Since joining Seattle Met in 2011, Allison Williams has overseen the magazine’s travel and outdoor coverage, and has contributed to all sections of the magazine. Allison was raised in Olympia and earned degrees from Duke University and University of Alaska. She began her career in New York City in the newsrooms of Metro newspaper and Time Out New York, then hightailed it back to her native habitat so she could write guidebooks and climb mountains.

Lite Brite

How to See the Northern Lights Near Seattle

The best way to spot the aurora? Get out of town.

08/18/2022 By Allison Williams

Short Stops

Portland's Sports Bra Invents the Women's Sports Bar

This neighborhood joint has a mission—and really good wings.

08/16/2022 By Allison Williams

Quote Unquote

Avery Barnes Brings African Style to Pioneer Square

"This is not just a gallery or retail space, but more of a creative space."

08/15/2022 By Allison Williams

Save Us

Satellite Devices Redefine Safety for Hikers

Pacific Northwesterners love two things: exploring the wilderness and playing with technology. No wonder we like these gizmos.

08/10/2022 By Allison Williams

Cool Dips

10 Hikes to Swimmable Lakes in Western Washington

Step one: Walk in the woods. Step two: Jump in.

08/02/2022 By Allison Williams

summer slopes

Ski Areas Shift to Mountain Bike Parks in Summer

Stevens Pass reopens as a two-wheel destination this week, with Summit at Snoqualmie soon to follow.

07/27/2022 By Allison Williams

Take me out

Value Games Are the Best Way to Watch the Mariners

Dirt cheap is the only way to baseball.

07/25/2022 By Allison Williams

Refuse to Lose

Just How Good Are the Mariners This Year?

Winning streaks, home run sluggers—is this the year it finally comes together?

07/22/2022 By Allison Williams

Short Stops

A Remote Fire Lookout That Can Be Reached by Car

Deep in the forest between three volcanoes, a piece of history sits right off an unpaved road.

07/15/2022 By Allison Williams

Where To?

Introducing the PNWander Travel Newsletter

Sign up for a regular dose of exploration inspiration.

07/13/2022 By Allison Williams

Main Dish

Where to Eat in Walla Walla

You already know what to drink.

07/05/2022 By Allison Williams and Allecia Vermillion

Short Stop

A Tea Party for the Ages in Victoria, BC

The pinkies-up treat at the Fairmont Empress Hotel has to be sipped to be believed.

07/01/2022 By Allison Williams

Island Time

How to Get to Victoria, BC, by Boat or Plane

Journey to a land of afternoon tea and poutine for dinner.

06/28/2022 By Allison Williams

flaked out

Snow Blocks Many Trails as Summer Hiking Season Begins

Do you want to build a snowman...or take a hike?

06/23/2022 By Allison Williams

On Belay

Outdoor Rock Climbing Near Seattle

Break out the ropes and racks to climb Washington’s natural crags. Plus: The dirtbag-turned-storyteller behind climbing's biggest podcast.

06/15/2022 By Allison Williams

Rover Road Trip

Best Northwest Hotels to Visit with Dogs

Some overnights are a little furrier than others.

06/14/2022 By Allison Williams

Growth Potential

The Tiny Mountain Town of Mazama Gets a Little Bigger

Methow Valley residents rallied to raise a new brew pub in their small settlement. But is the quiet corner of the Cascades ready for the big time?

05/27/2022 By Allison Williams

Mini Break

Where to Go for Long Weekends from Seattle

Summer is chock full of extra Mondays and Fridays off work. So where are we going?

05/26/2022 By Allison Williams

home screen

Best Phone Apps for Hiking and Camping

Your smartphone may be your best tool in the outdoors—and not just for the camera.

05/25/2022 By Allison Williams

Map Quest

The Long Road Trip Down Long Beach

Our southwest stretch of sand supplies almost 30 miles for beach walking and kiteflying beside the Pacific, with plenty of historic happenings along the way.

05/23/2022 By Allison Williams