Want to see some classic Seattle flying salmon? This is the place to go! Also home to the first Starbucks, the famous gum wall, many fantastic restaurants and stunning bouquets of late summer dahlia's, Pike Place Market is a quintessential Seattle tourist destination.
Woodenville, Washington is home to tons if local wineries if you fancy a day of wine tasing! The most famous is Chateau St. Michelle. During the summer they have a great concert series so if you plan to stay in town and explore definitely check out their lineup!
Hop on a ferry and explore the dazzling San Juan Islands. There are also whale watching tours, salmon fishing, and state parks with beautiful hiking. There are charming towns on some of the Islands to wander through for the day. Friday Harbor, Roche Harbor and Coupeville are some excellent places for a day trip. Fun Fact: Coupeville is where they filmed the 90s classic and one of Marlaina's favorite movies Practical Magic!
North Cascades National Park is a bewitching hidden treasure! It looks like you're in another world. With its soaring mountain peaks and turquoise glacial lakes, the North Cascades is a magical place to pack a picnic and drive through windy mountain roads, go for a hike and envelop yourself in the magnificent nature we have on this planet.
Zach and I went to Baker Lake several times last summer after Pete died so we could take Ellie on some adventures. Its about an hour from La Conner and gorgeous. There are several day use areas within the campgrounds where you can swim and have a picnic. My favorite hike is the Baker Lake trail. It looks like you're walking through a whimsical fairyland or AI. It has a mystical otherworldly beauty that is difficult to describe unless you experience it. If anyone traveling from out of town is planning on staying a couple of extra days and would be interested in visiting Baker Lake, reach out to us and we could possibly plan a group day trip!
We love downtown La Conner! Its a charming old fishing town with eclectic shops and restaurants. If you are traveling from out of state, La Conner Tavern has THE BEST fish and chips in the state in my opinion and tons of local beers on tap. If you have kids be sure to check out the soda fountain and Bunnies By The Bay. The Calico Cupboard is a local favorite breakfast spot boasting the best cinnamon rolls in town!
Known for their immodest ice cream cones, Snowgoose Produce is a Skagit Valley staple. They source products from their own organic farm as well as many other local artisans, farmers and fisherman. There are several other local farms to check out as well. Hedlin Family Farms in La Conner is wonderful as well as Schugh Farms who are known for their berries and pies!
If you're an adrenaline junkie and not petrified of heights, take a walk on the infamous Deception Pass Bridge and peer down and see the treacherous currents. You can also drive across if walking is not your vibe and take in the views of the San Juan Islands. Deception Pass is rich with interesting history that could inspire a series of torrid historical novels, numerous hiking trails and beaches to explore. Bowman Bay is the family favorite hiking/beach hang!