Seattle Weekend Date: Museums & le Pichet

Vancouver offers so many destinations, attractions and amazing places to eat.  Yet sometimes there is a need to get away from the familiar places, get into a car and drive to explore something new.  The lucky thing is, there are places within a few hours of drive of Vancouver, that offer just that: exciting, world-class cuisine, activities ranging from skiing adventures, to arts, museums and breath-taking views. Here, on The Perfect Date, we’ve written about Whistler day trip, Okanagan and Portland trips are on our soon to-do list, and today I wanted to share our favorite Seattle destinations, that make for a beautiful day-trip date.

I love the morning of the day trip – waking up early, knowing the day full of new experiences is ahead. We grab a quick Tim’s coffee and head for the border, if you need a full breakfast for the long road, stopping at Old Town Café once you cross the border and are in Bellingham is highly recommended.   We are lucky, driving there in October, with the fall colors in full swing, without knowing, we

 Place Market Flowers

Place Market Flowers

get a preview for what’s to come later that day – sensory overload of bright, amazing colors inspired by nature.

Our first destination is Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum.  This exposition is incredible to experience together – walking from one room to another, taking in the array of colors, mysterious shapes against shiny black background, we were absolutely blown away by the power of Chihuly’s vision and imagination.  Every room is a piece of art, every detail is thought through, incredible flowers made of glass, hug

e structures effortlessly balanced in the air, colors flowing from one to another.  Every sculpture incorporates the

room, the ceiling gets reflected in blackness of the walls. The garden combines glass flowers with the natural flowers and black grass – how cool is that? If you have only 1-2 hours to spend in that area, make sure you visit the museum and have the camera ready.

If you have more time, head to the Space Needle located right next to the museum. On a clear day the panoramic view of Seattle skyline and the ocean are not to be missed. There is something romantic and serene about being together high up in the clouds, taking in the views of a beautiful city.  Have even more time and love music and pop culture?  EMP – Experience Music Project Museum is right next to the Needle.  We leave EMP for the next visit and head to our next favorite place in Seattle – the Pike Place Market.

Multi gemstone and diamond ring

Stunning Multi-gemstone & Diamond Ring

I love the atmosphere of the market, the artisan treats, the sea of fresh and dry flower bouquets, fish and produce stands – there is something for everyone there.  The abundance of produce, deli and breads makes me think of food – locally sourced, beautifully prepared.  We know just the place for that.  Located on the 1st  Ave, minutes walk from the market, Le Pichet is a French restaurant we love.  Atmosphere is cozy, romantic with small tables and European flair.  Service is impeccable, with the place being always packed, the warm crusty bread appears on the tables in no time, drinks replenished, dishes beautifully arranged.  The menu is small, French, with specialty items frequently changing featuring seasonal produce, every dish we tried perfectly executed.  Sitting by the window, sparkling candle on the table, we talk about the amazing day, which would be an amazing gift for a special occasion whether you pair it with a colorful reminder of the day or not is up to you!

Whistler Date: 21 Steps

IMG_0111-e1380611110679Some days we just want to get away from the city. Our favorite day trip is a drive to Whistler. Every time we take a spectacular drive, we never fail to be impressed by the stunning scenery on both sides of the highway; taking the Sea to Sky highway for 2 hours from Vancouver. It’s our time to reflect and chat together as the sea disappears on the left of us and we start to climb inland. Deep valleys, rugged mountains and tall trees are on either side as we pass those hardy souls who cycle to the same location as us only they will stop for a break and cycle back. Half way to the Village there are Shannon Falls, perfect excuse to stop for a short walk and take in an Shannon Falls amazing scenery and be amazed by the power of the falling water.

Another hour of driving and we are turning off the highway, parking the car and walking into Whistler Village Nestled in the mountains of British Columbia. We come to Whistler year around, as this resort always has lots to offer. From skiing in the winter (Après-ski for those that don’t ski works just as well), mountain biking in the summer, hiking and relaxing at one of the many Spas, farmers market in the summer, or many of the restaurants and bars that form part of the Village, Whistler is always a special treat .

If you are like Maria and like shopping, then Whistler Village does not disappoint, there are shops for the beginner or serious skier. Clothing shops are always busy with clients wanting to look good on the slopes or après ski in one of the lounges.

By now we are getting hungry, all that fresh mountain air and the walks have increased our appetite. We found a gem in called 21 Steps: the food is incredible, the staff warmly welcome us and are helpful in making the evening special. Located on the second floor of 4433 Sundial Place the views from the window table look down over the village streets and ring576upwards to the majestic mountains. We’ve been there in the winter, fall and summer, the menu is seasonal and the dining is always perfect. Derek’s favorite small plate is the tiny bacon wrapped filet, followed by Australian lamb chops and the “to die for” dessert Rubin’s Cheese Cake. Wine selection is great, and the staff is knowledgeable and offered us some great suggestions. Out of many restaurants Whistler has to offer, we’ve been consistently back to 21 Steps and have never Diamond & Ruby 18K Gold Ringregretted the choice.

If this is the special occasion and you’ve put together this trip for that special person in your life, you can make it a day she will never forget. Tie together the scarlet sunset, the red flickers of candles on the table with a gift of Rubies. Warm and inviting, rubies signify your most intense emotions—love and passion. Now this truly is a Perfect Date.