Edmonds Beacon - Your Hometown News Source

Editor's note: An earlier version of this story mentioned seven oak trees at the fountain. We were wrong. There are eight. The Beacon regrets the error of the missing tree.

Rick Steves, the world-famous European travel expert, has found himself and his tours grounded by the coronavirus.

But Steves lives in Edmonds, so there are worse places to be while waiting for better days.

One of his particular passions in hanging out – literally – at the city's iconic fountain at Fifth and Main. It may not totally be legal, but Steves likes to wave to passers-by and spread some of his trademark enthusiasm.

It's his favorite intersection in town, and he lovingly calls it "Eight Oaks." You'll have to go down there and count if you want to know why. (Yes, we didn't follow our own advice.)

Steves has an intriguing idea of what he envisions what could bring even more appeal to the area, which he shares in this week's Beacon, while will be on streets and doorsteps Thursday, May 7.

You'll also see a few more pictures later that day on http://www.edmondsbeacon.com.