Only nine nautical miles from Seattle and separated from the Olympic Peninsula by the Hood Canal, the Kitsap Peninsula provides a peaceful escape from city traffic. The Great Peninsula, as Kitsap is actually called, has so many arms of land jutting into the Puget Sound that the area has a disproportionate amount of shoreline. Rocky beaches give way to sandy shores, farm land and a forested interior. While Kitsap lacks the soaring mountains characteristic of the Olympic Peninsula interior, it has a different sort of appeal.

Mt. Rainier is 14,110 feet high, an active volcano covered in ice and snow. The glaciers that keep this peak white and cold year round stand in sharp contrast to the old-growth forests and subalpine meadows ringing the mountain's flanks during spring and summer. Three locations in the south provide access to the park, as does an entrance on the northwest side and another in the east. Most visitors to Mt. Rainier are after a quick peek at the peak or some camping and hiking in the wilderness.

Located at the south end of the Puget Sound, Olympia, Washington's state capital, is graced with elegant government buildings and gardens. Stroll across carefully groomed lawns for a closer look at the dome on the Capitol. If you're after some fresh air after exploring the inner workings of the State, mosey out to Capitol Lake Park for fun in the water and a picnic on the grass. Or, walk along the harbor for salt air and regular sea gull sightings.

Located just west of the Puget Sound's bear claw-like protrusion into Washington lands, Tacoma has waterfront views in addition to a fine selection of parks and cultural offerings. Port Defiance Park, north of Tacoma's center, sprawls out on 700 acres of land jutting into the Puget Sound. While the park's proximity to civilization limits natural wildlife spotting, a zoo and aquarium allows visitors to choose between tigers and sharks in a controlled environment. Arts flourish in the Seattle-Tacoma area. Stop in at the Museum of Glass, then, when glassy-eyed, head over to the Tacoma Art Museum or Washington State History Museum for a little variety. Outdoor enthusiasts will be pleased to know that Tacoma is within easy driving distance from both Mt Rainier National Park and Mt St Helens National Volcanic Monument.

Forests drop down to hidden coves, rocky beaches and steep cliffs at Whidbey Island's edges. Connected to the Washington mainland by a bridge spanning spectacular Deception Pass, this island is a popular Puget Sound getaway for visitors up on the ferry from Seattle, or down by road from the north. Despite the fact that the island is so easily accessible, Whidbey Island is a worthwhile stop, crowds or no.