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Image via Flickr by Osajus There's a certain amount of gratification that comes with driving a luxury automobile. From glass panel roofs to upholstered leather seats, these vehicles feature some of the most exquisite materials. You want to keep your premium automobile looking like new. But, just how do you take care of this classy car? Use these simple solutions to keep your luxury vehicle in tip-top shape. Start With a Wash A luxury automobile is an investment in yourself. It makes sense that since you've chosen to spend this kind of cash on a car, you're going to do everything to protect it. You could treat it just like an average car and send it through the car wash at the gas station, but that feels almost wrong, doesn't it? Hire a professional detailer or better yet, do the job yourself. Set a goal to wash your car every week. Start with the body, then hose out the fender wells and undercarriage, taking care to remove dirt and road salt. more Use a Clay Bar Heading out on the open road in your premium set of wheels is truly one of life's greatest pleasures. All this excitement comes with responsibility too. Protect your car's finish from microscopic dust, and other abrasives kicked up by the road. Those particles attach themselves to your finish and eventually cause scratches that dull your car's shiny surface. After you wash away all the dirt, give your ride a good wipe down with a clay bar. Use it to remove tiny contaminants that linger on the surface of your vehicle. Polish and Wax the Finish Now, let's move on to a hand-wax for a showroom shine. While you may be tempted to skip this tedious step, proper polishing removes scratches and buffs any imperfections that dull your car's finish. This step is especially important for luxury cars, where appearance is everything. When taking care of the exterior of your luxury car, choose your products wisely. Look for buffing balls made from Italian viscose fibers for superior performance. They don't overheat or cake up like foam buffers do. When it comes to waxing and protecting your finish, a glosser makes the work a whole lot easier. Use a microfiber cloth and get rid of tough-to-remove road grime on your car's exterior. Clean the Interior Detailing your luxury car's interior is just as crucial as waxing its finish. You paid a premium for those genuine leather seats and real wood accents. Make sure they look good and last as long as possible with proper cleaning. Use a clean microfiber cloth to dust your car's interior surfaces. Wipe down the dashboard, navigation screens, air vents, and upholstery. It's also the perfect way to apply the leather cleaner and conditioner of your choice. Luxury car care requires a certain level of dedication and attention to detail, and these simple tasks will make your car last longer. Treat your vehicle with the respect it deserves and keep it in showroom condition all the time. https://www.flickr.com/photos/osajus/42789257945/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Osajus

Image via Flickr by Seattle City Council If you love the city of Seattle and you love food, you'll want to try out some of these tasty, educational, and experiential food tours. You'll learn about the city, the culture, and the specialties in this city of famous chefs and coffee beans. Gourmet Seattle Tour The Gourmet Seattle Tour is 2.5 hours with a minimum of 12 tastings. You'll experience classic Seattle but will also try food from an Iron Chef winner and James Beard Award honorees. While enjoying the flavors of the city, you'll be enlightened with the history of Seattle as well as an insight into the current eccentric culture of the area. Starting at Third Avenue and Lenora Street, your group will tour parts of Belltown, downtown Seattle, and the world-famous Pike Place Market, visiting six restaurants, artisan shops, and foodie hot spots. more Each tour starts at 1:30, 2, or 2:30 p.m. The price is $75.99 per person Monday through Thursday or $78.99 per person Friday through Sunday. To buy tickets, you can access the Savor Seattle Tours website and make your purchase online. Early Access VIP Tour of Pike Place Market Pike Place Market is an icon for both Seattle and the state of Washington. Over 30,000 people come through the Market on a given day. The Early Access VIP Tour of Pike Place Market opens the doors early just for you and your 11 best friends at 8, 8:30, or 9 a.m., before the day's rush begins. Starting at Western Avenue and Stewart Street, your group will enjoy the hum of the Market in the morning, have one-on-one time with merchants, and might even catch a flying fish! Sign up for this family-friendly two-hour tour of a classic Seattle favorite online at Savor Seattle Tours. Pricing is $55.99 per person Monday through Thursday or $58.99 Friday through Sunday. Gift certificates are also available. Chocolate Indulgence Tours While Seattle is famous for its coffee, the cocoa bean is also incredibly popular. Chocolate Indulgence Tours will answer the following questions: Why is Seattle home to 50+ chocolatiers? Which cookie was named Best Dessert by Seattle Magazine? Where does chocolate come from? What's the best way to savor chocolate? Your group will taste coconut cream pie by famed Seattle chef Tom Douglas, as well as indulgent sweets from Cupcake Royale, Dahlia Bakery, The Confectional, and Fran's Chocolates. This family-friendly tour is priced at $52.99 per person Monday through Thursday and $55.99 Friday through Sunday. Meet at First Avenue and Pine Street at either 11:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m. Tickets and gift certificates can be purchased online at the website for Savor Seattle Food Tours. Whether you're a self-proclaimed foodie or just love to taste new dishes, these Seattle food tours have a variety of flavors, dishes, and personalities and are well worth your time and energy. With a wide range from seafood to chocolate, there's plenty for even the most discerning palate to enjoy. These award-winning chefs and entrepreneurs are happy to share their latest creations with you. https://www.flickr.com/photos/seattlecitycouncil/5555895401/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Seattle City Council

The Pacific Northwest is known for the beauty of the outdoors. Burien, Washington, is no exception. The city has allotted more than 365 acres of parks and open space for community enjoyment, relaxation, and family gatherings. Our top Burien parks are both beautiful and have amazing views. Seahurst Beach Park With 182 acres of park and three-quarters of a mile of beach right on the Puget Sound, Seahurst Beach Park is Burien's largest park, featuring scenic views of the Olympic Mountains, local islands, ships, and killer whales. With saltwater beaches and grassy play areas, Seahurst Beach Park is a peaceful getaway from work, traffic, and the hustle and bustle of everyday business. Showcasing a variety of picnic locations both covered and uncovered as well as a dog walking trail Seahurst Beach Park can be your getaway. So, stop by Huckleberry Square Restaurant, take a relaxing stroll, or head over to Bistro Baffi Italian Cuisine for a nice meal to carry over to the best tables at the park. more Burien Skateboard Park Burien Skateboard Park is a 7,400-square-foot cement skate park is located within the Community Center Annex Park, featuring a complement of features including a Skate Pool, Fun-box, a short Snake Run and a complete set of rails as well as an adjacent open lawn with both picnic tables and benches. Just down the street is Hans' Sausage & Delicatessen for a quick meal while you break from skating or watching the kids perfect their skills. Chelsea Park Chelsea Park is a small neighborhood park on Southwest 137th Street, a block east of Ambaum Boulevard. This quaint park has a softball and baseball field, as well as a soccer field, for community use. It also has a full playground with equipment for the kids to burn off their extra energy, as well as a view of Mount Rainier to the southeast. The Countryside Cafe is nearby to grab a sandwich and some drinks for your picnic. Mathison Park Mathison Park in Burien is a 5.3-acre neighborhood park on South 146th Street. Just two blocks south of the highest point in Burien, the park sits at an elevation of 453 feet. The paved trails and playgrounds all have spectacular views of Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and SeaTac Airport. Watch the takeoffs and landings while you enjoy your takeout from local favorite Ivar's, a seafood restaurant. Enjoy the sunset and the water while munching on your fish and chips or watch the planes while you enjoy a good bowl of chowder. Burien, Washington, is teeming with parks and scenic locations that will help you relax, entertain your family, and find peace in your surroundings, all within minutes of home. Choose your location based on what you'd like to do. These parks offer playgrounds, picnic areas, athletic fields, water access or water features, skate parks, dog parks, trails and walking parks, and basketball courts. Maybe you just want to enjoy the scenery of the Pacific Northwest in Burien. Go on the hikes. Enjoy the views. Take full advantage of the Puget Sound and Mount Rainier. With some of the more scenic locations in the U.S., you can spend quality time with your family or your loved one while doing all these things.  Whatever your choice of outdoor activity, Burien parks are equipped to entertain and offer you a great time. https://www.flickr.com/photos/forestservicenw/23851145671/sizes/l Image via Flickr by U.S. Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region

The downtown Seattle waterfront has some awesome views over the Puget Sound and West Seattle. It's a great place to explore or to just stroll along. You'll find places to sit and admire the views, cafes, and restaurants serving everything from snacks to fine dining, and plenty of shops and galleries for retail therapy. Here are some of the must-see spots to visit and things to do. Pike Place Market No trip to Seattle is complete without a visit to the Pike Place Market. The market was founded in 1907 to provide fresh local produce for the citizens of Seattle. Today, it's a bustling place where you can admire the displays of locally caught fresh fish, the vibrant colors of the fruit and vegetables, and the impressive cuts of meat in the farmers market. In the crafts market, which has been operating for over 40 years, you will discover many stalls of unique locally handcrafted goods. Fashion and more accessories, pottery and glasswork, paintings and sculptures all feature, as well as specialty items such as musical instruments. The Olympic Sculpture Park A part of the Seattle Art Museum, the Olympic Sculpture Park features large sculptures and installations. Wander along the zigzag paths and enjoy the impressive artwork, much of which is fun, funky, and downright weird. The park also offers superb views of the Olympic Mountains, Elliott Bay, and the Space Needle. Admission is free. Seattle Aquarium The Seattle Aquarium is located at Pier 59 and gives you the opportunity to discover the species whose natural habitat is in the Pacific Ocean and the Puget Sound in particular. The cool exhibits include varieties of fish, seals and otters, and invertebrates such as starfish and anemones. The largest exhibit is an underwater dome with a 360-degree view of the sharks, skates, sturgeon, schools of salmon, and more. On the serious side, you can learn about the conservation of species through interactive exhibits. Take a Boat Trip On the waterfront, you'll find a variety of boat trips on offer. Choose a tour of the harbor to see the different types of shipping, a scenic tour of the Puget Sound, or pass through the locks into Lake Union. If you're more adventurous, you could take a whale-watching trip. Also available are scenic dinner or brunch cruises, some with entertainment included. The Seattle Great Wheel For an awesome view of the city, take a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel on Pier 57. The climate-controlled closed cabins can seat up to six adults. The ride takes around 15 minutes and offers amazing views of Elliott Bay, downtown Seattle, West Seattle, the Olympic Mountains, and surrounding scenery. After dark at the weekends, the wheel provides a stunning light show, with more than 500,000 LED lights programmed to create a beautiful display. For an even more special experience, you can book a private VIP cabin with leather seating and a stereo system. These are just a few of the attractions of the Seattle waterfront, and there is so much more on offer that it's worth exploring to discover what's there. Image via Pixabay

After a long winter, it's great to have some spring events to look forward to. You don't have to travel far from Burien to find some fun and exciting things happening. Seattle Cheese and Meat Festival — April 20 Located at the beautiful Block 41 venue in downtown Seattle, the Cheese and Meat Festival offers the chance to sample local artisan products as well as international food and drink. A tasting ticket gains you access to a tasting session which lasts for two hours. On entry, you will receive a small charcuterie board and a tasting glass which are yours to keep. The event also features two seminars at 10.45 a.m. and 2.30 p.m., the first on cheese, chocolate, and beer and the second on farm-to-table and slow food. Tickets for the seminars can be bought separately, or you can purchase a super pass which gives you access to all tasting sessions and seminars. more EGGStravaganza — April 20 One for the kids, the EGGStravaganza is an Easter egg hunt held at the Des Moines Beach Park. The event is from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. and will include prizes, crafts, and Easter bunny photo opportunities. Admission is $5 per child. Burien Carnival and Flea Market — May 2 to 5 The carnival is coming to town and will be held in the beautiful 5-acre Puget Sound Park in north Burien. The carnival will feature entertainment, rides, and games for the whole family. In 2019, for the first time, there will be a flea market at the carnival where you can browse the booths for a bargain. The event will be open from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday and Friday and noon to 10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Day passes can be purchased for unlimited rides all day. Seattle Bacon and Beer Classic — May 4 Head up to T-Mobile Park in Seattle for the sixth annual Bacon and Beer Classic. You'll find more than 100 craft beers and over 30 bacon dishes created by local chefs. The entertainment includes music, lawn games, a bacon eating contest, blind beer tasting, and much more. The event is on from noon to 10 p.m. and you can buy all-inclusive afternoon or evening tickets for endless bacon and beer tastings. Taste of Burien 2019 — May 22 Previously known as Burien Bites, the Taste of Burien features restaurants offering food and drink samples for you to try. The event will be held in the Merrill Gardens Banquet Room, and it gives you the opportunity to taste the food from restaurants you haven't been to before as well as your favorite places. To add a little excitement, all visitors will be asked to vote on three categories — Best Pour, Best Bite, and Best Sweet. The competition encourages some fun and friendly rivalry. The event runs from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and admission is $20 which gets you unlimited taste items. Beverages can be purchased separately. As spring approaches, head out to these events for some fun entertainment. Image via cjorsinger | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

The Seattle area is full of fun things to do, but one of the best ways to experience local culture is to attend an event. Especially in the spring, the community is active and fun festivals are in full bloom. Check out these springtime events coming up in and near Seattle. Seattle Restaurant Week If you want to experience some of the best and most defining foods of the city, attend Seattle Restaurant Week this April. The event, which will run from April 7-18, gives diners access to expansive menu options at a lower price. It costs $35 for special three-course meals and $20 for two-course lunches during Seattle Restaurant Week. Over 165 restaurants will be preparing food. Look for participating restaurants throughout the city this spring. more Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival There's no better way to ring in the spring season than by experiencing Seattle's rich natural beauty. If this sounds like a good idea to you, the Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival is a can't-miss activity. This event will run from April 26-28. Live performances, visual arts, and hands-on activities will be available, providing entertainment for all ages. The Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival will take place at the Fisher Pavilion in the cultural heart of Seattle. Look for it between the Seattle Center and Chihuly Garden and Glass at 305 Harrison St. Northwest Folklife Festival The Northwest Folklife Festival is a fantastic way to learn more about Seattle's roots. The event, which will take place from May 24-29, will feature numerous events showcasing the indigenous culture of the Pacific Northwest. Over 5,000 performers are scheduled for the event. This festival will be held at the Seattle Center. A $10 donation per person or a $20 donation per family is suggested. Seattle International Film Festival The 45th annual Seattle International Film Festival will take place this year from May 16 through June 9. During this springtime event, you can watch a range of films or upgrade your pass to see secret screenings and attend exclusive parties. The festival showcases productions at SIFF Cinema Uptown, SIFF Cinema Egyptian, and SIFF Film Center in Seattle. Ticket prices vary depending on the passes and/or package you'd like to purchase. University District Street Fair For a chance to interact with local vendors and experience the culture that makes Seattle such a unique place, go to the University District Street Fair this year. A wide variety of food and drinks will be available, and hundreds of artisans will be performing and selling their goods throughout the day. There will also be musical performances, a beer garden, and other activities. University District Street Fair will be held from May 18-19. This is a free festival that takes place annually along University Way NE in Seattle. There's never an excuse to be bored in Seattle, especially with the abundance of community activities planned throughout the year. Mark some of these springtime gatherings on your calendar and look forward to connecting with local culture in a truly unique way. Image via Lisa Borbély | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

Burien is one of several charming cities on the outskirts of Seattle, making it a fantastic place to explore some of the best attractions throughout the Pacific Northwest. Whether you want to head north into the striking metropolis or head east into some of North America's best forests and mountains, you're spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do. These are a few spots worth visiting for Burien natives and visitors alike. The Museum of Pop Culture Seattle is known for its unique culture, and there's no better place to experience it than at this museum attraction. From video games to music, sports, and more, the Museum of Pop Culture documents some of the city's best contributions to local and national art and more. more The museum is at 325 Fifth Avenue North, which is at the foot of the Space Needle and just a short walk from the Chihuly Gardens and Glass — another highly recommended spot in Seattle's most iconic neighborhood. You can visit the Museum of Pop Culture daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pier 66 Pier 66 is another excellent spot to soak up Seattle culture. The waterfront landmark is loaded with shops, restaurants, and attractions, and since the area is so walkable it's easy to spend an entire afternoon in this part of the city. Just across the street, you'll find a range of hotel accommodations and parks, and a short drive down Alaskan Way will get you to Seattle Aquarium and the famous Pike Place Market. Blake Island Marine State Park If you prefer a calming afternoon away from city crowds, plan a trip to Blake Island Marine State Park. Accessible only by boat, this island park is popular for camping, fishing, boating, and hiking. Plus, you'll be treated to gorgeous views of the Seattle skyline and Washington's mountains. Tiger Mountain State Forest For those who'd rather skip the ferry ride or want to get lost in a more expansive part of the state, head east to visit Tiger Mountain State Forest. This huge, secluded area spans nearly 14,000 acres and has miles of trails that are perfect for hiking, bike riding, and horseback riding. The trails are hugged with lush greenery, and the park has a few waterfalls you can visit. Dogs are allowed if you keep them on a leash. Museum of History and Industry The Museum of History and Industry is another must for people who are interested in local culture. The attraction documents life in Seattle and the Puget Sound and is known for a few unique exhibits, like the iconic Rainier Beer “R,” showcasing life in the Pacific Northwest. The museum is at 860 Terry Avenue North in Seattle. It's open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Pacific Northwest is loaded with fun things to do, especially throughout the Burien area. Add a few of these attractions to your itinerary the next time you're visiting this part of Washington or just looking for something to do near Seattle. Image via Tiffany Arnim | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

From sugar-coated desserts to rich bread and pastries, the best bakeries in Seattle know how to please your taste buds with the tastiest tarts and treats. From notable shops to lesser-known gems, finding a spot to enjoy your next sweet and savory delights is just a simple search away. In fact, here are four of Seattle's top bakeries and where to find them. Bakery Nouveau Bakery Nouveau has three locations across Seattle, including Capitol Hill, West Seattle, and Burien. This popular patisserie is open daily to visitors who are interested in sampling the shop's classic creations and seasonal selections. It also has an award-winning pastry chef to back its reputation and was voted the Readers' Choice for Best Bakery five years in a row by Seattle magazine. Here you'll find handmade bread fermented to perfection, including sourdough, flaxseed, and artisan bread such as ciabatta, focaccia, and baguette. more You can also choose your favorite from a menu of tender-crusted tarts, custom and seasonal cakes, handcrafted chocolates, Parisian-style macarons, and fresh lunch pairings stuffed with the finest meats, cheeses, and veggies around. A la Mode Pies Featured in The Seattle Times on several occasions, A la Mode Pies is definitely the place to be for delicious desserts in Puget Sound. You'll find it in two locations, one in West Seattle and the other in Phinney Ridge. Both cafes offer a menu of pies to order online with pick-up or door delivery available after 24 hours. Each whole pie sits at 9 inches in diameter and features a variety of fillings and toppings. Enjoy flavors such as Mexican chocolate mousse, apple and ginger pear, and star-spangled sour cherry, and consider trying the Pie Babies and LolliPies on a stick. Want to bake your own yummy pie? A la Mode offers pie-making classes on Tuesdays from 7–9 p.m. Raised Doughnuts There's nothing quite like a fluffy doughnut paired with sweet toppings to make your taste buds happy. Raised Doughnuts on 23rd Avenue offers just that, specializing in daily and seasonal pastries that are each hand-prepared, fried to a golden shade, and glazed just right. Flavors rotate monthly, but options for January include mango mochi, burnt sugar and orange, and toasted coconut. Or sample some of the daily classics, such as a doughnut bar decorated with chocolate or maple frosting, an apple fritter topped with fried apple chunks, or a gluten-free mochi doughnut made with rice flour. Piroshky Piroshky Bringing authentic Russian recipes to Pike Place Market is Piroshky Piroshky, famous for its handheld pies baked with flaky crusts and stuffed with fruits, meats, or veggies. No matter your choice of piroshki, you'll find freshness in each bite and a blend of European and local flavors that make this shop a true international delight. You can choose from sweet options such as a marzipan roll with housemade almond paste, a cream cheese vatrushka topped with berries, and a glazed cinnamon cardamon braid. Plus, you can go for a meaty piroshki such as chicken curry and rice or a veggie-friendly dish with ingredients such as cabbage, mushrooms, and potatoes. If you're in the mood for a delicious, doughy confection, Seattle has just the patisserie for you. Stop by these local bakeries and enjoy your fill of the finest sweets and savory treats in the Pacific Northwest. Image via Edwin Tee | Licensed by CC BY-ND 2.0

The largest city in Washington, Seattle is home to an assortment of interesting landmarks designed to attract tourists, including the Space Needle and Olympic Sculpture Park. The gorgeous coastal views of Puget Sound also delightfully pair with Seattle's diverse museums, many of which offer seasonal showcases to entice the curious mind. Here are three of these top exhibits we recommend catching in spring. The Vikings Begin The Vikings of early Scandinavia hailed from countries such as Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, carrying with them a rich history filled with stories of conquest, settlement, and social hierarchies. They were also the first Europeans to establish communities in North America, and despite popular belief, they weren't simply known for raiding. You can find out more about them at "The Vikings Begin" exhibit at Seattle's Nordic Museum until April 14, 2019. more All the era-specific artifacts on display come from the Gustavianum museum at Sweden's Uppsala University and include interesting archeological gems dating back more than 1,300 years, including elegantly adorned weaponry such as helmets, swords, and spearheads. Gravesite excavations have also uncovered ancient accessories, including a bracelet embellished with glass beads and a female figurehead etched from animal bone. With My Own Eyes The Holocaust was the genocide of two-thirds of the European Jewish population as well as other civilians and prisoners of war during Adolf Hitler's reign in Nazi Germany during World War II. "Diary of a Young Girl" details life in hiding during the time; Anne Frank's memoir, as well as the testimonies of Holocaust victims and survivors, is the focus of the "With My Own Eyes" exhibit at the Henry and Sandra Friedman Holocaust Center for Humanity. Currently undergoing renovations, the showcase is expected to reopen on Jan. 6, 2019, and continue well into the spring as a permanent museum exhibit. Features include an Anne Frank annex with an enlarged diary replica, an Eternal Light memorial, Reflection Wall, and various photos providing a glimpse of the war's impact on these individuals during this dark time in European history. Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has done wonders in the field of space exploration since its 1958 inauguration. One of its most notable missions was the 1969 Apollo 11 spaceflight that became the first moon landing. The spacecraft launched from Cape Kennedy with crew members Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins in the Apollo 11 command module Columbia. Armstrong and Aldrin successfully landed on the moon in the lunar module Eagle, spending 21 hours and 36 minutes on the surface before returning to Columbia and traveling safely back to Earth. To commemorate the mission's 50th anniversary, The Museum of Flight will host an exhibit, appropriately named "Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission" on its main campus from April 13 to Sept. 2, 2019. This showcase will offer a 3-D tour of the historic Columbia spacecraft and offer an up-close look at artifacts from the Smithsonian Institution, including star navigation tools and a pair of gloves and helmet worn by Aldrin during the expedition. If there's one thing residents and visitors can look forward to in Seattle in the spring, it's the prospect of visiting these top museums with exciting exhibits suitable for the whole family. Image via Aaron Headly | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

Olympic National Park covers almost a million acres and has incredible diversity. Old-growth rainforests, over 70 miles of coastline, and glacier-capped mountains are all there to be experienced. With fewer visitors, winter can be an exhilarating time to explore what the park has to offer and here are five reasons you should go. Rainforest Hiking The Pacific Northwest is known for its rainfall and with an average of 12 feet of rain per year in Olympic Park, the temperate climate here is perfect for sustaining the rainforests. During the wet winters, the forests really come alive. Put on your raincoat and galoshes and walk the trails beneath the lush green canopy of the trees. Big-leaf maple, Douglas fir, more Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and red alder all thrive here, as do a variety of mosses and ferns. Of the four rainforests, Hoh and Quinault are the most easily accessible, but be prepared to get wet. Winter Storm Watching Pacific storms can create ocean swells of 15 to 20 feet in height, which crash onto the shore and toss fallen trees around like they were matchsticks. At low tide between storms, you can beachcomb, explore the tidal pools, and marvel at the huge storm-tossed logs. One of the best places to watch the spectacular storms is Cape Flattery, the most north-westerly point of the contiguous United States. Skiing and Snowboarding Hurricane Ridge is at an elevation of 5,242 feet and is usually covered in snow from December to the end of March. Along with the opportunity for downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and tubing, you will be rewarded with some of the most stunning views in Olympic National Park. The family-friendly Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area features two rope tows, a poma lift, a tubing park, and a Snowplay Area for small children. Equipment can be rented, and ski and snowboarding lessons are available. The area is open on weekends and holiday Mondays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Snowshoeing During the winter season, you can join ranger-guided snowshoe walks, which are offered on weekends and holiday Mondays at 2 p.m. Instructions and snowshoes are provided by the park. The walk is moderate, covering less than a mile, and lasts around 1.5 hours. Sign-up is 30 minutes before the walk at the Hurricane Ridge information desk. Groups need to make reservations in advance. Makah Museum Located in the Makah Tribe Reservation, the Makah Museum in Neah Bay features artifacts from a Makah village that was partially buried by a mudslide between 300 and 500 years ago. The exhibits include basketry, fishing and whaling gear, and replicas of canoes and a longhouse, giving you a unique glimpse of pre-contact Makah life. Whatever winter activity you plan to do in Olympic National Park, you should be aware that weather conditions can change quickly. In bad weather, some areas and facilities may not be accessible. Make sure to check the trail and road conditions and the weather forecast before your visit. Image via David Fulmer | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

You may think of winter in Seattle as short days, dreary gray skies, and cold temperatures. But in the city and nearby, there are plenty of fun wintertime activities to keep you amused, both indoors and out. Here are five recommendations for you. Space Needle For the best panoramic views of Seattle, Puget Sound, and the surrounding mountain ranges, a visit to the iconic Space Needle is a must. Recently renovated, there are now two additional thrill levels. Sit on the glass benches and take in the breathtaking views through the outward sloped floor to ceiling windows. Or dare to step onto The Loupe, the world's first rotating glass floor. more If you are lucky enough to be there for New Year's Eve, the Space Needle becomes the focal point for the spectacular firework display. You can see it from the Seattle Center at midnight. Museum of Pop Culture Before you even enter MoPOP you can take in the futuristic and colorful design of the building with its 21,000 stainless steel and aluminum shingles with the Space Needle as a backdrop. Exhibitions include Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes, featuring artwork, costumes from the movies, and other artifacts. See the stories of Seattle's icons — Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, and Pearl Jam. Get hands-on in the immersive Sound Lab and explore other worlds in the Holodome. Winter Sports at Snoqualmie Pass If you need to escape the cabin fever and fill your lungs with fresh mountain air, you can drive to Snoqualmie Pass in less than an hour on I-90. With four ski areas covering almost 2,000 acres, there are facilities for skiing and snowboarding. Some runs are illuminated and open until 10 p.m. for night skiing. There are also more than 30 miles of groomed Nordic trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. A newly opened development, The Pass Life, features the Washington State Ski & Snowboard Museum, with interactive exhibits charting the development of winter sports. Also incorporated in the new community are the Commonwealth Cafe and the Dru Bru brewery and taproom. Take a Boat Trip Another way to beat the indoor blues is to wrap up warm and take one of the boat trips from Seattle's Central Waterfront. The narrated Seattle Harbor cruise lasts for an hour and gives you a different perspective of the city from the Harbor and Elliot Bay. Alternatively, you could take a personalized 2-hour cocktail cruise along Lake Union. You'll see the major Seattle landmarks, as well as seaplanes taking off and landing and the many floating homes on the lake. Chocolate Factory Tour After all that fresh air, why not take a tour of the fair-trade Theo Chocolate Factory? On the entertaining and informative tour, you will learn about the chocolate making process from bean to bar. And, of course, there will be chocolate tasting throughout the tour, which lasts around an hour. Seattle and the surrounding areas have many more attractions to offer and they are just waiting to be explored. Image via jc.winkler | Licensed by CC BY 2.0

Getting in shape can be challenging, especially if you have a full-time job, kids, or trouble finding the right workout buddy. Fortunately for Burien residents, it's not too much of a daunting task to find the ideal fitness facility for busybodies or anyone looking to get healthy. In fact, here are four of the best athletic clubs worth checking out in the area. Freedom Fitness Gym This first venue splits its services into two general categories: a traditional gym consisting of dumbbells, cardio equipment, and cable machines designed to strengthen your arms, core, and legs, as well as alternative training via weightlifting, punching bags, kettlebells, and an indoor field. Those looking for an adrenaline boost can also enjoy the 50-minute boot camp class packed with high-intensity interval more training. Ultimately, the staff at Freedom Fitness aim for results first and foremost, and they do so by taking a one-on-one approach and finding the most effective workout routine and nutritional diet for each client. Highline Athletic Club Among the 31,000 square feet of space at Highline Athletic Club sits a diverse set of equipment to suit your individual needs. Tone and condition with a set of weights, get your heart going on a cardio machine, take a lap around the indoor track, hit the basketball courts, or relax your muscles in the indoor heated pool and sauna. Other amenities at Highline include an on-site spa, water classes, cycling, yoga and pilates, and children's activities, such as karate and Zumba. Plus, you'll feel like royalty with the complimentary towel service and lounge refreshments available. Hot Feet Fitness Whether you prefer calming meditation and stretching sessions, all-inclusive yoga classes for beginners and advanced students alike, or high-intensity interval training, Hot Feet Fitness has the facilities you need to strengthen and tone at your pace. You can also enroll in public groups or opt for a private session for a more intimate approach to health and nutrition. Plus, walk-ins are always welcome at Hot Feet Fitness, and special discounts are available for students, senior citizens, educators, veterans, firefighters, and first responders looking to join the club. Normandy Park Athletic Club Situated about three miles south of Burien and north of Des Moines is the Normandy Park Athletic Club. Here you'll find group exercise programs ranging from barbell lifting and cycling to yoga and Zumba classes. Situated within the 13,000-square-foot space are also traditional cardio machines like treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes, and complimentary weights. You can also sign up for a barre class, which combines elements of yoga, pilates, and aerobics, or get the blood pumping in a spinning class or circuit training course. And don't be shy in bringing the kiddos along. Normandy Park Athletic Club offers on-site childcare service for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years old so you can get in shape without worrying about your child's whereabouts. Are you searching for top-rated facilities in the Burien area filled with high-end fitness equipment and professional training instructors? These four local recommendations offer the guidance and support you need to work toward a healthier lifestyle. Image via Marco Verch | Licensed by CC BY 2.0