The Micoadventure: Epic Adventures Without the Epic Hassle

52 Microadventures in 52 Weeks - Part 2

Seattle Southside is so full of incredible sights, activities, eats, and more that we had to break up our microadventure-a-week post into multiple parts! Continue your journey with us as we find even more curiously wonderful microadventures to enjoy in Seattle Southside.

18. Stop and Smell the Flowers at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden
19. Toast the Breathtaking Sunset at the Quarterdeck
20. History and Noodles at Arashi Ramen
22. Round of Golf and a Round of Drinks at Billy Baroo's
23. Cool Off With Shave Ice at Kakigori Dessert

Not sure what a microadventure is?

Read part one of the series here to learn what a microadventure is and follow this post as our adventures continue in part two.

18. Stop and Smell the Flowers at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden

Nothing says spring like the rhododendrons in bloom around town, and there's no place better to take in these beautiful flowers than at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden. But don't be fooled - this garden, which features over 700 of the more than 1,000 types of rhododendron, is gorgeous well into the summer as well, thanks to their extensive collection of azaleas (also a part of the rhododendron family!), Victorian-era Stumpery (who knew that was a thing?), conservatory and more. You can learn more about the garden in different seasons on their website.

19. Toast the Breathtaking Sunset at the Quarterdeck

Watch the sun slip behing the Olympic Mountains and paint the sky in vibrant hues while sipping wine, craft beer, or an espresso at the Quarterdeck at Des Moines Marina. While there are many spots along the shore of the Puget Sound that make for excellent sunset viewing, this may be one of our favorites - you get the incredible view, plus tasty libations and occasionally live music and food trucks as well! And if you're a dog lover, the Quarterdeck is pet-friendly, so you'll often get to see a few furry friends to make your visit a tail-wagging good time.

20. History and Noodles at Arashi Ramen

A rich, hot, and delicious bowl of ramen is fantastic on a cold day, and cold noodles are perfectly refreshing on a hot day. No matter the weather, Arashi Ramen has you covered with incredible eats. But this place is about far more than just the incredible food inside. Just outside of the restaurant is a bench that you could easily mistake as just a simple place to sit. But if you read the plaque on the bench, you'll see that the bench is dedicated to the memories of Tamayo and Matsutake Mikami, who worked on a farm on the land that is now the Parkway Village shopping center that houses Arashi Ramen. During World War Two, while the family was interned by the American government, four of the Mikami's ten children volunteered to serve their country in spite of the injustices their family faced. The poles behind the bench are engraved to resemble stalks of the sweet corn the Mikami family was known for growing. This microadventure is about more than just an amazing bite to eat - it's about preserving local history.

21. Catch a Thrilling BMX Race

SeaTac BMX is a venue like no other. Featuridng both a world-class BMX track and a pump track, this is the home track for multiple championship-level BMX racers. From late spring through early fall, you can catch these racers on the track in their USA BMX-sanctioned races, which are a thrilling watch for all. If you're feeling especially brave, the track also has rentals available to try out the sport for yourself outside of these race event times. Learn more and check out their full race schedule here.

22. Round of Golf and a Round of Drinks at Billy Baroo's

Whether you're the king of swing or don't know your putter from your nine-iron, you'll have a fantastic time at Billy Baroo's: a fantastic slice of American-style pub located right next to the beautiful greens at Foster Golf Links. Whether you've worked up an appetite with a round of golf or just come by for the tasty eats and lovely view, you'll find barbecued deliciousness, burgers, and grillhouse eats that are perfectly paired with one of the 20 beers they have on tap, a signature cocktail, or a glass of wine.

23. Cool Off With Shave Ice at Kakigori Dessert

With the temperatures rising, some relief from the heat is definitely needed, and there's no sweeter way to cool off than shaved ice! At Kakigori Dessert you can enjoy Korean-style bingsoo shaved ice that's so cute you'll (almost) feel bad eating it, with flavors like Thai Tea, Strawberries & Oreo, and beyond! Not feeling the chills? Delicious croffles (croissant waffles) are another snack option covered in delectable toppings.

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Author

Christy Maggio

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