Wednesday, July 15, 2015

36 Hours in Hood River!



Have you ever wondered what to do on a mini-vacation or how to pack the most into your stay to get some bang for your buck? More importantly, how would YOU spend a 36 hour getaway in the Gorge?!?

The NY Times just posted an article on how they recommend spending 36 hours in Hood River Oregon. Husum Highlands boasts a view you won't get at any other B&B in the gorge, at just a short 30 minute drive from downtown Hood River! Enjoy a relaxing stay at Husum Highlands B&B while spending your 36 hours making the most of the beautiful Columbia Gorge!

Find suggestions for your 36 hour getaway HERE!

Friday, July 3, 2015

Fun Fourth of July Activities!



We are all aware of dangerously dry it is out there this 4th of July, but that doesn’t have to stop your celebrations! While doing your own fireworks may not be on your plate anymore, here are some local activities that are guaranteed to make your 4th of July weekend memorable! Start your day right, with choices from an assortment of parades, exhibitions, markets and celebrations!

Right in our own backyard, the City of Husum is hosting its annual July 4th Parade at 10am! everyone is welcome to participate, either in the parade or as a spectator along the 1/4 mile parade route from the north end of Main St. to the east end of Husum St. Post parade, join in the .1k Micro-Marathon… you heard that correct, it’s a 0.1K (about 100 yards) the perfect race for hot weather! Participants queue up on the bridge over the White Salmon River, and at the cannon blast the race is on to the front of the fire station. It’s a grueling 1/10th kilometer, but there’s a water stop on the course to help ensure everyone stays hydrated, regardless of the temperatures.

After the Micro-Marathon participants all gather in front of the fire station for a group photo, then retire to Taste of the Gorge for free hot dogs and socializing.

Then the White Salmon July 4th Celebration begins at 1:00 pm along Jewett Blvd! Join in for an old-fashioned, patriotic, small-town celebration – a parade, led by the color guard and a large contingent of veterans riding in vintage cars, followed by everything from colorful floats to kids on their bikes, rounded up by some family-oriented fun in the park.

Upon reaching the city park, parade and spectators alike will be welcomed to the music of the White Salmon Jazz Band. Recognition of Veterans will take place at 2:30 with the help of Harmony of the Gorge singing the anthems of the branches of service. The concert will be rounded out by the Gorge Winds Concert Band from 3:00 to 4:00pm. old-fashioned games for kids, hot dogs, and refreshing beverages.



Over in Hood River, you can start your morning off at the Saturday Market, now celebrating its 25th anniversary as a downtown, community staple! Located at the Hood River Middle School, in the spectacular Columbia River Gorge, the market showcases work and products from some of the finest artisans and growers and best live music anywhere!  The market runs from 11am-2pm this Saturday to accommodate for the day’s festivities.

Also starting at 10am is the annual Hood River 4th of July parade sponsored by the local Lions Club! Parade watchers can expect a fly-over sponsored by the folks at the Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum (WAAAM).  Following the parade, festivities can be found at Jackson Park, starting around 11:30am. Activities include fun for the family, with face painting, kids fitness equipment, music and free ice cream, accompanied by a BBQ fundraiser put on by the Hood River Fire Department.

Then, from 11am-4pm, visit Emporium, a pop-up shop at historic Butler Bank, in downtown Hood River. Emporium is a carefully curated collection of apparel, jewelry, accessories, gifts and home goods, made in the Pacific Northwest.



Take a guided tour at the Hood River History Museum, featuring their “Outdoor Recreation: The Heart of Hood River County” exhibit! Have you ever wondered what the first windsurfing board looked like? Well, wonder no more- The “Darby Board” in now on display! Learn how Hood River County’s many trails were formed, how Timberline was built, what to pack for a hike, and much more! This limited time engagement exhibition runs from May 16th- August 29th.


Last but certainly not least, finish up your day with an amazing display of fireworks over the Columbia River! Visible from both Hood River and Bingen/White Salmon, watch a spectacular display of professional fireworks light up over the river and bridge. Fireworks start at 10pm, but plan on finding a viewing spot early.