The City of Des Moines (located just 30 minutes south of downtown Seattle) offers a multitude of fun and inexpensive day trips for adventure in town and its surrounding waterfront. From the boardwalk at Redondo Beach, to the Marine Science and Technology Center, to a waterfront farmers market, this beach town could be just the ticket for a close-by getaway as the city celebrates 100 years as a tourist destination.
Here are a few ideas for adventure.
Salt Water State Park
Saltwater State Park is an 88-acre marine day and camping park with nearly 1,500 feet of beach. The park offers beautiful views, hiking and biking trails, and ample opportunities to bird watch. Currently the campground and store are closed, however, the park is open for day use. For more information, visit http://www.parks.wa.gov/parks/?selectedpark=Saltwater
Sail into the sunset
The Des Moines Marina offers a boat-in, boat-out experience with slips available to rent for the afternoon or for an overnight stay. Explore the adjoining Des Moines Beach Park National Historic District and Creek Trail. For more information, visit www.desmoineswa.gov.
Meet aquatic wildlife
Visit the Marine Science and Technology Center (MaST) on Saturdays; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on the Redondo Waterfront. Free and open to the public, the MaST Center offers kids and families a chance to see and touch local aquatic life in their many “touch pools.” For more information, visit http://mast.highline.edu.
Historic Des Moines Cinema
Take the family to see a summer blockbuster at this classic single-screen art-deco style cinema, or stop by at 5 p.m. during the week of July 13-17 for a classic movie from the ‘50s. For show times and more information, visit www.desmoinescinema.com or call (206) 878-1540.
Waterfront Farmers Market
Shop for locally grown produce and crafts at the Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market, Saturdays, through Oct. 31; 10 a.m.-2 p.m, and Wednesdays July 22- Aug. 19, from 4-7 p.m. The market is located at 227th and Dock Street.
The market features farm fresh produce, baked goods, cut flowers and unique local crafts. For more information, visit www.dmfm.org.
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