Seattle Aquarium
The tunnel underwater is the most impressive thing here. The Oregon Coast Aquarium has something similar, but both are worth seeing. They feed the seals and otters, etc. regularly throughout the day--be sure to check the schedule first thing so you don't miss one. They have a petting tank of sea anenomes for the little ones, and dark tanks full of deep-sea glowing fish. Really worth a visit if you've forgotton it.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
Although the wildlife rehabilitation that takes place is impressive, the permanent displays don't have much that isn't overshadowed by the Woodland Park Zoo. The decor is sometimes rundown, and from the decor it appears that they had their heyday in the 60s and that they're past their prime and in decline. It is something to do if you're stuck in Tacoma, but you definitely don't have to do both zoos.
The Puyallup Fair and Events Center
Built on the grounds of a ex-Japanese Internment Camp, the Puyallup fair is worth an occasional visit. They have twice as many of everything than they need, and the same booths and games as any other country fair. You'll have to fight traffic. There is relatively cheap parking relatively close, unofficial, so you can go get drunk in your car so you can enjoy yourself.
Evergreen State Fairgrounds
So, the Puyallup Fair is twice as big. So what? They have two tilt-a-whirls instead of one, and two of each carnival game. and twice as many people, too. Might as well go closer to home. The logging exhibition is the same every year, and the pig races the same, too. There is NO parking except in their official lot. Try to ride the bus from the Everett Station.
Monroe Library
This library is as good as Sno-Isle Libraries get. It's large and new and fancy, like the Snohomish branch. A good selection, with spacious, sunny, pleasant areas. Compared to the previous Monroe Library, its a big improvement in the beauty of the area, and selection, but I miss the down-to-earthness of the old one. The new one's kinda sterile compared.
City of Sultan Library
Compared to more urban Sno-Isle Libraries, you'd be disappointed in the selection. But the library is as large as its community, and they fill the space well. All the hosted events they use the community room next door, so business as usual is never compromised. No late fees, and return books to any sno-isle in the system. Somewhat over-postered, especially in the entrance.
Vision Quest Educational Center
If you know someone who's got an alternative mind, whether it is reiki, dragons, tarot, crystals, or palmistry, they would love you to show them this store. There's nothing you couldn't find here and there at cheaper prices, some even at Spencer's, but not all at once. And your alternative friend wants to give this independent business their business anyways. Guess what it smells like? Incense! Surprised?
Little Nickel Classifieds
Much better than the Herald or Pickle Press, because you get more classified-interested readers. Little Nickel is one of the only advertising mediums that broke even for me when I was in business. (ValPak was the other). But try Craigslist.org first, it's fast and free, so you have nothing to lose. Little Nickel WILL edit your ad without your permission if they don't like it, think it's strange, or whatever.
Pickle Press
You get a much better deal in the Herald or Little Nickel. Pickle Press might have big subscription numbers, but they send to EVERYONE in the county,like it or lump it, which means most subscribers aren't reading it, just tossing it. But in the Nickel, you know that every paper means a reader. Better yet, try Craigslist. it's free, and fast.
Deseret Industries Thrift Store
Deseret is a large fancy thrift store that is willing to carry junk unlike a lot of its competitors. Donated valuables and antiques get auctioned monthly. The sales are sometimes really really good, which you don't see very often in large thrift stores anymore. They have a 50% and 75% color tag. PLEASE NOTE that they are getting in many donated store returns, which have a 95% chance of something being wrong with them. So paradoxically if it looks NEW than it's probably bad.
