Monroe

Located just 30 commuter-miles from Seattle [1] and 50 weekend-miles from downhill skiing at Stevens Pass [2], the town of Monroe is a booming bedroom community of condos, tract houses, and more established residences. A local promotional brochure brags about the “thoughtful planning” that makes Monroe such a great place to live.

But first impressions—especially if you’re coming from the relatively undeveloped Cascades or the pretty town of Snohomish—are a bit different. Highway 2 through Monroe is a sickening chain of strip malls, fast-food joints, and neon signs. Despite this, there is at least one redeeming quality that attracts visitors to Monroe: the state fair.

The small Monroe Historical Society Museum (207 E. Main St., 360/794-7056, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Sat. April–Labor Day) houses local memorabilia and videos from old-timers. Also of interest is the open farmland that surrounds Monroe [3] (at least till the “thoughtful planning” spreads out more) and pleasant backcountry roads that are great for bike riding.

To the south are U-pick farms for strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, and farm stands offering fresh produce. Horse owners especially like the mild climate here, making Monroe a regional center for horse training and breeding.