David's tour is a MUST for any Twin Peaks fan. I've heard of others trying to independently research each location and do it on their own to avoid the *very reasonable* cost of the formal tour. Doing it this way is not only a waste of time, but far less comprehensive (and I'm sure less enjoyable) than what you'll experience when riding with David.
First, not only does he have each location mapped out for optimal efficiency, but he also has a savant-like knowledge of the history behind each as well as the esoterica of the show and its production. Why wouldn't you want to experience this with someone who's as much of a Twin Peak fan as you are?! Additionally, this isn't some casual car ride he's slapped together as some way to make extra cash in his spare time. You can tell he's absolutely devoted not only to the show and its locations, but to your time spent with him as well. This was first evidenced by me when he cued up clips from the series as prelude to each location he'd drive me to. In addition to the clips, he also has Badalamenti's music cue'd up and not coincidentally it times out perfectly with the drive from location to location. How much time and effort must that have taken?
Second, as a person who abhors small talk, my original concern was that I'd be stuck in a car with a guy for x hours forcing polite chit chat about the weather or some such banality. Not the case. David is not only very cool and easy to talk to, but in the gaps between informative dialogue about the show and the locations, he doesn't force conversation. Whatever was spoken about was a topic arrived at organically. THAT's a gift!
Twin Peaks Tour Pro-Tip: David's tour primarily covers the filming locations from Season 1 & 2, Fire Walk With Me and Season 3, all of which can be found within a reasonable driving distance of one another in the Snoqualmie and North Bend areas. It should be noted, however, that there are two ICONIC locations that he doesn't normally cover because they are so far removed from the bulk of the others. The first is the Palmer house in Everett, Washington. The second is a lodge on an island in the northwest which was used for the interiors of The Great Northern Hotel and the exteriors of the Packard house (NOTE: Neither has changed much since 1989. It was like walking into a time capsule!). I paid for an additional day with David as I knew he could not only gain access to these locations better than I could but would more easily be able to navigate the region as well. This is well worth it. If you've planned this trip for yourself, the additional day and expense of viewing these places is something you have to treat yourself to. No Twin Peaks fan's time in the northwest would be complete without seeing them. At the time I toured these spots this was not part of his formal tour but he said he was thinking about offering it in the future. Do yourself a favor and request the extra day. Pay for this. You won't regret it. Particularly when you get to meet Mary Reber aka Alice Tremond and take a picture of THE ceiling fan outside Laura Palmer's bedroom. You will get chills.
In summation, this tour was easily one of the top ten best experiences of my life. Being able to visit the real locations of the show/film/mythology that so dramatically impacted my youth and shaped my career (I work in film because Lynch's show inspired me so much) is something that can not be over-sold. Find the time, set aside the money and do as Agent Cooper advised and treat yourself. You'll look back on the experience fondly.
NOTE: I stayed at the Salish Lodge while I was in Snoqualmie. Would also recommend this to the die hard fans. A great boutique resort with incredible service and surprisingly good food. read more