Are you looking for an out-of-the-ordinary family getaway? Try these fun-filled and interesting destinations in the Pacific Northwest.

Have friends invited you to watch slides of their latest ski trip to Vail? Do neighbors regal you with descriptions of their recent vacation to the French Riviera? Do you watch the commercials about fun-filled cruises, sadly knowing your budget only allows a trip to the grocery store for French bread? Fortunately, living in the Pacific Northwest gives plenty of opportunities for inexpensive, yet fun-filled mini family vacations. When your family needs a break from the everyday routine, try staying at some of these unique accommodations—all within easy driving distance from the Puget Sound region.

Destination: A Windmill

If you can't make it to Holland next week, then head north to the Dutch Village Inn in Lynden. Don't expect typical rectangular guest rooms. Each accommodating and immaculate room is built inside an actual windmill, complete with 72-foot-long moving blades. At night, the blades are lit, providing a revolving light show in front of your window. The Inn serves as anchor for the Dutch Village Mall. You can stroll along the 150-foot indoor canal or let the kids play miniature golf next to antique stores while eating authentic Dutch pastries. Who needs to get on a plane to enjoy Holland?

Dutch Village Inn
655 Front St.
Lynden, WA 98260
360-354-4440
(no website available)

Destination: Quinault Beach Resort and Casino

What? Take the family to a casino? Evidently many Northwest families have discovered the Quinault Resort and Casino as a popular family getaway. On our last visit, I asked the front desk staff if there was a family-related conference taking place because of the large number of children in the lobby, the hallway, the elevator, the restaurant . . . you get the idea. She calmly said, "Oh no, it's very common for us to have children as guests." The resort's casual atmosphere is conducive to family relaxation. Kids enjoy swimming in the pool, checking out board games, and of course, playing on the beach right outside the resort. A mini-refrigerator in each room is ideal for storing snacks. Almost all suites offer ocean views and large-screen television. Naturally, children can't enter the casino area, but they can fly kites, ride bikes, and make gigantic sand castles.

Quinault Beach Resort and Casino
Ocean Shores, WA
800-461-221
www.quinaultbeachresort.com