This article originally appeared as part of the Featured section in the February 26, 2009 print edition. To see how this article and the others in the section originally looked in print click the thumbnails for larger versions. The article continues below the thumbnails.

When Whitman starts to feel a little claustrophobic, check out one of these activities right under you nose. From cheap eats to new ways to get out and about, Walla Walla has plenty of nooks to explore.

visit Fort Walla Walla Park: With 70 acres,  Fort Walla Walla Park is the town’s largest park. Although there are standard park activities, sand volleyball courts,  picnic tables and horseshoe pits, FWWP is also a wildlife preserve. In addition to the miles of bike and hiking trails,  there is also a BMX and skateboard park, golf and frolf courses, a model airplane field and a model car track. Fort  Walla Walla Museum, also on the grounds, contains many pioneer artifacts. Fees are charged for the Museum and  picnic areas. Call 509.525.7703 for more information about the museum and 509.527.4527 to reserve picnic areas.

the Ming Court for Karaoke: Sing the night away every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. From  9 PM –– 1 AM you and your friends can serenade each other while munching on egg rolls and Chow Mein. Located at  1533 E. Isaacs, The Ming Court is complete with a full bar. Visit the Web cite wallawallachinesefood.com/ for more  details and a full menu.

Ballroom Dance Design: Learn to dance the Cha-Cha, the Foxtrot, the Salsa, the Waltz or the Tango.  Located at 177 Kooskooskie Rd., Ballroom Dance Design is a great way to get into the community and dance the night  away. Visit the Web site ballroomdancedesign.com/lessons.html or call at 509.525.9381.

bird watching: Walla Walla is home to many different species of birds; taking a relaxing afternoon to sport  your favorites is not just for old people. Visit whitman.edu/biology/Birding.html for great ideas and locations.

His Garden: This strictly vegetarian restaurant and bakery is owned by Walla Walla Universty students. It  is nestled at 28 SE 12th St. in nearby College Place, across the street from Andy’s Market. His Garden offers a wide  selection of sandwiches, soups, breads and goodies, many of which are vegan. For a lunch excursion, try riding your  bike to the bakery. Make sure to bring a basket for all the snakes you’ll want to bring home!

the Museum of Unnatural History & the Black Boor Gallery: According to the  Tourism in Walla Walla Web site, this gallery is “Not for the easily offended.” Displaying a variety of three dimensional art in the “surreal and Dadaistic” fashion, The Museum of Unnatural History & The Black Boor Gallery is  located above a drugstore at 4 1/2 W. Main. Call 509.529.9399 for more information.

El Sombrero: For tasty Mexican food and inexpensive drinks, El Sombrero is the place to be. Although the  walk is a little father than The Green, El Sombrero is located on 4 W Oak St. boasts a wonderful Happy Hour selection.

Call 509.522. 4984 for details.