Explore Skagit Valley: A Year-Round Getaway
Charming. Picturesque. These words perfectly capture the atmosphere you’ll find among the towns of Washington’s Skagit Valley, which include La Conner, Mount Vernon, Bow, and Burlington. Nestled between the Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, these towns offer breathtaking views in every direction—snow-capped mountains, lush fields, and waterfront marinas.
Skagit Valley is an ideal destination for a getaway throughout the year. On sunny days, outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, bird watching, and boating abound. Additionally, you can explore driving or biking tours, visit farm and seafood stands, or simply relax by the water. Even on rainy days, Skagit Valley has much to offer, including a major casino, museums, and numerous shops, galleries, and eateries.
1. Fun Things to Do in Skagit Valley
While spring is undoubtedly the most popular season for visiting, Skagit Valley has attractions year-round that appeal to various interests. The fertile landscape and stunning vistas inspire many artists, resulting in a vibrant collection of shops and galleries. Located just an hour north of Seattle, the serene environment offers a peaceful escape from urban life.
La Conner Quilt Museum:
Housed in the historic Gaches Mansion, this museum features quilts from around the globe, as well as works from local artists.
Skagit County Historical Museum:
This museum boasts exhibitions that cover the history of the region’s Native peoples, local industries, and early pioneer life. Don’t miss the museum’s viewing deck for panoramic views of Skagit Valley.
Museum of Northwest Art:
Featuring works by leading Pacific Northwest artists, this La Conner museum includes an impressive assortment of glass art, sculptures, and paintings.
Skagit Valley Casino Resort:
Conveniently located in Bow, this Northwest-style casino resort offers amenities including gambling, live entertainment, dining options, and a hotel.
2. Outdoor Recreation in Skagit Valley
Bird Watching:
The Skagit Valley’s fields, rivers, and marine environments are a paradise for bird watchers. You can spot an array of species, including trumpeter swans, snow geese, owls, and eagles.
- Skagit Eagle Festival
- Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
- Skagit Audubon Society
Sightseeing Cruises & Rafting:
Explore the waters of Skagit Valley to witness whales, wildlife, the San Juan Islands, and the breathtaking beauty of Puget Sound.
- Deception Pass Tours
- Mystic Sea Charters
- Skagit River Raft Trips from Alpine Adventures
- Pacific NW Float Trips
3. Events and Festivals in Skagit Valley
The communities of Skagit Valley host numerous fairs and festivals throughout the year.
Upper Skagit Bald Eagle Festival – educational and bird viewing events (January)
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival – vibrant displays of daffodils, tulips, and irises, plus art shows (April)
Burlington Berry Dairy Days – festivities include fireworks, a parade, street fair, and car show (June)
Skagit Valley Highland Games – featuring traditional Celtic competitions and family activities (July)
Skagit County Fair – showcasing all the classic fair staples like farm animals and carnival rides (August)
4. Shops and Galleries in Skagit Valley
A weekend in Skagit Valley often involves discovering local galleries and boutiques, showcasing the region’s artistic talents.
The Wood Merchant:
Located at 709 S. First Street, La Conner, this shop specializes in fine woodworking, featuring furniture and unique gift items.
Bunnies by the Bay:
At 623 Morris Street, La Conner, you’ll find adorable baby clothes, plush toys, and other gift items suitable for all ages.
Two Moons Gallery & Gifts:
Found at 620 S. First Street, La Conner, this gallery offers handcrafted items that will enhance your home decor.
Roozengarde Gift Shop:
Located at 15867 Beaver Marsh Road, Mount Vernon, this year-round flower and gift shop features an array of garden-themed items.
5. Dining in Skagit Valley
Here are some recommendations for dining in Washington’s Skagit Valley.
Farmhouse Restaurant
13724 LaConner Whitney Rd, Mount Vernon:
This restaurant features homestyle dishes to warm you up, including roast turkey dinners and their signature lemon meringue pie.
Skagit River Brewing Company
404 S. 3rd Street, Mount Vernon:
This hidden gem is known for its house-brewed beer and root beer, along with delicious Northwest pub fare and wood-fired pizzas.
LaConner Seafood & Prime Rib House:
614 S. First St., La Conner:
Dine with beautiful waterfront views, enjoying a lovely dining room atmosphere and banquet facilities.
Nell Thorn Waterfront Bistro & Bar:
116 South First St., La Conner:
Food enthusiasts will appreciate gourmet dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
Seeds Bistro and Bar
623 Morris Street, La Conner:
Another outstanding restaurant focusing on meals prepared with local produce, dairy, chicken, and beef.
6. Hotels & Lodging in Skagit Valley
The Skagit Valley is a popular year-round getaway with various lodging options, from cozy bed and breakfasts to comfortable inns and rentals.
Queen of the Valley Inn:
A charming farmhouse bed and breakfast located in La Conner, it offers a delightful experience with breakfast on the sun porch and cozy common areas.
The Wild Iris:
This twelve-room inn features relaxing Jacuzzi spas, some set on private decks, making it an exceptional choice for a retreat.
Hampton Inn & Suites:
Located in Burlington, this hotel provides modern, spacious accommodations, perfect for unwinding after a day in Skagit Valley.
Best Western Cotton Tree Inn:
Positioned in Mt. Vernon, this chain hotel features an outdoor pool, fitness center, restaurant, and meeting facilities.
Skagit Valley Casino Resort:
A full-service casino resort offering hotel accommodations, entertainment, dining, and access to various activities right off of I-5 in Bow.
La Conner Channel Lodge:
Overlooking the Swinomish Channel, this waterfront lodge is conveniently situated near the shopping district, with most rooms featuring a patio or balcony with water views.
7. How to Get to Skagit Valley – Directions and Transportation
Skagit Valley can be accessed by various means such as driving, ferry, air travel, and motorcoach routes. Amtrak makes scheduled stops in Mount Vernon.
Driving:
Skagit Valley is conveniently located along Interstate 5, approximately 50 miles north of Seattle.
By Ferry:
Visitors traveling from the Olympic Peninsula, the San Juan Islands, or British Columbia can take advantage of ferry services.
Other ferry services:
By Air:
