What’s New in 2025

Air, Sea and Trains

Port of Seattle/SEA Airport

SEA Airport Completes Pandemic Recovery with Record 2024 Volumes

SEA Airport’s passenger volumes reached record levels in 2024 with totals beating pre-pandemic marks. In 2024 SEA also saw its busiest day ever on Aug. 18 with over 75k outbound travelers passing through security and an estimated 198K total passengers going through the airport. 2025 volumes are currently forecasted to be even higher. Continued capital investment projects are expected to be completed ahead of the 2026 World Cup including additional security lines, restroom renovations, C Concourse Expansion, and roadway improvements to support the influx of travelers. See the full press release.

SEA Welcomes New Edelweiss Air Service to Zurich

In early 2025, Edelweiss began two weekly nonstop services between Zurich and Seattle on an Airbus A340-300 aircraft. Edelweiss is Switzerland’s leading leisure airline with a global route including over 90 destinations across more than 30 countries including three additional U.S cities, Denver, Las Vegas, and Tampa Bay. The airline anticipates bringing over 5,000 visitors to Seattle each summer, generating $20mil of regional economic impact. See the full press release.

STARLUX Airlines Now Provides Nonstop Service to SEA

STARLUX, a luxury airline based in Taipei, now offers service to Taipei from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Travelers flying to Taipei can connect to 23 other Asian destinations through the STARLUX network, and inbound travelers can connect to over 100 U.S. cities on the Alaska Airlines network. See the full press release.

Philippine Airlines Ushers in Nonstop Service to SEA

Philippine Airlines (PAL) now offers three weekly nonstop flights to Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Washington State is home to one of the nation’s largest Filipino populations. Travelers flying to Manila on the airline’s Boeing 777-300ER aircraft can connect to PAL’s regional network including destinations like Cebu, Davao, Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Kuala Lumpur. See the full press release.

SAS Will Begin New Route to Seattle in 2025

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) will introduce a new route to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) offering five weekly direct flights from Copenhagen starting late May 2025. Travelers to Copenhagen will have seamless connections to 39 european cities including key destinations such as Berlin, Helsinki, Milan, and Zurich. See the full press release.

Alaska Air Group Unveils New Nonstop Routes to Tokyo and Seoul Incheon

Alaska Air Group announced the launch of Seattle as a new global gateway with daily nonstop flights between Seattle and Tokyo Narita starting May 12, 2025. Nonstop service between Seattle and Seoul Incheon will begin in October 2025. This is the result of the combination of Alaska Airlines with Hawaiian Airlines. Air Group plans to serve at least 12 nonstop global destinations with long-haul widebody aircraft from the Seattle gateway by 2030. See the full press release here.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) Launches Accessibility Program, SEA Access

SEA Access is an interdepartmental collaboration that supports the accessibility needs of customers and workers at SEA Airport through accessible facilities, customer service resources, and community engagement. Its goal is to create a safe, welcoming, and easy travel experience for all. SEA Access is part of Upgrade SEA, an investment of around $1 billion per year for the next five years, to update and upgrade its facilities in order to give passengers more of what they need and love, including accessibility support like:

Zero-grade curbs and ramps at the Arrivals Drive to create step-free access from vehicle to curb with shallower slopes
Restroom upgrades that will add additional family restrooms and restroom facilities with both baby and adult changing tables to multi-user, all-gender restrooms
Accessible facilities like sensory rooms, service animal relief areas and nursing rooms and suites

To learn more about SEA Access and SEA’s ongoing efforts to become the nation’s most accessible airports, visit portseattle.com.

SEA Announces Major Terminal Improvement Projects

A SEA improvement project spanning C and D concourses began in mid-2022 with completion slated for 2027. The project includes some 145,530-square-feet of dining, retail and other amenities, as well as a 20,000-square-foot Alaska Airlines lounge. The heart of the space will be the Grand Stairs in the C concourse with seating, airfield views, music, art, dining and retail.

The Port of Seattle Commission approved a $399 million budget for the C Concourse Expansion project. It has a goal of LEED v4 Silver certification and will be all electric and fossil-fuel free. The multi-phase modernization of SEA’s main terminal will transform the area where C and D Concourses meet by adding four floors to the building’s current three floors. It will also update and re-configure ticketing and security checkpoints and upgrade facility systems to meet new technology and building standards. Spaces will be lightened and opened to enhance flow and the passenger experience, as well as accommodate expected growth in passenger volume with a goal of making SEA Airport the greenest and most efficient port in North America. Phase A construction began in Q4 2022 with an estimated completion in Q2 2024. Phase two began in Q3 2023 and is estimated to be complete in Q3 2026. Learn more: www.portseattle.org

Port of Seattle

Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady Begins Traveling from Seattle to Alaska in 2026

Starting in the Summer of 2026, Brilliant Lady will depart from Seattle to Alaska offering a mixture of itineraries up to 14 nights from May through September. As Virgin Voyages’ fourth ship, Brilliant Lady offers signature touches such as 20+ award-winning eateries, high-end wellness spaces including a mermaid-inspired spa, and an adapted frame allowing the vessel to navigate through the glaciers and fjords of Alaska. Read the full press release here.

Shore Power Now Available at All Seattle Cruise Berths

The Port of Seattle announced that the Belle Street Cruise Terminal at Pier 66 is now shore power enabled thanks to a $44M investment. Shore power allows cruise ships to plug into the Seattle City Light Grid and turn off fuel-based engines, significantly reducing diesel emissions by 80% and CO2 emissions by 66% on average while at berth. Seattle is now one of the first cruise ports offering shore power for simultaneous use at all berths. The Port of Seattle became the first port in the nation to require shore power usage by homeported cruise vessels, starting in 2027. See the full press release here.

Port of Seattle Approves 10-Year Agreement with Carnival Corporation

A 10-year agreement was approved between the Port of Seattle Commission and the Carnival Corporation for the Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Cunard brands to continue to home port in Seattle during the Alaska cruise season. This agreement supports the Port in achieving its zero-emission sustainability goals, bolsters local economic development, and helps boost the economic impact of cruises in the region. Read the full press release here.

Cunard Launches Queen Elizabeth’s 2025 Alaska Season, Roundtrip from Seattle

The British luxury cruise line Cunard Line announced the Queen Elizabeth will call Seattle its homeport in 2025. It will offer 11 voyages in Alaska, ranging from 7 to 11 nights, from June 12 until September 25, 2025. With Alaska Native Voices onboard, including a Cultural Heritage Guide, plus a Naturalist on every sailing to provide distinctive deck commentary, guests can experience the majestic scenery and local culture of Alaska than with Cunard. The trip has 24 late evening departures to allow guests ample time to explore port cities such as Ketchikan and Sitka and join whale-watching expeditions or experience the world’s largest zipline. Read the full press release here.

Additional Air News

Frontier Airlines adds 3 Paine Field routes out of Everett

Starting June 2, three new routes from Frontier Airlines will fly out of Everett to Denver, Las Vegas, and Phoenix three times per week. The nine additional flights are slated to bring an additional 4,000 travelers per week to Paine Field Airport and could lead to an increase of 100,000 annual travelers coming in and out of Everett annually. Read more here.

Four Washington Airports Receive $24M in Funding

U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) announced federal grant funding for Spokane International Airport, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Tri-Cities Airport, and Yakima Air Terminal/McAllister Field through the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Terminal Program. The $24M in funding will go towards addressing aging airport infrastructure. See the full press release here.

Pullman-Moscow Airport Opens New Terminal Allowing for More Daily Flights to Seattle

In August, the Pullman-Moscow Airport opened a new terminal with three gates thanks to federal grant funding. The expansion allows for more flights, including up to two more daily flights to Seattle for a total of five. The airport’s capacity is expected to double over the next decade.

See the press release here

WA Airports Receive $48M for Modernization Projects

Seven airports across the State of Washington received a total of $48 million in funding through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) for critical modernization projects. Spokane International Airport (GEG) received 18M to go towards opening a new terminal and help rehabilitate runway infrastructure. Recipients of the AIP funding include:

Spokane International Airport: $18,162,037
Tri-Cities Airport (Pasco): $12,734,150
Arlington Municipal Airport: $5,178,070
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport: $5,034,379
Sanderson Field (Shelton): $4,300,328
Bowerman Airport (Hoquiam): $2,550,000
Olympia Regional Airport: $129,810

See the press release here

Ferry News

New summer ferry schedule for Anacortes/San Juan Islands route

Starting April 15, 2025, summer vehicle reservations will be available for ferry riders heading to the San Juan Islands. The updated summer schedule runs through Sept. 20, following the successful rollout of the winter and spring changes. The new seasonal schedule includes a more reasonable timetable that helps the ferry stay on time and leads to fewer cancellations. These are the first updates to the Anacortes/San Juan Islands route in over a decade. See the full press release.

WSF Announces Partnership for Building Five New Hybrid-Electric Ferries
As a part of their mission towards zero emissions by 2050, Washington State Ferries announced a new partnership with ABB for building five new hybrid-electric ferries with 160 auto capacity. Additional efforts towards electrifying the ferry system include retrofitting six diesel ferries to hybrid electric, building a total of 16 hybrid ferries, retiring 13 diesel ferries, and adding charging power to 16 terminals in the WSF system. Learn more here.

New electric ferry to Lummi Island

In 2022, the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded a grant to replace the 60-year-old Whatcom Chief ferry with a new and improved electric-hybrid ferry for Lummi Island. The ferry is expected to fit 15-25 cars and will help lower emissions and help provide a cleaner environment around the island. The ferry is scheduled to be unveiled in 2027. Learn more.

Trains

Sound Transit Light Rail Service Expansions

Federal Way Link Extension Underway

The Federal Way Link Extension is currently under construction and will add nearly eight miles to the regional light rail system between SeaTac and Federal Way. Three new stations will connect to other regional transit services and support easy transfers between trains and buses. Once service starts, it will offer fast and convenient travel between downtown Federal Way and SEA Airport in 16 minutes. See the full press release.

Downtown Redmond Light Rail Stations Opening in May

Opening May 10, two new stations in Downtown Redmond will extend the Link 2 Line by 3.4 miles. These additions will provide easy access to concerts and outdoor activities at Marymoor Park, shopping and dining in Downtown Redmond, and the Eastrail corridor for biking and hiking. See full press release.

West Seattle Link Extension Route and Stations Selected

The Sound Transit Board has selected the route and station locations for the West Seattle Link Extension. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 to extend the light rail 4.1 miles and serve four new stations in the SODO, Delridge, and West Seattle neighborhoods. See the full press release here.

Eastlink 2 Line and Lynnwood Extension Now Open

The newest segment of the Sound Transit Light Rail system offers passengers a quick and safe way to travel throughout Bellevue and Redmond. The 6.6 mile line has eight stations with service every 10-minutes for 16 hours a day, seven days a week. Two stations are expected to be added in Redmond in Spring 2025. Learn more here.

The 1 Line is now extended to Lynnwood, adding 8.5 miles and 4 stations with trains running every eight minutes during peak hours. Learn more here.

Amtrak Advances Rail Yard Upgrades in Seattle and New Amtrak Airo Trains

Amtrak plans to make major upgrades to the King Street Yard to enable modern, more efficient maintenance practices. These upgrades will also support the new Amtrak Airo trains entering service in 2026 on the Amtrak Cascades route. The new trains feature a modern and spacious interior with panoramic windows, better fuel efficiency producing 90% less particulate emissions in diesel operations, reduced travel times, and more.

2026 FIFA World Cup

Find more frequent updates here.

Seattle Home to 2026 FIFA World Cup

Seattle, along with 14 other cities in the U.S., will host the FIFA World Cup at Lumen Field in 2026. The upcoming tournament is the first-ever combined bid to feature three nations, the United States, Mexico and Canada, and Seattle will be home to 60 matches. The tournament is expected to collectively generate more than $5 billion in short-term economic activity and produce 40,000 jobs across 14 cities. Read the full press release here.

Fan Zones for FIFA World Cup Announced

Seattle FWC26 has established locations for vibrant fan zones in communities outside of King County so people around the state can take part in the FIFA World Cup 2026. Fan zone locations include:

Bellingham – Whatcom County

Bremerton – Kitsap County

Everett – Snohomish County

Olympia/Lacey – Thurston County

Pasco/Richland/Kennewick (Tri-Cities) – Benton & Franklin Counties

Spokane – Spokane County

Tacoma – Pierce County

Vancouver – Clark County

Yakima – Yakima County

Specific locations in each city will be announced ahead of the tournament. See the full press release here.

Lumen Field One of 12 Stadiums Announced as FIFA Club World Cup 2025™
FIFA has confirmed that Lumen Field will be one of 12 stadiums in the US to stage the new FIFA Club World Cup 2025. The tournament will feature 32 club teams competing for the cup over 29 days. This comes about a year before the FIFA World Cup 26™, which will also be hosted at Lumen Field. See the official press release here.

Outdoor Recreation

Same-Day Camping Reservations Now Available at all State Park Campgrounds

In 2023, Washington State Parks launched a same-day reservation pilot program which expanded to 24 state parks last year. Due to its success, visitors will be able to secure a campsite by booking a same-day reservation until 2 p.m. on their intended day of arrival at all State Park campgrounds. This ensures availability instead of gambling on a first-come, first-served site. This is specific to campgrounds and does not apply to roofed accommodations, vacation rentals, yurts, and day-use facilities. See the full press release.

Lake Sylvia State Park Reopens After Construction and Improvements

Lake Sylvia State Park in Montesano is now open after construction over summer and fall 2024. Improvements include safer and more sustainable infrastructure especially in heavy rain events, construction of pedestrian access to the park, a new road, and a new sidewalk. Lake Sylvia offers year-round camping and is also a destination for hiking, biking, and fishing. See the full press release.

Mount Rainier National Park 2025 Construction Projects

Two major construction projects are scheduled to start in 2025 to replace decades-old infrastructure, improve travel through the park and improve visitor experiences. The Ohanapecosh Campground Rehabilitation Project will upgrade the popular campground with new electrical and water systems, improvements to campground accessibility and more. The State Route 123 construction project will take place over two years to rehabilitate a 2.8 mile section of roadway between Laughingwater Creek and Panther Creek on the east side of the park. See the full press release.

New Zipline at Riverfront Park Expected in 2025

Plans for a zipline going across Spokane Falls are underway. Mica Moon Zip Tours in Liberty Lake is heading up the project, which is currently in its first phase. A zipline across Spokane Falls has been in the works for years. They expect a functioning zipline in the summer of 2025.

The zipline will start at the corner of A Place of Truths Plaza, and it will go down across the river through the southern arch of the Monroe Street Bridge and land in the southeast corner of Redband Park. The route is an estimated 1,300 feet.

Crystal Mountain Opens New Mountain Commons Lodge

Crystal Mountain will be fully opening the Mountain Commons Lodge this winter season. The new 25,000 square feet facility will kick off a new open retail concept called Crystal Mountain Outfitters, additional restrooms, and an expanded slopeside area featuring an outdoor walk-up bar for guests to take in the scenic views. The lodge will host a variety of food and beverage options including the new Brew 62 Cafe, accessible from inside the first floor or via an outdoor walk-up window located behind the ticket booths, Bootpack Bar, and the Mountain Commons Food Hall located on the second floor.

For more information on what is new this season here.

Mount St. Helens Visitor Center Undergoing Renovation, Reopening May 2025

Beginning Sept. 30, 2024, the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center will close temporarily for renovations. Updated exhibits will document the 1980 eruption, the area’s recovery, and the mountain’s process of rebuilding itself over the past 40 years. The center will reopen in time for the 45th anniversary of the eruption on May 18, 2025. The parking lot, plaza, bathrooms, and Wetland Haven Trail will remain open during the closure.

Find more info here.

New Windsurfing Community Hub Opening in Bingen

Francisco Goya, former windsurfing champion of the world, is opening a new showroom for Goya Windsurfing in Bingen, WA which will offer wholesale gear and windsurfing lessons for everyone from beginner to pros, and host community events. The Columbia River Gorge is known worldwide as one of the best places for windsurfing. The expected open date is 2025, learn more here.

New Wheelchair Accessibility Programs Launched in Two Washington State Parks

Lake Wenatchee State Park installed a new Fixed Frame Beach Wheelchair and ADA compliant beach access mats that help visitors with mobility needs access the sandy shore. The beach chair is free to use and can be reserved ahead of time. Read more here.

At Lake Sammamish State Park, an Action Trackchair is now available thanks to a pilot program launched in partnership with the Outdoors for All Foundation. The Action Trackchair assists with movement over uneven terrain, allowing those with mobility needs to access the hiking trails and picnic area at the park. Learn more here.

New Nisqually State Park Developments Underway

The next phase of development for Nisqually State Park is currently underway. This is the first time Washington State Parks has partnered with a local Tribe to create a new park. Themes and details around the lifestyle and culture of the Nisqually people will be prominent in the completed project. The current phase will include the construction of an interpretive plaza and other new operational facilities, the development of a trail system that leads to the Nisqually River and multiple river overlooks. Future developments will include a welcome station, campgrounds, a Village Center, and more. Learn more here.

Mount St Helens Johnston Ridge Observatory Closed Until 2027

State Routed 504 is closed past the Mount St Helens Science & Learning Center at Coldwater at milepost 45.2 due to a landslide in May 2023. As a result, the popular visitor’s center Johnston Ridge Observatory is closed through 2026 while road and bridge repairs are underway. The Science and Learning Center at Coldwater will be the main Forest Service visitor’s center during the Johnston Ridge closure. It is set to open for weekend operations on May 17, 2025 and 7-day-per-week operations on June 14, 2025. Find more information and alternative destinations here.

$15 Million in Funding for Cle Elum Ridge Landscape from Senators Murray and Cantwell

With $15 Million in funding, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources will acquire 9,700 acres of forest land on the Cle Elum Ridge. This project is intended to boost recreation opportunities including the maintenance of over 40 miles of trails, preserve wildlife habitats, protect the Yakima River Basin, and improve community wildfire resilience. Read more here.

Eastrail – New Rail Trail Connecting to Eastlink in 2026

Eastrail is currently under development, turning a historic railroad line into 42 miles of paved trail for walking and biking along the east side of Lake Washington to Snohomish, WA. Once completed, Eastrail will link to over 175 miles of existing regional trails and connect directly to the new Eastlink light rail stations. Portions of the trail are already open, with the rest slated to open in 2026. Additions include the transformation of the historic, 120 years-old, Wilburton Trestle into a 1000-foot-long trail bridge. Read more here.

Tri-Cities, Washington to Host IRONMAN 70.3 Washington Tri-Cities Triathlon in 2024, 2025 and 2026

Visit Tri-Cities will be the lead organization in facilitating the event through a three-year host agreement with IRONMAN and in collaboration with the City of Richland, West Richland and other regional communities and agencies. The international triathlon will also be held on September 22, 2024, September 21, 2025, and September 20, 2026. Each year, the event will bring 2500 athletes plus an additional 7,500 visitors, crews and support staff to the area inducing $6-$8 million in visitor spending to local businesses. Read the full press release here.

Snow Peak Opened First U.S. Campfield in Long Beach, Washington in June 2024

Snow Peak, the Japanese outdoor adventure brand that reimagines outdoor experiences, has opened a campground in Long Beach with accommodation options ranging from tents to minimalist cabins. The site is home to a café and store, with paths connecting guests to Pacific beaches. Long Beach Campfield is the first location in the United States. The brand has five campfields in Japan including in Niigata, Hokkaido, Osaka, Kochi and Oita. More information can be found here.

Tri-Cities, Washington Selected to Host National Horseshoe Pitching Championships in 2024 and 2027
The prestigious National Horseshoe Pitching Association (NHPA) announced in October 2023 that Tri-Cities will host the NHPA World Horseshoe Pitching Championships in 2024 and 2027. Each championship event is expected to bring in nearly $1 million in economic impact to the area. Learn more here.

Food and Beverage

Seattle Southside Unveils Happy Hour Trail

Seattle Southside recently launched a curated collection of 28 restaurants and bars where both visitors and locals can sample flavors of the region at an approachable price. The trail highlights go-to spots for happy hour deals on eclectic cocktails, local wine and beer, and seafood specials at cozy neighborhood spots, waterfront views, and more. The free guide is available for download. Users earn points by checking in at each location to earn exclusive Seattle Southside Swag. See full press release.

Wine Tasting Room Featuring BIPOC-made Wines Opens in Belltown

Belltown’s new wine bar, WeRise Wines, showcases wines by Black, BIPOC, and women winemakers in the Pacific Northwest. Featuring a carefully selected menu of new and old world wines and unique small plate options, WeRise Wines brings a unique flavor to the neighborhood.

Media Contact: Cory O’Born, coborn@visitseattle.org

Washington Welcomes Beverly as 21st American Viticultural Area

Beverly, Washington’s newest AVA, was officially defined as a designated wine-growing region on Oct. 29, 2024. Beverly is located in central Washington between the Royal Slope to the north and Wahluke Slope to the south and sits at 2,415 acres making it one of the smallest appellations in the state. See the full press release here.

Liberty Lake Wine Cellars Attains Sustainable WA Certifications

Sustainable WA is a certification for vineyards based on a broad set of science-based practices such as watershed protection, natural resources, soil health, low-input farming, employee and community stewardship, and climate resiliency. Liberty Lake Wine Cellars has recently completed the process to certify that all of their wines made from the Red Mountain AVA are sourced from Sustainable WA certified vineyards. In addition to the certification, the winery has partnered with Owen Farms of Spokane to provide all their waste grape pomace to feed locally raised Piedmontese cattle. Learn more about Sustainable WA here.

Indigenous Culture

Legends Casino Pow Wow & Stick Games Tournament (5/16/25 – 5/18/25)

The Legends Pow Wow & Stick Game Tournament is a vibrant celebration of Native American culture in the Yakima Valley, bringing together tribes from across the region for a weekend of tradition, competition, and community. Hosted at State Fair Park by Legends Casino, this annual event is a must-visit for those looking to experience the rich heritage of the Yakama Nation. Visitors can browse a variety of Native American arts and crafts vendors, offering handcrafted jewelry, beadwork, woven baskets, and more. Traditional foods, including fry bread, salmon, and Indian tacos, provide a delicious way to experience Indigenous cuisine. More info here.

Saqánpa Jet Boat Tours in Hells Canyon

Explore Hells Canyon like never before on the Saqánpa Jet Boat Tour, where adventure and culture intertwine. Witness ancient petroglyphs, spot wildlife in the rugged canyon walls, and hear Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) legends that bring this land to life. More than a boat ride, this journey is a deep connection to the sacred landscape of the Nez Perce people, told through the voices of those who have called it home for centuries. Tours depart from Clarkston, Washington and travel 35 miles up the Snake River. More info here.

2025 Seafair Indian Days Powwow

Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center in Seattle is hosting the 2025 Seafair Indian Days Powwow. Witness traditional dances in full regalia, savor authentic cuisine, and explore handcrafted jewelry. All are welcome! Learn more about the event here.

Support Indigenous Communities at Tidelands Native Art Gallery

Tidelands Native Art Gallery, an Indigenous-owned creative space that redefines the narrative of Native America, opened in September 2024. It focuses on lifting Indigenous

voices in the arts, media, and cultural innovation. For example, “Project 562,” created by Tidelands founder Matika Wilbur, showcases photographs of 562 recognized Tribes, urban Native communities, and those fighting for federal recognition. It remains on permanent view in the gallery. https://www.thisistidelands.com/

Cannonball Music and Arts Venue Set to Open in Downtown Seattle

In partnership with the Muckleshoot Tribe, New Rising Sun is opening a new arts venue in Downtown Seattle offering two stories of galleries and performing arts space that spans two city blocks. The venue is set to open in spring of 2025. Find more info here.

Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe Takes Over Dungeness and Protection Island National Wildlife Refuges

On August 16, the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe established a co-stewardship agreement with U.S. Fish & Wildlife to take over management of the Dungeness and Protection Island National Wildlife Refuges. This comes as a result of new legislation allowing Tribes to negotiate deals like this, and the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe is the first to do so in Washington State. Both refuges are within the traditional territory of the S’Klallam people. Find more information here.

Seattle Aquarium Announces Partnership with Muckleshoot Tribe

The Seattle Aquarium unveiled its new Ocean Pavilion expansion at the end of August featuring three brand-new immersive experiences. The aquarium also announced a new partnership with the Muckleshoot Tribe to create new programs that showcase Indigenous voices and stories. The partnership celebrates the Tribe’s ancestral connection to the Seattle Waterfront and supports the Aquarium’s culture and science education programs. Learn more about the partnership here.

New Nisqually State Park Developments Underway

Snoqualmie Casino Expansion is Underway, Set to Open 2025

The Snoqualmie Casino announced a multi-phase expansion that will include a new hotel, expanded gaming floor, destination spa, 2,000-seat entertainment and convention center, parking structure and two restaurants with plans for a third in the future. The new space is set to open in early 2025. The casino is located in Snoqualmie, Washington and owned by the Snoqualmie Tribe. Learn more here.

Tulalip Casino Undergoing 2-Year Renovation

Tulalip Casino announced a 2-year renovation plan on its 20th anniversary in late 2023. The project includes a 70,250-square-foot addition and a major renovation to the rest of the property. The scheduled completion is set for late 2025. Learn more here.

New Native-Owned Coffee Shop Works Toward Building Community in Coupeville
Beaver Tales Coffee opened a second location on the Historic Coupeville Wharf. This is just phase one of a multifaceted plan to create the sʷədəbš Cultural Center in the heart of Coupeville dedicated to celebrating local indigenous cultures. Owners Tony and Michelle seek to create a comprehensive center that expands the coffee shop into a restaurant, art gallery, educational space, and gift shop that immerses visitors in the rich heritage of Indigenous communities. Currently, the cafe serves in-house roasted coffee, specialty beverages, fresh baked goods, sandwiches, and salads. Learn more here.

General Developments

WSDOT Releases New EV Mapping and Planning Tool

A new interactive tool is available online that displays information about electric vehicle charging stations around Washington State and surrounding PNW communities. The map also serves as a tool to support EV growth in Washington for helping policy makers and planners make informed decisions about where to add charging stations, moving the state toward a zero-emission future. See the full press release.

Bellevue’s Free BellHop Program Adds Three New Electric Vehicles

Visit Bellevue announced three new vehicle upgrades to the BellHop program, a free electric-vehicle shuttle service. Three new 2025 Kia EV9 vehicles have been added making BellHop one of the first Circuit programs in the nation to integrate these advanced vehicles into free public transportation. Since its inception in August 2023, BellHop has provided over 134,000 rides, covered more than 113,407 miles, and prevented 59.46 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions. See the full press release.

New Broadway Shows Coming to Seattle at The Paramount

The Paramount brings seven broadway shows to Seattle’s renowned theater scene in 2025 welcoming Kimberly Akimbo, Hamilton, Life of Pi, Six, Riverdance, Mamma Mia!, and & Juliet. Find more information here.

Port of Everett’s 5-Year Capital Improvement Plan

The Capital Improvement Plan is in place to continue developing Everett’s waterfront for additional commerce and recreation. This includes building out public infrastructure at Waterfront Place for more destination retail and restaurant opportunities as well as maritime infrastructure updates to modernize the seaport. Learn more here.

Snoqualmie Riverwalk Project

The Snoqualmie Riverwalk Project is now in the early planning stages of a multi-phased, long-term recreational development that will act as a destination trail loop to be enjoyed by residents and visitors. The riverwalk will connect from Snoqualmie Falls to Three Forks Natural Area with trails along the north and south shores. The proposed Snoqualmie Riverwalk will increase public access and enjoyment of the Snoqualmie River, offer a loop system for and public spaces for programming and incorporate sustainable components to preserve the pristine environment. www.snoqualmiewa.gov

Construction of New Seattle Waterfront Underway, Expected Completion in 2025

Waterfront Seattle is rebuilding Alaskan Way from S King to Pike streets, and building a new street, known as Elliott Way, from Pine to Bell streets. The new surface street will span a total of 17 blocks from Pioneer Square to Belltown, with two lanes of traffic in either direction for the majority of the street. This street will also have the honorary name Dzidzilalich, which means “little crossing-over place,” in Lushootseed to honor the lands and shared waters of the Puget Sound Coast Salish People.

The project will add:

Connections to park spaces, restaurants, stores and neighborhoods
Raised street crossings and widened sidewalks for pedestrians
More than 500 new street trees, extensive ground covers and green stormwater infrastructure to manage stormwater runoff on-site
Extensive pedestrian lighting in addition to roadway lighting

Construction began in 2019 and completion is expected in 2025, with delays due to COVID-19 impacts. Learn more about the project and construction timeline here.

Hotels and Lodging

Revel in Wine-Centric Amenities at a New Hotel in Woodinville

Wine enthusiasts will soon have a new place to unwind at The Somm Hotel and Spa, a luxury Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel in Woodinville (a noted wine region 30 minutes from Seattle by car). Amenities include a full-service spa, onsite dining, and unique wine blending experiences. The Somm Hotel and Spa is anticipated to open in 2025. www.TheSomm.com

Under Canvas Opening New Property in the Columbia River Gorge

Under Canvas will open its 13th campground in Washington’s White Salmon River Valley along the Columbia River Gorge in the summer of 2025. Under Canvas offers an upscale camping experience with safari-inspired canvas tents on elevated private decks furnished with a plush king-size bed, luxe linens, USB charging packs, bedside lanterns, a gas fireplace and ensuite bathroom that features a hot pull-chain shower, sink and flushing toilet. The property offers easy access to countless outdoor recreation opportunities and access to White Salmon and other charming Washington towns with coffee shops, restaurants, and wineries. Guests can book “Best of” local experiences through Under Canvas’ Adventure Concierge such as guided hiking, rafting, fishing, mountain biking and more. See the full press release here.

New Sustainable Glamping Experience Near Olympic National Park

Roam Beyond is bringing a new sustainable glamping experience to the Olympic Peninsula. Guests will stay in a mobile dwelling with hot water and power run from solar energy in a secluded area with a front-row view of the Pacific Ocean. Get updates on the campsite here.

Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians Opens New RV Resort in Arlington WA

Just 60 miles north of Seattle, the Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians have opened Angel of the Winds RV Resort on their ancestral lands. The resort features full RV hookups, state-of-the-art restrooms and laundry facilities, easy access to outdoor recreation, swimming pool and hot tub, pickleball courts, an off-leash dog park, and more. Learn more here.

Carbon-Negative Hotel Westland Opening in Seattle in 2025

The second of its kind in the United States, Hotel Westland will be a carbon positive and adaptive reuse boutique hotel in Seattle’s Pioneer Square district. Urban Villages, the real estate developer, has begun construction on the historic warehouse building, revitalizing the structure and turning it into a 120-room hotel with a restaurant, coffee bar, meeting spaces, a penthouse suite and open-air rooftop bar. The hotel will rely on renewable energy and reusable materials, partnering with regional ecology groups to remove carbon from daily operations. Westland marks the third structure in Urban Village’s carbon-negative “micro-district” called RailSpur, with offices and retail spaces already in place and connected by alleyways that host art, music and culinary programming. Learn more here.

Sasquatch Watch Airbnb expected to open in 2025

Located near Mount Rainier National Park, this Sasquatch-themed Airbnb imitates a Bigfoot Cabin Dwelling with Sasquatch thrones, a large bed, custom wood designs and more. The project was funded after the owners entered the idea in Airbnb’s $10M OMG! Fund, awarded to 100 winners across 20 countries. It is expected to open in 2025. Learn more here.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

Althea Conyers Achem

Public Relations, GreenRubino for State of Washington Tourism

E: WATourismPR@greenrubino.com