The Archive

Everything we have found so far.

Entries are added as they are verified in the field. Coordinates are approximate; the walk is the point.

All Art & Wonder Community Creations Film & Pop Culture History and Forgotten Places Local Characters & Places Nature & Adventure Oddities & Roadside Attractions Places of Meaning Spooky and Legends

Art & Wonder

"Add to It" Community art Project

Great stop to add something to this community project. Along the Tommy Thompson trail, not long before the train trestle, you will find the 'Add to It' art project.

48.4828° N, 122.5916° W

Art & Wonder

"Hope" the bronze Wishing Whale

This little town is packed with art and views. There is also a small Whale Museum. “Whalecome" to Langley, Washington. This is Hope, the bronze Wishing Whale by Georgia Gerber. Drop a coin in her blowhole and a bell should ring. Beside her is a whale bell for spotting whales. I didn’t see one today

48.0409° N, 122.4095° W

Art & Wonder

"The Fin Project" by John T. Young (Public Art Installation)

This is an impactful installation with fins from submarines used in the military. There are plaques that show each name of each sub the fin came from. The large fins look like a pod of Orcas.

47.6814° N, 122.2469° W

Local Characters & Places

59er Diner

Field notes to come.

47.7588° N, 120.7419° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Acid Ball

Most people call it the Acid Ball, but it's actually a massive piece of Bellingham's industrial history. I love that instead of scrapping it, the city turned it into one of its most recognizable landmarks. Officially named Waypoint, this 32-foot steel sphere is a former acid accumulator from the Georgia-Pacific pulp mill that once occupied Bellingham's waterfront. Built around 1938, the 430,000-pound vessel was part of the mill's digester system, helping regulate pressure as wood chips were cooked into pulp. In 2018, it was moved more than 1,000 feet to Waypoint Park, coated with millions of reflective glass beads, and transformed into a public art installation. At night, it glows with LED lighting, and during special events it's occasionally used as a giant canvas for projected artwork and animations.

48.7507° N, 122.4856° W

History and Forgotten Places

Air Raid Siren-'Big Bertha'

This is one of those things you could pass repeatedly without realizing what you're looking at. Big Bertha hasn't sounded in decades, but during the Cold War, this enormous yellow siren was part of Seattle's warning system for an enemy attack. Installed in 1953 near John B. Allen School, “Big Bertha” is a Chrysler air-raid siren weighing approximately 5,500 pounds. It was one of 21 powerful sirens positioned around Seattle and could produce sound approaching 130 decibels. The siren was tested every Wednesday at noon. Accounts from the era describe schoolchildren practicing emergency drills by taking cover beneath their desks while neighborhood dogs howled at the sound. As Cold War warning systems became obsolete, the sirens fell silent. Big Bertha survived and was eventually restored by the community, although the siren itself remains inoperative. Today it sits quietly in Phinney Ridge—a remarkably large reminder of a time when Seattle was preparing for the possibility of nuclear attack.

47.6777° N, 122.3543° W

Nature & Adventure

Arboretum Tunnel

Field notes to come.

48.7385° N, 122.4806° W

Spooky and Legends

Arctic Club Hotel

This is a must stop for a stroll past the amazing terracotta walrus heads on the outside of the building, or a wander to the skylit convention room. Must stop to see this beautiful building. This is Seattle's historic Arctic Club, built in 1917 as an exclusive gathering place for wealthy Klondike Gold Rush miners, Alaskan explorers, and businessmen returning from the North. Inside, deals were made, fortunes were celebrated, and Seattle's future was shaped. Today it's a luxury hotel, but some guests report cold spots, phantom footsteps, and even the ghost of Congressman Marion Zioncheck, who died after jumping from a fifth-floor office in 1936. Whether you believe the stories or not, those walruses have been watching over downtown Seattle for more than a century.

47.6037° N, 122.3318° W

Local Characters & Places

Barber Shop Stop

This spot made me pull over. I am a sucker for random heads mounted on walls, and other creative additions to exterior to bring some fun to the neighborhood. Created by Brenda Humber, an Everett Local. This is the place I would get my haircut if I lived in Everett.

47.9875° N, 122.2088° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Beached Sailboat

A peaceful beach with an unexpected piece of local history. If you visit at low tide, don't miss the remains of the sailboat. The Osprey – Locust Beach The weathered remains of The Osprey have rested on Locust Beach since washing ashore years ago. Once a family home and later a sailboat with a long history on Bellingham Bay, the wreck has become an unofficial landmark and a favorite subject for photographers.

48.7680° N, 122.5278° W

History and Forgotten PlacesBerlin Wall DisplayPhotograph pending

History and Forgotten Places

Berlin Wall Display

Field notes to come.

47.6216° N, 122.3510° W

History and Forgotten Places

Berlin Wall-Fremont

One of Seattle's most unexpected pieces of history. You're walking through Fremont, and suddenly you're standing beside a real section of the Berlin Wall. Two authentic sections of the Berlin Wall are on display in Fremont. The larger piece stands outside the History House of Greater Seattle, while a second fragment can be found nearby at the Center of the Universe sign. Originally built to divide East and West Berlin from 1961 to 1989, these pieces now serve as reminders of the Cold War and the fall of the wall that reunited a city.

47.6493° N, 122.3476° W

Community Creations

Big Lake Trinket Exchange

Bring something to trade at this easy to miss trinket exchange. Always visit with respect.

48.4017° N, 122.2409° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Blarney Stone

Since the 1980s, this Blarney stone, while not from Ireland, has served the in the St Patrick's Day parade as a blessing. Kissed by thousands and hopefully cleaned by Leprechauns.

48.2863° N, 122.6540° W

Art & Wonder

Blue Bear Puppet Lab

This was a wonderful surprise and special stop. The puppets in the window drew me in. Brian was very friendly and let us look around. bluebearpuppetlab.art https://www.facebook.com/bluebearpuppetlab/ A working community art space founded by artist and CWU professor Brian Kooser, where people can learn to create giant puppets, masks, sculptures and theatrical props. Located inside The Ink, a former Daily Record printing room. Look for the zebra bicycle—and keep an eye out for some very unusual creations.

46.9958° N, 120.5488° W

Community Creations

Bluebelle Hill Free Little Art Gallery

Bring a piece of art to share or trade at this hidden little art box in a quiet neighborhood. Also visit with respect. Follow on IG at bluebelle _hill_flag

47.3352° N, 122.1948° W

Places of Meaning

Bow Sanctuary Labyrinth

Bow Sanctuary can be walked for free if you ask at the front. The garden contains a sanctuary with koi pods, bamboo forests, sauna, and a labyrinth in the grass. If you remember grace from the aluminum slag, she is there as well. Rumor has it a wind phone is or has been added.

48.5959° N, 122.4215° W

Art & WonderBronze Dance Steps-Fox Trot WeavePhotograph pending

Art & Wonder

Bronze Dance Steps-Fox Trot Weave

These are exactly the little details I love finding. Thousands of people walk Broadway without noticing that there's a 40-year-old dance lesson beneath their feet. Find a set, follow the numbers, and give it a try. Look down while walking Broadway on Capitol Hill and you may discover a dance lesson embedded right into the sidewalk. Artist Jack Mackie designed the Dancers' Series: Steps in 1979 as Broadway was undergoing a major streetscape renovation. Bronze artist Chuck Greening cast the footprints, and the completed works were dedicated in 1982. Eight sets survive along Broadway between East Pine and East Roy Streets, teaching the tango, waltz, Lindy, foxtrot weave, rumba and mambo with numbered bronze footprints, arrows, and left/right markings. Mackie also invented two dances specifically for the project: the Obeebo and the wonderfully Seattle-specific Busstop, inspired by the little movements people make while waiting for a bus. The project was an early product of Seattle's Percent for Art program and was intended to make the everyday pedestrian experience more interesting. Mackie developed the idea by watching people move along Broadway, later saying the steps couldn't have worked anywhere else in the city

47.6229° N, 122.3208° W

Art & WonderBronze Dance Steps-MamboPhotograph pending

Art & Wonder

Bronze Dance Steps-Mambo

47.6217° N, 122.3211° W

Art & WonderBronze Dance Steps-RumbaPhotograph pending

Art & Wonder

Bronze Dance Steps-Rumba

47.6205° N, 122.3207° W

Film & Pop Culture

Bruce Lee and Brandon Lee Grave Sites

One of Seattle's most visited gravesites. Even if you're not a martial arts fan, it's a peaceful place to reflect on the remarkable—and tragically short—lives of a father and son who changed film history. Located in historic Lake View Cemetery, Bruce Lee and his son Brandon Lee are buried side by side overlooking Lake Washington. Fans from around the world leave flowers, notes, coins, and other tributes at the graves, making this one of Washington's most meaningful pilgrimage sites for movie and martial arts enthusiasts.

47.6338° N, 122.3159° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Bus in a Tree

One of those wonderfully weird roadside discoveries that makes you wonder, "Why is there a bus in a tree?" It's exactly the kind of thing I love stumbling across. Tucked along a country road near Arlington, this colorful Volkswagen bus sits perched in a tree, decorated with bright paint, peace signs, and flower power vibes. It's a privately created piece of roadside art that has become a favorite stop for curious travelers and photographers. While it's best admired from the road, it's a fun reminder that some of Washington's most memorable attractions aren't in guidebooks—they're simply someone's wonderfully creative idea

48.1407° N, 122.1126° W

Community Creations

Call Box Little Library

I don't always feature Little Free Libraries unless they are extremely creative. This one hit the spot.

48.2204° N, 122.6917° W

Places of Meaning

Capitol Hill Wishing Tree

A beloved neighborhood tradition, the Capitol Hill Wishing Tree is covered with ribbons, notes, and handwritten wishes left by visitors from around the world. Tucked into a quiet residential street, it's a whimsical stop that invites everyone to pause, make a wish, and leave a little piece of hope behind.

47.6322° N, 122.3048° W

Spooky and LegendsCaptain Coupe GravePhotograph pending

Spooky and Legends

Captain Coupe Grave

The man that Coupeville is named after is laid to rest here with his wife.

48.2064° N, 122.7057° W

History and Forgotten Places

Causland Memorial Park

This is an absolute gem and deserves some time to look around. Masterfully crafted, it seems like it is straight out of a mermaid city.

48.5163° N, 122.6164° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Center of the Universe Signpost

Center of the Universe Sign 🌎 Hidden in Seattle's quirky Fremont neighborhood, this sign boldly marks the Center of the Universe. Is it scientifically accurate? Probably not. Has anyone definitively proven otherwise? Also no. Installed as part of Fremont's long tradition of celebrating the weird, the sign perfectly captures the neighborhood's playful spirit. While you're here, you're within walking distance of the Fremont Rocket, Saturn installation, the Berlin Wall, Lenin statue, and plenty of other curious discoveries.

47.6505° N, 122.3501° W

History and Forgotten Places

Chief Sealth Gravesite

This is a beautiful place with deep history. There is so much more than this grave. The final resting place of siʔał, also known as Chief Sealth or Chief Seattle, a leader connected to both the Suquamish and Duwamish peoples and the namesake of the city of Seattle. Chief Seattle died in 1866 and was buried here in the Suquamish Cemetery on the Port Madison Indian Reservation. His original marble headstone was placed in 1890 and includes his baptismal name, Noah Sealth. The memorial is surrounded by words in Lushootseed and English that have long been attributed to him. Two cedar story poles, carved by Andrea Wilbur-Sigo and Steve Sigo, were added during a later restoration. The poles depict parts of Chief Seattle’s life. This is an active cemetery and a culturally significant place. Please visit quietly and respectfully.

47.7306° N, 122.5552° W

Nature & Adventure

Chuckanut Pocket Estuary

This is a great place to see and experience bioluminescence in the summer. It is also a rare and ecologically valuable and the last pocket estuary in Bellingham bay. It has also experienced extreme habit loss due to development, and will likely see more, as a large development has just been passed for the area. The developer studies state otherwise. Visit with care and respect.

48.7022° N, 122.4971° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Clock Tower House

Every time I drive through Ferndale, I can't help but look up at this house. It feels like something pulled from a storybook—or maybe a Studio Ghibli film. It's proof that one person's imagination can become a town's most recognizable landmark. What began as a modest 1925 Craftsman home has transformed into one of Washington's most unusual houses. After purchasing the property in 2002, owners Art and Margaret Rojsza spent years turning it into an ever-evolving work of art, complete with a soaring clock tower, reclaimed building materials, and countless architectural details. The project sparked years of legal battles with the City of Ferndale over permits and building codes, but the owners continued their vision. Today, the Clock Tower House has become a beloved local landmark that people slow down to admire—and debate—every time they pass through town. 📍 Please enjoy it from the street, as this is a private residence.

48.8480° N, 122.5985° W

Spooky and LegendsComet Lodge CemeteryPhotograph pending

Spooky and Legends

Comet Lodge Cemetery

Field notes to come.

47.5470° N, 122.3052° W

Art & Wonder

Consulat de Monte-Cristo

This is a puzzling and delightful eccentricity in a small alley. After some reading I learned this little city has 44 citizens and the requirements for entry are to be an interesting person with a good heart.

48.7532° N, 122.4780° W

Art & Wonder

Conway Beluga Whale

This is a wonderful piece of art that you notice if you are paying attention. I went to see Tony the Salvage artist and came across this piece. This unusual all-metal sea creature resembles a beluga whale or dolphin. One side presents its complete outer form, while the opposite side exposes a sculpted metal skeleton. It stands in a small roadside space beside the railroad tracks in Conway. A nearby artist hinted that the sculpture has “a secret,” but declined to reveal it. Its official title, artist, installation date and full story have not yet been verified. Please obey the posted sign and do not climb on the sculpture.

48.3405° N, 122.3427° W

Community Creations

Cool Rock Swap!

Bring a cool rock to Swap at this unique little rock exchange. Always visit with respect.

48.7495° N, 122.4650° W

History and Forgotten Places

Crockett Blockhouse

Quick stop. The structure is very old and well preserved. It was never used for it's intended purpose.

48.1733° N, 122.6723° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Crow with Fries

Absolutely worth the stop for a picture. This 12-foot-tall aluminum crow was created by artist Peter Reiquam and installed in 2019 at Les Gove Park. Inspired by the crows that gathered around the former Big Daddy's Drive-In on this site, the playful sculpture has become one of Auburn's most recognizable landmarks—and one of Washington's quirkiest photo stops.

47.2981° N, 122.2184° W

Nature & Adventure

Cyrus Gates Overlook

Take Cleator up about 15 minutes, drive slowly. Discover pass just in case. This is the most elevated and expansive view of Bellingham Bay the San Juans you can see. A few picnic tables and bathrooms. There are many connection trails to take, especially the Rock Trail which is breathtaking.

48.6540° N, 122.4646° W

Nature & Adventure

Deception Falls

You can miss this spot so quickly if you don't pay attention. This is the most beautiful rest stop I have every been to. Multitiered waterfall with evidence of old stonework. There are several bridges below that were damaged from flooding. Take a break and stretch your legs.

47.7146° N, 121.1934° W

Nature & Adventure

Denny Blaine - Clothing Optional Beach-Expect Nudity

One of Seattle's prettiest hidden beaches. It's best known as a clothing-optional beach, but even if you keep your swimsuit on, it's a beautiful place to relax or swim. Denny Blaine Park – Seattle Nestled along the shores of Lake Washington, Denny Blaine Park is a small waterfront park with a historic stone seawall, clear water, and a long history as one of Seattle's unofficial clothing-optional beaches. It has become an important gathering place for Seattle's LGBTQ+ community while remaining open to everyone

47.6202° N, 122.2800° W

Art & Wonder

Dick and Jane's Spot

Absolutely worth the detour. What began in 1978 as two artists decorating their home has grown into one of Washington's most beloved examples of outsider art. Created by Dick Elliott and Jane Orleman, this ever-evolving private residence features mosaics, sculptures, found objects, bottle caps, and thousands of Dick Elliott's signature highway reflectors. More than 40 Northwest artists have contributed to the property over the years, transforming it into a joyful community art environment. Visitors are welcome to admire the artwork from the sidewalk, read the information kiosk, and sign the guest book—but please remember this is still a private home. If you visit after dark, the reflectors come alive in your headlights, creating an entirely different experience.

46.9926° N, 120.5475° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Dinosaur Town-Hisey Park-Granger

I didn't give Granger nearly enough time. I stopped at Hisey Park to see the dinosaurs and the volcano bathrooms, only to realize there are dinosaurs scattered all over town. This deserves a return trip—and a proper Dino Drive. Granger proudly calls itself “Where the Dinosaurs Roam,” and the unusual theme began as part of an effort to revitalize the small agricultural community. After woolly mammoth bones and tusks had been discovered in local clay pits, residents embraced a prehistoric theme. In 1994, Granger's Public Works crew created its first dinosaur—a baby Brontosaurus made from wire mesh and concrete. They kept building. By 2019, the city counted 33 dinosaurs, with many gathered at Hisey Park and others scattered around town. Visitors can follow the Dino Drive to hunt for them. Hisey Park is home to more than two dozen dinosaurs, a plesiosaur rising from the fishing pond, the community amphitheater, and one particularly committed piece of prehistoric architecture: public bathrooms built inside a volcano that was originally designed to erupt with steam.

46.3362° N, 120.1929° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Dinosaur Yard

Wonderful yard of dionsaurs and other animals, overlooking the water and worth a detour. The dinosaurs have taken over this Whidbey Island yard. A collection of large dinosaur sculptures—including a brontosaurus, ankylosaurus and T. rex—stands in a residential yard overlooking the water. One of those wonderfully unexpected places you might drive right past without knowing it's there.

48.0334° N, 122.5992° W

Nature & Adventure

Dogfish Point-Clothing Optional Beach

Dogfish Point is Bellingham's unofficial nude beach. It is a beautiful spot that is tricky to access. There is a rope leading straight down from the Dogfish Point overlook, and an alternative trail that takes you down to the railroad tracks. Due to needing to cross and follow the railroad tracks makes this destiniation dangerous to access.

48.6260° N, 122.4641° W

Community Creations

Doggy Library

Quick stop with your furry friends. Bring something to share with another doggy. Toys, sticks, lightly used supplies.

48.7668° N, 122.4765° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Donald the Giant Medal Elephant

Donald is exactly why I love exploring random roads. There's no big attraction or elaborate story—just a giant homemade metal elephant and a collection of unexpected characters waiting at the end of a quiet road. Located along East Stackpole Road near Mount Vernon, Donald is a large homemade metal elephant surrounded by other handmade figures, including Alvin, Simon and Theodore and familiar characters like Tweety Bird. Very little appears to have been documented about who created the collection or why. It's simply one of those wonderfully personal roadside creations that makes you wonder about the person behind it. Please remember this is a quiet residential area. View the sculptures respectfully from the road and don't enter private property.

48.3706° N, 122.3105° W

Film & Pop Culture

Dr Mott and "Peyton's" House from the Hand that Rocks the Cradle

Quick stop and extremely recognizable. This is a private residence. Visit with respect, and no trespassing.

47.6421° N, 122.4042° W

Art & Wonder

Driftwood Dinosaurs

A whimsical and hand made set of dinosaurs are hidden in the reeds and pond along Sandy Point. Visit with respect.

48.8174° N, 122.7090° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Driftwood Giraffes

By artist Joe Treat.

48.5158° N, 122.6092° W

Community Creations

Duvall Trinke Trade

Bring something to give or trade. Follow them on Tiktok @duvall.trinket.tr Always visit with respect.

47.7406° N, 121.9864° W

Film & Pop Culture

Edith Macefield's House - Up Inspiration

Quick stop for a photo to see the little house that Edith wouldn't sell to the developers. She died in the home. The story is very similar to the story of Pixars Up, but there is a lot of debate about whether this story inspired the film.

47.6623° N, 122.3753° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Elephant Car Wash Sign

Field notes to come.

47.6168° N, 122.3400° W

Community Creations

Ellensburg Mug Exchange

Field notes to come.

47.0140° N, 120.5494° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Erasmus the Rooftop Dragon

One of Washington's most unexpected roadside attractions. It's worth the stop just to look up and wonder how a dragon ended up on a downtown rooftop. Perched atop a historic downtown building, Erasmus is a 700-pound aluminum dragon unveiled in 2019. Named after Renton founder Erasmus Smithers, the sculpture was inspired by the city's ties to aviation, fantasy gaming, and the idea that a dragon had crash-landed on the roof—complete with a cracked façade beneath it. At night, its eyes and mouth change colors, and it occasionally breathes smoke during special events

47.4798° N, 122.2056° W

Art & WonderEscalators that Only Go Up-Seattle Central LibraryPhotograph pending

Art & Wonder

Escalators that Only Go Up-Seattle Central Library

This is the most artistic libraries I have ever walked through. From the Red Pantone Hallway to the "Only Up" Escalators. Seattle Central Library feels more like a piece of experimental art than a public building. Its narrow fluorescent-green escalators carry visitors up through the library—but there’s no matching ride back down. Add in the entirely red Level 4 hallway, the Books Spiral and nearly 10,000 windows, and it’s worth exploring even if you don’t need a book.

47.6068° N, 122.3326° W

Film & Pop Culture

Espresso Chalet-Harry and the Hendersons

A classic Pacific Northwest roadside stop with sweeping views of Mount Index, famous for its giant Bigfoot statue and a memorable appearance in Harry and the Hendersons. Whether you're a movie fan or just passing through Stevens Pass, it's worth the stop.

47.8085° N, 121.5619° W

History and Forgotten Places

Everett Massacre Site and Plaque

Quick stop. A significant historical site with a small memorial plaque on a boulder. This spot also has an old brick road.

47.9794° N, 122.2171° W

Places of Meaning

Fairhaven Park Labyrinth

This is a quick little stop that can be easily missed if you don't walk into the park far enough. Recessed into the ground, this lovely labyrinth is situation in a quiet place, great for meditation and thought.

48.7142° N, 122.4969° W

Art & Wonder

Fairy Door Quest

This is fun for anyone that likes hidden objects and creative and magical stores. Inside of Art and Happiness is a Fairy Door Quest that is fun and interactive. While you look for the doors you will no doubt find something you like from a local artis or crafter.

48.7567° N, 122.4647° W

Art & Wonder

Fairy Garden

Quick stop to admire a detailed and carefully curated Fairy Garden. This is someone's home, but they enjoy respectful visitors. Take a glimpse through the earthly vail to see a whimsical fairy land.

48.7137° N, 122.4854° W

Art & Wonder

Fairy Stump

A whimsical fairy stump put together by a neighbor. Stop for a little glimpse into the fairy world.

48.7254° N, 122.4971° W

Community Creations

Fairy Trinket Trade

Andrea's Tale-On private property with notes stating you may walk the area with respect. This tree has many little trinkets all around it. Bring something to trade. Visit with respect.

48.7239° N, 122.4791° W

History and Forgotten PlacesFarr CemeteryPhotograph pending

History and Forgotten Places

Farr Cemetery

The fence makes Farr look like a tiny cemetery, but that's deceptive. Knowing that graves extend beyond it—and that even the surviving stones may no longer stand over the people they belong to—completely changes how you look at this quiet little patch of Pullman. Hidden among the homes of Pullman's Sunnyside Hill, Farr Cemetery is a surviving piece of the city's pioneer history. Burials here date to at least 1882, and historical research has identified evidence of roughly 81 graves, although far fewer people and markers are documented today. The original burial area extended beyond the small fenced enclosure visitors see now. Farr reportedly served as a free cemetery, providing a burial place for early settlers and travelers passing through the Palouse. Many children were laid to rest here during an era when illnesses including measles and typhoid took a devastating toll on families. Among those associated with Farr is Dr. Henry J. Webb, an early physician often called the "father of Pullman," who played a role in bringing the railroad and what became Washington State University to the community. Sarah Jane Boone Farnsworth, a niece of Daniel Boone, is also believed to be buried somewhere on the hill, although the location of her grave has been lost. The cemetery itself has an unusual preservation story. Cemetery researcher and archivist Maggie Rail recorded that after repeated vandalism, surviving headstones were removed and stored for safekeeping in the basement of Pullman City Hall—where they were eventually forgotten. When rediscovered and returned, their original locations could no longer be determined. As a result, the stones standing inside the fence today may not mark the actual graves of the people named on them.

46.7268° N, 117.1915° W

Community Creations

Fidalgo Little Free Fibrary-Fiber Arts

This is a yarn/fiber box that is hosted by Wild Hemlock. It was established to share fiber goods so people could have access to materials. Bring unused materials if you can. Always visit with respect.

48.5161° N, 122.6121° W

Community CreationsFinn Hill Little Free Art GalleryPhotograph pending

Community Creations

Finn Hill Little Free Art Gallery

Make or bring something to trade. Always visit with respect. Follow on FB at Finn Hill Free Little Art Gallery hosted by Misty Thomas

47.7254° N, 122.2223° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Flinstone Car

A fun waterfront photo stop with a surprising backstory. It's quirky, nostalgic, and uniquely Oak Harbor. Flintstone Car – Oak Harbor A full-size concrete replica of Fred Flintstone's car, this beloved landmark has been parked in Flintstone Park since 1964. It celebrates the original "Flintstone Freeway," a shoreline road built on dredged fill that once ran along the bay before becoming today's Bayshore Drive

48.2878° N, 122.6471° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Flying Saucer with Transporter Beam

This is a quirky little stop. Perfect for little kids and a bathroom break. Landing Zone is a 16-foot-wide flying-saucer shelter created by artist Peter Reiquam at Paine Field Community Park. Granite “alien boulders” surround the spacecraft, and a concrete X marks its fictional landing site. Stand underneath the center skylight, where natural daylight creates the illusion of a transporter beam—no electric lights required. 📍 Paine Field Community Park

47.8909° N, 122.2769° W

History and Forgotten PlacesFort Casey State ParkPhotograph pending

History and Forgotten Places

Fort Casey State Park

Field notes to come.

48.1587° N, 122.6763° W

History and Forgotten PlacesFort Casey Underground Switchboard RoomPhotograph pending

History and Forgotten Places

Fort Casey Underground Switchboard Room

Field notes to come.

48.1576° N, 122.6752° W

History and Forgotten PlacesFortson MillPhotograph pending

History and Forgotten Places

Fortson Mill

Field notes to come.

48.2737° N, 121.7317° W

Art & Wonder

Frankie Feetsplinter

Thomas Dambo's trolls are some of my favorite public art in Washington. They're huge, whimsical, and reward people willing to explore a little. SplinterToes is one of six giant wooden troll sculptures created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo for the Way of the Bird King project. Built from reclaimed wood, each troll has its own personality and story while encouraging visitors to connect with nature and explore the Pacific Northwest. If you enjoy scavenger hunts, tracking down all six trolls is a memorable Washington adventure. One request from me, though: keep fact-checking me on these. You've accumulated an incredible amount of Washington-specific knowledge from researching hundreds of places. When we're working at that level of detail, an occasional mix-up like this can happen. I'd much rather you catch it before it goes into a Found Washington video than have incorrect information published.

47.6685° N, 122.3926° W

Community Creations

Free Little ART Gallery

Bring something to trade. Always visit with respect. Follow on IG at FREELITTLEARTGALLERY_MI

47.5843° N, 122.2406° W

Community CreationsFree Little Art Gallery, North BeaconPhotograph pending

Community Creations

Free Little Art Gallery, North Beacon

Bring Something to trade, Always visit with respect.

47.5832° N, 122.3155° W

Community Creations

Free Seed & Garden Extras

Bring some seeds or garden extras to trade. Today this exchange was empty, so let's give it some love.

48.7528° N, 122.4663° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Freemont Dinosaur Topiaries

A fun roadside stop, especially if you grew up visiting the Pacific Science Center. They're quirky, nostalgic, and make for a great photo. These two giant dinosaur-shaped topiaries were originally created for an exhibit at the Pacific Science Center in the 1980s. When the exhibit ended, the sculptures were nearly destroyed, but the Fremont Arts Council and local supporters purchased them for just $1 and relocated them to Fremont, where they've become one of the neighborhood's most beloved landmarks.

47.6504° N, 122.3548° W

Community Creations

Fremont Bridge Mouse Door

Fremont Bridge Mouse Door 🐭 Hidden on the Fremont Bridge is a tiny mouse-sized door that has become a delightful surprise for observant visitors. It's easy to walk right past, but if you take a moment to look around, you'll discover a miniature world that inspires people to leave tiny gifts and decorations. This location was recommended by a Found Washington community member, and we added a tiny plant during our visit. 👀 Please enjoy it respectfully and leave it just as magical for the next visitor.

47.6472° N, 122.3499° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Fremont Troll

An amazing stop that's worth giving yourself time to explore. Don't miss the hidden garden behind the Troll. The Volkswagen Beetle is real, its eye was originally made from a hubcap (now painted over), and local lore says someone's ashes were entombed inside the Bug. Fremont Troll Built in 1990 beneath Seattle's Aurora Bridge, the 18-foot-tall Troll was created to transform what had become a neglected space into a neighborhood landmark. Inspired by Scandinavian folklore, it famously clutches a real Volkswagen Beetle and has become one of Washington's most iconic public art installations.

47.6511° N, 122.3475° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Frog Rock

A cheerful roadside landmark created in 1971 by high-school sweethearts Bob and Ellen Green, who transformed a split boulder into a giant green frog. Look for its cowboy hat and the little ladybug keeping it company. Located near the intersection of Phelps Road and North Madison Avenue. Please pull over safely and respect the surrounding property.

47.6958° N, 122.5236° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Garbage Goat

This is a working sculpture with a powerful vacuum. One of Spokane's most iconic public art pieces has been happily eating trash since Expo '74. Designed by local artist and nun Sister Paula Mary Turnbull, the steel Garbage Goat uses a hidden vacuum system to "eat" small pieces of litter, turning cleaning up into a game. Created as part of the environmentally themed World's Fair, the sculpture quickly became a favorite with generations of visitors. It even sparked controversy when dairy goat farmers protested the idea that goats eat garbage! Today, the Garbage Goat remains one of Riverfront Park's most beloved attractions—and one of the most memorable ways to throw something away.

47.6606° N, 117.4198° W

Community Creations

Geneva Trinket Exchange

Bring a small item to trade at this Geneva Trinket exchange. Visit with Respect.

48.7424° N, 122.3933° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

George Washington Bust

It seems only fitting that the town of George would have a giant head of George Washington. Standing outside Shree's Truck Stop & Gas Station just off Interstate 90, this oversized bust welcomes travelers with a bit of roadside humor and hometown pride. The sculpture is a replica of a bust created by renowned sculptor Avard Fairbanks for the United States Bicentennial. While the original is located in Washington, D.C., this copy has become one of the town's most recognizable landmarks and a favorite stop for road-trippers crossing Eastern Washington

47.0832° N, 119.8601° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Giant Book Stack

This is a wonderful, oversized piece of art that we can all recognize, and fun for a picture and a trip to the library. A mammoth stack of books sits outside Library Place near the Everett Public Library. Created by Mukilteo-based Dillon Works, the literary sculpture cleverly disguises a utility transformer while making the surrounding city block look as though it belongs to a giant reader. Publicly visible from the sidewalk.

47.9812° N, 122.2102° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Giant Cal Hoyt Pencils

A wonderful piece of oversized sculpture of a popular school supply. Bright and great for a photo. Four enormous colored pencils stand at the corner of California Street and Hoyt Avenue in downtown Everett. Created by Mukilteo-based Dillon Works and installed in 2013, the 10-foot-tall sculpture weighs 505 pounds and is made from formed stainless steel finished with automotive paint. Look closely at the fictional “Cal Hoyt Pencil Co.” branding: the number 2802 refers to the sculpture’s street address. The fake pencil company name was created to avoid using a real trademark. Publicly visible from the sidewalk.

47.9806° N, 122.2102° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Giant Cedar Stump

Worth the stop—especially if you're already pulling into the rest area. It's a fun reminder of just how massive Washington's old-growth forests once were. Estimated to be more than 1,000 years old, this enormous western red cedar stump was moved to the Smokey Point Rest Area to showcase the incredible size of Washington's ancient forests. You can actually walk inside the hollow center, making it a quick but memorable roadside stop.

48.1687° N, 122.1892° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Giant Coffee Carafe Bar-Bob's Jave Jive

A quick, nostalgic stop that's pure roadside Americana. If you love quirky architecture, this one's worth the detour. Built in 1927, the Java Jive is one of Washington's most iconic roadside attractions. Shaped like a giant coffee pot, it's one of the few remaining examples of novelty architecture from the early automobile era and has been a beloved Tacoma landmark for generations. It's also appeared in films, including 10 Things I Hate About You.

47.2319° N, 122.4645° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Giant Lamp-Leafy Wader

One of Washington's newest and quirkiest public art installations. It's worth a stop, especially after dark when it glows. Leafy Wader – Federal Way Standing two stories tall outside the Downtown Federal Way light rail station, Leafy Wader is a whimsical illuminated glass desk lamp by artist Donald Lipski. Its name is an anagram of "Federal Way," and the sculpture pays tribute to the Pacific Northwest's world-renowned glass art tradition, inspired by artists like Dale Chihuly.

47.3175° N, 122.3048° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Giant Radio Flyer

Worth the visit! The Childhood Express – Giant Radio Flyer This enormous red wagon in Spokane’s Riverfront Park is more than a sculpture—you can climb inside and slide down its handle. Created by local artist Ken Spiering for Washington’s centennial celebration, The Childhood Express stands 12 feet tall, stretches 27 feet long and weighs approximately 26 tons. The interactive sculpture was dedicated to Spokane’s children in 1990 and remains free to visit and play on.

47.6605° N, 117.4189° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Giant Rooftop Saturn

Another piece of space for the Center of the Universe. Giant rooftop Saturn was created by Brian Regan."

47.6506° N, 122.3516° W

Nature & Adventure

Gilligan Falls

This is moderate hike up to beautiful Gilligan Creek Falls. About 1.7 miles with some elevation, through a clearcut and directly to the falls. Park on a small pullout next to a gate. Walk around the gate and you are on your way.

48.4766° N, 122.1470° W

Nature & Adventure

Gold Mine Trail

One of my favorite local hikes. Between the abandoned mine, old mining relics, and a backcountry cabin, it feels like stepping into a forgotten chapter of Whatcom County history. Gold Mine Trail – Sumas Mountain This forest trail leads to the remains of a late-1800s mining operation, where you'll find old mine entrances, rusted equipment, stone foundations, and other relics from an ambitious gold-mining venture that never struck it rich. For those who continue farther, the trail also passes a rustic backcountry cabin maintained by volunteers

48.9203° N, 122.2664° W

Film & Pop CultureGoonies House-Mike WalshPhotograph pending

Film & Pop Culture

Goonies House-Mike Walsh

This is worth the stop. Recently purchased by Goonies fans, this home had previously not welcomed fans. Since the sale, this couple has been busy de-renovating it to be just like the home in the film. I have a photo outside from 2006 that I cherish.Always visit with respect. This is still private property and the neighbors are not happy with the tourists, from what I read.

46.1929° N, 123.7997° W

Art & WonderGorst, WA

Gorst Rocket

Some roadside finds don't need much explanation. Along the highway in Gorst, a silver rocket rises unexpectedly beside the road—the kind of thing you catch out of the corner of your eye and immediately wonder, did I just see a rocket? Its origin is a little harder to pin down, which somehow makes it better. If you know the story behind the Gorst Rocket, I want to hear it.

47.5320° N, 122.6988° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Great Bellingham Boulder

Great stop for a photo and some thought about this giant Sandstone Formation. It isn't an glacial erratic, carried by glaciers and left behind, but a shaped standstone, to large to move and left behind during the formation of Bellingham. There are interesting marks in the side that mystify geological experts.

48.7525° N, 122.4774° W

History and Forgotten Places

Greenwood Cemetery

Hidden in the woods above South Cle Elum, Greenwood was used as a community cemetery from approximately 1903 to 1923. Persistent water seepage made the site unsuitable, and many—but not all—of its burials were later relocated to Laurel Hill Memorial Park. The remaining graves include old stone markers and burial sites that are no longer visibly marked. Researchers have used mapping and ground-penetrating radar to help document the historic cemetery. The cemetery is reached from Westside Road and has only a small roadside turnout. Look for the wooden Greenwood Cemetery sign. Please tread carefully and respectfully—the open ground may contain unmarked graves

47.1765° N, 120.9624° W

Art & Wonder

Guerilla Art Path

Quick stop to enjoy local art in this shortcut between center and cedar. Enjoy or contribute. Organized by Carolyn Lewis. Visit with respect.

48.1275° N, 122.7755° W

Film & Pop Culture

Hall of Justice Recording

This unassuming triangular building was home to Reciprocal Recording, where Nirvana recorded Bleach and Soundgarden recorded their debut EP, Screaming Life. It later became Hall of Justice, a studio owned by Death Cab for Cutie's Chris Walla, cementing its place in Seattle's music history.

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Places of MeaningHalls Lookout & LabyrinthPhotograph pending

Places of Meaning

Halls Lookout & Labyrinth

Field notes to come.

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Community Creations

Hank's Art Exchange

Bring a small piece of art to exchange at this art box. It is small and well curated. Always visit with respect.

48.7678° N, 122.4780° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Hat & Boots Park

This is a great little stop for a photo. Well maintained roadside pieces. I just wish the boot were still an open and functioning bathroom

47.5444° N, 122.3217° W

Spooky and Legends

Haunted Stanwood Hotel & Saloon

This is a great stop for food or refreshments. The bartenders are friendly and willing to discuss the haunting of the place. It has been toured by ghost hunters and featured in some shows. Allegedly, there are several ghosts that frequent the space, including a child and a woman who sings in French. The upstairs is no longer rented out, except for large parties as in a wedding. The original bar is not accessible to the public. At one point they pulled up the floor to inspect a sagging spot and they found an old carriage propping it up. It was moved to the local museum.

48.2415° N, 122.3709° W

History and Forgotten Places

Havekost Monument

Field notes to come.

48.4923° N, 122.6911° W

Spooky and Legends

Heaven's Gate Tile

Of all the thousands of tiles at Pike Place Market, this is the one that stopped me in my tracks. It's a tiny piece of history that raises far more questions than it answers. Walk through Pike Place Market and you'll find thousands of engraved tiles purchased during a 1985 fundraising campaign to help preserve the historic market. Among them is one that simply reads "Heaven's Gate – 6-8-85."

47.6096° N, 122.3424° W

Community CreationsHillman City Free Little Trinket LibraryPhotograph pending

Community Creations

Hillman City Free Little Trinket Library

Field notes to come.

47.5525° N, 122.2776° W

History and Forgotten Places

Historic Fire Bell Tower

Fully worth the walk up the stairs for amazing views. Built in 1890, this 75-foot wooden bell tower once alerted Port Townsend's volunteer firefighters with coded bell rings that identified the location and severity of fires. Today, it's one of the city's most recognizable historic landmarks and stands as one of the last surviving wooden fire bell towers of its kind in the United States, overlooking Port Townsend Bay

48.1150° N, 122.7585° W

History and Forgotten Places

Historic Fireman Memorial

This is right next to Sterling Drake's grave. Fireman's Statue – Mountain View Cemetery, Walla Walla This striking memorial was erected in the late 1800s in honor of Walla Walla's fallen firefighters. Unusually, it was funded by Josephine Wolfe, a successful local proprietress and madam whose generosity helped create one of the cemetery's most recognizable monuments. Josephine Wolfe is also buried at Mountain View Cemetery, connecting her own story to the memorial she helped bring to life. A fascinating stop for anyone interested in Walla Walla history, notable local figures, or the unexpected stories hidden within historic cemeteries.

46.0456° N, 118.3280° W

History and Forgotten Places

Historic Gamwell House

Worth thw stop for a photo of the most well preserved Victorian home in Bellingham. Truly a house worth haunting.It is also a Poké Stop!

48.7238° N, 122.4968° W

Art & Wonder

Hobbit Trail

1.5 mile round trip on the Iverson Preserve. The Hobbit Trail is full of hundreds of small and large hobbit figures. A magical little side quest.

48.2131° N, 122.4455° W

Community Creations

House of Small Things - A Creation of Found Washington

Created by Found Washington I created the House of Small Things because I've always believed tiny objects have a way of making people smile. My hope is that this little house becomes a place where strangers quietly create moments of wonder for each other, one tiny treasure at a time. The House of Small Things is a tiny community exchange built around one simple idea: leave a tiny treasure, take a tiny treasure. Inside you'll find miniature surprises like marbles, tiny figurines, dollhouse accessories, fairy treasures, small works of art, and other little curiosities. Visitors are invited to contribute something small of their own, creating an ever-changing collection shared by the community. Unlike a Little Free Library, this tiny house celebrates the joy of small objects and unexpected discoveries. Every visit is a little different, and every tiny treasure has the potential to make someone's day.

48.7232° N, 122.4968° W

History and Forgotten Places

Illuminated Falls and Gardens

Maybe one of the most magical places I have enjoyed. It's like an enchanted mermaid pool in Never Neverland. Bring a flashlight. Hidden behind the Gorge Powerhouse in Newhalem, Ladder Creek Falls and Gardens becomes an illuminated forest after dark. Cross the pedestrian suspension bridge over the Skagit River, pass the eerie green glow of the powerhouse and follow the garden trail and stairs alongside the falls. Colored lights reveal the waterfall one tier at a time. Seattle City Light superintendent J.D. Ross developed the gardens as a place where nature, electricity and spectacle could come together. The original attraction included elaborate plantings, colored lights and music. The modern LED light show continues that unusual legacy. The gardens are open year-round, and Seattle City Light currently lists the lights as operating daily from dusk until 11 p.m. Bring a flashlight or headlamp and wear shoes with good traction—the trail is extremely dark, with steep stairs and potentially wet surfaces. A damaged bridge currently prevents visitors from completing the full loop, but the illuminated falls can still be viewed by returning the way you came. Free to visit. No parking pass required. Check current conditions before traveling. Bring a flashlight!

48.6758° N, 121.2389° W

Art & Wonder

Intergalactic Plaza

Very Cool little plaza with a lot of detail. Don't forget to look up and you can see a humanoid form in one of the orbs. The Intergalactic Plaza was designed by Jessica Randall with the Fremont Arts Council.

47.6517° N, 122.3512° W

Spooky and LegendsIsaac Ebey's GravePhotograph pending

Spooky and Legends

Isaac Ebey's Grave

In Sunnyside Cemetery you can find Isaac Ebey's place of rest, within a white picket fence. A beautiful and very old cemetery.

48.2057° N, 122.7057° W

Community Creations

Issaquah Trinket Trade

Andrea's Tale=Bring something to trade. Always visit with respect

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History and Forgotten PlacesJacob & Sarah Ebey HousePhotograph pending

History and Forgotten Places

Jacob & Sarah Ebey House

Field notes to come.

48.2018° N, 122.7104° W

History and Forgotten Places

JD Ross Crypt

Absolutely worth the stop. A remarkable stone crypt built into a cliffside overlooking Newhalem. J.D. Ross, the visionary behind Seattle City Light's Skagit Project, and his wife Alice are buried here behind an ornate iron gate.

48.6748° N, 121.2431° W

Places of Meaning

Jimi Hendrix Memorial

Whether you're a lifelong fan or just appreciate music history, this is one of Washington's most meaningful memorials. It's peaceful, beautiful, and a reminder of the lasting impact one person can have on the world. Located at Greenwood Memorial Park in Renton, the Jimi Hendrix Memorial is the final resting place of one of the most influential guitarists in music history. The granite and bronze memorial features etched portraits of Hendrix beneath a striking domed canopy, with surrounding burial spaces for members of his family.

47.4865° N, 122.1740° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Jolly Green Giant on the Hill

High on the hillside overlooking Dayton stands Washington's own Jolly Green Giant. More than a roadside curiosity, this landmark honors the Green Giant cannery that shaped the town's economy for decades, processing peas and asparagus while providing jobs for generations of local families. The Giant visible today is actually the second version, rebuilt in 1993 after the original hillside figure deteriorated. Though the cannery is gone, local volunteers continue to maintain the Giant as a symbol of Dayton's agricultural heritage.

46.3078° N, 117.9998° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

JP Patches and Gertrude Statue site

If you grew up in Western Washington, this statue probably brings back a lot of memories. Even if you didn't, it's one of Fremont's most charming tributes to local history. Late for the Interurban (J.P. Patches & Gertrude) This bronze sculpture celebrates J.P. Patches and his faithful sidekick Gertrude, stars of one of America's longest-running locally produced children's television shows. Created by Washington sculptor Kevin Pettelle and unveiled in 2008, the statue commemorates the show's 50th anniversary. Located just steps from Fremont's famous Waiting for the Interurban sculpture, it's a nostalgic stop for generations of Washingtonians.

47.6493° N, 122.3486° W

Spooky and Legends

Kells Irish Restaurant & Pub

This is a great little stop that is right off of Pike Place. It's tucked away and comforting inside. I did not experience any ghostly presence but there are reports that spirits tilt picture frames and move things. This is the former site of Seattles Butterworth and Sons Mortuary.

47.6104° N, 122.3422° W

Community Creations

Keychain Exchange

Bring a Keychain to trade. Cute little box with some fun keychains.

48.8124° N, 122.4940° W

Film & Pop CultureKindergarten Cop School- John Jacob Astor ElementaryPhotograph pending

Film & Pop Culture

Kindergarten Cop School- John Jacob Astor Elementary

Great for a quikc photo. The former John Jacob Astor Elementary School, made famous as the school in Arnold Schwarzenegger's Kindergarten Cop (1990). Now a private apartment building, but still recognizable from the film. This is private property so visit with respect.

46.1919° N, 123.8037° W

Film & Pop Culture

Kurt Cobain Memorial Bench

This is a stop for reflection at Viretta Park. Often there is no place to sit on this bench as it is completely covered with flowers and letters. Curt Cobain used to sit here and enjoy the view. The former house is right next door.

47.6192° N, 122.2820° W

Film & Pop Culture

Kurt Cobain's Childhood Home

This is privately owned and must be visited with respect. The entire home is surrounded by a fence, but there is a QR code on the door that has more information.

46.9829° N, 123.8065° W

History and Forgotten Places

La Merced Breakwater

This si considered public access, but there are residence on the boats. Built in 1917, the La Merced was a four-masted schooner that hauled petroleum along the West Coast before serving as a floating cannery in Alaska. In 1966, the ship was intentionally beached and repurposed as a breakwater, where its weathered hull has since become overgrown with trees and vegetation. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it's one of Washington's most unusual maritime landmarks.

48.5110° N, 122.6465° W

Art & Wonder

Labyrinth

Lovely and quiet spiral labyrinth embedded in the ground. Follow along the creek and spend some time with your thoughts.

48.6184° N, 122.3407° W

Nature & Adventure

Ladder Creek Falls

Andrea Catrell-Magic falls that are tucked behind the Gorge Powerhouse. In the evening the falls are lit up. Left over from when there was a musical light show, designed by JD Rpss himself. You can see this place used to be splendid.

48.6755° N, 121.2395° W

Places of Meaning

Lady Of The Sea Statue

Field notes to come.

48.5108° N, 122.6063° W

Art & Wonder

Laputian Soldier Robot

This Laputian robot has been standing in this residential front yard since ~2014. Designed and built by Darrell Toland. Darrell sold this home but the current residence kept the robot outside for all to enjoy. Please visit with respect as this is a private residence. Follow at tumblr-@castleintheskyrobot

47.6780° N, 122.3929° W

Community Creations

Little Free Art Gallery

Bring a piece of art and trade for something else. Leave the Patrons and decorations. Always visit with Respect.

48.7605° N, 122.4998° W

Community Creations

Little Free Blockbuster

Fun stop if you love movies on DVD and VHS. I still have a huge collection! This is nostalgic in the best way. Bring a movie to trade and keep the fun going. Always visit with respect.

47.9945° N, 122.2093° W

Community Creations

Little Free Toy Exchange Marysville

Field notes to come.

48.0655° N, 122.1619° W

Community Creations

Little Free Yarn Shoppe

Bring some yard or other fiber to trade. This is a lovely yarn exchange that had an assortment of colors and even some knitting needles. IG for this company is @willowonthewater Always visit with respect to keep the exchange community thriving.

48.2193° N, 122.6839° W

Community Creations

Little Puzzle Exchange

This is an easy to miss puzzle exchange. Bring a puzzle to trade or share. It would be great to bring complete puzzles. There is a small sign on the sidewalk directing you to the exchange.

48.5126° N, 122.6243° W

Community Creations

Little Video Exchange

Bring a DVD to trade. Cute Vardo Wagon Style box. There is also a wishing tree in the same area, where you can tie a piece of colorful cloth on a hedge with a knot and make a wish. Always visit with Respect.

48.8554° N, 122.6041° W

Community Creations

Littlest Trinket Exchange

This is in the alley. A cute little trinket box attached to a well stocked community Food Pantry. Bring something to trade. Always visit with respect.

47.9956° N, 122.2034° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Lone T Rex

The cutest little dinosaur peeking out from someone's yard. Work a little stop to see this sculpture. A little prehistoric surprise near Penn Cove: a handmade-looking dinosaur sculpture standing in a residential yard—and right now, he's got an apple in his mouth. A perfect example of the unexpected roadside discoveries that make exploring Whidbey Island so much fun. Private property—please view from the public road and respect the residents.

48.2368° N, 122.7200° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Long Beach Mermaid

_She's quirky, a little unexpected, and exactly the kind of roadside oddity I love finding. If you're exploring Long Beach, she's worth a quick stop. Standing about 9 feet tall, this wooden mermaid was carved by local chainsaw artist Fred Bero in the 1980s. Over the years, she's become one of Long Beach's most recognizable pieces of public art and a favorite photo stop for visitors exploring the coast. Today, the mermaid continues to greet travelers as a reminder that some of Washington's most memorable attractions are wonderfully weird

46.3667° N, 124.0531° W

Nature & AdventureLongest Boardwalk in Washington State- Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife RefugePhotograph pending

Nature & Adventure

Longest Boardwalk in Washington State- Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

Field notes to come.

47.0817° N, 122.7196° W

Community Creations

Love Letter library

A tiny hidden gem that can completely change someone's day. Open the door, leave a note, or take one that's waiting for you. This charming little library is dedicated to handwritten notes instead of books. Visitors are invited to leave messages of encouragement, gratitude, or hope—and take a letter if they need a little kindness. It's a simple reminder that even small acts can have a big impact..

48.7527° N, 122.4927° W

Local Characters & Places

Mad Hatter's Ice Cream

Mad Hatter Ice Cream 👽🍦 One of Washington's quirkiest roadside stops, Mad Hatter Ice Cream is impossible to miss. A crashed UFO sits in the front yard, Bigfoot proudly holds a towering ice cream cone, colorful alien murals cover the buildings, and around back you'll find "Gary Town"—population: 1 human and 2 dogs. Owner Gary opened the shop in 2011 and filled it with his playful imagination. After struggling through the early years, an unexpected boost came in 2016 when Pokémon GO launched. With multiple PokéStops nearby, curious players flocked to the shop, helping keep it in business. Gary sold Mad Hatter Ice Cream in 2025, but its whimsical personality remains, making it a must-stop for anyone who loves roadside oddities, sci-fi, and places that don't take themselves too seriously. 👽🛸🍦

48.5171° N, 122.6097° W

Art & Wonder

Maiden of Deception Pass

Worth taking a small detour to one of the most beautiful parks. Sacred land to the Samish people. The Maiden of Deception Pass os carved to tell the story of Ko-Kwal-awloot, who sacrificed herself to save her people.

48.3930° N, 122.6474° W

Spooky and Legends

Manresa Castle

** Whether you're drawn by the architecture or the ghost stories, Manresa Castle is one of Washington's most iconic historic hotels. Even if you don't stay overnight, it's worth seeing. Built in 1892 as the grand home of Port Townsend's first mayor, Charles Eisenbeis, the castle later served as a Jesuit seminary before becoming a hotel. Today it's famous for its Victorian architecture, panoramic views, and decades of paranormal legends, including stories of a mysterious woman in white and an alleged ghostly monk—though some of the best-known haunting tales have since been acknowledged as local folklore rather than documented history.

48.1265° N, 122.7858° W

Nature & Adventure

Marine Life Center

One of Bellingham's best free attractions. It's small, hands-on, and a great place to get an up-close look at the incredible marine life of the Salish Sea. Marine Life Center – Bellingham Located at Squalicum Harbor, the Marine Life Center features touch tanks and live exhibits showcasing native sea stars, anemones, crabs, octopuses, and other Salish Sea creatures. Opened in the late 1980s, its mission is to inspire stewardship of local marine life through free education and interactive exhibits. The center is operated by the Port of Bellingham and admission is always free.

48.7573° N, 122.4956° W

History and Forgotten Places

Marineers Pageant Ampitheatre

This in an absolute wonder. Spend some time sitting and imaging the speedboats racing by before WWII changed everything. Visit with respect.

48.5157° N, 122.5989° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Mary Lou's Milk Bottle

If you love novelty architecture, this is a great stop. One of Spokane’s two giant milk-bottle buildings, constructed in 1935 as a retail store for the Benewah Creamery Company. This whimsical style is known as novelty or mimetic architecture—a building designed to resemble the product sold inside. The Garland District bottle is now home to Mary Lou’s Milk Bottle, a classic diner serving burgers, homemade ice cream and milkshakes. The building was badly damaged in a 2011 fire but was restored and reopened. Its nearly identical sister bottle can be found downtown on South Cedar Street

47.6936° N, 117.4234° W

Art & Wonder

Matzke Fine Art Gallery and Sculpture Garden

Take time to Wander and Wonder in this expansive Sculpture Garden. Gallery open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

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Art & Wonder

Meerkerk Gardens

A slow and beautiful wander. Take your time. Pay with a QR code. Go in May when the Rhodedendrons are blooming.

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Places of Meaning

Memorials and Viewpoints

I came to Mount Erie looking for an incredible view. I wasn't expecting to find memorials to two young people along the way. They changed the way I experienced this place, and they're worth noticing respectfully if you visit. Mount Erie rises more than 1,200 feet above Fidalgo Island and offers sweeping views across Anacortes, nearby islands and the surrounding mountains. You can drive nearly to the summit and reach several overlooks by short trails. Near one overlook is a stone memorial for Jonathan “Jon” Glass, a 13-year-old from Tacoma who died here in August 1992 after falling approximately 85 feet during a photo stop with a church group. Three Marines climbing nearby attempted to save him. Jon's family and friends later placed the memorial at Mount Erie. Written in his voice, it asks visitors to remember how quickly a single moment can change a life. At another overlook is a memorial bench for Jacob Calvin Jeter, a young boy who died in a floatplane accident on Lake Goodwin in 2011. Mount Erie is certainly worth visiting for its remarkable views, but these quiet memorials are a reminder that this mountain also holds deeply personal meaning for the families who chose to remember their loved ones here

48.4540° N, 122.6255° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Metallica Bridge

Field notes to come.

48.8458° N, 122.5880° W

Art & Wonder

Miniature House

This is likely a temporary exhibit. As of 7/9/26 it is there. It appears to be a guerilla art piece that is placed in a plexiglass box. This is becoming more popular. This is a small little house about that might fit a mouse, enclosed in a clear box with a small cone in front of it. It may be associated with Drayton Harbo Oysters. Very cute.

48.9940° N, 122.7517° W

Nature & Adventure

Miniature Train Rides-Depot Park

This is the best little train ride you can take in the Mountains. Take a free ride on this 7½-inch-gauge miniature live-steam railroad at Depot Park in Skykomish. The approximately 10-minute ride is operated by volunteers, with donations encouraged. The historic Great Northern Railway depot is right beside the train and now houses a museum about Skykomish’s railroad history. A fun and unexpected stop in the mountains. Strongly consider bring cash for donations so people can continue to experience this for years to come.

47.7086° N, 121.3598° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Muffler Man and Uniroyal Gal

Don't drive through Pomeroy too quickly. Along this quiet stretch of Highway 12, oversized figures, old signs, gas pumps and unusual vehicles start appearing on both sides of the road. It feels like stumbling across pieces of an older era of American highway travel. The most noticeable is Rainbow Man, a roughly 22-foot-tall vintage Muffler Man. These giant fiberglass figures became famous as attention-grabbing roadside advertising beginning in the 1960s. This particular giant traveled through several states before arriving in Pomeroy in 2018, where he later received his colorful rainbow makeover. Nearby is a Uniroyal Gal, another classic fiberglass advertising figure, originally created to promote Uniroyal tires. She reportedly arrived in Pomeroy around 2021. The giants are surrounded by a changing collection of vintage advertising signs, old gas pumps, vehicles and other pieces of roadside Americana. There have been additional giant figures here over the years, so what you find may be different from older photographs online. This is roadside viewing rather than a formal attraction; admire anything behind fences from public areas and respect private property.

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Art & Wonder

Muffler Men

Easy to spot from the road and worth a closer look at Melody Mufflers. A band of motorcycle muffler men made from salvaged metal parts. These quirky characters are built from old mufflers, motorcycle gas tanks and other pieces of machinery, turning discarded parts into an unexpected little piece of roadside art. A wonderfully weird example of the creativity hiding around Washington.

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Community Creations

Mug Exchange

Bring a mug to trade. The only mug exchange I am aware of. Nicely made and kept. Visit with respect.

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Community Creations

Mushroom Little Art Box

Field notes to come.

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Community Creations

Neighborhood Zoo

Quick visit to spot the handmade animals. This is a well done animal display of beautiful crafted cranes, cougars, and sloths. Look around in this yard and spot them all. Designed to be viewed from the road. No need to tresspass. This is private property so always visit with respect.

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History and Forgotten Places

Neil Tower

It's easy to drive right past this landmark, but once you know its story, you'll never look at it the same way. This little wooden tower is one of the last reminders of Oak Harbor's farming roots. The door is sometimes open and you can step inside to see some historical objects. Built in 1910, Neil Tower once held a 1,300-gallon water tank that supplied the nearby James Neil dairy farm. Standing about 50 feet tall beside the historic Roller Barn, it's one of Oak Harbor's oldest surviving structures and was the city's first property selected for its historic register. Although the surrounding farmland has disappeared, the tower remains a rare reminder of the area's agricultural past

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Oddities & Roadside AttractionsNeon Elephant's ChildPhotograph pending

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Neon Elephant's Child

Field notes to come.

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Oddities & Roadside AttractionsNeon Rapunzel in Fremont BridgePhotograph pending

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Neon Rapunzel in Fremont Bridge

Best seen at night. Look up as you cross the Fremont Bridge and you'll spot one of Seattle's most overlooked pieces of public art. Perched inside the bridge's northwest tower, a neon Rapunzel lets her glowing hair spill down the side of the structure. Created by local artist Rodman Miller and installed in the mid-1990s, the sculpture is paired with another neon artwork on the opposite tower inspired by Rudyard Kipling's How the Elephant Got Its Trunk. Together, they add a whimsical touch to one of Seattle's busiest drawbridges. They're especially beautiful at dusk or after dark, when the neon comes to life Found Washington Tip: While you're here, explore Fremont's public art—you'll also find the Troll, the Center of the Universe sign, the Saturn sculpture, and plenty of other curious surprises.

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Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Non-Sign II (Annie Han, 2010)

This Non-Sign II. It is a sculpture that you can't walk up to. It is in Blaine, WA on the US/CAN border, but owned by Canada. You can barely see it from Peace arch Park and you can't get a good look at it unless you are in a car coming back from Canada. You can't walk up to it, even with a passport. It is an unusual piece of art, but also impossible to enjoy unless you are stuck in border traffic.

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Spooky and LegendsNorthern State CemeteryPhotograph pending

Spooky and Legends

Northern State Cemetery

This isn't a spooky attraction—it's a place to quietly remember people who were too often forgotten. Please visit respectfully. Near the hospital grounds, this cemetery contains the graves of hundreds of former patients. Most were buried beneath small concrete markers identified only by initials and a number, many of which slowly disappeared beneath the soggy ground over time. Thanks to dedicated volunteers, many of these markers have been relocated and documented, helping restore the identities and stories of those buried here.

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Spooky and Legends

Northern State Hospital

One of the most fascinating places in Washington. The sprawling campus is beautiful, eerie, and packed with history—just remember the buildings are closed, so stick to the trails and roads. Opened in 1912, Northern State Hospital was once Washington's largest psychiatric hospital, caring for more than 2,000 patients at its peak. The campus was designed using the innovative "colony plan," with Spanish Colonial Revival buildings surrounded by farms and landscapes created by the Olmsted Brothers. Today, visitors can explore the grounds, admire the historic architecture, and hike or bike through what is now the Northern State Recreation Area.

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Places of Meaning

Northern State Wind Phone

One of the most meaningful places I have found in WA. You don't have to find the words. Follow the trails to North Knoll Trail within Northern State Recreation Area

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History and Forgotten Places

Old Bellingahm Trolley

Quick Stop and photo. This is an example of an old trolley that used to transport people all over Bellingham, Whatcom, Sehome, and Fairhaven when trolleys were the main source of transportation.

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History and Forgotten Places

Old Mine Site or Old Blewett Stamp Mill

Immediately off of the main road. IThis may be former mine entrance. My intention was to see remnants of Blewett Stamp Mill, but the site I found is more like Mine entrance. There is some older foundations, but this had no historical recognition.

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History and Forgotten Places

Old Number 5

Great stop for a photo. You can even get inside this. She did a lot of work building the dam.

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Oddities & Roadside AttractionsOld Pullman CarPhotograph pending

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Old Pullman Car

Private Property

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History and Forgotten Places

Oldest Brick Building in Washington

Absolutely worth a visit. Whatcom County Territorial Court House is the oldest brink building in Washington State. Each brick was supposedly made and fired in CA and shipped up. It has been many businesses in the past, including a courthouse, and taxidermy shop, and now a private museum for which you can schedule tours.

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Places of Meaning

Oso Slide Memorial

This is a stop that deserves time and reflection. Each victim of the slide is memorialized beautifully in this butterfly garden. The landslide site in the background is a hard thing to see. It is informative as well, describing how the slide happened. Hearting breaking but beautifully curated.

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Community Creations

Phinney Blockbuster

Free Blockbuster sitting on this shady street. Take one, leave one, return. Visit responsibly.

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Places of Meaning

Phone of the Wind

Andrea"s Take- A wind phone to call the ones you miss and love. A red phone hanging on a tree in the meditation garden at Whatcom hospice. Give yourself the time you need.

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Places of Meaning

Phone Of the Wind

A quiet place to talk to a loved one or journal a memory. You can also leave a memorial stone in the garden. A wind phone at the tip of Country Charm Park

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Art & Wonder

Pia the Peacekeeper Troll

Fantastical and wonderful. Take the ferry and enjoy the day on Bainbridge Island. Pia the Peacekeeper is an 18-foot-tall wooden troll tucked into Sakai Park on Bainbridge Island. Copenhagen-based artist Thomas Dambo created Pia in 2023 using recycled and locally gathered materials, including donated wooden pallets. Pia is one of six sculptures in Northwest Trolls: Way of the Bird King, a Pacific Northwest troll trail created by Dambo with the help of local volunteers. Her message asks visitors to “keep the peace beneath the trees.” Follow the park trail to find her. There is also a geocache hidden nearby for anyone who enjoys an additional treasure hunt.

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History and Forgotten Places

Pickett House

Worth a stop if you enjoy local history. It's a small but significant landmark that helps tell the story of Bellingham's beginnings> Built in 1856, the Pickett House is the oldest surviving home in Bellingham and one of the oldest wooden homes in Washington. Once home to Captain George Pickett—who later became a Confederate general—it offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's earliest pioneer days.

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Community Creations

Poetry Box

Poetry and inspiration updated daily. Visit with respect.

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Community Creations

Pottery Art & Seed Exchange

Bring seeds or ceramic to exchange. This is a beautiful exchange fashioned to look like an old wash board. Inside you will find hand made magnets, bowls, and other lovely items Please visit with respect.

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Art & Wonder

Price Sculpture Forest

Whimsical sculpture forest that is compact and accessible. Be sure to always look up in the trees so not to miss anything special. By donation.

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Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Purple Giraffe House

Quick Stop for a photo. This is a private residence known as the giraffe house and loved by the community. It is now painted purple and easy to spot. Visit with Respect.

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Community Creations

Puzzle Exchange

Field notes to come.

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Community CreationsQueen Anne Keychain & Trinket LibaryPhotograph pending

Community Creations

Queen Anne Keychain & Trinket Libary

Field notes to come.

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Nature & Adventure

Rock Trail

15 minute drive up Cleator Road takes you to a gorgeous overlook and an empty parking lot. There are bathrooms. Following the Rock Trail signs and be prepared to be amazed. The immensity of the rocks and the lovely ferned trail is unmatched. Evidence of Glacial activity carved in the rock. Large pockets in the sandstone made by ancient algae when this place was sea level. Take the hike. Not accessible.

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Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Rocket Sculpture

Rocket Donuts Rocket 🚀 Long after Rocket Donuts closed in 2019, its iconic retro rocket still stands on West Holly Street as one of Bellingham's most recognizable pieces of public art. Designed by local artist Alexei Ford from repurposed materials, the Buck Rogers/Flash Gordon-inspired rocket became a landmark for the sci-fi-themed donut shop. It was temporarily removed for restoration before returning to downtown in 2022, where it continues to delight fans of retro-futurism and roadside Americana. Rocket Donuts wasn't just space-themed because it looked cool. It was co-created by Jim Swift, who collaborated with R.W. Goodwin, the longtime executive producer/director of The X-Files, on the 2009 sci-fi film Alien Trespass. Their shared love of 1950s science fiction heavily influenced Rocket Donuts' retro-futuristic theme

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History and Forgotten Places

Roller Barn

The Roller Barn is pure nostalgia. What started as a dairy barn became generations of Friday night memories, and it's still one of Oak Harbor's most beloved landmarks. Originally built in 1912 as the James Neil dairy barn, the massive wooden structure was converted into a roller-skating rink in 1950. For decades, it was the place where Whidbey Islanders came to skate, dance, celebrate birthdays, and hang out with friends. Today, the Roller Barn continues to host roller skating, community events, and seasonal haunted attractions, while preserving one of Oak Harbor's most iconic historic buildings. The adjacent Neil Tower and Roller Barn together are lasting reminders of the city's agricultural past and community spirit

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Local Characters & Places

Rubber Chicken Museum

This might be one of the funniest stops in Washington. It's completely free, takes just a few minutes to explore, and somehow makes you appreciate the humble rubber chicken. World's Largest Rubber Chicken Museum Located inside Seattle's iconic Archie McPhee novelty store, the World's Largest Rubber Chicken Museum celebrates one of comedy's most recognizable props. The free museum features hundreds of rubber chickens from around the world, vintage designs, unusual collectibles, and exhibits that trace the history and evolution of the rubber chicken. Whether you're a fan of quirky museums or just looking for a laugh, it's a uniquely Seattle experience that's unlike anywhere else.

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Spooky and Legends

Rucker Mansion

. Quick stop. Park in the neighborhood and walk past so you can take in the house and the view. Maybe you'll see Jane Rucker in one of the windows.

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Spooky and Legends

Rucker Tomb

One of the most striking monuments in Washington. Hidden among the trees of Evergreen Cemetery, this massive granite pyramid feels completely out of place—in the best way. Built in 1908–1909, the Rucker Tomb is a 30-foot-tall granite mausoleum honoring Jane Rucker and the family who helped found the city of Everett. Perched on one of the highest points in Evergreen Cemetery, its pyramid-like design has made it one of Washington's most recognizable cemetery landmarks and the subject of countless local ghost stories over the years

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Community Creations

Seashell & Rock Exchange

Bring a shell or rock to trade at this little exchange.

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Art & Wonder

Seattle Map Hatch Cover

Find all of the Map Hatch Covers in my interactive hunt. Seattle Map Hatch Cover — Anne Knight (1970) Look down! This unusual utility cover is actually a miniature map of Seattle. Designed by artist Anne Knight in 1970, the map shows the city’s street grid and landmarks, and a small steel marker indicates where this particular cover sits on the map. The design has become a tiny time capsule—the Kingdome is still shown, even though it was demolished in 2000. Want to find the rest? I made a separate hunt map with the 14 known locations. Find it through the link right here, https://tr.ee/GGSb63UMts

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Art & Wonder

Seattle Map Hatch Cover

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Art & Wonder

Seattle Map Hatch Cover

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Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Seattle World's Fair Bubbleator

A fun piece of Seattle history that's easy to miss. Even though the Bubbleator is gone, it's worth stopping to imagine one of the World's Fair's quirkiest attractions. Bubbleator Site – Seattle "Please move to the Rear of the Sphere." Built for the 1962 Seattle World's Fair, the Bubbleator was a transparent, bubble-shaped elevator that carried visitors into the futuristic "World of Tomorrow" exhibit. Although the Bubbleator no longer exists, the site remains a nostalgic stop for fans of Seattle history and World's Fair oddities.

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Nature & Adventure

Sehome Arboretum View Tower

One of the best views in Bellingham. The climb is worth it, and the historic tunnel along the way makes the hike even better. Sehome Arboretum Observation Tower – Bellingham Rising 80 feet above Sehome Hill, this wooden observation tower offers sweeping views of Bellingham Bay, the San Juan Islands, and, on clear days, Mount Baker. The tower sits within the 175-acre Sehome Hill Arboretum, where miles of forested trails and the historic 1923 Huntoon Tunnel make it one of the city's most popular hiking destinations

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Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Sentinel and Archimedean Solids Sculpture

I love when public art tells a bigger story. Sentinel isn't meant to stand alone—it was designed as part of a pair. Created by artist T. Ellen Sollod in 2009, Sentinel is a striking steel sculpture at Bay and Holly in downtown Bellingham. It was installed alongside Archimedean Solids, a companion artwork inspired by the geometric forms first described by the ancient mathematician Archimedes. Together, the two sculptures transform this small plaza into an open-air gallery celebrating both art and mathematics.

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Film & Pop CultureShort Circut Movie HousePhotograph pending

Film & Pop Culture

Short Circut Movie House

Quick stop for a recognizeable photo from a classic 80s movie. The Victorian home featured in the 1986 film Short Circuit, where Johnny 5 found friendship and adventure. A fun stop for fans of classic '80s movies. This is a priv

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Local Characters & Places

Skagit Valley Bigfoot Museum

This is one of those places that's impossible not to smile in. Every carving, statue, and display reflects decades of one man's passion for Bigfoot, and he's happy to share it with anyone who stops by. Founded more than 15 years ago, this donation-based museum is the lifelong passion project of Mike Vail following retirement. For decades, he's carved Bigfoot statues and assembled an impressive collection of Sasquatch artwork, memorabilia, books, and artifacts from across the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're a true believer or just curious, it's a fun stop celebrating one of Washington's most enduring legends.

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Places of Meaning

Small Chape-Foot of the Cross

I like the idea of these small chapels, set aside for truck drivers and those who are completing or starting the dangerous pass. Tucked beside Twin Peaks Food & Gas is a tiny blue chapel that many travelers pass without noticing. Known as At the Foot of the Cross Chapel, it offers a quiet place for prayer and reflection just off Interstate 90. The chapel appears to be connected with Transport for Christ, a ministry serving truck drivers and travelers. Whether you're religious or simply curious, it's an unexpected sight at a busy highway stop

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Art & Wonder

Solstice Dial

Beautifully crafted sundial that is elaborate and functional. Created by Chuck Nafziger. This is right next to a pollinator garden and stone labyrinth.

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Nature & Adventure

South Campus Pond-WWU

This is such a surprise. One small bench and grass on the other side, this is a lovely addition to an educational space. It's a special oasis on Campus that you can also walk to, even if you aren't currently a student.

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History and Forgotten Places

South Cle Elum Depot

This is such a good stop because there's more here than I expected. Grab something from the little café inside the restored depot, then head outside and wander the old rail yard. We had peanut butter cookies and blended lemonades and would absolutely stop again. Built in 1909, the South Cle Elum Depot was an important division point for the Milwaukee Road, where crews changed and locomotives were added or removed from trains traveling between Chicago and Tacoma. The depot's original beanery, once used to feed railroad workers and travelers, is now home to Division Point Coffee & Crepes. According to staff, the stools along the old counter are original. Attached to the café is a free railroad museum operated by volunteers with the Cascade Rail Foundation. Museum hours are limited—typically Saturdays, noon–4 p.m., May through September, so check before making a special trip. Even when the museum is closed, you can explore the historic rail yard on a short interpretive loop. Look for the remains of the old roundhouse, which could service eight steam locomotives, and the 85-foot turntable that railroad workers once turned by hand. The trains may be gone, but the route isn't. The former Milwaukee Road corridor is now part of the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail.

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Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Spaceship Bus Stop

Quick stop for a photo. This was made as a bus stop shelter for children many years ago. It is now a recognize sculpture that is unique and fun. Visit with respect.

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Places of Meaning

Spirit of America 9/11 Memorial

This is an emotional place and beautiful memorial for those lost on September 11, 2001. The 9/11 Spirit of America Memorial was dedicated in 2015 as a permanent place of remembrance for those killed and those who responded on September 11, 2001. The memorial contains structural steel from the 60th floor of one of the Twin Towers, limestone from the façade of the Pentagon, and a rock from the field where Flight 93 crashed, on permanent loan from the National Park Service. Nearly eleven-foot granite towers and additional monuments bear the names of those killed in New York, aboard the four aircraft, and at the Pentagon. Four life-sized bronze figures surround an empty pair of footprints where visitors may stand and complete the circle. A Callery pear honors the Survivor Tree recovered from Ground Zero. Located in Riverside Park at 201 Riverside Drive, Cashmere, Washington. Please visit quietly and respectfully.

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Spooky and Legends

St. Ignatius Hospital

Be sure to book a ticket at St Ignatius Tours online if you want to go inside this amazing old hospital. St. Ignatius Hospital was built in 1893 by the Sisters of Charity, now the Sisters of Providence. It served as a hospital until 1968, when the aging facility was replaced by Whitman Community Hospital. The building reopened in 1970 as St. Ignatius Manor, housing elderly and developmentally disabled adults until closing in 2003. After years of vacancy and deterioration, it was named one of Washington’s most endangered historic properties in 2015. The building was purchased by Austin and Laura Storm in 2021, and preservation efforts continue with support from the Whitman County Historical Society. Official historical tours and ghost hunts are offered throughout the year. This is private property. Do not enter the building or grounds without a ticket to an authorized event. Check current tour availability before traveling.

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Spooky and Legends

Sterling Drake-X Headstone

One of the most beautiful cemeteries I have been in. This headstone is so easy to find. Right inside the gate and take a right. One of Washington's most recognizable and thought-provoking graves, this X-shaped monument was designed by Sterling Hallard Bright Drake years before his death. Rejecting the traditional cross, Drake filled the stone with symbols and messages that reflected his beliefs, including the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse and an engraved rocket named Excalibur, honoring his lifelong interest in rocketry. His beloved schnauzer, Lady Guinevere, is also memorialized on the monument. Perhaps the most poignant detail is that one face of the monument was intentionally left blank. Drake planned to add one final inscription but never chose the words before his death in 2018. Today, the memorial stands as one of the most unusual—and deeply personal—headstones in Washington.

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Art & Wonder

Sticks & Stones Farm

You can't miss this from the road. There are oversized stone snails, a triceratops, and a Stonehenge on this corner lot. The sign reads Sticks and Stones Farm. A historic Bainbridge Island farm and working studio filled with enormous stone snails, dinosaurs, puzzles and other wonderfully unexpected creatures created by self-taught sculptor Ethan Currier. Ethan shapes locally gathered stone by hand, joining pieces with concealed steel to create sculptures meant to be touched, climbed on, wondered about and lived with. His recognizable stone snails can be spotted in yards and public spaces around Bainbridge Island. Sticks and Stones Farm participates in the free, self-guided Bainbridge Island Studio Tour, held twice each year. The 2026 Winter Studio Tour is scheduled for December 4–6, from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. each day. Important: This is a private residence and working farm, not an everyday drop-in attraction. Visit only during an advertised public studio tour or through an appointment arranged directly with the artist. Confirm tour dates and access before traveling.

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Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Stone Elephant

One of Whidbey's most beloved roadside oddities. If you're driving by, it's worth slowing down for a photo. This life-size fiberglass elephant has become a local landmark after moving to several locations around Whidbey Island over the years. Today, it stands in a pasture near Dugualla Bay, continuing to surprise travelers exploring the island.

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Art & Wonder

Storybook House

This is a beautiful stop, but that is all it is. A photo opportunity of a beautiful example of a thatched roofed cottage, like those in the Cotswalds. This is a private residence. Always visit with respect and do not Tresspass.

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History and Forgotten Places

Stump House & 700 year old tree cross section-Stillaguamish Valley Pioneer Museum

This is a fascinating example of how some people lived when they moved into Washington. The Stillaguamish Valley Pioneer Museum preserves the history of communities along the north and south forks of the Stillaguamish River. Outside the museum, visitors can see a remarkable stump house made from an enormous old-growth tree, a massive fir cross-section and a relocated pioneer cabin. Inside are exhibits covering the region’s logging, railroad and pioneer history. The museum is generally open Saturdays from 1–4 p.m., except fifth Saturdays, and closes from Thanksgiving through February. Special tours are available by appointment. Admission is currently $5 for adults and $2 for children 12 and younger. Hours and admission may change, so verify before visiting.

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Art & Wonder

Sunset Alley- Art Alley

Best to view in the daylight. A bright surprise that you might not notice unless you were looking. A two-block downtown alley transformed into an outdoor art gallery, with murals, sculptures and installations by local and regional artists. Start at the popular “I love you more” photo wall and wander the full length of the alley to discover more artwork along the way, including the Coast Salish Living Mural at the future home of Children of the Setting Sun.

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Film & Pop Culture

Superior Portland Cement Silos

Great for a photo. These silos are interesting not only because they represent the cement history of this town, which used to be Cement City, but because Warner Brothers Productions painted the Welcome to Concrete in preparation for the feature film "This Boys Life'Starring Robert Deniro and Leonardo Dicaprio.

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History and Forgotten Places

Swallwell Cottage

If you love old architecture and history, this is a good stop for a photo. Built in 1891–1892, the Swalwell Cottage is one of Everett's oldest surviving homes and one of the city's first buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Designed by architect Frederick A. Sexton. Private Residence.

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Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Teapot Dome Service Station

Definitely worth a stop to see a unique and preserved structure. Built in 1922, this whimsical teapot-shaped gas station wasn't built to sell tea—it was built as a tongue-in-cheek reference to the Teapot Dome Scandal, a major political corruption scandal involving federal oil reserves during the Harding administration. The station operated as a real gas station for decades before being relocated to save it from freeway construction. Today it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places and includes vintage gas pumps, historic outbuildings, and a small visitor center/gift shop when open.

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Nature & Adventure

Ted Edwards Park

A quick stroll to wander through this lovely neighborhood park. Nestled between Lowe and Oriental, with access on both sides, brings you to a creek and a river rock shelter. Each stone brought to the area in Ted Edwards VW bus from the Skagit. If you look all around the area, you can see more evidence of these stones. Ted was building a community and was instrumental in bring water to Geneva.

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Community Creations

Teeny Tiny Trinket Club

Bring something to trade at this cute little Trinket Exchange. Always visit with responsibly and with respect. Follow them on IG @teenytinytrinketclub

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Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Temple of Power

One of the coolest hidden art installations in the North Cascades. It's easy to miss, but if you're already exploring Newhalem, it's absolutely worth seeking out. Temple of Power – Newhalem Created by artist Dan Corson in 2000, the Temple of Power is a whimsical gazebo built from recycled electrical components salvaged from Seattle City Light's hydroelectric system. Inspired by the Roman Pantheon, it celebrates Newhalem's history as the company town that helped power Seattle

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Nature & Adventure

Tennant Lake Park-Boardway and Tower

Field notes to come.

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Spooky and Legends

The Bentley Graves (The 3 Witches)

These markers are strange even before you know the legend. Look closely at the hands, the dates and the names—then look for Lida's actual grave nearby. The unusual Bentley family markers at Mountain View Cemetery inspired a local legend that Pardon and Lida Bentley were witches. Stories claimed the concrete imprisoned their souls, the downward-pointing hands condemned them to hell, and even the unfinished date on Pardon's marker became part of the lore. The documented history is different. Pardon Bentley was a cemetery sexton, and the downward-pointing hands are a traditional funerary symbol representing God reaching down to lift the deceased to heaven. Pardon reportedly had a difficult relationship with the stonemason who created the monument. After Pardon died, the mason never completed his death date—giving rise to the story that the stonemason got the last laugh. Their young son C.S. Bentley, who died in 1885, is memorialized here but cemetery records indicate he is not buried beneath this monument. Lida and Pardon later separated. She remarried and lived until 1926, when she was buried nearby under her later name, Lida Farlow. That leaves Lida with two markers in the same cemetery—but only one actual grave. A wonderfully strange example of how unusual cemetery symbolism, incomplete information and time can turn history into legend.

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Oddities & Roadside Attractions

The Blue Door Theatre Milk Bottle

If you love novelty architecture this is a great stop.The downtown counterpart to Spokane’s Garland District milk bottle. Both were constructed in 1935 as attention-grabbing retail stores for the Benewah Creamery Company, although plans reportedly called for as many as six. After housing several different businesses and sitting vacant for stretches of time, the historic South Cedar Street bottle became the home of Blue Door Theatre in 2024. It now welcomes visitors for improv performances, classes and special events. Check the theater’s schedule before visiting if you would like to see the inside. Its sister bottle on Garland Avenue is now Mary Lou’s Milk Bottle diner.

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History and Forgotten Places

The Codger Pole

Standing 65 feet tall, the Codger Pole is one of the world's largest chainsaw-carved sculptures of human figures. It commemorates an extraordinary small-town story: the 1938 Armistice Day football game between Colfax and neighboring St. John, and the rematch held 50 years later between the surviving players. The monument features the carved faces of all 51 participants, transforming a friendly rivalry into one of Washington's most unique roadside landmarks. It's a celebration of community, sportsmanship, and the memories that last a lifetime.

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History and Forgotten Places

The Davis Blockhouse

Great stop in the Sunnyside cemetery. The door is wide open and you can wander inside to take a closer look, unlike the Crockett Blockhouse which is locked.

48.2061° N, 122.7067° W

Spooky and Legends

The Death Bed & Angel Eyes

Quck stop for a photo of two of the most well known structures in Bayview Cemetery.. Death Bed – This elaborate monument belonged to lumberman Edmund Gaudette. The stone "bed" appears empty because his second wife was ultimately buried in Seattle instead of beside him. Local legend says that if you lie on the empty side, you'll become his bride—or invite bad luck. Angel Eyes – The striking angel marking the Bland family grave is one of Bayview Cemetery's most recognizable monuments. Local legend claims the angel's eyes glow or follow visitors after dark, though there's no evidence beyond the enduring folklore.

48.7502° N, 122.4436° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

The Fremont Rocket

Very cool piece of military aircraft. Built from the tail boom of a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar, this 53-foot retro sci-fi rocket has watched over Fremont since 1994. It proudly displays the Fremont coat of arms and the Latin motto "De Libertas Quirkas"—"Freedom to Be Peculiar"—a fitting symbol for Seattle's self-proclaimed Center of the Universe.

47.6506° N, 122.3512° W

Oddities & Roadside AttractionsThe Gum WallPhotograph pending

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

The Gum Wall

Field notes to come.

47.6084° N, 122.3403° W

Spooky and Legends

The Haunted Hub Bar

Must stop when you find yourself in Concrete. This historic town is eerie on it's own, but the Hub Bar has some interesting history and lore. Architecturally it features a 30-foot, single-plank mahogany backbar that was transported to town in 1912. It is well-known as the longest single-plank bar in the state. The staff also says there is a spirit ther named Hank. There is even a photo hanging on the wall showing his image in the background. He likes to knock over beer, especially the non alcoholic brands.

48.5387° N, 121.7465° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

The Lightcatcher-Nocturnal Lanterns

Nocturnal Lanterns ✨🦉 Found along the alley-facing side of the Whatcom Museum Lightcatcher building, these illuminated steel lanterns transform an ordinary alley into a magical nighttime art walk. Created by Sparks Design and the Femme Metal Collective, the installation features hand-cut lanterns inspired by nocturnal animals of the Cascadia bioregion. Installed in January 2026 as part of Bellingham's Downtown Activation and Beautification program, the colorful lights are designed to brighten the alley while celebrating the wildlife that comes alive after dark. They're worth seeing both during the day—but especially at night, when the lanterns glow with prismatic light. Best seen at night in the alley between Flora and Central, mounted art on the outside of the Whatcom Museum-Light Catcher.

48.7530° N, 122.4788° W

Art & Wonder

The Living Room

I found this completely by accident. From a distance, I genuinely thought someone had left their furniture in the park. Then I got closer and realized the couch, chair, tables—and even the lamp—are made of concrete. It's weathered and graffitied today, but once you know why it's here, the whole park makes sense. Ballard Corners Park opened in 2009 after neighborhood residents worked for years to transform two former lots into a community park. On one lot once stood a Victorian home. Artist Nathan Arnold created The Living Room, a collection of concrete furniture that preserves the memory of the house that once occupied the site. The neighboring lot held Bill Boutin's corner grocery store, representing the small neighborhood markets once common throughout Ballard. That history is remembered on the other side of the park with a Corner Store installation, complete with soda-fountain-style counters and stools and historic neighborhood photographs. What initially looks like a strange collection of concrete furniture is really a little park designed around the memory of what used to be here.

47.6741° N, 122.3792° W

Film & Pop Culture

The Morgan Horse Ranch-The Ring Horror

This is a quick and respectful stop for a photo at the location of the infamous Morgan Horse Ranch from the Horror Movie the Ring. Many locations shot in and around Washington State. No trespassing. This is Private Property.

47.8700° N, 121.9199° W

Art & Wonder

The Museum of Un-Natural History

This is one of the most imaginative places I've found in Washington. It's whimsical, mechanical, surreal, funny and occasionally completely baffling. Give yourself time to wander and look closely. Admission is free, but bring some cash for the donation hat—I'd really love to see this little museum survive.Hidden upstairs on Main Street in Walla Walla, the Museum of Un-Natural History was created by artist and actor Gerald "Gerry" Matthews.Matthews had a long career in entertainment, appearing on Broadway and television and spending decades as the voice of Sugar Bear. His wife, actress Pat Stanley, had an impressive Broadway career of her own, winning the 1959 Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for Goldilocks.The couple retired to Walla Walla in 1989, where Matthews began creating assemblages and mechanical works from old wood, machine parts and found objects. Eventually, he had enough work to need somewhere to put it. In 2001, the Museum of Un-Natural History opened.Influenced by Dada, surrealism, satire and absurdity, Matthews wanted visitors to do more than simply look at art. His work was intended to make people think, laugh, question—and occasionally become a little annoyed.Gerry died in 2025 at age 94, but his wonderfully strange little museum remains. Family and local volunteers have worked to keep it open, and admission is still free.Hours are very limited: currently Saturdays, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Check current hours before making a special trip.And bring cash if you'd like to help. The wonderfully low-tech donation system is a hat marked “ALMS,” a tradition that goes back to Gerry himself.

46.0666° N, 118.3399° W

Spooky and Legends

The Oxford Saloon

This is worth the stop! Housed in a building dating to 1900, the Oxford Saloon began as Blackman's Dry Goods Store before becoming a saloon around 1910. Over the years it has also been rumored to have operated as a speakeasy and bordello, earning a reputation as one of Washington's most haunted bars. Today, visitors come for both the history—and the ghost stories.

47.9111° N, 122.0940° W

Film & Pop Culture

The Ring Horror Film Location-'Shelter Mountain'

This is private property for Camp Firwood, but is known for being location for the Horror Film the Ring. Part of the road toward the lake is shown with the sign leading to Shelter Mountain, where the cabin holding the cursed tape and well were found. You can also see a clip from the Lake, looking back at the camp in some versions. No trespassing.

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Film & Pop Culture

The Ring Tree

Quick stop for a picture with one of the famous trees from the Horror Movie the Ring. This is the tree where Anna Morgan is shown falling into the sea. Extremely recognizable and weathered. You need a Discover Pass for time in the Park.

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Community Creations

The Rose Little Free Art Gallery

Bring Something to trade. Located outside of Rose Gift House and Coffee-

47.4802° N, 122.2041° W

Local Characters & PlacesThe SpheresPhotograph pending

Local Characters & Places

The Spheres

Field notes to come.

47.6157° N, 122.3395° W

Spooky and Legends

The Starrett House

Built in 1889 as a wedding gift from George Andrea's Take-This is another historic stop you can put on your Port Townsend itinerary. However, you can't just wander in. Starrett to his wife Ann, this Victorian masterpiece is famous for its free-floating spiral staircase and unique solar calendar ceiling. It's also considered one of Port Townsend's most haunted homes, with visitors and former innkeepers reporting sightings of a mysterious red-haired woman believed by some to be Ann herself. Whether you believe the stories or not, it's one of the city's most fascinating landmarks.

48.1179° N, 122.7580° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

The Stevedore Muffler Man

This is a roadside attraction that has some interesting history. Stevendore Muffler man was originally designed in the 1960s by Steve Dashew's International Fiberglass Company. While the intention was to sell oil, the giants were repurposed to hold all kinds of items, including mufflers. This particular statue has been named "Ralph". He has held footballs, mufflers, and other seasonal items.

47.9791° N, 122.2152° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

The Wall of Death

This one may not be worth the side quest unless you are already wandering near by. Located beneath Seattle's University Bridge, Wall of Death is a large public sculpture created by artists Mowry Baden and Colin Baden in 1993. Inspired by the famous carnival motorcycle stunt of the same name, the curved concrete installation was designed to evoke the dramatic vertical riding arenas once found at traveling fairs. Over the years, the sculpture also became a popular destination for skateboarders. Today, it is enclosed by chain-link fencing, and concrete barriers have been added to the sloped surface, making it difficult to experience the artwork as it was originally intended. While it may not be worth a trip on its own, it's an interesting stop for anyone exploring Seattle's public art or walking the nearby Burke-Gilman Trail.

47.6552° N, 122.3185° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

The Whale on the Wharf

At the end of Taylor Street, a complete 42-foot gray whale skeleton hangs above Union Wharf. Nicknamed Gunther, the whale washed ashore near Port Ludlow in 2019. After a necropsy, his bones were cleaned and reconstructed through a multiyear community effort. The outdoor display is free and accessible 24 hours a day—and illuminated after dark. Interpretive signs tell Gunther’s story and explain the unusual rise in gray whale deaths along the Pacific Coast.

48.1133° N, 122.7557° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Three Billy Goats Gruff

This is a fun additional piece to enrich the story of the Troll under the bridge. Just a short walk from Seattle's famous Fremont Troll, you'll find three small bronze goats crossing Troll Avenue. These sculptures pay tribute to the classic Norwegian folktale "The Three Billy Goats Gruff," the story of three clever goats who must cross a bridge guarded by a hungry troll. Their placement isn't random. The Fremont Troll, installed in 1990 beneath the Aurora Bridge, was inspired by that same Scandinavian story. Together, the goats and the troll create a playful public art experience that celebrates Fremont's Nordic roots and its reputation for quirky, imaginative art. The neighborhood's strong Scandinavian heritage made the fairy tale a fitting inspiration for one of Seattle's most iconic sculptures.

47.6502° N, 122.3471° W

History and Forgotten Places

Tin Slag from Old Cannery

What looks like a small rocky island beside Taylor Dock isn't a natural formation at all. Tin Slag Rock was created over a century ago when a nearby salmon cannery swept thousands of metal trimmings from tin cans into Bellingham Bay at the end of each workday. Over time, the discarded metal accumulated into the rust-colored mound visible today—a quiet reminder of Fairhaven's industrial past. Today it sits alongside the Taylor Dock boardwalk, where it's become an unexpected landmark blending history, industry, and nature

48.7297° N, 122.5044° W

Community Creations

Tiny Art Exchange

Bring a handmade piece of art to trade. Anything you like. Enjoy what others in your community made. Visit with Respect

48.7266° N, 122.4957° W

Community Creations

Tiny Art Exchange

Bring some art to trade. It doesn't have to be perfect. Always visit with respect.

48.7182° N, 122.4981° W

Community Creations

Tiny Treasure Trove Exchange

Bring something to trade. Cute and tiny trinket trove situatied in an alley between williams and Victor. Always visit with respect.

48.7648° N, 122.4944° W

Film & Pop Culture

Toby's Tavern-Practical Magic Fame

One of my favorite waterfront towns in Washington. Between the historic buildings, the pier, Toby's Tavern, and its Hollywood connection, Coupeville is worth spending an afternoon exploring. Coupeville (Practical Magic Filming Location) Coupeville is one of Washington's oldest waterfront towns and served as a filming location for the 1998 movie Practical Magic. During production, Toby's Tavern was temporarily painted white and transformed into the fictional "Catch & Fry" restaurant. Today, fans can still recognize many filming locations around town, and each year cyclists celebrate the movie during the Practical Magic Ride, a themed bike event that winds through Whidbey Island while honoring the film's connection to Coupeville.

48.2212° N, 122.6867° W

History and Forgotten PlacesTommy Thompson BridgePhotograph pending

History and Forgotten Places

Tommy Thompson Bridge

Field notes to come.

48.4791° N, 122.5788° W

Community Creations

Treasure Exchange

Bring something to trade. This excahnge is a follow on pllay.org. Always visit with respect.

48.7429° N, 122.4714° W

Community Creations

Triceratopstradingco Trinket Exchange

Bring a trinket or small item to trade. Follow at Tiktok @triceratopstradein

47.8303° N, 122.3243° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Troll Haven

Worth the stop to wander through the area and find the many trolls, dragons, and hand carved figures hidden in plain site. This is private property to please follow the No Trespassing signs where applicable. It's like stepping back into the 70s, al la Labyrinth. Available for Private events trollhaven.org

48.0578° N, 122.9226° W

History and Forgotten Places

Tulip Fountain

Gorgeous and 'working' fountain. This elegant bronze fountain was created in 1923 by Swedish-born artist and metalworker Knute Evertz to honor Whatcom County's flourishing tulip bulb industry in the early 1900s. It is one of five tulip fountains Evertz designed for Bellingham. Originally installed in Whatcom Falls Park, the fountain was later relocated to Fairhaven Village Green, where it now serves as both a work of public art and a reminder of the region's agricultural heritage. While you're here, take time to explore the Village Green, the historic mural, and the nearby statue of Dirty Dan Harris in the heart of Fairhaven.

48.7204° N, 122.5040° W

Film & Pop Culture

Twin Peaks - Laura Palmer's House

Quick and respectful stop for a photo. This house was the original home used for the Palmer House exterior shots before production moved to the iconic Everett home.

47.8495° N, 121.9714° W

Film & Pop CultureTwin Peaks "Ronette's Bridge" Reinig BridgePhotograph pending

Film & Pop Culture

Twin Peaks "Ronette's Bridge" Reinig Bridge

Field notes to come.

47.5296° N, 121.8067° W

Film & Pop Culture

Twin Peaks-Donna Hayward's House

Quick stop for a very cool and recognizable Twin Peaks location. Also demonstrate respect for private Residence.

47.9732° N, 122.2131° W

Film & Pop Culture

Twin Peaks-Laura Palmer House

Quick stop for a picture. But you can also book a tour with the current owner at tourpalmerhouse.com. This is a must.

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Film & Pop CultureTwin Peaks-Mount Si High SchoolPhotograph pending

Film & Pop Culture

Twin Peaks-Mount Si High School

Field notes to come.

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Film & Pop CultureTwin Peaks-Snohomish High SchoolPhotograph pending

Film & Pop Culture

Twin Peaks-Snohomish High School

Field notes to come.

47.9183° N, 122.0988° W

Film & Pop Culture

Twin Peaks-Twede's Cafe/Double R

drea's Take:** Even if you've never watched Twin Peaks, this classic diner is worth a stop for the nostalgia. If you are a fan, it's practically a pilgrimage. Originally opened in 1941, Twede's Cafe became world-famous as the Double R Diner in David Lynch's Twin Peaks. Known for its cherry pie and "damn fine cup of coffee," the diner has survived a devastating fire, been restored, and even returned as the Double R for Twin Peaks: The Return in 2017. Today, fans from around the world visit to experience one of Washington's most iconic filming locations

47.4951° N, 121.7869° W

History and Forgotten Places

Underground Shops

Worth the stop. This is an interesting experience in downtown PT. Original to the city, this underground has many unique shops. I also heard you can trick or treat here on Halloween.

48.1145° N, 122.7565° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Unknown Castle

One of Anacortes' most unexpected homes. It looks like it was plucked straight from a European countryside and dropped into a quiet neighborhood. Stone Castle House – Anacortes This private residence is one of Anacortes' most recognizable homes. Built to resemble a stone castle complete with towers and masonry details, it has become a favorite roadside curiosity. Please admire it from the street and respect the owner's privacy

48.5141° N, 122.6270° W

Art & WonderView FramesPhotograph pending

Art & Wonder

View Frames

I love little moments that make you pause and interact with a place. These frames don't tell you what to photograph—they simply invite you to notice your surroundings a little differently. If you're already exploring Fremont, they're a fun stop that's easy to miss but worth seeking out. Scattered along J.P. Patches Way in Fremont are two oversized steel picture frames that invite you to slow down and see Seattle from a different perspective. Created in 2008 by artists Nick and Jean Whitesavage, the interactive sculptures frame views of Lake Union, the Fremont Bridge, or the people you're exploring with—turning ordinary moments into memorable photos. Designed as part of Fremont's collection of playful public art, the frames encourage visitors to become part of the artwork. Whether you're photographing the skyline or a friend inside the frame, each view is a little different depending on where you stand.

47.6493° N, 122.3490° W

Art & Wonder

Waiting For The Interurban

Don't just look at the people—look at the dog. I knew Waiting for the Interurban was a Fremont landmark, but I didn't realize there was a human face hiding on one of its strangest characters. I also love that the neighborhood still interacts with the sculpture, so you may find everyone dressed completely differently when you visit. Created by Seattle sculptor Richard Beyer in 1978, Waiting for the Interurban depicts six people and a dog waiting for the old Seattle–Everett Interurban, an electric trolley that once traveled through Fremont. The railway stopped running in 1939, decades before the sculpture arrived. Look closely at the dog, known as Rover. In 1998, his original face was altered to resemble Armen Stepanian, a longtime Fremont activist known for his sometimes contentious involvement in neighborhood politics. Over the years, dressing the figures has become a Fremont tradition. Costumes, signs, holiday decorations and messages regularly appear on the group, meaning the sculpture can look different every time you visit. They've been waiting for that trolley for a very long time

47.6495° N, 122.3495° W

Art & Wonder

Wall of Misfit Art

. Hidden along an ordinary driveway in Seattle’s Phinney Ridge neighborhood, the Wall of Misfit Art covers the side of a private home with masks, toys, signs, found objects and strange handmade creations. It is equal parts dreamy, funny and nightmarish—and includes a hidden Seinfeld reference. The wall is easy to miss if you approach from the wrong direction. Began in 2021. View respectfully from the neighboring commercial driveway, which remains active. Keep voices low during business hours, don’t block access and don’t attach or leave anything.

47.6804° N, 122.3556° W

Art & Wonder

Washed Up Creatures

This is a great stop to see driftwood art by Joe Treat. He has been making driftwood animals for many years an dhis yard is a whimsical menagerie. If you are lucky, he may come out and talk to you about his creations. You can also see his work in Price Sculpture Forest and at the waterfront in Anacortes. This is private property, so do not trespass.

48.5584° N, 122.4002° W

Nature & AdventureWashington Park OverlookPhotograph pending

Nature & Adventure

Washington Park Overlook

One of the most breathtaking viewpoints in Washington, this overlook inside Washington Park offers sweeping views of Burrows Bay, the San Juan Islands, passing ferries, and—on clear days—the Olympic Mountains. Whether you're driving the scenic loop or walking the trails, it's an easy place to pause, breathe, and watch the ever-changing landscape of the Salish Sea. Don't miss the nearby Havekost Memorial, where pioneer Tonjes H. Havekost's final wish—"Make my tomb a park"—helped preserve this remarkable place for generations to enjoy. I like linking the overlook to the memorial because it encourages people to experience both. Someone who comes for the view may leave with the story, which feels very much in line with what you're building with Found Washington

48.4922° N, 122.6927° W

Film & Pop Culture

Watrefront Tavern - "Serial Killer Bar".

This is still an amazing dive bar.One of Bellingham's oldest waterfront taverns, known for an unusual place in true crime history. The tavern has been associated with Ted Bundy, Hillside Strangler Kenneth Bianchi, and D.C. sniper John Allen Muhammad, as well as James Kinney, who all reportedly spent time here years before or during their notoriety.

48.7529° N, 122.4845° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Way out West

This place is incredible. There is so much to look at that I kept finding something new every few feet—aliens, spaceships, dinosaurs, giant animals and sculptures of every imaginable kind. And the best part? Most of what you're looking at is actually for sale. Way Out West is a sprawling statuary and garden-art business just outside Spokane, run by brothers Mike and Mark Ferguson. Mike has been buying and selling unusual objects for decades, beginning with an antique business in Spokane in the early 1990s before Way Out West eventually made its home on this property. Over the years, pieces have been sourced or commissioned from around the world and brought to Spokane by the shipping container. The result feels less like a conventional garden store and more like wandering through an enormous outdoor collection of roadside oddities. There is even an Airbnb on the property, so you can actually spend the night surrounded by the collection. Hours and access can vary, so confirm before making a special trip.

47.5824° N, 117.5767° W

Places of Meaning

Wayside Chapel

Field notes to come.

47.8544° N, 121.8460° W

Places of MeaningWhidbey Wind PhonePhotograph pending

Places of Meaning

Whidbey Wind Phone

Another quite wind phone on an easy trail. At the head of Trustlands Trail Park, you don't have to go far.

48.0034° N, 122.4352° W

Community Creations

Whimsy Trading Post

Bring a trinke to trade and enjoy this neighborhood Trinket exchange. Also visit with respect.

48.9906° N, 122.7373° W

Places of Meaning

Wiggums Hollow Labyrinth

I am a huge proponent of labyrinths and their ability to help people slow down, meditate, and heal. There is one right in Wiggums Hollow Park. It is near the kids playground so it can be noisy, but in the mornings or evenings it can be a great place to slow down.

48.0024° N, 122.1921° W

Places of Meaning

Wildwood Chapel

This is one of the most magical spots I have been. It is cared for and worth the trip. Nestled beneath towering evergreens along Highway 20, Wildwood Chapel is a tiny, non-denominational chapel built in 1997 by local residents Rudy and Tootsy Clark. Seating just nine people, it's become a beloved roadside stop for quiet reflection, prayer, and even intimate weddings on the way to North Cascades National Park

48.5119° N, 121.4690° W

Places of Meaning

Wind Phone

Quick Stop depending on who you need to call. Wind phone and chair right off of the Olympic Discovery Trail in the grass of a residence. It resembles a book box, until you get closer and find a rotary phone. In loving memory of Pam Larsen.

48.0871° N, 123.1030° W

Places of Meaning

Wind Phone of Ellensburg

I always make a call at a windphone. Tucked inside Wippel Park, Ellensburg's Wind Phone offers a quiet place to say the words left unsaid. Inspired by the original Wind Phone created by Itaru Sasaki in Japan, these disconnected telephones have appeared around the world as places where people can speak to loved ones who have died, process grief, or simply pause for reflection. The Ellensburg Wind Phone was installed in May 2024 by Keely Murphy Pickerel and collaborator Chris Shambacher. Its keeper dedicated it to Keely's brother, Brendan Murphy. As the nearby plaque explains, the phone has no religious affiliation—it's simply a physical reminder that sometimes it helps to say the things still on your heart. Whether you have someone to remember or are simply curious about the growing Wind Phone movement, it's a peaceful and meaningful stop.

46.9953° N, 120.5587° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Winlock Giant Egg

A quick stop not too far off of the Freeway. World's Largest Egg, depending on who you ask.

46.4923° N, 122.9370° W

Community Creations

Wishing Tree

This a special surprise if you are looking for the little Free Blockbuster. Bring a wish. Visit with respecr.

48.8553° N, 122.6039° W

Nature & Adventure

Woodstock Farm Park

No Discover Pass needed. This park is beautiful and unusual. Built in 1909 by railroad magnate and Washington pioneer Charles X. Larrabee, Woodstock Farm overlooks Bellingham Bay with historic barns, open pastures, and sweeping waterfront views. One of Whatcom County's most beautiful and enduring historic estates. It also has a trail that leads you down to Chuckanut Pocket Estuary, which you can enjoy at low tide and see bioluminescence in the summer.

48.6982° N, 122.4959° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

World Famous Giant Shoe Museum

This is so fun to see and experience. A little old time peep show of oversized shoes. Hidden in the DownUnder levels of Pike Place Market, the Giant Shoe Museum is an entire coin-operated museum built into a single wall outside Old Seattle Paperworks. Opened in 1997, the museum displays part of Danny Eskenazi’s collection of enormous shoes. His interest began after learning that his grandfather once owned a shoe worn by Robert Wadlow, the tallest person in recorded history. That shoe disappeared, but Eskenazi’s search for it led to the collection displayed here, including another size-37 shoe worn by Wadlow. Insert a quarter into each machine and look through the stereoscope-style viewing slots as the displays light up behind the curtains. The machines do not accept cards or tap-to-pay, so bring quarters.

47.6086° N, 122.3407° W

Oddities & Roadside AttractionsWorlds Largest Frying PanPhotograph pending

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Worlds Largest Frying Pan

This is absolutely worth a small stop for a photo. In the downtown of Longbeach, WA, sits a 9.5-foot copper and fiberglass pan created in 1941, primarily known as the World's Oldest Large Frying Pan. There are other pans like this, but this one was tbe first.

46.3490° N, 124.0543° W

Oddities & Roadside Attractions

Yard Birds Statue

One of Washington's strangest roadside attractions. Knowing there's a helicopter hangar hidden inside makes it even better. Yard Bird – Chehalis This giant Yard Bird was built as both a mascot for the iconic Yard Birds store and a functioning helicopter hangar. The hollow bird once sheltered the owners' helicopter, making it one of Washington's most unusual pieces of roadside architecture.

46.6843° N, 122.9594° W

Community Creations

York and Iron Trinket Exchange

Bring something to trade at this cute neighborhood trinket exchange. Always visit respectfully.

48.7507° N, 122.4664° W