Experience My Trip: nature, luxury, and incredible cuisine in the Pacific Northwest of the USA

I’m a true East Coast woman – but despite my roots, I’m not one to overlook the Pacific side of the USA.

In fact, there were several reasons I eagerly accepted the chance to leave my new Brooklyn apartment for a quick jaunt to Washington State. First, I longed for a taste of autumn, and the sweltering 90-degree days in New York (in September!) were wearing me down. Second, as a nature enthusiast living in a concrete jungle, nothing satisfies my craving for the outdoors like a trail run – or at least a leisurely trail walk. Third, I had never set foot in the Pacific Northwest before.

It was high time I changed that.

My brief trip achieved the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Following my path, however, it would be easy to lean towards one experience over the other.

Where did you stay? What was the atmosphere like?

I lodged at The Lodge at St Edward Park, located just a half-hour's drive from Seattle. This sophisticated hotel, once a seminary, strikes a balance between comfort and modernity. Elements like blueprint-patterned wallpaper and the original dining hall transformed into the main restaurant pay homage to its rich history. Surrounded by state park trails leading to nearby Lake Washington, where towering fir trees create a serene atmosphere, it truly feels like a retreat.

It’s the kind of place you might find hard to leave during your entire stay. With a gallery for local artists, a library stocked with vintage board games, pickleball courts, a spa, two bars, and a farm-to-table restaurant on site (more details on that later), I felt like I was transported to a scene from Knives Out amid the grand historic structure, vast lawns, and encircling forest.

What was the highlight of the trip?

A floatplane adventure above Seattle. I took full advantage of the lodge’s partnership with Kenmore Air and hopped aboard for breathtaking views of the city, soaring over iconic landmarks like the Space Needle, Ballard Locks, and Lake Washington, while enjoying mountain vistas all around. This isn’t just any plane ride: with a graceful water takeoff and landing, and seating for only 10 passengers, everyone gets a window seat. The small aircraft can fly much lower than others, allowing me to see every detail below, making it feel like I was gazing at a miniature city model. My only regret was capturing half of the 30-minute flight through the lens instead of fully enjoying the scenery! Make sure to take a few photos before you fix your eyes on the window for the rest of the journey.

This is definitely a splurge activity (tours cost $99 per person), but it’s a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience that I’d highly recommend if your budget allows. You can also book flights to various nearby destinations like the San Juan Islands and British Columbia, which would easily surpass a long car or ferry ride. I’m already set on planning a floatplane island-hopping adventure in the future.

What was the highlight of your meals?

If there’s one thing I excelled at during this trip, it was indulging in delicious food. With two bars and a restaurant on the Lodge grounds, I lacked for nothing. Head chef Luke Kolpin, who spent over eight years working at noma – yes, that noma – in Copenhagen, now leads the kitchen at the lodge’s main restaurant, Cedar + Elm.

The menu is seasonal and sustainable, thanks to the lodge’s own garden and apiary. Choosing a single favorite dish from the trip is impossible… but I found myself daydreaming about the ricotta gnudi with mushrooms, grilled gem lettuce filled with shrimp and dill sauce, roasted-seaweed ice cream, and fresh flatbread generously coated in “dirty dip” – a divine concoction made from browned butter and pan drippings.

What surprised you the most?

You often hear about Seattle’s endless rain, but I was thrilled to enjoy nothing but sunshine during my visit – the only rain I encountered was a light drizzle while heading to the airport. Many locals shared that this is the best time to visit, as the leaves start to change and winter’s heavy rains haven’t arrived yet.

I couldn’t agree more. Exploring the outdoors is always a top priority for me, so I took full advantage of the lovely weather, hitting the state park’s trails each morning to soak in the cool air and sunshine. For a beautiful blend of forest and water views, the Seminary or Grotto trail leads down to Lake Washington, where a beach trail runs alongside the water.

What was the most surprising activity you enjoyed?

I had never considered the Pacific Northwest as a wine destination, nor do I fancy myself a wine connoisseur. However, a tasting is definitely a must-do here. This region ranks as the second-largest wine producer in the U.S., right after California, which I discovered at the nearby tasting room of Rocky Pond Winery in Woodinville. We enjoyed a seated tasting, savoring six different wines paired with charcuterie for nearly an hour. A seasonal flight of five wines is priced at $20 – a delightful and budget-friendly way to spend a weekend afternoon, in my opinion.

For a more boutique experience, I heard that Woodinville’s Warehouse District is the place to visit. Unlike the tasting room I experienced, many of the smaller wineries there produce their wines on-site. You can hop from one tasting room to another in the district without needing to drive.

What was the most useful item you packed?

While I adore a stylish outfit, comfort was key for this trip. I lived in athleisure and jeans the entire time and felt perfectly at home. And don't forget that unexpected sunshine: make sure to bring sunscreen! You'll want to enjoy the sun, especially if you explore the skies and trails like I did.

Bonus tip: if you're short on suitcase space, skip bringing your shower products. I left the Lodge smelling delightful, thanks to their selection of bath and hair products.

Ann Douglas visited Washington State at the invitation of the Lodge at St Edward Park. Dinogo Planet does not accept complimentary services in exchange for favorable coverage.