over Washington. There is also a full and vibrant arcade called Miner's Landing that includes:

• The Seattle Great Wheel (Giant Ferris Wheel)
• Vintage Carousel 
• Games and Prizes
• The Crab Pot Restaurant
• Ice Creamery
• Pirate's Plunder Novelty Gift Shop 

Make it a Day at the Seattle Aquarium

The massive Seattle Aquarium takes up Piers 59 and 60 and has just as much fun packed into it. A visit to the Seattle Aquarium will allow you to learn more about the beautiful marine life that calls the Pacific Northwest home. Featuring Sea Otters, Octopi, and a beautiful luminous jellyfish exhibit, it is a great place to take the entire family.

Exhibits give little ones the chance to get up close and personal with some of the more gentle creatures of the deep. While bigger kids can marvel at the 120,000-gallon exhibit and 360 degrees underwater dome. All proceeds will go toward education and conservation of the Puget Sound's marine environment. 

A Walk To Remember

This is just scratching the surface of the opportunities for fun and relaxation that the area around the southern piers of Seattle's waterfront provides for visitors to the Emerald City. Just up the hill is the many businesses of the historic Pike's Place Market and the downtown area, offering endless exploration, leisure, and shopping opportunities. For those who want to continue their journey down the waterfront, It is a beautiful walk on a summer day that is often bustling will streetside merchants and performers. On the other side of the waterfront, the Bell Harbor cruise ship terminals await for those who have been inspired to seek an ocean voyage.

The Seattle Waterfront is just one part of the gorgeous city of Seattle. Contact us to start your search for Seattle homes for sale to find the Pacific Northwest home of your dreams.

If Seattle is the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Pike Place Market is its soul. This bustling, energetic attraction in the core of the city is virtually its own neighborhood, serving as a top draw for tourists and locals alike. 

What makes Pike Place Market such a must-see spot in one of the country's most vibrant cities? Join our brokers as they take a deep dive into the history, tradition, and appeal of Seattle's iconic marketplace.

History of Pike Place Market

During the early 1900s, Seattle was making the transition from frontier town to an urban center. The rapidly growing population created a strong demand for fresh produce, dairy products, meat, and other food items from nearby farms.

Unscrupulous wholesalers took advantage of the situation, paying farmers next to nothing and selling the goods alongside the downtown waterfront at exorbitant prices. Thanks to a proposal from City Councilman Thomas Revelle, Seattle decided to create a public marketplace where farmers could sell directly to consumers.

The fledgling market, located on newly-named Pike Place, opened for business on August 17, 1907, making it one of the country's oldest continually-operated public farmers' markets. Permanent arcades were constructed to house the vendors along with an eclectic mix of artists, activists, and eccentrics who began to gather regularly.

"Save the Market"

Sadly, the internments of World War II led to most of the Market's occupants being forced away. In 1941, Italian farmer Joe Desimone purchased the arcades and temporarily resurrected the Market, but post-WWII suburban sprawl resulted in a severe business downturn.

The Market was on the docket for demolition in the 1960s until architect Victor Steinbrueck founded a movement to "Save the Market." On November 2, 1971, Seattle voters approved a measure designating Pike Place Market as a nine-acre historic district.

Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority

Today the Market falls under the management of Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (PDA),  a non-profit public corporation chartered by the city in 1973. In addition to maintaining the Market's physical structures and supporting its businesses, the PDA is charged with providing residential housing and services for low-income people within the district.

As part of PDA's mission, Pike Place Foundation was established in 1982. During its lifetime, the Foundation has granted more than $30 million to support the Market's Senior Center and Food Bank, Childcare and Preschool, Clinic and other neighborhood services.

The Foundation's hallmark is its mascot, Rachel the Piggy Bank, "born" in 1986. This 550-pound life-sized bronze piggy bank, located under the Market's signature sign and clock, is a favorite spot for photo opportunities and donations. Rachel's cousin Billie has held a spot of honor on the Market's waterfront since 2016. Be sure to rub their snouts for good luck!

Notable Market Vendors, Restaurants and Shops

When it comes to shopping at the Market, you can find everything from soup to nuts. Some of the vendors have taken on celebrity status.

• Coffee legend Starbucks has become synonymous with Seattle, and you can visit the Market location where it all began.
• Even people who have never been to the Market know about Pike Place Fish Market, aka "where they throw the fish." Nearly every mention of Seattle on national TV includes a shot of the fishmongers tossing customer purchases over to the wrapping counter.
• Watch the artisans at Beecher's Homemade Cheese, create their award-winning products, including the Flagship variety. Beecher's has become so popular that they opened an outpost in New York City's Flatiron District.
• Fresh ingredients call for top-quality tools and utensils. Pick up some great new gadgets at the original location of gourmet kitchen store Sur La Table. 
• Three Girls Bakery is not only the longest continually operating business in the Market, but it's also the first business licensed to a woman in Seattle.
• In Sleepless in Seattle, Tom Hanks and Rob Reiner famously discuss tiramisu over clams and beer at the Market's Athenian Seafood Restaurant & Bar.
• Pike Place Chowder's soup is the best on both coasts. The soup won the title of "Best New England Clam Chowder" at Westport, Connecticut's Chowdafest four years in a row.
• Seattle restaurateur Tom Douglas claimed victory over Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto on Food Network's classic completion show. His empire includes popular Market eateries Etta's, Seatown Market Diner and Rub with Love Shack.

Seattle homes for sale may seem like a dream, but they can easily become your reality. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Bain for experienced help with all your Seattle real estate needs.

Redmond Is Known as the Best Place to Live in Washington

Our brokers have been fielding a growing number of questions about Redmond homes for sale, and there's no surprise why. It is the hottest place to live in the state.

That's the opinion of Niche.com, which put Redmond at the top of its list of best places to live. Redmond is making waves as one of the most desirable cities in Washington.

There's so much to love about Redmond, the biggest question is: Where to start?

Just a short drive east of Seattle, Redmond benefits from an amazing location. It has long been known as the home of Microsoft and Nintendo of America, but that's only the start of what's attracted its 65,000 residents to this "Bicycle Capital of the World."

Let's take a closer look at the secrets of what makes Redmond special:

Redmond Has a Robust High-Tech Employment Scene

Founded 1975, $110 billion technology giant Microsoft moved to Redmond in 1986 and remains the biggest employer in the city. Its campus on One Microsoft Way stretches over eight million square feet and easily serves more than 40,000 employees at a time.

Many other top brands also call Redmond home. Terex, a manufacturer of materials handling equipment, is the #2 local employer. Professionals can also find opportunities with AT&T, Honeywell, UPS, and – yes – Nintendo of America. Naturally, many more major companies are located in nearby Seattle.

The Best Events and Attractions in Redmond

No brief post can do justice to the rich diversity of Redmond, but this will get you started:

1. Pacific NW Chalkfest – 7525 166th Avenue Northeast, Redmond, WA 98052
   Happening August 16-18 at the Redmond Town Center, the Pacific NW Chalkfest is a free and family-friendly homage to an underestimated art form. National, international, and regional chalk artists will be in attendance to create magnificent pastel masterpieces.
2. Rockin' on the River – 8703 160th Avenue Northeast, Redmond, WA 98052
   From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursdays, residents and visitors alike can enjoy free concerts on the green of Garden Plaza at Rockin' on the River. Concessions are provided by the Redmond Kiwanis Club. This year will showcase Heart by Heart, The Beatniks, Cherry Cherry, and High Tide.
3. So Bazaar – 16101 Northeast Redmond Road, Redmond, WA 98052
   Happening on three Thursday evenings in August, So Bazaar transforms the downtown into an imaginative wonderland. Art, music, and food follow the themes of nature: Air, water, and fire. Lots of local vendors will be on hand with crafts and souvenirs.
4. Microsoft Visitor Center – 15010 Northeast 36th Street, Building 92, Redmond, WA 98052
   The next best thing to working there is taking a tour of the Microsoft Visitor Center. In the tradition of some of the best museums around, it is packed with interactive exhibits. Walk through history with games, technology demos, and a surprisingly tasty assortment of on-site concessions.
5. Black Raven Brewing Company – 14679 Northeast 95th Street, Redmond, WA 98052
   Black Raven Brewing Company is the most famous of the flavorful crop of craft breweries here in Redmond. A hip and happening taproom offers pints and growlers from an ever-rotating blend of microbrews. Though there's no food on the premises, there's almost always a lunch truck parked outside!
6. Marymoor Park – 6046 West Lake Sammamish Parkway Northeast, Redmond, WA 98052
   Redmond takes care of its beautiful natural landscape, and you can see the care right here in popular Marymoor Park. A beloved destination for a day out, it sprawls over 640 gorgeous acres. Canine companions are welcome in the dog park. There's also a climbing wall and frequent concerts.

There are Institutions and Amenities You'll Love

When it comes to all the things that make up a community, Redmond consistently stands out, especially when compared to cities of similar size. It features top-ranked public schools as well as higher education in the form of the Digipen Institute and Lake Washington Technical College.

Redmond is also well-known for its remarkable level of safety. There's a strong relationship between business, law enforcement, and the community which has made it a top tourist destination as well as a choice for growing families.

Head-Turning Art and Culture

Art, culture and sports run the gamut in Redmond from contemporary galleries to street art. As you journey through the city, you'll find dozens of public art installations. The city maintains a thriving artist-in-residence program and its own poet laureate, too.

Community-centered organizations like the Redmond Historical Society and the Redmond Association of Spoken Word enjoy high participation in the city. There's always something to see and do, whether you prefer to spectate or participate.

Find Your Home in Redmond with Coldwell Banker Bain 

You've seen what Redmond has to offer, now discover it for yourself. Our team will help you every step of the way in your search for the perfect Redmond homes for sale. Contact us to learn more.

August Events in Portland to Fill Your Month with Fun

Our Brokers know there is always something fun to see and do here in Portland. When you choose Portland homes for sale, you'll be in the midst of a thriving live theater and entertainment scene. Things kick into full gear in August!

From world-renowned bands to Broadway divas and headlining comedians, everyone is in on the act. That means no matter what you're in the mood for, there's something out there you'll love.

Let's check out the top concerts, shows, and plays in Portland in August:

Concerts

1. Weird Al Yankovic – 1332 West Burnside Street, Portland, OR 97209
   The king of musical comedy and loving pop culture homages comes to Portland's McMenamins Crystal Ballroom on Wednesday, August 14. Weird Al is known for his brilliant parodies and energetic on-stage antics. Portland is one of his favorite places to perform!
2. Feist – 4001 SW Canyon Road, Portland, OR 97221
   Appearing at the Oregon Zoo at 7 p.m. on August 13, indie pop sensation Feist and popular piano group Rhye will hit the stage. You've seen Canadian-born Feist appear throughout North America and Europe. The Portland show is part of one of her biggest tours to date.
3. The B-52's – 4001 SW Canyon Road, Portland, OR 97221
   Also popping in at the prestigious Oregon Zoo is The B-52's. Known for their unique rock sound drawing influences from the 50s and 60s, they created such perennial hits as Love Shack and Roam. They're sure to reprise some fan favorites at six o'clock, August 6.
4. Mumford & Sons – 1 North Center Street, Portland, OR 97227
   Arriving at Moda Center on August 5, Mumford & Sons is an award-winning British band. With a focus on folk-rock incorporating elements of bluegrass and alternative, they are perhaps best known for their chart-topper Little Lion Man.

Shows

1. Kathleen Van De Veere – 1422 SW 11th Avenue, Portland, OR 97201
   Performer Kathleen Van De Veere will treat audiences to a night of Broadway at The Old Church Concert Hall on Wednesday, August 7. This one-woman show includes a live band and three hours of unforgettable performances.
2. Flying Lotus – 10 NW 6th Avenue, Portland, OR 97209
   Los Angeles-based rapper Flying Lotus is known for the exceptional visual stage design that helps power every one of his performances. Virtual worlds of color and light will draw you into the experience as you enjoy his experimental hip-hop and alternative sound at the Roseland Theater this August 10.
3. Sinbad – 510 SE 9th Ave, Portland, OR 97214
   Coming to life on stage at Helium Comedy Club, legendary comedian Sinbad offers a night to remember on Saturday, August 31. Sinbad balances a quick, witty, lighthearted style with some of the best crowd work in the business. You might find yourself ready to stand up and cheer.
4. Marc Maron –1300 SE Stark Street, Portland, OR 97214
   Marc Maron is known for everything from a one-man show on divorce to a successful stint on morning radio. Now, Maron brings his musings to Portland's Revolution Hall for two days in mid-August.

Plays

1. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – 222 SW Clay Street, Portland, OR 97201
   Running at the nationally-known Keller Auditorium from August 13 through 18, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is an iconic tale. Reimagined for the stage with breathtaking visuals, sets, and costumes, it's like no other version you've seen before.
2. Hair – 1111 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97205
   Appearing in August at the Brunish Theater is Hair. An exuberant, musical celebration of counterculture and creativity, Hair is as relevant today as it was for its original audience back in 1967.
3. How I Learned to Drive – 7515 North Brandon Avenue, Portland, OR 97217
   Side-splitting comedy and high drama will both be in attendance in How I Learned to Drive at Portland's Twilight Theater Company. This Pulitzer Prize-winning play is an endearing look at a young woman's journey to survive and flourish under challenging circumstances. Warning for mature themes.
4. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee – 128 N 11th Avenue, Portland, OR 97209
   On August 12 at 7 p.m., Gerding Theater at The Armory will host this hilarious and touching look into the young loves of kids spelling their way through the competition. It's put on by Anonymous Theater, where actors do not meet each other before the performance.

Portland's amazing culture is just one more reason you'll love living here. Coldwell Banker Bain makes it easier than ever to find your dream home in Portland and our surrounding areas. Our team of experienced real estate experts knows the Portland market inside and out.

No matter whether you're trading up, downsizing, or buying your first home, we're here to help. Our customer service is beyond compare in Portland. You'll be supported every step of the way.

Contact us today to find out more about buying one of our Portland homes for sale.

For you, buying a house is not just ticking off another box on the list – it's personal. Because owning your own home means you get to decide which colors to paint the wall, how many dogs you get to have (backyard permitting), and which tree you'll build your kid's tree fort in. Having a place of your own isn't just the quintessential American Dream, it's the dream you've kindled For. Ever. But you live in Seattle and have heard the horror stories about too few houses for sale and sky-high prices. Now, you're afraid your dream may never come true.

Well, don't give up. Buying a home in Seattle is a lot like buying a home anywhere else, only different. Yes, the market here is a tight and prices are above the national average but that doesn't mean you're destined to a lifetime of renting. Coldwell Banker Bain's Team Diva know the ins and outs of the local market and what it takes to be successful in landing the home of your dreams. It starts with education, yours, so they've put together a complete guide, A to Z called, appropriately, How to Buy a Home in Seattle. In it you'll discover:

• How to determine your home-buyer personality
• How to find the right real estate agent for you
• Steps to get your financing in order
• How to make a winning offer
• What to do when you're under contract (and why it's not the time to buy a car)
• And more …

Whether you're ready to buy a house or just curious about the process, this comprehensive guide is for you. Never have the steps to buying a home in Seattle been laid out so clearly. See for yourself.

Portland Food-On-Wheels: 10 Favorite Food Carts

Call us biased, but some of our Brokers think Portland has the tastiest food carts in America. Food carts (aka trucks) are a staple in our local Portland community.  

Depending upon who you talked to, Portland's first food trucks came into the picture as early as 1910 with Joseph Gatto selling from a horse-drawn cart. Fast forward to 2019, and you'll find nearly 600 food carts in our city with the aroma of food enticing hungry passersby to flock to their neighborhood. 

Food carts have a style all their own that adds to the charm of Portland. Food carts are a huge part of our culture in Portland, and their popularity only continues to grow throughout our neighborhoods. Recently, a U.S. Chamber of Commerce study named Portland as one of the five friendliest cities across America for food trucks.  Our city's food-friendly attitude invites new entrepreneurs to build their food cart businesses here and add to our "food-omenon."

If you're searching for Portland homes for sale, you'll want to try out some of our restaurants on wheels.

Many locals use apps like Food Truck Fiesta, Eat St., and Roaming Hunger to track their favorite trucks. For the most part, each cart has a weekly rotation so you can always find them.

Let's say hello to ten of the top food trucks in the city:

1. Gracie's Apizza – 8371 North Interstate Avenue, Portland, OR 97217
   Gracie's Apizza is a fusion of New Haven and Portland pizza with genuine wood-fired pies served from an iconic little red van. You can find Gracie's ranging throughout many Portland neighborhoods, from Kenton to Hillsborough. The mozzarella is always made fresh.
2. Gumba – Northeast Alberta Street and Northeast 23rd Avenue, Portland, OR 97211
   Gumba operates out of an unassuming cart led by local celebrity Jesse Martinez, the former sous chef of elegant Bar Mingo. With partner Robin Brassaw, he creates hand-crafted pasta dishes you have to see to believe. From beef short rib to Pizza Mondays, it runs the gamut of flavors.
3. Matt's BBQ – 4233 North Mississippi Avenue, Portland, OR 97217
   You'll spot Matt's BBQ in Prost Marketplace, where top food carts hang out. The headliner is a simple yet succulent barbecue, but there are many Tex-Mex meals to choose from. Start with The Whole Shebang for a taste of all the meats and three side dishes.
4. MF Tasty Food Truck – 3925-3927 North Williams Avenue, Portland, OR 97227
   MF Tasty Food Truck is the brainchild of chef-owner Eric Gitenstein, known for his delectable paella of the week. Cheesy quesadillas, cart-made chorizo, and other beloved Mexican-American bites can be enjoyed to go or under the covered seating area nearby.
5. Kee's #Loaded Kitchen – 3625 Northeast MLK Jr. Boulevard, Portland, OR 97212
   Kiauna Nelson is an Internet sensation who rose to prominence with Kee's #Loaded Kitchen after teaching herself to cook and earning a business degree. Here, she serves up daily specials fresh. Check out her social media to learn what they are each day.
6. Hapa PDX Ramen – 6035 Northeast Halsey Street, Portland, OR 97213
   Your ramen craving will be cared for with Hapa PDX Ramen, which has brought the savor of Hawaiian-style ramen to Portland. Its G-Special Ramen is not to be missed: It combines pork and chicken broth, sprouts, spinach, pork belly, and a sprinkling of shiitake mushrooms.
7. Wolf and Bear's – 113 Southeast 28th Avenue, Portland, OR 97214
   With nearly ten years of experience behind it, Wolf and Bear's is lauded as the top Portland food truck for Middle Eastern food. It has two locations in Portland and is known for its extensive vegetarian-friendly menu. Classics like falafel and hummus are always on hand here!
8. Wild North – 930 Southeast Oak Street, Portland, OR 97214
   Right outside Basecamp Brewing, Wild North serves up wood-fired cuisine from a refurbished Pyro Pizza cart. Local ingredients come together in spectacular ambitious dishes like whiskey lamb bone marrow topped with mushroom gremolata. Don't miss out on the clam chowder.
9. Viking Soul Food – 4255 Southeast Belmont Street, Portland, OR 97215
   Authentic Scandinavian delights await you at Viking Soul Food! Rounding off nine years of experience, it pairs heaping helpings of meatballs with smoked salmon and hot seafood chowder. Wash everything down with a cold, refreshing lingonberry iced tea.
10. Burger Stevens – 6238 Southwest Capitol Highway, Portland, OR 97239
    What about the old-fashioned burger? Grab one at Burger Stevens, home of chef Don Salamone – a veteran of multiple Michelin-starred restaurants. His cheeseburger may well be the best in Portland thanks to its Creekstone ground beef.

The flavors of Portland will tempt your taste buds, and the city's fleet of lunch trucks grows by the day. Why not get started on your road to a Portland home you'll love? To find out more or get started, contact us today. We look forward to helping you.

Our Brokers are getting ready to enjoy another spectacular 4th of July around Portland and Seattle. When it comes to Independence Day, our area goes all out: We have some of the most memorable events anywhere in the United States.

No matter whether you've just moved in or you're still looking around, you'll enjoy the warm welcome that these two cities and their surrounding communities can offer. There's something for everyone around the 4th of July. From kids to adults, everyone will be left wide-eyed!

Looking for the best way to enjoy the holiday? We are taking a look at 10 events throughout our Pacific Northwest communities:

1. Seafair Summer Fourth – 2101 North Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103
   Situated at Gas Works Park not far from Seattle homes for sale is the Seafair Summer Fourth celebration. This 4th of July favorite is one of the biggest fireworks displays in the area. You'll thrill to a custom musical score while enjoying brews from the beer garden and some of the city's most beloved food trucks. Live entertainment will be on hand, too!
   
   
2. Celebrate Kirkland 4th of July – 440 Central Way, Kirkland, WA 98033
   Hosted by the Kirkland Downtown Association, which ensures a vibrant community and thriving business scene around Kirkland homes for sale, the Kirkland 4th of July is a sight to behold. Kicking off at 4 p.m. on Independence Day, it features a parade and fireworks show. It's touted as the biggest one-day event in Kirkland and is a high point of everyone's year.
   
   
3. Everett's Colors of Freedom Celebration – 10410 19th Southeast #100, Everett, WA 98208
   Everett homes for sale will light up thanks to Everett's Colors of Freedom Celebration. The day-long affair begins with an eye-popping parade through the downtown area at 11 a.m., followed by a festival at famous Legion Park. The evening culminates with fireworks that sparkle over Port Gardner Bay. Organizers encourage you to bring a blanket and picnic!
   
   
4. Point Ruston Independence Day 5K –  North 37th & Vassault Street, Tacoma, WA 98421
   Time for a race! Pass by some of the best Tacoma homes for sale as you participate in the yearly Point Ruston Independence Day 5K. This fast, flat, downhill course will challenge race veterans and give newcomers a taste of our local excitement. Anyone is welcome to participate at any speed, from power walking to running. It starts at 8 a.m. sharp near Vassault Park.
   
   
5. Bellevue Four on the 4th – 10820 Northeast 10th Street Bellevue, WA 98004
   Bellevue Four on the 4th is a fun way to get exercise and meet new friends: Billed as a "dog walk and jog," it allows your canine companions to come with you for a non-competitive 4K event. After the race, there'll be music, a pet costume contest, photo booths, and vendors of all kinds. All participants receive a goodie bag. It's just a few blocks from Bellevue homes for sale.
   
   
6. Waterfront Blues Festival – 98 Southwest Naito Parkway, Portland, OR 97204
   Get a taste of the blues at beloved Tom McCall Waterfront Park, where the Waterfront Blues Festival will be returning for another year. Performances will run for four full days from July 4th to the 7th, ranging across four big stages. There'll be food, merchandise, riverboat rides, and a whole lot more. It's just one more reason to pick Portland homes for sale.
   
   
7. Oregon Z00 - 4001 Southwest Canyon Road, Portland, OR 97221
   The Oregon Zoo will honor Independence Day by offering free admission for military veterans, active military personnel and first responders (active police, firefighters and EMTs), as well as up to four family members who accompany them. Families of deployed military personnel also will be given free admission.  Buying a home in Portland means you will be part of a community that believes in giving back.
   
   
8. 70th Annual Lake Oswego Lions Club July 4th Pancake Breakfast - George Rogers Park, 611 S State St, Lake Oswego, OR 97034
   Kick off your July 4 celebration at 7:00 a.m. at the 70th Annual Lake Oswego Lions Club July 4th Pancake Breakfast.  Your breakfast menu includes all-you-can-eat of the "best pancakes west of the Mississippi," sausage, juice and live music. All proceeds from the event benefit Lions projects in the local community.
   
   
9. Star Spangled Parade and Celebration - Millenium Plaza Park, 200 1st St, Lake Oswego, OR 97034
   Start your 4th of July celebration in Lake Oswego. Begin your day at the Star Spangled Parade by watching festive floats, musical entertainment, vehicles decorated in red, white, and blue and even costumed canines march down A Avenue.  The parade finishes at Millenium Plaza Park where you'll be entertained with live music from Gospel Hooligan, see a Presentation of Colors from local Girl Scouts, and if you're hungry, why not sign up for the pie eating contest.  All the fun will be happening just minutes from Lake Oswego homes for sale.
   
   
10. Portland Craft Beer Festival - Fields Neighborhood Park, 1099 NW Overton St. Portland, OR 97209
    The Fifth Annual Portland Craft Beer Festival starts July 4 at Fields Neighborhood Park.  Travel and Leisure, Matador, and Beer Connoisseur have named Portland, as The Best Beer City in the World.  Portland is home to over 70 craft breweries.  Only Portland-area crafters are featured at the festival featuring beers, plus ciders and wine.

There's nothing else quite like the 4th of July, but there's always something to celebrate when you live around Seattle or Portland. Our local area will wow you with its outstanding arts, culture, and a flourishing economy.

Coldwell Banker Bain makes it easy to find your Pacific Northwest dream home. Contact us to get started.

Our Capitol Hill Brokers and our Seattle Lake Union Brokers live and work right here in Seattle, just like our clients and future homeowners. When we're not helping people pursue the dream of homeownership, we're enjoying all our area has to offer – including fishing.

Seattle is known for some of the best fishing in the Pacific Northwest. When you go angling around here, you can easily catch Chinook and silver salmon. Fishing reaches its first peak in mid-October through January.

That said, the opportunities here go well beyond the winter.

You'll find Chinook in Puget Sound from June through August, while silver salmon are out in force from July to September. When the salmon season closes in spring and summer, then it's time to enjoy bottom fishing with one of the many professional charter boats.

Let's take a look at some of the best places around Seattle to get a world-class fishing experience:

1. Puget Sound
   Puget Sound is legendary, giving a glimpse of pristine, protected waters sandwiched between the breathtaking Olympic Mountains. Fishing is abundant year around, and some of the best spots are only moments from the dock. There are 1,500 miles of shoreline to explore. Autumn is when you'll find anglers from all over the country visiting in pursuit of record-breaking Chinook.
   
   
   
2. Belvoir Place on Union Bay – 3659 42nd Avenue Northeast, Seattle, WA 98105
   Renowned as one of Seattle's top fishing spots, Belvoir Place offers fishing that's both fun and convenient. Nestled right on the city waterfront, you'll have your pick of spots – although Pier 86 is one of the local favorites. It boasts a 400-foot fishing pier and a wide range of fish to hook. You'll discover skate, salmon, perch, sablefish, and various others.
   
   
3. Green Lake Park – 7201 East Greenlake Drive North, Seattle, WA 98115
   Green Lake Park will tempt you with a social fishing experience just minutes from downtown. Yes, it's one of the more popular spots around, but that also makes it a great place to meet fellow anglers. Rainbow and brown trout can be found year-round at any time of the day or night. That's right: Green Lake Park will welcome you 24 hours a day.
   
   
4. Fairview Park – 2900 Fairview Avenue East, Seattle, WA 98102
   Situated in the neighborhood of Portage Bay, Fairview Park shows off its best opportunities from March through October. Because it is a smaller location, it's easily overlooked. Patient anglers often snag a winning catch of steelhead trout or migratory salmon.
   
   
5. Elliott Bay – 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101
   Elliott Bay and its associated marina deliver iconic fishing for visitors of all ages. It may be the best place in the city to introduce youngsters to the joys of fishing. Plus, you can get all the bait and equipment you need right at the pro shop. Between Pier 57 and Pier 59, you can test your wits against squid, Dungeness crab, rockfish, halibut, sturgeon, and (of course) salmon.
   
   
6. Lake Washington – 5895 Lake Washington Boulevard South, Seattle, WA 98118
   The state's second largest lake, Lake Washington is a 20-mile long landmark a short distance east of downtown Seattle. It's open all year long and is dotted with prime fishing locations. The Reverend Murphy Fishing Pier, not far from Seward Park, might be its best-kept secret: It will greet you with a lovely fishing pier and one of the best Mt. Rainier views.
   
   
7. 365 Charters – Throughout the Seattle, WA Area
   An award-winning local charter company, 365 Charters provides a fresh, exciting sport fishing experience. You can choose to fish out on Puget Sound, the Skykomish River, the Snohomish River, Skagit River, Cowlitz River, or the famous Columbia River.
   
   
8. Adventure Charters – Throughout the Seattle, WA Area
   If you want to enjoy the best in river and bottom fishing around Seattle, then Adventure Charters may be your pick. A family-owned Seattle fishing charter, it's known for a fun atmosphere and clean, modern boats. Tours can last up to six hours.
   
   

Fishing is only the very beginning of what awaits you here in beautiful Seattle, WA. With help from our experts, it'll be easier than ever for you to find the home of your dreams, secure the funding you need, and get to closing day without a hitch. It's that easy.

If you're looking for the experienced choice in Seattle real estate, our team is here for you. We combine years of local expertise with unbeatable customer service. Our advice will help you make informed decisions every step of the way.

Contact us to learn more about the best Seattle homes for sale.

Father's Day is almost here! The Brokers in our Portland Uptown and Portland West offices invite you to give Dad a special day this year by exploring everything Portland has to offer.

Getting around Portland for Father's Dad is especially easy thanks to the city's bike sharing initiative, Biketown. You can get virtually anywhere throughout the downtown area without having to use a car or public transportation. There are 125 bike stations throughout the city.

Let's look at some of the best ways to celebrate dad in Portland this year.

1. Portland Japanese Garden – 611 Southwest Kingston Ave, Portland, OR 97205
   Portland Japanese Garden is a unique local attraction. Spanning a 5.5-acre space, it has fascinating landscapes and amenities to enjoy. You'll see the iconic waterfall and take in a beautiful mountain view. Plus, there are group classes and lectures to attend. Stop into the teahouse for a sip of traditional Japanese green tea before you go.
   
   
2. Oregon Zoo – 4001 Southwest Canyon Road, Portland, OR 97221
   Forty-six acres of fun await at Oregon Zoo, one of the top zoos in the region. With dozens of animal residents ranging from the bald eagle to the southern sea otter, there's always someone new to meet here. Breathtaking exhibits run the gamut from the African savanna to the chimpanzee enclosure and the ever-popular Polar Passage, home of the polar bears.
   
   
3. Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) – 1945 Southeast Water Ave, Portland, OR 97214
   OMSI is a leading STEM museum known for its remarkable planetarium. In addition to all kinds of exciting educational programming, there are also musical shows including Laser Pink Floyd and Laser Daft Punk. Dads will love the opportunity to go on the daily submarine tour, which lets you peer through a periscope and climb a bunk in the crew quarters.
   
   
4. Washington Park – 4033 Southwest Canyon Road, Portland, OR 97221
   Washington Park is filled with gardens and museums, a zoo, and even a forest. You could get lost here for a whole week of Father's Days! The free shuttle service beginning in early April makes it easy to get around to all the nearby attractions. On top of the Oregon Zoo, you can visit the World Forestry Center, the Hoyt Arboretum, and the Portland Japanese Garden.
   
   
5. Portland Saturday Market – 2 Southwest Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204
   Welcoming guests on Sunday as well, the Portland Saturday Market has been recognized nationwide as the largest open-air arts and crafts market in continuous operation anywhere throughout the United States. There are dozens of different shops to visit. No matter what your dad is into, you're certain to find something he will love here.
   
   
6. Voodoo Doughnut – 22 Southwest 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204
   Voodoo Doughnut is a 24-hour cash-only shop you won't want to overlook. It's cheered throughout the city for its incredible flavors. If dad's been watching his waistline, it's an excellent time to celebrate with the likes of Graham Slam, the Bacon Maple Bar, and the famous Portland Cream. There are crowds at lunch, so consider checking it out during off hours.
   
   
7. The Pearl District
   Home to many of Portland's top bars and restaurants, the Pearl District sprawls out across more than 300 acres. Amid dozens of vendors, you'll find unique bits of Portland culture. It's not far from Powell's Book City and some of the best places to have Father's Day dinner. Plus, there are events every single week that cater to a whole spectrum of interests.
   
   
8. Oaks Amusement Park – 98 Southwest Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204
   For a family-friendly Father's Day, you can't go wrong with the Oaks Amusement Park. With its full selection of classic carnival rides, roller skating, and mini-golf, it's a local institution. One of the longest-running parks of its kind anywhere, it offers catered birthday parties and other events. Maybe you'll be celebrating Father's Day with a corn dog and cotton candy!
   
   
9. Portland Underground Tour – 120 NW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97209
   Known locally as the Shanghai Tunnels, the Portland Underground Tour is a peek into a lost world that reflects Portland's rich history. With tours available since 1992, the nonprofit behind the action is dedicated to revealing the past in a way that's fun, exciting and informative. Dads and kids alike will enjoy the opportunity to uncover hidden secrets.

Contact us today to start your search for Portland homes for sale.

Tacoma is well-known for its lively culture, creative and friendly residents, and sophisticated options for dining, shopping, and nightlife. If you're searching for Tacoma homes for sale, you might wonder where to start when exploring first.

Since our jobs give us plenty of opportunities to learn about the area's hottest attractions, our Brokers offer this short list of nine things to do in Tacoma on a Saturday. 

1. Early-Morning Breakfast at Shakabrah Java: 2618 6th Ave. Tacoma, WA 98406
   Known as one of the best breakfast spots in town, Shakabrah Java is the perfect place for you to start your Tacoma adventure. It's busy on the weekends, so you'll want to get there bright and early. We promise that the giant pancakes, homemade corned beef hash, and great coffee make it well worth the early-morning alarm. 
   
   
2. Spend A Few Hours Shopping on 6th Avenue: 6th Ave. Tacoma, WA 98406
   Once you've finished breakfast, spend a few hours browsing the shops on 6th Avenue. While we recommend you explore them all, some of our favorites include Cresent Moon Gifts, 9 Lives Vintage Wares, and Turntable Treasures and House of Records.
   
   
3. Grab a Mid-Morning Pick-Me-Up at Legendary Donuts: 2602 6th Ave. Tacoma, WA 98406
   Our Brokers love making a run to Legendary Donuts for a mid-day pick-me-up, and we suggest you do the same! Stop by and grab one of the delicious concoctions that are handmade there every day.
   With exciting combinations like the Captain Jack Sparrow chocolate donut made with rum-infused frosting, and toppings including espresso beans, gummy worms, or even Captain Crunch cereal, you'll quickly understand what all the hype is about.
   
   
4. Take In a Show at the Pantages Theater: 901 Broadway, Tacoma, WA 98402
   The Pantages Theater, part of the Broadway Center for the Performing Arts, as a new name, "Tacoma Arts Live." As a non-profit organization located in Tacoma, their goal is to energize the local community with live performances. Make Tacoma Arts Live a part of your next Saturday by attending one of their upcoming performances.
   
   
   
   
   
5. Enjoy Lunch at Shake, Shake, Shake: 124 N Tacoma Ave. Tacoma, WA 98403
   For a casual lunch in a super-fun setting, head over to Shake, Shake, Shake for delicious burgers, hot dogs, and fries. Make sure you save enough room so you can have one of their delicious shakes. They come in a host of unique flavors, and if you're feeling feisty, you can even indulge in a famous boozy shake! 
   
   
   
   
6. Walk across the Chihuly Bridge of Glass: Bridge of Glass, Tacoma, WA 98402
   The Chihuly Bridge of Glass is an addition to the Tacoma Museum of Glass and provides a pedestrian bridge to downtown Tacoma.  Just perfect for a Saturday walk in the city, the bridge crosses over major rail lines and links the Museum of Glass to Union Station and the State History Museum.
   
   
7. Head Over to Happy Hour at Bob's Java Jive: 2102 S Tacoma Way Tacoma, WA 98409
   A day in Tacoma wouldn't be complete without a visit to the giant teapot-turned-dive-bar known as Bob's Java Jive. Here you'll find cheap drinks, friendly locals, and an unforgettable good time. This iconic building has been standing since 1927 and is a must-see for Tacoma visitors and new residents. 
   
   
8. Dinner at Mandolin Sushi & Steak House: 3923 S 12th St, Tacoma, WA 98405
   After a full day of taking in the best of Tacoma, you'll be ready to sit down and enjoy a nice dinner. Our Brokers suggest you give Mandolin Sushi & Steak House a try as one of the last stops on your Saturday Tacoma adventure itinerary.  Start with some sushi from the extensive menu, then dive into a teriyaki entree, a hot stone pot, or a bento box combo. 
   
   
9. Round-the-Clock Fun at Tower Lanes: 6323 6th Ave. Tacoma, WA  98406
   If you have any energy left after this amazing day, you can't go wrong with a stop at Tower Lanes. It doesn't matter what time you arrive since this bowling alley is open 24-hours a day! If bowling isn't your thing, you can also enjoy playing mini golf or billiards, or spend some time in the arcade or at the bar. 
   
   

Let Us Help You Find Your Tacoma Home

It's easy to see there's no shortage of exciting things to do in Tacoma, and this list is just the beginning! If you're looking for a trendy hotspot to call home, you've found it. 

At Coldwell Banker Bain, we have our finger on the pulse of all of Tacoma's best neighborhoods. When you're ready to start exploring your options, contact us. We'll show you how easy home-buying can be with our team on your side.

If you preferred means of travel is on two wheels, buying one of our Portland homes for sale just might be for you.  Portland has long been known as a city full of people who care about the environment and love to spend their time outdoors. Thanks to the innovative Biketown Bike Share Program, open-air travel is now easily accessible to all residents! 

Our Portland Uptown Brokers love spending their free time biking around the city, and we're sure you will too!

Haven't heard of Biketown yet? No worries! Here's everything you need to know about how the program works and some tips for where to go on your next cycling adventure. 

Biketown: Giving You More to Explore 

Biketown is a city-wide program that includes 1,000 bikes and 125 area stations. Users can choose to either pay as they go or sign up for an inexpensive monthly or annual membership.

When you're ready to take a bike for a ride, you simply enter your code on the bike lock, hop on, and head out. When you're through with your ride, take the bike back to one of the stations, re-lock it, and you're done! 

Because there are stations all across the city, users can easily combine Biketown, public transit, and walking to get to wherever they need to be. Whether you want to ride to the farmer's market, get in some exercise while checking out Portland homes for sale, or enjoy one of the area's great bike trails, Biketown is the way to go! 

In honor of National Bike Month, we recommend you give Biketown a try and spend a day visiting some of the area's best bike trails. Not sure where to start? Check out this list of our favorites! 

1. Willamette River Loop
   With some of the city's best views, the 30-mile Willamette River Loop will take you through Portland's south side and offers views of Lake Oswego and the three bridges crossing the Willamette River. The route is mostly flat, making for a relaxing ride, and there are some great breweries nearby! Want to enjoy some of the same gorgeous views without such a long ride? Opt for the six-mile route along the Willamette Greenway Bike Trail instead. 
   
   
   
   
   
2. Sellwood Bridge Loop
   If you're in the mood for an easy, relaxing ride, we recommend the 11-mile Sellwood Bridge Loop.  This ride offers several views of the Willamette River and is mostly on bike paths with just a few street intersections mixed in.  This is a fairly popular path, so expect to see plenty of other bicyclists and pedestrians. Short and sweet, the Sellwood Bridge Loop is the perfect ride to enjoy before heading off for a day of shopping or Sunday brunch with your friends. 
   
   
   
   
   
3. Mountain View Trail
   Powell Butte Nature Park is a great place for nature enthusiasts to spend the day. With the gorgeous views of Mount Hood, you can't beat the bike ride along the 20-mile paved path known as the Mountain View Trail. There are also several other simple trails, each offering the opportunity to explore the park while enjoying grassy nooks and open fields. 
   
   
   
   
   
4. Southeast Neighborhoods
   Possibly one of the most interesting rides on this list, the 13-mile Southeast Neighborhoods route begins at the iconic Salmon Street Fountain, then winds through some of the best historic neighborhoods in Southeast Portland. The homes here have plenty of charm, and you'll love riding through the tree-lined streets and off-street paths with occasional views of the river.  This route is extremely popular with both bikers and runners, so expect to share the roads with plenty of fellow outdoor enthusiasts. 
   
   
5. Gateway Green
   Arguably one of the city's coolest parks, Gateway Green in East Portland is literally an urban island. Since it's nestled between I-84 and I-106, you'll have to navigate your way along the I-205 multi-use path to get there, but it's well worth it.  The bike trails here are a mountain biker's dream. They include a skills area where you'll find a jump line and pump track, a gravity area, and plenty of single-track trails. 
   
   
6. Portland's West Hills
   When you're ready to take on a true challenge, our Portland West Brokers recommend trying your hand at tackling Portland's West Hills. This thigh-burning climb is only 15-miles long, but it guaranteed to push your limits.  While on the climb, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of both the mountains and downtown Portland. We promise you'll feel exhausted and starving after this ride, so plan to meet some friends at one of the local breweries when you're done! 

Whether you enjoy outdoor adventures, an exceptional dining scene, shopping, or nightlife, you'll find it in Portland. In fact, this is more than just a city, it's truly an experience!

There are so many things to love about living here, and we can't wait to show you around. Contact us today to get started!