2013 U.S. Go Congress

http://www.tillicumvillage.com/ (206) 623 - 1445

Begin your 4-hour escape with a narrated cruise from downtown Seattle, Pier 55 to Blake Island State Park. Upon arrival to Tillicum Village, you are greeted with steamed clams in nectar. Make your way into the longhouse and watch as whole salmon are cooked in a traditional Northwest Coast Indian style. Enjoy a fabulous salmon buffet meal followed by a show that highlights the Coast Salish tribes through storytelling and symbolism. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore the grounds and gift shop before returning to Seattle.

Blake Island is located 8 miles from Seattle’s Central Waterfront and accessible only by private or charter boat, via Argosy Cruises. The island was named after Captain George Blake, commander of the US Coast Survey vessel in 1837. Blake Island State Park was an ancestral campground of the Suquamish and Duwamish Indian Tribes and is believed to be the birthplace of Chief Seattle. The island is densely wooded with many forested walking and hiking trails and 5 miles of beaches. Vegetation on the island includes native Northwest trees and shrubs. Wildlife on the island includes deer, chipmunks, otters, squirrels, mink and many types of birds. As a state park, the island also offers the opportunity for camping.

Directions: Northbound on I-5

Take the Madison St. exit. Turn left on Madison and continue down the hill to Alaskan Way. Turn right on Alaskan Way; Pier 56 will be on your left.

Parking for Piers 55/56

Public parking lots, which charge a fee, are available close to Piers 55/56. Meter parking under the Alaskan Way viaduct/99 is good for two hours and numerous pay lots are in the area.