Seattle Culture

Antiquers Meet DIY Thrifters in Snohomish

New coffeehouses and vintage-style boutiques breathe new life into downtown Snohomish.

By Sarai Dominguez June 10, 2011

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This article originally appeared in the July 2011 issue of Seattle magazine.

Historic Snohomish (located a 45-minute drive northeast of Seattle) has long been a destination for classic antiques, but a popular new antique mall—plus a slew of vintage-style boutiques and a cozy new coffeehouse—has helped breathe new life into a four-block stretch of First Street downtown, transforming it into a paradise for every lover of old things, from hard-core antiquers to hip DIY thrifters.

SHOP
The new Ruffles & Rust Square (1234 First St.; 360.217.7557; rufflesandrustsquare.com), which opened in March, is flush with vintage finds that are decidedly quirky (coffee-bag pillows, anyone?). Owner Timi Weathers (of the Ruffles & Rust Road Show, a popular vintage market show that makes stops throughout the state) has set up permanent shop in a bright, airy warehouse, inviting 12 other vendors to join her. The sweet selection includes vintage housewares, extravagant French-style mirrors, and hip-again brass birdcages and metal chandeliers. >> Just as the name suggests, Faded Elegance (1116 First St.; 360.586.5333; fadedelegancestyle.blogspot.com), which moved to its charming spot three years ago, is a must-stop with two floors full of gilded items fit for a queen (or non-royal shabby-chic lovers): vintage lamps, large, ornate wall clocks and the cutest little mushroom birdbath you ever did see. >> Seattle’s long-lost Antique Warehouse (1019 First St.; 206.568.7590; antiquewarehouse.us) relocated to Snohomish in 2007, and we’re still a little jealous: Come in to find three stories full of retro paraphernalia and signs, antique furniture (everything from chairs to soda fountains) and even a gas pump dating back to the 1950s. >> A trip to Snohomish wouldn’t be complete without a visit to cheerful Annie’s on First (1122 First St.; 360.568.4242; anniesinsnohomish.blogspot.com). Owned by Annie McDowell, this longtime downtown staple is packed full of fancy frames, charming old books and French-inspired garden sculptures. (Be sure to say hi to the teensy “security dog,” Eddie.)

EAT + DRINK
Two blocks west of Annie’s, colorfully painted Grilla Bites (1020 First St.; 360.568.7333; grillabites.com) serves up good-for-you deli sandwiches, veggie and bison burgers and smoothies on its all-organic menu (vegan options also available). >> A Snohomish classic, Snohomish Pie Company (915 First St., Suite C; 360.568.3589; facebook.com/snohopieco) is hard to pass up. For 15 years, locals have been swearing by the apple berry crumb pie, but the planet-size cinnamon rolls are also swoon-worthy. >> Tucked around the corner, find sweet and savory crêpes at The Crepe Escape and Coffee House (110 Cedar Ave., Suite 101; 360.863.2622; crepeescapesnohomish.com). Open since early this year, the shop features comfy chairs and freshly brewed Zoka coffee—perfect for a midshopping break to refuel.

PLAY
Need some inspiration for decorating? Stop in at The Blackman House Museum (118 Ave. B; 360.568.5235; blackmanhouse.org), a historical antique home located just around the corner from First Street. Peek at the décor while learning about the New England pilgrims who founded Snohomish. >> Along the Snohomish River, across the street from Annie’s, you’ll find picnic spots and gorgeous riverfront views at Kla Ha Ya Park (1117 First St.).


INSIDER TIP:

Join locals in an old-fashioned summertime celebration July 20–24 at the Kla Ha Ya Days Festival (klahayadays.com) along the riverfront, complete with a charming Americana parade, carnival, talent show and salmon barbecue.

 

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