As an Expert in Washington Travel, Here’s What I’m Planning for My Birthday

Happy Aquarius season! While having a birthday so soon after the holidays might have its challenges, it’s always a joy to celebrate with my closest friends and family. Luckily for me, writing for Only In Your State has given me the perfect excuse to explore Washington’s hidden gems and discover unforgettable spots for the perfect birthday adventure. This January, I’m drawing inspiration from our stunning state to plan the ultimate weekend getaway—and I can’t wait to share my dream itinerary with you!

1. Spend some time with animals at Heartwood Haven.

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love animals. Currently, I’m the proud parent of four dogs and the devoted caretaker of three freshwater aquariums. Naturally, no getaway would feel complete without a good creature feature. In the small town of Roy, Heartwood Haven stands out as a leading rescue dedicated to animal protection and rehabilitation in Washington State. Accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), they’ve rescued around 1,400 farm animals, pets, and wildlife since opening their doors in 2017. They’re equally passionate about education, offering field trips and tours to connect the public to the plight of the furry friends they care for. Supporting this incredible organization is the perfect way to kick off my weekend festivities.

2. Make the most of the snow in Leavenworth.

Look, I'm no ski bum. Whatever bliss my friends experience bombing down a black diamond slope has always eluded me. That said, I've been cross-country skiing since I was about four or five years old and took up snowshoeing in my teens. One of the best things about these sports is how budget-friendly they are compared to downhill skiing. Outfitters like REI offer weekend rentals, making it easy to explore the hobby before investing, and you don't have to worry about purchasing lift passes. Some of Washington's most underrated trails are perfect for snow sports, and Nason Ridge Sno-Park at Kahler Glen—just outside the charming town of Leavenworth—is one of my favorites. The 18-mile loop is stunning, though I never aim to finish it. Instead, I pack a picnic and ski until I find the perfect spot, then settle in with a thermos of hot cocoa and a sandwich on an insulated blanket. If your birthday falls in the winter like mine, I can't recommend a mountain escape enough—it's the perfect way to embrace what's best about this season.

3. Sip Washington wines at Silvara Cellars.

When we discuss where to source the country's finest wines, California's sun-soaked Sonoma Valley often steals the spotlight. However, Washington is home to its own world-class vineyards crafting exceptional bottles. Silvara Cellars, nestled among the rolling slopes east of Leavenworth, perfectly showcases this regional brilliance. I first fell in love with the winery through its Woodland Goddess Reserve Red Blend, though with numerous national and international accolades under its belt, it’s impossible to pick a bad bottle. To top it off, their Leavenworth location offers a magical igloo experience. It's hard to imagine a better end to a day of outdoor adventure than sipping fine wines surrounded by the snow-dusted Cascades.

4. Snowshoeing to Colchuck Lake.

There's no shortage of jaw-dropping mountain lakes in Washington. From Foggy Lake and Spade Lake to Lake Valhalla and the shimmering Thornton Lakes, the trails to these alpine treasures naturally draw some of the state's largest crowds. Now, to be fair, there’s something wonderfully wholesome about a busy hike—it’s heartening to see so many people spending their afternoons or weekends trekking uphill to revel in nature’s beauty. That said, if given the choice, I personally prefer quieter routes. For this reason, I now opt to visit Washington's mountain lakes in the winter. While some close seasonally, many of these hikes remain accessible to snowshoers. Iconic spots like Colchuck Lake are equally—if not more—breathtaking when draped in fresh snow. Best of all, you’ll often have these pristine gems all to yourself, making for a truly peaceful escape.

5. Indulge in a meal celebrating the best of Washington's regional ingredients.

I’ve sung the praises of Leavenworth’s Mana Restaurant before, and for good reason. This fine-dining gem offers a seven-course journey celebrating hyperlocal ingredients, all in an ambiance that’s both upscale and inviting. While the menu is technically prix fixe, the staff are incredibly thoughtful when it comes to accommodating preferences and allergies. On my last visit, I admitted—somewhat sheepishly—that seafood isn’t my favorite. Without missing a beat, the kitchen graciously adjusted my courses. Though each dish is paired with a drink, I had also opted out of alcohol for the evening. The handcrafted mocktails I received instead were so exceptional that I might skip the wine, beer, and spirits altogether the next time I dine. At $118 per person, Mana isn’t exactly a Taco Tuesday replacement. But when it comes to my favorite spots for celebrating special occasions, Mana will always hold a place at the very top of my list.

As an expert in Washington travel, I've been lucky to discover some incredible local gems. With this backlog of knowledge, I know exactly what I'd include in my ideal birthday weekend this January, highlighting what's best about this season. In the coming year, I can't wait to find more of what our remarkable state has to offer!