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Beat the summer heat with a weeknight swim at a pool with a view, followed by cocktails & dinner at a modern Chinese restaurant/bar.

Here's your plan for a West Seattle swim with a Chinese food feast

West Seattle Swimming Pool + Chinese Food Feast

Swim laps at Colman Pool, a heated saltwater pool in Seattle's Fauntleroy neighborhood. Enjoy scenic waterfront views and a refreshing workout.

Swimming

✅ Before you go
• Check open swim hours for the day you’re planning to go (https://www.seattle.gov/parks/pools/colman-pool)
• The day pass fee is $6.50 (cash or card), and there are discounts for kids and seniors
• There’s no parking directly outside the building. I recommend the free parking in the Lincoln Park south parking lot (located here: 4699 SW Cloverdale St, Seattle, WA 98136). It’s a 10-minute walk along the waterfront from there
• Bring with you: towel, water bottle, lock for the locker rooms, shower supplies, goggles and a swim cap, a change of clothes for after your swim
• Colman Pool is a heated saltwater pool

💪 Pro tip
• They have options for a 10-pass punch card or 30-day passes at a discounted rate. I’ve enjoyed using the 10-pass punch card and visiting different pools all around Seattle (notably the outdoor pool in Ballard and the indoor pool at Rainier Beach Community Center)

Swim laps at Colman Pool

Enjoy cocktails, dinner at New Luck Toy, a lively bar serving Chinese cuisine. No reservations, features karaoke. Street parking available.

Cocktails & Dinner

✅ Before you go
• Check the hours; they are closed Sun/Mon/Tues
• They don’t take reservations here. It’s usually not too busy on the weekdays, but plan ahead if you’re working with a tight window
• New Luck Toy is surrounded by free street parking!

💪 Pro tips
• If there is a wait for a table, check out the bar in the back. They serve their full menu at the bar 
• Order the Mongolian Beef and the Honey Pecan Prawns. They are both a must!
• If you’re trying to make a night of it, they also have a private karaoke room!

Grab cocktails & dinner at New Luck Toy

Let's go for an after work swim in West Seattle,

then refuel with a Chinese food feast at an eclectic bar.

we're checking out Colman pool located right on the water in West Seattle.

Take the scenic path from the parking lot along

the waterfront until you bump right into it.

Grab a day pass at the front desk and you are ready to go.

in hand, we are nothing short of Olympians

It was an hour of pure intimidation from the easy lane

with necessary breaks to soak up all the amazing poolside views.

the triple threat cocktail bar meets karaoke bar meets

We ordered a few of their summer cocktails.

Then proceeded to order about half the menu including the Mongolian beef,

which is my personal favorite and the honey pecan prawns,

Safe to say we left no crumbs behind. Save this plan for a sunny evening soon!

Here's your plan for enjoying modern, bold Indian small plates, cocktails, and a stylish dining vibe downtown Seattle. Watch the video 👇

Mint Progressive Indian brings a bold, modern approach to Indian food right into downtown Seattle. Expect creative small plates, globally inspired mains, and stylish cocktails that reimagine Indian dining for today. Perfect for nights out with friends, dates, or anyone looking to explore Indian flavors in a fresh way.

👉 mintprogressive.com

Fancy Indian dining in Seattle Downtown

Discover modern Indian cuisine at Mint Progressive Indian in downtown Seattle—enjoy creative small plates, fusion mains, and photogenic cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting.

Fine Indian Dining

✅ Before you go
• Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends — the space is intimate and fills up quickly.

Come hungry and plan to share; the menu is designed for trying multiple dishes.

💪 Pro tips
• Don’t miss their cocktail program — drinks like the Tamarind Whiskey Sour and Mango Mule are customer favorites.

Ask about chef specials — Mint often features seasonal or off-menu creations that regulars rave about.

Save room for dessert: their Rasmalai Tres Leches is a must-try fusion sweet.

Parking can be tricky in downtown Bellevue; give yourself extra time or use the nearby garages.

Experience Progressive Indian Flavors


turn into a full-blown culinary show this weekend,

we have Mint Progressive Indian in downtown Seattle.

We ordered the nitrogen chart for the gram,

did he just flash freeze Dokla yogurt right in front of us?

Next up was the iconic pani puri for the burst of tangy goodness.

For Mas we feasted on duva kofta and the creamiest buttered chicken ever.

they've got a private dining room that's seriously giving luxe wipes.

Mint Progressive is where classic Indian flavors get a wild modern glow.

Here's your plan for enjoying fresh, hand-rolled samosas and unique Indian street snacks in Seattle. Watch the video 👇

Seattle Samosa is all about fresh, hand-rolled samosas and Indian street snacks made right here in the Pacific Northwest. From classic potato samosas to fusion flavors, it’s your go-to for comfort food with a crunch. Perfect for a quick bite, party catering, or when cravings hit.

Website:
👉 seattlesamosa.com

Samosa Haven in Seattle

Enjoy creative, hand-rolled samosas and Indian street snacks at Seattle Samosa in U District—pair with chutneys and masala chai for the ultimate experience.

Eat Samosas


💪 Pro tips
• Don’t stop at samosas — try their chutney dips (mint, tamarind, garlic chili) for the full experience.

Ask about their party trays — they’re a hit for gatherings and save you from cooking.

Pair samosas with Masala Chai if you want the authentic Indian street-side feel.



Drive to Seattle Samosa in U District

Seattle samosa is a true gift to samosa lovers in Seattle.

The recent edition are Mexican and Mongal samosas,

bottle flavored rose lassie made in-house,

They've made me a fan and a loyal customer for sure.

Here's your plan for enjoying flavorful Indian and Mediterranean dishes at Bay Leaf Bar & Grill in Bothell. Watch the video 👇

Bayleaf brings together the best of Indian and Mediterranean cuisines in the heart of Bothell. From aromatic curries and biryanis to fresh kebabs and hummus platters, it’s a cozy spot where spices and comfort meet. Great for lunch buffets, dinner dates, or takeout nights.

👉 bayleafbothell.com


Indian & Mediterranean Flavors in Bothell

Savor Indian and Mediterranean classics at Bay Leaf Bar & Grill in Bothell—perfect for lunch buffets or relaxed dinners with generous portions and freshly baked naan.

Indian & Mediterranean Dining

✅ Before you go
• Check whether you want the weekday lunch buffet (quick and plentiful) or an à la carte dinner (slower and more curated).

💪 Pro tips
• Order a mix: pair Chicken Tikka Masala with Falafel & Hummus for the full Indian–Mediterranean experience.

Always get Garlic Naan or Cheese Naan — they’re baked to perfection and run out fast on busy nights.

Ask for “medium spice” if you’re new — Bayleaf can go very authentic on heat levels.

The portions are generous; bring a friend or plan for leftovers (their curries taste even better the next day).

Try the Mango Lassi alongside spicy dishes — it cools down the palate while adding a sweet balance.

Drive to Bayleaf 

Delicious food is a non-negotiable on a date nights.

That's how we found Bay leaf in bottle last Friday,

a family-run Indian and Mediterranean spot that totally surprised us.

sizzling arai and a mezz platter for the soul,

a mixed grill that smelled like heaven and biryani,

and the kind of place we'll definitely come back to.

Here's your plan for exploring mountains, rainforests, beaches, Twilight stops, and luxury stays.

Watch the video 👇

Two-and-a-half days exploring mountains, forests, lakes, and beaches. From a luxury stay to Twilight stops and stunning landscapes, this trip has it all.



2.5 Day Trip to Olympic National Park

Stay at Domaine Madeleine in Port Angeles for luxury lodging, stunning views of Juan de Fuca, cozy evenings by the fire, and easy access to Olympic National Park adventures.

Luxury stay & relaxation

✅ Before you go
• Request a room with a patio view for the best experience. Book early—rooms fill fast.

💪 Pro tips
• Pack layers and something cozy for evenings by the fire.



Stay at Domaine Madeleine- Port Angeles 

Marvel at breathtaking mountain views at Hurricane Ridge—ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, and photography. Early visits offer serene landscapes and a chance to spot bears along the way.

Mountain viewing

✅ Before you go
• Bring binoculars, a camera, and water. The road can be long, so plan extra time.



💪 Pro tips
• Go early to avoid crowds and catch the best light. Layer up—temperatures change quickly at the top.
• Iook out for Bears on the side on the way

Hurricane Ridge

Wander among ancient moss-covered trees and lush ferns in the magical Hoh Rainforest—perfect for nature walks, wildlife viewing, and soaking in the quiet beauty of the old-growth forest.

Rainforest hiking

✅ Before you go
• Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry a small daypack with snacks and water.

💪 Pro tips
• Plan an early morning trip to avoid waiting in parking queue for an hour & more

Hoh Rainforest

Grab quick snacks or classic burgers at Frugals drive-in in Auburn; perfect for fueling up during your Olympic National Park road trip.

Drive-In Burgers

Grab quick snacks or Subway on the go. Don’t miss Frugals, a classic drive-in for a local bite.
💪 Pro tips: Call ahead or order early at Frugals to skip lines.
✅ Before you go: Pack a small cooler with drinks and extra snacks for the long drives.

Road Trip Eats

Visit Bella Italia in Port Angeles for a Twilight-inspired meal, then explore Forks, the iconic town from the series—a fun stop for fans and travelers alike.

Twilight sightseeing

Visit Bella Vita Café in Port Angeles and then explore Forks, the town from Twilight. A must-see for fans—or just a fun stop on the road.


Twilight Stops

Explore the dramatic coastline at Ruby Beach and visit the iconic Tree of Life. Walk the shore, photograph sea stacks, and discover tide pools during low tide.

Beach & Coastal Walk

Finish the park loop with the dramatic Tree of Life and the rugged coastline of Ruby Beach.
💪 Pro tips: Check tide schedules before visiting Ruby Beach. Low tide lets you explore tide pools safely.
✅ Before you go: Pack waterproof shoes if you plan to explore the beach and dress in layers—the coast can be windy.


Ruby Beach & Tree of Life


Olympic National Park will show you mountains,

One moment you're at Hurricane Ridge and taking in

these massive layers of peaks in every direction.

you're driving by this beautiful crescent lake,

and then suddenly you're walking through these dense rainforests

and then finding yourselves by the Pacific Ocean beaches.

It feels like you're stepping into these different worlds back to back.

ridge eating berries and deers by this breathtaking view.

We bought snacks and subways which kept us fed while we waited

in the long 2-hour queue for parking in the rain forest.

Next day we picked up grilled cheese and burgers from Frugals,

which was one of the famous drive-ins in Bo Angelus.

Up having dinner at the Bella Vita in Port

Angeles where Bella and Edward had their first date

Seeing all of this in real life was making my 17-year-old self scream.

Our stay for these two nights was this luxury

boutique stay called Domain Madeleine in Port Angeles,

where we woke up to this beautiful view of Juan de Fuca from our patio.

Soaked in the jet top after the long day of exploring the park

the rugged ruby beach and the iconic Tree of Life.

and some of the most stunning landscapes I've ever seen.

Olympic National Park is an experience you feel in there.