5 hot spots for a hot summer party

SPONSORED — When the sunshine hits the Pacific Northwest, you know it’s time to party. But planning a unique, memorable get-together can be intimidating. These five venues will delight your friends and family and, combined with a reliable shuttle service, make party planning easy as a summer breeze.

Cheney Stadium

Nothing says summer fun like an afternoon – or entire day – at the ball park. And Cheney Stadium is the perfect way to avoid the MLB crowds and celebrate with local baseball’s most tried-and-true fans. The home of the Tacoma Rainiers, Cheney Stadium is a fun, easy way to gather friends and family for a summertime celebration, complete with hot dogs, nachos, popcorn and, of course, the Pacific Northwest’s best beer, wine and hard lemonades and ciders. With a lineup like that, make sure you’re not sweating the drive home by scheduling your party bus or black car service in advance.

Whirlyball Seattle

Chuck E. Cheese’s might not be your scene, but if you think the whole “eat-drink-play” model should be open to adults, too, WhirlyBall is here with you. This down-to-earth venue is a party in itself, and it’s perfect for anyone young at heart. Located in Edmonds,WhirlyBall is a hybrid of bumper cars, lacrosse and basketball, and more competitive than all three combined. With a selection of food and drinks available – including pizza, sandwiches, hot dogs, domestic and imported beers and wine by the glass – this is the spot for an upbeat corporate party, family reunion, birthday or bachelor/bachelorette party. Reserve some transportation to get everyone home safely, and you’ve got a party.

Lucky Strike

Call it old fashioned, but there’s nothing quite like a night at the bowling alley with good friends. Of course, if it’s been awhile since you’ve hit the lanes, you might assume bowling involves polyester shirts, soggy nachos and foul-smelling rental shoes. Not so at Lucky Strike, where the ambience is upscale and epicurean. Located in Bellevue, Lucky Strike offers luxe leather seating, handcrafted cocktails and chef’s specialties – oh, and bowling. Reserve the premium Luxe Lounge and you’ll get four private lanes, a dedicated bar and a large entertainment screen. That’s called a party.

Bellevue Zip Tour

It’s hard to comprehend the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, but seeing is believing, especially from high above the areas lush green trees. The Bellevue Zip Tour is a way to celebrate nature and any special occasion. This weekend tour lets you soar through 6.5 zip lines and walk across two bridges above beautiful Bellevue. Tours are available Friday, Saturday and Sunday and are open to ages 9 and up. Pro tip: after an adventurous day in nature, make your trip home relaxing with personal shuttle service.

Waterways Cruises

There’s nothing like summer in Seattle, and you can experience the season’s best with Waterways Cruises. Admire the beauty of Seattle’s lakes and the spectacular Puget Sound from a small private yacht or large entertainment charter. With a wealth of options, you can choose a cruise to suit your needs and party size, from wine-tasting or brunch excursions to private receptions complete with gourmet buffets. Keep your party safe and stress-free with coach or black car service to your port in Seattle or Kirkland.

Getting there

When it comes to planning the perfect party, don’t stress the details, like transportation, parking and designated drivers. Relax and let your fellow partygoers do the same with Shuttle Express, which provides coach service for 14-55 passengers, or luxurious black car service (in sedans, SUVs or limos) for parties of 2-6.