Embark to Edison for Art

Get up early, hit the cash machine and drive north to this puny but picturesque rural arts haven. Once there, gird yourself for the two-block walk through town at Tweets Cafe (5800 Cains Ct.; 360.820.9912; tweetscafe.com) where everything is delicious, then walk about a block down the, er, main drag to Shop Curator (14010 Mactaggart Ave.; 360.820.9912), a decidedly funky gallery/treasure trove of natural curiosities, found objects, handmade jewelry and visual art by area artists. Immediately across the street is The Lucky Dumpster (14011 Mactaggart Ave.; 360.766.4049), an enticing shop full of locally made cards, pottery, jewelry, paper crafts and other arts—many made from upcycled materials. Continue on Cains, past the Longhorn Saloon (unless you’re in need of a cold beer) and head for the Smith & Vallee Gallery (5742 Gilkey Ave.; 360.766.6230; smithandvallee.com), a gorgeous 100-year-old schoolhouse showcasing paintings, sculpture and woodworking by area artists, including Todd Horton, who often opens his barn-attic studio across the street for weekend perusers. Before heading home, ease the transition back into urban life by grabbing a baked good (or a dozen—who’s counting?) at the marvelous Breadfarm (5766 Cains Court; 360.766.4065; breadfarm.com).