Even though Whispering Pines RV Campground has plenty to do on its grounds, part of the travel experience is about exploring areas that surround where you're staying. We asked our guests, "What are your favorite things to do in Cle Elum, Roslyn, and other nearby places while you're visiting Whispering Pines?", and these are the top 6 answers:
1. Owen's Meats
Owen's is thought to be the oldest business in the Kittitas Valley, and it's still a major favorite, with the most votes in our survey. Opened in 1887, two years before Washington State was established, and has been continuously operating ever since. With smoked meat snacks and the freshest raw meats, Owen's has a long-lived reputation for having exceptional products every day. It's no wonder this is a guest favorite, too, since grilling and open fire cooking are perfect ways to prep meals on camping trips, and smoked meats are ideal snacks for hiking and camping! Check out their website here.
2. Exploring Roslyn
We got some specific Roslyn favorites, but had just as many guests talking about exploring downtown as a whole, especially for drinks and lunch. With cozy small-town vibes, farmers markets during the on-season, and plenty of unique businesses, Roslyn is a perfect place to spend the afternoon meandering. Visit Roslyn Downtown Association's site by clicking here and learn more about what their town has to offer.
3. Pioneer Coffee
Pioneer doesn't just make a killer cup of coffee, they roast it themselves in-house! Whether you're just waking up or getting a pick-me-up later in the day, Pioneer will greet you with delicious smells and knowledgeable staff who will brew your beans to perfection! Hungry? They've got your back with food too! With tasty baked options like muffins, scones, and croissants, plus slightly more filling options like breakfast burritos, you can take care of breakfast all in one stop! Check out their website by clicking here.
4. Gemini Fish Market
The absolute best place around to get fresh and frozen fish of all kinds, Gemini is well known across Washington by lovers of seafood, with a location closer to Seattle in Issaquah, and one nestled right in the middle of downtown Cle Elum, just a short walk from some of the other places on our list. The fish market was founded by Kim and Jim Oswalt, after Jim spent the majority of his life working in different areas of the fish industry. All year, Gemini has the freshest seafood available, and is a perfect place to stop while passing through Central Washington. Not sure about the best way to cook up the fish you can find there? Their website is FULL of amazing recipes!
5. Cle Elum Bakery
Right in the heart of downtown Cle Elum sits the Cle Elum Bakery - the perfect stop for anyone with a sweet tooth. From breads to pies, cookies to donuts, and a whole lot more, the bakery is a fan favorite among Whispering Pines guests, and we get it! The baked goods here are almost as sweet as the kind and caring staff that bakes and serves whatever catches your eye! While you're indulging, add a coffee or espresso drink - hot or cold - to your order, and enjoy! You can visit their Instagram by clicking here.
6. Hiking
Cle Elum is a central hub for hikers, with trails that are pretty close to downtown, and some further away, so no matter how far you're willing to travel, you're guaranteed to find a place to hike that's got just the right length and difficulty of trails. Here's an amazing list of hiking trails compiled by the wonderful Cle Elum Downtown Association.
It's easy to see why people love these businesses and activities! Whether you're staying with us, or just passing through, keep this list in mind and check out all Cle Elum and surrounding areas have to offer! Planning a trip into the PNW, and not sure where to stay along your travels? Click here to learn more about Whispering Pines RV Campground!
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