La Conner

La Conner is a small town of 900 residents built on the banks of the Swinomish Channel, which leads to the Salish Sea and gives La Conner much of its color and atmosphere. Walk down the new boardwalk along the channel to take in the distinct seaside ambiance that comes with watching fishing boats and pleasure crafts navigate their way toward the world-famous San Juan Islands. Crowning the channel is Rainbow Bridge, the Golden Gate of La Conner.

With its historic buildings and a colorful downtown assortment of channel-front restaurants, inns, galleries, museums and boutiques, La Conner is a prime destination for those who appreciate a stroll. Soak up the saltwater scents and sounds as seabirds sweep overhead, or enjoy a drink out by the channel. Things just seem to move a little slower in a village where there isn’t a speed limit over 25 mph, and there are no stoplights or chain stores to be found. Be sure to take a tour on John Wayne’s first yacht, the Norwester!

La Conner also is a good home base for short drives to many scenic locations in Skagit Valley and the ferries to the San Juan Islands. The scenery in and around La Conner is as spectacular as a painting and naturally home to many artists. La Conner is a fun and picturesque destination any time of year, but perhaps the most colorful time to visit is when the acres and acres of daffodils, tulips, irises and lilies are on display in the spring during the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival and the La Conner Daffodil Festival.