Jake and I have had just celebrated our 18th wedding anniversary. Can you believe it? We wanted to do something special, but we’re still hesitant to leave Dylan (our four-year old) behind. We love being a family, and we do a lot of things together. However, sometimes a couple needs time to reconnect and relax.

I’ve heard good things about Tulalip Resort and Casino. We’ve driven past the resort on our way to Seattle, and while shopping at the outlets, but never been. The resort came to mind for our weekend away, since we live near the US border and its close enough for us to quickly return home if needed, but far enough to feel like an actual vacation.

Last year the resort went thru extensive renovations, making it one of the most luxurious hotels in the Pacific Northwest. The style and design pay tribute to the rich history and culture of the Tulalip Tribes. They’ve done a fantastic job of weaving their heritage into every aspect of the resort – from the museum-quality artwork in the rooms and hallways, to the seamless tapestry of stone and wood harmoniously crafted together.

When we got to the resort, we were in awe of the gorgeous totem poles displayed in the foyer. From the superb customer service we received at the concierge desk to the first time we opened the doors to our room we were overwhelmed with a sense of wonder at the exquisiteness and welcoming atmosphere of the hotel. And that was just the beginning.

Once we settled into our room, it was time to join my best friend Josh and his boyfriend Heath who were also enjoying a couple’s getaway. We met them at Destinations Lounge for cocktails and appetizers before moving on to dinner at Blackfish Wild Salmon Grill and Bar for a Tasting Menu paired with wines by Sommelier Tom Thompson. 

Some of the highlights of our meal included the Heritage Salmon  – roasted over Alderwood coals on ironwood sticks ( this is a signature dish that must be tried). Filet Mignon served with roasted potatoes dusted with lavender and fresh thyme and wild boar bacon wrapped asparagus. Smoked Pork Belly and Dungeness Crab Cakes. All these dishes were paired not just with wines, but also ciders and ice wines, all carefully selected by Tom – and he was dead on every time.

After dinner, and feeling fantastic from all that great food and drink, we moved on to the Tulalip Amphitheatre for an exclusive concert by Huey Lewis and the News. The venue was intimate yet big enough to have that stadium feeling. I loved singing my heart out to all their hits, and all of us had a blast reliving the 80’s.

The next day we were ready for some pampering. So after having a delicious breakfast at Cedars Cafe ( I had the Dungeness Crab Eggs Benedict), we headed down to the TSpa for some pampering and relaxation. I chose the Drift Away Body Ritual which is an ancient Ayurvedic therapy used to restore inner calm, balance emotions, and the central nervous system. It begins with a gentle stream of warm herbal oil to the “third eye.” This quiets the mind and soothes the central nervous system. This oil is massaged into the hair and scalp to nourish hair roots. the therapist then worked on specific marma points on my face, hands, and feet. I felt fantastic afterward.

The spa also offers other amenities such as an eucalyptus steam room, a cedar sauna, and grotto showers. Your Tulalip experience is not complete without a visit to the TSpa.

Feeling relaxed and pampered, we joined Josh and Heath at the pool for one last bit of fun before heading back to Vancouver.

 Tulalip Resort and Casino is the only AAA Four Diamond resort in Western Washington making it the premier destination in the NorthWest. It’s located roughly 1.5 hours away from BC. If you’re looking for a place to relax, and unwind in comfort and luxury; look no further than Tulalip.

Check out Josh’s video of our experience:

Disclaimer: we were guests of Tulalip Resort and Casino. My review is based on my experience of the amenities and services.