Looking for an in-town getaway? Try Seattle's Green Lake

Get away without going away. Here are real prices* for a special night for two on the town — with a sleepover.

Your room: Get cozy at the Greenlake Guesthouse, a 1920 lakefront home that's been converted into a B&B with four rooms, all with private bathroom. Rates starting at $134 per night include a gourmet breakfast. Two- to three-night minimum stays required on weekends are waived when vacancies allow; no minimums midweek. 7630 E. Green Lake Drive; 206-729-8700 or www.greenlakeguesthouse.com.

Dinner: Grab a breezy window seat at the BluWater Bistro for people-watching around the lake and a meal composed of Northwest and Mediterranean specialties. Dinner for two: The ceviche bowl with house-made chips and guacamole to share ($12.95), a hand-tossed Greek pizza ($14.95), grilled salmon ($20.95), two glasses of Snoqualmie sauvignon blanc ($6.25 each): $61.35. 7900 E. Green Lake Drive N.; 206-524-3985 or www.bluwaterbistro.com.

Breakfast: Comes with the room, but don't let that stop you from making a morning espresso run for a sidewalk table at Peets Coffee & Tea, 6850 E. Green Lake Drive N.; 206- 267-1440. $3.05 for a small Caffè Mocha.

Before checkout: Go for a dip, or walk, run or bike on the paved path around Green Lake, Seattle's favorite lakefront park. Chances are good you'll run into someone you know as you make your way around the 2.8-mile path. Get here early to see the crew teams sculling across the water and the fishermen settling into their lawn chairs. See www.seattle.gov/Parks.

The damage: $198.40 plus taxes and tips*

Carol Pucci, Seattle Times travel writer

*Prices may vary by date of stay and date booked. These are current prices found on the Web, by phone or in a recent visit.