Gifts from the Pacific Northwest

Send loves ones gifts that share your adventures

By Missy Bouchat on November 29, 2018

The Pacific Northwest (PNW) is a must visit for any traveler. Whether your interests include arts and leisure or outdoor adventure, this state has it all. If the holidays aren't the right time for family to come visit, help them experience the PNW first-hand with these local treasures that make great holiday gifts.

Local art is not difficult to find in Washington state. In fact, Native Americans have inhabited the area for over one thousand years, and the cultures of many of these tribes are recognized and celebrated all over the state. Many cultural centers and museums, as well as individual artists, sell their handmade items including jewelry, artwork, and craft items, unique to their tribes. Globally recognized glass blower Dale Chihuly is also an original local from Tacoma, who famously paved the way for large-scale glass art exhibitions. You can send home original pieces by other local glass artists, as Tacoma is home to the Museum of Glass as well as other glass-blowing studios.

If you're shopping for the sweet tooth in the family, then head to the original Brown and Haley confections factory in downtown Tacoma. Originally established in 1914, Brown and Haley began making Almond Roca in the 1970s. You can also find local chocolates from Seattle Chocolates and Fran's Chocolates, both in downtown Seattle, or purchase from an assortment of beautiful and delicious gifts from their websites. Other local candy options include Aplets and Cotlets from Liberty Orchards in Cashmere and delectable chocolate-covered cherries from Chukar Cherries at Pike Place Market, both available to shop online as well. Washington is famous for fruit, especially cherries, apples, blackberries and huckleberries, and it isn't difficult to find locally sourced jams or goodies you can send home.

For the gourmet in your life, be sure to send smoked salmon, a delicacy and native food staple. The Indian Tribes of the Northwest have admired and celebrated salmon for centuries, celebrating the salmon run every year. Traditionally, the salmon is smoked in chunks rather than fillets, although you can certainly buy it either way. You can select from a variety of Northwest salmon species, smoked in different flavors.

Finally, do not overlook the abundance of local wineries, breweries and distilleries that craft locally sourced adult beverages. Washington vineyards have been evolving since the early 1800s, but nearly 40 percent were planted only in the last decade, making the selection diverse and constantly evolving. Choose from the local variety that includes everything from Merlot to Riesling. For the beer drinkers you'll be happy to hear that the state is home to more than 300 breweries, with most stores supplying a nice section dedicated to local options. If you're traveling locally, grab an assortment and show your loved ones just how thoughtful you are.

By getting out and exploring the area, you will be pleasantly surprised just how easy it is to find a thoughtful gift that is unique to the Pacific Northwest. There are so many cities, towns and neighborhoods that have their own special cultures and histories, happy to share their stories. This year, share your experience through a one-of-a-kind gift from your new home.