It’s hard to believe that summer is quickly coming to an end, and many summer vacation plans may have been foiled during these warm months due to COVID and travel restrictions. But it’s not too late to safely get out and enjoy the weather while we have it. With Labor Day right around the corner, we’ve put together a safe, mindful and fun getaway guide to some of our favorite local spots -- but please, remember to wear your mask!

• Hike or bike the Olympic Peninsula
  •  While Seattle might seem a bit crowded, the Western edges of our state are home to some of the most beautiful coastlines and forests. Even better, there are a plethora of hikes and trails in the Olympic National Park where you can stay socially distant from others and enjoy the scenery. 
• Be a tourist in your neighborhood
  •  It may feel like you know your neighborhood well, but planning out a day of exploration in your city may lead you to new and exciting frontiers. If a walk to explore doesn’t grab your attention, take your adventure to the water on a kayak, paddleboard, or Duffy boat-- rentals are available on Lake Union at the Northwest Outdoor Center and The Electric Boat Co.
• Support small and local businesses during your adventure
  •  After your hike or walk, support local businesses that need you more than ever right now. We recommend Silver City Brewery, located in Bremerton and a mere 2.8 miles from the Leber’s Lane trailhead. Leber’s Lane services a web of over 7 miles of beautiful views of the Kitsap landscape, including Dickerson Falls and Zach’s Lookout. The Silver City is the winner of last year's Mid-Sized Brewery of the Year Award at the Great American Beer Festival and will not disappoint -- we guarantee it.
• Focus on self-care and relaxation to reset before fall
  • This could look like unplugging from work, technology or your phone and picking up that book you meant to read all summer. Or ordering takeout from your favorite restaurant, enjoying a glass of wine and putting on a face mask (the skincare kind).
• Visit the Puget Sound Islands
  • Whether it be Bainbridge, Vashon, or Whidbey, the islands in the Emerald City’s backyard provide lots of room for exploration and vacation time. A quick drive and ferry ride are all it takes to reach spacious beaches and uplifting small-town charm.

We’d love to hear how you’re planning to spend Labor Day weekend this year. Share with us on Instagram and Twitter!