Maybe it’s not a huge club, but folks who are into model trains are really into model trains. So, I’m probably preaching to the choir, telling the groupies about Tacoma’s 14th Annual Model Train Festival. But for those of you who have never been to one of these before, they’re definitely worth a visit.

On December 26 through January 2, the History Museum will be filled to the brim with all things train. Come check out the miniature villages and the play area just for little engineers. Since it’s the holidays, the place will be especially done up. There will be no less than 10 full layouts by the major model train outfits, including The Pierce County Lionel Club and the Sound Model Railroad Engineers. So, get on board! (Sorry, couldn’t help myself.)

Dale

It’s a special delight to run across an interesting and unusual spot in your own town. I just learned that right in Old Town Park, just a block from where it originally stood, is a replica of Job Carr’s cabin. Um, who? And, what?

Well, turns out that old Job was Tacoma’s first Euro-American settler, plopping himself down, in 1865, in what is now Old Town Tacoma. A permanently disabled veteran of the Civil War, Carr made his way from Indiana to Commencement Bay, purportedly exclaiming “Eureka! Eureka!” when he spied the future Tacoma.

He built himself a cabin, got himself a cat—Tom, of course—and got down to the business of making his claim. His cabin is now a museum with all his pioneer stuff, some great old musical instruments, and some audio musical samples of the music of Carr’s day.

If you ever wondered what Old Town looked like when it wasn’t so old, a visit to Job Carr’s home will give you a glimpse. You can also check out the Job Carr Museum as well.

Cheers,
Dale

Ready for a spot where not only have you left the kids at home but everyone else has, too? Then Katie Down’s on the waterfront is the place for you. There are plenty of fancy places in town that are 21-and over only, but Katie Down’s is different: a fun, casual spot — without the crying and chaos (until closing time, that is).

A Tacoma institution, this spot consistently serves up great burgers, fish and chips, and salads, and they also have world class pizza (try the white sauce!). They have a good beer selection, a decent wine list, and a full bar (a relatively recent change for those of you who remember the days when you couldn’t get a gin and tonic on a hot day).

The service is sometimes leisurely, shall we say, and the crowd can be boisterous, but Katie Down’s is still the place to go when you want a relaxing afternoon or evening out. And a darn fine view. Remember to get there early for happy hour (1/2 price apps), and their deck is amazing on a sunny afternoon/evening.

Have fun,
Dale

Anyone who has ever visited us at Hotel Murano knows that we love art. Aside from our incredible collection of glass art, which you can see on every floor of the hotel, there are also all kinds of other creations to feast your eyes on.

But on the off chance you’re still hungry, we happen to be only a couple of blocks from the Tacoma Art Museum. And if you’re here on June 6 (6:30 p.m.-9 p.m.), head over to meet this year’s Neddy Artist Fellowship nominees and see their work.

You’ll see great paintings from a variety of people, including some excellent glass work as well. Highlights include the work of Eric Elliot, this year’s painting fellowship winner, and April Surgent, who was awarded this year’s glass art fellowship.

And the event’s free and includes hors d’oeuvres and a no-host bar!

Have fun!
Danielle

One of my favorite things about living in the Pacific Northwest is that we have four distinctive seasons (OK, yes, they all include rain). And one of my favorite ways to celebrate spring is my first annual trip to the Proctor Farmers Market.

Though some events have already started in the market space, the really good stuff ― all the fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, plants ― don’t start showing up until later in May. There are also vendors selling fresh fish, meats, and incredible cheeses. You can find some cool homemade crafts, and even stuff for dogs and for Jaxson (my cat).

If you linger as long as I do, you’ll end up tasting a little bit of a lot of things. When you’re ready to sit and rest, stop at the food booths; maybe a caprese empanada followed by some homemade ice cream. Not a bad way to spend a sunny Saturday…

Have fun!
Danielle

Times are pretty tough right now and we know you’re looking for the best possible deals out there, so here’s one for you:  15% off our best available rate!  I’ll let you do the math on that one, but I’m sure you’ll feel good about the savings.  In fact, I might just have to move in myself at these prices, but I guess I can save the available rooms for guests, instead.  So, let your friends and family know and have them come visit you or use the special on yourself to spend a weekend relaxing.
Hopefully I’ll be seeing you soon.
Danielle

Here in Tacoma we’re rather proud of our glass art tradition, and rightfully so. It’s a world-class act. Visitors explore our hallways and frequently exclaim that they never realized that glass art could be anything more than blown-glass baubles and church windows. Another great opportunity to see yet another use of glass as an art medium is happening right now at the Museum of Glass. The show, “White Light: Glass Compositions by Daniel Clayman” takes what could be the most ordinary of treatments—white glass—and uses it to stretch our perceptions of light and space. But you’d better get there soon, the show ends June 14.

–Dale

Satellite Coffee, which “imports” its rich, jittery goodness from Portland’s Stumptown Roasters, has been around for a couple of years. But now they’re enjoying a growth spurt. Like this:

February 19, 2009: Satellite Coffee opens a second location, a spot inside Masa.

April 1, 2009: Satellite Coffee opens a third location, at Embellish Multispace Salon.

I am so there. Now you know my secret to always-on customer service.

– Danielle

Sure, it’s bird watching season, but why not give your Audubon impulses a break? Why go search for birds when they can search for you? Recently, birds have been showing up in droves at Titlow Park. Here’s what you do. Fill a couple of Ziploc bags with bread crumbs, pile the kids in the car and drive out to the park. You’ll have a blast feeding the pigeons. Afterwards, head up to Steamers and enjoy a great bowl of clam chowder. Be sure to thank me later.

–Dale

This beautiful pic was taken from across the Foss Waterway here in Tacoma.  It fittingly ends right at the Hotel Murano.  Is this a sign that people should come visit us on St. Paddy’s Day?  I’ll leave that up to you, but just keep your eyes out for leprechauns in the meantime.

- Danielle

(Photo Courtesy of Rick Semple)