It is that time of year again when us sun starved Pacific Northwesterners pack up the polar fleece and Gortex, and head out in search of rays and relaxation for Spring Break. Whether we are going down the road, cross state, or jumping on a plane, we surveyed the top destinations amongst the Juniper loyal, and here is what we heard:

1: Warm Up in Palm Springs
Sun-soaked Palm Springs and the surrounding Coachella Valley bring Pacific Northwesterners a welcome hit of dry, warm air with consistent sunny days (just five inches of annual rainfall here- wow!). Remember your sunscreen though, especially after the last 8 months of living in a grey rain cloud.

 

2: Well I’ll be dammed: Grand Coulee Laser Light Show
If you are looking for the best dam laser show at a hydroelectric facility, then look no further than the Bureau of Reclamation’s “One River, Many Voices” show this Spring in beautiful Grand Coulee WA. It’s got something for everyone; history, intrigue, irrigation, all set on a concrete spillway. Dam cool.

 

3: Say Aloha to Honolulu
Direct flights, plate lunches, shave ice, shrimp shacks, and when it rains it’s still warm. What’s not to love?!  Visit the giant Banyan in Waikiki—even better at sunset when droves of visitors sit transfixed shoreside, waiting for the “green flash” with a cocktail in hand.

 

4: Can you find the Pearl? The World’s Largest Oyster Shell
Head toward the Southwest Washington coast to South Bend for the “Oyster Capital of the World.” In homage to this mighty bivalve is a giant concrete, half-oyster shell sculpture. Take a beach stroll on the coast, grab some lunch at nearby cafes and don’t forget to snap a “shellfie!”

 

5: Soak up Scottsdale
Who needs wall-to-wall Douglas firs when you can have sandy trails, golf courses and spas? Scottsdale, Arizona’s desert city darling, is checkered with desertscape of hills, rock formations, cacti, spa resorts and golf courses, including TPC Scottsdale. Let’s work on that swing!

 

6: Fun Out of the Sun: Walk the 2.3-Mile Snoqualmie (Iron Horse) Tunnel
Feel right at home again…in the damp darkness! Visit the Snoqualmie Tunnel, part of Iron Horse State Park, part of an old historic railway. What remains now is an easily hike-able 2.3-mile burrow straight through a mountain in pitch black. Pack that headlamp so you don’t miss the views!

 

If you’re seeking quality commercial real estate investments throughout the Pacific Northwest, we’re here to help. Juniper Capital provides private real estate financing, including hard money loans for commercial, construction, multifamily residential opportunities and more. If you would like more information on this topic, call us today.