Maple Valley – Introvert-Style

There are plenty of misconceptions about Introverts (literally, “inward-looking”) people out there. If you think being an Introvert is a bad thing, watch this.

While Extroverts may be better at interacting with large groups and enjoying a schedule full of new people and outgoing activities, Introverts tend to excel at knowing themselves and fostering close, long-lasting relationships.

Below are some spots in Maple Valley that welcome (and even encourage) private conversation and reflection:

The Forest

If you live in Maple Valley, you almost live in a forest.

Forests are usually much quieter than non-forests – we highly recommend them.

Here is a map of some forest-filled locations within no more than 10 minutes of driving from Maple Valley.

The Library, Of Course

Libraries are a god-send for Introverts. While some people mock the sound “Shhhh”, Introverts worldwide have long loved that soothing sound of scolding. After all, it will rarely – if ever – be directed at them.

Maple Valley Library, part of the King County Library System, opens at 10am every day but Sunday (when it opens at 1pm). If you’re more of a night owl, you can stay until 9pm Monday through Thursday.

The most remarkable thing about the Library is the floor-to-ceiling windows – as one reviewer puts it: “It’s like reading a treehouse.”

Sign us up.

For more information on Maple Valley Library, visit their KCLS website.

A Boat in the Middle of the Lake (Seriously)

Few things provide the simultaneous senses of freedom and privacy as the distance between yourself and the shore.

For $15 the first hour, and $10 the second hour, you can nearly purchase peace. Grab a kayak for some alone-time, or a rowboat to seclude yourself along with your best friend or sweetheart.

Ristretto’s Coffee and Wine

Live music, so you can listen quietly.

Coffee, so you can hang out and read or work.

Wine, so you can relax in the evening.

And great service. Read more here.

South King County Arboretum Foundation / Lake Wilderness Arboretum

This falls under “The Forest”, we guess, but is worth mentioning on its own. It’s not perfect – the trails are well-traveled and many.

But if you can’t afford a little drive, and need to take a break from the suburban asphalt “jungle”, this is the perfect options.

Learn more about the trails in the Lake Wilderness Arboretum here.

“Parent’s Night Out”

If you have a couple kids, Introvert-friendly times often become few and far-between. For some reason, life doesn’t think Introvert parents should get Introvert kids (or Extrovert parents should get Extrovert kids). We end up facing the challenge of polarized personalities.

And sometimes we need a break.

Parent’s Night Out provides that break. (Or you can visit Take-A-Break Park – yes that is it’s real name, and yes it is specifically designed for parents to allow their kids to play).

We hope this helps Introverts Maple Valley-wide feel at home and encouraged.

Let us know if you have any other great places for quiet and solitude!