A gentle local host guide, so you don’t have to think or do the research.
The Cozy Cottage on the River, Puyallup waterfront vacation rental, was intentionally designed to support slowing down — physically, mentally, and emotionally. What I’ve come to appreciate since opening it is how much quiet, grounded wellness already exists right here in Puyallup: thoughtful food, movement studios, bodywork, and easy access to nature.
This guide is simply a collection of ideas. Some guests use it closely, others glance once and follow their own rhythm. There’s no right way to move through the weekend.
Arrival · Settling In
Many guests find it helpful to give themselves an hour to land.
- Soft music often sets the tone well here — something low and familiar playing through the soundbar. A soak in the hot tub can help shake off travel, followed by a rinse under the rain shower with the eucalyptus spray provided for your aromatherapeutic enjoyment.
- Dinner on the first night tends to feel best when it’s simple and nourishing. Farm 12 nearby has a great Harvest Salad and Salmon Bowl. If going back out doesn’t appeal, the Farm 12 salad is also available via Valley Boss for easy pickup or delivery.
- Evenings here naturally lend themselves to unplugging. Some guests leave their phone in another room, curl up by the fire with tea and a book, and let the river sounds carry them into a deep night’s sleep. The sound machine is there if nature or white noise is helpful.
Day Two · Body + Nervous System
- Mornings are often nicest without an alarm. Coffee or tea by the river, watching the water and birds, tends to set a gentle pace for the day.
- If you enjoy a short morning practice, 10–15 minutes of stretching, meditation, or sound-based intention-setting can feel grounding. Evolutioner.com is a resource I personally enjoy for quality healing music.
- Breakfast options, depending on mood:
- Something simple at the cottage (smoothie, toast, eggs)
- Juiced, a short walk or drive, for smoothies and avocado toast
- Fika Bakery & Café (Farm 12) for a relaxed coffeehouse atmosphere (10 min drive)
- For movement, some guests enjoy an easy walk on the trails outside Fika/Farm 12, while others prefer a drop-in class at Prana or Body and Soul Pilates, just a few minutes away. Both offer very different kinds of energy — it’s easy to tell which one feels right in the moment.
- Bodywork is available either at the cottage or nearby:
- Rainier Mobile Wellness or Blys Massage offer in-home massage
- Meridian Ave Massage and Unlocking the Body are excellent local spas
- Midday can stay open and unscheduled. Some guests choose an IV hydration session at PNW Hydration, while others drift toward lunch at The Savory & Sweet Café (Wed–Sat, 11–3), a scratch kitchen with soups, salads, crepes, and a few indulgences.
- Afternoons often unfold best without plans — reading, resting, watching a movie, or simply sitting by the river.
- Dinner (see our list of faves) can be in or out, followed by another soak, aromatherapy, or gentle stretching before turning in early.
Day Three · Awe, Curiosity, or Staying Put
If you feel like venturing out, a few experiences guests often enjoy:
- Northwest Trek (reservation required) for a slow wildlife drive viewing free roaming animals and walking paths for enclosed and protected animal experience.
- TopStall Farms for a guided llama experience
- Catffeinated for coffee and time with cats (advance reservations recommended)
- For something quieter:
- A walk along the Puyallup Riverwalk Trail (best enjoyed with company)
- A scenic outing toward Mount Rainier National Park
- Wandering the historic downtown of Sumner, about 10 minutes away
And of course, many guests decide the cottage itself is enough — repeating what felt good the day before, or doing nothing at all.
A Final Thought
Some weekends call for inward restoration. Others lean toward gentle connection — to nature, to animals, to small towns and local places.
This guide is here so you don’t have to think or research. If you’d like help tailoring your stay or choosing experiences based on how you’re feeling, you’re always welcome to reach out.
Warmly,
Lisa