Bothell makes a nice downtown day trip

Published 11:05 pm Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Downtown Bothell welcomes residents and day-trippers with shops and eateries that are kid-friendly and fun to check out.

It’s a comfortable walk down Main Street in Bothell, going in and out of shops and restaurants with something everyone can enjoy.

An alluring store that entices customers inside is Fireborn, a unique art facility specializing in captivating “lit art.” Slumped glass designs by Carla and Greg Davenport meet steel designs by Elliot Peterson. Light is added for the final magic touch. The result is a piece of enlightening art hard to take your eyes off of and a definite conversation piece for any home.

For a colorful and interactive experience both kids and adults will love, check out Wings of the World. Owners Malcolm Gordon and Joan Ready will introduce you to the variety of parakeets, parrots, canaries, macaws, cockatiels, conures and budgies in their store.

I couldn’t help but admire Gordon’s passion for these beautiful birds as he lifted them out of their cages to show me, then preceded to talk to, pet, snuggle with and rub their bellies. Gordon is well informed on all the birds in his store, so visiting is not only entertaining but also educational.

The Bank of Bargain Marketplace, built in 1946 and originally the Bothell State Bank, features lots of crafts and fun stationery for kids and adults, and at the same time sells fascinating antiques dating back to the 1800s. This shop is chock full of fun items and even includes the original bank vault, which is a sight to see.

For dining pleasure, try Alexa’s Café, serving breakfast all day on Saturday and Sunday and offering a kid’s menu to both order with and color on. My husband and I absolutely loved the Dad’s Platter which included three eggs, three slices of delicious maple bacon, country new potatoes and choice of toast. Now that’s a breakfast both mom and dad can enjoy.

For more information about downtown Bothell and all its shops and restaurants, contact the Bothell Chamber of Commerce at 425-485-4353 or visit www.bothellchamber.com.