Whether it’s strolling through a farmers market or viewing sea life during a scuba dive, the Seattle Southside region offers many outdoor adventures for groups.
They can take in the views of the Cascade and Olympic mountains and enjoy the Des Moines Marina—either in or on the water. The Olympic Outdoor Center offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, and Seattle Dive Tours will pick up participants, provide equipment and give guided scuba tours in the Puget Sound, where divers can see a variety of marine wildlife and vegetation. For more experienced divers, the Des Moines Wreck, a sunken 55-foot, wood-hulled ship, can be explored.
All hungry adventurers can dine at the variety of fresh, nearby seafood restaurants with outdoor waterfront seating, including Anthony’s HomePort Des Moines or Salty’s at Redondo Beach. They can also pair Odin Brewery and Tap Room’s cold ale with its distinctive barbecue while relaxing on the outdoor patio.
The Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market, held every Saturday in the summer (plus Wednesdays in July and August), features more than 50 farms, crafters and food vendors offering their local, sustainable products.
And for groups that want an up-close look at the city’s sports scene, they can visit Starfire Sports, the training grounds for the Seattle Sounders FC soccer club, and watch the athletes practice. With more than 54 acres and 12 turf and natural grass fields, the athletic center also houses two indoor fields, retail stores, restaurants and athletic training rooms.
For more information, contact Meagan McGuire with Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Authority or go to tourseattlesouthside.com.
Top photo: Paddling with Olympic Outdoor Center
Photos by Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Authority
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Coos Bay-North Bend Visitor & Convention Bureau
Harry & David
Travel Medford
Tulalip Tribes/Quil Ceda Village
