Page 27 - AAA Now! – AAA Central Penn – Fall/Winter 2020

TRAVEL
Escape to the
Scenic Pacific
Northwest
By Judie L. Karhan
The Pacific Northwest, which lies between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Rocky Mountains on the east, hypnotizes travelers with its incredible scenery – sprawling forests, scenic coastline and snowcapped mountains. With
its natural beauty, the region offers refreshing respite for visitors and sparks an appreciation for its independent-minded residents, who embrace the outdoors and thriving art, music and theater scenes.
AAA Central Penn invites you to join us on an exploration of this region in fall 2021, which begins in vibrant Portland, Oregon, as well-known for its coffeehouses and brewhouses as much as its parks, bridges and bicycle paths. Drive along the Columbia River Gorge, where you can stop at Crown Point, a breathtaking scenic lookout, and visit Vista House, a museum and memorial celebrating Oregon’s pioneers. Take in the peacefulness of
the wilderness with a refreshing trip to Multnomah Falls. Then, replenish yourself with some cold craft beers at a private beer tasting and learn from a local master brewer.
Travel northward to Seattle and you will find an artsy, innovative city with a cosmopolitan allure. Visit the iconic Seattle Space Needle and enjoy 360-degree views of the
city, expanding over the city to include the natural wonders Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Olympic and Cascade mountains. Or, perhaps stroll through the striking Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit. And, of course, a journey to Seattle would not be complete without visiting Pike Place Market; since
1907, the market has been a focal point of Seattle commerce. Venturing onward, board the Victoria Clipper and relax as
you travel in comfort from Seattle to picturesque Victoria, British Columbia, which lies at the southern end of Vancouver Island. With a British colonial past, the city proudly displays
its Victorian architecture and world-famous 55-acre Butchart Gardens. Spend time strolling through these delightful gardens with their masterfully crafted blooming flower displays. At the Roost, an iconic local dining venue, indulge yourself in farm culinary specialties and a sampling of regional fine wines. Perhaps you’ll want to stretch your day out to enjoy more
of Victoria at Lower Johnson Street, known locally as LoJo,
a colorful pastel-painted neighborhood with independent boutiques and restaurants.
Take in the beauty of Canada from the air as you travel from Victoria to Vancouver via classic seaplane. Considered by many to be one of the most beautiful and interesting cities in North America, cosmopolitan Vancouver exudes a sense of excitement. Travelers from around the world come here to enjoy this city’s colorful neighborhoods, energetic nightlife and Pacific Northwest lifestyle.
Popular with visitors to Vancouver, Granville Island Public Market is a hub of activity, with rows of stalls offering fresh produce, gourmet foods, bakery goods and seafood. Stanley Park, at the northwestern edge of downtown Vancouver,
is another one of the city’s main tourist destinations, and is recognized as one of the greatest urban parks in the world. But arguably one of Vancouver’s most impressive outdoor venues is Capilano Suspension Bridge. Cross the bridge over the Capilano River and appreciate magnificent views from the top of the canyon.
With so many natural attributes, the Pacific Northwest offers a great realm of experiences, and the memorable days you spend here are sure to be treasured. If you would like to know more about this region and AAA Central’s Penn’s Captivating Pacific Northwest tour, September 24 – October 2, 2021, contact your local AAA Travel agent.
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