If you enjoy the Old West and the great outdoors, then you may want to consider a family vacation to Winthrop, Washington. We just returned and had a wonderful time there. The entire downtown area looks like a page out of history from the Old West. Step back in time and experience Winthrop´s false front buildings, board walks, and many of the original buildings from the 1890´s. At which time, Winthrop was the center of mining activity in the area. Located along Washington´s North Cascade Loop, Winthrop has many hotels, guest ranches, and resorts to choose from. Many of the resorts offer cabin rentals. Typically, these are cozy, rustic, log cabins that the kids will think are really neat. Many of the cabins come equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, and gas barbecues if you want to minimize dining out.

Your family will enjoy the wide variety of things to see and do in Winthrop. Plan to visit the Shafer Historical Museum. Here, you can tour some of the original cabins and buildings, see genuine mining equipment, and other interesting Old West artifacts. Be sure and play a round of miniature golf and get some ice cream at Sheri´s Sweet Shoppe. Three Fingered Jacks is a great casual restaurant for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and there are many other quaint shops and restaurants to choose from. If outdoor activities are more to your liking, there are riding stables and guest ranches located all around Winthrop. Clear, shallow rivers and mountains all around, make for some beautiful scenery while riding horses or doing other activities.