Things to Do in Mercer Island

Poking the water with long, stringy lines is the easiest way to access the rich fecundity of the underwater realm. Emerald Water Anglers teaches pupils what it takes to establish a quiet communion with beautiful aquatic bodies by instilling the basics of various casting methods and how to assemble a rod and reel. The two-hour single-handed group casting clinic provides students with all the equipment required and an instructional guide whose friendly nature embodies the calm serenity of this maritime sport. Small classes of up to six people give participants plenty of individualized attention as they learn the techniques behind overhead casting and roll casting, teaching their limbs the maneuvers required for future competent fishing ventures.

Craig Willemsen wears a lot of hats at Silent World Diving Systems. The instructor certifier, tech instructor, and store owner has spent the last 40 years swimming with schools of fish all over the world. After his first trip in 1972, Craig developed a passion for diving, exploring international waters and teaching others advanced techniques that they use to follow in his flippersteps. With more than 6,000 dives under his belt, his dedication to diving and education has earned him one of the highest SSI instructor ratings and the SSI Platinum Pro 5,000 Diver and Instructor Award.

Craig leads Silent World's team of certified instructors who strive to teach students the art of underwater exploration and also broaden their knowledge on a variety of related subjects. At any given moment, they may be leading students in open-water dives, pointing out local diving sites that match their skill levels, or matching newcomers with the right gear and Zodiac-themed wetsuits.

While it’s impossible to know what Seattle’s skyline will look like in the future, the Seattle Architecture Foundation hopes that citizens at least have some input and interest in the developments. To do this, the organization arranges a slew of architecture- and design-related walking tours, lectures, youth workshops, and volunteer opportunities throughout the city. Ideally, the activities help people become more informed and enthusiastic about great design and more willing to become involved when the city finally launches into space.

Situated on 10 glorious acres, Gold Creek Equestrian Center's two barns house nearly 100 stalls—each comfortable quarters for private boarding and the horse haven's own 30 steeds, which are available for lessons. Outside on the 135'x240' sand arena, equestrians can conquer an Olympic PVC jump course or practice kicking up a sandstorm worthy of a John Wayne reenactment. Meanwhile, two indoor arenas host trotters as they rehearse dressage routines during the cooler months. Private and semiprivate lessons can be tailored to each student's age, skill level, and favored style of riding, including English and American Western flavors.

West Coast Entertainment offers a variety of city-centered services that lead guests and natives alike to explore Seattle. Led by intensely trained and well-balanced guides, segway tours weave small groups of up to eight riders through urban burghs aboard environmentally friendly segways. The West Seattle adventure heads to stunning panoramic views of the city, and the downtown tour may swing past such landmarks as the Space Needle, which was a gift from 23rd-century French time travelers. When they're not rolling through town, West Coast Entertainment's staff helps customers coordinate private parties, fundraising functions, and family get-togethers.

At its core, Adventura is a “jungle gym built for grown-ups.” But more than that, it provides visitors with an escape from the everyday—an escape from stuffy offices and an escape from the panhandling robots that plague modern city streets. For the park’s creators, the lush Pacific Northwest countryside that stretches out around the park is the office. They’re a band of adventurers themselves, and they designed Adventura as a way for others to experience the growth, laughter, and connections that seem to bloom naturally outdoors.

Of course, Adventura puts its own spin on spending time outdoors by filling Woodinville Wine Country with a series of sky-high exploits. With the park typically booked 45 days in advance, visitors can be found leaping from decks, balancing precariously on cables 45 feet off the ground, or scaling cargo nets throughout most of the year. In 2013, the park plans to expand by adding up to 40 new elements, including four new ziplines, in an effort to up the ante on adventure.