Tillicum Village

Tillicum Village was renowned for offering an immersive and educational experience into the rich Native American heritage of the Pacific Northwest. It specifically highlighted the traditions of the Coast Salish tribes through authentic cultural performances, storytelling, and a traditional alder-wood-fired salmon bake.

The heart of Tillicum Village was its replica longhouse, adorned with art by Northwest Coastal Native tribes. Another signature feature was the traditional alder-wood-fired salmon bake, where whole salmon were cooked on cedar stakes over an open fire. Visitors also experienced cultural performances featuring filmed storytelling and traditional dances.

Yes, even though Tillicum Village is no longer operational, Blake Island State Park remains accessible and offers various trails for hiking. Visitors can explore the island's natural beauty, including its tranquil beaches and forested paths, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities.

Blake Island offers relatively gentle terrain, suitable for leisurely walks and moderate hikes. The island's highest point is approximately 1 meter above sea level, meaning trails generally have minimal elevation changes, making them accessible for a wide range of hikers.

Access to Blake Island is exclusively by boat. Since the Tillicum Excursion ferry service is no longer operational, visitors must arrange for private boat transport to reach the island. There are no public ferry services directly to Blake Island at this time.

Yes, Blake Island State Park is considered very family-friendly. It offers opportunities for camping, hiking, and exploring its natural beauty, providing a relaxing escape and educational experiences for children and adults alike, despite the closure of the cultural performances.

Access to Blake Island is primarily by private boat, which may present initial challenges. Once on the island, the natural terrain, including beaches and forested trails, may not be fully wheelchair accessible. Visitors with mobility concerns should research specific trail conditions or contact Washington State Parks for detailed accessibility information.

Blake Island is particularly popular for outdoor activities during the warmer months, typically from late spring through early autumn. During this period, the weather is generally more favorable for hiking, camping, and exploring the island's natural beauty.

While the cultural performances of Tillicum Village are no longer available, Blake Island remains a state park year-round. Winter visits offer a quieter, more serene experience for hiking and enjoying the natural landscape, though visitors should be prepared for colder, wetter weather conditions.

The Tillicum Excursion, operated by Argosy Cruises until 2021, was a four-hour experience. This included a scenic cruise from Pier 55 in Seattle to Tillicum Village, time on the island for the salmon bake and cultural performance, and the return journey.

Blake Island is a state park accessible only by boat, and there are no commercial restaurants or cafes directly on the island. Visitors should plan to bring their own food and drinks, especially if planning a longer stay or camping.

Tillicum Village ceased operations in 2021. Argosy Cruises, which operated the Tillicum Excursion, ended the program due to revenue losses exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with the need for significant facility repairs and waterfront construction. Blake Island fully reverted to Washington State Parks management after its closure.