Summer is finally here! Whether you want to get out and explore with your family or with friends, check out the South Sound for a variety of activities and attractions. Here are five ideas to get you started.
1. Spend a few hours-or the entire day-at Wild Waves/Enchanted Village, in Federal Way. Water slides and wild rides await your arrival; and if you prefer Elephant Ears and Dippin' Dots to fruits and salads, you'll truly be in your element!
2. While you can't actually ride the horses around the track, you will witness beauty in motion, at Emerald Downs. Or, if you prefer go for the opportunity to win-or lose-a few dollars. Whatever your reasons, Emerald Downs offers a big entertainment bang for almost any budget. If you want to act like a high-roller, there are plenty of friendly bookies to help you-and help take your money!
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3. If you want to indulge your animal spirit, head down to Point Defiance Zoo, in Ruston. The incredible views of Commencement Bay and gorgeous gardens will further enhance your enjoyment of the animal exhibits. One of the most recent additions to the zoo is the Red Wolf exhibit, and you won't want to miss the baby clouded leopard cubs that were born on June 14th!
4. Does watching a glass blower in action get you excited? If so, you may want to explore the Museum of Glass in downtown Tacoma. You can take a docent-guided tour to hear about the permanent and temporary glass art exhibitions and collections. Or, you can tour the museum at your leisure.
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5. Be prepared to be astounded by the methane seeps-better known as geysers- at Flaming Geyser State Park. Located along the shores of the Green River, there are numerous activities from which to choose: whitewater kayaking, swimming, fishing, volleyball, hiking, horseback riding and bird watching. One unique feature that the park offers is a large area for flying model airplanes and there are several horse shoe pits for those with a more competitive spirit.
Keep in mind that this is a very short list of the variety of attractions in South Sound; there are countless more from which to choose. If you want to beat the planes and trains, this summer, a short drive will yield big dividends!