Go East to Go West: 5 Western Adventures for Seattle-Area Families

Strolling the wooden boardwalk along the main street of Winthrop, Wash. feels like walking back in time. A restoration project completed in 1972 mirrors how the town looked in 1900. Children who’ve run out of patience during the long car ride will shriek with delight once they’re sitting in a saddle devouring an ice cream cone from Sheri’s Sweet Shoppe.

Time your trip right and sidle up to the fence for some more bronco busting at one of Winthrop’s rodeos that bookend summer: Memorial Day (May 27–28, 2023) or Labor Day (Sept. 2–3, 2023). Don’t leave town without a visit to the Shafer Museum, where remnants of ranching, mining and homesteading stand amidst a village of buildings.

In the town of Okanogan, Wash., the Okanogan County Historical Society offers the chance to traipse back in time and take a close-up look at a blacksmith’s shop, a replica of a photographer’s studio from the Old West era and a log cabin. This spot remains closed; check back for possible reopening.

In the town of Omak, Wash., the Omak Stampede & World Famous Suicide Race together rank as the biggest event of the year. Cheer on rodeo performers, view a Native American encampment with more than 100 teepees and enjoy Native dances. The Stampede is currently scheduled for Aug. 10–13, 2023.

On the way to Molson, Wash., 55 miles north of Omak, you’ll want to explain to the kiddos what a ghost town is, why they happen, and that it might be a bit creepy there. When the railroad abandoned this place and the gold mining stopped, the population dwindled. (Discover more Washington ghost town adventures.)

Where to stay: Camp at nearby Pearrygin Lake State Park or Big Twin Lake Campground. Non-campers can try Methow River Lodge & Cabins or Hotel Rio Vista in the heart of downtown Winthrop. In Omak, bed down at the Best Western Peppertree Inn.

Where to eat: Stop in at the family-friendly Three Fingered Jack’s Saloon or try Arrowleaf Bistro.

More ideas: Visit Okanogan Country and Omak Chamber of Commerce.

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