Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/118157
P R O M O T I O N A L F E AT U R E Snohome Sweet Home Seattle may be Washington's king city, but Snohomish County is queen travellers rarely hop in their cars for a cross-border jaunt planning to experience a U.S. county, per se. Instead, they tend to have a specific city in mind, one they're keen to explore for its singular attractions; though with 19 cities in Snohomish County alone, it's easy to become well-acquainted with this dynamic region without even realizing it. As for notso-frequent travellers crossing the CanadaU.S. border into Washington, the best way to gain a big-picture view of Snohomish is to remember that its urban centres are mostly located west of the I-5, along the coast; rural areas lie to the east. And, of course, by venturing beyond the highway, you can experience the lay of the land first-hand while discovering the unique cultural, scenic and B.C. recreational opportunities that make backroad travel here such a pleasure. Take western Snohomish County, for example, long a popular destination for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, from boaters to horseback riders. Today, it also boasts one of the premier resorts and conference destinations in the state: Tulalip Resort Casino in Quil Ceda Village, just 45 minutes north of Seattle. With gaming a tribal tradition for the Tulalip (their ancestors wagered on a guessing game involving bones called Slehal), it's no wonder this 192,000-square-foot facility features the finest selection of games and the most cash back offered at any Pacific Northwest casino. Yet the resort isn't just for high rollers and casual players. Guests can enjoy one of the region's most memorable spas, fine Washington Tourism, Snohomish County Tourism Bureau, Edmonds and Leavenworth Chambers of Commerce p42-45_Washington Adv.indd 43 dining and the diverse offerings of the resort's Summer Concert Series (July to September at the Tulalip Amphitheatre). Or they can explore Tulalip tribal culture with a tour of the Hibulb Cultural Center and Natural History Preserve. As well, Quil Ceda Village is now a key destination for outdoor lovers: the recently opened Cabela's Outfitters offers an extensive selection of gear for fly-fishing, camping, hiking and water sports, plus archery equipment. Meanwhile, nearby, Seattle Premium Outlets boasts 110 designer stores representing high-end fash(clockwise from top left) In summer, Bavarianthemed Leavenworth hosts wine festivals and music and culinary events; the Edmonds Art Walk features gallery hopping, live music and wine tasting; outdoor enthusiasts flock to western Snohomish County; and Tulalip Resort Casino showcases a diverse concert series and Tulalip tribal culture. WASHINGTON TOURISM 43 4/19/12 7:22:25 AM