Over the Moon: 10 Romantic Escapes to Take before Baby Arrives

The Lodge at St. Edward State Park

Introducing The Lodge at St. Edward State Park. The newest addition to the area’s luxury hotel family, this property arrives with deep roots and an intriguing history. Originally St. Edward Seminary, it was designed by notable Seattle architect John Graham Sr. (who also designed the Space Needle). The grounds were preserved as St. Edward State Park in 1977 and its latest transformation makes it a great babymoon destination.

Beloved by locals, the park’s entrancing trails, lake views and gorgeous trees make the perfect setting for guests to enjoy while staying at this newly renovated property. The Lodge at St. Edward State Park includes thoughtful amenities such as a hotel car with complimentary transportation within a 10-mile travel distance, lawn games and complimentary mountain bikes for the local trails. Calling all art lovers! The Gallery of Fine Arts will feature rotating local artist showcases with pieces to appreciate and purchase. Book your reservation quickly, before this ingenue gets discovered.

Book Romance at the Lodge, the perfect babymoon pamper package. A bottle of bubbly (or request a non-alcoholic treat) and a wildflower bouquet await you in your room. Spend your day strolling the shores of Lake Washington or relaxing at Vita Nova Spa. Then enjoy a romantic dinner at Cedar + Elm, with Northwest inspired farm-to-table fare, and a nightcap (tea for mom-to-be) at The Tonsorium Bar. The next morning, sleep in and breakfast in bed will be served. Yes please!

14477 Juanita Dr. N.E.
Kenmore, WA
425-470-6500
Online: thelodgeatstedward.com

Salish Lodge & Spa

Follow I-90 east and listen for the sound of rushing water. Salish Lodge & Spa is a tribal-owned retreat perched high above iconic, mesmerizing Snoqualmie Falls. Complimentary valet greets overnight guests, and the delicious signature candle scent and real wood fireplace offer lovely lobby touches. The impressive falls are just a short walk from the hotel, so after check-in, meander to the viewing platform for serious photo ops.

Rooms feature electric fireplaces, a spa-like shower or tub, and the romantic sound of the falls, which bursts in with just the crack of a window. The well-curated babymoon package makes each partner feel special. Rose petals cover the room while cider on ice and chocolate treats wait for toasts and bites. The package also includes a special pregnancy pillow to use during your stay, two 50-minute spa treatments, and a $50 dining credit. The soothing spa is not to be missed. They think of everything—expectant parents receive a special baby gift for when their bundle of joy arrives.

6501 Railroad Ave. S.E.
Snoqualmie, WA 
800-272-5474
Online: salishlodge.com

Tacoma Marriott Downtown

When it comes to a South Sound babymoon getaway, parents-to-be can set up home base at the brand new Marriott Tacoma Downtown. It's the perfect locale from which to relax and explore. The hotel has rooftop pool views of Mt. Rainier to swoon over, and the presidential suite will make everyone feel like a VIP. For the uninitiated, Tacoma is an artistic and culinary mecca, with everything from crave-worthy hot dogs to destination Japanese. 

Nothing says amore like a gondola ride, and Gig Harbor is here to provide that Venezia experience. A labor of love for two guys with a deep respect for Venetian culture, Gig Harbor Gondola has romantic views, legit boats from Italy and surprisingly moving traditional singing. The cruise around tranquil Gig Harbor couldn’t be lovelier, and Greg and John will provide enough colorful local tales to keep the entire ride interesting. Bring your own Martinelli's. Salute!

When you're eating for two, Pierce County is the place to explore some amazing new finds. The Windmill Bistro in Sumner has a glorious outdoor patio for reveling in the summer sun, with farm to table goodness to match. Tiny Wilkeson, the oldest incorporated town in Washington, might have the finest coffee, artisanal sodas and pizza in the entire state. The Carlson Block was recently named the Best Pizza in Washington, and is well worth the trek. 

For a completely different vibe, rent a Suite Dreams yacht in Gig Harbor. Rich, enticing woodwork interiors and decks with Mt. Rainier views make this a huge win for that special trip. Experience deluxe houseboat life in a pristine setting; Sleepless in Seattle DVD not included.

1538 Commerce St.
Tacoma, WA
253-294-9200
Online: marriott.com

The Woodmark Hotel & Still Spa

It’s hard to believe The Woodmark Hotel is an easy bike ride from downtown Kirkland and a quick drive from Seattle—it seems worlds away. The elegant lobby and nearby marina recall the East Coast, with impeccable décor and the gently lulling sounds of water, lapping against the shores of Lake Washington. Staying at The Woodmark Hotel and Still Spa is a wonderful way to connect and replenish before the new little one arrives. The rooms have luxurious beds, water views, and deep baths for after-spa cozy time. For the royal treatment book a suite. The centerpiece fireplace and sweeping views will make a big impression. Bikes are available for leisurely rides into town and an easy pathway by the water provides sunset strolls. The Spa Rejuvenation package includes a $100 credit, so mama-to-be can count on pampering—with a maternity massage or other exquisite treatments.

Food cravings? This is the place. For breakfast and lunch, Carillon Kitchen cooks up delectable eats that guests can enjoy on-site or in the room. Turkey confit club, grilled cheese and tomato basil bisque, and avocado toast on Vollkorn seeded bread all impress. For a healthy, tasty splurge, sample the oh-so-hard-to-find Antipodes water from New Zealand. It’s the Louis Vuitton of water—for real. Local hot spot Beach Café just reopened for waterfront dining. 

1200 Carillon Point
Kirkland, WA
425-822-3700
Online: thewoodmark.com

Lake Crescent Lodge

A stay at Lake Crescent Lodge, inside Olympic National Park, reveals the majesty of the forest with back-in-time national park lodge charm. The tree-lined drive up to the hotel gives way to the indigo and turquoise water of Lake Crescent. This is your stunning view! We recommend booking a Roosevelt Fireplace Cabin, preferably number 38, with wood burning fireplaces and window-paned, panoramic views of the glacier carved water. Dining at Lake Crescent Lodge is a renowned experience. The service is impeccable, the romantic view changes with the light and the food is outstanding. Order the steamed mussels, Pacific Northwest catch of the day or the Vegan Beyond Meatloaf, but be sure to save room for dessert. The lavender crusted, marionberry cobbler is a dream. 

It’s all about creating intimate memories on your babymoon. Book a local photographer to take maternity portraits and couples photos to preserve the moment. The dock in front of the lodge makes a perfect setting, with sunbeams streaming through the clouds onto the glistening water. Take leisurely hikes through the park, rent a canoe or paddleboard or schedule a private, easy kayak tour with Adventures Through Kayaking. Paddle tranquilly past otters and pigeon guillemots, while learning about the local natural and cultural history.

416 Lake Crescent Rd.
Port Angeles, WA
Reservations: 888-896-3818
Online: olympicnationalparks.com

Friday Harbor House

For some couples, a mini-vacation doesn’t necessarily mean getting away from it all. For those expecting parents who want a little city-life with a lot of island-life, head to Friday Harbor House on San Juan Island. A well-situated hop and skip from the town, the hotel terrace overlooks Friday Harbor. Adirondack chairs by firepits are perfect for sunset watching, while the birds-eye view of the famous Washington ferries makes for a relaxing, kinetic tableau. The restaurant at Friday Harbor House has the best view in town, so be sure to check hours and make a dinner reservation when you book your stay. The beet salad and grilled sockeye are flavorful menu items. Request one of their famous cocktails as a mocktail to go with dessert.

The hotel's babymoon package gets the gold star award. Rooms come with electric fireplaces, jacuzzi tubs for two and the softest, fluffiest robes that guests will want to take home. Upon entering the guest room, a bottle of sparkling cider and “midnight munchies” await. Snacks include fruit, Tim’s potato chips, nuts, chocolate and much more. Complimentary sleeping masks on the pillows encourage cat naps after indulging. The package includes two 60-minute massages at Lavendera Day Spa and a $25 gift certificate to Pebble, a boutique where parents can pick out a gift for themselves and their new addition. 

130 W. St.
Friday Harbor, WA
360-378-8455
Online: fridayharborhouse.com

Alderbrook Resort & Spa

“Woodland to Waterfront” is the motto of Alderbrook Resort & Spa. It rings true upon entering the property, with deep, emerald forest to one side and shimmering Hood Canal on the other. This welcoming place makes guests feel immediately part of the family. As a babymoon vacay, couples will feel warm and fuzzy watching so many happy young groups frolic and play. Rent kayaks, boats—or to be extra cute—tandem Seacycles for splashing-around-romance. Or just hold hands and explore the many nature trails readily available right outside the front door.

The rooms are well-appointed but for a truly chill experience book a cottage or courtyard suite. Ready for some me-time? Enjoy a Maternal Bliss massage, Opulent Oxygen Treatment or Seaweed Surrender at the Alderbrook Spa. Prefer a personal spa experience? No problem. Choose the “Check In to Check Out” package with curated spa kit for an in-room DIY facial. Nourishing oils and botanicals will make your skin look radiant. Post treatment the pool is open, so relax in the glass-enclosed, indoor waterfront saltwater pool and hot tub. Afterwards, sip a hot tea or snack at the outdoor patio grill for fresh air and water views.

To complete the experience, get fancy and dine at Alderbrook's destination restaurant, where locally sourced ingredients highlight the menu. Fresh from the shores of Hood Canal, menu offerings entice and delight your taste buds. For a casual date night just a few miles down the road, visit the new Hook & Fork, with a rotating menu of seasonal ingredients and a tempting gift shop.

10 E. Alderbrook Dr.
Union, WA 
360-898 2200
Online: alderbrookresort.com

Posthotel

It’s about to be all about the kiddo, so for a true babymoon escape, try the adults-only Posthotel in Leavenworth. The vibrant, Bavarian-themed town overflows with shopping, dining and a year-round holiday vibe. But Posthotel, set along the river with mountain views, seems miles away from the buzz. More like a chalet than a hotel, Posthotel is a spa oasis specializing in wellness and body restoration through water. Posthotel offers a European breakfast with eggs, freshly baked bread, and of course German sausage. Lunches are light, and dinner provides a chance to explore the charming village. The friendly front desk can help with date night reservations.

All the accommodations are luxurious–some with balconies, fireplaces or hand-carved marble tubs. Take a deep breath and choose your next relaxation experience. Will it be the wellness area replete with nap rooms, saunas and steam rooms, plunge pools, a swim-out saltwater pool and indoor and outdoor spas? Perhaps it will be lounging on the lobby terrace, reading in the library or enjoying a service at the spa. Posthotel takes their treatments seriously, with unique traditions dating back hundreds of years in the Alps. Water, heat and ice are used to achieve numerous health benefits and provide that ultimate aaaaah moment. After enjoying the water and spa options, guests can grab a free bicycle to peruse the area, or snowshoes for if snowflakes arrive. 

309 8th St.
Leavenworth, WA
509-548-7678
Online: posthotelleavenworth.com

Semiahmoo Resort

Privacy please...Drifting away. The sign hanging on the Semiahmoo hotel room door perfectly encapsulates the calm feeling you and your partner will have after checking in. Semiahmoo's expansive views of Boundary Bay, with Canada in the distance, provides the backdrop for a mesmerizing avian show: great blue herons soar, swallows dart and dive and cormorants glide throughout the day. Bicycle rental, beach strolling and s'mores bonfire treats add up to a menu of fun and relaxation. Guestrooms provide the comforts of home, multiple restaurant options have romance on the menu while fun activities await--if time, or spa schedule, permits.

Hungry? From wood-fired pizza to oysters on the half-shell, Semiahmoo offers a variety of resort dining experiences to satisfy any craving, all with stunning waterfront and Peace Arch views. On-site dining options include: Packers Kitchen + Bar: yummy, casual, seaside resort dining; Seaview Café: one-stop shop for grab & go breakfast; and Great Blue Heron Grill: located at the Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club, offering up casual fare for onsite and delivery for cozy nights. Don’t forget to book at The Spa, a wellness center that provides everything you need for some well-deserved quiet time before baby arrives!

9565 Semiahmoo Pkwy.
Blaine, WA 
360-318-2000
Online: semiahmoo.com

North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin

Wanna really get away? North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin can only be reached by seaplane or ferry...or a 23-mile hike. If seclusion and intimacy are your babymoon goals, this is the place. For expecting parents, we recommend arriving on the Lady of the Lake passenger ferries. The Lady II is a stylish, leisurely four-hour ride which starts the trip off with panoramic views and a perfect way to unplug together.

Once you arrive, the 800-square-miles of unspoiled wilderness becomes your playground. Sharp peaks crowned with glaciers, waterfalls and wildlife provide the backdrop for picnics, hikes and romance. Take the Red Bus for a scenic tour to Rainbow Falls or rent a kayak or paddleboard to get out on beautiful Lake Chelan’s peaceful upper estuary. The lodge has wonderful views and nature experiences abound. It's a place where couples can relax, read, play games and just enjoy each other’s company. We recommend staying in a cabin with kitchen, private entrance and private deck. Couples will feel like they are completely alone in this impressive park. The Swissmont rooms with lake views also make a fabulous option if the cabins aren’t available.

Good to know: The only full-service dining option in the area is on property; guests who want variety should BYO.

1 Stehekin Valley Rd.
Stehekin, WA
855-685-4167
Online: lodgeatstehekin.com