cool state washington

Every community has a story

Poulsbo, Bellingham, Port Townsend, Gig Harbor and La Conner are all rooted in the maritime and timber industries that brought settlers west. Ellensburg, Walla Walla and Dayton built sturdy brick downtowns and stately craftsman homes using wealth created through ranching and agriculture. Olympia anchors our state government and Vancouver, with Fort Vancouver, hearkens back to the early 19th century when the Hudson Bay Company traded with 35 tribal groups for fur. Around Yakima the Hispanic culture is so colorful and alive you’ll wonder at times if you’ve awakened in Guadalajara. By contrast, visit Seattle’s International District on Chinese New Year to see dragons dancing with shimmy and strut to rival Shanghai. And while you’re dipping into these enclaves of ethnicity, be certain to sample the local cuisine.

The bounty of Washington’s resources
No matter what part of the state they live in, Washingtonians love good food. From the sea, the ranches and the wilderness, chefs all around the state are producing meals that win awards and, more importantly, the gastronomic affections of their consumers. Paired with a glass (or two) of one of our award-winning wines, they’ll make you understand why the kitchens of our state produce food as distinct, delicious and sought after as the cuisines of Europe, Asia, or Cajun country. Immodest about our state we may be. But Washington has it all. Yes, you’ll likely come to see our natural wonders … the jagged snowcapped peaks, the slopes carpeted in wildflowers, the wild, cold, foamy waves crashing against towering rock outcroppings. But like side dishes and desserts at a banquet, the rest of the menu that makes up this feast called Washington is vast, complex and complete.