Traveling While Black: Edmonds, WA
We are back with another edition of Traveling While Black! As you know, we're always on the lookout for new places to explore and share with you. This time, our journey took us back to Edmonds, Washington, a quaint city nestled 15 miles north of Seattle. While we've passed through Edmonds before, this visit was dedicated to truly uncovering what this smaller, yet charming city has to offer.
The Overview:
The ferry terminal in Edmonds, WA
Edmonds, with a population of less than 43,000, ranks as the 30th largest city in Washington. It's a place that balances small-town charm with the scenic beauty of its Puget Sound waterfront—a city that piqued our interest during a previous ferry ride to Port Angeles.
The Drive Grade: Seattle to Edmonds
The journey to Edmonds from Seattle is short and sweet, usually taking about 30 minutes. Here’s how it scored on our scale:
Quality of Views: 1/2 points – The views on the way to Edmonds are nice, but don't quite capture the quintessential Washington scenery until you get into the city of Edmonds.
Roadside Amenities: 2/2 points – The drive offers all the necessary amenities, gas stations, restaurants, etc. making it easy to pull off the highway at any time.
Route Simplicity: 2/2 points – It's a straightforward route up highway I-5 North, which makes this a very easy drive. However, there will be traffic depending on what time you leave.
Roadside Attractions: 1/2 points – There are a few attractions worth noting, like the University of Washington and Northgate Mall. Though not very many that would have you pull off the highway, especially since the drive isn’t very long.
Quality Parking Options: 2/2 points – Edmonds has a lot of free parking options, which made Anthony very happy!
Overall Drive Grade for Edmonds, WA: 8/10
Level of Fun Rating: Edmonds, WA
Our first true exploration of Edmonds was filled with anticipation. We ventured into the city with a few recommendations from friends and we were ready to put our unique TWB rating scale to the test.
Quality of Activities: 1/2 points - Edmonds offers a variety of activities, especially for those who love the water. Its vibrant downtown features shops and restaurants and we enjoyed visiting the Edmonds Historical Museum housed in a 1910 Carnegie Library building. However, compared to other cities like Everett, Edmonds’ activities seemed a bit limited.
Demographic Applicability: 1/2 points - The city appears to cater more to an older demographic and families with young children, potentially missing options for fun for younger singles.
Quality of Restaurants and Special Events: 2 points each: 4/4 points - Our culinary experiences in Edmonds were exceptional, with highlights including Ono Poke and Salt and Iron. While no events were happening during our visit, Edmonds is known for hosting several throughout the year.
Affordability: 0/2 points - Edmonds is very expensive, with living costs estimated at 120% of the national average. This aspect significantly impacts its overall affordability.
Level of Fun Rating for Edmonds, WA: 6/10
Comfortability for Black People: Edmonds, WA
Approaching a new city always brings questions about the experience for Black travelers. In Edmonds, we sought insights on living the Black experience from locals, Alicia Edwards and Jacque Julian, Executive Director of Communities for Coalition. This helped shape our understanding of the city’s social dynamics.
Here’s how the city stacked up against of comfortability for Black People Rating:
Current Black Population Numbers: 0/2 – No points here because Edmonds has a low Black population of only 2%.
Amount of Black People Seen: 2/2 – Despite a low percentage of Black residents, we were pleasantly surprised by the number of Black individuals we encountered while visiting the city.
Prevalence of Black History: 0/2 points – We found no significant artifacts of Black history in Edmonds, which was disappointing considering the city of Edmonds was named after a Senator who fought for Black civil rights during Reconstruction.
Visibility of Inclusion: 2/2 points – We saw a lot of pride flags and Black Lives Matter signs throughout the city of Edmonds, which indicated a community striving towards inclusivity.
Personal Comfort: 2/2 points – Our personal experiences in Edmonds were positive, we had welcoming interactions and friendly conversations with the people we ran into.
Comfortability for Black People Rating for Edmonds, WA: 6/10
We’d like to note: Edmonds shows promise in becoming more inclusive, though there are still areas that need attention. Our overall experience was positive, but we acknowledge the need for ongoing progress in social inclusion.
Final Thoughts on Edmonds:
Our visit to Edmonds offered a mix of history, great food, and a glimpse into the community’s efforts towards inclusivity. While it may not have all the attractions of larger cities, its charm and commitment to fostering a welcoming environment are evident. We leave Edmonds with a sense of hope for its future, appreciating both its beauty and the potential for growth in its social fabric.
Watch our full experience on our YouTube episode!
Traveling While Black: Everett, WA
Welcome back to Traveling While Black, where we share our journeys, experiences, and insights on cities across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. In this episode, we’re revisiting Everett, WA, a place we last explored in 2021. That visit was part of our “Potential Mover’s Series,” where we evaluated cities for their livability and potential as new homes. But this time, we’re here to experience Everett from a fresh perspective—a summer getaway in the city.
The Overview
Everett, Washington, is the 7th largest city in the state, known for its naval station and one of the largest factories in the world. Despite its size, Everett maintains a small-town feel, enhanced by its location on the shores of the Puget Sound. With the summer sun shining, we knew we were in for some stunning views and outdoor adventures.
The Drive Grade: Seattle to Everett
The drive from Seattle to Everett is a straightforward one, but it’s important to time your departure wisely. We learned this the hard way when we hit heavy traffic, turning what should have been a quick trip (typically 45 minutes) into a longer one (one hour+). Nevertheless, the route is a breeze with its easy navigation up Interstate 5 North.
Here’s how the drive scored on our scale:
Quality of Views: 1/2 points – The drive doesn’t offer many spectacular views, but you can catch glimpses of the surrounding mountains once you touchdown in Everett, WA.
Roadside Amenities: 2/2 points – On the route, there are plenty of options for food, gas, and more. You’ll pass by the University of Washington and Northgate Mall too. You’ll even pass the city of Edmonds (check out our Edmonds YouTube episode).
Route Simplicity: 2/2 points – It’s a straight shot up the interstate, making it an easy drive.
Roadside Attractions: 2/2 points – There are lots of interesting stops between Seattle and Everett, worthy of a visit on their own. Like mentioned above, the University of Washington and Northgate mall!
Quality Parking Options: 0/2 points – When we were visiting Everett, parking was requiring payment for many places. We even hit “event rates” during our visit, making it pricier.
Our Drive Grade Rating for Everett, WA: 7/10
Level of Fun: Everett, WA
Our return to Everett was all about fun, and the city didn’t disappoint. From its special events to its natural beauty, Everett offered plenty to keep us entertained.
Quality of Activities: 2/2 points - Everett shines in the summer, especially with its outdoor activities. We kicked off our visit with a picnic on Jetty Island Beach. Jetty Island is a human-made island just offshore, boasting the longest sandy beach in the Puget Sound. What makes this beach unique is its warm ocean water! Which is rare because a lot of the water in the Pacific Northwest is cold all year around!
We also immersed ourselves in Everett’s vibrant art culture at the APEX Art & Culture Center, home to the world’s largest and most historically accurate collection of American graffiti and urban art on canvas. Touring the exhibit with Gloryanne Carswell, aka Baby G, the Art Curator for The American Graffiti & Urban Art Conservation Project, was a highlight. We learned about the museum’s mission and the stories behind the art, deepening our appreciation for the culture that inspired it.
For a taste of local flavor, we visited Obsidian Beer Hall, a Black-owned beer hall in the heart of Everett. Not only was the beer fantastic, but the hall also features a gallery showcasing local BIPOC artists—a perfect blend of culture and community.
Demographic Applicability: 2/2 points - Everett offers something for everyone, from families to solo travelers. The Imagine Children’s Museum is a must-visit for families, and the Funko Headquarters—a 17,000 square foot wonderland of Funko Pop Figures—is sure to delight kids and adults alike.
Affordability: 1/2 points - While Everett is one of the more expensive cities in the country, it’s still cheaper compared to other cities in the area.
Quality of Restaurants: 2/2 points - We had some delicious meals at a variety of spots, from Asian-inspired dishes at Fisherman Jack’s to Italian classics at Lombardi’s. We even enjoyed some great coffee and pastries at Choux Choux Bakery and Narrative Coffee Co.
Special Events: 2/2 points - Everett is a hub of summer events. During our visit, we caught two concerts—Music on the Marina and Rock the Boat at Boxcar Park. But the event that stole our hearts was Geekfest West, a locally owned and operated celebration of all things geeky, from cosplay to gaming tournaments.
Our Level of Fun Rating for Everett, WA: 9/10
Comfortability for Black People: Everett, WA
In our previous visit, Everett’s comfort score was impacted by some unfortunate incidents, but this time, we were pleased to see improvements this time we visited.
Here’s how Everett scored for our comfortability for Black people rating:
Black Population Percentage & Number of Black People Seen: 2 points each - total 4/4 points – We saw quite a few other Black people during our visit, and Everett’s 6.3% Black population is considered high for Washington state.
Visibility of Inclusion: 1/2 points – While not as visible as in some other cities, Everett shows some signs of inclusion, particularly through exhibits like the graffiti museum at the APEX Art & Culture Center.
Prevalence of Black History: 1/2 points – Everett has some cool Black history, such as Mary Jane Green, the city’s oldest resident on record, and Manima Wilson, the first Black woman to graduate from the University of Washington.
Personal Comfort: 2/2 points – We felt comfortable everywhere we went in Everett, which was an improvement from our last visit. We would return!
Overall Black Comfort Rating for Everett, WA: 8/10
Final Thoughts:
Our second trip to Everett confirmed that the city has a lot to offer, from stunning summer views to a vibrant arts scene. Whether you’re exploring the city’s rich history, enjoying a picnic on Jetty Island, or sipping on craft beer at a Black-owned beer hall, Everett is a city that welcomes and entertains. Everett is a must-visit destination for any traveler.
Watch the full YouTube episode on Everett, WA!
Traveling While Black: Bellingham, WA
Welcome to our latest adventure in the Pacific Northwest! If you’ve been following us for a while, you know that we have a lot of episodes in Washington State, and this time, we’re taking you to Bellingham, a charming coastal city nestled between Seattle and the Canadian border.
The Overview:
We first visited Bellingham back in August 2020 as a surprise birthday getaway for Anthony. At that time, Traveling While Black was still newish, and our visit was during the pandemic. Fast forward to today, and Bellingham, like our show, has evolved. This time around, we returned to experience the city without pandemic restrictions, allowing us to dive deeper into its history, community, and the outdoors.
Bellingham is known for its beautiful scenery and easy access to outdoor activities, making summertime the perfect season to head to this city. With a new perspective and more freedom to explore, we were excited to see what had changed and how the city welcomes Black travelers today.
A Rich History:
Our journey through Bellingham wouldn’t be complete without delving into its history. Before Bellingham became the bustling city it is today, the area was home to the Coast Salish Peoples for centuries. It wasn’t until 1792 that George Vancouver named the area Bellingham Bay, setting the stage for the city’s eventual formation.
We were fortunate to connect with WWU Professor, Josh Cerretti, who shared fascinating insights into Bellingham’s past. The city's development was marked by the merging of smaller villages, but it wasn’t without its struggles. The competition between Fairhaven and Whatcom to become the dominant city is a story of stubbornness and eventual compromise that shaped Bellingham into what it is today. See more about the history on our YouTube episode.
However, Bellingham’s history isn’t just about names and mergers. Like many American cities, its growth was driven by industry, but this also brought challenges, including periods of exclusion and discrimination. Learning about these darker chapters from Professor Cerretti was eye-opening, especially as we contrasted them with the more inclusive atmosphere we experienced during our visit.
Drive Grade: Seattle to Bellingham
Driving to Bellingham from Seattle is a drive up Interstate 5 North, taking about an hour and a half (or closer to two hours with traffic). The drive offers some scenic views, especially as you approach Bellingham.
Here’s how the drive scored on our rating scale:
Quality of Views: 1/2 points - The views improve as you get closer to Bellingham, but they’re not the most spectacular we’ve seen in Washington. You’ll see the mountains during certain periods of the drive and pass by some rivers and lakes.
Roadside Amenities: 2/2 points - There are plenty of places to stop for gas, food, and other essentials on the way to Bellingham. You’ll pass the major city of Everett on your way there, which is a great spot for gas and food.
Route Simplicity: 2/2 points - Driving from Seattle the route is easy. You’ll drive up I-5 North with no confusing turns or detours.
Roadside Attractions: 1/2 points - There are not many notable attractions along the route, but we’ll give a point for the casinos you’ll pass on the way up.
Quality Parking Options: 1/2 points - Parking in Bellingham mostly requires payment, but since our hotel was centrally located to downtown, we were able to walk to a lot of destinations to avoid paying a lot for parking.
Overall, we rated the drive a 7 out of 10.
Level of Fun: Bellingham, WA
This time in Bellingham, we stayed at the same place as we stayed when we visited in 2020: Hotel Leo. This historic hotel, once the Leopold Hotel, continues to attract with its blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. From the Clark Gable-inspired theater to the library and fitness room, it’s a great base for exploring the city.
Bellingham is known for its outdoor activities, so naturally, we took a stroll on the South Bay Trail through Boulevard Park. This light hike offered us a chance to soak in the natural beauty of the area without too much exertion. The path was paved for most of it, which makes it assessible for many. The park has a rocky beach with a few benches.
Beyond nature, Bellingham offers a wealth of activities, from exploring local history to enjoying its vibrant bar scene, thanks to its college-town vibe.
Here’s how the city scored on our Level of Fun scale:
Quality of Activities: 2/2 points - With plenty of outdoor options and historical sites to explore, Bellingham offers something for everyone.
Demographic Applicability: 2/2 points - Bellingham is a college town, so there are plenty of options for everyone!
Affordability: 0/2 points - While cheaper than Seattle, Bellingham’s cost of living is still above the national average, and its housing market is notoriously expensive.
Quality of Restaurants: 1/2 points - We had a fantastic meal at Brandywine Kitchen, a Black-owned restaurant with fresh, locally sourced options, but we struggled to find other standout dining experiences in the city.
Special Events: 2/2 points - Bellingham’s calendar is packed with events, including the Downtown Sounds concert series we attended, which was a highlight of our trip.
Overall, we rated Bellingham a 7 out of 10 for Level of Fun.
Comfortability for Black People Rating: Bellingham, WA
During our first visit, Bellingham scored a perfect 5 out of 5 for comfortability for Black people. This time, with our new 10-point rating scale, we wanted to see how the city would fare.
Amount of Black People Seen: 2/2 points - We were pleasantly surprised to see more Black people this time! With the Black population numbers low, we still were able to meet the local Black population.
Black Population Numbers: 0/2 points - The Black population in Bellingham is still just 1%, so no points here.
Prevalence of Black History: 1/2 points - The city could do more to highlight its Black history, but thanks to our visit with Professor Cerretti, we learned about some significant sites, see more in our YouTube episode.
Artifacts of Inclusion: 2/2 points - We saw plenty of signs of inclusion, from Black Lives Matter signs to Pride flags, and even a monument acknowledging past injustices against Asian communities.
Personal Comfort Level: 2/2 points - We felt comfortable and welcomed throughout our visit, especially when interacting with local Black residents and those at Hotel Leo.
Overall, Bellingham scored a 7 out of 10 for comfortability for Black travelers.
Final Thoughts:
Bellingham remains a city that offers plenty of natural beauty and a decently welcoming atmosphere for Black travelers. While it has its challenges, especially in terms of affordability and visibility of Black history, our overall experience was positive. We hope this guide helps you plan your visit and experience all that Bellingham has to offer!
Watch full YouTube episode on the experience!
Traveling While Black Across America RoadTrip: Stop #4 - Billings, MT
Us at Zimmerman Park in Billings, MT
Welcome to the last stop of our Traveling While Black Across America (Volume 1) series! A little background on this series, we decided to hop on the road to take (and document) a roadtrip from Wentzville, MO to Billings, MT.
If you’re new here, our show Traveling While Black usually has us in the Pacific Northwest or flying to international destinations, but we realized that many don’t know what middle America is like OR how safe it is for Black travelers. So, we decided it was time for us to expand our show to help those who may be wondering what it’s like to drive and stop in four cities: Kansas City, MO; Denver, CO; Cheyenne, WY; and Billings, MT. For each city will provide our typical ratings too: Drive Grade, Level of Fun, and Comfortability For Black People!
Here’s our experience in Billings, MT!
The Overview:
Billings drew us in with its history, amazing access to the outdoors, and vibrant craft beer scene. According to our research, Billings has a unique twist on the railroad industry story, with similarities to the other Rocky Mountain state cities we visited.
Just like Cheyenne (our 3rd episode), Billings' origins are tied to the railroad, specifically the Northern Pacific Railroad, which established the city in 1882.
Historical Impact of Redlining in Billings:
By that time the West had developed its own tactics for dealing with Black and immigrant populations, the railroad company divided the city with a railroad track. On the north side of the track were where white residents were able to live and on the south side of the tracks were where the Chinese, Japanese, and Black population were able to live.
Black History of Billings:
Despite the discrimination, Black pioneers like Walker Browning and his family played influential roles in the community, advocating for social mobility and helping to establish the city's only Black church.
Knowing the contributions of Black cowboys and cowgirls to Montana's history, we were excited to see how these contributions were commemorated in Billings.
Drive Grade:
Cheyenne, WY to Billings, MT
The drive from Cheyenne to Billings took about 7 hours, excluding stops. Without the windstorm we encountered driving to Cheyenne, we were able to appreciate the beauty of the landscape along the way, even with a bit of rain. The Big Sky nickname for Montana is so true, as the expansive land makes the blue sky seem even larger.
Us in Douglas, WY!
Our drive included some unique stops, starting with the world's largest Jackalope statue in Douglas, Wyoming. However, a subscriber warned us that the city might not be Black-friendly, so we didn't stay long. We also made a quick stop to Sheridan, Wyoming, we were intrigued by signs for the Black Diamond Trail, though poor service prevented us from researching further what this was all about. But it could be a cool stop! The highlight of our drive was the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument in Montana, this was a powerful and educational experience that made us appreciate the area's history. We definitely recommend a stop at this National Monument!
Here's how the drive from Cheyenne to Billings fared against our rating scale:
Quality of Views: 2/2 points - The breathtaking landscape and expansive sky were as beautiful as we imagined. We can see why it’s called Big Sky!
Roadside Amenities: 1/2 points - There were a lot of options for gas and food on the drive. We did dock a point for this ride because of the potentially unfriendly stop in Douglas, WY.
Route Simplicity: 2/2 points - Even though we took three different highways, the open road and high speed limits made the drive feel easy and freeing. It was the first time we saw a speed limit of 80 MPH!
Roadside Attractions: 2/2 points - We stopped at three places, the one that stood out the most to us was The Little Bighorn Monument. This stop alone made this drive memorable!
Quality Parking Options: 1/2 points - There was a decent amount of parking in Billings, but we had to pay each time! You all know how Anthony feels about paying for parking!
Overall, we rated the drive an 8 out of 10, making it our favorite drive of the whole road trip.
Level of Fun Rating: Billings, MT
To try and enjoy Billings, we decided to dive into the local culture. Based on our research, we explored the city's history, craft beer scene, and outdoors.
We started with the Western Heritage Center Museum, housed in the historic Parmly Billings Memorial Library building. The museum offered intriguing exhibits, including ones focused on Native American experiences in the West. After the museum, we hit the Billings Brew Trail, a self-guided tour through the historic downtown that includes breweries, distilleries, a cider mill, and a winery. Our favorite stop was the local distillery, UnDammed!
For our outdoor experience, we headed to Zimmerman Park just outside the city for a hike. The park's loop trail offered breathtaking views and was a calming experience at the end of our road trip.
Here's how Billings scored on our Level of Fun scale:
Quality of Activities: 1/2 points - The museum and brew trail were interesting, but the activities left a lot to be desired.
Demographic Applicability: 0/2 points - Billings has limited options for fun and the abundance of casinos hurt the city's appeal across different demographics. There are casinos EVERYWHERE.
Affordability: 2/2 points - One good thing about Billings is it was affordable! Plus, Montana doesn’t have a sales tax, was a bonus!
Quality of Restaurants: 1/2 points - We enjoyed a few restaurants in Billings, but there weren’t a huge selection of options. If you want to support a Black-owned restaurant while there, check out Sassy Biscuit!
Special Events: 0/2 points - Billings does not have any professional sports teams. When we were visiting a PBR even was taking place, but we did not attend.
Overall, we rated Billings a 4 out of 10 for Level of Fun.
Comfortability for Black Travelers: Billings, MT
Comfortability for Black travelers is crucial. Billings has a very low Black population percentage (less than 1%)! Plus, the city's Black history wasn't visible, which was disappointing given Montana's rich history of Black cowboys.
Here's how Billings scored on our Comfortability for Black People scale:
Amount of Other Black People Seen: 2/2 points - Even though the population is less than 1%, we saw more Black people than expected! This was a pleasant surprise.
Most Recent Black Population Numbers: 0/2 points - As we mentioned before, the Black population percentage is only 1%, so we can’t give any points here.
Prevalence of Black History: 0/2 points - Billings didn’t show a lot about their Black history. We did learn more about a Black family that was visible in the city. You can learn more about them in our episode!
Visibility of Inclusion Signs: 1/2 points - Billings didn’t have a lot of inclusion signs, but we saw a few supporting the LGBTQ community.
Our Personal Feelings of Comfort: 1/2 points - Overall, Billings felt very cold. We don’t know if that’s because of the city overall or because of the lack of diversity.
Overall, we rated Billings a 4 out of 10 for Comfortability for Black People.
Our Final Thoughts on Billings
Overall, Billings, MT fell short in terms of inclusivity and comfort for Black travelers (in our opinion). Despite this, we appreciated the opportunity to explore this part of the country and gain new perspectives.
Billings was our final stop in volume 1 of our road trip series! This trip taught us a lot about America and ourselves. We encourage everyone to take a road trip, even if it's a short one, to see the diverse beauty and experiences our country has to offer.
Thank you for joining us on this adventure from Wentzville, Missouri, to Billings, Montana. Be sure to follow us for updates on our next journey and subscribe to our blog for real-time updates and behind-the-scenes content.
Watch our experience in Billings, MT!
Traveling While Black Across America RoadTrip: Stop #3 - Cheyenne, WY
Us in front of the Cheyenne Railroad Depot
Welcome to another stop on our Traveling While Black Across America (Volume 1) series! As a reminder, we took a road trip from Wentzville, MO to Billings, MT, highlighting each city's unique aspects and evaluating them for Black travelers. If this is the first time you’re reading our blog, our show Traveling While Black, usually covers the Pacific Northwest or international destinations, but we wanted to shine a light on middle America and its safety for Black travelers. So, we decided it was time for us to expand our show to help those who may be wondering what it’s like to drive and stop in four cities: Kansas City, MO; Denver, CO; Cheyenne, WY; and Billings, MT. For each city we will provide our typical ratings too: Drive Grade, Level of Fun, and Comfortability For Black People!
This is our review of our stop in Cheyenne, WY!
The Overview:
History of Cheyenne:
Cheyenne, the capital of Wyoming, boasts a rich history tied to the American railroad, specifically the Union Pacific Railroad. Established in 1867 as the Union Pacific's Mountain Region Headquarters, the city's rapid growth and economic boom were fueled by the railroad's influence. Cheyenne's unique history is evident in its architecture and city layout, with landmarks like the Wyoming State Capitol and the Union Pacific Railroad Depot standing as testaments to its past.
During our visit, we aimed to explore this history and see how Cheyenne, with its small Black population, would fare in terms of our travel experience as Black visitors.
Drive Grade:
Denver, CO to Cheyenne, WY
Let’s talk about our road trip experience, or what we call our Drive Grade Rating. Our road trip from Denver to Cheyenne was short, about an hour and forty-five minutes. What was intense about this drive was… the WIND of Wyoming. We drove through a legit wind storm. It was pretty crazy seeing semi’s blown over and pulled over on the way up. They ended up closing the highway later that night, so we got into Cheyenne just in time! Because of the wind, we weren’t able to stop at any attractions, but since the drive was short - we didn’t feel like we were missing anything.
Now let’s get to how we rated the drive:
Quality of Views: 1/2 points - While the landscape is beautiful, the notorious Wyoming winds significantly impacted our view experience.
Roadside Amenities: 1/2 points - The route had few gas stations and restaurants. We suggest filling up before you leave Denver, just in case.
Route Simplicity: 1/2 points - The straightforward drive was overshadowed by treacherous winds, making it a challenging journey, especially for truck drivers.
Roadside Attractions: 0/2 points - The severe wind conditions made it impossible to stop and enjoy any potential attractions along the way. Hopefully on the next ride, we can stop at some attractions!
Quality Parking Options: 2/2 points - Cheyenne offered ample free and premium parking, a highlight of our drive. Anthony loved this aspect about Cheyenne!
Overall, we rated the drive a 5 out of 10, mainly due to the challenging wind conditions.
Level of Fun Rating: Cheyenne, WY
Cheyenne offers a variety of activities, though they are somewhat limited. During our visit to Cheyenne we caught up with the history and checked out to some great restaurants!
Here's our thoughts on Cheyenne’s level of fun:
Quality of Activities: 1/2 points - The city has great attractions like the Cheyenne Depot Museum and Curt Gowdy State Park. However, the range of activities is somewhat limited depending on what you like to do.
Demographic Applicability: 1/2 points - The city's history appeals more to older visitors and families with young children, while its outdoor offerings cater to a broader audience. For a younger crowd, it may be hard to find fun!
Affordability: 2/2 points - Cheyenne is very affordable, with the lowest cost of living in the Rocky Mountain states. This makes it a great option if you’re looking for an affordable travel option.
Quality of Restaurants: 2/2 points - Cheyenne has some great restaurants! We enjoyed excellent meals at local spots like Epic Egg and Railspur (be sure to get the birria tacos if you go here!). We were pleasantly surprised with the restaurant selection!
Special Events: 1/2 points - Cheyenne doesn’t have any professional sports teams, but they host one of the largest outdoor rodeos in the country, Frontier Days. We weren’t able to attend this year, but hopefully we will in the future.
Overall, we rated Cheyenne a 7 out of 10 for Level of Fun.
Comfortability for Black Travelers: Cheyenne, WY
This category is crucial for our travel experience. Cheyenne’s Black population is currently at 3.4%. With a city with that low of a population, it was important for us to visit this city.
Here's how Cheyenne scored in our Comfortability for Black people rating:
Amount of Other Black People Seen: 2/2 points - We were pleasantly surprised to see more Black people than expected during our visit. With a low Black population percentage, we did see a good amount of Black people in the city.
Most Recent Black Population Numbers: 0/2 points - We couldn’t give any points here, because the Black population in Cheyenne is less than 3%. We did a chance to speak to Jazminn Coleman, owner of The Louise event center. Jazminn gave us insight on what the Black experience is like in Cheyenne (see more in our episode!).
Prevalence of Black History: 1/2 points - While we didn't find many explicit monuments to Black history. There are some Black history, like Sam “Bronco Sam” Stewart, who was one of the first Black rodeo icons.
Visibility of Inclusion Signs: 1/2 points - We didn't see many explicit signs of inclusion, but there were signs of inclusion at dedicated to this impact women made in Cheyenne.
Our Personal Feelings of Comfort: 2/2 points - Although Cheyenne had a low Black population, we felt comfortable and welcomed throughout our visit. There were friendly interactions with locals and staff at the various places we explored!
Overall, we rated Cheyenne a 6 out of 10 for Comfortability for Black People.
Our final thoughts on Cheyenne:
Overall, Cheyenne, WY, offered a unique blend of history, affordability, and friendly interactions. Despite the crazy wind storm we encountered on the way there, we enjoyed our visit and found the city welcoming. Cheyenne's rich history and beautiful landscapes make it a worthwhile stop on any road trip, especially if you're interested in the story of the American railroad.
Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for updates on our journey and follow us on social media for real-time updates and behind-the-scenes content!
Check out the Cheyenne, WY
YouTube Episode!
Traveling While Black Across America RoadTrip: Stop #2 - Denver, CO
Welcome to the second stop of our Traveling While Black Across America (Volume 1) series! A little background on this series, we decided to hop on the road to take (and document) a roadtrip from Wentzville, MO to Billings, MT.
Our show Traveling While Black usually has us in the Pacific Northwest or flying to international destinations, but we realized that many don’t know what middle America is like OR how safe it is for Black travelers. So, we decided it was time for us to expand our show to help those who may be wondering what it’s like to drive and stop in four cities: Kansas City, MO; Denver, CO; Cheyenne, WY; and Billings, MT. For each city we will provide our typical ratings too: Drive Grade, Level of Fun, and Comfortability For Black People! This is our review of our stop in Denver, CO!
The Overview
Denver, also known as the Mile-High City, offers a lot of Black history and culture. To learn more about that Black history, we started our journey within the historic Five Points neighborhood, by taking a self-guided walking tour of the neighborhood!
Five Points: The Harlem of the West
The Five Points neighborhood was bustling with Black-owned businesses ranging from clothing stores to grocery shops and even dry cleaners. A notable landmark within this neighborhood is the historic Denver Fire Station No. 3, a symbol of safety and community for the residents (we got a chance to tour it too!).
Us on the Five Points District Walking Tour.
Jazz also played a pivotal role in shaping Five Points' identity. Thanks to a local musician, George Morrison, the district attracted legendary artists like Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, and Ella Fitzgerald, thus earning its nickname “Harlem of the West.”
Unfortunately, like many historic Black neighborhoods across America, Five Points faced decline due to factors like continued redlining and the construction of a light rail. This led to the area being declared blighted in 2012. Despite these challenges, vibrant Black businesses and motivated individuals are working tirelessly to preserve the neighborhood’s character and heritage. To learn more about the Five Points District head here.
Drive Grade:
Kansas City, MO to Denver, CO
Let’s talk about our road trip experience, or what we call our Drive Grade Rating. Here’s how we broke down the drive from Kansas City, MO to Denver, CO. The drive is typically 9 hours, but ours took a lot longer because we decided to stop at some historic Black history landmarks along the way. The first landmark stop was in Topeka, KS at the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Park. This park and museum is housed at the historic Monroe school building where the landmark cases started. This is a stop you should definitely make! Not only is it history, but Topeka is the capital of Kansas - so there are ample restaurants and gas stations in this city.
Next we stopped at the Buffalo Solider’s Memorial in Junction City, Kansas. This memorial is great if you’re interested in the history of the Buffalo Solider’s and need a food or bathroom pit stop. Junction City is very close to Fort Riley, so you’ll see a big military presence in the city.
Us at the Nicodemus Historical Park
The last Black history stop in Kansas before we stopped into before Denver was in Nicodemus, KS. The Nicodemus, KS National Historical Park commemorates: (from the park website) “Formerly enslaved African Americans left Kentucky at the end of the post-Civil War Reconstruction period to experience freedom in the "Promised Land" of Kansas. Nicodemus represents the involvement of African Americans in the westward expansion and settlement of the Great Plains. It is the oldest and only remaining Black settlement west of the Mississippi River.” This is a wonderful place to visit! It is slightly off of 70, so you will need to go through many small towns before you make it to this park and to get back on I-70. So be sure to get gas in Hays, KS before you stop here. Also be sure not to speed through those small towns on the way to the park and on the way back to I-70.
Now let’s get into the drive grade rating:
Quality of Views: 0/2 points - Unfortunately, the drive through Kansas was flat and boring. Even though that was expected, we can’t give any points for views.
Roadside Amenities: 2/2 points - The abundance of gas stations and fast food options along I-70 makes this drive a lot less stressful. You won’t have to worry about going hungry or without gas.
Route Simplicity: 2/2 points - I-70 provided a straightforward route with minimal traffic and few highway switches (except on our stop to Nicodemus, KS).
Roadside Attractions: 2/2 points - We discovered some incredible stops that we spoke about above. Another attraction we saw was the OZ museum in Wamego, KS! Marlie loves the movie Wizard of Oz, so this was a must do!
Quality Parking Options: 1/2 points - While parking was ample in Kansas City, it was more challenging in Denver aka the cost of parking was steep!
Overall, we rated our drive from Kansas City, MO to Denver, CO a 7 out of 10.
Level of Fun Rating: Denver, CO
The sign at the entrance of the Historic Lincoln Hills
Denver offers a wide variety of activities for all demographics. During our time in Denver, we took a walking tour of the Five Points Neighborhood, had the chance to tour the historic Lincoln Hills Resort (Learn more about Lincoln Hills and Lincoln Hills cares here), and check out two Black owned establishments - LeFrench restaurant and Novel Strand Brewing and Taproom. LeFrench was one of the best restaurants we’ve eaten at in awhile! We even tried escargot for the first time, and to be honest… we liked it! Novel Strand Brewing had a great atmosphere. The beer was great and the people were super friendly. We recommend going to Novel Strand if you’re looking for some quality beer!
Here’s how we evaluated Denver's fun factor:
Quality of Activities: 2/2 points - From exploring the historic Five Points district to enjoying the craft beer scene, Denver has something for everyone. You won’t be bored here!
Demographic Applicability: 2/2 points - The city caters to a diverse audience, offering activities suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Affordability: 1/2 points - Denver is on the more pricier side, especially in comparison to midwestern cities. However, it is more affordable than our home city of Seattle.
Quality of Restaurants: 2/2 points - We had fantastic dining experiences, especially at the Black-owned establishments, Novel Strand Brewing Company and Le French.
Special Events: 2/2 points - Denver hosts numerous events, including a Juneteenth Music Festival and the Five Points Jazz Festival. Plus Denver has 5 major sports team. There’s always a special event happening in this city!
Overall, we rate Denver a 9 out of 10 for Level of Fun.
Comfortability for Black Travelers: Denver, CO
Us in front of the Denver capital building
Comfortability for Black travelers is crucial. Denver’s Black population is only 8%, however we did see and meet a lot of other Black visitors in the city. One of those interactions was with KweenWerk a Black outdoor creator and co-owner of the Inclusive Guide. The Inclusive Guide that helps you find inclusive destinations around the world!
Here’s how we rated Denver for our Comfortability for Black People Rating:
Amount of Other Black People Seen: 1/2 points - Although we saw a good amount of Black people, it was significantly less compared to Kansas City.
Most Recent Black Population Numbers: 1/2 points - As we mentioned before, Black or African American non-Hispanics make up only 8% of Denver's population. A pretty low population amount for a major US city.
Prevalence of Black History: 2/2 points - The rich history of Five Points and landmarks like the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library highlight Denver's contributions to Black history. Plus being known as the Harlem of the West, shows the significance of Black History in the city.
Visibility of Inclusion Signs: 1/2 points - There were fewer explicit signs promoting inclusion compared to other cities we’ve visited. We expected to see more in Denver.
Our Personal Feelings of Comfort: 2/2 points - We felt comfortable and welcomed throughout our visit to Denver, CO. The friendly interactions and diverse establishments made it a great and comfortable experience for us. We would definitely go back!
Overall, we rated Denver an 8 out of 10 for Comfortability for Black People.
Our Final Thoughts on Denver
Denver scored well across all categories, making it a destination worth exploring for anyone. We can’t wait to return and dive deeper into the city’s history and culture. Next up in our TWB Across America Roadtrip Series is Cheyenne, Wyoming – stay tuned to see how it compares to Kansas City and Denver!
Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for updates on our journey and follow us on social media for real-time updates and behind-the-scenes content.
Watch our full YouTube episode on our experience in Denver!
Traveling While Black Across America RoadTrip: Stop #1 - Kansas City, MO
Welcome to the first stop of our Traveling While Black Across America (Volume 1) series! A little background on this series, we decided to hop on the road to take (and document) a roadtrip from Wentzville, MO to Billings, MT.
If you’re new here, our show Traveling While Black usually has us in the Pacific Northwest or flying to international destinations, but we realized that many don’t know what middle America is like OR how safe it is for Black travelers. So, we decided it was time for us to expand our show to help those who may be wondering what it’s like to drive and stop in four cities: Kansas City, MO; Denver, CO; Cheyenne, WY; and Billings, MT. For each city will provide our typical ratings too: Drive Grade, Level of Fun, and Comfortability For Black People!
We started the journey from Anthony’s hometown of Wentzville, MO and here’s our experience!
The Overview:
When thinking of Kansas City you may not think it’s a large city, but in fact, it’s the 36th largest in the United States. It’s also pretty famous within Black culture and American history!
For example, when thinking of Kansas City, BBQ definitely comes into mind. During our visit, we had the chance to sit down with George W. Gates II, COO of the historic Gates BBQ. He proudly proclaims that "Kansas City is the BBQ capital of the world." He’s right, because the city boasts over 128 BBQ restaurants, which is a testament to its rich culinary tradition. BBQ in Kansas City isn’t just food; it's a cultural experience that has evolved from humble beginnings to a celebrated cuisine. We had the chance to try some Gates BBQ, and let us just say, be sure to add one of their locations to your list when you visit Kansas City!
The 18th and Vine District:
We were able to explore the 18th and Vine District while in Kansas City. This district was not only a hub for jazz and BBQ, but also a significant cultural landmark. It began as one of the few areas where Black families could live, work, and build businesses during Kansas City's early development. Today, it stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Black community. This is why the American Jazz Museum and The Negro Leagues museum is housed in this neighborhood.
The American Jazz Museum offers a deep dive into the rich cultural history through interactive exhibits and artifacts. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum preserves and celebrates the rich history of African American baseball, highlighting the incredible impact it had on sports and civil rights. You MUST visit both of these museums if visiting Kansas City.
Drive Grade:
Wentzville, MO to Kansas City, MO
Let’s get into our roadtrip experience or how we call it, our Drive Grade Rating. Here’s how we broke down the Drive Grade from Wentzville, MO to Kansas City, MO.
Quality of Views: 0/2 points - The drive through Missouri did not offer great views. The route was mainly lined with gas stations and billboards. So, we didn't award many points in this category.
Roadside Amenities: 2/2 points - This was great! The abundance of gas stations and fast food options along I-70W made the journey convenient. It was easy to find places to stop for fuel and food, which added points to our score.
Route Simplicity: 2/2 points - Traveling on I-70W was straightforward. The highway provided a smooth, uninterrupted drive with minimal traffic and few highway switches.
Roadside Attractions: 1/2 points - On this route we stopped at two places: America’s National Churchill Museum in Fulton, MO & the Missouri State Capitol. Other than that, there weren't many attractions along the way that made us want to pull off the highway.
Quality Parking Options: 2/2 points - In Kansas City, we found ample parking options, often free. Which was a big positive to Anthony!
Overall, we rated our drive to Kansas City a 7 out of 10.
Level of Fun Rating: Kansas City, MO
Kansas City offers a wide variety of activities for all demographics. Here’s a deeper look at how we evaluated the city's fun factor:
Quality of Activities: 2/2 points - From a vibrant nightlife in the Power and Light District to numerous professional sports teams, Kansas City has something for everyone! The city's rich cultural attractions, like the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and the American Jazz Museum, which we really enjoyed, add to the variety of experiences available.
Demographic Applicability: 2/2 points - The city caters to a diverse audience. Whether you're a family looking for kid-friendly activities, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or a solo traveler in search of adventure, Kansas City has plenty to offer.
Affordability: 2/2 points - The Midwest prices around the city were a welcome experience, since we live in Seattle now. Dining and entertainment options were reasonably priced, making Kansas City an attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers.
Quality of Restaurants: 2/2 points - Kansas City's culinary scene is outstanding. We enjoyed delicious meals at Black-owned establishments like Mesob Ethiopian and Caribbean restaurant and Ruby Jean's Juicery. Of course, the BBQ was a highlight, particularly at Gates BBQ.
Special Events: 2/2 points - The city hosts numerous events throughout the year, adding to its appeal. During our visit, we found a lively atmosphere with plenty of ongoing activities.
Overall, we rate Kansas City a perfect 10 out of 10 for Level of Fun.
Comfortability for Black Travelers: Kansas City, MO
Comfortability for Black travelers is a crucial aspect of our travel experience. Here’s how we rated Kansas City in this category:
Amount of Other Black People Seen: 2/2 points - During our visit, we saw many Black people, contributing to a sense of community and comfort.
Most Recent Black Population Numbers: 2/2 points - According to 2021 statistics, Black or African American non-Hispanics make up the largest minority demographic in the city. It shows there’s diversity in this city.
Prevalence of Black History: 2/2 points - Kansas City's Black history is deeply embedded in its culture, especially in the 18th and Vine District. Museums like the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and the American Jazz Museum highlight the city's significant contributions to Black history.
Visibility of Inclusion Signs: 1/2 point - While the city's Black history is prominent, we didn't notice many explicit signs promoting inclusion. This is an area where the city could improve to make all visitors feel more welcome.
Our Personal Feelings of Comfort: 2/2 points - Throughout our visit, we felt comfortable and welcomed. Interactions with locals were friendly, and establishments like the 21C Museum Hotel (where we stayed) featured diverse and inclusive staff.
Overall, we rated Kansas City a 9 out of 10 for Comfortability for Black People.
Our Final Thoughts on Kansas City
Kansas City was the perfect start to our cross-country journey. We highly recommend visiting Kansas City to experience its unique blend of BBQ, jazz, and Black history.
Stay tuned as we continue our Traveling While Black Across America series, with our next stop in Denver, Colorado!
Don't forget to subscribe to our blog for updates on our journey and follow us on social media for real-time updates and behind-the-scenes content.
Watch our experience in Kansas City!
Traveling While Black: Orcas Island, WA
One of the best things about living in Washington state is having access to some amazing islands. For this experience we took another trip to Orcas Island. Here’s how it felt visiting as a Black traveler.
One of the best things about living in Washington state is having access to some amazing islands. And if you watched our YouTube Episode 145, then you know that the San Juan Islands definitely fit in that category. For this experience, we took another trip to The San Juans Archipelagoes. This time to check out the second island of what we considered to be the main three; Orcas Island.
Orcas island, which was originally inhabited by the Straits Salish peoples, surprisingly got its name not from the majestic animals that inhabited its surrounding waters, but rather from the Mexican Viceroy who financed the exploration of the area in the late 1700’s. Compared to the previous island we visited, San Juan Island, Orcas Island has some noticeable differences.
The terrain. As opposed to San Juan Island, Orcas Island is more mountainous and forested.
The population. While San Juan Island is more populated than Orcas Island, Orcas Island is slightly bigger.
The islands were definitely different in those aspects. However, there would be another difference on Orcas we were told about that wasn’t so visibly seen. At least to us initially….
Prior to our previous trip to San Juan Island, we had heard that the islands overall were “magical”. Which turned out to be true based on our experience on San Juan Island’s Friday Harbor. But prior to this trip we were told that Orcas Island would in fact be where we would find the most magic.
Hearing this really surprised us, because we didn’t think it could get more magical after our experience in Friday Harbor. With our interest peeked, we wondered what could it be that makes people consider Orcas Island to be more magical than the others? So using what we learned from our previous visit to the Islands, we booked our ferry tickets and headed off to find out the answer for ourselves.
Drive Grade
The journey to get from Seattle, WA to Orcas Island according to our GPS would take us around 3 hours and 2 minutes. Which included the hour and half drive to the ferry on Anacortes, WA. Taking into account the hour wait showing up at the recommended pre-departure time, the journey was about 4 hours total for us. Learning from the mistake we made our last visit to the San Juan Islands, we reserved our spot on the ferry weeks in advance making our ferry experience a lot better this time.
Thanks to our preemptive booking, which again can be done up to 90 days in advance, we were able to get a later ferry time. Book your ferry ASAP!
The length of the ferry ride wasn’t bad either. Even with it lasting about an hour and a half, it still went by fast.
So, for our trip to Orcas Island, we give a 5 outta 5 for Drive Grade.
Level of Fun
Once the Ferry landed we were excited to get onto Orcas to find out what was it about the island that makes people claim it to be the most magical of all the San Juan islands. But not before checking into the place where we would be laying our heads for the next couple of nights.
First, it is important to note that on Orcas Island you won’t find many traditional “hotels”. And a lot of visitors to Orcas Island come to camp at the many campsites on the island. For those not wanting to stay in a tent or camp at all; AirBnB’s and bed and breakfast type establishments more so fit the vibe of the island.
Even the historic Orcas Hotel which has been operating since 1904 feels more like a bed and breakfast. For us, we chose to stay at Otters Pond Bed and Breakfast. An adult retreat that offers 5 luxurious suites that are available year-round.
On the East sound side of Orcas Island
Not only are the suites themselves very comfortable, the property also offers relaxing lounging areas both inside and outside with beautiful views of Otters Pond as well as wildlife. Oh yeah they even offer an outdoor hot tub, so you can really chill out while enjoying the view.
As soon as we checked in, we knew that we made the right choice for our stay on the island. On top of the amazing accommodations, we were also able to get a breakdown of the island before starting our search to understand Orcas magic.
For simplicity, Orcas Island can be divided up into two parts: East sound and West sound.
The West sound is where you depart the Ferry. You will find a very small village with a few shops and restaurants.
The East sound you will find the larger village with more shops and restaurants.
Outside of their different vicinities, both East and West sound offered quite a bit. For example, both offered excellent options for food and drink. On the East sound side, we had dinner at two great places: Buck Bay Shellfish Farm and New Leaf Cafe.
On the West sound, we enjoyed a delicious meal at Orcas Hotel Cafe. What’s interesting about this experience, is that the historic hotel where the cafe is located is reported to be haunted. We may have possibly encountered some of the actions of the supernatural resident during our dinner - spooky!
We had some great lunches and dinners on the island. As for Breakfast, we had the luxury of being served a different delicious breakfast every morning. Which lends to another great thing about Otters Pond Bed and Breakfast, in that it is owned and operated by a James Beard recognized chef; Amanda Zimlich.
Other than great food and drink, both the East and West sound offer amazing outdoor options. Those options of course include an abundance of beaches. We must note, that it is on the West sound that you will find the only sandy beach on the island within the Deer Harbor area.
Along with the beaches, Orcas Island offers a ton of camping and hiking options. Like Turtleback mountain on the West sound, and not one but two state parks on the East sound: Obstruction Pass State Park and Moran State Park.
Views from Mt. Constitution
On our trip we decided to check out the much bigger Moran State Park. A big reason why we chose this park over the other was the parks access to the islands highest point, Mt Constitution. We really enjoyed this mountain view experience, because while there are a multitude of multi use trails you can take to the top; you can also chose to simply drive to it. Which is exactly what we did.
If you do choose to drive up, there is a parking lot along with a visitors center that includes some really clean public bathrooms. But of course the real payoff is the views which are enhanced by the stone watch tower. Which also offers some interesting exhibits within.
Even though we loved the shortcut to the payoff, we couldn’t visit Moran State Park without experiencing a real hike. So we found out about an often overlooked hike that offers another spectacular payoff; and even better it was decently easy.
That hike was to Cascade Falls. A moderate trail that takes hikers a quick, but peaceful hike through a beautiful forest. In less than half a mile, you come to a spectacular 45 foot waterfall. Which can be taken in, either at an upper or lower viewpoint. If you happen to be interested in more of a challenge, the trail also connects to more trails that lead to other waterfalls.
It is important to note that the parking around all of the trails within the state parks requires a Discover Pass. But there are plenty of pay stations around if you only need a day pass. Also, if you don’t have a boat or boating accessories there are plenty of places around Orcas Island that offer rentals. And renting doesn’t just stop with boats; visitors can also rent bikes, mopeds, and even cars. Cars may be a great option if you chose to take the fast ferry from Anacortes.
Yes we had a blast during our outdoor experience on Orcas Island, just like our previous experience on San Juan Island. And we can honestly say that we really enjoyed our time.
Still, at the end of it all we had to ponder, what was it that makes Orcas Island more magical than the other islands? And in asking, no one could articulate it for us. Not the locals who joined our table for our meal at Buck Bay Shellfish, not any of the locals at the local Farmers market, not even our host Amanda at Otters Pond.
But when we thought deeper about our experiences it finally hit us; whether we were enjoying a meal at one of the restaurants, driving from place to place on the island, staring at a waterfall in Moran State Park, or even just lounging at Otters Pond Bed and Breakfast; we were always surrounded by nature. To the point we were always engulfed in it. Yes, it was magical.
While we don’t know if we can say Orcas Island offers more or any less magic than San Juan Island; we can say that it is a different type of magic. How we sum it up is that San Juan Friday Harbor provides the type options that take you to experience the magic of the Archipelago, but Orcas Island provides options for the magic to come to you.
Once again we definitely recommend a visit to the San Juan Islands, no matter if you chose the namesake island or Orcas Island.
In regard to this experience on Orcas Island; we give a 5 outta 5 for Level of Fun.
Comfortability for Black People
As for our comfort rating for Orcas Island, even though they don’t boast a Black mayor like Friday Harbor on San Juan Island; we still experienced the same comfortable feeling. Not only was the service at all of the establishments welcoming, the locals we encountered were extremely friendly. At Buck Bay Shellfish two ladies joined our table and engaged us in friendly conversations, as well as tips and recommendations for the island.
The picture taken because we looked cute to an Orcas Island resident.
The friendliness of the locals continued at the Orcas Island Farmers Market, when one lady working her booth called us over to send us a picture she took of us while we were taking a picture of ourselves, simply because she thought we were cute.
On our trip for the couple of days we’re on the island, we did see two other Black visitors and also saw some more around the ferry station both when we were arriving and leaving the island.
In regards to the Black resident population, Orcas Island is less than 1% Black. While on the surface this could cause some reservations, but Orcas Island is still is a perfect example that the current lack of Black residents doesn’t automatically equate to an uncomfortable experience, and also a PERFECT reminder to why we do our show.
We go to these places so we can encourage more of our people, and really more of anyone outside of the majority, to experience these amazing places despite the lack of familiar or diverse faces.
Also, we did notice quite a bit of Pride flags which visibly added to our comfort prior to interacting with the people.
All of these are reasons why for our experience on Orcas Island we give a 5 outta 5 for Comfortability for Black People.
Watch our Orcas Island episode on YouTube!
Last-Minute Getaway: Our Experience at Garza Blanca Resort and Spa in Los Cabos
It was once again that time of year in Seattle when we needed our annual re-up dosage of Vitamin D. In other words, we needed some sun, and we needed it bad. Not only that, we had a huge backlog of work having just completed our TWB Across America road trip (more on that later).
Not surprisingly, a trip to Mexico came to mind as being a perfect getaway option. Specifically, the Los Cabos region, a part of Mexico we had yet to visit. For total transparency, the decision on Mexico wasn’t officially made until re-watching the 1990s classic “City of Angels.” Inspired by Meg Ryan’s character’s unfortunate demise shortly after Nicolas Cage’s character decided to give up eternity to spend with her, our takeaway was… life is too short, so why not go to Mexico (HA!).
With last-minute planning for this “work trip,” we were lucky to find an enthusiastic and hardworking travel agent capable of getting things planned for us within 24 hours… enter Kathy Buckley with Tonic Travels. Kathy provided us with three options of resorts in Cabo San Lucas with the requirements of:
4.5 - 5 stars,
all-inclusive,
(most importantly) A place we could work (free wifi) AND still relax.
Ultimately, we chose the 5-star resort Garza Blanca, located exactly between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.
The Journey To Garza Blanca: The Flight & Airport Arrival
As most residents of Western Washington can attest, the flight to Cabos is a relatively easy one, with multiple airlines providing direct flights into Cabo San Lucas International Airport (SJD). The length of the flight seemed to go by pretty quickly, though it was about 4 hours. Traveling through customs was a breeze, and the lines went by fast.
Waiting for our transportation to Garza Blanca outside of the Los Cabos airport.
The only issue we encountered was on the way to our pre-booked resort transportation. We almost got scammed by someone “helping” us find where our transfer would pick us up. However, once you walk outside, you’ll clearly see numbers that should be listed on your pre-booked reservation.
TAKEAWAY: Continue to exit through the sliding doors and don’t make eye contact with the dozens of solicitors that WILL try to get your attention.
Resort Check-In:
It took around 35 minutes to get from the airport to our resort at Garza Blanca. Upon arrival, like most resorts, we were met with the option of water, champagne, and a hot towel. Of course, the glass of champagne was the first choice for Marlie. We arrived close to check-in time, which is 4:00 PM. What stood out about our arrival was the efficient check-in process.
Not only were we able to get our room and close the loop on final paperwork, but our meeting with the concierge was pretty easy and informative. And what we most loved about our concierge experience was that they did not overly push the presentation up-sale… remember we were here to get work done.
The Room:
The king sized bed during turndown service.
In our very limited research on the property, we read nothing but great things regarding the room accommodations at Garza Blanca. Still, our room surpassed our expectations. Our one-bedroom suite with a garden view was spacious, clean, and just all-around beautiful. The perfect environment for getting work done. Within the room, there were two full bathrooms, a full kitchen, a king-size bed, with a pull-out couch in the living room, a large balcony with an outside eating area and (Anthony’s favorite thing) a hammock. The room also included other great surprise amenities like a washer and dryer and even a bidet (hehe). Our all-inclusive package included the room mini-bar and stocked fridge that was re-stocked every day… it was like living in a dream.
TAKEAWAY: With room service offered 24/7 and Google Chromecast available, it can be hard not to leave the room.
The Restaurants:
Yes, our room was amazing, but the resort still had plenty of other amazing things to offer outside of that; like the restaurants.
Garza Blanca provides four restaurants on-site:
Steakhouse, Bocados
Japanese restaurant, Hiroshi
Mexican restaurant, Blanca Blue
Italian restaurant, Noi
Eating at Garza Blanca’s Italian restaurant, Noi.
For breakfast, guests are offered a buffet-style option at Blanca Blue, although we never went to the buffet… breakfast delivered to our room was too good to pass up. Though we did breakfast in our room, we definitely got out for dinner. The restaurants we tried were the Mexican restaurant Blanca Blue (nights 1 and 4), the Japanese restaurant, Hiroshi (night 2), and the Italian restaurant, Noi (night 3). Unfortunately, we did not have a chance to try the steakhouse Bocados because it booked pretty quickly. For an all-inclusive, we can say that the food was pretty delicious, and each restaurant offers a variety of dishes. If we had to rank our favorites, we would say Blanca Blue followed by Hiroshi. Noi’s food was a bit salty for our taste, but still, its location on the rooftop was definitely a vibe. As for lunch, we enjoyed it every day at the adults-only pool. Which brings us to our next topic of the property; the pools.
TIP: Make your restaurant reservations in advance of your trip so you're guaranteed to experience all the restaurants you want.
The Pools:
Another great thing that stood out to us at Garza Blanca was the many pool options on the property. There are actually eight pools total, but since the resort is family-friendly, we chose to spend a majority of our time at the rooftop adults-only pool… you know, so we can get some “work” done. This pool was pretty dope, an infinity pool that was heated and overlooked the entire property. There was good music and plenty of seating. We will say that the adults-only pool bar is separate from the pool, and the only swim-up bar is within the family-friendly big pool, which was crowded with a few kids during the time of our visit.
TIP: If you want a seat right by the adults-only pool, plan on getting there no later than 11:00 AM, which is an hour after the pool bar opens.
The Bars & Drinks:
Enjoying cocktails at Garza Blanca’s lobby bar
The pools were not the only amenity that had a variety of great options. Garza Blanca also offered a great arrangement of bars on the property. Outside of the swim-up bar previously mentioned, there are three others that we noticed; the rooftop bar, the lobby bar, and the 360 bar located between the Bocado’s (Steakhouse) and Blanca Blue (Mexican) restaurants. Each bar offered both a cocktail and mocktail menu. Having the option between both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks was another thing that we really enjoyed. And no matter what bar we chose, both options were mixed perfectly and tasted great. Full disclosure, we typically don’t indulge in the mocktails while on all-inclusive resorts, but again since this was a “work” trip it made sense. Our two favorite cocktails were the Fresco and Mezcaltini. As for our favorite mocktail, that was the Fresca. The last thing to point out about all of the bars (and property) was the service.
The Service:
Garza Blanca shines when it comes to its staff (the people). We received friendly service and smiles from everyone we encountered. The daily room refresh and turndown service was another perfect service we really enjoyed. We loved that the bartenders and pool attendants remembered our name throughout our stay (we will admit Señor and Señorita Amor isn’t too difficult to remember, ha). Yes, the people were great! One thing we must note is that the dinner service was a bit slow each night, but the beautiful scenery and attentive staff made that not such a big deal.
Black Traveler Comfortability:
With the great treatment from the friendly staff, our comfort as Black travelers was very high. What also contributed to the high comfort was the fact that we noticed a lot of other Black travelers at this resort. We loved that! Everyone around seemed to be enjoying themselves as much as we were.
Final Conclusion:
In front of Garza Blanca’s famous orange tree
Would we return to this resort? Absolutely! During our time at Garza Blanca, we were able to get our much-needed dose of Vitamin D, as well as get a lot of work done, and somehow at the end of it still returned home relaxed and refreshed. Even though this was our first time staying at a resort that wasn’t adults-only, it still felt like a great option for couples to reconnect.
On our next trip to Garza Blanca, we will probably leave the work behind or maybe we’ll just bring along our cameras and show you our experience firsthand via one of our YouTube episodes.
OTHER POINTS OF CONSIDERATION:
Prior to departure, pay attention to the prohibited items in your carry-on bags. Our selfie stick was confiscated.
Beaches in Cabo are beautiful, but most are not swimmable due to the currents. It was red flag days every day during our stay.
Traveling While Black: Hiking at Pinnacle Peak
Welcome back to another blog for our first hiking series of 2024. If you saw our last blogs on our hiking series, we checked out two easy hikes: Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park and Spring Lake/Lake Desire Park.
For the next and final hiking recommendation, we are hiking Pinnacle Peak. But here’s the deal… if you were to search “Pinnacle Peak”, you may be somewhat confused because the search would return three possible options just within the state of Washington alone.
Tatoosh Range
North Cascades
King County
For his hike, we are hiking the Pinnacle Peak in… King County! This Pinnacle Peak is located 25 miles north of Mount Rainier. Ironically the confusion with this Pinnacle Peak could have been avoided if it wasn’t for a flame that use to burn at the top of the original lookout. Because, the name of this summit was originally referred to as Mount Pete, in honor of a Yugoslavian immigrant who settled in in the area in the early 1900s. But throughout the years the name Pete got misconstrued as "Peak", hence the newer name, Mount Peak. Ironic because look we know something about misconstruing names … Okanogan….Vashon….Willamette….
While the name Pinnacle Peak was given due to the fire lookout at the top; we’re just saying if Mount Pete stuck then there would be no need for a third name. Nevertheless, this Mount Peak is forest covered and offers hikers two options in order to reach the payoff.
The two trails offered by Mount Pete, or Mount Peak, or the King County Pinnacle Peak, are The Cal Magnusson trail, and the simply named South Trail. The South Trail sounded like Marlie’s type of trail - a gravel road with a gentle grade that gradually leads up elevation. But because the South Trail is multi use for hikers and bikers, or possibly because Anthony miss-read the research; we amazingly chose to hike the Cal Magnusson Trail, the trail that takes hikers a whole 1000 feet in just one mile through thick forest.
Drive Grade
The drive to get to this hike took a little longer than the other two hikes, being that it was about 1 hour 5 minutes from Seattle. Although the hour may have been due to our GPS taking us around the south bound traffic that we would have been gridlocked in.
The drive didn’t offer many spectacular views and with the length of the drive, it was not that exciting. This trip did have a positive, and one that reminded us of an important tip to mention when hiking… bringing snacks.
This route was not just perfect for snacks, but way more. On the way, you can stop in the South Park neighborhood. We did and grabbed some food at Uncle Eddie’s; and then some coffee from our friends at The Scene coffee; a Black owned coffee shop.
The accessibility to the good food, great coffee, and snack options definitely added to the trip. In regard to parking at the trailhead, there weren’t a lot of spots, but we were able to get lucky. You can also park along the street too. One plus, the parking is free.
As for our Drive Grade Rating, we give a 4 outta 5.
Level of Fun
Prior to embarking on the hike, we were really excited because we heard that the payoff was guaranteed to be the best of the three recommended hikes regardless of the weather. Not exactly knowing what we were getting ourselves into, we ventured into the park. But not long after we got hip to that fact that this particular trail was going to be something different. From the beginning to the end the trail led us uphill.
We hiked, and hiked, and hiked, and hiked... We passed what looked to be variety of skilled hikers. We can say the surroundings were beautiful. While that didn’t make the trek any easier, it did make it bare able. It was also cool to see the steps that formerly supported the lookout. Also the basalt outcroppings formed by the rapid cooling of lava.
Marlie wanted to turn around a couple of times, because she was triggered by one of her pet peeves. Which is when you’re passing people on a trail and they tell you, “You’re almost there” or “You’re halfway there” BUT you still have forever to go.
Based on our experience and “scientific” research, we’ve determined that “You’re halfway there” equates to 45 minutes left and “You’re almost there” equates to 40 minutes of hike left.
Anthony continued to encourage Marlie to finish the hike, which was beneficial because after an hour and 22 minutes, we eventually made it to the payoff at the summit lookout.
Walking up the observation deck definitely offered some great views. We even enjoyed the views from just sitting on the log benches.
The hard work was definitely worth it. Plus we felt really accomplished conquering such a challenging (for us) hike.
Other important points worth mentioning about the trail are:
While the path is dirt, there are concrete steps in places throughout on some of the steepest points.
The Dirt Trail can very easily turn into mud; which was the case in some areas on the day of our hike.
Dogs are welcomed on the trail, but must be on leash.
Overall we really enjoyed our experience at Mount Pete, or Mount Peak, or the King County Pinnacle Peak. And we can definitely recommend you giving it a try. Remember that if you’re looking for a less rigorous hike up the peak, you can take the South trail.
For our experience at Mount Peak via The Cal Magnusson trail we give a 5 outta 5 for Level of Fun.
Comfortability for Black People
Once again these episodes where we are in nature are going to be high on the comfort rating. Big reason why? Come on say it with us…
NATURE LOVES BLACK PEOPLE!
And for this experience, along with the nature once again we encountered some friendly people on the trail. Outside of walking up 1000 feet of elevation, we were really comfortable. And with this being the last episode of this hiking series for the year, we want to remind you to get outside and enjoy the nature. Remember, studies show that being in the outdoors can have tremendous mental health benefits.
While this hiking series is ending the best time of year for hiking is just starting. Hopefully we see you out on the trails this spring, summer, and fall.
For this experience at Mount Peak we give give a 5 outta 5 for Comfortability for Black People.
Watch our experience on YouTube!
Traveling While Black: Hiking Spring Lake/Lake Desire Park
Welcome back to another blog for our first hiking series of 2024. If you saw our last blog and episode, we checked out a relatively easy hike within Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park. But if not, be sure to check it out!
Again for this first series of hiking episodes for this year, we are checking out three different options all recommended from the King County DNRP TikTok page! For the next hike recommendation, we chose to check out a trail around Spring Lake / Lake Desire Park. Another park technically located in Renton, WA, but close to Maple Valley, WA.
Spring Lake / Lake Desire Park, is a beautiful 390-acre forested park that offers three miles of trails, running between the two namesake lakes. Spring Lake/ Lake Desire Park offers trails for hikers and equestrians.
In regard to difficulty, the park offers trails ranging from moderate to hard routes. We decided that we were going to attempt the Echo Peak trail, an easy trail that leads up to 400-ft of elevation gain, and provides great views of one of the lakes and on a clear day, the beautiful Mount Rainer.
Echo Peak Trail sounded like the perfect trail option for us; an easy hike to amazing views. But we would find out that this trail would turn out to be a case of too good to be true.
Drive Grade
To get to Spring Lake / Lake Desire Park it was around a 30 minute drive from Seattle. Being it was also in Renton, it was the same length as our last hiking adventure to Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park. Anytime we head south of the city, there is the opportunity of hitting some busy traffic. We were able to breeze by it on this trip. And oh yeah, the drive time wasn’t the only positive that was similar to last hiking adventure. Free Parking!
Yes, the parking is free, but the lot is not huge. Once again the only real negative was lack of any views on the drive. Still, for a 30 minute drive to get to a great hiking option wasn’t bad.
So for our drive experience, we’ll give a 4 outta 5 for Drive Grade.
Level of Fun
After being pleasantly surprised by the parking situation, we headed into the park. As soon as we entered we came upon what would be the first of many trailhead signs. We had already decided that we would do the Echo Peak Trail. So we headed in the direction we THOUGHT would put us on that trail.
The decision would not be the first we would have to make on our hike. And definitely wouldn’t be the first wrong one. We would come to a couple of forks where we would have to decide a way we thought was right. Sometimes we would diplomatically decided which way to go aka playing rock, paper, scissors. A couple of times because of our choices we had to turn around. On this hike we ended up on multiple trails, and dare we say perhaps even got lost.
The trails run into each other and you can easily lose track of which one your on. Ultimately we ended back where we started, but we never found Echo Peak Trail. However, during our search we still got to take in the peaceful nature and beautiful natural scenery.
In regard to other details about the trail, the path is dirt and could potentially get muddy during raining days. Of course dogs are welcome, but must the pups must be leashed. As for how we would rate our hiking experience at Spring Lake / Lake Desire Park, even though we didn’t find the trail we originally intended to hike, we did hike further than we would have if we just did the one we intended. And what was even better was that we didn’t even realize that being the case because we were enjoying ourselves too much. We had a blast and we can definitely recommend Spring Lake / Lake Desire Park as a great hiking option.
So for our experience at Spring Lake / Lake Desire Park we give a 5 outta 5 for Level of Fun.
Comfortability of Black People
So once again being that our hiking episodes involve us being outside and in nature, the grades for these hiking experiences are more than likely going to be pretty high. As we always say… “Nature Loves Black People!” And we LOVE nature. But also adding to the nature loving, we did get to enjoy a friendly conversation with a local resident who was also enjoying a hike through the park. We also saw other people throughout our hike who all said hi in passing. We had a great experience, and we definitely recommend considering this park for your next hiking trip.
As for our experience at Spring Lake / Lake Desire Park we give a 5 outta 5 for Comfortability for Black People.
Watch the YouTube Episode!
Traveling While Black: Hiking at Cougar Mountain
TWB chose to check out the Cougar Mountain Indian Trail! A trail technically located in Renton, WA but near Bellevue, WA and Issaquah, WA.
It’s that time of year here in the Pacific Northwest, when daylight starts to last a bit longer. For us, that means it’s time for hiking!
While it’s nice that winter hiking is an option here in the Pacific Northwest, it is important to remember that the time of year you are hiking. Always prepare accordingly. This was an important fact that we were reminded of when going on this hike. We didn’t see the weather report for this hiking day and we were caught off guard when it started snowing. We had to leave and comeback to attempt the hike on another day. Don’t be like us!
For the first hike, we chose to check out a trail around Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park. A park technically located in Renton, WA, but near Bellevue, WA and Issaquah, WA.
Pretty dope history fact: the area is actually believed to be part of the route used by the Duwamish tribe and others to go between Coal Creek and May Creek.
We actually hiked close to this area at a park located more south back in YouTube episode 120; when we hiked a trail in Squak Mountain State Park. Cougar Mountain is a lot like Squak Mountain, in that it’s also known for its many hiking and equestrian trails.
The trail we chose was Cougar Mountain Indian Trail.
Drive Grade
The drive to the trail from where we’re at in Seattle was around 30 minutes. The route took us east on I-90, then south on I-405, before jumping onto more residential streets. The drive on the day, or days we went, were all for the most part pretty smooth flowing. Even when we did run into a little bit of traffic we were able to slide through it pretty quickly. That’s pretty good, especially considering that on one of the days it was raining.
While the route didn’t feature any views, the experience does have a positive in that the parking by the trailhead was free. But it was a bit confusing. See the trailhead is within a residential cul-de-sac. And even though the online trail information says that the county owns two vacant lots to ensure access, it was hard to tell where those lots start. So we had to make extra sure to park where we thought was best. Especially when there was signage threatening to tow by parking outside of those designated spots.
You don’t need a Discovery Pass to park at this trail head and that’s true for other trailheads at Cougar Mountain Windland Park. Which is also a plus! To be honest the drive overall was pretty average. But the free parking options and the 30 minute drive, all made up for the lack of views.
So for this experience we’ll give a 4 outta 5 for Drive Grade.
Level of Fun
After figuring out the parking we were ready to tackle our first hike of the year. Cougar Mountain Indian Trail is a somewhat easy out and back trail that is about three miles in length. Like most trails in Cougar Mountain Park, this particular trail accommodates hikers and equestrians. But be aware that it does connect to some trails that are only for hikers. Some of the connecting trails feature some pretty cool payoffs. We heard that the best is Far Country Falls.
Since the size of the falls fluctuates greatly depending on the rainfall. From late winter until early spring is actually one of the best times to visit the falls. According to the online information we found about this trail, it supposedly takes most people about an hour and six minutes to complete. So that was our target to beat.
Although its been awhile since we been hiking, knowing that the trail was deemed easy we were confident that we could beat that. Yes, so confident that we decided that we didn’t need our walking sticks. Even though it was a rocky dirt trail, that decision didn’t hurt us.
Look even though, we were taking it easy for this first hike. Don’t get it twisted, over the years we have done our share of hikes. Enough to pick up some outdoor skills. Like, moss grows facing north. Or stay on path. And something about limestone and other rocks filtering water for drinking if you’re facing dehydration. Need to double check that one, ha!
Walking the trail was like walking through a typical Pacific Northwest forest. Tall trees covered in moss, small streams of water crossing over the path. While this hike didn’t offer a lot of views of anything really spectacular, the living and fallen trees along the path did make for some really picturesque scenery. Yes, we were loving the many opportunities to snap some beautiful pictures on top of the easy hike.
During our walk we didn’t see any wildlife. However, we did learn that the park is home to quite a few. Luckily we didn’t see any of the scary kind, like cougars, on the day of our hike.
After a while, we finally came up to the Restored Meadow project. Which meant that we had officially completed the trail! Yes even though it was easy, we still celebrated! Because it’s good to celebrate ALL wins no matter how big and small. In regard to how long it took us…look beautiful people we can’t lie we we weren’t consistent in accounting for the stops for filming. And at one point we even forgot to stop the stop watch at all… oops!
Yeah, so basically we don’t officially know how long it took us. But we can say we saw people on the trail that started around the time we did and it wasn’t long before they’d pass us on the way back. Other important notes about the trail is it is not ADA accessible; dogs are allowed on this trail, as well as off leash, cell signal is shotty, and finally there are no restrooms nearby.
All in all we enjoyed the hike, and we definitely enjoyed finishing it. But thinking on what to grade Cougar Mountain Indian Trail, we considered the picturesque scenery provided along the path. But also the lack of any spectacular breathtaking views. The meadow restoration project was nice, but we can think of better options for a payoff. We suppose that’s why most people use this trail to connect to Far Country Falls. Still the low difficulty of the trail makes it for a great option for people just getting into hiking.
So for this experience we’ll give a 4 outta 5 for Level of Fun.
Comfortability for Black People
Obviously hiking involves getting outside and into nature. And if you familiar with our show then you are familiar with our saying “NATURE LOVES BLACK PEOPLE”. So that means as long as we don’t encounter a bad experience in a nearby town or on the trail, the grades for these hiking experiences are more than likely going to be pretty high.
We love this because we really want to encourage the continuing of more of our people getting into the outdoors. Because it’s important! Did you know, studies show that walking for 90 minutes in a natural area, as opposed to a high-traffic urban setting can directly improve mental health.
So, if you are looking for more encouragement and information, there are a host of other dope Black creators that are great resources for getting outdoors. Like Black People Outside, not only do they create dope content, but they actually lead guided hikes!
Another great Black outdoor creator is Outdoorsy Diva. Whose travel content and blog is geared for women who love outdoor adventure, unique travel experiences, and the great outdoors.
A final great resource for Black outdoors is Outdoor Afro; a not-for-profit that celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature.
Again these are all great options worth checking out. In regard to our experience on the Cougar Mountain Indian Trail, of course we loved the nature, but also the other people we encountered on the trail we were really friendly. Everyone actually spoke! Yes, friendly greetings combined with the peaceful nature. All definitely made for a refreshing comfortable experience. One that would usually warrant a 5 outta 5.
So, for Cougar Mountain Indian Trail we give a 5 outta 5 for Comfortability for Black People.